Scarlet Hollow is a masterfully written horror visual novel that blends eerie storytelling with deep player choice. With a richly detailed world, compelling characters, and a haunting atmosphere, it offers an immersive supernatural mystery experience. Though still incomplete, its branching narrative and impactful decisions make it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven horror.

Everhood 2 refines its music-based combat and surreal adventure, delivering a rhythm-action RPG packed with creative battles, an expansive soundtrack, and unpredictable storytelling. While it lacks deep character development, its unique gameplay and vibrant presentation make it a standout indie experience.

Shujinkou is a masterfully crafted JRPG that seamlessly blends dungeon crawling, turn-based combat, and an innovative Japanese language learning system. With deep gameplay mechanics, rich world-building, and a clever integration of language education, it’s a unique experience for both RPG lovers and language enthusiasts. Though some mechanics, like ailments and demon negotiation, feel underutilized, the game’s engaging story, stylish UI, and immersive soundtrack make it a must-play.

Never7: The End of Infinity Remastered brings Kotaro Uchikoshi’s early work to a new audience, blending romance, mystery, and mind-bending twists. While it may not be as polished as later Infinity titles, its influence on the visual novel genre is undeniable, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.

Ever17: The Out of Infinity is a legendary visual novel that blends gripping storytelling, intricate character routes, and mind-bending twists. Originally released in 2002, this HD rerelease modernizes the experience while preserving the atmospheric tension that made it a cult classic. With its multi-protagonist perspective, immersive soundtrack, and layered narrative, Ever17 remains a must-play for visual novel fans—even if some script changes and added content may divide purists.

Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered brings back Lara Croft’s later classic adventures with modernized controls and visual enhancements. While The Last Revelation still shines as a franchise high point, Chronicles and Angel of Darkness struggle to justify their place in the collection. Inconsistent lighting, minimal extras, and aging mechanics hold this remaster back from being a must-have, but die-hard fans may still appreciate the preservation effort.

A gripping psychological thriller with a unique narrative structure, Recall: Empty Wishes blends emotional depth with light puzzle-solving. While its storytelling is compelling and its presentation beautifully detailed, occasional plot holes and unclear objectives hold it back from perfection.

Monster Hunter Wilds proves that Capcom still owns the subgenre the series has created, by crafting a game that somehow massively improves on its already-incredible predecessor. It brings the franchise fully into the current generation with an expansive open world, gorgeous environments, and even more satisfying action combat.

You're likely to know whether you will enjoy Piczle Cross: Rune Factory at a glance and it provides the kind of comfortable nonogram puzzling that many gamers have come to enjoy over the years. It's Rune Factory stylings are decent, but don't elevate the game beyond what it is at heart. Which for a puzzle game as engaging as this, isn't exactly a bad thing. Better to not spoil the broth with too many ingredients.

Stories from Sol: The Gun-Dog masterfully blends retro-inspired visuals with modern storytelling, delivering a gripping sci-fi narrative filled with player-driven choices and Lovecraftian tension. With its richly developed protagonist, immersive exploration, and nostalgic ‘90s anime aesthetic, the game evokes the charm of classic PC-Engine adventures while tackling mature themes like PTSD and interplanetary warfare.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a hilariously absurd spin-off that leans into its over-the-top premise with chaotic combat, a vibrant Hawaiian setting, and Majima at his wildest. While it lacks the deep narrative punch of mainline entries, its sheer fun factor and pirate-themed insanity make it a must-play for fans of the series.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is a gripping supernatural mystery that blends high school occult investigations with immersive storytelling. While its linear gameplay and repetitive mechanics hold it back slightly, its haunting atmosphere, well-developed characters, and compelling cases make it hard to put down for fans of detective and horror narratives.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is an ambitious sequel that builds on its predecessor with deeper worldbuilding, refined combat mechanics, and engaging character dynamics. However, inconsistent writing, a rushed third act, and underwhelming new features prevent it from reaching its full potential. While longtime fans will appreciate the expanded lore and combat improvements, the uneven storytelling may leave some players frustrated.

of the Devil Episode 1 is a compelling and gripping first chapter that you should not miss if you are a fan of mystery thrillers. It has a sense of style that is excellently cinematic, and it's narrative has characters that are morally complex, even at this early juncture. If Nth Circle keep this up in following chapters, then of the Devil is going to be one of the finest games in the entire genre.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O brings the classic 2006 fighting game into the modern era with stunning 4K graphics, 60 FPS performance, and rollback netcode for seamless online multiplayer. This definitive PC version introduces gameplay balancing adjustments, new moves, and a celebration of the series' legacy with the 30th Anniversary Edition upgrade. While it lacks new single-player content, R.E.V.O delivers the most technically proficient and visually impressive iteration of Virtua Fighter 5 yet, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers to the franchise.

