System Shock is an iconic game with much influence that still resonates. But the game did not age well with how its combat works. With the remake, we can see how, beneath that clunky oldness of the original, there is a great game which has ideas and themes which still resonate strongly. The freedom System Shock offers its players the to discover and play it along with its stellar exploration, voice acting and storytelling is worth the time.

The easiest way of summarising how well Beacon Pines works is by saying that it is abundantly clear in every frame that the developers cared. The story is sad, and funny, and intriguing, and the art style is unforgettable. The gameplay, while simple, introduces such a unique concept to facilitate its story that it doesn’t matter the entire thing can be played with a grand total of five buttons. This game is dripping with heart, and if you’ve any interest in mystery stories, I cannot recommend it more highly.

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.

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.

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.

Resident Evil 4 Remake is a masterclass in modernizing a tried and true classic game. Though not without faults, they are so few as to be insignificant to the overall experience. Every aspect of the game has been rebuilt in order to make the time spent as Leon Kennedy an utter joy. With a riveting story, rewarding gameplay, and gorgeous design, it is a masterpiece in every sense.

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.

Like any good superhero, Dispatch has a secret identity. On the surface, it’s a goofy, Office-style visual novel stuffed with fart jokes and the occasional bit of casual nudity. But that’s just the costume. Step closer, actually engage with the narrative, and it transforms into something much more sincere. It’s a story about the weight of our pasts, and what it means to finally move forward from them. It’s about choosing who you want to become instead of quietly accepting the role Fate hands you. I’m not even a little embarrassed to admit this game made me cry—yes, the same game where a drug-addicted bat monster gets handcuffed to a weight rack because he thought the angelic assassin was going to show him her boobs. Beneath the absurdity and the superpowers, it’s the real people who break through: the flawed, messy, painfully human characters who reach out and connect with you. That’s where Dispatch truly shines.

Blind Drive is a masterpiece. I haven't come across many games which can take your breath away in the first few minutes as this one did. I had a single session of almost 2 hours playing this bad boy before I even realised how much time had passed. Blind is very addicting and it's almost impossible to find any flaws with it. I played it on the Easy mode and I'm definitely going all the way to Blindfold mode to claim moral victory over the game. I highly recommend you to go show some love to Blind Drive and the devs behind this beauty.

Silent Hill 2 is everything we hoped for so many years. It takes the beautifully imperfect aspects of the original game and adapts them wonderfully in a new, amazing, and also beautifully imperfect remake. Living James' horrifying journey with modernized graphics and gameplay made me feel like a kid again. And even if I once thought otherwise, I'm now certain that no other developer studio could have done it better. Thank you, Bloober Team.

The first part of a duology that promises to be unforgettable, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage - Tape 1 lays the foundations for an even more intriguing sequel, Tape 2. By the end of this first part, you'll be left with just one question: what really happened that summer? What really happened that summer in 1995? And above all, what happens next?

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.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom improves on what many considered a masterpiece in Breath of the Wild. From expanding the locations you can explore, to the new abilities that give the player infinite control with their imagination, Tears of the Kingdom has it all. A few frame rate drops and inventory management can, at times, take away from the experience, but very rarely. Overall, Tears of the Kingdom is a must play for any fan of video games, and is an achievement that many games will strive to top for years to come.

If you like PowerWash Simulator, you’re going to love this DLC and if you love Alice in Wonderland, you’re going to love this DLC. If you find that you are empty on content right now, this DLC would not be a bad purchase for the price since it includes five full-fledged maps for you to complete. PowerWash Simulator is no stranger to giving out extra content both free and paid for if you’d like to continue to support FuturLab. If you’d like to explore more reviews on the other DLCs we have covered, visit our Warhammer DLC Review and Back to the Future DLC Review.

The original Super Mario Bros. is a game that has been there for me since childhood. It's always been a nostalgic security blanket, the video game equivalent of comfort food. It's nice and familiar, but not especially challenging or exciting. Super Mario Bros. 35 took this classic and truly gave it new life. I feel excited, tense and downright giddy about this game for the first time since I was a child.

