Monster Hunter Rise is a brilliant addition to the Monster Hunter lineup. It delivers incredible combat with newly added monsters and highly-desired mobility. However, it does suffer from messy systems, a mediocre story and can become quite grindy. Despite these flaws though, I have had countless hours of fun and will continue to do so. The co-op aspect just adds even more enjoyment to an already enjoyable game. I just wish the system UI had been redone for PC.

Cyberpunk 2077 has something special deep inside it, but its ambition falls short, leading to consistent issues that hinder the game's positives. Some areas hit where it should for an RPG, but the lack of meaningful choices make the main and optional quests feel hollow. Maybe with bug fixes and content updates, we will see the true potential of Night City.

The multiplayer action of Chivalry 2 has depth, replayability and, most importantly, it's fun. Torn Banner Studios have built upon the success of the original to create a game that could have a lasting impact on the gaming landscape. However, there is a distinct lack of variety in other modes and many key features are missing in regards to quality of life and accessibility. Modern multiplayer games are an everchanging experience, regular support and updates is a promise that the developers need to keep. Perhaps in a few months, the game will be in a better state with the inclusion of new modes, added customization and a greater parity between platforms.

I believe that if anyone is looking for a challenging experience, then Death Howl is the game for them. I sadly didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped, but it did leave me with a lot of respect for the game. It has a clear identity, strong art style, and a combat system that'll really click for players who enjoy the grind. Like most souls-likes, I can see myself coming back to Death Howl when I'm in need of a mountain to climb.

Hogwarts Legacy is littered with small niggles which, when stacked together, make the game feel like it was released over a decade ago. While the castle is a large enough area to explore, the monotony of repeating quests and tasks makes the game feel last-generation and boring over time. Hogwarts Legacy could already use some DLC's in order to expand the size of the world, add more complex spells, and introduce a wider array of enemies. If you are a power-nerd looking for a new and complete RPG, you will have to wait for Star Wars: Jedi Survivor, coming in April 2023. While most critics agree that Hogwarts Legacy is near perfect, due to the incomplete feeling of the game and lack of a solid story arc, it feels more Muggle than magic.

Unpacking is not a game for everyone, but the people it appeals to will fall in love with it. The game has its own unique charm, and players will find themselves breezing through the whole thing before they know it. However, that does mean the game is way shorter than it should be. With only 8 levels, they definitely could have made it to at least 13-15. The beautiful pixel art enhances the game's aesthetic, though certain items don't translate as well, leading to some confusion.

Betrayal At Club Low does a great job at providing a new take in the point-and-click adventure genre. Being able to choose your own methods of resolving the situation is fun and gives the player a sense of control. Failure is rarely permanent, and you can always keep trying until you succeed. There isn’t much in terms of replay value unless you are someone who aims for 100% completion. It’s a nice game for 2-3 hours, but you are likely not revisiting the game for anything remarkable later.

This triple pack of Atelier games will offer any fans of the series exactly what they're looking for, though they aren't the best starting point for a newcomer. In the time since their original release, the games have only gotten older, and poor load times and occasional framerate issues are something they really shouldn't suffer from. Still, these are cosy, quiet, heartfelt, and imaginative games, and it is nice to see them back.

FAR: Lone Sail could have been great. The game nails the emotional attachment to your vessel, creating a neat gameplay loop, combined with lovely art design and a beautiful soundtrack. However, the constant need to stop, combined with simple puzzles and conveying a dying world we can’t interact with created a dissonance which meant that attachment doesn’t extend to the world itself. It was enjoyable but not overly memorable.

NEO: The World Ends with You hits the highest of highs, but has its fair share of lows. At its best, it's a worthy follow-up to one of the 2000's most beloved RPGs. With style to spare, engaging gameplay, huge replayability and a strong plot, there's plenty to love with Rindo's trip to the Reaper's Game. Yet, we can't ignore the sheer tedium the game constantly displays, especially towards its back half. Repetitive missions, damage sponge enemies that are often stronger than bosses and an obnoxious time travel mechanic all bog down what could have been one of the best games of the year. If you're a longtime fan of the original, playing this is a no brainer. If this is your first time in Shibuya, you're better off catching up and keeping your expectations tempered.

Alisa: Developer's Cut is an amazing homage to the roots of the Resident Evil franchise. Recreating the feeling to a near-perfect T. However, emulating a game from the '90s so closely means it comes with all the problems from games of the time. Big fans of the genre will definitely enjoy their time, but casual horror fans may struggle to get invested.

