Screamer is an amazing game for those yearning for a classic arcade racer with an anime-inspired coat of paint that includes high production values and very deep mechanics that will be hard, yet satisfying to master. A puzzling lack of a proper tutorial, a lackluster narrative despite strong character designs, and uneven track selection bog down the experience a smidge.

Bungie’s Marathon reboot successfully transforms a sci-fi classic into a tense, visually stunning extraction shooter. While a steep learning curve and punishing seasonal resets may alienate some, the satisfying gunplay, unique Runner Shell abilities, and addictive loop of high-stake runs make it a rewarding experience for those who brave the dangers of Tau Ceti IV.

Capcom nailed it with the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection in every aspect. Presentation-wise, it is the best compilation featuring the Blue Bomber they've ever released, adding plenty of quality-of-life changes that I'd love to see them retroactively implement in previous titles. In terms of gameplay, while Battle Network still outshines the Star Force spin-offs in many ways, each game continuously builds upon the previous one to much success (for the most part), making the highly underrated journey of Geo Stelar from a secluded, directionless kid dealing with grief and loneliness into a fully-fledged anime protagonist that would die for his friends a blast to rediscover.

The Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition is the definitive version of the 2023 hit, adding 4K clarity and the social-heavy Bellabel Park DLC. Featuring new mini-games, Rosalina as a playable character, and family-friendly additions like Assist Mode, it’s a must-buy for newcomers and social players, despite minor visual upgrades and familiar progression hurdles.

Unsurprisingly, Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is the best way to experience a JRPG classic. If you're not enthralled by the story, the game can feel like a bit of a drag, but even then, it's got a strong hook with its deep RPG mechanics and an ace up its sleeve that is mech combat and exploration, making the journey absolutely worthwhile.

Ultimately, Boiling Point is a masterclass in atmosphere that successfully pushes Ready or Not into its most immersive and chaotic territory yet. While the three new missions are some of the most visually and mechanically impressive levels to date, the lingering performance jitters on PS5 and the relatively slim offering of new playable content leave a slight shadow over an otherwise solid expansion.

My experience with Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is an odd one. I love the vast majority of the gameplay it offers, but having played a clearly inferior version on Nintendo Switch 2 really soured me on its otherwise incredible visual presentation. The story and its characters are better than you'd expect if you've played or even glanced at previous Stories games, but it's not the sort of tale you'll be reminiscing about once you put the game down.

Pokopia is a 2026 Game of the Year contender that masterfully blends the creative freedom of Minecraft with the cozy charm of Animal Crossing. By trading traditional battling for an addictive loop of habitat restoration and blueprint-based building, it offers a deeply rewarding new way to collect Pokémon.

Ultimately, Resident Evil Requiem is a confident, near-perfect blend of horror and action that Capcom had long dreamt of executing. It stands tall when compared to some of the series' best entries, and while it falls a little short in a few areas and has a somewhat inconsistent pacing with unnecessary padding, it delivers the scares, the gameplay, and a surprisingly compelling story that will be sure to surprise long-time veterans of the series.

Ride 6 is an engaging racing sim with a steep learning curve and incredibly aggressive AI that might sour the experience for some players, but will satisfy bike enthusiasts.

Reanimal is worth it if you're looking for a bite-sized horror experience that's best shared with a friend. The story is gripping, and while it leads to a perhaps not too satisfying conclusion, the journey is more than enjoyable, particularly with a friend.

Despite its 'bite-sized' diorama aesthetic and fragmented episodic structure, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is a masterclass in JRPG fundamentals. While the main narrative takes its time to find its footing, the game triumphs through its gorgeous visuals, a sweeping orchestral score, and modern quality-of-life features that respect the player's time. It is a charming, customisable, and deeply endearing adventure that proves even in the shadow of the Final Fantasy giants, Dragon Quest remains a premier franchise that demands your attention.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins on the Nintendo Switch 2 is a fantastic way of experiencing the grand return of the Dynasty Warriors saga without any compromise. It's action-packed, highly addictive, and exceptionally well even in handheld mode.