While Waiting sports lovely graphics and amazing attention to detail, finding the fun and charm in every day situations. It is a unique concept and tells a touching story, but struggles to make some of its mechanics work with each other.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is an Unreal Engine 5 revival of Ninja Gaiden 2 Sigma that arrives unexpectedly yet brings back the series’ legendary fast-paced action. While some missing features from the original Ninja Gaiden 2 and random performance stumbles keep it from being the perfect return, its wildly satisfying combat and varied arsenal make it a worthwhile visit for fans craving that classic Ninja Gaiden rush.

Hello Kitty Island Adventure brings Sanrio charm to life with a relaxing blend of friendship-building, exploration, and decorating. The game offers delightful interactions with beloved characters, a beautifully designed island, and engaging side activities. However, mobile-style wait timers slow progress, and occasional glitches pop up. Still, for fans of cozy, slice-of-life adventures, this is a delightful getaway worth visiting.

Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos attempts to deliver a Katamari-like gameplay experience with a comedic premise, starring fan-favorite Uzume Tennouboshi. However, the game falls flat with its rushed narrative, shallow mechanics, and lack of meaningful content, making it feel more like a cash grab than a worthy entry in the Neptunia series.

Genso Manège is a captivating otome visual novel that blends romance, magic, and emotional depth in a dreamlike France. With stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and charming characters, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and a delightful entry point for newcomers.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero offers a refreshing take on the SRPG genre with its unique gridless combat and deep customization. While the slow pacing and complex systems may deter newcomers, fans of tactical games will revel in its rewarding gameplay and intricate strategies.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on PC elevates the already stellar experience with exceptional optimization, quality-of-life improvements, and expanded gameplay customization. Its immersive exploration, engaging combat, and stunning visuals make it a must-play for fans of JRPGs, whether newcomers or returning players.

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist builds upon its predecessor with a stronger narrative focus, improved exploration, and satisfying combat mechanics. While it reuses some familiar ideas, the game’s seamless movement, customizable playstyles, and stunning presentation make it a standout metroidvania for both newcomers and veterans.

Blade Chimera is a compact and ambitious 2D action game from Team Ladybug, blending a story-heavy sci-fi narrative with inventive gameplay mechanics. While the game shines with its satisfying exploration and strong protagonist, its overpowered mechanics and underdeveloped supporting cast prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Tales of Graces f Remastered delivers an exemplary action RPG experience, blending heartfelt storytelling, a masterfully crafted combat system, and deep customization mechanics. With its timeless characters, meaningful progression, and modernized quality-of-life updates, this is a must-play for fans of the Tales of series and JRPG enthusiasts alike.

Threefold Recital masterfully combines a rich eastern-inspired aesthetic with innovative gameplay and heartfelt storytelling. While minor localization issues and gameplay limitations detract slightly, the compelling tale of three beastlings navigating a magical yet futuristic world makes this indie adventure a memorable journey.

Touhou Spell Carnival combines grid-based RPG mechanics with the intense bullet hell action of the Touhou Project series, delivering a visually stunning and challenging experience. While its steep learning curve and chaotic battles may test players' patience, those who master its mechanics will find a deeply rewarding journey filled with strategic depth, engaging characters, and mesmerizing visuals.

Dynasty Warriors Origins breathes new life into the Musou franchise, blending a gripping narrative with refined combat mechanics and expansive exploration. While the game offers engaging storytelling and strategic depth, occasional pacing issues and repetitive side quests may deter newcomers.

