The bottom line is, I definitely think Lake: Season's Greetings is worth getting, especially if you loved the original game and want more. This is also an ideal game to get for Christmas, if you're looking to get into the spirit of the holiday. There isn't any new gameplay, but the fact that you get more of what made Lake so great in the first place is all you can really want. Playing as Thomas Weiss instead of Meredith didn't feel weird at all, and he quickly became a well-liked character. The new characters are great to watch as well, and the originals. There are a few teething technical problems, but nothing game-breaking and nothing that will stop you enjoying this extra festive slice of Lake.

Spellbound Survivor is a great idea rolled into a new form, presenting the player with five maps, and multiple characters to choose from. As a stand alone title, it'll have you coming back for the entertaining gameplay, and constant upgrading. that being said, if you're a gamer who enjoys story and substance, then this may not be the title for you. It is a perfect down the middle of the road title that could be your next favorite, or something you blow through in under an hour! No matter how you choose to play, the road to the overlord awaits.

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.

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.

Risk of Rain Returns is a faithful and well-made remake of the original game, retaining the original's fun and challenging gameplay as well as adding new content to keep things fresh. The new characters and alternate skills are particularly welcome additions. Whether you've played the original, started with the sequel, or are getting into this series for the first time, Risk of Rain Returns will provide plenty of enjoyment.

Overall, Astral Ascent hits the mark in basically every single category that matters. Truly dynamic combat that requires you to strategically plan your attacks and dodges is very well-implemented. As a result, the importance of movement in this game is further elevated by just how smooth the game feels to play. This is all without mentioning the incredible boss fights, engaging upgrade systems, amazing ambience and atmosphere, and magical art-style and soundtrack. You can tell that the developers were not only passionate, but also dedicated in delivering a polished finished product - which they successfully achieved.

Cuisineer doesn't bring anything new to the table, but it blends restaurant management and dungeon exploration well. Balancing both gameplay aspects and seeing your efforts pay off is rewarding. The visuals look great and the food images make your mouth water. There are some gameplay aspects that could use better explanation, but that doesn't detract from the game's strengths too much. You can spend hours making your restaurant better and you wouldn't notice the time go by.

Laika: Aged Through Blood is a experience that every gamer should try. The hand drawn visuals and classical guitar bring the wasteland to life, while the unique controls and progressive difficulty keep the pace of the game from stalling out. The motorbike combat and exploration is fun and approachable, but takes time to master as you explore what's left of the world. While there are a few minor annoyances with the bosses and systems, Laika: Aged Through Blood is a stand-out title and I highly recommend it.

Overall, Strike Force Heroes is a great game for anyone whose interested in a class flash game experience in the current year. With most of the old flash library removed from the internet after the browser based services stopped supporting them, these are the few titles we get left. As a member of the survivors, its nice to see Strike Force Heroes riding so high on its throne!

Insomniac once again delivers an authentic Spider-Man experience with Spider-Man 2. With improvements across the board from previous installments and an expanded New York City to explore, any Spidey fan will enjoy this game. Even if you are not a fan or haven't played the previous games, Spider-Man 2 brings an amazing open-world experience that can make anyone a fan of Peter and Miles.

Headbangers: Rhythm Royale is a refreshing addition to the battle royale genre. Bringing bright and goofy vibes, Headbangers is ideal for someone with a taste for rhythm games and is looking to embrace multiplayer chaos. Although the core mechanics of each mini-game are essentially the same, they have been implemented in a variety of creative and silly ways. That being said, hopefully future updates to the in-game season pass will bring additions to the level roster to avoid gameplay becoming too repetitive.

Afterdream tells a poignant story which explores the dark aspects of grief. Feelings of blame, depression and loss of identity in the face of deep personal loss are emphasised using various visual effects. Afterdream is a psychological horror which may not strike fear into your heart, but will leaving you thinking about life, death and the in-between. The story is a little on the short side and left me with a longing for another hour or so. However, Afterdream is well written, and the gameplay is simple enough to allow you to soak in the melancholic atmosphere and ponder the narrative at your own pace.

Overall, Slay The Princess is a groundbreaking indie horror game. Choose-your-adventures often share the flaw of pointless choices and straight storylines, but Slay The Princess offers a unique story in a way that a choice-driven narrative should be played. With great characters and stunning visuals, it's important to detail how Black Tabby Games ensures a captivating narrative as well. This is a game you could play for hours and still discovers new scenes. A game that deserves to be played.

