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.

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.

The Suicide of Rachel Foster is a tense, thrilling experience for anyone who picks it up. If you are searching for something similar to PT, but without the horror aspect, then this is for you. But if you're looking for something to unleash a scream too, this may not be the title for you. Either way, if you want to understand the truth behind the suicide, then delve right in.

They call it "Bright," but it's more of a "Sufficiently Visible" memory. The crowning achievement of Bright Memory: Infinite is that it even exists. A one-person studio working with creating the work from top to bottom, with only minimal help from outside sources. While flaws certainly show themselves at an alarming rate, the core idea is satisfying fun. While more for those already engrossed with the everlasting FPS phenomenon, it's commendable just for the attempt.

You could say that Demon Turf is one Hell of a time. So much variety in worlds and challenges. Heavy emphasis on speed, flexibility, and experimentation. With all the freedom afforded to the player, Demon Turf manages to be a generally great platformer-adventure with just enough on the side to keep things eventful and fresh. If not for some bloated level design, and with heavier polish on outside elements such as combat, this would be a bonafide classic. Even now, it's a phenomenal option for platformer fanatics new and old.

There’s no denying that survival games are a well-liked genre, and for all its flaws, This Land is My Land does do some interesting things. Having a Native American protagonist, for instance, is a genuinely exciting prospect, although the developers could certainly have done more to work with the people they were trying to represent. In a lot of ways, this game feels like it’s on the verge of being something really worthwhile; the setting and the mechanics are both, in theory, really interesting to explore in a video game. It’s just truly frustrating to see them get lost amid the game’s indecisiveness on what it wants to be and the sheer uninviting nature it presents for new players.

The Legend of Tian Ding has its imperfections, especially in some story aspects and its difficulty. But overall, it provides a perfect insight into the history of Taiwan during the colonial period, while also providing incredible combat and platforming to make you feel like a true kung fu master. The legend of this game will surely be told in the generations to come.

This outstanding masterpiece from Playground Games keeps its charm after hours of playing. A well-thought-out title with endless driving fun. Whether you're a car fanatic or not, playing this with your friends will be a well-spent time and there aren't many skills required to understand this game. Fairly easy racer, yet very entertaining. The studio has undoubtedly succeeded this year again, with frequent post-launch updates and free content likely to come regularly, you will always find a reason to come back and play this game.

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.

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is one of the most fun games this year. Its linear storytelling provides the right story that goes all on in the cosmic enjoyment. Add in the fantastic spectacles with a kicking soundtrack, and this game will make you yell flark yes!

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.

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.

It's a long path to the truth; good luck getting there. Though my score is somewhat low, those particularly fond of Point & Click will find more to digest here, if not a sufficient challenge. Trouble Hunter Chronicles: The Stolen Creed is a pretty packed adventure with a lot of dialogue and puzzle-based trials. If one can get past some rather apparent technical visual and auditory mishaps, it's a perfectly satisfactory mystery title geared towards retro veterans. But I really must stress: good luck.

Agatha Christie - Hercule Poirot: The First Cases is light on the "game" but successfully unravels a story like a page-turning mystery. It doesn't play out like a typical detective adventure, but instead uses a narrative that feels in line with the Mind Map mechanic. I appreciated the simple tale that allows the player to experience Poirot's process - no magic, no tricks, not even godlike intelligence - just the power of good old logical thinking. This detective game accomplishes what it set out to do: turn a mystery story into a compelling audio-visual experience.

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.

Mascot horror dominates the video game industry, but this game takes the cake with its unique use of the trend. The game effectively uses its strong points to its advantage to bring fear into players. Instead of using jumpscares to create fear, it builds tension to spook the player. It creates an illusion of being safe when in reality, the danger is still lurking within. As this is the first chapter, it is relatively short, only ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the player. Even with its short time frame, it packs an impressive punch into what's to come into future chapters. Poppy Playtime could easily be one of the best indie games released this year from its production quality and effective use of scares.

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.

Pathologic 2 is one of the worst gaming experiences you can have, but in the good way. You can embrace this unique, crushing, anxiety fueled nightmare and gain a truly remarkable ride from it. It is utterly masochistic but rich with detail, style and thought. You won’t have a good time, but you aren’t meant to. It is the furtherest thing from a power fantasy. Pathologic 2 pushes the boundaries of what video games can be if used as a method of interactive story telling. The visuals are somewhat underwhelming but it’s flaws are part of the point and the journey. It isn’t for everyone, and there’s nothing wrong with avoiding the title if you a looking for a good time.

