Another Crab's Treasure introduction to the soulslike subgenre and offers enough customization and interesting mechanics to keep it interesting for veteran players. Each fight feels rewarding and meaningful, while the lovingly crafted environments make exploration a treat for the eye. Some camera issues muddy the waters somewhat, but not enough to make this an excellent title from Aggro Crab.

The Foundation will keep you busy for a few hours, but in the end, the side-quests are the best part about it, which is sad. I didn’t care for the new powers as they just made the glaring copy and paste environments more apparent. However, if you enjoyed the gameplay and battles from the base game, you’ll get that here, with even less direction.

ALTDEUS: Beyond Chronos presents some exciting advancements in the VR visual novel space. It excels in creating a world with characters you care about across some emotional and action field story beats. I think a lot of feedback was brought into this project from the developer’s previous games, which have made it a stand-out adventure title and a must-play for VR owners.

People of Note is a vibrant turn-based RPG that blends classic JRPG structure with inventive rhythm-based combat and a standout musical identity, delivering a heartfelt story about ambition and friendship in a richly stylized world. Its Songstone customization system and flexible difficulty options modernize familiar mechanics, while its soundtrack and vocal performances elevate nearly every moment. Although its late-game pacing and limited animated storytelling hold it back from perfection, the experience remains consistently engaging, creative, and full of personality.

El Paso, Elsewhere is, simply put, an incredible game. Every aspect is meticulously crafted and works in perfect harmony with the rest. It nails practically everything it tries to do. I expected it to be a lot of fun to play, but I did not expect it to be anywhere near as compelling. I wonder how long I’ll be rotating James in my head like I’ve put him in a microwave.

It’s clear Shinsekai was ported from mobile as many textures just don’t look right on the big screen, but aside from this and the few glitches involving NPC movement, it blew me away. Those looking for an addicting, charming, and, at times, unsettling adventure on the ocean floor will find precisely what they’re looking for with this game.

Kunai is a thoroughly fantastic game, taking some of the best elements of the genre and putting them into one parkouring package. It’s apparent that a lot of care went into fine-tuning weapons and Kunai to make your actions feel as instinctual as they are fun. Kunai is one of the most unexpected and delightful gaming experiences I’ve had in a long time.

Dying Light has found a new home and is worth returning to for both veteran fans and those touching down on Harran for the first time. Playing again made me excited for the sequel’s release and made me appreciate this title even more. This and more is what a port should do, so good luck and good night.

Jupiter Hell doesn’t need the word Doom in the title to make an impact, but it’s commendable how well it presents DRL through modern design. At its heart, it’s a turn-based dungeon-crawler RPG, but that doesn’t calm my nerves when I’m blasting through a hallway of enemies from around the corner with more approaching from behind. This game’s launch version is serviceable, but the lack of enemy variety will leave your first hours of gameplay feeling repetitive in some areas. Still, it’s clear that there’s more on the way for this standout roguelike experience, and I’m all here for it.

Yunyun Syndrome!? Rhythm Psychosis is a deeply unconventional rhythm game that fuses denpa-inspired psychological storytelling with a meme-heavy, chaotic soundtrack and a deceptively simple gameplay loop. While its four-lane mechanics are accessible, the real draw lies in its unsettling tonal shifts, meta-narrative elements, and the disturbing yet compelling relationship between Qtie and her imagined savior Yunyun. It is not a pure rhythm experience nor a fully story-driven game, but rather an experimental hybrid that rewards players who embrace its strangeness and emotional dissonance.

Gunbrella delivers on tight and responsive bouts of action. Although it’s a challenging platformer, you can enjoy it from beginning to end across an evening as you hone your Gunbrella skills and get your revenge. What’s more enticing is the story and characters who bring up interesting topics that make you question certain aspects of your adventure. The price is definitely right for this game, and I’ll gladly jump back in because it is so damn fun.

Solar Ash is a delightful experience boasting a continually engaging gameplay loop coupled with enticing sound design and narrative beats. Even with its oddly paced story, problematic camera, and occasionally dull boss battle implementation, it’s a joyous, memorable game that any intrigued party should dive into. Moreover, its digestible gameplay length and ambitious voice quality go a long way into making this a standout title of the year.