S4U: Citypunk 2011 and Love Punch is an inventive narrative adventure that immerses players in the chaotic world of early 2010s chat software. Through Miki’s journey of self-discovery, the game explores themes of identity, relationships, and the balance between personal and professional lives. With its nostalgic visuals, engaging storylines, and player-driven choices, S4U is a standout indie gem that rewards thoughtful exploration despite a few pacing and complexity challenges.

Freedom Wars Remastered revitalizes the 2014 PS Vita cult classic, delivering an exciting blend of narrative depth, intense combat, and community-driven gameplay. While the menus and crafting system remain a challenge, the game's unique setting and gripping gameplay loop make it a rewarding experience for fans of the hunting genre.

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a meticulously crafted action RPG that showcases Falcom’s hallmark boss design, timeless soundtrack, and streamlined gameplay. With new artwork, a voiced Adol, and Turbo Mode for convenience, this definitive release highlights what makes Ys so enduringly captivating—despite minimal character development.

On Your Tail is a heartfelt mystery adventure that combines charming slice-of-life activities with engaging detective gameplay. Set in the picturesque town of Borgo Marina, players take on the role of Diana, an anthropomorphic ram navigating personal growth while solving a string of thefts. With a vibrant cast of characters and a variety of cozy side activities, the game delivers an endearing, fun-filled experience despite minor pacing and navigation issues.

The Riki 8Bit Game Collection brings two charming retro-style games, Kira Kira Star Night and Astro Ninja Man DX, to the Nintendo Switch. With vibrant 8-bit visuals, addictive arcade gameplay, and an outstanding chiptune soundtrack, this collection offers a nostalgic experience for fans of classic gaming. The included music players, complete with interactive animations, elevate the package into a celebration of retro gaming culture.

Fairy Tail 2 may be a flawed experience in that its storytelling is marred by horrid pacing and missed opportunities. Still, the character events and gameplay are worthwhile and addictive for longtime fans; it’s a decently evolved sequel that made me more invested in this familiar cast than before, making me hope for a 100-Years Quest follow-up where more care is put into the narrative.

The Spirit of the Samurai is a game bursting with creativity and ambition, but its execution often stumbles under the weight of its unique design choices. The stop-motion animation, while impressive, seems to have come at the cost of polished systems and streamlined gameplay. Despite its flaws, the game delivers an engaging and visually distinct experience that’s worth exploring for fans of experimental action titles. If you can overlook its rough edges and embrace its inventive spirit, you’ll find a memorable, if imperfect, adventure.

Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1 - 2 Remastered brings together two classic action-adventure games, allowing modern gamers to experience Raziel's quest for revenge with updated visuals and refined systems. The remaster preserves the rich narrative, cinematic storytelling, and intricate lore that made the originals unforgettable, while adding accessibility features like highlighted interactable items and a map. While some cryptic gameplay elements and unchanged textures may challenge newcomers, this collection is a must-play for fans of narrative-driven adventures and a brilliant way to revisit Nosgoth.

Tri Breaker: A Sacred Symbols Odyssey redefines the brick-breaking genre with its innovative mechanics and surprisingly engaging narrative. Combining challenging gameplay with clever storytelling, Lillymo Games delivers a unique sequel that rewards persistence and skill mastery. While the difficulty spikes and inconsistent mechanics may deter some players, the game's memorable soundtrack and imaginative design ensure a rewarding experience for those willing to embrace its quirks.

Antonblast is a chaotic and challenging 2D platformer that combines tight controls, masterful level design, and a unique sense of humor. With its relentless pacing, creative mechanics like the Happy Hour feature, and vibrant audiovisual presentation, it delivers an exhilarating experience for platforming veterans. While some unlockables and gimmicks fall short, the game's charm and intensity make it a standout indie gem and one of the year's best platformers.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle captures the spirit of adventure with nostalgic puzzles, richly detailed environments, and thrilling set pieces. While it stumbles with lackluster AI and clunky item management, its charm and sense of discovery make it a rewarding journey for fans of the iconic archaeologist.

Mythwrecked presents an original take on the Greek pantheon that turns them into likeable, relatable people with grounded issues, and a very solid gameplay loop that makes the entire thing go down smoothly. Unfortunately, it's hampered by a lack of narrative emphasis and a main character that doesn't get much of her own development.