Thank you for your cooperation Teyon, in delivering an awesome game. RoboCop: Rogue City is basically as good as it gets when it comes to licensed games. The bar for licensed games is normally set low, particularly by stuff like the recent King Kong and Lord of the Rings games, but RoboCop effortlessly shoots towards the stars like an OCP spacecraft. It's a shooter that delivers great, mindless fun, but, much like the first movie itself, has tons of hidden depth. In the immortal words of Bixby Snyder, "I'd buy that for a dollar"! And you should too!

I must say that Black Skylands is a rather fantastic indie-game. Whilst I do have some issues with aspects of the gameplay I do feel that the core of it is a ton of fun. The ground sections are great and offer a decent challenge. And when the ship combat works it can be a really unique experience. And with a memorable and well written story there is much to enjoy. Even I do feel the ship controls could be better.

Jusant is a welcome and new experience: an action/adventure game without combat and a platformer without death-inducing falls. Still, Jusant captures the intensity of high-elevation rock climbing and the wonder of exploring a strange world. The gameplay, sound design, and aesthetic will capture you for the brisk 6 hour runtime and will leave you wanting more.

Park Beyond is one of the best theme park simulators I have played. It does miss some features I would have liked to see, such as theme park minigames and a more on-ground experience, but what it does is done well. The coaster-building systems are great, and the business management systems have a lot of depth. The price is a little steep, but I definitely recommend getting the game whenever it is on sale. It might even be a great game on the Steam Deck if compatible.

While the story is best left unexplained and experienced first-hand, Amanda the Adventurer utilises a clever blend of real-life found footage and basic animation to create an uncomfortable atmosphere. Pairing this with the twisting of children's TV tropes and the positive way they are presented, I was genuinely left unnerved and awkwardly laughing in places. Amanda the Adventurer's broken-up storytelling leaves blanks to be filled, which encourages you to play through again to try things differently and find new information. Most importantly to note is that this is not a children's game.

Ghostrunner 2 is an upgraded sequel with several gameplay elements that make it deserve that number on the title. It has been increased in difficulty and the new narrative elements are also highly appreciated. For the most part, it has been expanded and improved compared to the first game. Even with the few tweaks the game still needs to stand out from other titles, it is as great and epic than its predecessor.

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.

Silent Hope is a dungeon crawler where you take your time as you learn how to utilise seven heroes. With a variety of playstyles and skills available to you, you will slowly fight your way through the dungeon. Patience is the name of the game because it will get repetitive even with the variety to stave it off. You must grind your way towards stronger characters and equipment. But if you give the game a chance, there's a solid dungeon crawler that can keep you entertained for hours.

Humanity is a very complex thing to define. Everyone has their own take on what it means to be human, but my personal take is that it involves living as your own individual being, striving to be your true, best self, not merely wanting to be a parasite or a carbon copy of someone else. Under this definition that I've pulled out of my ass, CRYMACHINA isn't very human, or very good. I wanted to like CRYMACHINA, I really did, but like some busted DIY project, none of it's various parts come together to form a cohesive whole.

Forgive Me Father 2 is an amazing experience for anyone looking to get into the horror first person shooter genre. Being a take on world war one's traumas, you'll be thrown into the depths of asylums, trenches, and strange manors uncovering the horrors of yourself. As a sequel title it improves greatly on the graphics and gunplay of the previous game while offering new and unique weapons for your person enjoyment! Make sure to keep your audio on, as the killer soundtrack will have you coming back time and time again!

Pixel Ripped 1995 is on of those VR titles that actually feel like a game instead of something you play in an arcade fashion or a workout game. It does rely heavily on the nostalgia but it does it in a superb way, and it can be a great, immersive experience. If you are looking at a sitting-down, not-too-challenging, not-too-easy experience with some great humor and funny characters, give this one a try. But just like the original scored with us, this is a superb VR experience.

Touhou New World is a chill gaming adventure through the mystical realm of Gensokyo. It's got a pretty good soundtrack that aids you on your adventures and battles throughout the game. The game is laid-back and includes loads of missions and side quest. There's a lot of unique ways to customize your character and build stats. Just keep your cool when you hit a rough patch with some levels due to some of them being a bit challenging. If you're all about that haptic feedback, this game might not hit the spot. Hardcore gamers might find it a bit mellow compared to the grand RPGs or high-intensity action games.

Hearts Of Iron IV: Arms Against Tyranny is a solid DLC. Adding a great slice of new content that more than just adds in a couple new focus trees and a crowbarred in mechanic like the previous one. The new focus trees are by and large great even if some feel a tad under cooked. However the arms trade system isn't as powerful as it should be. But the other additions almost make up for that.

MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries - The Dragon's Gambit is an alright DLC. It's easy to hop into and takes place in a unique period of Battletech lore. It also provides a challenge to MechWarrior veterans. But it is just more of the same game. There is very little that makes this DLC feel different from the base game, and I do not believe it is worth the current asking price.

