Mir UmarHassan’s heartbreaking words are so eloquently expressed in The Indifferent Wonder Of An Edible Place, and I applaud Studio Oleomingus for their outstanding achievement in ludonarrative harmony. While this experience may be lost on those seeking a typical video game and only looking skin deep into its subject matter, The Indifferent Wonder Of An Edible Place urges players to do their research on the tragic events that inspired the game, begging them not to turn a blind eye to these tragedies. This game may not excite just anyone, but its message is for everyone; The Indifferent Wonder Of An Edible Place’s only cost is 15 minutes of your time.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Synthetik: Ultimate. The gameplay kept drawing me in again and again, the customization options kept me playing, and the difficulty, while brutal, was adjustable and made the game feel more rewarding overall. I really think there’s a little something for everybody in this game with the insane customization options. If you’re looking for something difficult that you can pick up and play whenever, definitely give Synthetik: Ultimate a shot. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

It’s been a long time coming, but Oxenfree II: Lost Signals has landed with the sense of mystery and intrigue that made the original game such a hit. The use of walkie-talkies throughout is a great source of communication, and the chemistry between Riley and Jacob brings in a sense of homeliness that’s comforting, even when the paranormal forces encroach upon you, spiralling you into their otherworldly insanity. Like the first game, it’s short and you may find yourself getting lost at times, but this is a stunningly haunting sequel that deserves your attention.

By focusing on providing a familiar blend of strategy and impeccable combat, Omega Force has delivered an experience that feels like it has the interests of the fans at its core. Where Omega Force goes from here with both the mainline entries and subsequent Empires games remains to be seen, but for now, fans can at least enjoy this return to form.

For fans of the various properties here, Super Robot Wars Y is a no-brainer. Even as someone unfamiliar with a lot of these properties, it was still cool to see the few characters I did know show up and interact with each other. I can only imagine how cool that would be if I knew the rest of this crew. Still, after playing it, I’m curious to check out a few more of these series because so many of these characters are likable and grabbed my attention. Even beyond the characters, there’s a ton of quality strategy RPG goodness here for anyone who enjoys the genre. Super Robot Wars Y may not break any new ground there, but it’s well executed and will keep you busy for a very long time.

Dungeons of Dreadrock is a bite-sized game that I’m sure would work perfectly as a bit of entertainment while waiting for a bus or train on its native mobile platform. However, it’s also great on the PC version as something to gently work out your brain while enjoying the fun narrative and very vibrant pixel-art graphics. This innovative puzzler combines clever yet accessible puzzles with a dash of humour to create a very enjoyable experience. Instead of just putting square pegs into round holes, you genuinely have to think outside the box, and finding the solution is always surprising and entertaining. Dreadrock is a dungeon well worth delving into.

There’s still a ton of things to like about Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. Insomniac wisely kept the formula that worked so well in place and expanded it, removing a lot of what didn’t work and filling it in with new side content to leave players with plenty to do. There are few open-world games that are anywhere near as engaging, in large part because so few of them can capture the genuine joy of simply moving through the world in the way these games do. That so much of the game’s content has been broken down into its best parts makes it all the more frustrating, though, when the game continues to make a few major mistakes it’s been making since the very first entry. Still, any fans of the first two games will have a blast returning to this world in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.

Even though a new coat of paint can’t cover every imperfection (and creates a couple new ugly streaks in the process), Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy is still a serviceable update for three absolute classics. With the quality of life improvements and visual upgrades, it’s still a fine way to enjoy three amazing games beloved by so many.

Cuisineer is absolutely a case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. The dungeon crawling is simplistic yet enjoyable, the management elements are a touch too simplistic, and the sidequests are a touch repetitive. Yet, it all comes together to provide an experience that’s absolutely full to the brim with charm, and, most importantly, one where you always feel like you’re making progress. It doesn’t matter whether you’re stocking your cupboards with ingredients, selling meals and raking in the cash, upgrading your furniture in order to allow more patrons to feast, or hunting down that next bubble tea upgrade – Cuisineer always carries this sense of forward progression that so many cozy games tend to miss on. Could you possibly go and find games that do each of these individual elements better elsewhere? Sure, you absolutely could, but it all comes together in Cusineer to provide a consistently rewarding experience that cozy gamer fans everywhere should be checking out this winter.

Offering fast and furious combat, with a well-balanced character switching mechanic that helps it stand out, players should make sure Young Souls doesn’t slip under the radar for a second time. Goblins may be rising up, but I’m confident anyone who likes a good beat ‘em up will have a great job putting them back down.

Overall, Remnant: From The Ashes is a perfect entry point for those who are wanting to take their first steps in dabbling in the soulslike genre. Gunfire Games took me by surprise with this one. I was skeptical going in and doubted the third-person shooter mechanics would blend so seamlessly with the genre. Remnant 2 is due to be released later this year, and frankly, I can’t wait.

While light in the storytelling department, there’s enough here to keep fans happy and more than enough stylish demon slaying to keep this series engaging.