Genesis Noir is a shooting star – an engrossing, mind-blowing marvel in the moment, but its glitter does fade away, and its story does not necessarily stir the soul. The interactive sections of the game gave slices of ingenuity in the storytelling of its world but ultimately lets down its fantastic visual presentation. Still, the ambitious and creative forces that banded together to create such a rich experience are worthy of admiration. If you enjoy artsy games with a whole lot of flair, the game is worth checking out for its style alone.

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes stands strong as a dynamic take on the world of Three Houses however the repetitive gameplay and padded stories leave a challenge to even complete the game without using broken characters. The visuals can be very pleasing but the environments always feel the exact same. This also goes for the character interactions, which are dry as they will often repeat dialogue or say things unrelated to the story. Overall a fun interesting time is still to be had but only in short bursts. Fans of Three Houses will love this game but others will be left confused and bored.

Overall, Monster Camp is a great dating sim to play with friends. It doesn't do a lot to separate itself for the previous game and those who aren't fans of the humour will have a hard time enjoying it. That being said, it's a solid game that's made better by its style, writing and great characters. Those looking for something a bit different in the genre, take a chance with Monster Camp.

Just like farming itself, Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin can feel like a laborious game of highs and lows, but the rewards are there for those willing to put in the time and work. It’s unique blending of different gameplay styles results in a memorable balance between thoughtful farming and mindless action, but I wish some more effort was made to have the two meet in the middle. With that said, Sakuna delighted with its entertaining characters, stylistic flair, and ambition to experiment with creative ideas.

WWE 2K25 is far from a perfect game. 2K and Visual Concepts continue to get more ambitious with each passing year. And while that's certainly commendable, WWE 2K25 is a great showcase for the flaws in that mindset. The core of the game they're building on needs serious work, and several modes need a lot more TLC than a few updates a year. However, there is plenty of fun to be had here, and players can definitely make the game last until next March.

Blood West is a perfectly standard take on the western horror genre, offering new monsters, takes on firearms, and the aspect of being part of the undead. Will you be able to free the land from the evil curses brought on by the settlers? or will you become just another vengeful spirit roaming these hardened lands, a ghost of the past. Either way its up to you to decide with your knife, bow, and plenty of fire power to settle the wild west!

Should you be looking for a "Best of" collection of Mario Party goodness, Superstars should be your go-to. Though its flaws are pretty apparent, those keen on rose-tinted perceptions will find a lot to like with the newest iteration. Even those simply in need of some fun with a group of friends will have a good time with what's on offer, so long as it's local multiplayer and not online. It's a nice callback to the brighter days of the franchise, complete with a lot of trinkets from the past. May not be kind to solo players, however.

Dry Drowning delivers the right mood in an atmospheric detective visual novel. It highlights nail-biting player choices that brilliantly impact the story and gameplay. Dry Drowning wraps up an interesting story with various elements, pushing art and sound to elevate the mood of the narrative. All these features work hard to deliver, but despite its strong character, a clunky UI and difficult text throw a wrench in this visual novel experience.

UFC 5 officially marks the UFC franchise joining the ranks of every other sports game in 2023. Like a dog that is repeatedly fed the same meal everyday, this game's player base is forced to settle for a play experience that is virtually similar to UFC 4. Using a new graphical engine to release the same game from 3 years ago but with the number 5 on the cover this time feels a lot like putting a hat on a hat. This is a lateral movement for the series, which to be fair, is better than a step back.

Intelligent Systems have come close to perfecting the look and tone of Paper Mario with The Origami King, but at the cost of landing on a gameplay identity that encapsulates the series' legacy while providing fun innovations to the formula. As such, this game falls below the plethora of first-party Switch games that have taken their series to new heights, but that doesn't mean it's a soggy, crumbled piece of paper either. Paper Mario: The Origami King is a hilarious, dazzling joy ride, that frustratingly doesn't solve all of the issues from recent entries.

With my disappointment in Half-Genie Hero in the foreground, it's a bit easier to enjoy Shantae and the Seven Sirens's good points in relation to its abundantly minor issues. Controls are fantastic, the pacing is solid, and it harkens back (somewhat) to what made Pirate's Curse so beloved. Some may decry its simple difficulty, but for me, so long as the journey is immersive, other aspects can be excused. Neither a perfect game or a perfect Shantae game, Seven Sirens has enough magic to make it a welcome addition to a franchise with a bountiful future ahead of it.

