If you love the detective genre, then you will adore the challenge that awaits. With some interesting and bizarre crimes to solve, colourful characters and vivid era-specific imagery, it’s a treat for the senses. However, even with all these positives, it was missing something! I can’t ignore the rinse and repeat character models, the rehash of many scenarios, and the lack of interaction. It left me wanting more, as I could see its potential. Despite its shortcomings, I recommend you to buy it.

Firefighter Simulator - The Squad is a fun multiplayer simulation title. Work together to fight fires, save people, and complete simple tasks. You'll be judged on your speed and professionalism, so work fast to save the day.

Europa is a heartfelt and beautiful adventure title. However, it is far too short. This was a shame as I loved the vibrant world and the interesting story. Accordingly, I wish the developers had made it much longer.

Encased is a decent RPG with extraordinary worldbuilding. It might not reinvent the wheel, but it certainly brings a worthwhile adventure that deserves to be experienced.

MindsEye has gone through a rotten time. The early reviews were fair, but the developer has worked incredibly hard to make their game work. It is now fun, challenging, and the plot is great to witness. Although some will turn up their noses, I think you should give it a go.

Floppy Knights is a fun, whimsical, and colourful deck-building title. Its story is silly and its mechanics are easy to understand. What's more, it is moreish, challenging, and can be played casually.

Winter Burrow is a cute and wholesome adventure title. However, it treads familiar ground and this may disappoint hunters of original action. I enjoyed the calm and adventurous moments, the simple quests, and the visuals.

Super Mega Zero is a tight precision and puzzle platformer with shoot 'em up elements. Simply touch an upgrade and switch forms to go from classic, straight-forward platforming to the more puzzle-like action number system or Shoot' Em Up gameplay.

For me personally, the lack of technical issues elevated the experience from “worth checking out” to genuinely engrossing. While others may remember their time with Echoes of the End as marred by stutter and frustration, I’ll remember mine as a seamless journey through a beautifully crafted world, one that managed to capture both my eyes and my emotions without ever breaking immersion. So here’s my verdict: if you’re fortunate enough to avoid the technical troubles that others report, you’re in for a rewarding adventure. Echoes of the End may not redefine the genre, but in the right conditions, it proves that sometimes a game doesn’t need to be perfect to leave a lasting impact.

Drill Deal - Oil Tycoon is a wonderful Voxel simulation title. Manage an oil rig in an array of colourful and dangerous locations. Strike up deals, battle pirates, and overcome every QTE. It's fast-paced, demanding, but oh so moreish.

Cookie Cutter is a gory Metroidvania that is great for veterans and newcomers alike. With evolving gameplay and some classic genre tropes, this will keep you entertained. Furthermore, the mindless violence is captivating. However, it doesn't break the mould and that was disappointing.

King of the Arcade is a fun 80s-inspired romp. With colourful characters, interesting games, and an underdog story, this will make you laugh throughout. I adored the unique take on classic arcade titles and the short but sweet plot. My only complaint is that it isn't long enough. Consequently, I hope the developers add more content.

Zooseum doesn't evolve the basic formula of Two Point Museum too much, but the animals are adorable, the simulation gameplay is deep and the humour balances the perfect amount of chuckles and groans.

Long Live the Queen has so many skills you need to achieve to be your best. Plenty of skills which you will be required to focus on and gain experience. The better you do, the better the ending of the game results will become, as you will be an awesome leader and a great Queen.

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets is an adventure platforming title for kids aged 7+. This colourful and monster-filled affair has a straightforward plot and some interesting cinematic. Furthermore, the rudimentary platforming elements and collectables ensure that younger players can enjoy every moment. Word of warning; Parents will hate it!

Dance of Cards is a ruthless adventure where twists and turns punctuate the action. Though I wasn't a fan of the finale, the luck and card games kept me interested throughout. If you want a challenge, then this could be the game for you.

Severed Steel is a brutally fast and unforgiving FPS. You must use your special powers to slow down time, kill your enemies, and be victorious. Though many of the stages are short, there are plenty of reasons to return. With smooth and unusual gameplay, this is a bizarre but moreish title to tackle.