This recent iteration of Lords of the Fallen has finally achieved what the original couldn't do back in 2014: it has carved itself a unique place in the Soulslike genre where it can belong, allowing it stand confidently beside its inspirations. By refining the traditional Dark Souls style to a finely honed edge and combining it with some compelling lore, a fascinating world and the absolute marvel that is the Umbral realm system, Lords of the Fallen adds another notch to 2023's superb line-up of games. If you're okay with a somewhat obtuse narrative structure and the fact that it is certainly one of the easier Souslikes, Lords of the Fallen is a must-play title for anybody interested in a great Souslike set in a beautifully grim fantasy land.

Lost Awakening is a point-and-click adventure game which asks the question...what would it be like to play a dream or a drug trip? And it completely commits to this idea for good and bad. The trippy visuals, along with the deadpan humour, carry the short game through once it hooks you. It is a short, simple and memorable experience. However, this recommendation is keeping in the fact said is an acquired taste and is not for everyone.

In terms of a DLC, High on Knife delivers exactly what it should. It gives you more of what made the main game good with some new things to keep it fresh. Any praise it deserves is earned more from the fundamentals of the main game rather than its own thing. It brings the same level of humor as the base game which is impressive considering they lacked the team head. With around five hours of gameplay, High on Knife is a great little chunk of High on Life goofiness.

All-in-all, Home Chef Hustle Stuff marks a triumphant return for Stuff Packs in The Sims 4. I used the words "slightly undercooked" in the title for a reason, and that's because I felt that there could have been a few extra CAS items and objects. There are also a few minor bugs I encountered. On the whole though, this is a good Stuff Pack. If you like cooking and want to profit from it without having to buy a restaurant, plus have the advantage of working from home, then Home Chef Hustle is the ideal Stuff Pack.

All in all I think the game is a fun experience and full of action. The amount of heists leaves some to be desired but hopefully more will be added as updates come along. The launch weekend was pretty rough with some bad server issues but are gone as of now. The competitive price as well as fantastic gameplay, customization and graphics make this a worthwhile title for those into shooter like games. The several approaches of each heist really make for a pleasant experience as well. It helps to keep from being linear and boring as many different outcomes can occur.

AK-Xolotl is a silly concept which achieves its goal of replayability and cuteness while being accessible to those new to the roguelite genre. A solid original soundtrack backs up the repetitive yet effective gameplay, with a bloody and sweet visual style. Although it may look like a simple 2D shooter, AK-Xolotl crams alottle of mechanics into its multi-terrain dungeon sprawling gameplay.

Assassin's Creed Mirage isn't just a throwback to the classic entries, but a celebration of what made this franchise stand out in the first place. The stealth gameplay is fully embraced as a lot of the classic moves are back in action. There’s still some minor quibbles with the map and the repetition of some of the collectibles. Still, if you’re a fan of any of the past games, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a must buy.

To summarize, Trepang2 is a brilliant fast-paced game filled with non-stop action and allows the players to be creative on how to kill the enemies that stand in their way. However, the story holds back the game's potential, and unfortunately, if you're looking for the horror aspect that reminds you of F.E.A.R, then Trepang2 won't quench that thirst. Still, the game is overall a solid experience for those who seek some quick thrill during their free time.

Counter-Strike 2 brings many new things to the franchise that both veterans and newcomers alike can enjoy, especially the updated graphics on the Maps and guns. Moreover, numerous systems are straight-up an upgrade from CS: GO, such as the Loadout and Smoke Grenade, which makes Counter-Strike 2 more enjoyable and fair. However, many things are still not in the game, which might deter many players from trying the game just yet, though the ones that are now available are more than enough to enjoy a good Counter-Strike match.

While a great addition to the We Were Here Series, Expeditions: The FriendShip is not likely to blow your mind. If you are ok with a slower-paced, purely puzzle-based game that runs on the shorter side when you have an hour or two to kill with your friend online, this is a worthy title to look at. It's also a great way to introduce yourself into the series as a whole and help you decide if you want to sink your teeth into one of the other, longer, games. While I do personally prefer couch co-op, this is one title I'm sure to get back into time and time again for my online co-op needs, which are more and more common these days.

King Of The Castle is probably one of, if not my all-time favorite party games. It's easy to learn and play with so many friends. The story is fun and engaging while ever-changing and unique for each playthrough. It plays like a visual novel that meets with the political intrigue of a game like Secret Hitler. I believe the game is best played by having all the players read their character's lines out loud to each other and roleplay it. For the low price, I would put it as a must-have for any party game and a brainer if it goes on sale.

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.