Despite its shortcomings, Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a fantastic time for beat 'em up fans and Marvel enthusiasts alike. Arcade adds a bit of replayability, but the dull stages and lack of charm hurt its longevity.

Metroid Prime 4 Beyond plays it far too safe for a game with almost two decades of anticipation behind it. A beautiful-looking game and a run through of Metroid's greatest hits just isn’t quite enough for the hungry fan base that is here to devour everything on offer, and leaves you wanting more.

A surprisingly short yet decent visual novel adventure inspired by the titles that came before it. Detective Instinct: Farewell, My Beloved won’t win over loyal fans of existing visual novel entries like Ace Attorney, but it's solid enough for players who just want to enjoy a good ol’ mystery story. Just don’t come in expecting mind-blowing twists.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is a must-play canon entry that finally completes the Tears of the Kingdom saga. Moving beyond the "what if" story of its predecessor, this Switch 2 title uses its fun, combo-focused Warriors game style to deliver crucial Zelda lore, detailing Zelda's descent into the past. With excellent combat features like Zonai artifact integration and formidable new characters like Mineru, it’s an essential purchase for any fan of Breath of the Wild.

Dispatch’s first two episodes are a strong start to AdHoc’s vibrant episodic series. It may not reach the heights of Telltale’s classic titles yet, but it’s slowly shaping up to be a strong superhero adventure with a lot of heart and soul packed into its characters. With 6 more episodes left, I can’t wait for it to break my heart.

Dying Light: The Beast is a joy to play as a newcomer to the series. If you've been on the fence about the franchise, it serves as a fantastic entry point offering a decently sized map and an addictive gameplay loop that will see you loot, craft, and dismember zombies left and right.

Battlefield 6 marks a triumphant return for the franchise, delivering an experience that not only honors the roots of the FPS genre but also pushes it forward in meaningful ways. With its immersive combat, stunning maps, satisfying gameplay, and a healthy balance between authenticity and fun, it feels like the fresh start fans have been waiting for. Despite a few minor bugs and an underwhelming Campaign, it stands as a content-rich shooter that caters to a wide range of playstyles. More than just a great game, Battlefield 6 feels like a much-needed course correction for the genre, and a clear message to its competitors: the Multiplayer bar has just been raised.

A step in the right direction, EA FC 26 on Nintendo Switch 2 still boasts some annoying grievances, but it’s still worth the purchase if you value on-the-go gaming.

An amazing learning tool and an even better game, Shujinkou is an ambitious JRPG that's well worth your time, given what's already an incredible year for independent games.

King of Meat is a serviceable co-op dungeon crawler that's best played with friends. Combined with a generous monetization model and plenty of replay value for $29.99, it shows a lot of potential for growth. However, entering a saturated multiplayer market, the game's greatest risk is failing to attract a consistent player base. Its unique aesthetic and player-made dungeons are its best hope for avoiding the worst-case scenario of being quickly abandoned.

After years of struggling to get into the series, Borderlands 4 finally hooked me. The fresh world of Kairos, a mostly new cast, and refined gameplay make exploration and combat genuinely fun. Side quests, collectibles, and boss battles are rewarding, and the story sneaks up on you when you least expect it. A soft reboot that works for both newcomers and longtime fans.

Polished to perfection, Hades 2 is an absolute triumph that feels uniquely distinct from its predecessor, serving as a gracious evolution of the formula with dozens and dozens of hours worth of incredibly engaging content. An easy GOTY contender.

Silent Hill f is a gorgeous game, made even better by the abject terrors that surround it. Konami and Neobards take bold risks in exploring the series’ future without the Maine town and push the franchise into new territory. Despite a third act that drags with filler combat sequences, Silent Hill f remains a true Silent Hill entry at its core. It carries all the elements that define the series, from its relevant subject matter to disturbing imagery and the usual ever-encroaching fog. There has never been a better time to be a Silent Hill fan.

