You’re only as strong as your weakest link, and with so many links in the Sakuna chain, you expect something to give way at some stage – but it never happens. Every part of the gameplay experience holds up, and meshes together so well that it takes several disparate elements, that for all intents and purposes, simply shouldn’t go together, and brings them together in a wonderful symphony that must be played before it can be truly appreciated.

Some refinements are needed in only a few select areas, otherwise Visions Of Mana is a wonderful return for the IP.

Lords Of The Fallen doesn’t mess around. It’s a no-holds-barred, unapologetic rollercoaster ride from start to finish, and I can’t wait to go again.

Platinum and Team Ninja have joined forces to not only capture the spirit of the Ninja Gaiden franchise, but to bring it into the modern day with rare skill and style. An absolute action master piece that will have fans hooked for its entire blood-soaked runtime.

Samurai Showdown is a unique fighter in a world where many games in the genre can feel similar. The slower pace/high damage fighting system is a joy to master and provides players of all skill levels the feeling that they are always in the match, no matter how bad things are going. This, along with a huge range of entertaining fighters, smooth as silk gameplay and a solid PC port means this is a game that fighting fans should at the very least check out.

Khazan had its hooks in me so deep that I kept throwing myself at the game, pushing myself to get better. When playing most of the games in this genre, I would just grind until I was powerful enough to overcome the boss fights. Not this time. I had to get better. I had to win. And there is no better feeling than conquering that mountain.

A stunning car adventure that tears through its Japanese location with style and panache, Forza Horizon 6 won’t offer many surprises, but it is still best in class when it comes to a car-focused title for everyone.

Everyone experiences grief at some point, but I did not think a game would help me come to terms with it and the emotions it causes.

Puyo Puyo tetris 2 is an enjoyable yet simple puzzler that combines two classic titles into one fantastic game that is sure to leave a smile on your face.

The Medium is an atmospherically creepy psychological thriller that puts a new spin on the genre while evoking feelings that fans of Silent Hill will find familiar. If you’ve been looking for a tense horror game that’s largely without jump scares but will still leave you with chills, this one’s for you.

Harmonix has always been a studio whose love for music infuses every title they’ve had a hand in. Fuser feels like the first time they’ve finally found a way to guide players towards engaging with said music on a deeper level than other rhythm titles, but in the process may turn away anybody who solely desires to recreate songs on plastic instruments or is hell-bent on chasing high scores while notes drop at blistering speeds.

The next-gen version of NBA 2K is a true step forward in both graphical prowess and inclusivity. An improved attitude towards micro-transactions also makes this the friendliest NBA 2K has been in a long time.

The product of years of toil from Techland, Dying Light 2 easily exceeds anything they have previously released and is one of the premium open world experiences available today. Any aspiring zombie hunter shouldn’t hesitate to dive right in.

This isn’t an RPG for everyone. It’s fairly hardcore, it leans into history (albeit out of order) and it is mechanically very dense. What matters most, and after playing a hundred hours of this damn thing and planning on diving back in, is that it’s an RPG for me.

Far Cry 6 is both exceptional and surprising. It gave me more than I ever could have expected from the franchise and has redefined what a Far Cry game can be going forward.

Shadows is a stunning return to form for both the franchise and Ubisoft as a whole. Beautiful locations, engaging combat and an unrelenting attention to small details make this one of the best Creed games ever.

Individual skill gets kills; squad play wins the war. Battlefield 6 is revived, resupplied and ready to roll.

Addictive and engaging in a way that not many games can lay claim to, Monster Train 2 is a must buy for anyone looking for that perfect roguelike experience.

From the opening notes of the Indy theme, I was transported to the realm of one of my favourite fictional characters of all time and that is the Great Circle’s greatest achievement in my eyes.

If you’re a true crime fan, this is going to be the one for you, while also showing you the dangers of letting a true crime obsession go too far. Sometimes, I guess we all need a reminder that going to an exact replica of a place where gruesome murders happened is a terrible idea, even if it is in the name of ‘art’.

Supremely satisfying and undeniably addictive, Remnant II takes the solid foundations of the first game and elevates them in every single way creating one of the best games of the year.

An absurd, insane and all-round mental JRPG that will have fans wrapped from its opening to its heartwarming close, Infinite Wealth is the best game in the franchise and the perfect way to experience this well-loved franchise.

Viewfinder is a success like few others in its genre. It’s a challenge that all of us should be taking on.

Judgment is still a fantastic title on the next-gen systems and while existing owners may not see a reason to upgrade to the newer version, there is no reason anyone else should hesitate in diving into this addictive crime soap-opera.