Fantasian Neo Dimension breathes new life into the original Apple Arcade release with an engrossing narrative, intuitive turn-based combat, and a stellar English dub. While its innovative Dimengion mechanic and character-driven storytelling shine, minor performance hiccups on the Switch and lackluster sidequests hold it back. This is a must-play for RPG fans seeking a modern classic.

Symphonia is a visually stunning 2D platformer where music and gameplay intertwine in a harmonious adventure. With its unique momentum-based mechanics, orchestral soundtrack, and challenging optional areas, the game delivers a short yet satisfying experience for fans of the genre. However, minor bugs, an underdeveloped story, and some confusing mechanics hold it back from reaching its full potential. A must-play for platforming enthusiasts seeking something fresh.

Maid Cafe on Electric Street is a charming slice-of-life cafe management sim that combines nostalgic pixel-art visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and otaku culture references into a relaxing experience. Players manage the Fuwa Fuwa Cafe, build relationships with quirky maids, and explore the vibrant town of Nipponbashi. While the management gameplay and quality-of-life features could use more depth, the engaging voice acting, rich world-building, and low-stakes atmosphere make it a delightful choice for fans of visual novels and cozy games.

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl recaptures the franchise's signature blend of emergent gameplay, atmospheric design, and hardcore survival mechanics in a stunningly realized Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. While the game is packed with content and breathtaking visuals, its glaring technical issues and unpolished systems hold it back, making it a game worth revisiting after future patches.

Prison Princess: Trapped Allure blends lighthearted escape room puzzles with charming anime visuals and fan service. While its casual gameplay and fast travel system make it approachable, shallow character development, repetitive dialogue, and overly simple, sometimes ambiguous puzzles hold it back from being truly engaging. Perfect for anime fans seeking a low-pressure adventure but may disappoint those looking for depth or challenge.

River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next combines the comedic charm of River City with the epic setting of China's Three Kingdoms era. While grind-heavy for solo players, its expanded skill tree, chaotic co-op gameplay, and humorous storytelling make it an enjoyable niche brawler for dedicated fans.

Threshold delivers a tense and immersive experience with resource management, branching endings, and PS1-inspired graphics. Though some elements can feel overly ambiguous, the game’s smart design and dark atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of psychological mysteries and unique storytelling.

NBB.EXE is a fast-paced puzzle platformer that blends challenging platforming with a complex narrative and Metroidvania-style hub worlds. While the creative level design and evolving mechanics shine, a lack of guidance, visual clutter, and unnecessary genre mixing hold the game back. Fans of demanding platformers will appreciate its addictive trial-and-error gameplay, but its layered systems may frustrate casual players. With tighter focus, this game could lay the groundwork for an exceptional follow-up.

SINce Memories: Off The Starry Sky is a heartfelt visual novel blending emotional character dynamics with an intriguing mystery. While its standalone accessibility and nostalgic presentation shine, inconsistent heroine routes, localization errors, and awkward voice acting hold it back from true greatness. A solid entry point for newcomers to the Memories Off series.

Mario & Luigi: Brothership brings a nostalgic return to the beloved RPG series with engaging combat, charming presentation, and heartfelt sibling dynamics. However, its lackluster story, forgettable characters, and technical hiccups hold it back from being a true masterpiece. While it has moments of fun and familiarity, it struggles to stand out in a year brimming with excellent Mario RPG releases.

Mindcop is a detective adventure game that combines film noir storytelling with time-sensitive investigation and unique mind-diving mechanics. As a "mindcop," players dive into suspects' subconscious to uncover hidden truths, but every action costs time. With strategic match-3 puzzles and tough decision-making, Mindcop challenges players to solve a mystery with limited resources, creating a tense, immersive experience.

Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake gives this classic a fresh coat of paint with a gorgeous HD-2D look and smart gameplay tweaks that make revisiting it feel worthwhile. With quality-of-life improvements and a flexible job system, it sticks close to its roots but doesn’t shy away from modern touches. While the high encounter rate and straightforward story might feel like holdovers from the past, it’s a satisfying trip back to a genre staple for those who don’t mind a little grind along the way.