Despite these shortcomings, No Umbrellas Allowed offers a unique and engaging experience for players who enjoy narrative-driven sims with a dash of mystery. The atmosphere of the rain-drenched city, the intrigue surrounding the Fixerain, and the act of uncovering hidden value in everyday objects all contribute to a memorable journey.

Farming Simulator 25 is a relaxing but complex simulation experience. If you have played the franchise, you'll feel right at home. However, newbies may feel swamped by the content and lack of hand-holding. Yet, once you get over this hurdle, it is wonderful to play.

Dragon Ruins II is a brilliant old-school experience that takes you back to classic dungeon crawling gameplay. It is dark, pixelated, and amazingly retro.

For fans of games like Gris, or even Undertale, Willow Guard offers a similarly resonant experience—one where the story and atmosphere linger long after the story is wrapped up. It’s a game that rewards patience, contemplation, and empathy. And in a genre often dominated by spectacle, Willow Guard reminds us of the power of subtlety.

Tactical Takedown won’t dethrone the gaming heavyweight triple A games, but it doesn’t need to. This instalment into the turtles is a fan-friendly and original turn-based spin on the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. For strategy newcomers, Tactical Takedown is accessible; and for genre veterans, it is a palate-cleanser with nostalgia and fun.

While Dusk Diver 2 might fall short of greatness due to the battle system and dungeon design missing a few features, there is still magic here – with its relaxing atmosphere, personality in spades and still addictive action – making this a good choice for those who wish to indulge in a harmless and enjoyable action RPG without the need to schedule an entire month to complete it.

Wall World is a rogue-lite adventure title set in a sci-fi environment. Furthermore, the action is challenging and it will test you from the off. Though I loved it, the typical genre grind can become repetitive.

This gaming miracle is more than just a historical footnote to marvel at from afar with a neat combo system and gorgeous 2D aesthetic that makes it a must-play for platforming enthusiasts. There are also some nice touches such as a remixed soundtrack and some notes from the developer which are all gravy and should most definitely garner the publisher some well deserved praise, but even so, it’s still a shame more effort wasn’t made to add more playable content, even if a lower price point attempts to soften the blow.

Operator 112 is a fun but challenging experience. The simple concept can be deceiving, but the never-ending problems and management elements keep you busy. If you love hectic action, then you'll enjoy this tactical simulation game.

Barbie Project Friendship is an upbeat game that focuses on feel-good action. Moreover, it is perfect for younger gamers as the missions and mini-games are easy to complete. Adults will find it repetitive and tedious. Yet, its intended audience will adore every colourful second.

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club will make fans of the franchise smile. It is fun, silly, and easy to play. Furthermore, I love the story, the characters, and the simple mini-games. The perfect game for kids and lovers of Peanuts.

Aeterna Noctis is great. A game that’s sure to impress and delight its audience, the people who are looking for a very hard, huge metroidvania. It needed more polish to truly shine, but even as it stands it’s quite surprising, incredibly big, hauntingly beautiful, atmospheric and fun in a specific, agonizing way. If that’s what you want, you can’t get wrong with Aeterna Noctis.

Ravenous Devils is a gruesome and relentless horror cooking simulation title. You'll love the simple graphics, eerie sounds, creepy plot, and excellent controls. Furthermore, the action is maddening but moreish. Sadly, it is held back by a short story, a lack of replay value, and poor sound bites. However, don't let these issues put you off.

Hero Seekers delivers a classic RPG experience with a nice twist. VANGUARD offers a nice change of pace despite the old-school approach and familiar mechanics. If you love the genre, you will not be disappointed.

For a game that had to be entirely re-designed and re-dressaged, Them’s Fightin’ Herds is an impressive barn stormer that comes out swinging, with an effective mix of the 2D adventure genre and fighting formula that appeals to both the offline and online crowds.

Fights in Tight Spaces is a challenging rogue-like tactical deck-builder. With striking but simple aesthetics and moreish action, this is tough to put down. However, a heavy reliance on luck is frustrating and undermines many of the phenomenal elements.

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R is a fast-paced fighting title that can be played solo or with others. Furthermore, it captures every essence of the franchise and capitalises on many of the much-loved characters. With interesting stage design and tough but enjoyable challenges to complete, this will be enjoyed by many gamers.