Primal Planet may not be the best Metroidvania ever made, but it features an incredibly cool world and satisfying gameplay. It doesn’t hurt that it offers some genuinely beautiful pixel art on top of that. It’s not an absolute must-play, but fans of the genre digging through the loads of solid but uninspired games being made these days will find that Primal Planet rises above most of the pack.

G-Darius HD is a classic shmup, and it arrives on Nintendo Switch in excellent form. While the updates are minimal, it feels true to perhaps the best game in the Darius series. If you’re looking for more than that, you won’t find it here, but fans who know what they’re buying will find a game that holds up, even after all these years.

Gal*Gun Returns is exactly what it should be. It’s a new way for some fans to re-experience the original Gal*Gun with updated visuals, and, for us over here in the West, the chance to finally experience Gal*Gun for the first time. If you’re looking for something that’s going to top Gal*Gun 2, then you’re going to be disappointed. If you can appreciate it for the faithful recreation that it is, however, I can guarantee that you’ll have an absolute blast.

Impostor Factory offers yet another tear-jerking, emotional roller coaster with murder mystery flair. The very definition of bittersweet, Impostor Factory’s emotional climax will only make sense to those familiar with the series, so if this is your first foray into the franchise, please grab To The Moon and Finding Paradise first before diving into this sentimental adventure. Where To the Moon sought fantasy from reality and Finding Paradise sought reality from fantasy, Impostor Factory blends them together in a beautifully unexpected way, reminding us to live life while we have it. If you want a wonderfully well-written story with fully fleshed out characters and thoughtfully choreographed scenes that feel charmingly cinematic, please play Impostor Factory (after To The Moon and Finding Paradise, of course!).

The true yardstick by which an exercise game should be measured is whether or not it was effective in getting players off the couch and into physical activity; I think it’s safe to say that Knockout Home Fitness clears the mark. Its short but intense sessions are appealing to those who, like me, struggle to commit to cardio; after only 15 minutes each day, you really do feel like you’ve gotten in a good workout. While I do wish it better instructed players on form and stretching, its rhythm-based mechanics make martial arts-based exercise fun and, dare I say, addicting. If you’re ready to jumpstart your fitness journey but don’t know where to begin, Knockout Home Fitness will absolutely get you going on the right track.

What initially sold me on INMOST was the notion that it was inspired by the considerably more light-hearted To The Moon; while I wasn’t expecting such a tragic tale about pain and suffering, the developers definitively recaptured what made their muse great. Realistic depth of characters, discussion of topics oft overlooked yet extremely relatable, and a compelling narrative made for a captivating journey that will stick with me for a long time. INMOST will likely fall on my top 10 list of games released in 2020, and, as long as you have a controller and don’t mind the pricetag for a five hour experience, I’m confident you’ll feel similarly.

It’s pretty criminal how much I haven’t been able to discuss in this review; Bugsnax is an absolute treat of a game that should please anyone who fondly remembers Ape Escape, Pokemon Snap, or Viva Pinata. I haven’t been this glued to a game for a long time, feeling that sustained, high level of enjoyment from start to finish. So chart a course for Snaktooth Island today and discover its Bugsnax — you won’t be disappointed.

The first episode of The Expanse: A Telltale Series captures what’s great about both The Expanseand Telltale games. That’s the sort of synergy behind the studios’ best games of old, and it leaves me excited that their return could end up as one of their stronger efforts. Despite some concerns about the more action-oriented gameplay late in this episode, I’m certainly excited to see where things go next.

Road 96 started off a bit rocky for me but quickly became one of the best games I’ve played all year. It’s absolutely on my top 10 games list for 2021, and, given enough time with it, I’m sure it’ll be yours as well. The Switch is a fine home for this politically-charged narrative, and if you have a desire to overthrow corrupt systems or just cross the border for a better life, chances are you’ll feel the same way too. If you want to get lost in a dystopian world, then do everything in your power to leave it, hitchhike your way to Road 96.

No Place for Bravery is another stellar soulslike for genre fans to add to their library on the Switch. By taking the best elements from Sekiro and translating those into a fast-paced, isometric ARPG with deep world-building and compelling narrative hooks, No Place for Bravery does more than enough to provide a title that stands out amidst a sea of samey competition.

Labyrinth City: Pierre the Maze Detective is a wholesome, whimsical stroll through a lively and beautiful world of mazes. Its relaxed gameplay might not appeal to everyone, but it’s so charming that it’s difficult not to recommend it. As a final observation, this game made me smile so much that I had to briefly ponder my legendarily sardonic nature. There’s something to be said for an experience that creates such happiness.