Ultimately, The Good Life is a good game with some flaws. There are some features that the game probably could have done without. Nevertheless, the story is very interesting, as well as the characters, and there are moments which are genuinely shocking or funny. While Naomi's character can be obnoxious at times, she also makes a good protagonist in a "fish-out-of-water" situation, complete with funny snarky moments. Aspects of the game make it quite addictive, such as profiting from taking photos and posting them on the computer, as well as completing the main story quests and side quests. The game does allow you to play at your leisure, so you can go off and do some other activities such as gardening or cooking or crafting. The ability to turn into a cat or dog is unique, beneficial, and easy to use. For a game made on a modest budget, The Good Life isn't bad at all.

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.

Passion is a double-edged sword. On one hand, you have a spirited, ambitious attempt to create the next sweeping epic the likes people can latch onto and discuss for years to come. On the other, you have a relatively short game that does not afford the story time to develop to get to that emotional boiling point. While a pretty solid Point & Click adventure with intuitive puzzles and a neat I Spy side-hunt, The Sundew will always be marred by its own insistence with telling a five-hour story in two hours. I appreciate the attempt; it just didn't land as intended.

Astria Ascending has all the building blocks of what makes great RPGs, but all these separate parts haven't fit perfectly together in the final product. The story and characters have a lot potential but are let down by encumbered pacing and awkward writing. Still, it's a beautiful RPG for those who crave challenging/engaging turn-based combat and eye-catching visuals.

Mobius Digital has once again proven that they are masters of their craft. Echoes of the Eye carries on the legacy of Outer Wilds by delivering a riveting narrative told in a beautiful new world, paired with an excellent use of the main game's mechanics to deliver its story. While some parts of the DLC are frustrating in their implentation of horror elements, the option to make these parts easier, as well as the other parts of the game, make them worth going through.

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.

As a whole, Bonito Days is a great game for anyone looking to ignore reality for a moment or two. It's fun and easy going, and easy for anyone of any age to pick up and enjoy. I definitely plan on playing this both on my own and with some friends whilst the winter rolls in. Who knows, maybe summer will come back before we know it.

Gang Beasts will always be a game I enjoy to play, but the release on Nintendo Switch was definitely disappointing. Although I loved it prior to this, I can't help but feel put off from picking it up for a while. I wish there had been something new and exciting for this brilliant release, but I guess we just have to keep waiting.

Alan Wake Remastered is the definitive version of Alan's story in Bright Falls. It is the exact same game that acquired quiet respect amongst fans and critics following its 2010 release. Only now it boasts 4K visuals and 60FPS gameplay. Along with some welcome bonus features, and packaged-in DLC, the remaster is a must for superfans, and a fantastic starting point for curious newcomers, with only a few small annoyances that stop it just short of reaching perfection.

A lot of love and care was put into the development of Bonfire Peaks, and it shows. It’s an extremely tight puzzler with a classic ‘easy to learn, hard to master’ difficulty curve. The puzzles do get pretty darn hard, and the lack of a hint system won’t sit well with everyone, but it’s definitely worth a look if you have a hankering for well-thought-out puzzle games.

Metroid has officially returned to its pedestal of greatness among Nintendo's finest. Powerfully efficient in its details and ruthless in its effort to make the player writhe in agony. While not the greatest heights the franchise has ever seen, it's more than polished enough to be a respected and beloved addition to the franchise. While it marks the end of the original timeline, the future is vast and endless, and Dread marks the potential for a markedly improved vision of the genre. While the Switch has more than enough must-buys already, this is yet another. Just be warned that it takes no prisoners.

Teacup is an undeniably adorable adventure for anyone facing anxieties or looking for a wholesome way to pass the time. It promotes the idea of stepping out of your comfort zone, even when you really don't want to, which is valuable for anyone who needs it. I would highly recommend this game, it even features wonderful recipes for your own herbal remedies!

Rogue Lords is a well-built roguelike that can get anyone in an evil Halloween party mood. The game has the style and addictive hook to keep devilish map-crawlers progressing through suspicious sanctuaries and nasty taverns. Lovers of the genre will find a familiar but engaging gameplay loop and new strategies to learn. However, its reliance on punishing difficulty, probably meant to encourage more risk-taking, can take a toll on the player's overall enjoyment of what is a really fun game.

