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.

I ended Unpacking with a huge smile on my face. Offering a truly unique storytelling experience, one few games can really compare to, I loved seeing a developer very much go their own way and try something different, especially since it all came together so wonderfully. Combine that with the zen-like comforts of designing these various rooms, and Unpacking is a game that players should definitely unpack. Now to get back to unpacking my own stuff.

While I do think there was room for some additional quality of life features here, and it sometimes gets a bit too clever for its own good, The Case of the Golden Idol took me back to my childhood, reminding me of the puzzles I once loved while putting its own spin on things that would only work in a video game. This idol might be cursed, but you should still take a chance on it.

If you’ve been salivating for a new old-school RPG on modern consoles, Live A Live is a proper treat. The selection of stories you play are lovely and varied, the beautifully upscaled look of the game brings details to vibrant new life, and there is a lot of retro arcadey goodness in here to bask in. Furthermore, the shortness of each individual story makes each of them easy to play without feeling overloaded or that you’re missing something. Live A Live can get tricky, its grid-based battle system is a little passe, and it isn’t the most awe-inspiring remake you ever saw, but it’s a lovingly crafted revitalization that will please anybody with a fondness for old-school JRPGs.

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.

PowerWash Simulator is one of the best in its genre; despite this, it continually gets better. Although the PC version with a mouse and keyboard offers more precision, the Switch version takes the pressure of finishing an entire job in one sitting off players. If you’ve always been curious about PowerWash Simulator but don’t have a PC (or the time to devote several hours to a single job), the Switch version of PowerWash Simulator cleans up nicely.

Even after all these years, SNK VS. Capcom: Card Fighters’ Clash mostly lives up to what I hoped it could be. A more in-depth single-player mode would have been great and online matches are a glaring omission, but you still have an incredibly deep, rewarding card game with a ton of flavor from series many of us have loved for a very long time. This one could steal a lot of hours from your life.

Ultimately, Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon is a great success. It managed to meld a classic indie series with a dynamic new style, and for the most part, it works pretty well. Yes, it may be a bit too challenging for its own good, but not so much I ever put it down for long. If you’re a fan of the series or just enjoy new puzzle games, I’d definitely check it out. Besides the main adventure, there’s a ton of other modes to explore, as well as secrets to uncover. Here’s hoping the next offshoot title from Yacht Club Games continues this positive trend.

No doubt about it, SEGA took some considerable risks when they decided to change their established formula so radically for Yakuza: Like A Dragon. But in the end, I think the gamble paid off. Ryū ga Gotoku Studio’s latest offering may not pack the punchy, moment to moment gameplay of its predecessors. Still, it makes up for that with its more in-depth brawls, an engaging job system, and a story that focuses not just on a single protagonist but on several compelling heroes with their own complex motivations.

Despite some issues with bugs and shooting that could use a little more weight behind it, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy tells a fantastic story that kept me glued to my seat until the very end. An excellent voice cast, killer 80s soundtrack, and strategic combat sweetened the deal. Anyone looking for a fun action game should consider checking it out, and for fans of the Guardians, this is an absolute must-play.

So, should you add Mushihimesama to your Switch library? If you’re a fan of the shoot ’em up genre, I’d say it’s a no-brainer. It’s an exhilarating ride that will put your skills to the test. But you don’t have to be a shooter veteran to enjoy what the game has to offer. The Novice Mode dials back the challenge considerably and serves as a great tool for dipping your toe into what the Bullet Hell genre is all about. If you’re curious about Cave’s shoot ’em ups or are a veteran flyboy looking for a robust addition to your Switch library, don’t hesitate. Mushihimesama is a must-buy.

Beacon Pines is easily one of the top ten games I’ve played this year and one of the first recommendations I’d give to players looking for something quick but layered. With a lovely art style, cozy setting, exceptional character development, and an edge-of-your-seat story, Beacon Pines is a unique blend of sweet and sinister that proves difficult to put down — in fact, I couldn’t stop myself from playing it from start to finish in one go! If you’re looking for something charmingly cute yet deceptively dark with a clever mechanic and rich world, Beacon Pines invites you to solve its many mysteries and find the true end to this troubled tale.

I’ll be entirely honest here: Little Goody Two Shoes’ striking art style alone could sell the game. The ’90s anime stylings are superbly recreated here, feeling like a fever dream of an anime VHS tape you watched way back when. The four main maidens of this tale are well-spun and memorable, and even the more minor side characters all have their points of interest, helping tie together the short but sweet adventure all the better.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is a triumphant return to 2D for Ninja Gaiden. Hopefully, we won’t have to wait decades to see the series follow up on it. I genuinely loved every single level. The team at The Game Kitchen does a fantastic job of continuing to build upon established mechanics while also finding new ways to twist them and entirely new twists to throw at players through the game’s four acts. Any fan of action games needs to check this one out.

