Give this one a wait and see, or a miss entirely if you're unsure because while UFC features some worthwhile improvements, it's continuously swamped by the remnants of its archaic tendencies.

KarmaZoo is here for a good time, not a long time, at least it packs some of the most fun multiplayer platforming I've experienced in recent memory.

If you’re a console-only gamer interested in JA3, now is the best time to jump into the game. If you’re a console gamer that also has a PC, I still recommend the PC version as you can enjoy the gamepad support that version has offered since launch, in addition to the PC version’s perks (mods and better graphics options). With a post-launch patch roadmap still currently underway (introducing several new quality-of-life features and new gameplay options), however, both PC and console owners will enjoy the best version of the game together, moving forward. If you’re a lover of turn-based tactical games with RPG elements, try and suppress the noise of all the triple-AAA titles and make some room in your gaming schedule for one of the best games released this year.

If you like the idea of karaoke at home, if you want to sing solo or with friends… Let’s Sing 2024 has you covered. I’m not sure of technical limitations but it would be nice to actually have some singing lessons in future editions… but for now it’s a good option for some singing parties at home!

If going under the depths of the ocean and experiencing a buried treasure is your kind of thing, then Dave The Diver delivers the goods.

Just Dance 2024 Edition ticks all the right boxes on the PS5 for dancing solo or with others.

Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope is definitely a story-heavy game. My favorite parts were the eeriness of the storyline, the dialogue (and acting) of all the characters (especially the narrator), and the twist at the end. I would have preferred more jump scares and the ability to skip through some dialogue (that was a bit slow), but overall it was an enjoyable game to play.

Certainly grab a copy if you are a fan of Middle Earth and if you like the crafting genre… or even just if you are a fan of Middle Earth, there’s more lore here to absorb whilst traveling the halls of Moria (or digging them out).

Unless you are the hardest of hardcore Hellboy fan and just have to soak up any source of story from anywhere you can… I’d give this a big miss. I’m still hoping for the day that Hellboy is picked up as an episodic show (like The Witcher), I think that would be a fantastic format to see our favourite big red hero!

Absolutely grab a copy if you are a fan of either philosophy or puzzle solving or both. Visually pleasing and mentally stimulating… a great experience to add to your collection.

Achilles: Legend Untold is filled with obvious ambitions and inspirations of a souls-like RPG, with even a few Diablo-like dungeon-crawler undertones along the way. However, the areas this game falls short in were too much to overcome.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a return to greatness and Nintendo should be commended on paying homage to the classic 2d platforming archetype but then redesigning it for the modern gamer. Best of all, no matter what your age, you’ll have a blast playing Super Mario Bros. Wonder and from the very first level to the last, you’ll be full immersed with its engaging gameplay and almost interactive artwork with its graphics. Additionally it makes for the perfect party game and local co-op is a true blast!

Jusant is a mesmerizing and almost melodic experience on the Xbox Series X and is probably the must play game of the year.

Separate Ways is easily one of the biggest budget add-on expansion packs to release this year, adding more high-quality content to the already stacked 60+ hour package of Resident Evil 4 (2023). For AUD $15, it’s honestly a no-brainer if you enjoyed the base game and want more survival-horror goodness to enjoy (and a sneak peak at where this reboot Resident Evil universe is heading).

Sonic Superstars is not without its faults; the bosses sometimes overstay their welcome, and the multiplayer feels a little underbaked in places. However, Arzest has accomplished something many Sonic fans doubted could ever be done. Successfully create a modern 2D Sonic that not only retains the feel of the MegaDrive/ Genesis originals but builds upon them in meaningful and exciting ways, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where the blue blur heads next.

Down and Out does a superb job of showing what life as a homeless person is like. It's a miserable, depressing existence you wouldn't want to inflict on your worst enemy, much like this brawler.

Overall I was very impressed with Land of the Vikings, it has a learning curve that always felt manageable without being too easy. There is enough in the game at the moment to keep you busy for a while and it may take a few restarts but once you get settled and you figure out the best way of doing things, time both in game and out will fly by. Obviously there are small issues like a few spelling mistakes and pathing issues but in the 15 hours I put into the game before writing this I never came across anything that was game breaking. The developers come across as very active and are looking at adding more content in the future.

