In theory, that sounds fun. In practice, it feels like heading back to basic computer science class and learning how to program with a new language that will never be applicable on other platforms.

In a time when sneering, ironic detachment remains in fashion, Insomniac Games has created the rare modern masterpiece with no convoluted agenda, no subtext — just so many reasons to smile and laugh.

There are so many borrowed ideas that you’re bound to find something you like about this game.

Built like a Disneyland of horror tropes and gore, the eponymous village funnels you toward gory sights and sounds, with Ethan circling a drain of carnage.

I didn’t get very far in Returnal, and it’s not for lack of trying. The game is tough for me — and I play “Dark Souls” to relax. [Impressions]

MLB The Show 21’ isn’t perfect, but it remains the best baseball simulation game out there. And it’s not particularly close.

It gives the player just enough story and intrigue to press on through a grindy midgame focused on revisiting maps.

Nier Replicant is a must-play for anyone who loved “Automata,” a game some praise as one of the finest ever created.

Wild Rift’s approach to mobile gaming feels more like a premium, paid product, such as a $4 app in the store, but without the paywall.

Valheim is a good, even great, game. But these days, games have to be more than just games. And Valheim is pretty good at that, too. [Early Access Score = 80]

Maquette is an excellent look at how these two characters grow — I just wish the puzzles could have evolved in the same way.

This is probably the best Monster Hunter game to date, and an easy, early contender for 2021′s best game.

Persona 5 Strikers is probably the most innovative Musou game in years, thanks to its closeness to the core “Persona” formula.

Even with the Bowser’s Fury miss, the content is worth it. If you want one of the best and most versatile multiplayer experiences to date for the Nintendo Switch, online or offline, go with Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury. [3D World = 90; Bowser’s Fury = 60]

I expected something scary, but the impeccable sound design, terrifying enemy encounters and clever puzzles make it worth revisiting, even after completion.

The Medium is uninspired, from puzzles to characters. If you’re looking for an interesting world to explore, it delivers with stunning art direction, but for those looking for a richer experience, The Medium feels skin deep.

What feature, or lack thereof, would compel a Call of Duty fan to buy or skip a new entry at this point? It plays fine, and it’s the most recent one. That’s usually enough.

This PlayStation 5 remake is a blessing for those of us who traveled through Boletaria 11 years ago.

Despite beating the game, I find myself returning to Astro’s Playroom for its pure joy.

It’s a new intellectual property, albeit set in the “played out” world of Greek mythology, and built from the foundations of the “Assassin’s Creed” series. And like most Ubisoft games, the writing and character work leaves a lot to be desired.

As the final credits rolled on “Twin Mirror,” I was baffled, having witnessed five hours of an uneven, dull mystery that never finds its footing.

An exciting story and detailed world are overshadowed by an abundance of bugs, misogynistic writing and all-too-familiar game mechanics.

Scott, his girlfriend Ramona Flowers, his drummer and ex Kim, and lead singer Stephen Stills are back in all their retro brawler glory, and really, it’s like Ubisoft barely touched the old game. They didn’t need to.