There honestly is a lot to like about Residual, from its decent story to its wonderful pixel-art graphics. Unfortunately, it’s let down by some shallow and unfocused gameplay. With a solid and dedicated developer behind it, though, future patches and tweaks might serve to solve some of those issues, so it’s still worth keeping an eye on.

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.

A Juggler's Tale might not be a long game, but that by any means doesn't make it a bad one. It's a game with a beautiful story and strong cast of characters that is well worth delving into, and you'll love Abby, routing for her right from the beginning until the very end. The role of the narrator is also powerful and innovative. Puzzles that the game presents are challenging but not impossible to solve, as well as very creative, although some are harder to work out than others. Gameplay is good fun, although some mechanics take time to get the hang of, such as throwing, but you get plenty of opportunities to practice and work on it. Graphics and music help bring the story to life, showcasing the best and worst of the world and any situations you're put in. If you're looking for a game that features a short yet powerful story, A Juggler's Tale is one you should check out, while also pushing your puzzle-solving skills.

As a whole, my time spend with Momolu and his welcoming friends was definitely enjoyable. I can see myself going back to this game in the near future if I need to take a step back from how busy and fast paced day to day life is. It's certainly not going to be every adult's cup of tea, but Momolu for sure has a friend in me.

Gamedec should be an essential play for fans of isometric, story-driven titles. The detective work is paced and executed in a way that makes you feel like you're actually solving crimes, rather than following scripted conversations. The environments are varied and interesting, and the music absolutely slaps. This is a title that deserves your time and attention.

Death Stranding Director's Cut is an artistic vision fully realized. If the original Death Stranding did not entice you, do not expect to be converted. However, if you resonate with the experience being presented, the game is a must-play and the definitive way to enjoy a one-of-a-kind title.

For what it is, SkateBIRD is a fun and interesting title unlike any other. While it may have some flaws, they don't run so deep that they break the game or make it entirely unenjoyable. For those looking for a casual skating experience with a fun soundtrack, this is an easy one to recommend.

Overall, it sometimes feels like just moving on from each area to the next, with not much else in-between. Tales of Arise is a beautiful game to look at, but the game goes by too quickly due to the relatively limited side-questing. The last release in the Tales series, Tales of Berseria, offered a lot of gameplay in terms of extra content, and the story was enough to wrench your heart out. Tales of Arise offers a very compelling story but not much else in terms of extra gameplay.

The follow-up to ATOM RPG has the same quality writing and polish, alongside improvements to the graphics and mechanics. Despite suffering from some of the same issues, this makes ATOM RPG: Trudograd a strict upgrade to its predecessor and a must play for lovers of cRPGs.

The bites may be fresh, but what about the blood that pumps within? As much of a "definitive" edition Fresh Bites may be, BloodRayne Betrayal's 2021 revival doesn't manage to sink itself too deep into the collective necks of a wider player base. With its foot still planted on the pulse of its former hardcore fanbase, it beckons the coming crowd with promises of new additions—more accessible difficulty, voice acting! However, there's nothing about this repackaged version that's enough to entice people not already fond of the franchise or genre. If one was to choose between this and the 2011 original, this would be the better option. Unfortunately, it still doesn't feel like a good branching point for those looking to get into hack n' slashes.

Stranded Deep has a great team of minds behind it, and the game definitely has the potential to excel in its field. But for Nintendo Switch, it just doesn't meet the criteria. Starting a new adventure is exciting, but there isn't really enough to keep me focused or compelled.

Ultra Age is the sort of game that could have benefited from more polish and a stronger narrative. The performance on Nintendo Switch is disappointing, but the largest problems with the title are with the narrative structure and presentation. If there is ever a future for this franchise, the focus needs to be on building the existing combat into a cohesive storyline, because right now, it just doesn't cut it.

Where some expansions expand on the gameplay with core changes and new systems, Ghost of Tsushima's Iki Island acts more like an extension of the main game loved by so many - with only minor yet appreciated tweaks. For the most part, in conjunction with changes to enemy combat skills and exploration, along with turning your horse into a weapon, playing through Iki fits wonderfully into this originally three-act epic as a welcome fourth. Ever so slightly dusted with imperfections, the captivating story, combat, graphics, and soundtrack are all still among the very best PlayStation exclusives have to offer, mostly overshadowing any grievances.