Tormented Souls 2 delivers a confidently crafted survival horror experience that leans into its classic inspirations while pushing the genre in creative directions. With stronger world design, improved pacing, and some of the most atmospheric puzzle sections in recent indie horror, it’s a must-play for fans of old-school tension and challenge. While the game occasionally frustrates with trial-and-error mechanics and limited interactivity, it still stands out as a passionate and memorable sequel.

Void Bastards is a fantastic roguelike with a stellar atmosphere and art style. Where it lacks in FPS mechanics, it makes up for with its addictive gameplay loop. The Switch port might not be the prettiest version available, but the short levels make it perfect for quick sessions. Those looking for a darkly funny roguelike will find almost everything they want in Void Bastards.

Remnant: From the Ashes – Subject 2923 marks the perfect ending for this title. There’s still a ton of gameplay here for those who want to continue their experience long after the story ends, but from a narrative standpoint, I’m satisfied with the conclusion. The natural flow of unlocking new items can feel slow sometimes, and the creative choices in regards to the new areas are a little bland, so your mileage may vary depending on personal preference. Still, the sheer amount of content offered in Subject 2923 makes it a must-buy for anyone currently playing or those looking for a reason to return to this nightmarish world.

Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion is a brilliant example of what a Remaster should be. It's the same game I remember, but the updated graphics, controls, and combat make it so much more. You might feel fatigued with the respective mission structure, but there's so much for new and old fans to enjoy in this release, and I'm happy that it received the level of attention it deserves. This is a must-play game for any who truly wishes to understand the incredible narrative of Final Fantasy VII and what makes it so great.

John Wick Hex is a unique experience that marks a return for movie licensed games. It does just enough to stand out and provide an enjoyable adventure for fans of the series through some solid strategical action sequences. It’s not going to leave your heart racing as the films did, but it will provide you with a few hours of entertainment across its various levels.

Pascal’s Wager brings a little bit of everything to the table. You’ll be faced with challenge after challenge, but overcoming those challenges never ceases to be satisfying. The game emphasizes tight combat and quick responses from the player to survive and it works well on a mobile device. Still, the best experience requires the use of a controller, but it’s tough to look past all the great elements of gameplay that this title presents. Those wanting to jump in without the confines of the mobile device can look forward to the PC and console release in the future.

Its predecessor may have been an unremarkable release 30 years ago, but Andro Dunos II manages to execute decent gameplay variety in a well-designed shmup adventure. It allows players to choose how they want to play, and with easy upgrades and clean level design, this is a nice alternative to all the bullet hell craziness out there.

Sympathy Kiss is a great otome game with its blend of romance and relatable experiences, with its office setting appealing especially to a more mature audience. While the faceless protagonist and rather compromised approach at some of the narrative beats are definitely its biggest gripes, it still manages to be a short and sweet story that both fans and newcomers to the genre can appreciate.

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.

Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden intertwines fantasy and romance in a narrative-driven adventure set in 1695. As Banishers Red and Antea, players tackle spirits in New Eden, facing moral choices between duty and love, especially when Antea becomes a ghost. Despite a combat system needing refinement and initial weak portrayal of the protagonists' relationship, the game shines in storytelling, offering a deep cinematic experience influenced by player decisions. Exploration and investigation add gameplay variety, though combat and navigation aspects could be smoother. This title reflects Dontnod's successful venture into combining engaging narratives with action and investigative elements.

Call of the Sea is a puzzle adventure that should be played by all fans of the genre. Its writing and environments are strikingly immersive as the player and Norah find themselves traveling deeper down this rabbit hole of mystery. There are moments of confusion in its design, but all the tools are present to explore this beautifully charming adventure; my only wish is that it was longer.

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.

When taking a glimpse at the gameplay of Pepper Grinder, the brain’s neurons start rapidly firing as it looks so satisfying. And I’m elated to say that the experience delivers on it being an absolutely fun ride of an arcade platformer. There’s no doubt that developer Ahr Ech put a ton of work into making sure all the elements aligned for a gratifying experience.

Per Aspera offers a surprisingly emotional narrative that explores the thought process of an evolving AI programmed to assist humans in colonizing Mars. The symbiotic gameloop of creating structures and growing your presence on the surface while hitting key milestones is cathartic. I was easily immersed in this experience, but only after some trial and error trying to understand how it all worked due to a limited tutorial.

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.

