With Directive 8020, Supermassive comes out of the gate strong: a compelling story with a solid, diverse cast that makes for a horror adventure that slowly unfolds. The formula of making choices and living with consequences is somewhat undermined by the Rewind feature. Given the claustrophobic and tense nature of this story, the emphasis on stealth gameplay is a very smart decision. By constantly shaking up its gameplay elements, Directive 8020 never grows stale – helped in no small part by the fact that the game can be completed in six to eight hours. If you're a fan of Event Horizon or The Thing, this game is a must-play. All other horror fans will find a capable game, where the developers take their time building towards something truly impressive.

Like Returnal before it, Saros didn't need to be a roguelike at all. That the experience holds up so confidently regardless is a testament to the game's quality, largely because the core gameplay is once again every bit as tight as you'd expect from Housemarque.

A game that completely absorbed me with my own created world and characters, but ultimately also made me realize that I mainly had to make it fun myself.

The music, voiceovers, and bizarre weapons do a great job of masking the shortcomings of Mouse. Mouse P.I. For Hire won't be the game of the year, but in my opinion, it's the most stylish one.

Pragmata is a game you have to experience to understand why it works so well. The story sometimes lacks depth, but the gameplay more than makes up for it. Everything comes together in a rhythm that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Grime II fails to learn enough from its predecessor’s shortcomings, especially its technical ones, but still delivers another stunning Metroidvania packed with thrilling action, challenging platforming puzzles, (art) philosophy, and atmosphere.

With Midnight, World of Warcraft once again delivers a fantastic expansion, featuring a beautiful new version of Silvermoon and the surrounding areas, a highly entertaining story, and new systems that can keep the game going strong for years to come.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Meetup in Bellabel Park remains a wonderful platformer. Its colorful playfulness bursts off the screen, and the levels remain remarkably inventive. It's a shame this expansion doesn't include more single-player content, but even if the minigames do nothing for you, there's still plenty to enjoy in Bellabel Park. Now it's time to wait for a truly new 2D Mario.

Marathon is a game that is truly unmatched, especially in terms of style and gunplay. Beneath its visual presentation and incredibly strong soundtrack lies a game that is remarkably special, though it will not immediately appeal to everyone because it is so hardcore. For me, it is one of the best first-person shooters ever made. In terms of level design, Marathon is even better than Destiny, and the release of its most recent level, Cryo Archive, only reinforced that even further. It takes a little while to get into at first, but once you push through that initial barrier, you are in for an unforgettable experience.

Crimson Desert is an excellent game with an engaging open world, highly challenging boss fights, and mind-bending puzzles. The game is certainly not perfect, but Pearl Abyss' willingness to listen to feedback gives me hope that Crimson Desert will only continue to improve in the future on what is already a strong foundation.

Tales of Berseria remains what it always was: a strong JRPG with a compelling story and memorable characters. However, this remaster feels less like a true return and more like an expensive 60-fps patch. If you've never played the original, this is still highly recommended. But if you're already familiar with it, you have to wonder if this version has added enough to warrant a fresh start.

Diablo 2: Resurrected is truly back with the Reign of the Warlock expansion, after never really going away.

Pokémon Pokopia has turned out to be an excellent game that, honestly, has given me a lot more enjoyment than Pokémon Legends Z-A and Animal Crossing. It’s one of the better cozy games, and you can easily sink dozens of hours into it. For me, the credits rolled after about thirty-five hours of play, but even after that I still have plenty to do to keep myself entertained.

Resident Evil: Requiem finds the perfect balance between survival horror and explosive action thanks to its two protagonists. The result is an outstanding experience that managed to keep me constantly engaged.

Ys X: Proud Nordics isn’t a revolutionary reinvention of the series, but it is the most coherent and streamlined Ys in years. The maritime system works, the duo combat deepens the formula, and the build options give players more control than ever. The story is solid, but it lacks the emotional high point of its strongest predecessors. The combat is refined, but not limitless. The re-release is the best version, but not an automatic upgrade. What remains is an action RPG that almost never loses its rhythm. And sometimes that’s exactly what a series needs: not a revolution, but a sense of direction.

Mewgenics is a bizarre, complex, and at times unforgiving game. That is precisely why it’s so hard to put down.