Destiny: Rising implements fresh ideas that I wish Bungie would steal for its own game, but it gets bogged down due to the nature of typical gacha mechanics.

Hollow Knight: Silksong is a fantastic sequel well worth the seven-year wait. It’s bigger, bolder, and far more challenging than anyone could hope. While its steep learning curve may put off newcomers, longtime fans will appreciate how it maintains its solid metroidvania roots while inching closer and closer to a 2D Soulslike. With over 30+ hours of content for just $20, the depth on offer is nothing short of remarkable.

Re-creating a masterpiece is no easy feat, but with Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Konami has delivered a near-flawless remake of one of gaming's greatest titles. This stunning recreation, built in Unreal Engine 5, retains the iconic story, superb voice acting, and memorable soundtrack of the 2004 classic while modernizing the graphics and controls. By staying true to the original's vision and adding new accessibility features, this remake is the definitive way for both veterans and newcomers to experience the genius of Metal Gear Solid 3.

Mafia: The Old Country marks a definitive return to the series' roots, prioritizing a powerful, linear narrative over open-world freedom. Set in early 1900s Sicily, this prequel tells the gripping story of Enzo, a young man who joins the mafia for a chance at a better life. Despite some technical blemishes, its meticulously crafted world and focus on character make it a standout title and a refreshing change of pace in the crime genre.

Despite its age, OFF is a veteran game that can still hit a home run. The simple visuals and obtuse puzzles might alienate some, but its fun turn-based combat and deep themes can win over RPG fans as long as they don’t mind writing down clues or possible solutions on a piece of paper.

Monument Valley 3’s brevity does not diminish how much the series has evolved over the years. Its intricate level designs, paired with a spellbinding soundtrack, continue to captivate its niche playerbase and anyone who enjoys puzzlers. For $20, you can experience how UsTwo has mastered the art of perspective, shapes, and sound, delivering one of gaming’s most beautiful and memorable puzzle adventures.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 delivers an incredibly fun gaming experience, with massive graphic improvements, responsive controls, splendid gameplay, and great new characters. While the soundtrack leaves a bit to be desired, and some changes to Career mode are questionable, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 gameplay formula remains unbeatable, and there is no doubt this is the best skating game on the market.

Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV brings the ultimate party experience to the new console, enhancing the already content-rich base game with innovative Switch 2 features like microphone and camera integration. While the core game's visuals show their age, the "Jamboree TV" expansion shines, offering fresh minigames, new modes like Frenzy to shorten playtimes, and robust multiplayer options for endless fun with friends and family.

While not entirely revolutionary, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a standout Soulslike that truly captures the essence of the genre with impressive depth and originality. While its steep difficulty and vague quest structure may intimidate newcomers, it still serves as a strong entry point for non-Souls fans craving for a challenge. Leenzee’s mastery of the formula, combined with rich dark fantasy lore and varied builds, makes it a compelling addition to the overcrowded genre, capable of making even veteran Souls players break a sweat.

Donkey Kong Bananza delivers a triumphant return for the ape, offering an open-world, destructive 3D platforming adventure on the Nintendo Switch 2. As a spiritual successor to DK64, it blends nostalgic collectathon mechanics with innovative terrain destruction and new animal transformations, making it a must-buy system seller for the new console.

Ready or Not is more than just a game; it's a harrowing yet deeply satisfying journey into the unforgiving world of tactical law enforcement. Its meticulous detail, varied missions, and high replayability ensure that the "one more mission" feeling persists long after you've completed the main objectives. For anyone seeking a challenging, immersive, and genuinely impactful tactical shooter, Ready or Not stands as a resounding success on consoles.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom gets a much-needed upgrade on the Nintendo Switch 2, transforming a good game into a truly great one. With buttery-smooth performance, enhanced visuals, and clever new quality-of-life features like in-game navigation and build sharing, this is undoubtedly the definitive way to experience Hyrule's latest adventure. If you haven't played it yet or are looking for a true showcase for your new console, the Switch 2 Edition makes Tears of the Kingdom shine.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is a therapeutic and immersive sequel that elevates its predecessor’s strengths while doubling down on Kojima’s signature weirdness. With stunning environments, refined traversal, and deeper combat, it offers a meditative experience unlike any other. Despite its awkward pacing and overcrowded cast, the game’s themes of grief, healing, and human connection shine through. It won’t win over everyone, but for those it reaches, it’s an unforgettable journey that transcends its interactive medium. Keep on keeping on.