In conclusion, Faerie Afterlight is a great deal if you want to play a Metroidvania game set in a magical fairy world. Although it’s not a perfect game, it will give you a great time exploring all the areas and fighting challenging bosses. Accompanied by a visually stunning art style and soothing music score, Faerie Afterlight is the game that you’re looking for.

If you're a die-hard Fate fan or are looking for a good point to jump into the series, Fate/Samurai Remnant is a must-play experience which meaningfully expands the Fate lore, introduces some compelling new Masters and Servants and let's you harness the catastrophic power of the Heroic Spirits like never before while still housing many helpful onboarding features to help with Fate's infamously complex lore and terminology. However, if you're just looking for a good clean action game, Fate/Samurai Remnant is going to disappoint, largely due to its messy mix of combat systems and extremely large focus on narrative above all else.

Party Animals is a chaotic but hilariously fun experience. Seamless and polished, you'll rarely find a flaw in the gameplay. The devs generously gave us multiple modes and litany of characters to pay as. Punch and kick your opponents as you brawl your way to victory. You're sure to have a ton of laughs whether it's as a single player or with a group of up to 8 friends.

Bounty of One feels like a rushed and unfortunate clone of more successful reverse bullet-hell titles. Rather than expanding the gameplay with unique enemies and relics, Bounty of One restricts its players to one arena with just a handful of different enemy types. Not being able to shoot while moving turns the game into a stutter-fest at higher difficulties. There are a few things to like here, but I have a hard time recommending it.

Rune Factory 3: Special is far from one of the best games of 2023, or even within the farming game genre. Many of the core mechanics are there, but the proper execution is lacking. However, there are certain highlights to it that prevent it from being completely written off, mainly the unique characters you'll meet. Farming fans will get more out of this than anyone else, but they've no doubt played much better.

Many smaller games outside the triple-A realm, want to achieve the hidden gem status, but a hidden gem is exactly how I would describe Sword of the Vagrant. Its radiant quality shines through for such an encapsulating fulfilling experience. It doesn’t rewrite the genre, but it certainly punches well above its weight and should be high on the list for anyone wanting to experience a great little gorgeous adventure.

Mortal Kombat 1 takes the original formula of a tournament between realms and enriches every step. As a hard reset to the universe, the game goes back to the beginning and re-establishes the beloved story and pieces of lore in exciting new ways. With only a few flaws, the gameplay is intuitive and enjoyable. All of this is further heightened with masterful graphics and audio design.

The conclusive episode to Telltale's Expanse series didn't leave us wanting more. Instead, we were satisfied with the ending (or should we say endings). Of course, the short episode length instills the feeling of something missing, yet episode 5 manages to bring everything together and tie it down well. As a result, we can accept this as a respectable effort from Telltale as their game wasn't too bad in the end. Dull gameplay elements, not enough time with the crew, really short episodes, and the occasional illusion of choice is what prevents this game from being a Telltale classic. Nevertheless, for fans of the television series, this episodic game is definitely one you can enjoy.

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).

Developer Gunfire Games returns with the more polished sequel Remnant II. Players itching for an open world of brutality can take on a randomized campaign for hours of entertainment. Like its predecessor, the plot steps away from the forefront while the gameplay does all the talking. Defend yourself and your teammates against swarms of deadwood, and other massive entities until you conquer The Root. The immersive atmosphere and quick thinking mechanics will be your best distraction this year. In all, this sequel displays Gunfire Games' efforts in listening to their fandom and polishing that feedback. Any gamer can find enjoyment and satisfaction when they tune in unaccompanied, but the real fun begins once your friends join the fight.

To call Baldur's Gate 3 a great game would be an understatement. Overlooking a handful visual glitches, every moment of Baldur's Gate 3 is dripping in fantasy goodness. Flawlessly succeeding in what most choice-based narrative games seem to fall short of perfecting, the freedom of choice is endless. The D&D based gameplay sticks close to its roots, with a blend of genres and lore as well as the implementation of the ever-present dice roll and turn-based combat. After "only" 80 hours of gameplay, every moment of my playthrough has engulfed me in a sense of childlike wonder which comes from a well crafted piece of fantasy. No game is perfect, but with Larian Studios staying committed to player experience and releasing quality of life patches since launch, Baldur's Gate 3 is not far from it.

Wandering Sword is a phenomenal 2.5D game that provides tons of unique mechanics to its gameplay. Paired with the equally beautiful soundtracks, Wandering Sword's tile-based combat and exploration feel incredible and mesmerizing. Though lacking a bit in several areas, particularly its stiff combat animations, this game is a great package for those who enjoy ancient Chinese-based martial arts experience.