The graphics and lighting make this one of the best looking games I have ever seen, especially on the current-generation of consoles.

Stray is a true ode to both adventure games and cats. The game is expertly crafted with satisfying gameplay, a brilliant art style, and an even better story. A strong contender for indie game of the year, Stray will dig it’s claws into you from the very beginning and it wont let go.

Baldur's Gate 3 is one of those unicorn games you encounter very rarely. It's well made, rich in content, and welcoming to gamers of all levels. Even if you've never heard of Baldur's Gate or dabbled in Dungeons and Dragons, there's at least one part of the game that will intrigue you. The narrative is expertly structured, combat is innovative and promotes ingenuity, and you can seamlessly enjoy your adventure alone or with friends. A game with this much freedom and content is going to entertain you for hours (literally I've played 50 hours of this game and I'm just scratching the surface). As I said before this game earned its Game of the Year award and Larian Studios should give themselves a big round of applause.

While the price point might detract some gamers, The Last of Us Part 1 needs to be checked out. If you already played the original game a bunch of times, there's still a lot of value present. Players that haven't experienced one of the best games of all time should buy the definitive way to play this masterpiece.

Enhanced with fantastic and fresh content, Disco Elysium: The Final Cut is a game that dances through the vulgar and the sublime in an experience that excels in delivering superb storytelling with compelling gameplay mechanics; it’s a hallmark of the genre that deserves every ounce of credit attributed to it.

Wednesdays doesn't try to wow you with flashy gameplay or plot twists. It's a quiet, honest and emotional experience of facing the past and learning to heal. It's the kind of game you play when you want something more personal - something that says something and makes you feel something. If you like narrative games, or crave a story that goes beyond surface drama, Wednesdays is definitely worth playing. It won't appeal to everyone - especially if you need fast-paced action or super-complex gameplay - but if you're open to something slower and more meaningful, it's a little gem that deserves your attention. You won't soon forget it.

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.

Rogue Legacy 2 is a captivating, addicting, and truly unforgettable experience. It doesn't just improve on the first game, it renders it wholly obsolete. It's a truly amazing roguelike, one of the best in the industry. The art is beautiful and the combat is buttery smooth. Everyone should play this game. Especially if you love pizza. And who doesn't love pizza?

Minds Beneath Us sets a new bar for the world of choice-driven narratives. Whether it is the story, the art, or even the gameplay, Bearbone Studio excels in their creation of a game that is both compelling and fun; Seperating itself from its competition. It's unique yet familiar and while it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I implore those who are searching for a taste of a good story or even for a player who wishes to experience a more cinematic style of gameplay to try this game out. Minds Beneath Us may be an eye opener to both narrative fans and gamers alike.

Final Fantasy XVI is the definitive real-time combat experience of the series. It expands the horizons of the franchise and mixes the concepts of RPG and Hack & Slash into one masterpiece. Being by far the most epic installment of the franchise yet, it delivers an astonishing soundtrack, a dark-themed story with deep characters and relationships, and an unmatched feeling in combat that even the most experienced will be in awe with.

Ori and the Blind Forest was already a fantastic game, but the Definitive Edition smooths out the edges and adds in extra content that slots in comfortably and adds to both the story and the gameplay. It looks brilliant, it sounds amazing, and it plays smoothly and satisfyingly. Be sure to pick this up if you’re a fan of the Metroidvania genre and fancy a challenge in an incredibly appealing package.

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.

Splatoon 3 remixes and refines what makes Splatoon so fun and wraps it all in a style infused lavish of color and creativity. Many shooters these days lack the spirit that is shown so well. Even comparing to Splatoon 2 this entry blows it out of the water with how much more it has going for it, from entertaining to fresh there's no shortage here! No matter how much content is not new, what the game does to mix things up really makes the game feel unique. With plenty of Splatfests and updates to come I am excited for even more content for this already Inkredible game. Splatoon 3 manages to continue to show that Splatoon is one of Nintendo's best new IPs, and it's shining rainbow of colors will only get brighter and better going forward!