Few games will ever meet the high expectations Breath of the Wild has set. The Switch 2 version is the best way to play an unforgettable title with better visuals and some neat new features.

If you are looking for the best Nintendo game at launch for Switch 2, look no further, but for fans of 8, you may need to wait for Mario Kart World to make the podium.

In the end, Blades of Fire is an intriguing blend of old-school charm and modern design, like a game forged out of time. Its deep combat and weapon forging shine, even as its 3D Metroidvania structure occasionally falters. Backtracking and vague direction can frustrate, but the game’s heart and ambition stand out, especially with plenty of secrets to uncover in its sprawling dark fantasy world.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape 2 closes Don’t Nod’s branching narrative with a powerful, emotional finale. Though pacing stumbles and some moments lack clarity, its themes of grief, rage, and trauma come together in a quietly compelling way. Patient players will find the slow burn worth it.

While it misses the mark in its single-player offerings and the online experience is still not up to competitors' standards, City of the Wolves is one of the most mechanically deep and fun fighting games to come out in recent years.

Besides some dated boss battles, Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remaster shows that the original game is still leagues above some of the best that Sonic and Mario have to offer. Many will disagree, but that is just conditioned bias. Croc is a nostalgic blast of absolutely epic proportions.

Level Devil is a funny trial-and-error platformer that subverts your expectations of the genre in hilarious and creative ways.

Ubisoft has finally struck the perfect balance between the series’ roots and modern advancements. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a masterclass in stealth-action storytelling and, without question, one of the finest entries in the franchise.

Split Fiction is a heartfelt cooperative adventure that celebrates friendship and teamwork with consistently engaging mechanics that never overstay their welcome. Despite minor flaws, its impressive level design and spectacular final sequence make it a standout experience best played with a friend. Hazelight Studios has once again pushed the boundaries of the co-op genre—leaving us eager to see what they’ll create next.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a phenomenal narrative adventure from DON'T NOD. It expertly blends supernatural elements with a deeply personal coming-of-age story.

With its deep storytelling, living world, and brutal but satisfying gameplay, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has set an early benchmark for RPGs in 2025—and for me, it’s already a strong Game of the Year contender.

For just $25, Nintendo World Championship is an exhilarating new way to play a handful of classic games, but it does fall far behind the brilliance of Nintendo’s previous NES compilations. In its online component, it’s thrilling, but it’s not a must-have for anyone except the biggest fans of Nintendo’s history.

If you’re along for the somewhat clunky ride, Dungeons of Hinterberg is a surprisingly thoughtful, unique, and incredibly stunning RPG that more than justifies its asking price - especially for Game Pass subscribers.

Brimming with style and boasting slick combat, Zenless Zone Zero’s few stumbles are easy to look past. While it’s much smaller than the massive open world of Genshin Impact or the galaxy-spanning tales of Honkai, it's all the better for it.

Brimming with style and boasting slick combat, Zenless Zone Zero’s few stumbles are easy to look past. While it’s much smaller than the massive open world of Genshin Impact or the galaxy-spanning tales of Honkai, it's all the better for it.

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a stellar redux of an already great game, improving on everything that held the original game back. With a remixed story, better character moments, and more boss battles, Vengeance has never looked so good.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a timeless RPG that older and newer fans should definitely check out. To this day, it’s still one of the best Mario RPGs available and is easily the best in Nintendo’s Paper Mario series. If fans want more quality Paper Mario games for the next Nintendo system, definitely pick this up.