Mortal Kombat 1 is finally here and it’s every bit as entertaining as we’ve come to expect from Netherealm Studios. It looks good, plays great and has more content than you can poke a metal dart attached to a rope at. Some minor balancing issues aside, this is a much-welcomed addition to the franchise

The Spider-Man franchise, across, TV, comics, and games, has never been in better hands than it is right now. Only technical flaws hold Peter and Miles’ latest web-slinging adventure back from excellence.

While the single player is a bit flaky, the core online tilt of Splatoon 3 is strong and refined, offering simple, addictive, and enjoyable matches for casual players and pros alike. With promised support for years to come, we forward to enjoying what Nintendo brings to expand and round out the experience.

If true love is accepting flaws, then I suppose I loved Death Stranding 2, its foibles and peccadillos apparent but of no real consequence during my time with it. A few days out from full release, I still haven’t quite digested everything Kojima and the many, many other people that worked on Death Stranding 2 are trying to say, and maybe I never will.

The amazing blend of solid combat mechanics, Interesting time powers, various beautiful locales to explore, interesting characters to meet, and a slew of awesome boss fights leaves me wanting to explore the mountain more and more.

Horizon: Zero Dawn Remastered is a superb remaster of an incredible title, but the question must still be asked... was it a necessary upgrade?

One or two unnecessary chapters and some half-hearted multiplayer can’t get in the way of what is a sensational Fire Emblem experience.

TRON: Catalyst shows tie-in games don't have to be rushed out the door. They can instead offer some fantastic action combined with a story that feels appropriate, yet also important in its own small way.

Road to Empress was a surprise. Despite having no vested interest in the genre or period going into the game, I came out a massive fan. Is it enough to make me want to watch a bunch of palace dramas? No. I like the interactive nature of this game, and it does make me want to play me want to play more. If you’re after a dramatic, sometimes silly and overall great fun FMV experience, this should be at the top of your list.

Sektori is brutal; it looks to crush you under its sheer force at every turn, such that getting to the game’s end will be one of the most satisfying moments that you’ll find in gaming in 2025. It looks beautiful, is incredibly overstimulating, hates your guts, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The king of the popcorn action-adventure experience comes to PlayStation, and he does so in the grandest of ways.

If the story doesn’t get you, the decision making will, and if that doesn’t get you, the gameplay will. There could be more balance to the world-building V combat ratio, but each element remains superb.

Exactly the sort of game that this old reviewer needed to refresh his love of the medium. Pragmata uses a classic, almost-lost formula along with some brand new and exciting gameplay to create an absolutely epic adventure that deserves everyone’s attention.

I know this game isn’t going to be for everyone – but I don’t think it needs to be. We Are OFK is by no means perfect – but it’s undeniably something special.

Though a much harder game to pitch than many other exclusive titles that come from PlayStation Studios, Returnal has every right to belong in the same conversation that titles from the likes of Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Sucker Punch, Guerilla, and Santa Monica do. It’s a wonderful point of difference within the PS5 portfolio of titles, but in its own right, it shines too. It might feel like you’re beating your head against a very smart wall, but persist, because as you learn to play by the game’s very specific set of rules, mastery will reward you with one of the finest titles you’re likely to play in 2021.

Only the mildest inconveniences dampen the experience. Make no elder dragon bones about it, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is the best in the sub-franchise, and one of the best JRPGs on the market at present.

Little Hope is a solid spooky story best enjoyed with popcorn and friends. The tension is high, the fear is real, and the mechanics are improved from the previous Dark Pictures instalment. If you’re interested in some witchy goodness and moral judgements, this might be the spooky story for you.

It is a unique experience that isn’t comfortable, but never tries to be. It encourages exploration, contemplation and, when required, swift brutality in equal measure and most of all it is a game that believes in its world so wholeheartedly it is impossible to avoid being drawn in. I won’t say I loved every minute of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, some of those minutes I was an absolute nervous wreck, but I will say that I am incredibly glad I got to experience it.

It’s been quite a while since I’ve enjoyed playing a Sonic title this much, with both halves of Sonic X Shadow Generations combining to make a great package.

A near purrfect throwback to a beloved gaming era, Stray tugs on heartstrings, whilst it also delivers an enjoyable playing experience lined with superb production value.

Different audiences will appreciate Gears of War: Reloaded to differing degrees, but nonetheless, this is the best way to enjoy the franchise’s opening chapter yet.

Everything feels well balanced, nothing feels unfair when encountering a Prime Asset, and the Trials are varied, with mazes, puzzles, and grotesque elements all combining to offer a unique experience that horror fans should absolutely take a chance on.