Spiritfarer has the body of a seafaring exploration game, the mind of a management sim, and the soul of an emotional journey depicting love, loss, and grief. With gorgeous visuals and a soundtrack to match, Spiritfarer is pleasing to the senses while providing a core loop that’s easy to get lost in. If you like crafting and crying, take a voyage with Spiritfarer, with fair warning to the completionists that this journey may cause more suffering than intended. For smooth sailing, be sure to choose the Switch version of Spiritfarer over anything with achievements enabled. Regardless of the conduit, you should absolutely play this cozy management sim about dying — just be sure to keep the tissues nearby.

It’s been a long time since I played Chicken Wiggle, and perhaps I’ve become a more discerning gamer over the years. Because even though I was impressed by the amount of content available here and appreciate many of the new features, ultimately I gave the original game a more favorable score. This isn’t to say Hatch Tales: A Heroic Hookshot Adventure isn’t worth your time. Overall, I feel it’s more challenging than Chicken Wiggle and the amount of content is bolstered by the Level Editor. If you’re looking for something cute and enjoyable, you can’t go wrong with this.

Cris Tales is a lot of fun, and a really solid title overall. It’s great to see that smaller indie studios are able to pick up the slack when it comes to delivering more classically inspired RPGs, and that they even have the creativity to go above and beyond what’s expected of them. While Cris Tales might be lacking a little bit here and there, anything bad is absolutely outshined by all of the good—you’ve got nothing to lose by checking this one out.

Out of the Park Baseball 24 is one of the most compelling sports simulations I’ve ever played. It offers enough guidance to help players get past the initial hurdle of complexity and really engage with the absurd number of systems and options on offer here. If you’re the sort of person whose favorite part of sports is often the numbers behind it, welcome to your new obsession.

Rain Code Plus, despite dragging on a bit too long, is probably my favorite Spike Chunsoft game to date. It has stellar writing that maybe leans too hard into exposition dumps but more often comes together to create a world that is full of depth, populated with interesting characters and lore that flesh the world of Rain Code Plus out in a way that the genre rarely seems capable of. For visual novel fans who may have missed out on the initial switch release, the re-release of Rain Code Plus should not be missed.

If you have PlayStation Plus, there’s no reason not to check out Virtua Fighter 5: Ultimate Showdown. Even if it fails to hook you, free is a good price. If you don’t have Plus, there’s very little reason to get it, however. This is especially true since Plus is required to play online, and there’s almost nothing to do if you aren’t playing online. While it is a shame that so much content from past games isn’t here, this is still one of the best playing fighting games ever made. That’s no small accomplishment. For those who don’t love facing live opponents over and over, though, this may be more of a curiosity than a new passion. Still, I’m just glad to see Virtua Fighter back in the fight. Hopefully, the next time the series makes a return, it will be with a new title.

Anyone who enjoys the Yakuza series should check out Judgment. While it doesn’t stand apart from the main series as much as I might have liked, with its most significant weaknesses being the places it tried to go its own way, the core gameplay from its parent series is as good as ever, and it features perhaps the best story in the entire saga.

Soul Hackers 2 made some interesting decisions—some of which I don’t totally agree with. But, even with whatever grievances I might have, I can’t deny that the game was ultimately both incredibly fun and well put-together. Devil Summoner might not carry the same weight as other spinoff series within the MegaTen universe, but Soul Hackers 2 is one heck of a ride from start to finish.

While it doesn’t end as well as it begins, Tales of Arise told a story I wanted to see through. Even when the plot dipped a bit in the back half, the wonderful cast of characters kept me engaged. Its combat never stopped being a blast either. This is the strongest Tales game in years and definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a new adventure.

Super Mega Baseball 4 is mostly more of the same, but when we’re talking about such a strong series, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The excellent core gameplay here is as great as ever, and the fantastic new Shuffle Draft mode combined with a ton of baseball legends to take on the field should grab the attention of both new players and existing fans of the series. If you’re happy with one of the past games in the series, Super Mega Baseball 4 may not be a must-have upgrade, but it’s definitely the best baseball game on the market.

While the story of Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion may not have connected with me, and the action may not be breaking any new ground, it is ultimately a ton of fun to play with fast-paced action that is instantly engaging yet offers enough variety throughout to keep my attention. Anyone who loves customization will be in absolute heaven and should absolutely check this one out.

Lies of P plays it a little too by the book in terms of gameplay and area design but is ultimately a very solid soulslike, not entirely bereft of uniqueness, granted you know where to look. While I would have liked certain mechanics, primarily those surrounding lying, to have been leaned into a little more, I can’t deny that Neowiz Games did an excellent job overall.

Samba de Amigo: Party Central is an easy sell for Samba De Amigo fans, but it’s also a must-buy for anyone who enjoys rhythm games. It’s got that fast-paced quirky gameplay to keep novelty-seekers on their toes with a tracklist that pretty much anyone will find familiar. Its single-player campaign is challenging while its multiplayer mode amuses — especially that World Party mode where the last monkey standing takes all. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the franchise or testing out your maracas for the first time, Samba de Amigo: Party Central will keep you shaking for hours.