Deceit 2 simply tried to fit in as much demonic and horror-related elements into the simple concept of a mafia-style game and ended up giving birth to an incohesive mess. All hope is not lost as the game does show small glimpses of potential but unfortunately, it is not enough to make up for all of its issues. All in all, this confusing experience is incredibly forgettable and bland. The game itself is underwhelming while the content is overwhelming, it's an incohesive paradox of a title that lacks any proper synergy, leaving new players puzzled and returning players disappointed.

A game based on a fairy tale like Pinocchio always had room to fail and yet, somehow, Lies of P manages to easily cross that bar. With a focus on relentless aggression in combat that goes toe-to-toe with some of the genre's best entries and a grim narrative and world that successfully engages and enraptures you, Lies of P is a triumph in most ways where it counts. While the second act really drags the game down and introduces a lot of pain points that it never truly recovers from, Lies of P endures to become one of the strongest Souls-like experiences in recent years and a worthy pick for any player looking to step into a bleak yet fascinating fairy tale world.

Stick to the Plan is an incredibly fun and powerfully adorable game. With a look and feel that makes it a joy to play and a wonderful experience from start to finish. The art style is incredibly charming. It features brilliant looking worlds and levels. And a soothing soundtrack. And the puzzles are fair and aren't overly difficult. Even if some do take a lot of time to figure out. As a whole Stick to the Plan is one of my most favourite games to come out this year.

Xixo Game Studios' Enchanted Portals has given us some of the magic of Cuphead but not much else. Though its art style and boss fights capture the essence of its inspiration. The sluggish gameplay and mechanics completely let it down alongside its dull story and choice of presentation. With some polish Enchanted Portals could be the challenging platformer it wants to be. But currently it only achieves this for all the wrong reasons.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre is the perfect experience for you and your friends if you're looking for a more grounded version of Dead by Daylight. Taking strides into the horror genre since their last major title, Friday the Thirteenth, Gun Interactive brings the fun back in chasing your friends with deadly weapons. Beware that there are several technical issues with the game, along with a limited player base which makes finding games difficult. Otherwise, it's a great representation to the popular Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise!

The music will aggrandize, the steps will become louder, the phone will start to ring, and the story, or what you thought of the story up until that point, will begin to warp. Every aspect of Ad Infinitum works beautifully with one another. It's a game that grabs you right away in the Prologue and doesn't let go until credits roll, only after leaving a lasting impression.

Rhapsody: Marl Kingdom Chronicles is a pair of games in an interesting situation. Both are crippled by the exact opposite problems. Rhapsody II is a game that is simplistic and way too easy, but Rhapsody III is a game that is too bloated and slowly paced. Rhapsody II I can at least recommend it as a chill, beginner RPG for kids, but Rhapsody III I cannot really recommend under any circumstance.

Overall Strategic Mind: Spirit of Liberty provides a fresh outlook on World War II by utilizing Finland's ultimate struggle and hardships against the Soviets. While there are some lacking aspects within the game, such as the sub-par cutscenes and outdated UI, Strategic Mind: Spirit of Liberty still retains some great things like the turn systems, and with the addition of Heroes like Simo Hayha, the game fits the criteria for those who want to enjoy a new turn-based game that depicts the harshness of World War II.

Unfortunately, having a solid conclusion to this episode is not enough to make up for the extremely dull gameplay loop and lack of urgency present in the episode. You find yourself almost forgetting it is a Telltale title due to the illusion of choice that is everywhere. Not only do your actions feel pointless, but the plot derails and things get a bit odd in terms of plot-relevancy. Moreover, in a game where narrative is the main gameplay loop, it's hard to fully immerse yourself if the choices aren't impactful, no matter how good the atmosphere and ambience is. Hopefully, the final episode of the series can wrap it up on somewhat of a positive note.

WrestleQuest has a nice blend of Professional Wrestling, and RPG, that keeps the player invested in the storyline that is being told. Both Santos and Logan have a reason to want to succeed just like everyone has in the real world. The humor is nicely sprinkled throughout the game, and the match battles are, though intense at times, fun and enjoyable. WrestleQuest is a bold wrestling game that placed elements from the RPG genre of gaming and made it work. I'd give this game a go!

ARMORED CORE VI: FIRES OF RUBICON delivers an astonishing experience of mech battles, combining freedom of choice with incredibly smart enemy AI, making every battle feel different and challenging. The story within the game is also intriguing, and the weight behind it is very real and memorable. Moreover, the superb graphics and sound design make the experience of playing the game more surreal, setting us on a journey that will remain in our hearts for years to come.