In the gaming industry today, the multiplayer looter genre is by no means niche. But even with all the money thrown into these projects, most end up being mediocre due to unrealistic scope. Deep Rock Galactic by Ghost Ship Games manages to break the mold by creating a memorable experience in atmosphere, gameplay and cooperation. There are some limitations throughout, namely when it comes to story and graphics, but I never found these to hurt the immersion. The gameplay is addictively deep, while procedural generation and extensive loot keep me coming back for more. If you and your friends are fans of the multiplayer looter genre, or just love dwarves and space mining, you need not look any further than Deep Rock Galactic for your next gaming adventure.

StarVaders strikes a balance between accessibility and deep strategic layers. Whether you're a newcomer to the deckbuilding genre or a seasoned rogue strategist, there's something here for you. With tight mechanics, meaningful progression, and addictive replayability, StarVaders earns its place in the indie strategy spotlight.

Kudos to SEGA! The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog really shows what the developers are capable of. This inspired and creative game has already captured the hearts of many fans, and it captured mine alike. With its vibrant and immersive gameplay, this adventure is perfect to fill an afternoon with. Here's to hoping that SEGA sees the positive reception and makes more Sonic content like this. I already can't wait.

With a gripping, haunting narrative that isn't afraid to tackle darker themes, one of the best turn-based battle systems in RPG history, a gorgeous world to lose yourself in, and some of the best music and performances in years, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 feels like a miracle game. How Sandfall Interactive managed something this amazing on their first go around is a genuine Herculean achievement. This game is a love letter to the rich history of RPGs while also being the blueprint for the next step forward. This is my current Game of the Year frontrunner for 2025 and I can almost guarantee that if you love RPGs - whether you prefer turn-based or action - this game will blow you away.

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a masterfully made Tactical-RPG which brings both color and flair. If you are looking for a light hearted adventure carrying the spirit of the Mario + Luigi series look no further than this game. It features visually stunning environments and incredible music all meshed together alongside amazing gameplay that never gets old. What it lacks in challenge Sparks of Hope makes up for in pure fun that will keep you coming back to play. The amount of polish and effort here is astounding and makes the game worth your time.

Laugh Track is a game that broke me. I played it live on stream for this review, and I literally had to stop. I cried. I cursed. I walked away from it. And I can’t recommend it enough. It is hard—not from a difficulty standpoint, not like the visual novel equivalent of Hollow Knight—but in how heavy it can be. I have no doubts this is a divisive title. You’ll either be touched by it or think it’s pointless, and I don’t think many will land in between. And you know what? That’s okay. This game isn’t for everyone. But for those who need this game right now, at this moment in our history… it’s here. It sees you. Because of course it does—did you see how many eyes it has?!

Part rhythm game, part platformer, part boss rush, No Straight Roads takes the best parts of these genres and forms a fun, groovy whole that'll have your ears tingling, heart pumping, fingers twitching, and feet tapping. For Metronomik’s first game, you wouldn’t think it given how much of a blast No Straight Roads is. In fact, in this author’s opinion, the only major downside to it is that it feels too short. But even if that’s the case, the game doesn’t drag on to the point of fatigue, each little collectible or side mission or story beat sitting comfortably where it needs to be. I picked this game up for the premise alone, but the bosses and music definitely helped me stay.

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.

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.

This game is a masterpiece. It feels good to play, looks absolutely gorgeous and runs like a dream. The setting and story are similarly top tier, and I would have to dig deep to fault CONTROL: Ultimate Edition. It hasn't won a boatload of awards for nothing.

Do not pick up the game if you are looking for a fast-paced adventure heavy on whipping out six-shooters. Fans of real-time tactics should give it a look though because the gameplay here is top-notch. With Mimimi still improving the game with the Bounty Hunters update and level editor, Desperados III is a game you will want holstered when riding off into the sunset.