With High On Life 2, Squanch Games has created a wonderfully colorful, varied, and creative game. The gameplay is tightly structured, and the humor is absolutely captivating, but never overly crude. It's a game I can't play continuously however as it's still quite chaotic in terms of overall impressions. That said, the game is an improvement over the first installment in almost every aspect and is definitely worth playing. A short break between main missions is certainly a necessity for me.

God of War: Sons of Sparta is a solid and well-crafted metroidvania with strong combat and tight level design. Within the genre, it never truly excels in any exceptional way, but it knows exactly what it wants to be. The repetition in enemy design and the conservative skill tree prevent it from fully rising above itself. At the same time, its focus on character makes it a meaningful chapter within the broader God of War story. The game is neither a revolution nor a new benchmark, but it is a thoughtful and thematically strong origin piece that credibly deepens Kratos’ evolution.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 has turned out to be a very solid remake. RGG Studios has significantly cut back on side quests, but simultaneously introduced new elements and storylines that provide more depth. While the game might be slightly shorter than before due to the trimmed substories, the quality of the overall experience hasn't suffered. Unfortunately, Dark Ties doesn't offer a whole lot of content, clocking in at just a quarter of Yakuza Kiwami 3’s playtime. Nevertheless, the complete package is definitely worth picking up.

REANIMAL feels in every way like the natural successor to the first two Little Nightmares games, yet it manages to establish enough of its own identity to avoid feeling like a simple retread. Tarsier Studios proves they still perfectly master the DNA of this formula, elevating the experience in subtle but meaningful ways through a more intense atmosphere, new gameplay elements, and a more cohesive world.

If you're into surreal games, Romeo Is a Deadman is an absolute must-play. The story is bonkers, and even if you appreciate the idea of a digital art exhibition in a game, it can still be hard to follow at times. The combat could have felt a bit more modern and refined in places, but this is largely made up for by the strong gameplay loop and the sheer amount of playful minigames that keep everything fresh.

When Nioh 3 is at its best, it’s extremely good. Some of the open-world segments can easily hold their own against the best levels from previous games. A number of the new bosses also measure up to the series’ better boss fights. Unfortunately, an open world also comes with the usual complaints.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined seems to combine the best elements of the earlier versions in many ways. The overall playtime may have been trimmed down a bit and some minor bits of content have been removed here and there, but it’s all been done in service of the story, resulting in a much smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Code Vein 2 is a promising sequel that learns from its mistakes. The combat is tighter, the world more vibrant, and the story surrounding time travel and the Resurgence is reasonably engaging from beginning to end. Although navigation in the open world can sometimes be frustrating and the weapon variety may feel somewhat limited in practice due to the upgrade system, what you get here is a solid and highly entertaining action RPG that will appeal to both fans of the original and newcomers alike.

Mio: Memories in Orbit is a largely brilliantly designed Metroidvania. The setting and central mystery are intriguing, the watercolor art style is beautiful, and Mio feels great to control. Her powers, and the way you use them, are cleverly conceived. When Mio is at its best, it can comfortably stand alongside the genre’s greats. Unfortunately, a significant portion in the game’s second half makes it linear and needlessly frustrating.

Trails Beyond the Horizon is not a game for everyone, and that is both its strength and its weakness. The title rewards years of careful buildup with strong revelations and a compelling finale, but demands a great deal of patience in return.

Dispatch puts you in the heart of moral dilemmas as a dispatcher, with cryptic requests, strong voice acting, a vivid graphic novel style, and an immersive soundtrack. Eight episodes full of choices, reflection, and moral tension.

Skate Story seemingly captures the freedom and bite of skating with ease, while also showing just how difficult it was for developer Sam Eng to reach that point.

The hub connecting the main locations does more harm than good, but it can’t stop the triumphant return of Samus Aran. Beyond that, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a game that only honors its predecessors.

You’re better off waiting a bit before picking up Project Motor Racing. Hopefully the game will improve soon with a few patches, because a solid racing sim on consoles with crossplay has the opportunity to be something special.

