Spica Adventure pulls off the unique trick of making you feel nostalgic for a game you’ve likely never played before. Kinetic, frenetic, perhaps even system syncretic, it’s a fun call-back to the heyday of chipper action platformers.

Overall, Back to the Dawn is fantastic. There’s so much to do that you’ll be kept busy for many, many hours. I found myself thinking about my in-game plans before real-life bed – it just gets in your head. The retro graphics, fun characters, and seemingly endless quests all add towards a game that’s well worth your time.

Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream thrives on chaos, creativity, and offbeat humor, offering a constantly evolving experience that improves on the original. It isn’t deeply structured, but that unpredictability is where the fun comes from. While future updates and larger DLC would help reduce repetition, its charm still holds strong. It’s a unique and worthwhile pick for anyone wanting something fresh and different.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits is a natural fit for the Nintendo Switch 2 in both presentation and gameplay. It could (and should) have done a bit more to introduce newcomers to the elements of this world, but it offers a charming, occasionally dark adventure that will fully engage players once they settle in.

SHINONOME ABYSS The Maiden Exorcist is a roguelite action/puzzle game that changes up the approach to each. It presents a fun environment that challenges players to be inventive with limited resources, creating a rewarding experience for those who aren’t put off by the game’s deliberate pacing.

Overall, the Switch 2 edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a lovely update that provides plenty to do. While some fans will lament the lack of much content for solo players, remember this is basically DLC. I, too, want a new Mario outing; for now, this is a pretty fun addition to a wonderful game.

Dragon Spira will keep you busy with plenty to do in this JRPG, including a solid storyline and fun gameplay mechanics.

As expected from Flynn’s Arcade, Living Dead House is another retro action game that perfectly captures the look and feel of an ’80s arcade machine. The gameplay may start to wear thin after a bit, but like the era it emulates, it offers tremendous fun a few rounds at a time.

Dispatch is a generally well-crafted game with a fun storyline, interesting characters, and clever decision-making mechanics. The dispatch minigame at its core is also genuinely fun, but the game overall would benefit from the possibility of failure to give it higher stakes and make your effort feel truly impactful.

Woolhaven is a solid addition to the base game, adding so much that it feels like a sequel. The development team has done a fantastic job expanding the lore and keeping fans invested in this cute-yet-deadly world.

Etrange Overlord is one of the more unique action RPGs I’ve played in quite some time; hard to not be when the game is basically a musical set in hell. Its unique gameplay elements, cast of characters, and sense of humor carry it through when the action and setting start to wear thin.

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club has its issues. That said, the Peanuts fan in me could often overlook them. The charm and feeling of childhood innocence that this game offers carries much weight. The formula is a winner and is only a few changes away from being outstanding. I hope to see it return in an expanded sequel, perhaps with difficulty options, and definitely a bit more polish. Don’t let this game fall victim to the Kite-Eating Tree.

Pokémon Pokopia is cuteness overload with low-stakes, but still an intriguing story. You’ll never run out of anything to do and put hours of fun into this game.

The Perfect Pencil mixes a really cool hand-drawn style with a dark, symbolic story about inner struggles. The gameplay follows a familiar Metroidvania formula, but creative enemy designs and the analysis mechanic keep it engaging. Frustrating save points hold it back a bit, but it’s still a solid and slightly unsettling experience.

Capcom delivers an aesthetically pleasing world that’s fun to explore in Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection. Whether riding your monster, scaling cliffs, swimming, or digging, the game offers variety that keeps you busily exploring. The plot and some gameplay systems can feel slower-paced at times. But a likable cast and entertaining side quests bring balance.

As a fan of the Ridge Racer series, I’m happy to add Rave Racer to my collection. It’s a challenging game that should keep me returning as I aim to shave seconds off my best time. I recommend it to fellow fans, while those less invested in the series should probably wishlist it for a future sale.

The Switch 2 port of Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is nearly perfect. It looks beautiful, plays wonderfully, and will keep tactical stealth gamers engaged for playthrough after playthrough. We need more games like this.