Ultimately, Time Loader is a beautiful-looking, wonderful-sounding game, with some fun gameplay. It's let down by a story that focuses on a character without making them engaging, the lack of challenge that comes with the puzzles, and everything being in service of the game's least engaging aspect. It is unfortunately quite a short game as well. My initial run-through clocked in at about 2.6 hours. So a recommendation here is really based on what you want for your money. If you're fine with slightly un-challenging, hand-holdy at times gameplay and a story that looks pretty but doesn't go anywhere, pick it up! If you want a little more bang for your buck, maybe wait it out to see if Flazm adds anything interesting. Honestly, this game has a lot of potential to be good, if they just rework the story and maybe add some challenge levels.

Wreckfest is a promising title from Bugbear, which fills the gap left by dormant vehicular combat franchises such as Burnout. PS5 upgrades mainly come in the form of beautiful visual improvements, including a sharp 4K resolution and creative implementation of the DualSense's features. The game will be a blast for PS5 players who are jumping into it for the first time, but owners of the last-gen version might find the upgrade a little wanting.

Neo Geo Pocket Color Selection Volume 1 is a mixed bag of nostalgia. As a groundbreaking piece of hardware at the time of release, I’d highly recommend SNK fans to check this out. As games, time has taken its toll on most of them. Ranging from solid to nearly unplayable, these games hit the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Fighting fans or those who want to carry a fun golf title around will be satisfied with their purchase. Retro RPG players will find something to love here too. If you want that Metal Slug fix, you’re better off looking elsewhere. Overall, the selection is a strong start. With some key titles missing, a second go-around with included improvements will be a welcomed addition when it eventually releases.

Life is Strange: True Colors has received DLC in the form of Wavelengths which, as this review reveals, is a calm yet enjoyable slice-of-life experience that focuses on Steph Gringrich. If pretending to be a DJ and finding out more about the folks of Haven intrigues you, Wavelengths is the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.

This is absolutely a quality game, you won't miss your $20, but is it high art to be revered among the greats? Probably not. It's a fun, stylized roguelike with just enough variety to get by, but lacks the substance it needs to make a lasting impression. Most will probably get about 25 hours out of it and move on to something else. Great value for the price, but likely not something you'll come back to time and again.

Cuddly Forest Friends is a delightfully cozy experience with many adorable moments to be had. The animals are quite charming, the minigames are pretty enjoyable, and combined with the darling cutscenes all make for a snug time. Although, because of the high pricing, lack of difficulty, and repetitive gameplay, I can't recommend it to anyone but younger audiences or casual players.

Batboy attempts to mimic the success of other retro-styled action platformers like Shovel Knight, The Messenger, and Shantae. Unfortunately, it is a flawed game that is marred by numerous game breaking technical bugs, wildly sporadic difficulty, and uneven mechanics. There are elements of a good game here, and some may be able to look past its problems. However, if you are looking for a polished and satisfying adventure, it is look elsewhere.

Warhammer 40k Rogue Trader is an excellent title for those looking to dabble their strategic toes into an ocean of lore. Mixing different factions from the franchise with a deep character customization menu creates a fulfilling and immersive experience. It may be difficult to get into at first, but with enough time and reading you'll be commanding the battlefield like a champion of the God Emperor himself!

Although Rogues Heroes is another Zelda-esque dungeon crawler, it sets itself apart with its numerous class options, captivating environments, and addictive gameplay! The game has bugs and glitches, which can be annoying, especially in co-op mode. Nonetheless, it offers an entertaining adventure you won’t want to miss!

Tacoma is a really good story wrapped up in a simple walking simulator. Engaging with the AR segments and exploring the station was enjoyable; the information presented was mostly interesting, while the voice acting was excellent. In terms of actual gameplay, it's sadly lacking and the investigation feature is its' saving grace. There are some minigames thrown in, but very little else. Coupled with (this reviewer) several game crashes, this definitely dampened the experience. I would say it is worth making the trip once. Make sure to play this in one sitting.

While it is its own vibrant and enjoyable game, Spray Paint Simulator feels extremely similar to Powerwash Simulator. The levels and equipment are fairly basic, and I feel as though there was missed potential for more creative and novel ideas linked to the spray painting theme. However despite its flaws, Spray Paint Simulator is still a solid addition to the simulator genre. The mindless and satisfying gameplay is ideal for switching off and zoning out, perfect for those moments when you're looking for a game which doesn't need you to pay to attention to cutscenes or puzzle solving.

Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral town is a fun time sink, but for a near full price game, sticks a little too close to its base game from more than 15 years ago. It has a great progression system that is still haunted by old traditions of ridiculously obtuse unlock conditions for certain features. If you have a reliable guide, you’re going to have a pretty good time, but the necessity of one really hampers the laid back, casual vibe of the game. If you’ve been a fan of the series for a while or are interested in the new features like gay marriage, then give it a try. Everyone else may want to wait for a price drop.

I apologize if this review sounded somewhat nitpicky. I'm only this strict because Battle Network is a series that is near and dear to me, one that I played a lot in my youth, and I want it to be the best that it could be, such that other people can come to love Battle Network as much as I do. If Capcom had taken the proper steps to modernize these games, then they could be masterpieces, but if you have the patience to deal with their quirks and archaic mechanics, then the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection will offer you 100+ hours of JRPG goodness, and it will not disappoint.

The Necromancer’s Tale provides a different CRPG experience that focuses on the detective aspects. It’s a good twist on the genre but it may not be for everyone. Other than the gameplay, nothing stands out but it’s great if you want a different experience.

The Lake House was a pretty big letdown overall. It simply did not succeed at anything it set out to do. It was not a thrilling or scary journey through a labyrinth. It wasn't a thrilling expansion of the world of the Remedy Connected Universe. Nor was it an effective teaser for Control 2. Instead, it was a largely boring side chapter that you can easily skim over.

ITT-A good time. Bullet hell is not a hard genre to screw up, but even those versed in this type of gameplay will find some enjoyable qualities to indulge in. If only the focus on the personal aspect of the game's roots had more prominence throughout, which could've pushed this game's impact to rare heights. Nevertheless, the core aspects of ITTA are more than enough to give it the credit it deserves.

METAL SUITS: Counter-attack provides a fun fast-paced platforming experience that tests your reflexes. Running through levels with various suits and finding all the collectibles is enjoyable. It doesn't improve or change much of the platforming experience and will mostly appeal to people who want more platforming.

Remnant: From the Ashes is a brilliant game that will undoubtedly satisfy the masochistic urges of all those Souls-Like (really can't apologise enough) fanatics out there that need their next fix of brutal punishment in the form of a video game. The game is let down by a few minor faults and won't provide the same amount of gameplay that the majority of Souls games deliver to players, but the positives of this game far outweigh its negatives and the ability to replay it and take it on with friends negate the admittedly short standard campaign time.

Ultimately, Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town feels like a missed opportunity in a pretty package. The crafting system is a good idea but the actual execution was a misstep, causing the entire experience to suffer as a result. Of course, one could play this game almost in passing, making small progress and just reveling in the world, happy with the slow but steady impact they make on those around them. But, you'd have to decide for yourself if that's the true point of a farming simulator, anyway.

There’s something to be said of Sable’s casual, meditative charm and truly enchanting presentation. Unfortunately, however, it can occasionally feel empty and remains fraught with technical errors and performance issues. Hopefully, there'll be a bug-fixing patch on the horizon. Otherwise, Sable's fresh, intriguing world and solid mechanics could be overshadowed by its assortment of glitches.

Skygard Arena is thoughtful, punishing, and rewarding once the systems click. Its status-driven tactics and persona/relic builds offer genuine depth, especially for players coming from tactics or MOBA backgrounds. For newcomers, early campaign spikes and limited sustain options make the first hours rougher than they need to be. With improved onboarding and a touch more access to healing/cleansing in story missions, Skygard Arena could be an easy recommendation across the board.

Tinytopia is the sort of game that I'd have my children play if they were interested in architecture or UFOs. They'd have a great time, but it's not something that will hold my attention beyond the time spent together. The absurdities are the game's strength, but it's ultimately held back by dull scenarios and poorly handled interface mechanics. You'll have a super cute time playing, but I can't promise it will last very long.

In the medley of action-adventure games, Kena: Bridge of Spirits stands out with its soundtrack, unbeatable graphics, and creative storyline. It’s a fantastic first impression of Ember Lab’s game-developing skills. A few kinks need fixing, but that shouldn’t deter you from playing the game!

I knew nothing about Ninja JaJaMaru going in, but I came out pleasantly surprised. It's a simple and solidly built 8-bit throwback with a lot of content for retro fanatics to sink their teeth into. It might be a bit too simple for some people's tastes, but if you want dumb fun ninja action, than this is a strong recommendation. If JaJamaru ever makes another return, I will be interested to see it, whatever form that might take.