Mysteria Ecclesiae is one of the strongest DLCs for KCD2, featuring an intriguing story and a vibrant setting, although the way you’re meant to play it feels a bit too constrained.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment continues in the same style that Age of Calamity used to captivate me five years ago. The combat feels great and becomes increasingly engaging as you play, while sending enemies flying through the air as you dominate the battlefield has an almost therapeutic effect. There’s so much to discover and unlock on the map that I constantly felt like I was making progress – even if much of it is repetitive. It also presents a story through extensive cutscenes that are fully voice-acted – and, above all, remarkably serious. The new Switch 2 hardware has solved Age of Calamity’s biggest issue: there are no more frame drops, and it looks fantastic in higher resolution. When all is said and done, Age of Imprisonment completely drew me in, and it was a joy to watch the hours fly by on TV or in handheld mode just as quickly as the Bokoblins launched from my sword.

Once Upon a Katamari is a worthy successor to the series. All the cheerful whimsy of the original games has been preserved. The abundance of levels and collectibles, the challenging yet excellent controls, the infectious music, colorful visuals, and humorous little stories can’t help but put a smile on your face.

Dragon Quest 1+2 HD-2D Remake has turned out to be an excellent game that takes modern audiences into full account. There are plenty of options to make your gameplay experience as easy or as challenging as you want, and both games were already true classics in their original form.

The Outer Worlds 2 is an RPG that retains the strengths of the original but presents them on a larger scale, with more variety and a more direct impact on gameplay and choices. For both fans of the first game and newcomers, The Outer Worlds 2 offers a challenging, clever, and humorous sci-fi experience that, despite minor imperfections, is well worth exploring - and revisiting in a potential next playthrough.

Ninja Gaiden 4 has turned out to be a very strong action game. The gameplay is rock solid, and those who love games where you can decapitate, dismember, and brutally tear into your enemies will definitely find plenty of enjoyment here. Still, I would’ve preferred to see PlatinumGames and Team Ninja balance the focus more evenly between Ryu and Yakumo. Ninja Gaiden 4 falls a bit short in polish here and there, and Ryu in particular doesn’t always feel like the Super Ninja the game constantly claims he is.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A neatly solves the biggest problems of Scarlet & Violet for me. The creative interpretation of the battle system combined with the Mega Evolution battles truly makes this Pokémon a joy to play again. The fact that the game holds your hand quite a bit and the story is as transparent as cling film is something I’m more than happy to accept.

Battlefield 6 is Battlefield at its best. The game looks impressive and the audio is, as we’ve come to expect from DICE, absolutely top-tier. But this time, the rest of the package is just as strong. With the return of traditional classes, crisp hit registration and a wide arsenal of weapons, there’s a solid foundation in place to keep Battlefield relevant for months, and maybe even years, to come. The single-player campaign also deserves praise: it doesn’t feel like a box-ticking exercise, but like a meaningful addition. Battlefield 6 once again bursts with the spectacle that made the series famous, even if the amount of content at launch could have been a bit more substantial.

The beat ’em up foundation of Absolum is smooth and fluid, and the roguelike twist adds the necessary depth, making it almost endlessly replayable. In recent years, quite a few games have shown how cool beat ’em ups used to be. Absolum shows how brilliant the genre can truly be from now on.

Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are excellent 3D platformers, and it’s nice that the second installment is now also playable on modern hardware. Still, I’m disappointed by the way the ports have been handled. Nintendo is asking a significantly higher price per game than with Super Mario 3D All-Stars, the last time Super Mario Galaxy was brought to Switch. In return, there’s only some new side content, while nothing meaningful has really been added in terms of gameplay. That said, these remain two of the best games ever made, bundled together in one package.

Silent Hill F delivers with a fantastically atmospheric Japanese setting that feels nothing like the town we know so well. Hiniko is a strong character whose journey drew me in and at times left me shocked. Her village is increasingly overrun, and Hiniko herself undergoes a transformative journey. The monstrous forms that terrorize her are grotesque and at times – thanks to their movements and striking presentation – truly terrifying. Fighting them certainly leaves much to be desired and often proved frustrating. Still, that doesn’t take away from the fact that Silent Hill F is a bold step forward that succeeds wonderfully in what it sets out to achieve as a horror game.

Hades II delivers an excellent sequel to a fantastic game. It does just enough new things to feel refreshing, while never forgetting what made the first entry so great. The game looks stunning and plays beautifully on the Switch 2. With a bit of effort, you can finish it in just a few hours, but at that point, you’ve really only seen the tip of Olympus. Hades II has become one of the best games of the year and is one everyone should definitely try. With Blue Prince, Expedition 33, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Hades II, it’s going to be tough to decide what my favorite game of the year will be. But Hades II absolutely deserves to be in that conversation.