Rogue Flight is a standout space shooter that brings intensity and immersion to every mission, backed by a grounded narrative that raises the stakes. While its customization and strategic elements add depth, some aspects, like the overly challenging boss positioning and the lack of clear weapon stats, can interrupt the flow, occasionally feeling more frustrating than rewarding. Despite these points, the variety and visual style, along with a wealth of replayable modes, make Rogue Flight a must for shmup fans who want a memorable, challenging experience.

Death Note: Killer Within attempts to bring the tension and drama of the iconic anime into a social deduction game format. While it offers solid fan service with familiar characters like Light, L, and Ryuk, the gameplay feels overly familiar and limited, failing to innovate within its genre. Frequent technical issues, limited task variety, and an underwhelming use of the Death Note itself make it difficult to recommend, even to die-hard fans. There are moments of charm and humor, but overall, Killer Within struggles to live up to its potential.

Earth Defense Force: World Brothers 2 is more of the same from the previous entry and, honestly, it never needed to be more than that. It's the sort of chaotic, messy fun that lets players just forget about everything and chant "EDF! EDF!" on their brain. Sometimes silly is good.

Metal Slug Tactics doesn't quite reinvent the strategy genre, but it does offer up a lot of addictive, explosive and satisfying action. The core of the Metal Slug series lies comfortably within this new genre along with plenty of familiar sights, sounds and characters that will please fans. A great take on turn based strategy and one that feels distinctly true to its roots.

Slitterhead exemplifies what an indie developer with ambitious ideas can achieve within limited means. Where one system falters, another aspect of the game steps up, maintaining a balance between innovation and feasibility. While more resources could have enhanced the combat and voice acting, Slitterhead ultimately succeeds as a character-driven horror game with a focus on storytelling and atmosphere. For fans of narrative-driven horror, Slitterhead is a captivating experience that breaks the mold.

Farmagia is a narrative-driven action-strategy game that blends farming, monster-raising, and real-time combat in the fantasy realm of Felicidad. Players join protagonist Ten and his allies in resisting a tyrannical regime, forging bonds with Elementals, and navigating satisfying combat mechanics centered on timing and parrying. Despite some underdeveloped world-building and maze repetition, Farmagia offers rewarding gameplay loops, memorable character interactions, and a surprisingly immersive English dub, making it a standout gem in 2024's lineup.

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered brings Suda51’s cult classic to new life with enhanced visuals, a darkly humorous narrative, and intense demon-slaying action. The remaster preserves the original’s unique style while adding some welcome refinements. Although the combat can be repetitive, the game’s atmospheric puzzles, challenging boss encounters, and compelling underworld setting make for an unforgettable journey through hell. Garcia Hotspur’s quest to rescue his girlfriend, Paula, pushes both him and players to their limits, and the result is a devilishly entertaining experience that fans of the genre will appreciate.

The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom offers a charming love story with beautiful illustrations, but it’s held back by poor translation quality, a lackluster interface, and limited narrative depth. While fans of isekai romance may enjoy Tiararose’s journey, the title falls short of genre standards in both writing and presentation.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure revives Max Caulfield’s story, but the introduction of a convoluted dual-timeline mechanic and an uninspiring cast make it a less memorable entry in the series. While Max’s iconic wit shines through environmental interactions, technical bugs and disjointed pacing detract from the experience. Despite some nostalgic moments, this return to Life is Strange’s world struggles to capture the charm that made the original special.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard may have hit a few big stumbles along its path to release, but ultimately manages to deliver an innovative and fully-realized take on the series' world, exploration, and combat. The role-playing aspect has taken a minor hit in the process, but the game still boasts one of the best casts its studio has ever created, an engaging plot, and answers to many long-held questions, in addition to the best battle system in BioWare history.

Super Mario Party Jamboree revives the series' magic with a robust roster, nostalgic boards, and inventive new modes. While minor issues with online play persist, the game’s exciting gameplay and variety make it a must-play for Mario Party enthusiasts. Whether exploring diverse boards or unlocking unique characters, Jamboree offers hours of classic party fun, packed with the right mix of chaos and charm.

Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town brings the mischievous charm of the beloved 5-year-old protagonist to life in a cozy adventure. Faithfully capturing Shin chan's witty personality, the game invites both fans and newcomers to explore a beautifully presented world filled with vibrant cel-shaded graphics and immersive voice acting. While the intriguing storyline and stellar presentation make it feel like stepping into an animated series, the repetitive fetch quests and limited gameplay variety may leave some players wanting more. It's a delightful journey for younger gamers but falls a bit short in delivering the depth expected from the cozy genre.

Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 Remake revitalizes Koei Tecmo's grand strategy classic with its first-ever simultaneous English and Japanese release. Immerse yourself in the intricate world of the Han Dynasty, where you can assume the role of any character—or even create your own—in a quest to unify China or simply survive the tumultuous era. With deep management systems, stat-based debates and duels, and grid-based combat, this remake masterfully blends historical authenticity with rich role-playing elements.

Yakuza Kiwami makes its unexpected arrival on the Nintendo Switch, bringing the series' compelling origin story to a new audience. This remake offers a fast-paced, thrilling narrative centered around protagonist Kiryu Kazuma, set in the intimate and vibrant city of Kamurocho. With a rich array of side activities and a deep combat system, the game promises an engaging experience. However, performance issues in docked mode and the availability of better versions on other platforms make this port a less than ideal way to experience this classic.

Voidwrought is a dark, atmospheric metroidvania that excels in audio design and exploration. While its gameplay doesn’t break new ground, it offers an accessible experience for newcomers, blending fast-paced combat with intriguing lore and light base-building mechanics.

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a masterful remaster that stays true to its roots while offering modern enhancements for a new generation of players. The depth of its strategic combat, generational storytelling, and open-ended exploration make it a standout entry in the JRPG genre. While it has some performance issues, they don’t detract from the overall experience.

Awaken - Astral Blade delivers flashes of promise with its boss battles and combat mechanics but ultimately suffers from repetitive enemies, lackluster exploration, and a weak narrative. While the game has its moments, it fails to reach the heights of other China Hero Project titles.

Fear The Spotlight is a brief, nostalgic love letter to 90s horror games, blending simple stealth and puzzle mechanics. While it doesn't break new ground in the genre, its atmospheric visuals and sound design provide a few hours of engaging fun for fans of retro horror, though it may not offer enough depth to warrant a second playthrough.

Card-en-Ciel is a highly addictive deck-building roguelite from Inti Creates, blending grid-based combat inspired by Mega Man Battle Network with fast-paced dungeon-crawling action. While the story may take a backseat, the dynamic gameplay and rewarding progression systems shine through. With excellent English voice acting and a perfect fit for portable play on the Switch, this underappreciated gem is one of the best gameplay-focused titles of 2024.

Unknown 9: Awakening is the best PS3-era adventure game released in 2024. It has everything I remember from the genre during that time, and it managed to hold my interest until the conclusion. While the story eventually comes together, the pacing getting there is plagued with flimsy character growth and world-building. The character dynamics and relationships are also lacking due to the genuinely emotionless design of this cast, which also affects the pacing. You eventually play for the combat alone, but even that becomes a repetitive mess. I hope to see more from this team because we don’t get enough of these classic adventure games.

Despite its quirky premise, Kamikaze Lassplanes offers a captivating mix of ecchi visual novel storytelling and shmup gameplay. With a solid narrative focus, emotional depth, and replay value through multiple endings, the game is sure to appeal to fans of both genres. The shmup sections are fun and strategic, though not without minor flaws, while the VN aspects surprise with compelling character development. If you're seeking a unique blend of action and story-driven gameplay, this hybrid delivers a satisfying experience.

Despite my moderate level of enjoyment, I’d still hesitate to recommend Darksiders II Deathinitive Edition unless you have a notable affinity with action games from the early to mid-2010s. Its drab and monotonous open world doesn’t do its bland exposition any favors. Nevertheless, the combat, customization, and puzzle design may win over the more patient types. Regarding this boosted port, it doesn’t warrant a replay for the average player by any means, but if you’re a veteran or new fan, there’s enough justification for giving this release a whirl.

