With a combination of multiple features and mechanics from different genres, as well as a setting that's steeped in mystery, Chernobylite attempts to be the jack-of-all-trades. Unfortunately, a mediocre combat system, repetitive mission structure, and dull gameplay loop lead to questionable results.

Humankind is ambitious in size, scale, and scope, allowing you to try out multiple combinations of cultures as you progress through various eras. However, it's also hampered by limitations in certain mechanics and systems that don't mesh well with the overall gameplay.

Harvestella may have unsightly character models and rote combat, but it offers a satisfying blend of farming sim and action RPG that scratches the itches it's supposed to.

WWE 2K24 is a huge win for the series. If you look past the technical issues, you can see a full packaged game. However, the premier mode WrestleMania may leave you unsatisfied with how empty it can be.

Sonic Frontiers succeeds in finally making Sonic truly work in 3D without many of the problems that plagued past titles. While it's far from perfect and could have used more polish, it's a fairly impressive game that offers up most everything fans could want.

As long as you don't plan on making a repeat playthrough, Erica is a great experience. Only upon replay do issues like limited narrative variation, non-essential quicktime events, and the illusion of choice make an appearance. Despite that, this is a fantastic use of the FMV genre that more people deserve to experience.

Wavetale is only four hours long and can be too one-note for its own good, but a captivating world and resonant story make it worth playing all the same.

While familiar and somewhat basic, Outriders has a lot of riveting action and a compelling gameplay loop that will satisfy people looking for their next looter shooter fix.

Though admittedly basic, Skate City has brought a bit of the "pick-up-and-play" mechanics of mobile to PC, with mixed results. The basic visuals are countered by fairly complex controls, that are a fairly substantial time-suck to perfect. Some may not find this to be their cup of tea, but if your willing to invest the time and effort to 'git gud,' there's plenty of fun, just waiting to be uncovered.

Although it appears extremely light on content at first, the DLC and workshop mode both do a lot to make this an enjoyable Bubble Bobble experience that should satisfy anyone looking for some classic gameplay.

ScourgeBringer has strong pixel visuals, extremely tight gameplay, and a high level of challenge. But a lack of variety limits its appeal.

Cute, charming, and surprisingly satisfying, Unpacking scratches an itch that no other game attempts. But it's also too bossy for its own good at times.

DNF Duel may take it's simplification a step too far, but it's still a flashy and satisfying anime fighter that's approachable for players of all skill levels.

While not up to the level of its inspirations, Yurukill: The Calumniation Games is an enjoyable visual novel that does an excellent job of merging its storytelling with shoot 'em up gameplay.

Bus Simulator 21 certainly kicks things into high gear above its predecessor with a lot of appreciated quality-of-life improvements. But, it's brought down by an awkward driving system, UI clutter, AI clunkiness, and apparent optimization issues. Yet, it remains a solid new product in the active driving sim genre.

Epic Chef got under my skin a fair amount, but it's so insanely funny that I can't help but forgive its shortcomings. I wish it was less grindy and had some of the tedium lessened, but this is an entertaining, lengthy game with a ton of personality. You hear me?!

Far Cry 6 Vaas: Insanity provides a deeper and more nuanced look at a troubled character. Unfortunately, it has a fairly restrictive rogue-lite system if you're pressed for time. Worse, there's not a lot to look forward to after your initial clear.

Although it has demanding system requirements, The Medium is still a marvelous offering when it comes to its visuals and gameplay. Its locations will haunt and horrify you, and its dual-reality system will provide refreshing ways to complete your objectives. Unfortunately, it also suffers from a few technical hiccups, and its bizarrely abrupt conclusion leaves a lot to be desired.

Button City is a good game that most people will have a fun time playing through. For just $20, it's reasonably priced and does a good job of putting a smile on your face. However, there is a missed opportunity to further explore certain topics which holds back the narrative's huge potential to be something more.

The connected, living world here is a genuine revelation, and it's well worth exploring if you're willing to mess around and make your own fun. It's just a shame that some of the vibrancy and depth of Watch Dogs 2 has been lost in the process.

Necromunda: Hired Gun has some jank and some odd qualities, but when tearing your way through hordes of cyborgs is this much fun, I don't really mind so much.

Madden NFL 25 is a step in the right direction for the franchise and we hope EA keeps this momentum going to make the next entry even better.

Age of Mythology: Retold is brimming with contrasts, and yet the game's most important asset, the combat and myth units, aren't as interesting or exciting past their legendary visages.

An effectively creepy atmosphere combined with an intriguing story and unique combat, Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water is well worth picking up. It can slog some when it forces you to revisit the same areas that you just saw and the movement is clunky and awkward, but those can't sink the rest of the enterprise into the mire.

Its immense creativity is what helps set Shot in the Dark apart from its peers. While some may find its platforming a bit more difficult to master, it's almost as stratifying mechanically as it it artistically. Rest assured that this hellaciously challenging trip to the corral is a Hamilton well spent.

Not every game here is essential (or even worth playing), but there are enough gems that even new players will find something to enjoy.

After a six year absence, Scott Pilgrim is once again back for blood. Aside from a few technical issues that will hopefully be ironed out soon, there is no reason to ignore the siren's call for a second time. It's high time to suit up and kick some bass.

How to Say Goodbye explores the afterlife from a more personal point of view, with a focus on healing at your own pace. If you can ignore the sometimes clunky puzzle solving, this is an easy day-length game to play when you want a lighter approach to death.