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.