Although Land of the Vikings provides a relatively fresh setting in the city-building simulation genre, the lack of content after you pass through the first winter might prove to be unsettling, as with the frustrating Tree of Life system where some basic mechanics are locked behind, particularly the Auto Assign mechanic. Still, if you're looking to relax and throw down some hours into a city/village-building simulation game, Land of the Vikings is adequate to fulfill your spare time.

Overall, Call of the Elder Gods is a good time for any fans of cosmic Lovecraftian tales and Puzzle solving. The characters are entertaining and the environments you visit are pretty. Yes, outside of the puzzles the gameplay turns into a walking sim, but it doesn't hurt the game too much for it to be an enjoyable experience.

Twelve Minutes has great potential as a high concept thriller with its stellar technical design, critically acclaimed cast and initially organic gameplay, but ultimately its narrative direction and pacing leaves a lot to be desired.

A Little to the Left is a clever and creative puzzle game which looks at the everyday in a unique way. Although to begin with solutions feel random, once you come to terms with the game's logic things soon slide into place. Easy controls and a relaxed approach to level progression make A Little to the Left perfect for a cosy blanket day, an atmosphere which is enhanced with the gentle audio and charming illustrations.

Wavetale provides a cozy, enjoyable ride of exploration and puzzle solving. The story is one big side quest, but its subtext is well written - global warming, industrialism and the hubris of humanity. Gameplay is fluid and enjoyable with an excellent soundtrack and decent voice acting. Screen tearing and audio glitches distract but ultimately do not deter me from recommending this as a decent weekend getaway.

Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life is clearly the definitive version of the classic title. This remaster adds many much needed quality-of-life fixes to the 2003 game, from the updated UI to the remastered graphics. This time around it is much more approachable, enjoyable, and the focus on relationships makes the experience stand out among the sea of farming games. However, these improvements can only do so much because the remaster fails to address the underlying problems of the original game. The long, slow days eventually blur together as the lack of strong side activities and festivals hamper the end result.

EA Sports FC 24 gets the job done. It delivers a familiar 'FIFA' style game with its own few touches here and there. Fans who have grown accustomed to this formula will be satisfied as it stays true to what makes these games special. Ultimately, EA FC 24's most popular game mode 'Ultimate Team' is what truly makes or breaks a game. So far with Evolutions, it seems promising. However, it is not until EA begin to release content throughout the year that we will be able to reach a proper verdict regarding this game mode's full effectiveness. With Pro Clubs, Career Mode, and even Kick-Off seeming solid, it's safe to say this is a football game that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy playing. (Except for when you rage playing UT Champions of course).

A fancy title must always be attached to a fancy game. Evan's Remains has a certain quality of intrigue to it that is evident from first glance. Gorgeous pixel detail, an isolated environment, and a keen focus on human psychology and heart. Suffering from some issues with landing the endpoint and gameplay prowess, it will inevitably be a selective title for many, notably those with the mindset that story always goes before gameplay. But for those looking for a thought-provoking, immersive game that costs less than a standard theater ticket, the search for Evan is definitely filling in those aspects.

I can highly recommend Not Another Weekend to anyone who A) enjoys retro-style Point and Click Adventures, B) has fond memories of the 1980s and C) wants to play something genuinely funny. It would be harder to recommend it to anyone who would answer ‘no’ to any of those questions.

Dying Light Platinum Edition carries its plentiful DLC and flawed base game into an overly expensive package. The amount of content might justify the cost, but its problems and age make it hard to justify spending the money on a six-year-old game. Regardless, zombie fans will be delighted to check it out as they prepare for the sequel releasing later in the year, but you might want to wait for a sale.

Gunboat God gives you an action-packed game that tests your reflexes and incentivizes you to practice your skills. With several enemy variations and level objectives, there's plenty to do as you master your use of the gunboat. Unfortunately there's nothing but gunboat combat and high scores that keeps you playing. It's great for anyone looking for a good action platformer but just wants the action.

Some witty comedy and decent design definitely make it worth playing but when it comes down to the pure Souls-like gameplay, The Last Hero of Nostalgaia doesn't stand above average. All of the Souls-like stuff is there: weapon variety, stat leveling, losing your currency upon death, resetting enemy positions when resting. But when it comes to the core gameplay, it feels off. Animations feel slow and sluggish.

Ghostwire: Tokyo is an interesting new mix of horror 'shooter' with excellent enemy design and aesthetics, but relies strongly on its eastern thematic to stay interesting past a certain playtime. However, despite the repetition, it does it's best to offer enough to keep players invested and interested enough with its variety and story, especially if you have even a slight interest in Japan or its vast mythology.