It’s decidedly short but irrefutably sweet. Sure, it’s not perfect, but it’s a great example of why short games can still be worthwhile. And even though there are some awkward design choices, such as not being able to play specific stages at a whim after beating the game, that’s not enough to diminish how fun it is. I honestly hope this is just the first in a long series. Cause I’m curious about who Wally is and why he has such powers. Here’s hoping Neil Jones has more fast-paced stories to tell in the immediate future.

Supraland: Six Inches Under skillfully dodges the “more of the same” problem, introducing a generous amount of fan-favorite tools and mechanisms while also offering a couple more additions that spice up the deep, cavernous dives you’ll be working your way through. The biomes are still as colorful and varied as the base game, and if you’re eager for more of Supraland’s toy-sized world, you’ll get that and then some, all wrapped up in about 8 to 12 hours of solid, fun gameplay that plays exactly like it’s advertised. Goes to show you don’t have to reinvent the wheel; just find new places where that wheel rolls. Just keep an eye out if the save system seems like it’s on the fritz, and do mind the cursor-based menu navigation. After all, it wouldn’t be a proper spelunking journey without a few hang-ups.

Laika: Aged Through Blood can feel like a lot at times. There’s no one mechanic that on its own is an issue, but there’s so much to manage that this is a game with a very high learning curve. Still, this is a singular game that feels so unique that it’s hard to imagine players who it clicks for won’t fall in love with it.

I’m not sure I’ve ever played a racing game that feels better than Forza Motorsport. Whether you’re controlling the fastest car in the game or the slowest, it’s compelling to push each vehicle to its limits and keep finding ways to improve your ride. I wish the experience around this core gameplay found more ways to create a compelling journey, but fans of the genre are mainly coming for the racing itself, and they’ll find everything they need in Forza Motorsport.

So long as you don’t mind your visual novels being less traditional VN and more supplemental in nature, Code: Realize ~Wintertide Miracles~ is a short, sweet, and adorably charming otome title that is sure to keep your heart warm on a cold winter’s day.

I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from B.I.O.T.A. Though it diverged from the Metroidvania genre in some significant ways, I really enjoyed this challenging throwback to games of the past. It marries a compelling and dark sci-fi plot with challenging platforming, fun boss fights, and a vast colony to explore. It’s not a perfect game, and I was definitely frustrated by the many instant death traps, but it’s still a game that retro fans should check out. And that goes double if the game ever makes its way to game consoles.

What the Saints Row reboot truly reminds us is that -- whatever situation they may find themselves in -- the Saints do it for each other. 2022's Saints Row is less about reeling it in and more about coming home. And in the house that Santo Ileso's Saints built, "damn, it feels good to be a gangster.

At its core, PGA Tour 2K23 is the excellent golf game I’ve been missing in recent years. A new three-click swing system opens the game up for players who didn’t care for the analog swinging of old. I’ll be playing way too many hours of this one in the months to come, even if the series could still use some work on its presentation and a bit more variety.

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is a title that comes excruciatingly close to achieving greatness. When you are in the midst of one of the many mysteries that Cordona Island holds, cracking cases and soaking in Frogwares’ fantastic writing, Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is up there with the best the series has to offer. Unfortunately, performance issues hold back the open-world exploration to an extent that drags the overall experience down. Nevertheless, even with the technical drawbacks, the main gameplay loop of cracking cases and solving puzzles is stronger than ever and well worth the price of admission.

Despite my issues with the adventure, GIGASWORD is still a tremendous Metroidvania experience. It’s frankly hard to believe this was made by a solo developer, it’s that good. Not only is it one of the best examples of the genre I’ve played in recent memory, it’s also a game that’s a glowing love letter to the NES era of gaming. Here’s hoping the issues I mentioned above get fixed so that everyone can fully enjoy this puzzle platformer.

NERVE is a great little blast if you enjoy little bursts of fun. It’s also a good time if you commit more effort and experience to get good. Either way, if you’re up for a new adrenaline rush with tons of bright colors and a brilliant electronic soundtrack, then NERVE needs to race to the very top of your new gaming list.

Sure, Super Alloy Ranger isn’t breaking the mold of 2D action platformers, but Alloy Mushroom manages to perfectly capture the essence of what made old-school classics feel, look, and play great. Not to mention how affordable and humble the asking price is at $9.99. There’s a ton of replayability here, with two characters to play and master, secrets and collectables to find, and plenty of stages to perfect. If you’re a fan of Mega Man games or someone who appreciates gorgeous pixel art, this is a no-brainer purchase for you.

While the boomshtick might wear out its welcome with enough rounds spent, it’ll always have a place for those with an attraction to trying their luck, proving that a good concept, when fleshed out just enough, can say all it needs to leave a lasting impression. If you’ve got an itchy trigger finger and are craving a fatal game of chance, Buckshot Roulette serves its purpose and shows promise for so much more down the line.