The biggest problem with trying to score a good game is figuring out what it deserves. Eastward has its issues, and as I've been saying, I don't think everyone would enjoy it as much as I have. However, I believe the best way to determine if a piece of art is good or not is based on how it engages you. I couldn't put Eastward down for three days straight. Nearly everyone I talked to about it commented on how they haven't seen me this excited about something in a long time. Maybe it was just in the right place at the right time, but I loved it! Give it a try! Maybe you'll love it as much as I do!

Steelrising is a masterclass on creating mechanics and controls that work in perfect harmony. It reinvigorates a genre that's quickly becoming over-populated, and stands out as an example of extraordinary game design. Steelrising will go down as one of the best releases of 2022.

Crimson Desert is one of the most expansive RPGs I have played. It is a bold open-world experience with rich lore, atmospheric immersion, and dynamic gameplay. Despite the vastness of the world that overshadows the whole story and narrative, it still grips you and keeps you engaged with pursuing new mysteries. It is an addictive game, especially due to its scale. I am still finding new things to this date, and every time I feel amazed. One of the great reasons that I recommend this game to every RPG enjoyer is the care from the Devs. The devs are still hard at work pushing out patches and working on further improvements and features requested by the players.

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.

Aliens: Dark Descent is a heart-pounding game that stays true to the franchise's roots, bringing action-packed sequences paired with horrifying atmosphere where dangers lurk around every moment. From the terrifying enemy AI to the Unique Quirks that define every soldier at your disposal, Aliens: Dark Descent is the perfect recipe for those who seek a definitive Aliens experience.

9 Monkeys of Shaolin should be on every GOTY list for the excellent package the team has put together. The combat feels great, the art style and graphics look fantastic, and the voice acting and storyline were executed wonderfully. If beat 'em ups are your jam, or if you just want to have fun with a game, this should be a must-buy. Do yourself a favor and get into this incredible title.

3 Out of 10 is an outstanding mixture of cartoon and game, which gives an ironic look at the video game industry. It's a genuinely funny title, which at the same time makes use of all of the power of Unreal Engine 4 and manages to handle serious subjects. The season ends with a huge cliffhanger, which isn't bad at all. But there's a flip side to that coin, though, since I cannot wait a year to see more misadventures of my beloved characters.

Whether you're a long-time fan revisiting Nosgoth or a newcomer discovering it for the first time, the new versions of these two classics offer a fascinating experience that honors the legacy of the originals while incorporating modern enhancements. With their captivating storytelling and polished gameplay, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered is a shining example of how classic games can be modernized for a new generation.

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.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins revitalizes the Musou franchise with a fresh story centered on an amnesiac Protagonist, innovative gameplay mechanics like Bravery and Squad Tactics, and breathtaking visuals. Combining classic 1 vs. 1000 battles with new systems and perspectives, it offers an engaging experience for both fans and newcomers. Omega Force and Koei Tecmo has delivered a promising and polished entry that redefines the series' potential.

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition perfects and fine-tunes one of the most venerated RPGs of the last decade. While the English voice acting and the occasional resolution dip is disappointing, they made such a meaningless difference that it didn't matter in the end. The gorgeous visual upgrade, the wide and varied locations, the deeply entertaining battle system, and the exquisite soundtrack all add together to one of the best RPG experiences possible.

Simply put, Undusted: Letters from the Past is one of those games that feels close to perfection. It has a beautiful story that sucks you into the life of Adora and her parents, addictive gameplay that feels satisfying, a realistic art style that oozes nostalgia, and a haunting soundtrack to soothe your soul. Although this game only takes a few short hours to complete, there's no doubt it will touch your heart strings and make you feel nostalgic yourself - and want to go through your own old stuff to see what stories and memories they uncover.

