The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales certainly lives up to its name, offering an enchanting interlude—reminiscent of the finest fairy tales—amidst the myriad titles released this year. Once again, Square Enix proves it has a gold mine in the HD-2D style, an art direction that stands as one of the most influential creations of recent years. Here, the ever-helpful Elliot takes center stage in an adventure that is both classic and nostalgic, yet above all, remarkably executed and told. Certain moments truly stand out, thanks primarily to the high quality of the writing—whether in the main storyline or the side quests. This is precisely where the Square Enix title might surprise and move you, just as it did me, from start to finish.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales certainly lives up to its name, offering an enchanting interlude—reminiscent of the finest fairy tales—amidst the myriad titles released this year. Once again, Square Enix proves it has a gold mine in the HD-2D style, an art direction that stands as one of the most influential creations of recent years. Here, the ever-helpful Elliot takes center stage in an adventure that is both classic and nostalgic, yet above all, remarkably executed and told. Certain moments truly stand out, thanks primarily to the high quality of the writing—whether in the main storyline or the side quests. This is precisely where the Square Enix title might surprise and move you, just as it did me, from start to finish.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales certainly lives up to its name, offering an enchanting interlude—reminiscent of the finest fairy tales—amidst the myriad titles released this year. Once again, Square Enix proves it has a gold mine in the HD-2D style, an art direction that stands as one of the most influential creations of recent years. Here, the ever-helpful Elliot takes center stage in an adventure that is both classic and nostalgic, yet above all, remarkably executed and told. Certain moments truly stand out, thanks primarily to the high quality of the writing—whether in the main storyline or the side quests. This is precisely where the Square Enix title might surprise and move you, just as it did me, from start to finish.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales certainly lives up to its name, offering an enchanting interlude—reminiscent of the finest fairy tales—amidst the myriad titles released this year. Once again, Square Enix proves it has a gold mine in the HD-2D style, an art direction that stands as one of the most influential creations of recent years. Here, the ever-helpful Elliot takes center stage in an adventure that is both classic and nostalgic, yet above all, remarkably executed and told. Certain moments truly stand out, thanks primarily to the high quality of the writing—whether in the main storyline or the side quests. This is precisely where the Square Enix title might surprise and move you, just as it did me, from start to finish.

Five months after the release of Final Fantasy VII Remake, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth replicates its predecessor's feat on the Nintendo Switch 2. This achievement is all the more impressive given that we are talking about an open-world adventure—a title with a far more ambitious scope than its more linear predecessor. Beyond some visible graphical compromises and a frame rate locked at 30 frames per second, the verdict is clear: *Final Fantasy VII Rebirth* runs smoothly and stably on the Nintendo Switch 2, making it arguably the best way to experience the game on the go. It is, therefore, the perfect opportunity to discover—or rediscover—this second installment of the Final Fantasy VII remake saga before its conclusion, which appears to be just around the corner.

Ultimately, 007 First Light does not transcend its status as a mainstream adaptation, yet it clearly delivers on its promise. The title rigorously adheres to a well-paced script, dazzles us with its visuals, and entertains us with its sharp dialogue. Naturally, for a modern video game, we would have liked to see a bit more creative flair in terms of gameplay and a little more mechanical depth. One could legitimately criticize it for being overly linear, but in reality, we readily forgive its shortcomings. Above all, we remember having had an excellent time with controller in hand—much like watching a good 007 movie. And truly, that is neither more nor less than what we asked of it.

Ultimately, Yoshi & The Mysterious Book is a title akin to those lovely picture books one takes pleasure in leafing through. You savor every page of the opening chapters, marveling at the illustrations and finding a certain delight in unearthing hidden secrets. Yet, as you read on, the formula becomes predictable. The story and mechanics begin to repeat themselves, and what started as a delightful surprise gradually transforms into mere routine. You emerge from the experience with that peculiar sensation of having just closed a beautiful volume—one that is gentle and comforting. It is a creative, engaging book—accessible to all—bearing the inimitable signature of Nintendo. It is a pity, however, that the narrative style is a bit too linear and subdued to make you want to read it cover-to-cover in a single sitting.

