A fun mix of Dark Souls and roguelike, and although the microtransactions create their own problems it does mean everyone can now experience a Suda51 game for free.

Not quite up to the same standards of its predecessors, but this is still an emotionally draining and beautifully realised story of friendship against the odds.

At times it feels like a reanimated corpse itself, but as mindless and predictable as it may be Dead Rising 4 is as much fun as the series has ever been.

Some of the best 2D Mario levels in years, but the lack of online options means the construction aspect is unnecessarily limited.

Destined to be as divisive as all modern Final Fantasy games, but it’s the story and characters that disappoint more than the capable combat and exploration.

Not a great trio of remasters (although also far from the worst) but Assassin’s Creed II’s best qualities still make it one of the highlights of the franchise.

It’s a shame it isn’t a full remake, but The Dark Descent remains one of the most frightening and atmospheric video games ever made.

The best theme park sim of the modern era, even if a few underdeveloped elements mean it’s not quite the ultimate roller coaster ride yet.

Fans of co-op shooters (and zombies) will love it, but the lack of modes and options does limit the appeal.

Playing as the bad guy has never been so disturbing, but despite all the nuanced decision-making the underlying gameplay is never as interesting as the premise.

Another engrossing example of traditional Japanese role-playing, that’s still accessible enough for anyone to enjoy – as long as they’ve played the first one.

The best Pokémon game yet, that expertly combines the best elements of the old games with a mountain of new features and wonderfully odd creatures.

The best Pokémon game yet, that expertly combines the best elements of the old games with a mountain of new features and wonderfully odd creatures.

Every bit as intelligent and daring as its predecessor, and if you’re prepared to be equally creative while playing it then Dishonored 2 offers almost endless rewards.

It’s still lacking a certain je ne sais quoi, but this is a definite improvement on the first game and a serious alternative to GTA V.

The dream of flight becomes reality with PlayStation VR. But the fantasy is a shallow and repetitive one, that you wake up from all too quickly.

BlazBlue goes out in a blaze of glory, and although it lacks new ideas it certainly isn’t short of characters, game modes, or thrilling action.

As a graphical showcase there’s nothing better on PlayStation VR, but in terms of gameplay there are far more entertaining tech demos available – let alone proper games.

One of the most influential video games of all time gets the remaster it deserves, and is still impressively entertaining after all these years.

Either Football Manager needs a complete overhaul or it should stop producing yearly sequels, because this year’s one is the most inconsequential yet.

An awkward mishmash of the innovative and the overly familiar, that in the end represents no clear step forward for the franchise.

Some of the best emulation work ever undertaken, it’s just a pity it’s been wasted on such a miserable collection of decidedly non-classic games.

A much better map than the last two and amongst the best of the season, while still leaving you wanting even more from Hitman’s episodic exploits.

One of the best Western style role-players ever made works better than it ever has before on consoles, but there’s only so much a new coat of paint can do to hide its age.

A superbly crafted 2D adventure that is a near perfect blend of new and old influences, in terms of both gameplay and the stunning visuals and music.

The increased role-playing elements add another interesting angle to an already accomplished franchise, but the cynical attempts to fleece parents’ wallets are hard to defend.

One of the best first person shooters of the generation, with significant improvements in depth and longevity – and even a half decent story mode.

Another genuinely great PlayStation VR title, that offers innovative gameplay and presentation rather than just tech demo novelty.