Ninja Theory hits its apex with Hellblade 2, combining decades of cinematic experience with a thought-provoking action drama that you’d never expect to see as a console exclusive.

Endless Ocean Luminous is a relaxing deep dive into something beautiful, though admittedly niche. This is a simple, yet, elegant experience that not everyone will appreciate, but those who do are in for something unforgettable.

Princess Peach: Showdown is a delightful experience that shows how far you can get with simple, yet varied gameplay mechanics, fun level design, and colorful visuals.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is the ultimate version of Capcom’s fantasy adventure, offering unparalleled, visceral combat against stunning and imposing mythical creatures and thoroughly rewarding exploration you need to experience.

Berserk Boy is a wonderful throwback to the GBA and Genesis era, with gorgeous pixel visuals and lightning-fast gameplay. There’s nothing ourightly original about this 2D platformer, but that shouldn’t deter anyone looking for a quality throwback.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions as it retells its unforgettable story in brand-new ways. Square Enix has done an amazing job retooling the game from one millennium to another, making yet another bombastic RPG that die-hard fans and newcomers alike will undoubtedly fall in love with.

Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League delivers a solid looter shooter experience wrapped up in an actually hilarious narrative, with incredible performances from the cast of misfits. While live-service elements and repetitive missions muddy the experience, Suicide Squad is solid fun that, even after 30+ hours, I’m still jumping back into every night.

Persona 3 Reload is a fabulous remake, with some of the best graphics and presentation we’ve seen for the franchise. The gameplay is just as addictive as ever, with the improved combat system continuing to complement the various student activities. It is a shame that this game is missing content from FES and Portable, but this is still a meaty JRPG that everyone should check out.

Tekken 8 is everything the fanbase has been waiting for and more. With an upgrade in visuals and mechanics and a host of game modes at your disposal, you'll struggle to run out of people to punch in the face (virtually, of course).

Bizarre business practices and pacing issues aside, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth delivers a thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable experience for old-time and new Ichiban fans alike.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a fabulous addition to an over-saturated Metroidvania genre, bringing fresh mechanics, engaging combat, and entertaining characters back to the series. It’s a throwback to the glory days while still ringing in a new era.

Even if the combat is a little overbearing, Moss: Book II is a wonderful puzzle platformer. In VR, the world Polyarc has created is stunning and exploring it as one of the cutest characters ever is a joy.

Asgard’s Wrath 2 is hands-down the most impressive adventure available on Quest hardware. As the start of a new generation of Meta Quest headsets, Sanzaru Games’ melting pot of Norse and Egyptian mythology is a must-play for anyone who is a fan of VR gaming.

A rinse-and-repeat of other Ubisoft titles, but still undeniably enjoyable thanks to gorgeous visuals and engaging story-telling.

Although lacking innovation, the Super Mario RPG remake is a great way to relive a classic, with little incentive for old-time fans but plenty to love for newcomers.

Persona 5 Tactica is a great tactical RPG that uses the series’ signature battle mechanics to perfection. While the story has pacing issues and isn’t friendly for newcomers, this spin-off still succeeds thanks to an addictive battle system and simple customization options. You may have seen this coming.

A short-but-sweet bridge between Yakuza: Like a Dragon and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Like a Dragon Gaiden packs a lot of punch into a small package. Returning to the smash-mouth style fans love about the series, there's plenty of additional content to keep you occupied beyond the game's story.

Although the addition of new and heavily-requested features earn Football Manager 2024 the title of the best sports simulation game out there, hardcore fans of the series may find the game to be light on meaningful new content.

WarioWare: Move It is another great installment in the WarioWare series and the Wii-style motion controls are a lot of fun. Just make sure you have friends to play this with.

RoboCop: Rogue City is the biggest surprise of the year, and one of the best shooters I've played in a long time. Fans of the franchise will delight in the story and world-building, all of which are completely loyal to the 1987 original.

An expertly crafted narrative and two fascinating main characters make for a lovingly crafted sequel that is well and truly worth the 13-year wait.