Lake is an impressive cosy experience that condenses the best of rural life into a small package of contentment and melancholy. Fantastic voice acting, writing, and an overall positive message help elevate it past just another title available on the market. Graphical and performance issues are present, but they aren't bad enough to stop me recommending this indie adventure to anybody feeling a little lost, or searching for a peaceful and relaxing game to unwind with.

Life is Strange: True Colors is a must-play for anyone with even the vaguest interest in the series. It takes everything that has made the franchise good and elevates it to new heights. This is Life is Strange at its most confident, its most sentimental, and its most engrossing.

The Artful Escape is a hypnotic journey about legacy and self-discovery. The developers have managed to tell an inspiring story about being yourself no matter what. The journey is the perfect length and often surprised me with its tenderness and soul. Stunning visuals and a catchy soundtrack helped elevate the experience into something I don't think I will forget anytime soon.

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.

Overall, the refresh of The Sims 4 Spa Day Game Pack was a great success. A trip to the spa now feels like it has more purpose beyond just getting a massage or participating in a yoga class. Getting your Sims more involved in the Wellness activities was a great move, particularly as the Wellness Skill now feels like it has more value to it rather than just helping your Sims to feel more relaxed. The new aspirations and trait also give your Sims more of an excuse to hit the spa more often. It's also great that children can be a part of it now, even if they do have some restrictions. Additionally, the new nail feature has been fantastically done. There are one or two teething issues, and there were some missed opportunities to add some new content such as clothes, objects and music. If you are still considering getting The Sims 4 Spa Day, hopefully these new add-ons will persuade you to go and get it!

OPUS: Echo of Starsong pulls you in like a beautiful black hole, immersing you into a galaxy that will feel familiar to you only after a few hours into your playthrough. The narrative builds steadily on its incredible lore and endearingly imperfect cast of characters, leading up to a worthy emotional payoff. OPUS: Echo of Starsong makes the most of every moment of the player's time, rounding out into an breathtaking intergalactic experience that adventure game and visual novel lovers shouldn't miss.

In this thoughtful exploration into the minds of a damaged group of powerful psychics, you may actually learn a little about yourself. Through all the goofy humor and endless puns there is something special here. Psychonauts 2 is visually stunning at times, and a little repetitive at others, but the soul in this game stands out. The developers at Double Fine Productions took good care to make something special and refreshing.

Sometimes you need to imagine yourself as what you fear most to know true bliss. Webbed manages to create a fulfilling experience through one basic prospect: swinging around as a spider and going really fast. Barreling through forested areas is its forté, with an enamoring excitability that few games can replicate without outright copying the formula. Though it cannot remain stable throughout—the physics-based puzzles and activities outside of this freeing feeling aren't nearly as enjoyable, and some may travel aimlessly until they stumble upon progression accidentally. Nevertheless, it's an overall memorable homage to a prospect both weird and terrifying, which is generally what makes it worth it.

Hindsight 20/20 is a repeatable slice of choice-based gameplay that enticed me to play its short story multiple times to see just how much I could alter the outcome. Unfortunately, this approach means the same combat scenarios and puzzles must be repeated in every run, with no variations. This soon became a major bore, even though the fighting flowed so well at the beginning. A lacklustre cast of characters and uninspiring plot add to the action-adventure's problems.

Zool Redimensioned is a great reinvention of a forgotten cult classic of the Amiga era. With fast paced gameplay and plenty of secrets to discover, it can give you a lot to do. However whilst the art style might be nostalgic, enemies and obstacles can be easily obscured and the levels can be hard to navigate at times.

For all of its faults, Monster Harvest is still a unique experience that has the potential for a large payoff, if the team can rectify some of the problems. The premise is amazing, the execution is pretty great, and there are just a few more things to iron out before this title achieves legendary status. At this time, it's not a perfect game, but I can't stop playing it.

Necrobarista: Final Pour has as much humor to give as it does heart. Witty dialogue and meaningful character interactions combine with unique cinematography and 3D visuals to create a memorable visual novel experience. Additional content like side stories and Studio Mode are welcome in this updated version, but text issues and performance bugs are still present. There is little-to-no gameplay, but if it's a witty emotional story you're craving, this tale of coffee and the afterlife will satisfy your thirst.

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.