Yuppie Psycho is a shining example of the brilliance in indie horror. In a time where every big indie horror property seems progressively more marketed to children, the unapologetic R rating is a refreshing change of pace. An interesting story, likable characters, and the lack of a reliance on a gameplay gimmick or main marketable antagonist make it clear that the developers truly cared and believed about the game they were making, and it shows. That being said, the game too closely homages horror games of old to the detriment of the experience.

House Flipper 2 is a great installment in the ever-expanding genre of games all about doing chores we play games to avoid doing. It serves as a great creative outlet for people who love interior design, and to help people discover their love of it. However, it's not for everyone. And I can easily see some people getting bored with the admittedly repetitive experience rather quickly.

Loretta has a great story which has you follow a villain protagonist with the titular character. While not as intense as being an accomplice to the crime, you control how Loretta acts after her husband’s death. Controlling the story and seeing Loretta deal with the consequences makes you want to see what happens next. It’s a shame that unnecessary puzzles disrupt the story and take away from the game’s strengths, or this could be a game to remember.

Carrion sticks to its guns and nails the landing when it comes to its simple premise as a reverse horror game. It falls short on its lack of intuitive direction and inconsistencies with its puzzles. At times it can be tedious, but overall it is fun. If you need a smaller experience that has a unique perspective to the genre for an interesting experience then look no further to Phobia Game Studio's latest release.

With weak exploration which tends towards being more tedious, and even exhausting, combat which trips over itself to constantly interrupt the player, and an overall feeling of awkwardness in the presentation, getting through The Thaumaturge's low moments can be a real struggle. However, on the other side is a compelling and interesting political slow burn which weaves the role of magic and Thaumaturgy into real historical scheming, even if that means the more interesting aspects of the world take a backseat. This is alongside an engaging core combat loop and some excellent creature designs. If you can stomach the slow start and are willing to play into the game's more obtuse aspects, particularly the walls of emotive text, The Thaumaturge is sure to be another exciting CRPG for you.

MindSeize will certainly scratch the itch if you’re in the market for a decent Metroidvania game with a focus on challenging combat and enjoyable exploration. While somewhat marred by a clichéd and clumsily-executed story and some occasionally-frustrating gameplay moments, it’s nonetheless a solid offering with beautiful visuals that will appeal to fans of the classics.

Monster Sanctuary is a genuinely impressive Monster Collect-a-thon, offering far more customization and tactical variety than its competitors. All other aspects of the title fall spectacularly short, however. The story is abysmal, the environments have nothing interesting to discover, the Metroidvania elements are incredibly basic, and the level design lacks any notable features. If you’re here for the monster battling, you are likely to have a lot of fun with Monster Sanctuary.

There's nothing wrong with Potion Craft. It's fun, it's chill, but it leaves me feeling like it's missing something. It feels less like a full game and more like a mechanic in search of a game. I can imagine a different game that incorporates Potion Craft as a part of it, maybe something like The Witcher with this game as an optional way to craft and sell potions. But without a story and with such monotonous graphics and music, it's hard to think of this as much more than a short diversion. If you're okay with that, there's definitely fun to be had. But if you're looking for more, well, this might be the wrong brew for you.

DARQ: The Complete Edition is the perfect way to play this 2019 hit. With upgraded load times, an improved frame rate and the two packaged DLC levels, if you haven’t yet tried this melancholic puzzler, now is the time. Where the game falters in narrative building and sound design, it makes up for in snappy, addictive gameplay and an art style to both adore and be disturbed by.

Rise of the Triad: Ludicrous Edition adds plenty of new levels and features, but the root problems remain: the cryptic and maze-like level design coupled with the repetitive game play lead to an acquired taste. While it's nice to have full compatibility with modern systems and online multiplayer for goofing off with friends, there's only so much the developers can do to restore a dated experience. While this is clearly a great purchase for fans of Rise of the Triad and people who like older shooters, I'm hesitant to recommend it.

Hyperdimension Neptunia: Sisters VS Sisters won't scratch the itch if you're looking for the AAA experience, but it stays in its lane and plays to the strengths of the series. Fans will not be disappointed, while newcomers might balk at some of its shortcomings. Nevertheless, this game is put together well and offers hours of enjoyment that will not tax your mind with heavy plots and mechanics.

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide transfers the fluid and dynamic horde-based co-op gun and blade combat from Fatshark's critically-acclaimed Vermintide series into the sci-fi/gothic setting of the 41st millennium. Unfortunately, said combat is the brightest diamond among this rough, as the technical issues, unremarkable story, and lazy design choices greatly weigh down on the experience more than its positives can uplift it.