That is the main failing of the game. It achieves nothing, it does not positively reinforce the player, it also seemingly offers no achievement or objective to obtain. If the game does not tell a story, does not educate the player in real methodology, does not reward the player in any way, then there is no point in playing it. It is such a shame, because this was a brilliant concept and had the potential to be great. We will no doubt see this game in the free-games category on steam soon enough.

Dolphin Spirit Ocean Mission is edutainment for younger gamers about saving our precious environment from rubbish and pollution that is a definitely a family friendly game.

A fun new game, three middling ones, and a fan favourite returns. It's not the life of the party, but we're glad to have it all the same.

Tenebris Pictura is a game brimming with fantastic ideas hamstrung by poor execution.

An ambitious action RPG with a unique two-world gameplay system and fun combat let down by a quagmire of ongoing technical issues.

If you like the idea of a somewhat structured building game in a primitive setting, this might be worth having a look at. It sounds nice, it looks pretty enough and it’s enjoyable enough to play… but it’s not quite as “open world” or free form as you might hope.

Trepang2 is a great mixture of horror and action. It may not be the most original idea of the year, but it certainly packs some of the best aspects of many famous shooter games into a cohesive and unique experience.

Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster brilliantly showcases Monolith Soft’s signature worldbuilding and storytelling abilities, but exhausting battles and overworld exploration also expose the originals’ age. The remaster’s improvements – despite their lackadaisical implementation – manage to at least make some of this duology’s worst aspects passable.

Borderlands 3 is a solid port over to the Nintendo Switch. What the game lacks in looks and performance, it makes up for in just about everything else.

Fate/Samurai Remnant adds another engaging title to this vibrant universe that is a very well crafted game from start to finish with strong gaming mechanics and a very engaging combat system. Further it is a living breathing world with quite a bit of attention to detail that makes exploration a treat. The game is also brought together by a very well written story with interesting characters, including real-world twists. The only downside is that it can be a little wordy at times with its visual novel implementation and at times, combat can be become a grind but fortunately the gameplay and universe more than makes up for this. Recommended.

Endless Dungeon manages to create the perfect mix of tower defense, roguelikes, and twin-stick shooter to create a deep, yet accessible adventure for the ages. One of the best co-op games of 2023.

The return of Hot Wheels has brought with it mixed results. The racing action is undeniably exciting and pulse-quickening, which correlates wonderfully with the nostalgia of using the real-life playsets, and the are plenty of models to collect that you’ll feel spoilt for choice. However, Turbocharged is weighed down by overfamiliarity, unambitious race modes, on-track frustrations, and a sense not enough has been done to evolve this sequel. On a base-level, Turbocharged is a pleasure to play, but Milestone should try to stop toying around with this franchise, it’s got the va-va-voom to be something special, but unfortunately Turbocharged isn’t quite it.

Could be one of PSVR2s best shooters, but is held back by some baffling design decisions.

Forgive Me Father is a frantic and fun horror FPS packed full of twisted enemies, inventive weapons and just enough mystery to keep you hooked.

With graphics that mirror the TV series and some of the voice actors reprising their role, there is definitely plenty to love in PAW Patrol World for the younger gamer and gamers. I actually enjoyed it far more than the latest film!

It might not reinvent the wheel, but as a successor to an already near-perfect Advance Wars-like, did it ever really need to?

Detective Pikachu Returns takes some steps back compared to its 3DS predecessor – most notably in its presentation – but retains its charming writing, beautiful worldbuilding and loveable cast of both humans and Pokémon alike.

Lords of the Fallen is a game with great potential but in its current state, it can’t be recommended; at least not on PC. Moving seamlessly between the Umbral and Axiom worlds is a unique experience tainted by poor performance, bugs, and design choices.

A routine racket of fun first-person shooter and stealth gameplay and creative heists mired by always online issues and lack of content.

Truly a contender for Game of the Year, Spider-Man 2 is a game that justifies the purchase of a PS5 if you don't already own one.