Chess Survivors is a ton of fun. Providing gamers with a challenging Rogue-Like Survival game with an innovative twist. With plenty to unlock as well as find across your many runs, there is much to keep players coming back for more. However, the game lacks variety and may feel too repetitive for some. And those who don't have a basic understanding of how chess works may struggle initially. But it makes for an over all refreshing experience.

30XX is far from the first Mega Man game with user-made content. Mega Man Powered Up had it as a feature (preserved by fans despite the closure of online servers), the fanmade Mega Man Maker is incredibly ambitious and feature rich, and user-made levels were the central concept for the cancelled Mega Man Unvierse. But of all these games, 30XX is the one I want to play the most. It masterfully plays tribute to the Mega Man series while managing to stray away from it and have its own style. If you're patiently waiting a thousand years for Megaman X9 like I am, then 30XX is a must buy.

Sea of Stars is a modern take on the best JRPGs of old. With this, there are parts that don't feel wholly unique. But, with remasters of classic Final Fantasy games and Super Mario RPG coming out, gamers are looking for an experience similar to those days. With a strong cast of characters and engaging story, along with a beautiful soundtrack, any fan of classic JRPGs should give this a try.

Fort Solis understands what it takes to create a Hollywood style sci-fi movie. A well-written, gripping story, performed by a cast of talented actors who battle their way through thick atmospheres and tense conversations. However, the dedication to delivering a cinematic experience seems to have left little room for gameplay. Mars is visually stellar, immersive and begging to be explored, yet the slow movement of characters can become quite frustrating at times, making it difficult to want to play Fort Solis in one sitting. In spite of the pacing issue, the rest of the experience is enjoyable, capturing the essence of isolation and existential dread which comes with a deserted space station.

Overall, Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle improves on almost everything from the original game. The story may be lacking with uninteresting characters but the gameplay manages to help push through that fault. The Frost Grip is the golden goose of the game, having the most fun freezing enemies whilst collecting fun bits of lore and alien toys. Add in the fantastic atmosphere that fits with the type of horror, Invader Studios wants to portray.

Trine 5 is sure to be a nice surprise for newcomers and a delight for veterans of the franchise. The stunning world and atmosphere never disappoints and the franchise still has its charming humor nailed down. If you don't mind combat being a bit of a drag and If you are looking for a constant brain tease with solid platforming and a relaxing atmosphere, look no further than Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy.

Moving Out 2 succeeds in all the ways a sequel should. Keeping the best elements from the first game and interspersing them among a truckful of imaginative levels, Moving Out 2 is bigger, better and whackier than before. The different dimensions offer their own challenges and are aesthetically pleasing even in moments of frustration. The DualSense's subtle use is effective and makes pulling out electrical wires more fun than hazardous. To package all of this together, the writers have put together amusing dialogues which match the lively mechanics, visuals and audio.

Overall, this episode carries the same feel as the previous installments yet just falls short in some aspects. Episode 1 was a strong start that pulled us in, and while Episode 2 was still interesting enough for us to continue, Episode 3 feels rushed and lazy in some parts. The gameplay is unimaginative and feels like a chore. On top of that, the short episode length really makes players feel like they're not getting enough game for their buck. That being said, the main story itself is extremely interesting, with well-written dialogue that proves to be both charming and dramatic.

It was a blast to take a trip down to memory lane of playing this beloved '90s relic. Quake II has certainly stood the test of time and is easily one of the best from the retro first-person shooter scene. The amount of value that the remaster version has given the players is simply unmatched and Call of the Machine is also a nice addition to the diehard Quake II fanatics. Quake II Remaster is easily a must have game for the lovers of retro first-person shooters, and can get you into the game if you didn't play it during its heyday.

Blasphemous 2 is a fantastic sequel. The smooth gameplay, wonderful world building and awesomely gory and strange art make this a must play for fans of the genre and new acolytes looking to test it out. It improves on the original with some excellent streamlining and platforming to go with the combat. It plays, looks, and sounds great, and is a must play for anyone even slightly intrigued.

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a wild, creative, and fulfilling strategy adventure taking place in the fictional Lost Caribbean. The ragtag crew of cursed pirates aboard The Red Marley compliment each other in both gameplay and personality. The fantastical abilities of each pirate, coupled with the large and open-ended levels, give players the freedom to approach their objective from any angle. This thrilling stealth tactics adventure is captivating, addictive, and definitely worth experiencing.

Despite wishing there was more to do in En Garde!, I understand how a short title can be frustrating. Hopefully, with time, more will be added to this title to make it worth the twenty-dollar price tag. Thanks to En Garde!, I was able to play this wonderful story, no matter how short it was! It has a story worth telling. Maybe we’ll see more of our new favorite swash-buckling protagonist, maybe not; but I for one hope so!