The DLC’s shorter length does make the juxtaposition between heated, Gears action, and deeper, more heartfelt moments, feel a bit like the flicking of a switch, but the campaign itself is a must-play for fans of Gears. It makes some interesting steps forward for the IP, introduces a fascinating new cast, while the moment to moment is as thrilling as ever.

While Sifu is a challenge that will test your skills and the durability of your controllers, fans of Soulslike game and kung fu will have a lot of fun beating down thugs in a variety of environments.

A well-scribbled note in the margins of the Borderlands universe, that should elicit a chortle or two from anyone still drawing breath.

Some tired writing tropes of the 1980s stick out in sometimes frustrating ways, but Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is a masterful reworking of two genre pioneers. It’s amazing to have them back.

MIO: Memories In Orbit is abstract, quirky, brutally hard, and stunning all at once, and outside of those awful tremors, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

There is so much to like in this open-world tactics RPG. The battles are some of the best in the business. The world, while feeling somewhat empty, for the right kind of person is a wilderness ripe for spending hours upon hours getting into fights. With 45 hours on the clock by the time my goblins completed their quest, this juicy tale has become a favourite that I know I’ll return to time and time again.

An incredibly thought provoking archaeological game of big questions with even bigger philosophical implications. Though hampered somewhat by clunky physical mechanics, translating an ancient language has never been so enticing or exciting.

Serious Sam Siberian Mayhem won’t scratch the itch for something new, but if you’re craving a fix of some chaotic FPS goodness, it certainly hits the spot without overstaying its welcome.

Two Point Museum takes everything from the series and makes it better. It’s still lacking a bit in the management metrics side, but everything else is exceptional.

A hauntingly beautiful-in-motion Metroidvania seeped in death.

A few graphical hiccups stop The Last of Us: Part 2 Remastered on PC from being perfect, but even still this is a watershed moment in gaming that should be experienced by everyone at least once.

A beautiful and exciting action platformer that will test your skill as it stuns you with its looks. Welcome back, Shinobi, welcome back.

Sackboy: A Big Adventure, is a big step in a fresh direction for the overall franchise. Leaving the tried and true ‘Play, Create, Share’ model behind is a gutsy move from Sumo Digital, but is one that greatly benefits the final product, with each level clearly benefiting from the extra TLC that comes from not dedicating time to an all-consuming creation mode.

A great idea that never quite reaches its full promise, Watch Dogs: Legion is still a cracking bit of techno fun. Come for the hacking and stay for the engaging story and cockney accents.

The impact of some excellent new additions is dampened somewhat by some other lacklustre ones. All said though, Super Mario Party Jamboree is an excellent title and the ultimate Switch party game.

Chorus is a joy from start to finish and I strongly implore that anyone who has ever enjoyed shooting things in a spaceship gives it a good hard look.

Scarlet Nexus combines intense combat with a twisting, turning storyline that comes in two parts, providing players two different perspectives to experience the weird and wonderful world of New Himuka.

Venba’s story will draw heightened emotion from players no matter their background, while the cooking systems are fantastically fresh.

There are some reviews that are hard to write because the game is just fine, and then there are some that just pour out of you because you can’t help but think of all the things it does well. Lacuna is well and truly the latter, with every small piece pulling together to create a really great detective game ripe for the picking.

Origami King is entirely pleasant, well written, charming and enjoyable without being essential or ground breaking. While the battles are confusing and far too frequent, the exploration, constant unveiling of secrets, colourful environments and quirky characters will keep you hooked.

There are some rough environments, and the game isn’t as long as I’d like, but I’ve learned so much from this experience that’s going to make me a better person, and hopefully makes the industry better too.

Tina’s madcap mind brings joy, humour and originality to a franchise that was starting to lose its shine. A must-play for fans of the Borderlands.

A reminder of a more innocent time, Puzzle Quest Immortal Edition is the same great game it always was, just released in a more cynical and jaded world.

Never before has a Kirby game made me feel so inadequate as a gamer while also making me want to become better. Enjoyable in short bursts, those who dive into its systems and challenges will find their efforts rewarded.

MechWarrior 5: Clans takes the core of its predecessor and expands upon it by giving you on interesting cast and story to explore alongside the combat. Though some of it might be overpowering at first, you’ll find a lot to enjoy, despite the challenge of some of its missions.

A nostalgia kick that doesn’t simply copy its inspiration, it improves on it. Tempest Rising is the RTS return that genre fans have been waiting for.

There is a lot greatness to be found in Neva, it’s just that the game isn’t paced well enough to enjoy the ride to its fullest.

Though there are imperfections, Grow: Song Of The Evertree soothes a restless soul like few games can.

Nikoderiko is the perfect amalgamation of everything that makes Platformers great. It does nothing new, but that doesn’t matter because it nails the best elements from the best examples of the genre and puts them together in one satisfying package.