An amazing leap from NHL 23, NHL 24 boldly advances the series via new physics, presentation and overall gameplay. A must-buy for any next-gen ice-hockey aficionado.

Assassin's Creed Mirage is the game that old school fans of the series have been waiting for. By taking the action back to its roots, Ubisoft has crafted one of the most exciting entries in the long running stealth series for the best part of a decade.

The Crackpet Show is a fun game with unique ideas. It is a great choice if you want to take a break from serious games, whether you play solo or with friends. It has a charming comedy to it, and the world of the game matches the gameplay mechanics perfectly. While the game lacks enough charm to get you to play it for countless hours and the aesthetic design of levels could be better, it is still a good experience.

Lies of P is the best Soulsborne game that wasn’t made by FromSoftware. The gameplay and design of the game are great and have a little signature of their own but the density of inspiration is a bit too much. The steampunk design of the game truly fits with its story and the music helps to convey the mood but I wish the story had more depth.

Slightly better than FIFA 23, micro-transactions remain prominent in EA FC 24, also questionable computer AI. It's a beautiful, solid but not spectacular sport title.

Smurfs Kart is a fun game for younger players that will keep them engaged, particularly when playing with their friends and family. The race mechanics (while basic) mirrors Mario Kart which isn’t bad and although it doesn’t offer anything new in terms of karting, it is a sturdy yet fun race through the world of The Smurfs which is never a bad thing.

Featuring excellently paced turn based combat and a memorable story taking place in a beautiful, interactive world to explore – Sea of Stars is a dream come true for 90’s RPG fans, RPG fans, and fans of great video games.

If you're looking for a magical farming sim that does most things right, this is it.

Unmatched cinematic story mode and core fighting gameplay mechanics marred by baffling content and feature exclusions.

Overall… if you are interested in the idea of boxercise but can’t afford a gym membership or are perhaps a bit self conscious, I think this would be a fantastic option.

Ultimately this is a collection for those who enjoy a bit of retro gaming. If you are looking for deep strategy and high fidelity graphics and sound… well any disappointment is on you for looking at a collection of classic arcade games to find that. But for those of us who grew up with arcades as a large part of our world of entertainment… this might just cause the odd pang of sentimentality. How many of the games you like will likely determine how good the value is… as I said, I’m a big fan of The New Zealand Story so it’s a pretty good collection just for that one (though liking a few more of the games does help to justify the pricetag).

Is it worth the price tag? That's a tough one. If you've enjoyed the previous game/s and you don't have any in your collection at the moment... it is a good way to have that classic game with the addition of some extra modes if you want to try those too.

Ultimately… if you like the Tell Tale style choose your own adventure games and don’t mind a theme of music/singing/classical mythology in a modern world… then grab a copy. If you are a huge musical theatre fan then, no question… grab a copy. For the rest of us who can take or leave musicals… maybe have a closer look at some gameplay footage first before deciding if it’s something you want to immerse yourself in.

If you were a fan of Privateer grab a copy. If you just like the idea of an open world space flight game with aspects of role playing grab a copy… if you might be… maybe wait for a sale then grab a copy.

Paired with the 2.0 Update, Phantom Liberty elevates a good game to a pretty good game. And while its bugs and oddities keep it in the shadow of The Witcher 3, Phantom Liberty offers the best storyline in Night City.

Gunbrella is a superb neo-noir thriller that will have you floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee.

After plundering into its depths though, Motorfest loses traction due to its dogged determination to provide excess over a properly immersive racing game experience that makes the most of the Oahu Hawaii setting.

Significantly more playable, accessible, and appealing than NBA 2K23, this is a fantastic basketball title that finally tried to do something different and mainly succeeds.

The best and most content-rich way to experience the modern Hitman trilogy for newcomers and long-time franchise fans alike.

Baldur's Gate III scratches the D&D itch with near perfect precision. It'll have you coming back for more every time!

If you have the time to spare, Starfield is a worthy investment into another gaming universe that delivers a truly immersive experience.