The Vale: Shadow of the Crown is an incredibly well-made experience for all kinds of players itching for a different kind of adventure. The writing of the world as you traverse it through Alex's shoes is fleshed-out and atmospheric. While the plot itself isn't unique, the design touches still allowed the world to become alive. The audio-based combat is challenging enough to make you use your brain as you listen for cues, without frustration. This is a game for those who want a new kind of narrative role-playing adventure and challenge, where you rely on your hearing, perception, and wits.

While it may be a little on the short side, Arietta of Spirits is an enjoyable experience. Overall, there's not much to fault here - an original story, beautiful visuals, fitting soundtrack and engaging gameplay. What it lacks in length and replayability, it makes up for with its charm and solid execution.

An unforgettable lesson on coping with the immutable march of death that'll shake even the rugged individuals out there. Packing few but extraordinarily fleshed out characters, levels, story beats, and gameplay elements, Death's Door shows restraint and temperance, standing as an indisputable triumph of the top-down dungeon crawler formula. It's bursting at the seams with good writing, humour, and an eagerness to use every last bit of its 10 to 13 hours of playtime in good faith. That's the crowning achievement of Death's Door: nothing feels left out or bloated. Acid Nerve managed to deliver a perfectly balanced cup of existential dread and philosophical remedy on all accounts.

On the whole, Intravenous is a finely crafted homage to early Splinter Cell titles. It’s definitely worth picking up for its solid stealth gameplay, but a few key aspects of its design really holds it back from being anything really fantastic.

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's safe to say that I think Hoa is an absolutely outstanding game. My childhood self would be shrieking with glee at this game as it is everything you could possibly wish for out of a nature based puzzle platformer. With adorable creatures to befriend and a story to learn, Hoa definitely has it all. Therefore I cannot recommend this game enough.

Ambition: A Minuet in Power does a great job of transporting players to an alternative 18th century Paris. The mind-blowing attention to detail goes from the narrative to the audiovisual design of the entire package. While there was valiant effort to make the middling decisions and errands more interesting, this aspect is saved the game’s charm and excellent writing. If you want a good visual novel experience with more bells and whistles than they typically come with, Ambition might be your cup of expensive French tea.

When it comes to iconic video game franchises, Space Invaders is potentially the most influential on modern culture. With the Invincible Collection, players of all ages and Invaders experience can enjoy 40 years of arcade entertainment, providing more fun for years to come.

It's not the same in a large variety of ways, but it doesn't have to be. Axiom Verge 2 manages to cement itself as both a worthy sequel and a standalone title, embodying the love of the metroidvania genre almost without rival. Those keen on a more open, explorative design will find substantial worth here, though the story and combat may not entirely satisfy. While the appreciation I have for the original game still has me favor it ever-so-slightly, applause should be designated to the solo developer that managed to make two splendid experiences that complement each other as much as differentiate.

Unbound: Worlds Apart is a fantastic addition to the metroidvania timeline. It remains unique whilst encouraging what people love about classic puzzle platformers. A super exciting concept is perfectly executed by Alien Pixel Studios, and takes the form of a captivating, melancholic adventure for all.

Just like a solid road trip, Road 96 is filled with ups and downs. As you strive to survive Petria’s worst roadblocks, you’ll find yourself making defining decisions. Even if the world of Petria isn’t as defined, the characters more than make up for the long, empty stretches of road. Road 96 is game that makes you think long and hard about both the journey and the destination.

A love letter to the transient state, No Longer Home exists to frame a very specific experience that has haunted many people in the course of their lives. This slow-paced shoegaze tale isn't for everyone, but if you love going on a nostalgia trip every once in a while, this game might help you reminisce those long-lost days.

Foreclosed is an ambitious attempt at combining the style of a graphic novel with the action of a video game. It flourishes as an interactable comic book, but clunky combat and an empty city lets Antab Studio's take on the Cyberpunk genre down. Despite these frustrating gameplay quirks, and an uninspiring protagonist, I can't help but recommend this futuristic dystopian experiment. Anybody after a short, stylish adventure, and willing to overcome some gameplay flaws will find something to love.

If you love a good story or you’re curious about the criminally under-explored world of Slavic mythology and folklore, definitely give Black Book a look. The card-battling elements aren’t the most enthralling, but compelling writing and an engaging, choice-driven narrative will keep you hooked for its surprisingly substantial duration.

Fire Tonight is a superb expression of being young, being in love, and being confused. Maya and Devin are great characters that I would love to see return again in another capacity, but our time with them here is far too short. Hopefully, if given the chance, they'll come back and be treated with a bit more world-building puzzles. Either way, I'm sure the music will be killer.