LEGO Batman: The Legacy of the Dark Knight therefore perfectly achieves its goal: to serve as the culmination of everything great about Batman. It refines the gameplay of the Arkham series, packs in references to the best Batman films, and ties it all together within the playful LEGO universe. The title even affords itself the luxury of being fully playable in co-op and proves incredibly generous, featuring an open world brimming with content. This makes it the most ambitious LEGO game ever released—and perhaps even the best; dare we say it! However, this standard LEGO game formula also constitutes its biggest flaw, due to levels that are far too conventional, predictable, and repetitive—especially when playing solo. If you are a Batman fan—whether you plan to tackle the adventure in co-op or gift it to a child—it’s a resounding yes. But for those awaiting a true successor to the Batman Arkham games, this serves as a fun way to pass the time, though you’d be better off waiting to see what Rocksteady has in store for the future.

LEGO Batman: The Legacy of the Dark Knight therefore perfectly achieves its goal: to serve as the culmination of everything great about Batman. It refines the gameplay of the Arkham series, packs in references to the best Batman films, and ties it all together within the playful LEGO universe. The title even affords itself the luxury of being fully playable in co-op and proves incredibly generous, featuring an open world brimming with content. This makes it the most ambitious LEGO game ever released—and perhaps even the best; dare we say it! However, this standard LEGO game formula also constitutes its biggest flaw, due to levels that are far too conventional, predictable, and repetitive—especially when playing solo. If you are a Batman fan—whether you plan to tackle the adventure in co-op or gift it to a child—it’s a resounding yes. But for those awaiting a true successor to the Batman Arkham games, this serves as a fun way to pass the time, though you’d be better off waiting to see what Rocksteady has in store for the future.

LEGO Batman: The Legacy of the Dark Knight therefore perfectly achieves its goal: to serve as the culmination of everything great about Batman. It refines the gameplay of the Arkham series, packs in references to the best Batman films, and ties it all together within the playful LEGO universe. The title even affords itself the luxury of being fully playable in co-op and proves incredibly generous, featuring an open world brimming with content. This makes it the most ambitious LEGO game ever released—and perhaps even the best; dare we say it! However, this standard LEGO game formula also constitutes its biggest flaw, due to levels that are far too conventional, predictable, and repetitive—especially when playing solo. If you are a Batman fan—whether you plan to tackle the adventure in co-op or gift it to a child—it’s a resounding yes. But for those awaiting a true successor to the Batman Arkham games, this serves as a fun way to pass the time, though you’d be better off waiting to see what Rocksteady has in store for the future.

The king of open-world motoring is in sixth gear in the Land of the Rising Sun! The Japanese edition of the Horizon festival respects tradition while embracing modernity. Forza Horizon 6 slightly revises its progression system and adds fun "Rush" events to its engine. With even more advanced customization options, players have everything they need to bring their wildest ideas to life. Huge in content, graphically stunning, fluid, and rich in its open world, Playground Games' title sets the bar at the summit of Mount Fuji. This isn't just an exceptional Forza Horizon: it's simply the best.

Brilliant, irreverent, and visually stunning, Mixtape is a sensory masterpiece—an absolute must-play for anyone who has ever been 17 and felt the urge to remake the world with headphones on. Beethoven & Dinosaur demonstrates boundless creativity in bringing this musical journey to life, led by an utterly endearing trio. A pantheon-worthy entry in narrative gaming that strikes right at the heart.

Saros is not merely a successor to Returnal; it is its raw evolution. By placing projectile absorption at the very heart of the game, Housemarque delivers a visceral shooter where aggression is rewarded. While the roguelite elements occasionally lack variety—and a touch of wildness—in their arsenal, the utilization of the PS5’s DualSense controller offers an unparalleled dopamine hit. More accessible yet still demanding, it is an unmissable gem for fans of the genre—a shooter without equal.

Tomodachi Life expects nothing more from us than that we peck at it like a small box of nuggets. It is the side dish you order at a fast-food joint when you still have a bit of a craving after the burger. Unfortunately, you realize far too late that the employee forgot to include said burger in the order (you know exactly what I’m talking about). You will, therefore, have to make do with this little appetizer. The additions introduced in the 3DS installment are welcome; the customization is fabulous, and the Mii editor stands as a classic in its own right. However, Tomodachi Life: A Dream Life is no masterpiece of the life-simulation genre. That said, it is probably the funniest entry in the genre. If you are looking for a title to sink hundreds of hours into, you might find the island to be rather deserted. But if you need to see your boss dressed in an egg costume every now and then just to take your mind off your overdue emails, then the experience is well worth checking out.