Pokémon Legends Z-A is a bold and imaginative evolution of the franchise, transforming Lumiose City into a richly detailed world full of personality, dynamic real-time battles, and emotional storytelling. Game Freak builds on the success of Legends: Arceus with a tighter scope and a more experimental structure that pays off in surprising ways. The game shines through its vibrant cast, fresh mechanics, and urban exploration, although it’s not without a few missed opportunities.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.: World Stage is the most complete and accessible version of SEGA's classic 3D fighter, bringing long-requested single-player content, improved visuals, and robust online features to modern platforms. While some decisions around monetization and platform exclusivity may frustrate longtime fans, the core gameplay remains as sharp and rewarding as ever.

Alwa’s Legacy is a vibrant adventure that takes some of the best aspects of the genre and puts just enough of a spin on it to set it apart. Using magic, puzzle-solving, and exploration through the charming world of Alwa is a real joy. There may be a few hiccups in its control scheme and execution, but it doesn’t take away from the overall experience. Zoe might not be the best with memories but this is one quest you won’t soon forget.

Inmost took me by surprise as I wasn’t prepared for the incredible story it has to tell. Its gameplay and puzzle elements are perfectly symmetrical, making it easy to immerse yourself in this dark world for an evening and come out feeling satisfied, if not, a little melancholic. Load times and lack of direction do very little to hinder this adventure that I think is well worth your time.

Piofiore: Fated Memories is a game that drips in style and premise, but unfortunately doesn’t really know what to do with it, so it ends up making base appeals to those who like dark, edgy, and more morally questionable entertainment. If you liked the developer’s most recent western releases, you’d be disappointed with the lack of plot in this mafia narrative, but if you were more into Amnesia, this might be right up your alley.

Sumire is built on more narrative than adventure. Replayability comes with multiply play-throughs that add more insight to the situation and alter the conclusion. Through its childish design, Sumire covers exceptionally complicated topics that are both enchanting and thought-provoking. While the slow pacing and overall gameplay loop might hinder progression for some, I believe this to be a gem of a game.

Sunblaze will push your platforming skills to the limit. Still, as the challenge rises, so does the knowledge that everything in this game can be overcome with a few well-timed jumps and dashes. The charming design is contrasted by the bloody obstacles that await each level, creating a fun challenge that won’t leave you with too many broken controllers.

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot on Switch delivers the same high action available on other platforms at the cost of some visual graphics. Frame rate is crucial to the experience, and if things have to get a little out of focus to keep the fights moving, so be it. There’s so much to enjoy about this game, and the Switch is a fine place to experience all the stories, exploration, and intense battles that it has to offer.

fault – StP – LIGHTKRAVTE is one of the most visually impressive titles I have read in a good while, to a staggering degree. With a technically impressive background score and a solid story, I have been entirely sold on this series and want to read the rest of it very soon. I just need to find the time.

Even with the flaws in the design, and a few objects popping in on occasion, Wavetale was an absolute joy to play. From the charming graphics and characters to the amazing freedom of movement, the adventure Sigrid and the Shadow go on to discover the truth of their home is one I’m happy I got to experience.

Rusted Moss is an enjoyable Metroidvania with clever level designs and an intriguing world concept. Traversal with a grappling hook ends up being a tricky but satisfying mechanic. There’s also a comprehensive list of “difficulty changers” that can even break the game’s challenges entirely if the player wants. It’s an easy recommendation for anyone looking to swing into this niche genre.

Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons may seem like a side dish to the main course, but it still manages to be a fun beat ’em up experience. The combat mechanics are responsive, and the ever-growing challenge across each stage makes subsequent playthroughs unique, further defined by the characters you choose. One thing is for certain, even after all these years, Double Dragon remains just as cool as ever.

Anonymous;Code takes some understanding of the Science Adventure series to wholly appreciate, but its world-building is what I would regard as some of the series’ best. It acts as a culmination of ideas seen throughout numerous titles, creating an unconventional experience that is extremely rewarding. Despite a few stumbles found in the cast and the ending needing a bit more time to be fully realized, what’s here is an immaculate story with brilliant pacing that makes every scene and interaction meaningful and necessary. The fantastic English dub and presentation only serve to help matters. I have no idea where the Science Adventure series will go from here, but after seeing the sheer love and ambition poured into Anonymous;Code, I’m more confident in this series than I’ve ever been.

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.

Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remaster recaptures the whimsical charm of '90s platformers with a lovingly crafted visual upgrade and tight, nostalgic gameplay. While some outdated mechanics and weak boss design hold it back from greatness, fans of the genre will find plenty to appreciate in Croc's long-overdue comeback.

Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town is the perfect farming simulation for Switch. It eases you into the genre but provides tons of special events and milestones to hit for those who invest the most time into it. There are more than enough reasons to make this your first entry in the series or revisit Mineral Town again.

Even though I wish the in-game shop had more meaningful unlockables, and the minigames weren’t an all-pleasing cup of tea, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is an honest-to-goodness attempt at resurging this series once again. I believe it to be the best attempt yet.

Need for Speed Unbound is a game that favors glamor and style over substance. It’s an absolute visual and aural treat. Don’t get me wrong, the art direction is phenomenal, especially with the combination of unique cel-shaded effects and photo-realistic graphics. I mean, they even got A$AP Rocky to feature. I keep wanting to push the pedal to the metal and thoroughly enjoy what the game has to offer, but the endless bloat and grind to get there is beyond disheartening and frustrating. Criterion has promised free content updates in the future, so here’s to hoping it satisfies the needs of the Need for Speed community. But what Unbound has to offer at this moment is a high price tag, a cliche narrative, and an average racing experience.

Lover Pretend is not a bad otome game, but it certainly isn’t without its faults. While the plot is full of cheesy moments, none of them were memorable. If you’re tired of overly serious stories this is a breath of fresh air with a more light-hearted romance. Unfortunately, it failed to subvert my expectations, even if I can’t “pretend” that they were perhaps too high to begin with.

Amnesia: The Bunker is an immersive and terrifying experience where players are encouraged to experiment with all the in-game resources to escape a frightening situation. The lack of handholding causes some confusion in the opening moments, but the more you invest, the better this nightmare becomes. This is unlike any entry in the series to date, and I’ll hesitantly recommend it to anyone looking for a challenging scare.

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.

There are three to four hours of gameplay within the main campaign, with an additional story afterward. So, in addition to wanting to learn about Touhou, it would be advisable to have a friend who would enjoy duking it out with you, lest the game collects dust once the story is over. Overall, Touhou Spell Bubble aims for a specific demographic and does that very well.

Sucker For Love stands out for its bold premise and talented voice work, but aside from that, it can be a chore to actually play through. Its gameplay feels like padding to its core, and the writing, while occasionally humorous, presents itself as unfocused. The lack of grace with tonal balance ultimately makes this title a questionable venture that is best perceived as an entertaining experiment and nothing more. Still, its price point is fair, so if you’re moderately intrigued by what this game offers, it’s worth giving it a shot.

The Etrian Odyssey HD Origins Collection is an excellent way to start your expedition into the dungeon-crawling genre. All three titles are excellent, but the first two entries are missing some of the major quality-of-life updates found in the Untold remakes. It’s sad to think those versions were left out, given they greatly improve the experience. Regardless, the dungeon crawling system, character classes, and overall enjoyment of this collection come to a head with the inclusion of Etrian Odyssey III, which takes all the best mechanics and provides a memorable adventure to cap off an addictive and fun collection of titles.

Promise Mascot Agency is one of the most offbeat, gonzo, and bizarre experiences I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing this year while also being one of the most wholesome and comfortable. The contrast between the eccentric and the heartfelt really resonated with me. While the gameplay is simple and uncomplicated, it still draws you in because there’s just so much to be done. It just feels satisfying to be helping out these lovable characters and rejuvenating Kaso-Machi. Chaotic and easy-going in tandem, Promise Mascot Agency is a real one-of-a-kind experience.

Master Detective Archives: Rain Code delivers an excellently paced detective mystery through its clever writing and memorable cast of characters. It’s not afraid to go to some dark places and have fun at the same time within its narrative, but the balance of these themes is crafted in a way that keeps you hooked. The puzzles are all clever, and the gameloop never comes off as repetitive or straightforward. It’s an excellent experience that rivals all other releases in this genre.

2025 has already been and will undoubtedly be home to countless top-of-the-line releases. Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree has joined that list; a memorable journey for the ages.

Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus is a must-play 2D platformer that shines with its sublime movement mechanics and excellent level design. Despite a few narrative and comedic missteps, the game offers fulfilling exploration, captivating combat, and stunning visuals, making it one of the standout titles of 2024.

A clever narrative adventure, The Posthumous Investigation transforms the works of Machado de Assis into a noir-inspired mystery set in a stylized Rio de Janeiro, blending literary homage with investigative gameplay. Its looping structure and character-driven intrigue create a compelling puzzle, even if rigid progression and limited interaction occasionally disrupt the flow. The result is a thoughtful, atmospheric experience that rewards patience and curiosity while introducing players to a rich cultural legacy.