Ghost of Yotei is a very safe sequel to Tsushima. In terms of gameplay, it builds further on what Tsushima already did well. It innovates little in that regard, but it does address every issue I pointed out in my original review of Ghost of Tsushima. On paper, that’s fantastic. Unfortunately, because of its stronger focus on the main character, Ghost of Yotei loses sight of the story of the world around her. Ghost of Yotei matches its predecessor well, but because of its missed storytelling opportunities, it fails to surpass Ghost of Tsushima.

Sonic Racing Crossworld brings back everything its predecessor was missing and delivers a packed, solid racer.

For me, Final Fantasy Tactics The Ivalice Chronicles felt like a warm, nostalgic embrace. I loved puzzling with the many Jobs to get through battles in as few turns as possible and without losing any of my units. The game would easily have scored at least one point higher if it had been in 2D-HD, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a wonderfully polished version of a game that, even 30 years later, is still fantastic to play.

FC 26 is without a doubt one of the best football games in years – perhaps even the best since FIFA 17. This time, the developers have genuinely listened to the fans, rather than just making empty promises. The game – including its servers – feels fast and smooth, making it simply enjoyable to play again. You don’t boot up FC 26 because you feel you have to, but because you want to. In terms of new modes, FC 26 isn’t revolutionary, and graphically we would have liked to see a bit more progress. Still, that hardly takes away from the overall package, which once again guarantees hundreds of hours of fun.

NBA 2K26 is once again a decent installment of the annual basketball series. In terms of gameplay, it feels noticeably smoother, especially on the offensive side of the court. On the flip side, defenders seem less effective. The story mode in MyCareer is surprisingly entertaining and comes with an original European twist. Still, certain aspects of the various game modes could have been fleshed out much better, and in many ways, it feels almost identical to last year’s game. On top of that, in-game purchases still take far too central a role in NBA 2K.

LEGO Voyagers may look like a simple kids’ game, but it turns out to be a short, heartfelt journey full of detail and charm.

Borderlands 4 is a rock-solid co-op game that will keep you busy for dozens of hours. The story isn’t its strength, but the hunt for the best loot is pure fun.

Hollow Knight Silksong exceeds all expectations. Team Cherry manages to create an amazing ever expanding world that has a new challenging adventure around each corner. You feel that every little detail of this game has been hand crafted with so much love and attention. Silksong is an artful masterpiece at a price tag of only €20.

Gears of War: Reloaded hasn’t aged evenly across the board. The movement system and NPC AI in the campaign definitely show their age. Even so, it remains a game with a rock-solid foundation that’s still worth playing today. PlayStation players in particular—who never had the chance to experience this amazing franchise before—are in for a treat. Xbox players, don’t worry, there’s plenty for you too, with a bonus chapter and the ultimate way to play the game in 4K at 120 FPS.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is a brilliant action game that plays just as wonderfully as it looks. It’s easy to pick up, yet packed with depth thanks to a combo system you learn organically. The game continuously expands both combat and exploration with new abilities. Above all, it looks breathtaking with a unique painterly style and stunning lighting effects. Every level is crammed with secrets and extra challenges that provide countless hours of fun. The bosses are tricky, but they never gave me the feeling I couldn’t overcome them. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is the kind of action game they rarely make anymore – and it plays even better than it looks.

Is Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater the ultimate version of this legendary classic? Honestly, not really. It’s a competent remake, but because Konami plays it so safe, I feel there’s little reason to pick up this new version – especially considering the issues on PC. On consoles it might be a different story, but unfortunately we haven’t been able to test those yet. The game looks stunning, but in this remake it feels too easy. If you’ve never played Metal Gear Solid 3 before, you can pick up MGS Δ without hesitation. Purists, however, will undoubtedly remain loyal to the original versions. What I mainly hope is that Konami takes the right lessons from this remake. Fans are craving a true continuation of the series. A remake of a game that still holds up perfectly well will never score outstandingly. Hopefully Konami won’t misinterpret that as a lack of interest in the franchise and put Metal Gear Solid back on ice.