Aeon Drive isn't a perfect game, but it has a lot going for it. It features precise platforming, lush graphics, and an interesting premise. Sure the plot isn't as well-realized as I hoped, and the game even ends on a serious cliffhanger ending (again), but I still think this is an adventure that fans of the original will enjoy. It's different, but not in any ways that hurt my enjoyment. Here's hoping 2Awesome Studio keeps up the good work, and that this isn't the last we've heard of Jack and V.E.R.A.

Honestly, I had no idea what to expect from Pulling No Punches. I’ve played a lot of beat ’em ups, and in recent years very few have made an impression. But this one absolutely did. While the game’s themes and the narrative’s brash nature may offend some, I find the game a breath of fresh air. It combines a unique visual style with dynamic combat, amazing bosses, and plenty of reasons to keep playing, especially with a group of friends. If this is the first project from BrainDead Broccoli, I’m eager to see what their encore presentation might be.

Wife Quest‘s cutesy aesthetic and straightforward mechanics belie a competent yet surprisingly difficult platformer. You’ll need to approach this adventure with patience and dexterity (and an appreciation for a bit of ham and lewdness certainly wouldn’t hurt, either). If you’re up to the occasionally unforgiving challenge this platformer offers and don’t mind some fanservice here and there, then this is a quest well worth undertaking.

Ultimately, I have more positive things than negative to say about FEZ. Sure it can be cumbersome and confusing at times, but it’s still a beautiful and creative game. It’s nice I was finally able to play this one-time exclusive on a Nintendo console.

Soulstice is a fantastic time and successfully emulates the glory days of the character-driven action genre, whilst also implementing some neat ideas of its own that make it stand out from the competition. Visually, it may not stack up to the competition, but when you are in the thick of the action, looking like a total badass thanks to the easy-to-learn, difficult-to-master combat system, you’ll be having so much fun that it becomes very easy to overlook Soulstice’s flaws.

Trails Through Daybreak II is a fantastic slice of JRPG action that sings when focusing on its combat, progression, and exploration that rewards due to the richness Calvard presents in its world-building.

I may have been uncertain at the start whether or not I would enjoy Devil Slayer Raksasi, but in the end, it’s actually one of the best rogues I’ve played in a long while. While graphically, it may not shatter anyone’s expectations, and the music is generally pretty muted, it does so much more right in how it plays. Coupled with an interesting premise, mysterious robed overlords, demon hybrids, and monsters, and you end up with a really satisfying indie game. I’m definitely impressed and look forward to future projects from GlassesCatGames.

Observer: System Redux is a very high-quality psychological horror title, and truly one-of-a-kind (not counting the original, of course). While it may not provide players with many of the normal horror tropes and mechanics—choosing instead to almost entirely submerge them in atmosphere alone—it still manages to create a consistently unnerving environment, happily coated in a gorgeous cyberpunk aesthetic. So long as you don’t mind a more hands-off approach to horror, System Redux will absolutely not let you down.

In a world full of pandering pablum and endlessly milked franchises, it’s extraordinary for a big-budget game to be so daringly different. Death Stranding: Director’s Cut doesn’t just re-invent the wheel, it re-invents the whole cart, and that’s why the definitive edition of Hideo Kojima’s opus is well worth playing.

I truly hope that Sword and Fairy: Together Forever finally releasing on consoles gives the series the boost it needs towards more widespread recognition globally. It’s a fantastic title with some of the deepest lore to grace the genre in a while, which also manages to back up its compelling narrative with combat that is a joy to engage with. In a summer that has sorely been lacking in epic RPGs for genre enthusiasts to get stuck into, Sword and Fairy: Together Forever not only helps fill that void but does so with a level of style and heart that begs to be experienced.

Overall, Video Game Fables is a solid RPG experience, and is even more impressive when you consider that it was made by just one person. It’s quirky, it’s cute, it’s addicting, and it never takes itself seriously. Even if you’re burnt out on turn-based RPGs, I think there’s still a lot to enjoy here. While not a perfect game, it’s an undeniably enjoyable and delightful one.

Honestly, the only complaint I have after playing Nif Nif is that I wish there were more to do in this charming world. Sure, there’s unlockable content and two playable characters, but the genre is all about immersive replay value. I spent more than a couple of hours playing the game and have unlocked a good chunk of it. I suspect you can unlock everything in less than 10 hours, which is great for those on a schedule, but bad if you want to unwind in this family-friendly world.

With so many options to customize your team and strategic battles that feel better than ever, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is exactly what a sequel is supposed to be, building on the foundation the first game laid down while not being afraid to shake things up. A general lack of polish feels wrong in a game starring Mario, but beyond those issues lies a fantastic strategy title for all ages.

Minor issues aside, Lost Eidolons is a truly impressive tactical RPG. It has solid and easy-to-grasp mechanics and manages to differentiate itself thanks to the weapon swapping and realistic visual style. While there’s still some room for improvement and some minor issues that require fixing, I can wholeheartedly recommend this to any fans of the genre. Here’s hoping this talented new team has many more exciting adventures to share in the future.

