And, unfortunately, despite extra time on the grill, Heroes V's ribs are tasty, but still a bit undercooked. [Aug 2006, p.48]

A diverse array of factions to try, that drag the Total War series back into the Medieval era.

A fun, imaginative platformer that’s full of ideas, but prepare to die, a lot.

A greater focus on raiding tombs, and massively improved stealth combat, make this one of Lara Croft's best modern adventures.

I was bowled over by the level of quality of all this one person has achieved. Olija is clearly Olsson's personal work, and its story, of Europeans lost in mysterious and frightening Eastern waters, in part reflects his own experience of moving from his birthplace in France to Japan to be with his wife. But I felt sometimes a disquieting air of orientalist fantasy, as we encounter an inscrutable culture headed by the beautiful Lady Olija, who we chase into submission. But I also loved the clash of rough and ready mariners facing a strange and terrible world of corrupted beauty. I only wish their voyage was a little longer.

A supremely satisfying turn-based strategy spin-off, and one of Persona's best ever stories.

An emotive story that is equal parts terrifying and traumatic.

Short, sweet, and utterly charming, Herdling's evocative beauty more than makes up for its superficial gameplay.

The combo of roguelikes and gambling should probably be more addictive than this.

Another incremental upgrade, Magic 2014 is still just the bastard child of Magic Online and the physical card game.

Fun combat and a sophisticated city burdened with the unfulfilled potential of a far scarier experience.

Dropping into multiplayer battles in Prejudice's armored suit is a thrill, and its battles are never over 'till they're over. [July 2011, p.68]

The immersion of VR elevates this strong action RPG journey into something special. [Oculus Tested]

A tubthumping tribute to the 40K universe, with perfectly grim design. Multiplayer definitely needs work on its balance though.

There’s a lot to love in the core loop, but this diamond in the rough gets buried under a repetitive campaign and late game balance issues.

Not as rich an experience as it should be, but it is finally fun to play again. [Oct 2005, p.62]

It may not look like much with its dated 2D graphics, but beneath the surface is one of the richest empire-builders around. [July 2005, p.85]

A worthy end to Dragon Age: Inquisition. A lengthy quest with a satisfying pay-off makes up for some unimaginative encounters.

An island full of riveting mysteries, stuck with some truly awful and jarring combat.

And if I were developer Jonathan Mak, I'd ask for a lot more than $9 for a game this fresh, this unique, and this enjoyable. [Aug 2008, p.62]

Some deliciously well-rendered visuals have been used to re-create each of the 16 warships and submarines you control, and the ocean effects - which range from gentle swells to full-blown gales - are so convincing that you may find yourself reaching for Dramamine. [June 2003, p.68]

The narrative is strong and dark, but the game beneath it struggles to keep up.

Despite some shallow ancillary systems, Bannerlord is the master of medieval warfare

A fine superhero SWAT team tactics game smothered by a little too much admin.

Vast and obtuse in a way that is going to frustrate some and exhilarate others, Crimson Desert is a fascinating journey, even when the destination isn't all that.

A space strategy game that streamlines empire-building better than any other. Combat and AI could be better. [Nov 2012, p.70]

It’s got nothing on Final Fantasy at its best, but it’s still an excellent example of the genre with some fun twists on RPG traditions.

A well-formed slice of noir mystery, beautifully presented. Some writing issues aside, A Case of Distrust is well worth your time.