NBA 2K25 is a big step in the right direction for a franchise that was fast losing its appeal.

There is quite frankly an overwhelming amount of content in Warriors Orochi 4 Ultimate – while those upgrading from the base game may find it difficult to justify the cost outside of Infinity Mode, there’s no question that anybody tossing up between the base Orochi 4 and Ultimate at this point should absolutely go with the latter.

Worryingly repetitious early missions are quickly left in the rear-view mirror as the best of Space Marine 2 takes hold. You may be experienced with the IP, or brand new to it, but either way, you’re in for a great time.

Games don’t come much more grandiose than Persona 5 Royal. While occasionally straining under the sheer scale of its many gameplay and story elements, Royal’s many improvements plus grounded characters, addictive combat and flamboyant presentation are overwhelmingly endearing traits.

In the immortalised words of a fellow reviewer, “Too much water”, but beyond that, Steamworld Heist II delivers in all the places that count the most.

With a solid Showcase mode, plenty of content to engage with and tons of wrestlers to unlock and play with, WWE 2K25 may not be a technical jump forward, but an instalment that will be well worth your time if you are a fan of the WWE.

Gorn is the perfect way to release pent up frustrations or to just have a bit of a laugh and some fun. While there is not much more to the game it is not necessarily a bad thing. Gorn knows what it is and doesn’t try to be anything else by shoehorning in unnecessary mechanics.

As well as being an excellent demonstration of the future ahead for owners of the PS5, Astro’s Playroom serves as an excellent, albeit brief platformer. You’ll find that just as the game really begins to come into its own, it ends, and that’s an almighty shame, but will likely you leaving salivating at the prospect of what is to come for Astro Bot and friends.

There are many steps forward, and some small half-steps back, and while Axiom Verge 2 is certainly worth your time, it was on the verge of being something even greater, and just couldn’t quite get there.

While Metroid Prime 4 suffers from some poorly implemented hub-region design, and a grating Myles MacKenzie, every other part sings, and Nintendo fans should celebrate the return of this video game icon.

Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV features new modes of play atop an already exhaustive number of mini-games. The game maintains its same strike-rate as well, propelling an already excellent game to new heights.

A far more brutal experience than its predecessor, Doom Eternal isn’t for the weak, but master the ruleset and you’re in for a hell of a time.

For advanced players, it may be more of the same with a different paint job, but as someone who has had less engagement with RTS titles as a whole, Iron Harvest has been a really solid introduction for me. With a unique well-researched universe and context, and interesting combat mechanics, I look forward to diving further into multiplayer and to seeing more of the 1920+ universe down the road.

While the respect Nintendo is showing to the titles is insufficient, it’s still hard for anyone to argue against a collection of three of the greatest games of all time.

If Ghost of Tsushima is something you have already experienced, then the PC version probably isn’t enough to get your money for a second time. If you missed it the first time around though it is a fantastic adventure that is even better on a powerful computer.

Dungeons of Hinterberg is a striking, self-aware adventure game that both excels and suffers for its impressive variety of puzzling and action mechanics. If you like adventure games, you're likely to have a great time on this “slaycation”.

It is hardcore (and genuinely challenging), but the light, rhythmic feel of gameplay moderates the experience. Dungeons of Dreadrock is slated to be a trilogy. You can absolutely count on me playing one hundred more levels.

Monster Hunter Stories might be eight years old, and might have been succeeded by a newer entry, but those factors do not diminish its incredible quality. Now accessible more than ever before, Stories is a game that must be accessed by fans of the franchise as well as JRPG-fans as well.

The love of Thief, and even more recent stealth gems such as Mark of the Ninja shine through in Wildfire, but it’s the game’s own systems that help it to stand out amongst its peers. There are a small number of issues affecting the gameplay, but overall this is a very polished, suitably challenging and wonderfully realised concept that toys with your pre-conceptions of the genre.

If you have ever enjoyed Civilization, I can confidently say that Humankind is going to be right up your alley, bringing enough differences to step out of the shadow of its inspiration and stand on its own as a must buy strategy title.

A tight, turn-based take on classic 80s cinema, Showgunners is a bite-sized blast that is sure to appeal to fans of Xcom. It doesn't reinvent the wheel in any way, but it does nail both the core gameplay loop and the aesthetic and you can't ask for much more than that

With its multilayered story, atmospheric horror and clever puzzle design; Re:Turn - One Way Trip is a spooky delight. A train that you should catch, just in time for a Halloween vibe.

An unrivalled adrenaline-pumping platformer, Sonic X Shadow Generations arrives as a launch title for the Switch 2 in perfect condition. Fans of the franchise or genre should, without doubt, have this on their must-buy list.