Death end re;Quest is one of the best games that Compile Heart has ever made. While it may not manage to avoid all of the tropes that you’d expect to see from a CH game, it’s obvious that a lot of effort has been put into this game, and it absolutely shows. It’s a weird combination of sci-fi, horror, comedy, visual novel, and JRPG elements that were all put together in just the right way to allow them to work together in a near-perfect way. Whether you’re a Compile Heart fan who initially passed this game by, a pre-existing DerQ fan, or just someone with even a mild interest in this game, I’d say to just go ahead and pick up Death end re;Quest for Switch. It’s relatively cheap, and a lot of fun and the smorgasbord of DLC that comes with this version doesn’t hurt anything, either.

For those who want a brutally raw retro-styled shooter where constant carnage is the order of the day, Serious Sam 4 will sate the bloodlust of even the most maniacal gamers. Not only that, but it’s genuinely funny and well-written, and the trials and tragedies Sam experiences tugged at my jaded heartstrings far more than I expected them to. Many would not enjoy Serious Sam 4 because gunning down endless waves of slavering aliens and mutants becomes brutally relentless – but if you’re a hardcore shooter purist, that’s exactly what you’re looking for.

Windjammers 2 will more than satisfy fans of the original who are looking to take on their friends. The gameplay is tight, wonderfully balanced, and manages to add additional depth without compromising the series’ intuitive feel. A bit of balance on the roster could still help, and I do wish we had additional single-player content to keep those who prefer to play solo coming back, but this one is still well worth your time.

So, does Persona 4 Arena Ultimax hold up in the eight years since its debut? Absolutely. Arc System Works and Atlus' slugfest of a spin-off is just as satisfying now as it was the day it was first released. The game's easy to pick up yet challenging to master gameplay is suitable for fighting game novices and pros alike. And the excellent Story Modes that further flesh out the narrative are must-play experiences for fans of the franchise...Of course, if you already own the game and all of the DLC, there's little reason to plunk down the cash for this version. But if you've yet to see what Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is all about, there's never been a better time to step into the ring.

Vengeful Heart is worthy of your time if you are at all interested in visual novels. The overall narrative is gripping, and it’s no overstatement to say that at times, I found the visuals and soundtrack mesmerizing. The early stages undoubtedly contain some uneven writing, but it’s a small issue when contrasted with everything the game gets right. If you can look past this, and the linearity of the narrative, then Vengeful Heart is an absolute gem of a visual novel that I would encourage you to support and try out.

Tactics Ogre: Reborn makes some changes to a classic, which meet with mixed success. Qualify of life changes like rewind and simplified class changes are very welcome, but the newly balanced battle system slows down battles that already felt on the slow side. Don’t be mistaken, though, the core game here is still one of the better strategy RPGs of its era, and it holds up in 2022. If you’re a fan of the genre and haven’t gotten the chance to check it out in the past, there’s no need to wait. Pick up Tactics Ogre: Reborn and get ready to lose fifty hours of your life.

Overall, ScourgeBringer is an immensely enjoyable game. Even your best run will be fairly short, so you can pick up and play anytime you feel like it. As light as it is on the story, it’s heavy on action and gameplay. It offers tons of replayability, too, with multiple endings. So if you’re looking for an intense roguelite platformer, give ScourgeBringer a try. I promise you’ll never be so frustrated and happy at the same time.

While a fairly simplistic affair, Slaps & Beans 2 is an enjoyable slice of beat-’em-up action. Between the love for the source material that pours out of every pixel and the massively entertaining set pieces, Slaps & Beans 2 may not be the deepest offering the genre has to offer, but it’s clear it was never meant to be. Instead, what you get is a history lesson in Bud and Terence’s brand of slapstick comedy and a combat system that’s simple enough to provide hours of fun for the whole family. On that basis, Slaps & Beans 2 is an easy recommendation.

Though the Switch may not be as powerful as some of its counterparts, Gearbox Software still managed to do a phenomenal job taking so much content and condensing it into one neatly tied package without taking a major loss in performance. Still, this Switch port’s lack of some multiplayer options, along with a slight visual downgrade and lengthier loading times between stages when compared to other platforms, are a bit of a bummer. However, none of these minor flaws take away from the excitement that Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition provides, whether at home or on the move.

While not all of the features Battlefield 2042 introduces are a hit, and the lack of a single-player component is a little disappointing, the game still manages to deliver the same spectacular skirmishes fans of the series crave with its explosive 128-player conflicts and satisfying selection of near-future weaponry and gadgets. Add to that the impressive Portal Mode, which has the potential to keep a steady stream of community-created content flowing, and Battlefield 2042 could very well keep your itchy trigger finger soothed for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise looking to dominate the leaderboards or a greenhorn ready for your first tour of duty, Battlefield 2042 delivers something worth fighting for.