God Of War Ragnarok is an instant addition to the collection of PlayStation classics, standing as one of the best games of all time. It manages to outdo its predecessor in every way possible and despite some of its issues with its ending and a few plot points feeling rushed, it does not take anything away from the masterpiece this title is. Santa Monica Studio continues to produce excellent and masterful experiences with Kratos, and the door is most certainly open for more.

Jetpack Joyride 2 is a great and wonderful addition to any gamer's collection. The concept is solid, and the gameplay is a blast to enjoy by those that decide to give this video game a try. Once the player initially gets the hang of it, Jetpack Joyride 2 will fly on by with complete addiction. If you haven't tried this game, then you should.

Hogwarts Legacy provides an expansive world of magic and mystery. With a main story that is both whimsical and gritty, and over a hundred side quests, there are countless reasons to ply out an enchanting life in the game. Occasional graphical issues are noticeable but overall negligible to the abundant sense of wonder. Hogwarts Legacy is a spellbinding and enchanting experience not to be missed.

For those who enjoy an old skool FPS and want a great time, this can’t be recommended highly enough. Bounding Box have nailed that run & gun feeling with excellent graphic & audio presentation throughout, accompanied by a cathartic soundtrack which propels you through an excellent campaign full of well-designed set pieces. This features some of the best gameplay since DOOM(2016) and for an indie title, that is high praise. Get it played.

All in all, this is a great game! It is jam-packed with story and lore, features classic 2D pixel art and 8-bit music too. It has brought classic genres to a new light in fun and interesting mashups that vary in difficulty especially with the 'glitches'. My only complaint about this game is the mislabeled controls on the PC version.

CrossCode is one of the greatest games of all time. It manages to combine varied top-down combat with ingenious puzzles in a focused and purposeful way. Its beautiful graphics, gorgeous music, heartwarming story, and topical message make this a game you cannot miss.

Although it has what sounds like a simple and mundane concept, Librarian: Tidy Up the Arcane Library! does a fantastic job of flipping this around and transforming the game into something addictive and relaxing. It works brilliantly as a casual puzzle game, creating a unique twist on the hidden objects and sorting genre. What's especially great is that there's no strict way to play this game; while every bookshelf must be filled, you can take as long or slow as you like, do whatever method fits you. Librarian: Tidy Up the Arcane Library! is simply outstanding and I would greatly recommend this game to anyone.

I'm going to go so far as to say that Paradise Killer is a masterpiece. This isn't to say it's perfect. The music is top-tier, the mystery is deep and twisted, the world is exciting and interesting to explore with some lovely visuals. The characters are all well designed and compelling. What's not to like?

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.

Crypt Custodian is a great game. It’s story is simple but defined by love, loss and resolve. The exploration along with the excellent music, made it such a comfortable experience. Then there is enjoyable combat and great boss encounters, with plenty of items & upgrades to build out your character Pluto. While there is map overuse, whether you play this for 15 hrs or 40, you should have a great time with this.

Airborne Kingdom is a work of art and the developers have absolutely nailed the concept to perfection. It brings something completely new to the tycoon games genre with a rich and detailed story to accompany it. The game is surprisingly well polished and I had a gala of time playing and reviewing it. There were hardly any negatives to the game and the only area of concern was the less responsive camera system. But that is nothing a few patches can't fix! I am sure I will be playing this title for a long time and this will surely turn into an addiction!

Dordogne is the perfect game to play in the summer. It may only be a few hours long, but it's long enough to leave an impression on you, one that'll have you feeling reflective and nostalgic yourself. The unique art style and wistful music really brings this game to life, and the immersive and hands-on gameplay stops this game from being just an interactive movie with an intriguing story. All-in-all, if you're looking for a game with a good story, engaging gameplay, gorgeous graphics and music, then Dordogne is exactly what you're looking for.

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.

Every once in a while, a game comes around that takes the world by storm, becoming an instant classic. Not only is Elden Ring one such game, it is also one of the most profound among them. FromSoftware’s first foray into the open world genre is nothing short of breathtaking. It effortlessly balances exploration and tough-as-nails action gameplay in a way that has seldom been seen before. While not entirely flawless, it manages to instill a sense of wonder that will make even the most hardened of players feel like a kid again. Although it stumbles, Elden Ring is still leaps and bounds ahead of the competition.