A positive outlook on life provides a positive experience. Izzy’s emotional journey is worth exploring to see what happened next. The use of the journal made the emotional twists land. The Land of Estoria is a pleasant albeit safe environment, possibly mirroring Izzy’s mental state. The gameplay is straightforward, pleasant to explore despite an occasional lagging camera. Could there have been better variety here? Sure, but story is the focus here, with a nice art style and enjoyable music & voice acting to accompany it.

I don't know what it is with me and towers, but Tokoyo is the third game in a row with a tower in it that I've reviewed. Alright, fine, down to business. Should you buy Tokoyo? Maybe. What will decide it is how important story is to you and your tolerance level for pandering. From a gameplay perspective, Tokoyo is solid, even fun sometimes. There's some interesting ideas and I really liked the design. But, I'm not going to keep playing it now that the review is done. If you do decide to buy it, I suggest getting the Steam version. The Switch release is only available in certain countries, and the Steam one has a bunch of extra features.

I fear my childhood has prevented me from giving Nebuchadnezzar a fair chance. It was never going to meet my expectations because I was holding it up to a level of quality that few have been able to match in the past 20 years. This isn't a bad game; it just not one that you'll remember in a year, forget a decade. So instead of recommending this, I recommend you instead spend half as much and buy Pharoah instead.

Moons Of Darsalon can be a fantastic game at times. Offering a fresh spin on a subgenera that often times feels stale and unenjoyable. However there are times that it can fall prey to the same troubles that other similar games have. With the AI being brain dead to the point that it makes the game unplayable. And the challenges on some levels feeling a step too far too soon. And the decision to include AI-Art when they already had decent artwork made will never stop feeling odd to me.

Despite some issues, Spellcaster University is a fun, casual and unique experience that is worth trying for fans of its many genres. However, I could not help but feel that the small studio spread itself thin by mashing together different mechanics. As Sneaky Yak Studio will continue the active development of Spellcaster University for the foreseeable future, they will hopefully solve some of the issues that bring down an otherwise good debut game.

Floodland gives you a great survival challenge where you have limited resources to rebuild society. You are taught what to do from the beginning, and will slowly learn how to take care of your people. The difficulty can be punishing and some game concepts aren’t properly explained, forcing you to learn by experience. But if you stick with the learning process, you will find a nice survival gem that teaches you about the challenges of rebuilding civilization.

Maiden of the Black Water is a game that I would recommend to any fan of the genre. While the awkward controls and deadpan voice acting may detract from the experience, the world building and design are second to none.

Long-time Pokemon fans that don't mind the repetitive nature of these games will have a lot to look forward to here. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl is by no means a bad Pokemon game. It's competently developed, but some of the decisions made prevent this entry in the franchise from standing out. The lack of changes from the original titles further bogs down this otherwise solid addition.

Bounty Star does a decent job of mixing mech combat with base management. You slowly build stronger mechs while earning money and starting a farm. Objectives can be unclear and farming doesn't feel as integrated as advertised. It's a decent game with good fundamentals but the farming aspect may disappoint you.

Atomic Heart offers great graphics and enjoyable combat. While the weapon variety is moderate and the story predictable with some cheesy dialogue, the game excels in providing enjoyable character upgrades. Though it may not fully live up to the initial hype, it remains a decent choice for players craving an immersive dystopian game with an incredible soundtrack.

Deck of Haunts provides a solid deckbuilding roguelite experience combined with horror you inflict. It's fun to come up with ways to prevent intruders from reaching the heart of your haunted house. There are some balance issues and that does make the experience feel repetitive quickly. But for a solid roguelite deckbuilder, Deck of Haunts delivers a successful twist on a familiar formula.

The Eternal Castle [REMASTERED] obviously comes from a place of great passion and love for the games and era that inspires it. Its art style masterfully uses the CGA colour pallet and its animations are smooth and characterful. However the core gameplay whilst solid on its own is often defeated by its art style. Often obscuring key details and progression paths making it overly hard to see where you are supposed to be going or what is hidden in the dark. Plus the game's fonts whilst great to look at can be difficult to read and can rob the play of vital information and backstory the game needs.

Long-time Pokemon fans that don't mind the repetitive nature of these games will have a lot to look forward to here. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl is by no means a bad Pokemon game. It's competently developed, but some of the decisions made prevent this entry in the franchise from standing out. The lack of changes from the original titles further bogs down this otherwise solid addition.