Seduction: A Monk's Fate is a dark and eerie puzzle adventure title that'll send shivers down your spine. Its small chapters and logical problems are juxtaposed by QTEs that'll test your reactions. It's an unusual blend of mechanics that works well with the theme.

Taxi Life -VIP City Guide is another addition to the base game. This time you can freely drive and deliver the best VIP tour. Though it adds freedom, there is no limited additional content to enjoy. Accordingly, replay value may be restricted.

Smurf Kart is a perfect family-style game that anyone can play. It’s amusing and easy, just what I expect from the Smurfs. The karts are all unique and have their own character that rides them, allowing the player a choice between 12 to decide upon. There is no wait to unlock a character, you get to enjoy all of them right away, which I love. Plus, even for an easy game, it could use some more classic Smurf sound effects from the characters and add a few new fun tracks or rewards to be achieved. Otherwise, it’s not a bad game, and maybe a bit easy for everyone to win a race for the first time.

This 1st floor does a great job at grabbing my attention for the series as a whole. I can see the passion put into the game, despite some of the just okay aspects that I hope get improved in later games. I will certainly be keeping my eye on this series, and I would recommend mascot horror fans to do the same!

While this latest entry in the Atelier Series may not excel in every mechanic it employs, it has clearly mastered one. Its complete realisation of the alchemy gameplay is a consistent pleasure to play. Its shortcomings minor and major in its visuals, story, or combat are routinely overshadowed by the satisfaction of improving your alchemical skills. Provided you know what you’re getting into, you’re sure to enjoy your time stirring the pot.

KARMA: The Dark World is a bold and thought-provoking experience that excels in storytelling, atmosphere, and immersive world-building. While it may not appeal to those looking for fast-paced action, it is a must-play for fans of psychological thrillers and dystopian narratives.

Flooded is a strange reversed city builder. This morbidly amusing title will test your patience and management skills. Furthermore, it asks you to happily sacrifice your work for the greater good! Can you balance loss and progress? Complete each quest, work quickly, and save the miners.

Robotry! is tough but enjoyable physics-based adventure game. You must learn new skills, find collectables, and control each of the floppy legs. You'll fall, fail, and fall again as you complete your strange journey.

Moto Rush Reborn is a hectic, fast-paced, and fun arcade racer. Although it is a little repetitive, it offers enough variety to keep you entertained. I love the clean graphics, hectic audio, and tight controls. Furthermore, it is as casual or hardcore as you like.

Knight vs Giant: The Broken Excalibur is a cruel and challenging rogue-like title. Can you explore a fantasy realm and save Camelot? Use the skills and powers of your fallen knights to slay every foe you face. Furthermore, no playthrough is ever the same. As such, this oozes replay value and longevity. However, it doesn't quite hit the levels found in Hades.

Life Eater might not be perfect, but the eerie tale and immersive gameplay make it stand out. With its clever puzzles and time management system, it grabs your attention right from the start. It shows the creativity of its developers and gives players a memorable experience. Whether you’re intrigued by its horror story or enjoy a challenge, Life Eater is a game worth exploring.

Alive is a game that’ll get under your skin. What’s more, its creepy plot will resonate with many in these desperate times. This to one side, if you love either puzzling games or escape rooms, you’ll cherish every moment. Can you escape your new virtual prison? Solve the puzzles, piece together the madness, and potentially win the life-changing prize.

Call of the Wild: The Angler is a realistic fishing simulation title. With an expansive and stunning world to explore, you can lose yourself for hours. Fish, help others, or simply relax, the choice is yours.

DreamWorks Gabby's Dollhouse: Ready to Party is a fantastic game for younger gamers. It is safe, colourful, and full of exciting mini-games. Furthermore, they can be left to solve every challenge without adult guidance.

Children of the Sun carves out its own niche with a bold and memorable identity. The game takes a “less is more” approach to its mechanics, but the variety of situations you encounter with those mechanics keeps things fresh and engaging. It’s just a pity that the experience is over too soon, leaving you wanting more from this stylish blend of paranormal mystery, occult horror, and creeping paranoia. I still had a lot of fun with it and something tells me we will hear about Children of the Sun again in the future.