Ruined King: A League of Legends Story is a competent narrative adventure for fans of the base game, but it barely scrapes by as a standalone game for newcomers to the series. The turn-based combat mechanics are refreshing, and the story elements are there. Still, the number of outdated gameplay components and flagrant unpolish that make progression borderline impossible ultimately makes this an engaging spectacle than an enjoyable playable experience.

Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX 2 continues to deliver the 2D platforming action that players demand. The new focus on melee combat coupled with ariel dashes breaths new life into Copen’s growing arsenal. Further, I thought the narrative, characters, and bosses made this entry just as endearing as the previous, and the interaction with the environments made each stage fun to explore. I can’t wait to go on future adventures with Copen and friends.

Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster are memorable JRPGs that can finally fully spread their wings in this remastered package. While the systems might cause early confusion no matter which entry you’re playing, they both develop into a masterful adventure. The added quality-of-life features made these titles approachable for any who wish to casually revisit the narrative or experience it for the first time. I’m glad these classics have graced a modern platform for fans, both new and old.

Neva: Prologue is a short but emotionally resonant addition to Nomada Studio’s atmospheric platformer, offering a glimpse into Alba’s journey before the main game and the touching moment she meets the wolf cub Neva. While the DLC only lasts about an hour, it introduces a few clever puzzle ideas and reinforces the bond that defines the original adventure. Some players may miss the wolf-based abilities from the base game, but the shift toward Alba as a protector adds a meaningful narrative layer that strengthens the story’s emotional core.

Fae Tactics is a wonderful adventure with a compelling narrative and a unique battle system. The developers took a chance on creating a memorable experience within the genre, and they accomplished it with the help of a great cast of characters and some incredible moments of gameplay. There are a few options that I wish were available, but whether this is your first to playing a tactical RPG or your hundredth, you will most definitely have a great time.

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.

Making a beloved classic available to a grander audience is exciting no matter the context, and Tales of Berseria Remastered will assuredly continue to prove the demand for that notion. I'm positive that Switch and Xbox players who haven't played this entry before will find themselves compelled by this tale of vindictive reason...Still, the ill-crafted combat has not aged elegantly, and the necessity of this remaster is entirely meaningless for those on PlayStation and Xbox platforms. Now, I'm just hoping that Xillia 2 and titles from the PlayStation 2 era and before finally make their way to modern platforms.

The Lonesome Guild delivers a heartfelt and charming RPG adventure set in the beautifully mysterious world of Etere. With a unique possession-based combat system, a diverse cast of lovable characters, and a strong emotional core focused on friendship and loneliness, this adventure stands out as a cozy alternative to the typical autumn horror lineup. Despite a few mechanical hiccups and repetitive side quests, its thoughtful storytelling and character dynamics make it a memorable experience for RPG fans.

The Caligula Effect 2 is an incredibly modern game that encroaches on territory like no other JRPG. With a stunning soundtrack and an extremely fun battle system, it’s a riot to play. But it also has a cast ingrained into the narrative that leaves a very strong impression, and I really feel they’ll stick with me for a while.

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.

I found myself unexpectedly invested in the story of ITTA; its dark themes and mysterious characters held my attention throughout its short campaign. Aside from a few technical issues and the lack of a real postgame, ITTA is a bullet-hell experience that will quickly satisfy any craving you might have for the genre.

What works so well for Before Your Eyes is the sheer amount of quality and effort put into its creation. It is a simple narrative that’s completely fleshed out thanks to a great cast of characters, pleasant aesthetics, and innovative gameplay. Though it had a small share of technical issues, the game provides the player with a memorable journey of love, happiness, and mystery.

Blue Reflection Second Light is a powerful story of a group of magical girls stuck in a world where males just don’t exist. While they explore their past, bonds are created to deliver fun and energic moments of storytelling made grander by emotional story beats. The action-focused battle system is fast and addictive, and exploration is straightforward without weighing the experience. It’s a low barrier of entry JRPG with plenty of charm to warrant a playthrough.

Deliver Us the Moon is a space adventure for everyone. Most of the minor issues can be easily overlooked since it’s so easy to become invested in the narrative. Furthermore, the puzzles and hazards offer a challenge that doesn’t stifle the player and simply acts as a nice breather from the story bits. If you’re in the mood for a story that harbors some mystery and thrill, this is the one to pick up.