While the story could have been fleshed out more, and the interactivity needs a lot of improvement, it doesn't change the fact that Anonymous Code is one of the few visual novels that display a significant amount of effort.

Bomb Rush Cyberfunk is the Jet Set Radio successor we have all been waiting far too long for.

Armored Core VI is a highly enjoyable game, especially for mecha heads and sci-fi fanatics. While I wish the story got a lot more attention, the game does a great job of reintroducing old fans while not alienating new players.

Miraculously Blasphemous 2 manages to top it's predecessor in almost every meaningful way.

Samba De Amigo: Party Central is an addictive and incredibly fun rhythm game and an even better party game.

A stellar debut with intriguing story, beautiful visual style and satisfying action RPG combat systems.

Under the Waves on the XSX is a very unique and emotional experience that may not be for everyone, especially if you have just lost a friend or loved one. While the game will only be played once due to the content, it is quite a unique and memorable title that successfully addresses how grief is handled with the backdrop of a very component game set deep under the sea. All in all, the developers should be commended on this beautiful game that really sets itself from other titles at the moment on this next-gen console. Beautifully moving and haunting.

Blue Wednesday is a beautiful game that anyone struggling with their lives in their 20s should play.

Any gamer 15+ will have an utter ball and I do thoroughly recommend this title. There is nothing quite like it on the Switch and it is so massive and so well thought out you’ll be playing it for ages. The main title is so huge that Undead Nightmare was fun but just a small blip on this amazing games radar.

Absolutely highly recommend. If you were a fan of the originals… jump in without fear of being disappointed. If you are new to CRPGs, grab a copy and start here… it’s layered but you can explore at your own pace and learn as you go… easy to start, not too tricky to “master”… or at least manage.

Dave The Diver is a true indie gem. The story acts as the glue that holds things together while most of the weight of the game is on the shoulders of gameplay mechanics that are gradually added, new areas that are unlocked in each chapter of the story, and new weapons and equipment that can be found in boxes scattered in the Blue Hole. This game is a simple delight like a cup of coffee in the morning or an ice cream in the summer heat; its true value is felt only when you taste it yourself.

Exceptional stealth-based strategy gameplay with fun characters, colourful visuals and an emphasis on playing your way in your own time.

In the end Dust & Neon feels like a bunch of great ideas and mechanics that don’t quite push the roguelike genre in any innovating direction. That’s not to say it isn’t fun though as its fast-paced run and gun gameplay always entertains. I just wish there was more variety in the weapons and missions, and a richer story wouldn’t hurt either. The potential for an even more impressive sequel feels very likely if the interest is there and I, for one, am interested enough to see one.

If you like the general style of first person shooters but feel they need a bit of a fresh change… this will likely be just what you are looking for. A lot of fun and a beautiful spectacle to take in. Highly recommended!

Sprawl is a fun shooter but don't expect a good story or replayability value in it.

More of a rehashed Madden 23, Madden 24’s new additions do little to move the chains. Old hiccups return, new ones introduced, and it remains a title best suited for hardcore players.

The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood is an amazing visual novel that will leave you with some existential questions to ponder.

After all these years, Red Dead Redemption is still a great game that offers players a highly engaging gameplay experience. However, the PS4 port isn't something that can easily be recommended to those who've already played the game.

If you are into shooters and want to see how it is done perfectly, then you really can’t go past the Quake 2 Remaster. It is just so good.

Ghost Song is a decent Metroidvania that avoids feeling derivative thanks to some great world-building and engaging risk Vs reward combat systems. While its Soulslike elements can make the game feel punishing for the sake of it at times, this is somewhat alleviated by the explorer mode that makes it play more like a challenging but traditional Metroidvania.

Tiny Thor is a well put together game and those looking for something with a challenge will of course enjoy this title. The challenge is hard but fair and the difficulty curve does not spike too rapidly. There are also accessibility options available for those that require this, which is always a positive in my book. Finally to answer my statement from the start after playing this title I can say this game was left in the oven for the perfect amount of time.

I enjoyed my time with Atlas Fallen and developers Deck13 Interactive positively created their own interpretation of a unique RPG. Sure it has parallels to what makes an RPG an RPG but its overall gameplay and combat is like an alternate Marvel Universe timeline that feels familiar yet different as well.