Look, I know I've been piling on the praise in this review, but believe me when I say this is a game that deserves every last bit of it. I’ve probably played hundreds of beat-'em-ups over the years. However, precious few manage to do what Dotemu and Tribute Games have managed to do here. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is nothing short of lightning in a bottle; one of those rare examples of a game that simply doesn’t miss a beat from the moment it starts until the credits roll. Sure, you may come for the nostalgia and irresistible retro-inspired presentation, but it’s the rock-solid core mechanics that offer the perfect balance of depth and approachability that will keep you coming back time and time again. If that sounds even remotely up your alley, then go, ninja, go, ninja, go and add this game to your collection. It’s a true testament to Turtle Power.

Gerda: A Flame in Winter is a masterful work of art in both the gaming and storytelling spheres; both aspects enhanced by the other, their impact reduced should they be somehow disconnected from each other. Every moment I spent with it was simultaneously energizing and exhausting, as I was emotionally drained on Gerda’s behalf after each level but couldn’t stop myself from continuing the story, desperate to know what happened next. If you’ve ever wondered what you would do as a civilian in WWII, Gerda: A Flame in Winter gives you the ability to see through the Danish resistance’s eyes.

I’m incredibly glad I got the opportunity to review Infernax. It’s another top notch title from Berzerk Studio, and it’s perfect for fans of platforming and old school challenge. Featuring multiple endings, tons of humor and epic bosses, it’s a game that should be on the radar of every hardcore gamer out there. If you’re a fan of platforming and love letters to games of the past, go buy this game. It’s that simple.

Gordian Quest draws inspiration from old-school RPGs, Dungeons & Dragons, and deck-builders like Slay the Spire, yet it proudly stands on its own. With deep, addictive gameplay and endless replayability with multiple play modes, Gordian Quest boldly blazes its own trail. It’s rare that a game can draw from so many sources and have the end product feel so refined, yet this game delivers in spades. I can’t recommend this game enough to fellow deck-builder and RPG lovers.

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.

From the beautiful art and ethereal music to the addicting gameplay and loveable cast, Fuga: Melodies of Steel is easy to recommend to any fan of turn-based, strategy RPGs. It’s got everything that players love mechanically, but it’s blended in such a fun and innovative way that it feels simultaneously fresh and familiar. Complete with an invigorating story set against a soundtrack that was more like .hack// than anything I’d heard in a long time (felt indescribably amazing to listen to), Fuga: Melodies of Steel should absolutely be on your radar. Just… try not to use the Soul Cannon; yeeting four year olds at enemies does not for a good war strategy make.

Just as Disgaea 6 was an example of how a good series can begin to deteriorate over time, Disgaea 7 is a good—nay, great—example of how it’s never too late for a series to get back on track. Not only does Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless fix the myriad mistakes of its predecessor to the point of over-correction (and I mean that in a good way), but it even finds ways of utilizing mechanics that debuted in Disgaea 6 in ways that are both balanced and, if you’ll pardon the pun, intelligent. Regardless of whether you lauded or loathed the adventures of Zed & co., there’s no excuse to skip out on what is both the latest and greatest entry in the Disgaea series. Hinomoto is beckoning you—answer its call!

Avalanche Software has managed to turn a once far-fetched dream into a reality for many Harry Potter fans, as Hogwarts Legacy is simply a masterful fantasy experience. Despite a few hiccups here and there, this is still, hands down, the most authentic and immersive Wizarding World video game out there. My time with Hogwarts Legacy has been nothing short of remarkable, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the franchise from Warner Bros.

I was really excited about Trails Through Daybreak, and I’m not sure that I got everything out of it that I was hoping for—especially when you pile on some of NISA’s head-scratching localization choices. But it’s still a Trails game at the end of the day, and Nihon Falcom always delivers when it comes to this series. The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak may tread old ground in certain areas, but it’s ultimately an excellent JRPG experience with a phenomenal, character-driven narrative that’s absolutely worth your time.

Resident Evil Village is a worthwhile addition to Capcom’s survival horror franchise. It’s an explosive and brutal thrill ride that will surely please fans of Resident Evil 4 or those who enjoyed Resident Evil 7 but felt it could use a bit more action. While I don’t think I’d call it my personal favorite entry in the series (that honor goes to Resident Evil 2), I feel Capcom has done an admirable job of combining the strengths of two of the franchise’s most memorable titles to create something new and exciting. If you’re a fan of the series, then this is one game that absolutely deserves a spot in your PS5 library.

While a few issues remain, Lost Judgment improves on its predecessor in almost every way and is a must-play for fans of the Yakuza series.

Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective was a fantastic DS remaster candidate for several reasons, including its acclaim and low reliance on the top DS screen. It stands to reason that a modern console and PC refresh would be met with excitement from both fans of the original and those who never got to play it the first time around, but to say that expectations were exceeded would be an understatement. If you’re even remotely curious about the title or want to see how 3/DS remasters should be done, it’s really no mystery that you should pick up Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective.

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.

Anomaly Agent won’t leave you pondering its vast world or lore. Instead, it delivers a focused, high-octane blast of retro-infused action. The combat’s frenetic energy, the charm of its pixel art, and the genuinely funny moments of absurdity made it a blast to play from start to finish. While I wouldn’t call it a masterpiece, those craving a quick hit of adrenaline-fueled, laugh-out-loud thrills will find Anomaly Agent a worthwhile escape. And hey, sometimes a little mindless, time-bending absurdity is exactly what you need.