I have nothing but praise for Wobbledogs. It’s ridiculous yet captivating, its enduring adorability carrying players through the occasional wait times between prayers to the RNG gods (spindly Wobbledog why are you so hard to get??!). If you loved Spore and Viva Pinata and want the perfect blend between the pair, it’d be a doggone shame if you passed up Wobbledogs.

Little Nightmares II is an excellent follow-up to an already terrific game. While the changes it makes to the series’ established formula, such as the dual protagonist story and the addition of combat, are a bit hit or miss, I still found it nearly impossible to put the game down during my six-hour playthrough thanks to its satisfying puzzles and unrivaled atmosphere. If you’re a fan of the original game, then this is a game you won’t want to miss. However, if the performance problems I mentioned have you on the fence (though honestly, they’re not that bad), perhaps consider picking up the game on a more capable platform than the Switch.

I honestly found Garlic a joy to play, steep challenge and all. While the game may be a little intimidating to some, I found it quite engaging. It features a diversity of content, crazy challenges, great visuals, and a style that was quite unlike anything in recent years. If you’re not worried about dying a few dozen times, I’d say any fan of platformers or old-school games should give this a try.

“Shadow Over Morrowind” may be ESO‘s overarching theme for this year, but The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom promises to be anything but dark and dreary for players… metaphorically speaking, of course. Necrom itself is pretty gloomy, and Apocrypha is… well, you’ll just have to see that one for yourself.

Alekon is an easy sell — if you like Pokemon Snap but want more freedom to roam around and take pictures without a care in the world, this is your game. With over 50 mini-games and literally hundreds of pictures to snap, Alekon took an immensely enjoyable mechanic and added a uniquely fun flair to the mix. If N64 games were your bread and butter growing up and you want a taste of that retro goodness with all the fixings of updated UI and smooth controls, you’re pretty much obligated to add Alekon to your plate.

Painting Werther is a gorgeous deep dive on a classic novel depicting the dangerously obsessive emotion that is limerence. It stays true to Goethe’s message while enhancing the immersion with beautiful paintings and stunning music. Although it may be on the shorter side, the experience should not be measured in hours, but impact — and Painting Werther makes a powerful impact. If you’ve ever wanted to feel well-read while still getting your gaming in, Painting Werther compells you to show it some love.

Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key is a well-earned conclusion to Reisalin “Ryza” Stout’s story, with its improvements upon the previous titles and systems that provide endless amounts of customization.

Inkulinati manages to blend style and substance, creating a game that is mechanically simple yet has a ton of strategic depth for players to discover. If you’re a fan of board games, strategy games, or even just the art style, I’d recommend checking this one out. Who knows, you might be the next Inkulinati Master.

Despite the fact that I would have liked to see Gimmick! get the full special edition treatment, Gimmick! Special Edition is a winner in my book if only because it brings such an important game to the West after all these years. While it’s undoubtedly a game of its era, Gimmick! holds up well as a charming, imaginative platformer that is still a ton of fun to play today. Even better, thanks to the new enhancements, its extreme difficulty will no longer stop players who aren’t up to the challenge from seeing all the wonderful things it has to offer.

Growbot is a genuine delight that will reawaken the joy of children’s storybooks within you. Featuring stunningly magical hand-drawn illustrations and an incredibly imaginative biopunk setting, Growbot takes players on a journey filled with vibrant color, verdant beauty, dazzling light, and warm characters. If you’re looking for a cozy new world to snuggle deeply into, Growbot is ready when you are.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Dry Drowning. It’s got a lot going for it – excellent writing, a deep, riveting story, and plenty of replayability with branching paths and multiple endings. The few flaws the game does have are more a minor nuisance than any kind of real hindrance. If you’re looking for something Phoenix Wright adjacent, but with a dark, intense slant, I definitely recommend giving Dry Drowning a shot.

Speed Limit is a love letter to the rush of emotions felt during off-the-wall action sequences of the 80s. It’s engaging but not enraging, explosive but not expensive — just like an all-out action game ought to be. Some players may lament at the game’s length, but all good things come to an end sooner or later, right? And for only $9.99, it’s honestly a great price for the cinematics alone. If you love over the top action movies and games and want to grab a new speedrunning experience, Speed Limit is a must buy.

There’s a lot to like about Phantom Fury. The retro stylings and atmosphere are instantly engrossing, the weapon variety is great and it’s overall entertaining. Sadly, it’s weighed down by various bugs and niggles, and it’s not so jam-packed with secrets, one-liners and references as Ion Fury. This is why it’s a good game, but not quite the classic it could have been. Nonetheless, if you’re eager to rediscover the high-octane thrills of Millenial shooters, Phantom Fury doesn’t just hit the mark, it blasts it to pieces and makes a smug quip.

I had an incredible amount of fun with Samurai Warriors 4 DX and will continue to do so as I go about trying to max out my bonds in the expansive Chronicle mode. While it is undoubtedly a title that shows its age technically, Samurai Warriors 4 DX is a perfect slice of Musou action for anyone craving the simplicity of decades gone by, where you could switch your brain off and bask in the glory of hundreds of enemies being sent flying with very little need to engage the brain. With a massive roster of characters, a generous helping of story content, and a dangerously addictive Chronicle mode, if you previously missed out on Samurai Warriors 4 DX, then this PC release serves as the perfect chance to get in on some classic Musou action.