Dragon Star Varnir is surprisingly fun even though it is a victim of its own ambition. The game is overall satisfying and enjoyable, but starts to crumble a little under closer scrutiny. There is a lot to love here if you don't mind overlooking some of the flaws, especially if you are looking for a story-driven adventure.

Button City at its core is a cute, charming story about the trials of life (and how cool arcades are). With a memorable roster of identifiable characters and a unique style of presentation, it's easy to buy into its initial hype. Digging deeper in, various aspects aren't quite as polished as the surface allows witness to, especially those looking for a more varied gaming experience. Those willing to bear the brunt of passing time leisurely won't mind, though players craving a little more may be left disappointed.

Pokemon UNITE brought in some unique elements to the MOBA genre with its game-changing objectives, memorable roster, and simplified progressive system. And with the Pokemon brand being a very popular IP that people around the world know and love, Pokemon UNITE deserves a heartwarming welcome to the MOBA genre. Younger audiences and Pokemon fans at heart will sure have a blast playing this game.

Toodee and Topdee is well worth a look. With an innovative and interesting idea at its centre and dozens of puzzles to work through, this creative little game will have you scratching your head even as you resolve to play ‘just one more level’. It's clever, it's colourful and above all - it's fun!

DariusBurst Another Chronicle EX+ is a decent game that heavily leans into the arcade genre. It fully commits to the theme, sometimes at the expense of player enjoyment, although you can’t deny the immersion. Gameplay is quite repetitive, and overly challenging, meaning there’s a skill barrier to enjoyment. The high production value definitely wins the game some points, and the audio and graphics are both very impressive throughout. Whilst I have no doubt that fans of arcade games will enjoy this, the difficulty and unvaried nature of the game makes it relatively inaccessible to gamers outside the genre.

The Ramp achieves exactly what it promises: a simple experience that scratches your skateboarding itch. The ease of use and minimal effort required to drop in and execute some skate tricks is a testament to effective game design: if your core mechanic is perfect, you don't need fluff. Hyperparadise has crafted a masterpiece that improves your day in 15-minute increments, allowing players to turn off their brains and shred.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is a slice of gaming history, so being able to revisit it ten years later is an enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you are familiar with the franchise, or this is your first experience - it will definitely make for a pleasant one.

Super Sami Roll is undeniably a fun and charming game with a lot to love, from its pleasing art style to its fun gameplay. However some controls don't feel quite as tight as they should. And some sequences can feel a little too long between checkpoints and exits.

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.

Overall, for a DLC pack that has been requested for a long time, The Sims 4: Cottage Living met a lot of expectations. The animals are fun to care for and not too troublesome. Befriending wild animals such as birds and rabbits prove rewarding and worth the effort. Henford-on-Bagley beautifully captures the rural British lifestyle, completing the immersive living-in-the-countryside feel. The errands system is also good fun and rewarding, but is sadly only limited to Henford-on-Bagley and to certain residents. The competitions felt a little lackluster, as well as the collection of new objects for furnishing homes. Apart from this, Cottage Living is a great new addition to The Sims 4. If you want an authentic farming experience, you won't be let down.

Easy to pick up, easy to master; that's Boomerang X for you. The game teaches you its mechanics step by step, and in so doing you become a boomerang master until the credits roll. It's addictive by its very nature to draw out every last bit of adrenaline within you, and that's not even a complaint. Achieving a perfect state of flow throughout its 2hr base game campaign, Boomerang X will keep your wits twisting long after the final boss is defeated!

Despite its strengths, Neptunia ReVerse should have been so much more. The best parts of the original continue to hold up, with a hilarious script and engaging combat. Yet, this is a remake to a fault. The game looks basic for a PS5 game while the narrative ignores the larger cast. The new features like fishing are welcomed, but aren't implemented well enough. By adding very little and doing nothing to take advantage of the new hardware, Neptune's latest ultimately feels like a missed opportunity.

Sometimes it's hard to gauge just how much a developer personalizes their game with a soul in mind. Yet here, it's evident in the first few minutes. Raptor Boyfriend supplies a sufficient amount of humor and relatability to a story only somewhat within the mortal realm. No matter your choice, the presentation of the characters is only skin-deep; they all contain the deepness that any human can provide. Neglecting the considerable amount of nicks that bring it down as a replayable experience, this story has all the '90s flair to transport anyone to simpler times.