I think Telmari is a game that could be amazing on mobile, it’s simple style and aesthetic seem perfect for small screens. The controls are also simple if your worried about them being confusing or difficult to work with.

SpellForce III Reforced is a wonderful hybrid title that'll appeal to many. Sadly, its multi-faceted approach reduces its depth, but this shouldn't put you off. It has taken long enough to arrive on console, so sit back and enjoy the crazy ride.

Unfortunately Sword and Fairy is not a case of ‘What you see is what you get’, as although the music and presentation is top notch, the game is unable to maintain its high level of quality across the board, so even though the story does intrigue, it dabbles in a bit too much mediocrity to truly recommend this to everyone, despite its eye-popping strengths.

This game is quite amusing and entertaining. It’s full of beautiful scenes, nifty-looking characters that I’ve not seen in any other game, and a few minor issues, but everything is well-designed. I mean it’s practically perfect from start to finish and everything in between. The world is gorgeous and the characters fit the story quite well. Each with their own personal spicy attitude and mannerisms.

Is this game for me, probably not, but it did put up a challenge to play! Regardless, don’t let my negative experiences make you feel unable to take on the challenge and try it out. There are still plenty of interesting things and levels to enjoy. It is just going to put you to a whole new challenge, how well you can move through each level and survive without defeat.

Akka Arrh is a strange and surreal arcade title that nearly never made the light of day. With psychedelic graphics, a booming soundtrack, and weird mechanics, this is aimed at a niche audience. However, this crazy title can be enjoyed by everyone as you lose yourself in the moment. My only complaint is that things can get a tad hellish.

It successfully achieves what it sets out to do however it could use some polish in the way it presents itself and its story.

While it is no doubt disappointing that this isn’t a full collection, at half the price of a newly-released game, Monster Boy Collection still not only offers value for a discerning fan, but is jam-packed full of retro goodness that simply never gets old.

Taxi Life: A City Driving Simulator is a fun and interesting simulation title. With plenty to see and some enjoyable tasks to complete, this will keep you busy. However, a lack of special events and activities ensures that this is repetitive. Furthermore, I couldn't make the radio work and that was disappointing.

Let's Revolution! is a Minesweeper-inspired rogue-lite that is simple to understand. However, the action is moreish and I loved the varied heroes. Moreover, the casual and short playtime keeps you focused on each tactical layer. Sadly, it can be repetitive and gamers may become frustrated with the trial and error.

Rain World is a cruel and often unfair Metroidvania title. You must explore a vast world full of predators and danger. Moreover, you'll learn new skills and use them to progress further. However, your foes will also evolve and this makes it a tough but rewarding experience.

The Fall of the Elena Temple is a wonderful old-school title that combines platforming and puzzle elements. Furthermore, the fixed-screen perspective allows the developer to incorporate basic mechanics and clever stage design. Sadly, the basic gameplay and lack of story prevent it from truly excelling.

Tip Top: Don't Fall! is an amazing arcade climbing title. You must traverse some challenging rock faces as you balance stamina and speed. With everything against you, you must consider risk and reward as well as the permadeath mechanic. Thankfully, its procedurally generated stages and tough action keep you coming back for more.

RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE is a fun and clever adventure title. There is a hint of retro gameplay and some enjoyable cheeky moments. Though the opening few hours can distract you, I suggest pushing through for a great time.

Sail Forth is a cute and fun adventure title. With procedurally generated mechanics and a vast world to explore. Sadly, though, its story lacks depth and lore, and the action can become repetitive. Consequently, the shortcomings prevent it from truly excelling.

Soulstice is an interesting hack 'n slash title with a captivating plot. Focusing heavily on combat mechanics, the developers have delivered a slick and exciting adventure game. Furthermore, the excellent visuals and incredible audio help to set the scene.

Illusion of L'Phalcia is a decent old-school RPG with a polished dated aesthetic. Unlike some of its peers, this is challenging and will test your tactical mindset.

Astronite is a cruel and tough Metroidvania experience. What's more, its 1bit graphics and synth music ensure it has an old-school appeal. However, its lack of hand-holding and its unfairly brutal ways will put many players off.