Underlevel is a fun and frenetic indie title with a great premise and an engaging gameplay loop. With a near addicting arcade style experience which will challenge gamers old and new coupled with a charming art direction and score. However it may be a tad too short for some. And the pathfinding of your minions can be rather shoddy at times.

Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE is a stellar mystery game full of loud and endearing characters that you'll come to either love or hate, and the type of absurd out-of-the-box mystery solving that only Spike Chunsoft (and Too Kyo Games) can create. However, the mysteries of Kanai Ward never quite reach the levels of the killing games or the nonary games, though the gameplay far surpasses its predecessors.

Like with the Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Baldur's Gate 3 feels like an impossible video game. Everything it does flies in the face of modern gaming and it fulfils almost all of its goals with a tactician's precision and clarity. From its stellar story with hundreds, if not thousands, of meaningful choices and consequences which make every single playthrough special, to the deep and compelling combat which you can spend an age learning, to its impeccable world and sound design, Baldur's Gate 3 is truly something special. While it isn't perfect and stumbles here or there, especially in terms of bugs and technical performance, it would be a crying shame for anyone to miss out on a masterpiece like this. Baldur's Gate 3 is my personal game of the year and I beg everyone who is even remotely interested to try it out.

I am mindful that this is a budget title. However, against It’s inspirations, it comes up short. I will say that I loved the art design and that playing through the areas and puzzles was solid, if unspectacular. I also appreciated it’s light-hearted moments. However, control could be very frustrating and specifically the audio was incredibly jarring throughout, from the stock nature sounds to non-existent music. The games tone also struck me as odd, undecided if wants to be heartfelt, whimsical or a tale of revenge. Regarding story, there's very little to engage with, even within the games' environments. The game also included bugs that required restarts, which I hope are fixed in due course. Having played Omno recently, the difference is night and day.

All in all, I really enjoyed playing Venba. I just wish it was a bit longer. Saying this, I was pleased with what I was offered. Venba isn't like other cooking games I have played. If you make a mistake, you have to start again, but you don't feel frustrated or embarrassed. I also liked the puzzle element thrown into the cooking gameplay. The story of Venba and her family helped me to be further engaged in the game. I also enjoyed learning about Indian culture and cuisine, and loved how the story explored keeping hold of the cultures of your homeland while in a new country.

All in all, this episode is definitely a step in the right direction. Although, there is still much to be desired in terms of improving the main exploration gameplay loop, so far the game has proven to maintain the standards of previous Telltale entries. The plot seems to be advancing well and the dialogue is, as always, well-written. It is too early to judge the season as a whole, but we hope that we get to see the consequences of our actions in future episodes to really signify that our choices matter. Great episode, the future is looking bright!

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a dream game for musical lovers. Its usage of songs is perfectly integrated into the story and will get stuck in your head. The replayability is great in more ways than one, as you can replay the song sequences with different outcomes depending on what you choose. On top of that, it's bolstered by an A-List cast stacked with talent and carries this captivating murder mystery. Hopefully this means more musical games will come, but for now, you can't beat Stray Gods.

Frank and Drake is a unique narrative tale which is heavily influenced by the Gothic genre. The hand-drawn art style is mesmerizing and keeps your eyes glued to the intertwining tales of the two men. Cramming a bundle of interactivity into a relatively small game, each path you take will have you asking questions that are begging for answers. It isn't often I take the plunge to discover all endings to a branching narrative, but the excellent writing, eye-catching art and array of puzzles as well as a short run time feeds the urge to replay. This urge is then turned into a necessity upon seeing the endings play out, needing to unveil the mysteries plaguing Frank and Drake.

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons has a very common problem, the gameplay is amazing, but everything that isn't the gameplay isn't as good. There's a clear desire to mix things up, but Double Dragon Gaiden's attempts to innovate come off as half baked. Regardless, the arcade action is incredibly solid, and it's a welcome return to form for the Double Dragon IP. May the Lee Brothers defend New York City forevermore!

Overall, Pikmin 4 is a great and fun time. This is the most beautiful game yet in the series and the best-looking Switch game to date. Plenty of new features elevate the Pikmin formula but also take some steps back in key areas. Being able to create your character is fun, and I love all the charming character conversations. The night mode and new Pikmin are also a welcome addition, adding variety to the series. By far, the best addition is Oatchi and all the abilities you can upgrade.

Fall of Porcupine tells a wonderful and thought provoking tale, in particular following the impact of a real world pandemic on our healthcare systems. Yet the emotional experience is sometimes hindered by incorrectly labelled button prompts, inconsistencies in dialogue translation and an invisible torso. In spite of this, the wholesome characters and comfy storybook atmosphere combined with a selection of minigames create a memorable time in the town of Porcupine.