Ultimately, Pragmata is a title that still bears the scars of a complex development process—one that forced the teams to make difficult choices, particularly regarding its structure. To avoid compromising the core experience, it feels as though Capcom opted to keep things simple—a choice that is often the most sensible one. While perhaps unsurprising in this regard, Pragmata more than makes up for it with its gameplay—which is exhilarating from start to finish and constantly refreshed by regular new additions—as well as through the story it weaves around its two central characters and their intertwined destinies. Dense, spectacular, and deeply moving, Pragmata stands as the perfect example of the kind of tightly focused game we wish we encountered more often—a stark contrast to other titles that aim for sheer excess. Short yet intense, Pragmata serves as yet another testament to Capcom’s mastery in delivering finely tuned productions that send shivers down your spine.

Ultimately, Pragmata is a title that still bears the scars of a complex development process—one that forced the teams to make difficult choices, particularly regarding its structure. To avoid compromising the core experience, it feels as though Capcom opted to keep things simple—a choice that is often the most sensible one. While perhaps unsurprising in this regard, Pragmata more than makes up for it with its gameplay—which is exhilarating from start to finish and constantly refreshed by regular new additions—as well as through the story it weaves around its two central characters and their intertwined destinies. Dense, spectacular, and deeply moving, Pragmata stands as the perfect example of the kind of tightly focused game we wish we encountered more often—a stark contrast to other titles that aim for sheer excess. Short yet intense, Pragmata serves as yet another testament to Capcom’s mastery in delivering finely tuned productions that send shivers down your spine.

Ultimately, Pragmata is a title that still bears the scars of a complex development process—one that forced the teams to make difficult choices, particularly regarding its structure. To avoid compromising the core experience, it feels as though Capcom opted to keep things simple—a choice that is often the most sensible one. While perhaps unsurprising in this regard, Pragmata more than makes up for it with its gameplay—which is exhilarating from start to finish and constantly refreshed by regular new additions—as well as through the story it weaves around its two central characters and their intertwined destinies. Dense, spectacular, and deeply moving, Pragmata stands as the perfect example of the kind of tightly focused game we wish we encountered more often—a stark contrast to other titles that aim for sheer excess. Short yet intense, Pragmata serves as yet another testament to Capcom’s mastery in delivering finely tuned productions that send shivers down your spine.

Darwin’s Paradox is a game with many strengths. Its technical execution, art direction, and overall production values ​​are impressive—especially given the sheer ambition it displays. The concept of playing as an octopus in a cinematic-style platformer-stealth game is excellent and well-executed, following in the footsteps of the studio’s key inspirations: Limbo and Little Nightmares. What’s more, it is far more warm and inviting than its predecessors! That said, Poulpy’s quest ultimately falls short: the gameplay never really takes off and can quickly become tedious. It just goes to show that Darwin’s Paradox can sometimes work in reverse.

It is difficult to write a comprehensive review when the game’s greatest strengths revolve around surprise. Yet with *Super Mario Bros. Wonder*, Nintendo delivers a near-perfect performance. Nearly fifteen years after New Super Mario Bros. Wii, this new installment sees the 2D platforming series return to a level of true excellence. While remaining faithful to its roots—preserving its devilishly simple yet effective gameplay—it introduces fresh ideas that hit the mark perfectly. The entire presentation evokes a musical, constantly dazzling the player in both form and substance. Mario has truly ventured into a wonderland—and we have gone right along with him.

Solasta 2 is a role-playing game brimming with promise—potential just waiting to be realized—though bringing it to fruition will require time: both development time and playtime, in the hope of fulfilling the dreams of Dungeons & Dragons and RPG fans alike. More linear than other titles in the genre, it leverages its original setting, its fidelity to D&D, and its tactical combat as its true strengths. Unfortunately, the lack of freedom, the still-limited playtime, and the bugs encountered serve as reminders of its current state: that of an Early Access title. While awaiting the 1.0 release, this title from Tactical Adventures remains a passion project well worth keeping a close eye on. [Early Access Score = 70]

EX Voto 1348 is an experience that leaves a bitter taste—that of a missed opportunity. While one is initially captivated by its Tuscan panoramas and carried along by a voice cast of rare authenticity, the title crumbles the moment you scratch beneath the surface. Between its expressionless faces, game-breaking bugs, and a linear structure desperately devoid of any environmental storytelling, the journey is cut short. Where benchmarks like *A Plague Tale* or *Blasphemous* succeed in making their medieval worlds feel tangible and oppressive, this title settles for the bare minimum. Despite the passion of its voice actors, the overall offering—whether in terms of technical execution, immersion, or gameplay—unfortunately remains insufficient.