I believe the developers at Haemimont Games made a great decision in relaunching the original Surviving Mars. Many reviews claim that the game is too similar to the original. However, I think this should be obvious given that it is a “relaunch.” The game isn’t designed as a sequel to the original. Instead, it serves to bring the game more up-to date with modern gaming, running on more advanced engines. It is a relaunching on the game’s life and for that, I think it is doing it’s job well. Plus, with future DLCs, the game will hopefully continue to be worked on and improved. I can see a bright future ahead of Surviving Mars: Relaunched, and a bright future for life on Mars!

Varney Lake is a coming-of-age adventure that is full of mini-games. With a dated aesthetic and slow gameplay, this may not be for everyone. However, fans of Mothman 1966 will enjoy this short endeavour.

Star Trek Prodigy: Supernova is a fun-filled family-friendly title. Furthermore, it has zany characters, interesting backdrops, and an OTT story. However, its repetitive gameplay and simple approach will frustrate veteran gamers.

Minicology is more than just a survival game, it’s an invitation to explore, tinker, and unleash your creativity. With its charming visuals, in-depth crafting mechanics, and emphasis on automation, Minicology offers a unique and rewarding experience for gamers of all stripes. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or simply enjoy a relaxing and visually captivating adventure, Minicology is a must-play title that will keep you hooked for a couple of hours.

Smurfs Kart is a fun and family-focused affair. With colourful graphics and familiar stage design, this will impress every fan of the Smurfs. Moreover, the accessibility options are perfect for younger gamers. Sadly, though, it isn't tough enough for older players and the action becomes repetitive.

Deep Diving Adventures is a wonderfully relaxing and interesting diving simulator. Undertake many quests, upgrade your equipment, and avoid every predator. The inclusion of the DLC adds longevity and makes this great value for money.

1 Last Game’s Reclaim the Sea is still a charming and enjoyable—albeit brief—experience, blending pirates and strategy. There seems to be a promising future for the game and I hope the developers can deliver!

Montezuma's Revenge - The 40th Anniversary Edition is tough, frustrating, and often unfair, but I loved it regardless. I adore the old-school vibe, the interesting stage design, and the unforgiving gameplay.

Desktop Dungeons: Rewind, is an enjoyable game with a lot of puzzle-based gameplay and a variety of different modes. Unfortunately, the game has faults like the cheesy dialogue and the intrusive UI. However, the amazing character designs, amount of content, and great puzzle gameplay far outweigh the bad. Although the game can be frustratingly difficult, the game is still overall an entertaining experience. I recommend giving this game a chance if you are interested in trying out this unique hybrid of rouge-like and puzzle gameplay.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland has a wonderful 90s edge. Furthermore, the action is easy to understand. However, this simplicity will frustrate older gamers. Accordingly, this is a child-friendly title (when played cooperatively) that has a niche appeal.

JustAxe is an exciting 2D platformer with puzzles, interactive environments and unusual setting! Solve riddles, combine your moves, and set out to save your hometown and possibly all of humanity... And don't forget to take your axe with you!

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is a tale of two halves. On the story front, it might be one of the weaker stories for the MMO. Wuk Lamat is an overbearing main character who is illogical at times. None of the other new characters stand out, and fan favorites from previous expansions don’t significantly impact the story. On the other hand, the dungeons and trials are some of the most fun I’ve had in the game. Both new classes are a blast, and the graphics update adds a nice touch to the game. Fans of the story might be disappointed, especially after Endwalker and Shadowbringers. This expansion delivers on all fronts for players looking to grind new content.

The game is also exclusive to PS5 of all things supposedly because it hopes to implement PSVR. Not for the actual game mind you, but just for a first person cutscene at the beginning. I’m not sure of the story behind this exclusivity, but this seems like an odd way to split your fanbase especially when the last game was available on practically everything.

If you grew up chasing high scores, hunting secrets, and replaying the same map to leave no secret behind, Pie in the Sky will feel like coming home, even if the visit is a little shorter than you’d like. The price might seem on the steeper side with regards to the short play time but I would spend my money on it to support the indie developer in hopes for a more refined nostalgic trip in the future.