The Fox’s Way Home is a decent dance experience. The low-stakes narrative and gameloop remove any tension or frustration you may have with a spot-the-difference game, and the cute fox girl makes it more worthwhile. You’ll know if this is a game for you after a glance, but whether you’re willing to pay full price now or wait for a sale is up to you. There are a few options and modes that I feel were left out that would make the post-game replayability easier to recommend, but as it stands, this game begins and ends too quickly

Disney Pixel RPG offers a unique blend of nostalgic art and Disney charm, drawing inspiration from titles like Kingdom Hearts and Wreck-It Ralph. While its writing and character interactions shine, the game’s biggest drawback is its lack of content at launch, with only three chapters available in story mode. Gacha mechanics and quality-of-life features work well, but the limited scope may leave players wondering what’s next.

It remains to be seen how post-launch updates and community engagement will shape Blazing Strike’s future. The game could evolve into a hidden gem with time and improvement, especially if it manages to build a dedicated player base. For now, unless you’re eager to support an indie developer or are curious about its unique mechanics, there’s little reason to rush into this title. Patience may prove rewarding if the game receives the polish it needs, but at present, it struggles to justify its place among the fighting game ranks.

Neva is a truly breathtakingly beautiful experience, abundant with gorgeous, artistic and symbolic landscapes. It tells a touching, emotional story about parenthood, struggle and fighting for a decaying world. It brought me to tears and is a deeply memorable experience. However, I found myself rubbing up against some issues with hitboxes and readability of the environment, which led to unintentional frustration.

Ys X: Nordics brings Adol Christin's youthful spirit to the forefront, offering a refreshing mix of action-packed combat, deep customization through the Release Line, and expansive exploration. With a gripping narrative and dynamic character relationships, this entry stands as one of the best in the series. While the sea navigation takes time to open up, the ship battles and adventuring more than make up for it. Ys X: Nordics will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Kind Words 2 by Popcannibal expands upon the original game's concept of spreading kindness through writing. With a new city to explore, players can connect with others in various ways, from sending letters and paper airplanes to engaging in poetry slams and word chains. The game fosters a generous community atmosphere, encouraging players to uplift one another through simple yet impactful interactions.

Europa offers a heartfelt adventure set on a forgotten utopia, where players control Zee, an android seeking answers on Jupiter’s terraformed moon. With intuitive jetpack-fueled platforming and an atmospheric narrative conveyed through diary entries, Europa excels in tone and immersion. While some may find its short three-hour playtime a drawback, the beautifully designed environments and engaging mechanics make it a memorable journey. For those looking for a brief but impactful gaming experience, Europa is worth exploring.

Last Time I Saw You is a standout narrative adventure that doesn’t force you to relate to the main protagonist, but instead weaves in the stories and struggles of a young group of friends and how they plan to tackle life. Following Ayumi’s lead down a quest for love is an experience I won’t forget anytime soon, but the path forward does require some personal pacing to avoid backtracking exhaustion. If you need a nice dose of nostalgia, you’ve found your game.

I CHU: Chibi Edition on Nintendo Switch offers rhythm game enthusiasts a gacha-free experience, preserving the gameplay of the original idol gacha game but removing in-game purchases and stamina mechanics. While the songs are fun and the game is packed with characters, the translation and visual presentation suffer from stilted dialogue and awkward transitions. If you’re a fan of the original Japanese version or idol rhythm games in general, I CHU might still be worth a look, but beware of some lingering issues from its gacha roots.

Silent Hill 2 Remake by Bloober Team is a modern masterpiece in survival horror. The remake revisits James Sunderland's journey through a nightmarish Silent Hill, with stunning visuals, enhanced combat, and immersive environmental design. The story explores deep psychological themes while maintaining the fear-inducing gameplay that fans of the series remember.

Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream is an SAO fan’s dream and an action RPG fan’s nightmare. While the rewards provide a nice dose of dopamine across each match, there’s not enough content here to justify fans of online action games to invest themselves in. The story might hold you for around 10 hours, but after that, you’re looking at hours and hours of grinding across the same handful of maps and missions, completing uncreative daily quests and begging for something new. Still, the action gameplay is incredibly addictive, but the support needs to show up as fans did on day one to witness the cringy emotional drama of SAO, one more time.

In just about every way, Metaphor: ReFantazio checks all the boxes for a masterful fantasy epic. Between the addictive gameplay design, endlessly strategic combat, and gripping narrative propelled by a compelling cast, this is an undeniable must-play that's guaranteed to be Atlus's next big hit.

Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero is an absolutely addictive delight, firing on all cylinders, and is the dream Dragon Ball game for fans worldwide. While the story mode contains poorly implemented retreading, the high number of what-if scenarios more than makes up for this shortcoming.

Echoes of Wisdom is yet another stunning entry in the Zelda franchise and those looking for a new Zelda experience but also clamour for something different should give this title a definite try.

9 R.I.P. is a unique otome game that explores horror elements to create compelling backstories and circumstances for our protagonist to face. With the usual quality we’ve come to expect from Otomate, this is a great experience throughout.

Mouthwashing delivers an unsettling, cinematic spacewreck horror experience with a unique narrative exploring leadership and mental exhaustion. While the puzzles offer little challenge, the gripping storyline and atmospheric PS1-inspired visuals create an unforgettable psychological horror. Ideal for fans of walking simulators with a twist, this game explores disturbing themes that you won't easily forget.

Elsie offers a fresh take on the roguelike bullet hell genre, packed with challenging mechanics, boss fights, and unique customization options. While some systems feel underutilized, its intense combat and Mega Man X-inspired platforming shine, making it a must-play for genre fans.

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed brings back the iconic 2010 Wii platformer with a fresh coat of paint. Though the nostalgia is undeniable, the gameplay mechanics and morality system feel outdated, leaving much to be desired. Its charming premise and art style may appeal to diehard fans, but performance issues on PC further dampen the experience.

Reynatis, the latest action RPG from FuRyu, combines intriguing world-building and fluid combat but falters in storytelling and gameplay depth. Despite contributions from Yoko Shimomura and Kazushige Nojima, the rushed narrative leaves the experience feeling incomplete. The combat mechanics are engaging but lack challenge, while repetitive dungeons and lackluster side quests drag down the pacing. With some polish and deeper storytelling, Reynatis could have been something special, but as it stands, it’s a fun yet flawed journey.

The Plucky Squire was truly a delightful and charming adventure, filled to the brim with clever jokes, beautiful graphics and a range of fun gameplay mechanics. It does not overstay its welcome, and instead offers a polished experience from start to finish. Even though it sometimes holds the players hands a bit too much for my taste, I had a fantastic time and wish I could play it for the first time again.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster allowed me to re-write the past where I once passed on the franchise. Surprisingly, even in 2024, this insane combination of genres holds up. Discovering the various ways of using items and navigating this mall over multiple runs was consistently fun, capped off by some of the most insane psychopath bosses I've ever fought against. Dead Rising was released almost 20 years ago, making it a product of its time, but I feel the changes to the script were unnecessary and hurt the uncomfortable impact these characters were meant to deliver. The updated visuals and controls may entice modern players to this release, but the core systems that make Dead Rising a must-play have been here since the beginning, and I'm glad to be able to join in the hype surrounding this series.

Cricket: Jae's Really Peculiar Game is a very personal story that touches on modern and nuanced social issues under the umbrella of loss, which we all struggle with. A deep sense of nostalgia fuels the experience through the colorful turn-based battles and imaginative boss encounters, providing older gamers with a familiar stage and giving newcomers a chance to enjoy an RPG from beginning to end, regardless of their skill level. While the overall experience could have been more focused, with less time spent on half-baked systems, it's an enjoyable and charming adventure that will easily find its audience.

Hollowbody is a love letter to the survival horror genre of the early 2000s. It’s not without its flaws, particularly in combat variety and puzzle depth, but its strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. For fans of classic survival horror, it offers a beautifully atmospheric, tension-filled experience that feels both nostalgic and new. It becomes a game that you want to see through, if only to witness how far this rabbit hole goes. I’m looking forward to seeing more from this developer in the future.

Ultimately, Fairy Tail: Beach Volleyball Havoc has an interesting premise, but it struggles to deliver a polished and enjoyable experience. The chaotic, magic-infused volleyball matches have the potential to be fun, but the lack of control and balance holds it back. Fans of Fairy Tail might appreciate the effort to bring something new to the franchise, but as it stands, the game feels more like a missed opportunity than a solid addition to the series.