Ultimately, They Always Run has a lot going on for it. Its combat mechanics are delightfully complex enough to provide satisfying gameplay, and its gorgeous aesthetics make every second screenshot-worthy. However, the numerous bugs, uninspired platforming and lacklustre story make for a frustrating experience. The combat and art may make these worth it, but a couple of major patches would make the game much more enjoyable.

I loved my time with the collection, getting to know Ryu and the world of Ninja Gaiden. Reviewing the games at face value is impossible knowing that the game is simply a port to modern consoles and whilst the varied ways to now play these three fantastic games should be celebrated, their age shows dramatically at times and the collection is a missed opportunity to revitalise the series, it appears as a cash-grab rather than a celebration of what made these games fantastic. Newcomers, I recommend playing these games, but if you have a PS3 lying around, I'd play these games on that and save yourself £30.

Garden Story is a very charming game to look at but, unfortunately, is not very fun to play. It often feels too slow for an action game and doesn't reward the player enough for their time. I did enjoy how it portrays its themes of communities coming together and the story of a rising hero, as well as its music and art style. If there is ever another chapter to this garden story, I will be interested in seeing how the gameplay improves.

It seems absurd to complain about a lack of content in a game that has an endless amount of player-created levels. But for Meet Your Maker, it fits very well. This could be an amazing game, but the limited set of tools available at launch restricts the amount of fun that can be had by both raiders and builders. I'm sure it will be awesome in a year from now, however. With more content and tools, only then will Meet Your Maker truly shine.

Outer Terror is a fantastic homage to pulp horror with some strong points in review. The gameplay is largely enjoyable and there some great quality levels and synergy between the game, missions, and side quests. However with a little more to do on each level the game could be great, but at the moment, it often feels like you’re just running back and forth.

Tour de France 2023 is polished enough to stand out in the sports simulation category, and it comes with some much-needed improvements over last year. However, the game is a bit too pricey for the changes alone, and it feels almost like its predecessor. Overall, it's a fun experience, but you'll be disappointed if you're looking for some major overhauls.

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes is the perfect game to curl up with this Halloween if you are looking for a scary game to play alone or with friends. However, there are too many stretches where you can put the controller down and forget it is a game at all. For anyone who enjoyed previous titles from Supermassive Games, House of Ashes is more of the same.

It's an inspired folk horror experience. Whilst it's a bit clunky in its mechanics surrounding combat, it’s still brimming with the surreal and the mythological and, above all, is presented with impeccable style and heart.

Backbone seduces you into its world with its incredible style and characters. I was shocked by the game's first major twist and didn't want to stop playing. The writing is a highlight, and the music is dazzling. I was a bit let down to discover that my choices had little impact on the game's narrative, and the conclusion left me with more questions than answers. I don't know if a sequel is on the horizon, but Backbone is an overall interesting game worth checking out.

The Forest Quartet is a musical narrative game which bends its puzzles with its great atmosphere. The game is a visual and atmospheric treat, while it may lack in terms of its gameplay with its simple puzzles. The game, on the whole, themes itself really well across the various stages to have a breezy and fun experience through its short run time.

The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition is the best way to experience your adventure on Halcyon. For new players who haven’t touched the game, there’s a good time to be had. A solid storyline, fun combat, and freely building your character's proficiencies. For veterans, the only real draws are increased character customisation and a better looking Halcyon. Even then, it's unlikely that there would be much to do after completing the game. It’s not the strong draw to bring you back that it could have been.

The Last Faith does not pretend to overcome its prior inspirations but impeccably attains a satisfying length and experience. It carefully adopts classic sensations, covering players in some of the genre's finest moments. Thus, in a gaming landscape inundated with overly ambitious Metroidvanias featuring ambitious maps, this game's convincing approach makes it an exciting challenge to complete at least once and a fair experience with increased difficulty for those who seek tougher battles after the initial completion.

With a little extra attention, Before We Leave could probably turn into a much larger, more sophisticated game. The foundation is strong enough for that to happen with minimal effort, but I don't think that's what the developers had in mind, and truthfully, I don't have a problem with that.

GYLT offers an emotional insight into the impact bullying can have on a child using thought provoking art to convey concepts of loneliness, anger and paranoia. This well crafted story links well with the simple gameplay mechanics, with an artstyle that fits the creepy atmosphere created through the soundtrack. All of this and an environment which urges you to explore in spite of the sparse selection of meaningful items to be found, GYLT is perfect for a horror fan looking for a more mellow game, and would work well as a first-time spooky experience.