Yooka-Replaylee is a confident reimagining of Playtonic’s original 3D platformer, transforming a once-mixed debut into a polished and rewarding experience. With smoother controls, compact world design, and vibrant presentation, it confidently steps out from the shadow of its inspirations. Though not without flaws, this remake captures the joy of the genre with thoughtful updates and satisfying progression. Not every choice lands, but Yooka-Replaylee is a commendable labor of love that stands apart from its inspirations, and it deserves a spot among the greats of modern 3D platforming.

A Fold Apart is creative and bright, but it falls short on the execution of its own mechanics. The narrative is what will capture your attention as you go on a journey with these two love-starved characters. If you’re looking for an artful adventure, then you’ll find one here as assisting these characters to express their love through unconventional means was a great way to spend an evening.

Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty is a great adventure platformer that is now accessible on Switch. It’s definitely showing its age in terms of controls and design, but it still holds up all these years later. Nothing has changed in this release, so it might not be worth playing through again if you already have, but if you haven’t, this is the best time to join Abe and make your escape.

Hardcore Mecha provides you with all the tools needed to scratch that mech action itch. While the main campaign lacks narrative and creativity, the core gameplay is solid, which finds its way into the boss encounters and multiplayer mode. There’s definitely room for quality patches that would improve the experience, but a few hours of fun are packed into this title for mecha fans.

Olija is a game that thrives in its Asian fantasy atmosphere and well-realized gameplay. The story and soundtrack are artistic and evoke special moods, while the combat and exploration are a neat and interesting package. The journey is short and sweet and only held back by a few stumbles in its narrative delivery.

Heaven’s Vault is one of those extraordinary adventure games that will likely become more legendary in time. Much like the ancient Empire that players must uncover in the game, Heaven’s Vault is rife with intricate details where players are likely to notice something new each time they revisit the immense nebula. While not all of its gameplay ideas are effective, and Aliya as a protagonist can take a while to become likable, the adventure as a whole is staggeringly epic, one that makes you feel like a providential participant in a dynamically evolving narrative.

Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider is an excellent experience. It's challenging yet rewarding, and the core gameplay and solid design fundamentals make it an absolute blast to play. This ninja action platformer takes one of gaming's most legendary action sub-genres and makes it relevant again for 2023.

There is a lot to love in Neurodiver, and I feel as if my time with it has been a net positive overall. It has a fun, upbeat story, and many lovable characters are in every corner. The gameplay concept is strong, and the visuals are, without question, absolutely top-notch. But it's hard not to feel a little disappointed; I think that's partly a problem with my own heightened expectations, but there are portions of Neurodiver feel lacking and poorly handled to me when I put all of my presumptions aside.

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.

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.

Eclipsium is an unsettling and introspective indie thriller from developer Housefire and publisher Critical Reflex that blends slow-paced exploration with psychological tension. Instead of traditional scares, it builds dread through atmosphere, abstract storytelling, and a haunting pixelated world. The game challenges players to persist through cryptic environments and moments of sacrifice, offering a deeply personal experience that lingers beyond the ending. While its mechanics are minimal and pacing deliberate, Eclipsium succeeds as an experimental journey into discomfort and emotional weight.

Million Depth is a standout indie strategy RPG that blends atmospheric storytelling with innovative mechanics, delivering a uniquely layered experience beneath the Earth's surface. Players control Moma in a future where humanity has fled underground, navigating branching routes, emotional story arcs, and a hybrid combat system that defies genre expectations. While its complexity may overwhelm early on, those who persist will find a rich, replayable game filled with strategic depth and narrative intrigue.

While the game itself is basically the same Virtua Fighter 5 bolstered with a graphical makeover, it’s hard to fault it when the core fighting system is just so meticulously polished. Regardless of what the future may hold for the franchise, Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown is a welcome return of a 3D fighting legend, one that looks and plays better than it ever has before. The major caveat here is that the wealth of online multiplayer options are potentially held back by the netcode.

Despite the development complications along the way, Digimon Survive offers a final product that fulfills the original promise from its development team. With a tragic tone, it brings a new frame for the Digimon universe as a thriller VN with an enjoyable multi-layer SRPG combat. It’s become one of my favorite pieces of Digimon media, and it was worth the wait.