Ghostrunner is one of the most polished, gameplay-focused experiences in the cyberpunk genre. It is more than an enjoyable and decent challenge, especially if you're an avid gamer. If you die, it is 100% your fault, so you must try every single strategy that comes to your mind to break the loop. But once you master all the elements of the game's combat, it becomes very satisfying. And I think that's the peak, priceless moment of this amazing game.

With its strong pedigree and personality, Jagged Alliance 3 is a difficult yet entertaining strategy experience. It presents players with seemingly unlimited choices, and offers a huge amount of agency in how to approach each situation. While it does suffer from a handful of annoyances, a clunky user interface, and mechanics that aren't quite explained, it is a fun and challenging addition that is sure to be a hit or fans of strategy RPGs.

Ed-0: Zombie Uprising blends together the Souls-like and mystery dungeon genres to create a fun experience. You get access to different characters, skills, and items to help you conquer your enemies. While the game is very grind-heavy, there's a lot to see and do. It would be nice to have more customisation with equipment and upgrades, but the experience is still solid enough if you give it a chance.

Telltale's resurgence is evident with a solid first episode. Graphical quality has increased immensely, as well as aspects such as; movement, sound and cinematography. Hopefully, Telltale and Deck Nine can capitalize on players' excitement and continue delivering fun episodes. For now, it is too early to judge the exact quality of this game as a whole. However, Episode 1 proved to be a promising start that can be built upon.

Whether or not you're a horse lover, The Sims 4 Horse Ranch is an Expansion Pack worth checking out. Horses lived up to expectations, being beautifully modelled and animated, not being overwhelmingly challenging to manage, and providing plenty of fun new gameplay. The mini goats and sheep add a little extra fun and cuteness as well. The world of Chestnut Ridge is perfect for the new gameplay in Horse Ranch and is one of the most scenic and tranquil worlds in The Sims 4. There was some great new stuff added in Create-A-Sim and Build Mode as well, although I feel some extra stuff could have been included. All-in-all, The Sims 4 Horse Ranch will give you a smooth ride in a classically rustic and tranquil setting.

If I had to describe Front Mission 1st, I would say that it truly does feel like a war, or at least what I imagine one to be like. I'm too much of a coward to join the army. Battles are intense and exciting, but when you're supposed to be relaxing, things are annoying and cumbersome, and you always feel left in the dark when it comes to the true intentions of your superiors. Front Mission 1st does a good job of setting up an interesting world, one that I hope the impending remakes of its sequels build upon.

City Limits is a puzzle-strategy game with low-stakes and high scores. It does only a few things, but it gets them right. The gameplay loop is there for anyone chasing high scores or a rewarding game to chill out to, and the aesthetic and soundscape is soothing. It takes a short time to experience the entire game, but you might want to stay a long time anyway.

While lacking in graphical output and player customization, Nimbus Infinity gives mech enthusiasts a fun, quick ride through an interesting yet familiar story. The length of the game is a key factor for anyone short on gaming time who is looking for a few hours of entertainment. The 2D elements portrayed during storytelling appeal to fans of visual novels who want a more involved adventure while retaining the relaxed experience that visual novels provide.

Deadliest Catch: The Game tries to make sure that it captures the spirit of deep sea fishing. It does have some success because the process of fishing is accurate. Unfortunately, the main appeal of Deadliest Catch: The Game isn't present. The lack of danger breaks the immersion and reveals the game as nothing more than a crab-catching simulator. Without much of a story or goal behind it, it's unlikely you can get much enjoyment out of this game.

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.

I was blown away by Tchia. I'm really glad I got the opportunity to play this incredible game, which has obviously been lovingly put together by an excellent team. There were one or two teething issues when I played Tchia, otherwise it was a flawless experience. Once I got into the game (which didn't take long), I became addicted thanks to the amazing open world gameplay and the story you eagerly get absorbed in. If you like games that has a bit of everything in it, such as exploration, music, collectibles and loads more, then Tchia is a great game to invest in.

While Lunacy: Saint Rhodes succeeds at crafting a horror game full of interesting ideas and cool locations, it's a game that comes off as dull. It's unpolished in many areas and attempting to play it comes off as incredibly frustrating. With more time, it's possible that these issues could be remedied but as for now, only hardcore horror fanatics will be able to find enjoyment in this.

The Book Walker: Thief of Tales plays with the tantalising premise of being able to physical engulf in a fictional world, however I found it to slightly under deliver in its execution. While the story is well-written and there are some intriguing plot points along the way, the gameplay slightly impedes on the enjoyment of the novels. That being said, each of the world's have their own fleshed out environments, characters and lore, and Etienne's story kept me hooked until the final pages.