Jagged Alliance 3 is a versatile strategy RPG, packed with personality and entertainment. You really have an opportunity to overcome tactical problems with your own personalized approach without being forced into playing a certain way. Any hardened SRPG mercenaries looking to take on a challenging but rewarding contract will definitely enjoy spending countless hours delving into the jungles of Gran Chien.

HoloVista was an incredible experience for so many different reasons, but I think my favorite was how it handled Vaporwave’s chaotic elements.

While at times the repetition inherent in its design got to me, the thing Hardspace: Shipbreaker shares most with those podcast games is that its core gameplay loop can feel incredible. That it sometimes tore me out of my complacency with no notice and made me fight for my life didn’t stop me from wanting to play just a few minutes more, it made the desire to do so nearly impossible to resist. Paying off your debt may be an endless slog, but when it feels this good I know I’ll be signing up for another tour with LYNX.

Retro gamers, rejoice! Alwa’s Legacy is finally available on the Nintendo Switch, and boy does it feel good being here. If you have a Pro controller, do not hesitate to hook this bad boy up to the TV and play like you’re a kid again. Alwa’s Legacy will remind you of days gone by, when renting a game from Blockbuster and trying to beat it within a few days to avoid racking up crazy prices was the thing to do, and with pizza in one hand and drink of choice in the other, you really can’t go wrong making a retro night out of this. Be sure to check out Alwa’s Legacy for a fresh game with a familiar feel.

Scarf is the perfect game for players who fondly remember titles like Spyro, Journey, and Abzu but want to be able to finish a game in its entirety in one sitting. Its emotionally driven storyline is short, sweet, and to the point with aesthetics that enchant from beginning to end. If you’re looking for something with a fresh yet familiar feel to sink your teeth into without committing too much time and money, it’s honestly hard to top Scarf.

ALTDEUS: Beyond Chronos is by far one of the most impressive visual novels I’ve ever experienced and sets the bar for how the genre should work in VR. I’ve never felt so completely and utterly immersed in not only a game and its world, but in an anime. From the larger-than-life story to the amped up music and visuals, ALTDEUS: Beyond Chronos took my breath away time and time again, pushing the limits of what I knew about VR visual novels. If you have a VR headset, a little bit of patience for a slow-burn story, and 20 – 30 hours to really get into everything it has to offer, you’re more or less obligated to pick up ALTDEUS: Beyond Chronos.

Despite my gripes, Trinity Trigger is a charming little JRPG that successfully provides a role-playing fix for anyone who may want something a little less intense from the genre. For me, the success of a JRPG is largely based on two factors – the strength of the narrative and how engaging the combat is. On both these fronts, Trinity Trigger is a resounding success, and the fact that it’s playable from start to finish in local co-op, with online soon to follow, is a fantastic touch that should elevate the experience further. With fast-paced combat that manages to stay interesting if you’re willing to dig into the customizable nature of each weapon and a narrative that does a great job of establishing a universe with a complex and storied past, Trinity Trigger is proof that there is absolutely space for these more scaled back experiences, and I hope this is just the beginning of FuRyu tailoring to this particular niche in the market.

Weird West sometimes gets its wagon wheels stuck on the sand with its exciting but underdeveloped ideas. Nonetheless, it’s still well worth a fair few silver dollars for being an ambitiously open-ended Action-RPG with a truly unique story and ambiance. So saddle up, partner. We’ve got some outlaws and zombies to hunt!

If you’ve yet to pick up the six previously-released games on this collection, then Neo Geo Pocket Color Selection Vol. 1 is easy to recommend. Packed with hours upon hours of retro-gaming goodness, it’s as close as it gets to a definitive look at SNK’s 8-bit handheld.

Despite any perceived difficulties experienced in Narita Boy, all can be forgiven if you enjoy a world that immerses itself completely in the tech of a bygone era. There’s something to be said about racing against the digital wind on a CRT-horse in a pixelated world that looks like the SNES Star Wars game but feels like that infamous Battletoads level. If you know that exact vibe I’m talking about, you gotta check out Narita Boy. After all, the fate of the Digital Kingdom rests in your hands.

Mayhem Brawler is hands down the most fun I’ve had with a beat-’em-up since Streets of Rage 4. With its gorgeous graphics, satisfying combat, and plenty of replayability, it’s a slugfest that will keep you coming back for more. While the game probably would have benefited from a more engaging combo system, it makes up for this with a great selection of weapons and a colorful cast of playable characters. If you’ve finished Streets of Rage 4’s Mr. X Nightmare DLC and are looking for a new way to get your beat-’em-up fix, look no further. Mayhem Brawler will punch you in your face, and you’ll like it.