Ghostrunner 2 is a very solid sequel that’ll appeal to its target niche but might require some research if you haven’t played the first one. Nonetheless, if you’re a hardcore gamer and like your chances as a futuristic ninja, you can’t go wrong with Jack’s blade in hand.

While it doesn't break the mould like its predecessors have, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is the perfect refinement of 2D platforming, and one of the most polished and engrossing games you'll play all year.

Milestone’s follow-up to 2021’s Hot Wheels Unleashed is a worthy successor, but the lack of the first game’s DLC cars is an uncomfortable sore spot.

By overhauling the first game's already spectacular exploration and Arkham-like combat, as well as creating the series’ best story yet, Insomniac has made Spider-Man 2 the pinnacle of open-world action games.

Wargroove 2 is a challenging love letter to strategy RPGs that have inspired decades of gaming. Brilliant aesthetics, strong sound direction, and easy to grasp but difficult to master strategic gameplay makes Wargroove 2 a game worth coming back to.

With its dreamlike visuals, great writing, and addictive gameplay, El Paso, Elsewhere it's an action-packed odyssey by way of David Lynch. The compelling narrative, mature themes, and engaging combat make it a standout title that should not be missed.

The Crew: Motorfest is by far and away the best Crew game yet. Yes, the Forza Horizon comparisons are hard to ignore, but Ubisoft has done a great job of ensuring Motorfest stands tall on its own with a gorgeous world, varied catalogue of events, and general sense of fun.

Playing Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty expansion in 2023 is by-and-large a wonderful experience. It genuinely feels like CDPR has managed to zero-in on a lot of what the base game did well, as well as finding ways to polish up some of the aspects of it that didn’t quite live up to their potential.

Mortal Kombat 1 is, from a newcomer's perspective, a perfect entry to the series. It's packed with gorgeous visuals and battles to enjoy, and I already can't wait to get back to the action.

Chaotic good fun with surprising depth and variety, Party Animals only falls short with its progression system. Look no further for a game that will have everyone on the sofa yelling, laughing, and swearing all at once.

Neowiz took something well-known and really made it their own with stunning results. Lies of P is a game you can easily get lost in - provided you don't lose your cool.

As a huge fan of the franchise, Texas Chain Saw Massacre absolutely nails the tone and atmosphere - and is a damn fun asymmetrical multiplayer game to boot.

Despite some repetitive combat mechanics that can start to feel stale during its final act, Sea of Stars manages to be an extremely wholesome and gorgeous retro RPG that is bound to keep you smiling all throughout its 30-hour campaign.

If you can overlook a messy story and some awkward dialogue, Immortals of Aveum’s magic based action is a lot of fun. If you’re looking for a first-person shooter that’s a bit different, it’s the perfect pick-up.

A solid take on the Metroidvania genre, Blasphemous 2 stands apart by managing to create a highly atmospheric mechanically demanding experience that will satisfy the needs of those looking for a good challenge.

The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood is a game that feels distinctly and unapologetically human in the best way possible. Despite some teething issues, its charming characters and enthralling branching narrative make it an excellent follow-up to The Red Strings Club.

With interconnected stories, brilliant writing, fascinating characters, and a living, breathing world full of choices and consequences, Baldur's Gate 3 sets the standard for today's RPGs. You owe it to yourself to experience it.

Despite the ho-hum design of its action sequences, The Expanse is a solid return to form for Telltale’s adventures. Those looking for an emotional narrative with branching choices and a unique protagonist, will definitely find something to chew on.

Pikmin 4 is a blast, and a game I never expected to be quite as intensely engrossing as it is. From stunning visuals to hugely endearing gameplay, it's a fresh return for the series.

With strong characters, a captivating narrative and the best combat in the franchise, Final Fantasy 16 is a wonderful continuation of a series that has only gotten better with time.

F1 23 is a major step forward from its predecessor. The handling overhaul combined with new modes make this entry the best F1 game there's been in years.