Double Dragon Gaiden is another solid addition to a year of excellent brawlers.

In the end, Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm channels its inner Legend of Zelda (quite well) and if you don’t own a Nintendo Switch, this game is a satisfying clone on the Xbox Series X for next-gen gamers looking for a similar experience. All in all, a decent game from start to finish with a running time of 20 hours, unless you become more engaged in side quests and of course Arcadian Tarock. Recommended.

Disney illusion Island is an absolute success and a worthy addition to your gaming library.

Rift Apart is a gorgeous game with great gameplay and fantastic story that suffers from unpolished PC port that results to constant frame drops throughout the game.

Mr. Run and Jump is a fantastic 2D platformer whose level design makes the most out of the two actions in its title. The challenges the game presents will be most enjoyable to veterans of the genre, but the solid aesthetics, music and assistance options do enough to also entertain newcomers.

A must-play turn-based tactics combat simulator elevated by memorable characters, over-the-top action and deep RPG elements.

Ultimately it is an impressive achievement from what seems to be essentially a one person developer (I say seems to be as I assume there were at least some other people helping with the voices). Is it fun… yes it certainly can be. Is it inconsistent in art style… absolutely. Is it worth buying… I’m honestly not sure. I completed the game in a bit over 6 hours… there might be some other choices I could make on the way… but it didn’t feel like they would make that much of a difference. If you can find it on a decent discount then perhaps grab a copy… otherwise keep track of the progress as there may be some updates to tackle some of the issues otherwise… maybe give it a miss.

Overall, it’s a visually striking game and I was quite mesmerized by the world you get to play in. Because the story really didn’t grab me I wasn’t super fussed about the disparity in the music options and instead took it as a chance to enjoy some tracks I am familiar with along with possibly finding some new artists to do a deep dive into later (which may be somewhat the intent of the variety on offer). If you like rhythm games and don’t mind a broad range of songs then you may just enjoy jumping in your ship and boosting your way around the neon tracks of Invector: Rhythm Galaxy.

Mega City Police is a fun, addictive, and beautiful shooter with an isometric camera and 80s sci-fi aesthetics. Everything designed in this game is a love letter to the 80s and it was done beautifully as well. I really wished the game was longer and there was some narrative motivation, but apart from that, this game was a blast.

Pikmin 4 is, to put it simply, Pikmin at its best.

Synapse is a superb shooter that uses the PSVR2s capabilities to the fullest extent possible.

Little Friends: Puppy Island certainly has lots of adorable dogs to care for, but sadly spends way too much of its playtime having the player repetitively walk them through boring and visually unappealing areas.

While not without its faults, Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE is still a highly enjoyable and ambitious game. It isn't a game I’d recommend to everyone, but it at least provides an engaging experience for mystery and Danganronpa fans alike.

Is it worth the purchase? Well if you don’t have any Sonic games and either want to see what it’s all about, or relive past glories… then certainly grab a copy. If you bought last years Sonic Origins then just have a look at what the differences are and determine if Plus really adds enough for you to fork out for it. But it’s nice to be able to share some of my childhood with my children in a pretty decent modern remastered collection such as this.

A missed opportunity given a second chance or something that should have stayed dead? American Hero is FMV choose your own adventure with bad acting and horrible writing. It's either so bad it's good or it's just bad.

Would I recommend Killer Frequency? Yep… even if you aren’t really a horror fan (like me)… this isn’t really the adrenaline pumping stuff… it’s far more the “horror comedy” style and those semi cartoon style visuals do help take some of the edge off the tension. It’s not a bad price but replay value isn’t super high (unless you want to mess with the callers and find out what their fate is like if you choose different options). A fun game with an interesting style, grab it if you like your puzzle solving with some retro radio vibes.

While some of the elements of the game don't carry over well for modern players, Atelier Marie Remake: The Alchemist of Salburg is an excellent remake of a great game.

Homeseek is a punishingly bleak post-apocalyptic city builder where every action feels consequential.