After the bar set by its predecessors, BioShock Infinite had a lot to live unto yet it carried the legacy of the franchise perfectly. It does suffer from few gameplay related problems but those can be easily forgiven. In closure, anyone who can afford to play this game should play it at least once.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is without a single doubt the most ambitious FF game to date and drives the story to a much better-crafted concept than its predecessor. It is massive, it expands and upgrades several aspects that previous games of the series have failed to construct. Even with its few but notorious flaws, it marks a benchmark on modern FF games and gives Square Enix the crucial responsibility to make the conclusion of this trilogy as memorable as we all expect it to be.

Fire Emblem Engage is a entertaining fun entry in the long running FE series. It will keep you hooked with its silly atmosphere and addicting gameplay. If you have ever wanted to play the video game version of an Saturday morning anime cartoon then pick it up right away! It is one of the most "Engaging" Strategy RPGs out there with a beautiful style. A great celebration of the series and a love letter to fans of any FE era.

The Rising Tide is, objectively speaking, the best piece of DLC content a single-player Final Fantasy game has ever received. It adds a few more hours to an epic experience that already felt complete and expands it slightly but beautifully, being carefully and naturally integrated into the main game. Another must-have for the enjoyers of the most genre-defying entry of the franchise.

Boomer shooters from indie developers have been quite successful lately and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun might be just what the genre needed right now. This throwback FPS has you mowing down countless hordes of Chaos cultists, mutants, and marines alike with a spectacular arsenal of weapons from the grimdark universe. It's the perfect game for fans of the franchise and those seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey through the grim future.

UnderHero is a hidden gem of a game with a brilliant soundtrack, a great cast of characters, and an engaging combat system. However, the game is dragged down slightly due to issues in the game's pacing. Its humour is consistently witty, and its story often emotional and inspired. It is a must-play game for anyone who wants a game similar to the early Paper Mario titles.

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.

Main Assembly is a joyous mixture of a lot of individually strong elements to make one big promising game. The game has everything to offer for a range of skill levels and has hours and hours of content to dive into. The multiplayer section of the game is a delight to hang around with your friends. You can truly create as much as your heart fancies and barring the slow driving mechanics, there isn't any other feature of this game that may discourage you from playing more!

Haven is a delightful character-driven action-RPG that absolutely deserves your attention. From the graphical style to the soundtrack, to the excellent writing and voice acting and the myriad interconnected systems at play, the game is polished, charming and just the right amount of challenge. If you habitually mash the ‘skip cutscene’ button then this perhaps isn’t for you, but if you want to lose yourself in a great story with wonderfully realised characters, don’t hesitate to pick this up.

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.

This game is well made. It has the storylines and concepts down pat. Kimono Cats knew where they wanted to go throughout the game and how to lead the player. The graphics are sweet and warm. Makes for an excellent match for the whole family. Plus, it can be very addicting. You could easily find yourself spending hours playing it in a single day, trying to collect the items for your village in the game.

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.

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.

Knight Swap 2 offers a wonderfully unique puzzling challenge to fans of the genre while keeping things simple enough for anybody to enjoy. It's a refined mobile-like experience that fits right into the ecosystem of the Switch. While it's easy to get into a nice flow, the controls can often times slow down what would otherwise be a seamless system. Regardless, the ingenius audio design and minimalistic style make it easy to get lost in a nearly endless, and sometimes frustrating, puzzling atmosphere.

When I first started Farewell North, I had in my mind a score of 7-8. Now, after finishing the game, I can confidently give it a solid 9 out of 10. It's just such a beautiful game on so many levels; its storytelling, gameplay, graphics, and soundtrack. To be honest, I'm having a hard time finding anything bad to say about it. This is a game not to be overlooked, as you'll be pleasantly surprised by what it has to offer, and what you'll take away from it.