Sword of the Sea is a visually stunning but short experience that, despite its length and minor issues, left a strong impression on me.

Nightwatchers adds a load of high-quality content to a game that’s already excellent. If there was ever a time to pick up Against the Storm, it’s now.

Drag X Drive proves that the mouse function of the Joy-Con 2s is no gimmick, but can be a true game-changer when used the right way. The controls are remarkably precise and intuitive, making the short 3v3 matches feel tight, smooth, and surprisingly intense. The absence of local co-op feels like a missed opportunity, especially for a game with such a strong social focus. In terms of content and visual style, the game also drops the ball somewhat, with little variety and a rather cold presentation. Even so, the innovative controls create such an addictive flow that you’ll keep coming back for “just one more match."

Mafia: The Old Country feels like a return to the original Mafia titles, and that’s exactly what I was hoping for. A linear experience with excellent presentation, exceptional acting, and a solid story. Unfortunately, the combat and stealth are mediocre, but sufficient to keep the story moving. Fans of the series will definitely enjoy it. With the relatively low entry price, I hope potential fans will be tempted — and that this won’t be the last we see of the Mafia franchise.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound masterfully translates the fast-paced action the series is known for into a modern retro title. Thanks to beautifully detailed pixel art, a modern mission structure, and excellent level and boss design, it not only succeeds in letting you relive the Ninja games of the previous century, but even surpasses them. It certainly doesn’t play like Ninja Gaiden on the NES did, but perhaps like how you remember that game through the rose-tinted lens of nostalgia.

PEAK starts off simple but evolves into a hilarious and strategic co-op game packed with clever mechanics, dynamic biomes, and surprisingly deep gameplay. A charming, fresh must-play at a ridiculously low price.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is a fresh hit of nostalgia, though it doesn’t land quite as hard as the first remake. Iron Galaxy has clearly put in a solid effort to bring the games into the modern era, but a few things still slip through the cracks.

Robocop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business is a great follow-up to its 2022 predecessor. While it’s an expansion with a few imperfections, it easily delivers more than enough value for its modest price tag.

Donkey Kong Bananza is the second must-play title of 2025 for Nintendo Switch 2 owners. From start to finish, the game puts a smile on your face—one that won’t fade even after the credits roll. Bananza offers a great deal of freedom, features a fantastic soundtrack, and looks stunning 99% of the time. Add to that the excellent platforming elements and the unique twist of the transformations, and I can’t help but wholeheartedly recommend this game.

Despite a few caveats, Against the Storm remains a game that grabs you and doesn’t let go. It’s challenging, tactical, and consistently fresh. The combination of city-building and roguelite elements works surprisingly well, and it feels like the developers have chosen depth over spectacle. The balance between threat and reward, control and chaos, makes every run exciting. You have to think, plan, and endure – and if you fail, you fail with a lesson in your back pocket.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is a game that exceeds even my wildest dreams in terms of production value. It is by far the most visually stunning game I’ve seen on the PlayStation 5, accompanied by a soundtrack from Woodkid that reaches similarly impressive heights. The game has clearly taken past criticism into account, resulting in a much more accessible experience. Death Stranding 2 is certainly no walking sim, although it does start at a walking pace. Beyond that, it’s a groundbreaking game with an emotionally gripping story, making it one of the best PlayStation 5 exclusives to date. Meanwhile, Elle Fanning and Troy Baker manage to steal the show – their performances alone are reason enough to play the game.

With Sonic X Shadow Generations, Shadow brings his own set of levels that can easily match the quality of Sonic's. Thanks to Shadow's many interesting superpowers, some of these levels even manage to surpass that level of quality. However, it also exposes a bigger problem within the franchise. Even the best-designed levels in the series don’t always shine due to inherently imprecise controls and mediocre camera work. As such, Sonic X Shadow Generations is an excellent celebration of everything Sonic has achieved over the years—but it also highlights what needs improvement in the future.

Raidou Remastered makes the slower, heavily outdated original a lot more accessible, allowing its atmosphere to be experienced more easily today. At the same time, it has to make significant changes to the original framework to achieve that. I’d love to see the second game get a remaster as well, but if Atlus truly wants to make the subseries relevant again, it would be better off launching an entirely new title. If Raidou Remastered has taught me anything (again), it’s that Raidou is more than worth it.