Riders Republic is a step in the right direction for open-world games. It fills the void for extreme sports games in an industry mostly filled with narrative or combat-driven projects. From the sprawling mountains of Bryce Canyon to the luscious forests of Yosemite, there’s always something beautiful to see and exciting to do. Ubisoft crafted a brilliant social, digital atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re actually participating in the Rider’s Ridge Invitational. See you on the slopes, kid.

Melatonin feels like a gorgeous love letter to long-time fans of the Rhythm Heaven series. Despite it being rather brief, the fact that every rhythm game has its own Hard Mode with a more challenging set, alongside the ability to create your own beatmaps, checks all of the boxes. If you’re looking to chill out and unwind from the sensory overload that some of its contemporaries have, Melatonin’s pastel colors beautifully represent relatable daily life and manage to form a great relaxing package that truly deserves noteworthy attention.

Tails: the Backbone Preludes tells an intriguing prequel that easily hooks the player with its story and characters, despite its glitchy flaws and potential soft locks. For those wanting to get into the Backbone universe, then this is an excellent place to start and the perfect way to introduce yourself to Howard Lotor’s life along with a genuinely charming supporting cast.

Nuclear Blaze is a brief, yet, almost therapeutic gameplay experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome, but it did have me wishing for more. Still, I’d much rather feel that than the opposing extreme. You could do much worse if you’re looking for a quaint lunch-long adventure with just a few spooks.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate delivers a slick, fast-paced roguelike experience with deep build variety and fun co-op mechanics. While its mobile roots show in places, the game's combat and nostalgic charm make it a worthy pick for fans of the franchise and genre.

Panzer Paladin is inspired heavily by retro 8-bit games, but it ends up setting itself apart with its own distinct identity and gameplay. The robust number of weapons and abilities you can experiment with creates a unique experience whether you’re piloting the Paladin or taking on the level on foot. If that wasn’t enough, the added bits of post-game content gives more reason to get back into your mech and play again.

From top to bottom, Time on Frog Island oozes personality. The world, music, and characters create an amazing, laid-back experience that had me laughing at the random goofiness, and just stopping to enjoy the scenery as I thought about which task to do next. If you’re a fan of more laid-back experiences like I am, I strongly suggest giving Time on Frog Island a try.

In many ways, Megaton Musashi W: Wired is quintessential Level-5, with terrific narrative and character writing alongside an addictive gameplay loop that rarely grows dull. Mech enthusiasts and newcomers will equally find facets to enjoy here. However, the story pacing and barrier of entry with mech customization prevent this mostly story-driven experience from truly soaring to loftier heights.

As a fan of Junji Ito and the Arkham Horror franchise, World of Horror instantly drew me in, delivering terrifying encounters and paying homage to various horror-related works. If you’re not a fan of the game’s visuals, you can adjust them at the start of every playthrough, from black and white to green or beige. These options allow you to settle into your preferred visual style before diving headfirst into the unsettling world of horror, best enjoyed in a dark room in the dead of night for the ultimate spine-tingling experience.

Timelie is an approachable time-manipulation adventure that only borders on the line of overly complicated or too straightforward. It strikes a perfect balance with its mechanics and even introduces unique elements into the formula that make it stand out in the genre. The open narrative and lack of enemy types leave a bit to be desired, but this is one of the best time-based puzzle games that I’ve played in years.

Bramble: The Mountain King is an excellent horror adventure that doesn’t overstay its welcome and constantly delivers nail-biting moments of gameplay. Its narrative and characters immerse the player in this world heightened by the wonderful sound design and environments. You should make this your next weekend game. Sure, you might lose some sleep for a few nights after, but you’ll have a really good time.

Dark Deity 2 is a clear improvement over its predecessor, offering streamlined, satisfying tactical combat and strong customization. While the story and presentation fall short, the engaging gameplay and replayability make it a worthwhile experience for strategy RPG fans.

Fabledom is a whimsical city builder that combines fairy tale themes with relaxed gameplay, making it perfect for newcomers to the genre. While it may lack the complexity and challenge of other city builders, its beautiful visuals, simple mechanics, and light-hearted humor create a delightful and engaging experience. If you're looking for a game to unwind with and enjoy building a magical kingdom, Fabledom is a charming choice.

Cronos: The New Dawn is a bold, atmospheric survival horror experience from Bloober Team, blending psychological storytelling, intense resource management, and inventive time-travel mechanics into a haunting, unforgiving journey that rewards skill and immersion.