So what makes Huntdown so great? It’s the satisfaction. It’s the way the tiny pixelated people burst into flame when you roast them with a stolen flamethrower; it’s the bits of meat scattering across the screen when a cluster grenade you’ve thrown pulverizes your enemies. It’s the rage you feel when the boss you’ve spent 45 minutes trying to defeat kills you when he has 1 hp left. It’s the elation you feel when you finally beat him.

Hero-U: Rogue to Redemption is the perfect continuation of a genre. The same developers who helped bring classic adventure titles to life are the ones who brought this title to life, with the help of some Kickstarter backers. It's a nearly perfect game for those who played adventure titles in the past or players who enjoy exploring dense, witty, and mysterious worlds (with a splash of fantasy along the way).

Franken is a brilliantly written and designed Indie JRPG and in all honesty, is possibly one of the best written games of 2022. With a sharp and well-written script, there is bound to be something you'll find funny along the way. However, the title might be too short and lacking in gameplay nuance for some.

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.

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.

Blades of Fire provides an unmissable experience with a fantastic crafting gimmick alongside brutal combat. A Story that's simple to get into with easily digestible lore to dive into. Some fantastic enemy designs, fun bosses, and some great no hand holding exploration. I implore everyone to not miss this game during these busy months in the world of video games.

Room to Grow is a game with a simple concept but an astonishing amount of depth. With over 100 levels, many of which really are wonderfully challenging, and a well-rounded collection of anti-frustration features, this is a puzzle game you can keep coming back to whenever you need to lose yourself in the moment for a little while.

ScourgeBringer is a beautiful game with intuitive combat and bucketloads of style. The difficulty curve is sharp, but if you can power through it you’ll find yourself ensconced in a tough but rewarding roguelike with punchy gameplay and a beautiful look to it.

There is frankly no getting away from it. Pizza Tower is a fantastic platformer sporting some great levels, rock-solid gameplay, an amazing soundtrack, and brilliant animation. It quite possibly will be one of the best indie titles to release this year. And could be in the running for game of the year. However, as good as it is it can be repetitive at times and it could be too difficult for some.

Hitman 3 is a worthy end to a fantastic trilogy which does justice to this legendary franchise. Its willingness to put the power into the gamer's hand gives a sense of freedom which few other games can rival. A must-buy for fans of the stealth genre.

All in all, TENS! is a fun little puzzler. It’s a little light on story, but there’s a degree of structure and progression in its Adventure Mode, and the gameplay provides just enough variation on its central ideas to keep you on your toes. It takes a single puzzle concept and just trims all the fat from that one idea, and honestly, the result is very well-executed. Play it fast, play it slow, play it carefully or throw your dice around the board with wild abandon – just make sure you get those tens.

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.

Sumire is a beautiful and emotional roller coaster ride that is a balance of beauty and darkness like no other. The entire package - art, story, writing, sound design, and gameplay - reveals a lovingly crafted experience. Sumire is a game that could convince you that the first step to a whole new life is one perfect, courageous day.

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.

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.

Although I'd like to see Capcom go further in their story modes by adding a more consistent story, Street Fighter 6 is an absolute blast and a perfect jumping point for those looking to get into the fighting genre. The inclusion of the Drive Gauge Bar adds plenty of new strategy beyond just landing combos and the amount of content packed inside this game to help players get better is unrivaled. Aided by energetic visuals and a confidence in almost all aspects, Capcom has once again kept their winning streak going.

The first difficult decision players must make is whether or not to purchase Until Dawn Remaster. I'd argue that those that never experienced the original should certainly pick up this game. This is a remaster that successfully breathes new life into the 2015 original. Apart from some shaky frames, Until Dawn Remaster excels in just about everything it set out to do, and I believe justifies its existence. I'd also argue that those that have already experienced this adventure will be able to find new enjoyment here, albeit at a lower price point.

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.