Despite it not being my cup of tea, Squad 44 looks promising, especially with recent updates and continued support from the developers. If you’re a fan of online multiplayer tactical FPS and WWII history, Squad 44 is worth your time.

Immortal Life shows a lot of promise. It’s varying gameplay mechanics left me clambering for more, and the addictive management systems were very immersing. Though the graphics and narrative pacing are a cause of concern for me, these could be remedied in subsequent updates. If you are a fan of casual games, then this may be something worth picking up. However, I’d strongly recommend you wait until its official release date to get a full understanding of the games potential.

Reverie Knights Tactics is a fun but tough turn-based tactical RPG. You must control a small band of heroes as you fight relentless foes, manage your stats, and plan every move. It is tough and requires a methodical mindset.

God of Rock is an enjoyable rhythm-based combat experience. With vivid graphics and incredible audio, this is a treat for your eyes and ears. Moreover, the challenging gameplay will test your dexterity and concentration. However, a weak player base and a lack of depth hold it back from reaching its full potential.

Saint Kotar is a grim, sinisiter, and dank point-and-click title. With a strange and slow plot, and many twists and turns, it can be tough to swallow. However, with time and patience, you'll enjoy a horror game that is eerie and story-rich.

Demon Skin is a grim and gritty side-scrolling adventure title. With slick combat and tough encounters, this old-school experience has a modern edge. Though it is a bit of a slow burner, I recommend fighting through the pain.

Sophstar is a casual shmup that is addictive and fun. With 6 game modes and 6 difficulty settings, this will keep you busy. What's more, the never-ending bullet hell will test your patience and reactions.

If you’re looking for something more than just a simple, point-grabbing experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But hey, if you’re into ducks, dashes, and collecting points just for the sake of it, then, by all means, have at it.

The Kindeman Remedy is a sinister and chilling management title. Moreover, its grim gameplay and horrific torture scenes will haunt you. However, the repetitive action may put you off. Furthermore, cumbersome navigation controls were frustrating.

Space Adventure Cobra - The Awakening is perfect if you love the anime series. Furthermore, it is quirky, niche, and full of witty one-liners. However, if you do not like the 80s cartoon, the action, story, and blend of retro cutscenes will not resonate.

Lil Gator: In the Dark DLC is a fun addition to a much-loved base game. Moreover, it adds story focus and vertical traversal for a new flavour. This was great, even though it makes it a little challenging for younger players.

If you’re a fan of Factorio and looking for a new challenge that emphasizes factory building and automation in a space setting, Final Factory delivers a solid and enjoyable experience. I would definitely recommend picking the game up as it is still extremely easy to lose yourself for hours upon hours as you make a mess of your space station and start again and learning new things every time.

Taxi Life - Delivery Driver is a nice addition to the base game. However, the simple mechanics and rudimentary gameplay may disappoint. I enjoyed the first instalment, but expected much more from the DLC.

Nine Lives to Defend was a surprisingly fun and addictive experience, I enjoyed it so much that even after I played for a good amount of hours to be able to write a detailed review, I went back to it enjoying it as much as I previously did. The delicate hand-drawn art style, wacky abilities, power- ups and interesting enemies was what made Nine Lives to Defend a fun cozy game, even if it did involve exterminating critters.

Deadlink is a relentless arena-based FPS with rogue-lite elements. You must jump, dive, and shoot your way to victory. However, death is guaranteed, and failure is all but assured. Yet, this matters not as you become stronger, faster, and wiser with each passing playthrough.

Overall, My time spent with Eugène on his journey was one that I found mostly enjoyable, even if I did find myself frustrated with a good portion of the adventure. I would spend countless minutes re-reading dialogue and documents in an attempt to find something that might have been missed and often would end up scratching my head at some of the solutions. While this might not be as strong as something like the Professor Layton series, I definitely would love to see something like this again from this team.

It is simple, light-hearted fun that would be great for those interested in board games and dungeons & dragons. I found myself playing into the evening a few times even though I typically do my gaming research during the day. I enjoy diving into an adventure packed with side quests to tackle. The wacky and wonderful characters I meet along the way stand out, and their stories are consistently well written. If you have family or friends that you think would enjoy this, then I can especially recommend it to you.