Cyberpunk 2077 is just as impressive on the Nintendo Switch 2. It includes the fantastic base game and its equally strong expansion, and it runs remarkably well. The game looks stunning — especially in handheld mode — and performs great, particularly when you enable the performance mode’s framerate boost. In handheld mode, the analog sticks lack a bit of precision, making motion controls almost essential. It's a shame you can’t dynamically switch between gamepad and mouse controls. Still, Cyberpunk 2077 is a fantastic experience that will keep you engaged for many hours in a beautifully crafted world.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma introduces unusually major changes to the Rune Factory series. At the same time, it keeps the core largely intact: you’re still doing mostly the same things as in previous titles, only this time most of the repetitive tasks are delegated to your villagers. As a result, the game can focus more on story, action, and adventure — and it works out well. It respects the player’s time better, and the improved combat systems and interesting environments do not disappoint. Not every Rune Factory fan will appreciate this direction, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s exactly what the series needed.

I find it hard to say whether Tears of the Kingdom is worth revisiting on the Switch 2 for returning players. I haven’t had that experience myself, after all. Plus, the €10 upgrade only gets you a higher resolution, HDR, and a more stable framerate — nothing that truly shakes things up functionally. That said, I do expect that almost anyone with a save file from 2023 still has plenty left to do before reaching 100%. For new players or returning Zelda fans who walked away from Breath of the Wild disappointed back then, I’d say: give it a chance. After playing Tears of the Kingdom, I’m still not entirely convinced — I’d love to see a brand-new, traditional Zelda on the Switch 2. That said, I’ve come to appreciate the direction Zelda took in 2017 a lot more now.

The heavy subject matter full of big questions, the stressful gameplay loop, and the consequences of a failed mission make The Alters far from an easy game to get through. However, it’s also one of the most original and emotionally impactful games I’ve played in a long time. On paper, a game where you survive by working together with your own clones sounds incredibly ambitious—especially for a relatively small studio in Poland. But with The Alters, 11 Bit Studios has once again delivered a fantastic, grim, and deeply engaging survival title.

FAST Fusion is a delightful racer with lightning-fast gameplay and some cool new mechanics. The game doesn’t offer a huge amount of content, but that’s perfectly fine for a price of 15 euros. Once again, FAST proves to be the ideal racer to alternate with Mario Kart. Visually, the game runs incredibly smoothly, although I do hope the image quality in handheld mode gets a bit of an upgrade through a patch.

Mario Kart World is the ultimate evolution of the series, bringing together everything that worked before into one ambitious game. Racing feels more creative than ever, and despite a few setbacks, it’s an impressive experience.

Monster Train was already brilliant, but this sequel streamlines the experience while making it fairer and more challenging. I thoroughly enjoyed the wealth of options and the constant sense of progression as you unlock new content. Every run can play out completely differently thanks to the many variables, and there’s plenty to dive into with challenge runs and other optional modes. Factions have strong synergies, and there are countless paths to success. The new art style and soundtrack are impressive, but the true star is the gameplay – a must-try for any fan of tactical games, deckbuilders, and roguelikes.

Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time feels like it was made by fans of the original with the mindset: let’s fix everything that could be improved and make what was already good even more fun. And in my opinion, Level-5 has absolutely succeeded. The game is accessible yet impressively deep. Each of the fourteen different Lives has something unique to offer, and the game is packed with fun activities, quests, and secrets to discover. Longtime fans already know that Level-5 has delivered plenty of great RPGs in the past, but I didn’t expect the leap in quality over the original to be this significant. Then again, these are the kinds of surprises we gamers live for.

Elden Ring Nightreign is a bold and surprisingly successful evolution of the Elden Ring we know. With this co-op spin-off, FromSoftware proves that the world of Elden Ring also thrives in a more social setting, without compromising on challenge or atmosphere. In fact, the presentation during certain boss fights might even surpass the original, precisely because so much attention has been paid to it. The addition of teamplay, roguelite elements, and nostalgic bosses from earlier titles results in a game that feels both familiar and refreshing.

F1 25 offers a very complete package this year. The new features are all focused on the sport itself, and Braking Point is once again exceptionally entertaining. Codemasters hasn’t changed a great deal compared to last season, but every tweak hits the mark. It’s a shame that PSVR2 owners are still being left out. With the major 2026 changes on the horizon, F1 25 is an excellent way to say goodbye to the current generation of cars.

