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.

Wildermyth is an exemplary achievement of how to integrate story and gameplay, each enhancing the other and backed by an attractive, storybook art style and stirring soundtrack. I hope to god there are more campaigns coming from the developers in the future because though there’s quite a few in there already, I don’t think I’ll be satiated on Wildermyth for a long time. After all, you never really want the best stories to end.

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.

Returnal is undoubtedly one of Housemarque’s best games and is a triumph for the PlayStation 5. The premise is interesting right off the bat, and the way the game feeds narrative breadcrumbs throughout the game only made me want to continue on. With the tight gameplay that the studio is known for, along with an intriguing story and blockbuster presentation, Housemarque hits all the right spots. Returnal sits as one of PlayStation’s most unique exclusives.

Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights is that rare example of a game that melds classic game design with modern narrative sensibilities. It's at once a slice of platforming, exploration and combat that'll feel familiar to all, while also tacking mature themes with every beat. It's a treat to play, a sight to behold, and well worth your time.

Humanity is a creative puzzler that adds meaningfully to the inspirations it takes from. Though it can slow to a halt in unsatisfying ways and there's a bit of a grind, it feels so honest and unabashedly sincere in what it wants to be.

To be honest, I was taken off guard by how much fun I've had with Chivalry 2 so far. It scratches a very specific itch, and while I probably won't be signing on every night for the rest of the year, I have found myself loading the game up to play a few matches and hone my skills with the war club. The combat is the highlight for sure, but Chivalry 2's unique brand of slapstick and gore elevates it from being a straightforward medieval simulation game. By focusing on nailing the moment-to-moment fighting, it allows for player experimentation and roleplaying, rewarding those who want to have fun above those who take themselves too seriously.

Mario and Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a worthy sequel to the first game with tonnes of meaningful changes and challenges. Whilst it loses steam a little the more you get on, it is still an enchanting title.

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.

There are significant performance issues, but the exciting story, improved combat, and satisfying platforming mean Star Wars Jedi Survivor is a great second adventure for Cal and his eclectic crew.

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.

If you’ve never played Warframe and are looking for an opportunity to jump in, then the PS5 version provides an excellent opportunity to do just that. It’s beautiful, complex, and offers a free-to-play business model that offers content in spades without prompting you for your bank details on a regular basis.

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.

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.

It's a must-play, the perfect next step for existing FM fanatics, and the ideal place to start if you've never dipped your toe in the deep end of management simulations. You'll be able to get started easily and stop playing after just one more game. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to lose 6-1 to Liverpool in a failed attempt to implement a Gegenpress at Reading FC.

Death’s Door is definitely good. The problems it has are not dealbreakers and the places it excels - namely gameplay and atmosphere - more than suffice for a robust experience. Sure, it is short, but it’s also no longer than it needs to be, a lesson that a lot of games still need to learn. Enjoy it across a weekend or a week at most, and try not to burst a blood vessel on some of the later bosses.

After years of always feeling like he's never quite reached his potential, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is the sort of series-defining triumph worthy of Nintendo's flagship blob. Kirby finally has his Super Mario Galaxy, his Sonic Mania, his Star Fox 64. And I for one, am delighted by that.

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.

So far, Shin Megami Tensei 5 is shaping up to be a fine addition to Atlus’ juggernaut series. 5’s unashamedly old school, packs a significant strategic challenge that’ll please veteran fans and right now, I'm having a great time with it. It won’t be to everyone’s tastes and combat’s trial-and-error nature might prove off-putting to some, but if you can look past that, you’ll find a highly engaging RPG worth exploring. While I've yet to reach the end, what I've seen so far is extremely promising and currently, I'm leaning towards a strong recommendation. [Review in Progress]

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.

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy perfectly balances having a brand new narrative surrounding the misfit team of heroes whilst maintaining their classic characteristics from the Marvel universe. However, I was left wanting more in terms of combat and I still want to play as Groot. Overall, it’s a great game for new and old Marvel fans alike that breathes new life into the now-recognisable characters. Hopefully, Edios-Montréal and Square Enix will consider doing a second game, as there’s so much more of the Galaxy to explore.

For new players of 1v1 fighting games, this is the one to pick. With a command input system that’s slightly easier to grasp than many of its contemporaries and a brilliant visual style, Guilty Gear Strive is a solid first foray into the genre. You’ll still need patience though. If you’re desperate to get good, this game will allow you to, but if you’re looking for a super casual experience, Strive still falls into the same pitfalls as other games of its type.

Finding the Flowzone is another great addition to OlliOlli World. The new wind mechanic fits perfectly and the increased focus on exploration makes the most of the beautiful levels.

Resident Evil Village is an essential horror experience that shows off what Capcom is capable of when it doesn’t compromise its vision in any way. The developer uses subgenres like puzzle pieces, clicking them into place on a grid to reveal the bigger picture: a survival horror collage, realised with remarkable production values and a deep love for its extensive roots. Resident Evil Village will be held high by Lady Dimitrescu and her peers for years to come, to rest head and shoulders above its genre rivals.

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.

Life is Strange: True Colors has an intriguing mystery and strong cast of characters. The implementation of the protagonist’s superpower is also the most creative than it has ever been. While the fundamental choice-based narrative structure is largely the same, the game feels fresh with unique new ideas and presentation. Fans of the series and newcomers will definitely enjoy this.

While the game is definitely hopeful and joyful overall, parting is such sweet sorrow, and you’ll have to do it time and time again as you play through the story. It’s a tough thing to balance, and yet Spiritfarer does so masterfully. It’s the kind of game that’s going to enrapture people, and already has too. It’s never too late to change, and it’s also never too late to jump into such a wonderful indie game.

Retro Bowl does a fantastic job with what it's trying to do.