Mini Motorways is the ultimate blend of city management and arcade mechanics. Much like running a real city, you don't always know what your options will be in a week, but the population continues on. From the minimal art style and controls to the exciting pace of long runs, there is plenty within this seemingly small offering to enjoy. Suddenly identifying a game-ending traffic jam and heading it off before things get bad is satisfying, and there's always fun to be found in beating your own high score.

Combining sharp visuals, smooth animations and tight, responsive controls, Within The Blade is all-round a pleasure to play. The pleasing variety of weapons and tactics invites players to experiment and perfect their skills and execute levels as quickly and stealthily as possible. While it might be a bit thin in terms of story, it has a lot to offer for those who are looking for a challenging stealth platformer and have an appetite for destroying the hordes of evil.

As a whole Sky: Children of the Light is an extremely wonderful experience. Without having to pour any money into it, it is a very enjoyable game and is cleverly executed by thatgamecompany. It's charming in all the right ways and there are few faults on it. If you're searching for a new open world adventure for you and your friends to go on, then I highly recommend Sky: Children of the Light.

Although Minute of Islands is a game about someone who must save the world from toxic spores, it felt genuine and relatable. The way it handles themes such as anxiety and trauma is incredibly well done and thought-provoking. Though the gameplay can be a bit slow at times, it was worth getting through it just to experience Mo's journey.

As a whole, I found DC Super Hero Girls: Teen Power extremely enjoyable. I’d argue it to be fun for anyone who picks it up as it’s definitely something I haven’t got around to putting down yet. If you’re looking for something bursting with personality and something to enjoy for hours, this is definitely a game for you.

If you want a good narrative game that gives you great control and influence over the story and the characters, then you should definitely consider Where the Heart Leads. Because it contains so many different choices and outcomes, it's one of those games that you'll want to replay, so you can find out what may happen if you make different choices. The cast of characters are likable and intriguing, and their realistic flaws and scenarios draw you into their lives. This game will surely take you on a journey of reflection and exploration on how lives can be affected by seemingly the smallest of choices.

Out of Line is doubtless a polished experience, and an enjoyable one. It’s fun to get lost in the beautiful visuals, and the puzzles strike the right balance between challenging and unfair. Still, the vague story may prove frustrating for some, and the other characters do feel a little under-utilised. Nevertheless, it’s a game that will likely keep you entertained for its modest run time.

Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales is, on the whole, a brilliant game. Anyone who comes in expecting the next mainstream Witcher title is going to be disappointed, but perhaps less so than you might imagine. Despite being a different genre to the main action-RPG series, Thronebreaker perfectly captures the spirit and tone of the series and acts as a thrilling return to the Northern Realms. With deviously clever puzzles and challenging card games, backed with an interesting new story, Thronebreaker is well worth your time.

ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights is a gorgeous looking game that delivers on all fronts. Not only does it look and sound phenomenal, but the gameplay is smooth and varied, and it contains a moving story that develops the more you play. The game employs unique mechanics that captivate your attention, and it's really fun learning all your new skills. Aside from a few issues with the combat balancing, this game does not disappoint.

The latest in a series of games trying to find the next winning iteration of the roguelike deckbuilding genre, Roguebook has all the character and charm it needs to avoid being just another Slay the Spire clone. Introducing fresh and interesting new mechanics it proves to be a good addition to the genre, but not quite an amazing one.

A massive improvement over the original, Eiyu*Senki Gold - A New Conquest is an outstanding tactical RPG and a feel-good title all around. Simple yet endearing characters with a plot that just serves as a backdrop for waifu collecting, Eiyu*Senki Gold is well worth it.

Mighty Goose is a love letter to run and guns of yesteryear, yet in the modern era, remains fresh and full of new ideas to reinvent the genre in an incredibly fun way. It is a triumph that once again proves that Patreon is a fantastic resource to support developers that you believe in. Whether you play through it once, or drill down into its core to gain those high scores, Mighty Goose is an experience to remember.

As it stands, Mario Golf: Super Rush is an overall disappointment, especially for those already fond of the series and prefer solo play. Nintendo has stated that free updates will come to the game post-launch, though I don't suspect anything less than substantial new game modes will suffice in making this worth full retail cost. With some lacking graphical polish, an underwhelming single-player mode, and not much else to do, only those truly obsessed with the sport of golf will find immediate gratification. It's more like Mario Golf: Super Rushed.