It is impossible to fault Crimson Desert for the sheer generosity it displays. Yet, by pushing this dial too far, Pearl Abyss finds itself ensnared by its own ambitions. The result is a stark disconnect between the technical and immersive qualities of its world and the actual content within it. The storyline leaves one feeling almost entirely indifferent; quests follow one another, largely indistinguishable in their structure; and boss battles—at times approachable, at others absurdly difficult—often force us to repeat the same routine ad nauseam. Fortunately, the gameplay—despite its minor flaws—constantly evolves, infusing the adventure with a cathartic, stress-relieving energy—something absolutely essential to help digest the puzzles devised by the development team. Inconsistent—much like the rest of the game—these puzzles nevertheless have the merit of bringing players together and fostering a genuine sense of community engagement. Add to this an astronomical amount of content—enough to make any completionist’s eyes light up—and you end up with a title that will keep your mind occupied for hundreds of hours. Yes, the journey is enjoyable, exotic, and even stimulating from time to time; yet, Crimson Desert ultimately lacked the structural fortitude to support the lofty pedestal upon which it was placed.

Marathon is a radical proposition (you either love it or hate it), and if you have nothing against its unforgiving PvP and art direction, then I highly recommend it. The art direction, the atmosphere, the demanding nature of the game captivated me. I was completely absorbed on the planet Tau Ceti IV, displaying heightened vigilance against other Runners, fascinated by the universe Bungie has created. The creators of Halo and Destiny have put their FPS expertise to work in service of an excellent extraction shooter.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection shows us that the spin-off series has truly come into its own, as the adventure proves remarkably solid, fully embracing the strategic identity of the spin-off series. Behind an initial approach that can be a little disorienting, its combat system and the management of Monsties reveal a thrilling depth, driven by an optimization logic faithful to the Monster Hunter DNA. It's not all perfect—some areas lack balance, the side quests remain quite conventional, and the plot sometimes struggles to maintain momentum—but the essential element lies elsewhere. With this third installment, the Stories formula matures and offers a dense, demanding, and surprisingly engaging adventure, provided you're willing to play by its rules.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection shows us that the spin-off series has truly come into its own, as the adventure proves remarkably solid, fully embracing the strategic identity of the spin-off series. Behind an initial approach that can be a little disorienting, its combat system and the management of Monsties reveal a thrilling depth, driven by an optimization logic faithful to the Monster Hunter DNA. It's not all perfect—some areas lack balance, the side quests remain quite conventional, and the plot sometimes struggles to maintain momentum—but the essential element lies elsewhere. With this third installment, the Stories formula matures and offers a dense, demanding, and surprisingly engaging adventure, provided you're willing to play by its rules.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection shows us that the spin-off series has truly come into its own, as the adventure proves remarkably solid, fully embracing the strategic identity of the spin-off series. Behind an initial approach that can be a little disorienting, its combat system and the management of Monsties reveal a thrilling depth, driven by an optimization logic faithful to the Monster Hunter DNA. It's not all perfect—some areas lack balance, the side quests remain quite conventional, and the plot sometimes struggles to maintain momentum—but the essential element lies elsewhere. With this third installment, the Stories formula matures and offers a dense, demanding, and surprisingly engaging adventure, provided you're willing to play by its rules.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection shows us that the spin-off series has truly come into its own, as the adventure proves remarkably solid, fully embracing the strategic identity of the spin-off series. Behind an initial approach that can be a little disorienting, its combat system and the management of Monsties reveal a thrilling depth, driven by an optimization logic faithful to the Monster Hunter DNA. It's not all perfect—some areas lack balance, the side quests remain quite conventional, and the plot sometimes struggles to maintain momentum—but the essential element lies elsewhere. With this third installment, the Stories formula matures and offers a dense, demanding, and surprisingly engaging adventure, provided you're willing to play by its rules.

The Pokémon Company may have arrived after the peak of popularity for life simulations like Animal Crossing and Minecraft-like games, but that doesn't stop them from delivering a near-flawless, cozy experience, driven by Omega Force's expertise. Ingenious, rich, touching, funny, addictive, and, above all, respectful of the saga, Pokopia is the Pokémon video game the Nintendo Switch 2 needed, and it couldn't have dreamed of a better production.