Despite minor frustrations, *Roadcraft* manages to deliver an engaging and unique experience. By focusing more on restoring infrastructure than driving in the absence of it, there's less immediate challenge compared to its predecessors. After all, it’s less about carefully steering a massive truck up a narrow mountain trail, and more about making that mountain accessible through thoughtful planning. It’s surprisingly fun and varied work—but you do need to have patience for it.

DOOM: The Dark Ages has turned out to be an excellent shooter, even if it doesn’t quite reach the heights of DOOM: Eternal. What remains is a stellar shooter campaign that feels more like the original DOOM games, crafted by the masters of the genre. And that’s more than enough to keep me satisfied until the next installment.

Sunderfolk is a unique RPG, and not just because of how you control it. Choosing and placing attacks via your phone makes everything feel more tangible than with a controller, and it also provides more information between turns. It's built for multiplayer, so make sure to play with one or more friends to get the most out of it. The systems run deep, from building your deck and picking the best card, to making sure the Fate cards deliver the best buffs and the least harmful debuffs. Missions vary, and above all, the game looks charming and delightful, backed by a great soundtrack and, most importantly, brilliant voice acting that truly captures the feel of a Dungeons & Dragons session.

Dozens of hours later, I have to conclude that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remaster is—and remains—a fantastic game. The frustration from crashes or poor performance quickly gives way to nostalgic enjoyment. That feeling of wanting to complete just one more quest or self-imposed task still holds strong after all these years. Oblivion might not be the best game of 2025, but it will probably be the one I spend the most time with this year.

Amerzone – The Explorer’s Legacy offers a nostalgic and immersive experience. Despite some technical shortcomings and a lack of significant innovation, the game remains a visual and narrative gem. It's highly recommended for new players and fans of narrative-driven puzzle games. However, seasoned players familiar with the original might expect a bit more innovation.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a fantastic game that everyone should play. The combat is a unique combination of turn-based and real-time, while the game completely captivates you with an immersive story and interesting characters. The focus on exploration is special, but occasionally ensures that you as a player can get lost. Still, this is only a small downside in an otherwise excellent game. For me, it is the best game I have played this year so far and there is a good chance that this will not change in the coming months.

With how skeptical and disappointed I was at the announcement, I never expected to be so impressed by Arkham Shadow. It flawlessly translates the atmosphere and gameplay of the ‘flat screen’ games to the standalone VR headset. If you own a Meta Quest 3 or 3S, this is truly a must-play.

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars finally gives players access to two of the most beloved RPGs of all time once again. It’s definitely a shame that more hasn’t been done to enhance both titles, but there’s a reason why fans still regularly revisit the original games. Both games continue to impress, and every JRPG fan should have played them at least once. Fortunately, that’s now easier than ever. I can only hope that the renewed attention for the series will finally lead to a new game (and no, a mobile gacha title doesn’t count).

Assassin’s Creed Shadows presents a beautifully crafted world that is definitely worth exploring. The various activities you encounter in the world are enjoyable but could offer more variety. The story of Assassin’s Creed Shadows revolves largely around revenge and doesn’t have much depth, and in the case of Naoe, her adventure even feels incomplete by the time the credits roll. Fortunately, that doesn’t take away from the fact that Assassin’s Creed Shadows has a lot to offer. A massive number of missions, plenty of despicable people to take down, and, of course, the stunning setting more than make up for its weaker aspects. However, this Assassin’s Creed is anything but groundbreaking.

As a 'cozy game,' Wanderstop has little to offer: it's simple, shallow, and gives you little to work toward. But that’s exactly the point. Wanderstop forces both you and the burnout-recovering Alta to slow down and reflect on yourself and the life you lead. That may not sound very cozy and might even seem depressing. Yet, well-written characters and Wreden’s signature humor add a cheerful touch.

Split Fiction is a really cool co-op experience, but where I could recommend It Takes Two without hesitation, the latest game from Hazelight Studios comes with some reservations. The concept of two completely different worlds is brilliant, and the game bombards you with gameplay ideas that follow each other in quick succession. However, when you add it all up, the whole experience quickly becomes chaotic.

The foundation of Monster Hunter Wilds is rock solid. The game is smoother and more streamlined than ever. It’s also more beautiful and spectacular than any of its predecessors. On top of that, it’s incredibly accessible for new players. However, at least in its current state, it offers little resistance, meaning you’ll breeze through it – especially as a Monster Hunter veteran.

Don’t Nod has once again managed to deliver a captivating story, subtly and realistically portraying the struggles and highlights of teenage life. The switch between the two timelines adds dynamic gameplay, where your choices truly impact both the present and the past. While there are occasional awkward moments in the game, the atmosphere and experiences create a beautiful game that truly tugs at your emotions. I’m curious to see what the second part has in store for us and whether it can surpass the first.

Obsidian Entertainment has once again crafted a stunning RPG with Avowed, featuring a dynamic world that feels incredibly alive and combat that flows smoothly. Meaningful decisions are at the heart of the game, with everything reacting to your choices – whether it’s NPCs or the way the world evolves. Every aspect of the game feels carefully thought out. While the story wasn’t always equally compelling, it remained engaging enough thanks to exciting twists and tough moral choices. As a result, Avowed is a fantastic example of how a great modern open-world RPG should be designed.

Fans of the original will get more of what they know, but newcomers can also pick up Kingdom Come: Deliverance II effortlessly. It’s a wonderfully realistic RPG where countless systems seamlessly intertwine within a beautifully designed open world.

Civilization 7 is a true innovation for the 4X genre. And while many of the improvements and additions aren’t new—such as changing cultures per Age—Firaxis has perfected them. Thanks to the shorter gameplay loop and quest-based progression, the notorious late-game slog is a thing of the past. Military units have been streamlined, and city-building offers more freedom, with complex systems from previous entries wisely simplified. The biggest drawback, however, lies in the presentation: in many aspects, it falls short—so much so that it detracts from the overall experience, which is a real shame.

Nintendo has finally brought a graphically enhanced version of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD from the Wii and 3DS consoles to the Switch. The game remains of high quality even today, and the levels are still just as entertaining. This is indeed the best version of the game currently available to play. It's just unfortunate that the game is being sold at the same price as a new Nintendo game, while, apart from the graphical enhancements, it's essentially the same game that appeared on the 3DS more than ten years ago. Additionally, Tropical Freeze remains the superior Donkey Kong game available on the Switch. However, if you've never played Donkey Kong Country Returns or even tried the version on the 3DS, it can certainly be worth it.

Purists may feel let down by Dynasty Warriors Origins. Admittedly, the focus on a single character, the limited number of weapon types, and the lack of multiplayer are significant drawbacks. However, the final result more than justifies these sacrifices. With Origins, the series is finally taking steps back in the right direction (and into modernity). It boasts the most competently told story in the franchise, significantly improved gameplay, and an unprecedented sense of scale. If this is the new direction for the series as a whole, it could easily thrive for another 25 years.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle does full justice to the franchise. The game is truly packed to the brim with humor, mysteries to solve, fistfights fitting for the series, and fantastic locations to explore while unraveling the mystery of the Great Circle. For me, 2024 started with a bang with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and with Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Microsoft, Bethesda, and MachineGames are closing the year with another great game.

For a 1.0 release, Ravenswatch has just barely gotten the basics right. Fortunately, those basics are incredibly solid. The gameplay is unique for a roguelike, successfully capturing the feel of a full playthrough of an ARPG like Diablo in runs lasting just under an hour. Each of the nine playable characters features a completely different playstyle, and all of them are immensely satisfying to play. The limited number of levels and the lack of variety within them are disappointing. However, the core gameplay is so strong that it keeps you coming back—especially when playing with a group of friends.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a remarkable game, even though it has its flaws. The game is challenging and stays true to the core of the series, including its gritty survival mechanics. Despite some rough edges and technical issues, it offers an immersive experience, with a vast amount of content and an impressive open world.

Dragon Quest III HD-2D is a masterclass in how to give an old game a modern update. The stunning graphics, combined with the captivating music, create an impressive audiovisual experience. But it's mainly the gameplay improvements, the new story segments with Ortega, and the delightful feeling of exploring the world that make Dragon Quest III HD-2D capable of providing you with many dozens of hours of gameplay enjoyment. Bring on the remakes of parts one and two.