Modest though it may be, Poker Night at the Inventory proves to be as fun as ever. And while it’s easy to wish for more, the game is only $9.99. To quote Strong Bad, that’s “Chump change, I say. Chump change!” The game’s charming personality guarantees you’ll be busting it out for a tournament or two every now and again.

Resident Evil Village: Gold Edition, offers a tense, action-packed thrill-ride through some wonderfully styled sub-genres of horror. With so much to explore, collect, and fall prey to, it’ll keep fans engaged for quite a while, and rekindle fandom for those who lost it.

Prison City is a high-quality game in the NES mold, and its difficulty reflects that. But there are more than enough options, so most gamers will find some genuine enjoyment. And if you were an NES kid, you’ll enjoy this Retroware release even more! Newly updated and now with a physical edition, don’t overlook this game if you initially did. Whether you’re a collector springing for a physical copy or someone looking for a good value digital game, Prison City is great fun for fans of challenging retro-style action platformers.

Scott Pilgrim EX offers plenty of lighthearted fun, fast-paced fighting, character variety, and replay value. Any negatives are very minimal, and usually revolve around varying personal preferences. This is a worthy addition to your adventure/brawler library.

While there’s no excuse for this collection taking nine years to arrive on Nintendo hardware, it’s undeniable that this package represents five years of classic 8-bit (and now 16-bit) games that hold up in sheer fun. For an NES kid like me, this is a 10 out of 10 package for the pair of DuckTales games alone, never mind the underrated TaleSpin and the original Rescue Rangers in co-op. I recognize that those without nostalgia might lean closer to the 8 range. After all, the challenge is higher (especially without an NES controller), the bonus content is on the lighter side, and there aren’t any Game Boy versions. So, I’ll reluctantly split the difference and, with my gaming acumen engaged, award The Disney Afternoon Collection a 9 out of 10.

Overall, Resident Evil 7 biohazard Gold Edition is a fantastic return to form for the series. Sure, it’s a few years old now. But if you want the true Resident Evil experience ahead of playing Resident Evil 9 this is a great entry that’s well worth your time. Just keep the lights on if you’re playing at night. What was that sound…?

Pinball M – Bethesda Pinball is a unique collection of tables that impressively incorporate design and RPG elements of the video games that inspired them. Pinball aficionados may take issue with various elements, but should enjoy the unique challenges each table presents.

While other compilations are more robust, Super Bomberman Collection is still a blast with its seven games on offer. The solo gamer in you will have fun in smaller sessions, and grab some friends for a local battle or couch co-op (no online play), and you’ll have an even better time.

Overall. Mario Tennis Fever is a terrific entry in this long-running series. It adds a new gimmick that doesn’t distract from the game yet balances the playing field. Plus, you can turn it off if it’s not for you. With plenty of multiplayer modes and a decent solo adventure, this is a title that will satisfy even the most disgruntled of Mario Sports fans.

Dark Auction is a graphic novel with point-and-click adventure elements. You play as Noah, a man who enters an auction to avenge his father. Throughout the game, you’ll explore, chat, and complete orders, all while solving puzzles to uncover the mystery behind your father’s life and death.

There are only small segments of Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition that feel like a Lara Croft adventure, but the game is still quite fun once you accept this reboot of the iconic character. It’s definitely a trip worth taking, even if the Switch 2 version doesn’t offer everything it could have.

It’s the compelling interplay of thrilling story, memorable characters, enjoyable puzzles, and stunning presentation that ensures Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged will become a top choice for a new generation of players. Let’s hope the sequel (and the rest of the series) finds a home on Nintendo hardware. It’s 2024, and my game of the year is a graphic adventure first released in 1996. Go figure.

GRID Legends: Deluxe Edition is a robust, lovingly developed arcade racing game that looks and plays wonderfully on the Switch 2. The live-action story is goofy fun, but the thrill is in the racing, and you get an incredible number of ways to take part.

Ninja Gaiden II remains a memorable and well-made game (great in respects). But it’s showing its age, even among some of its 8-bit contemporaries. This release is recommended for NES fans, especially those who grew up with it, and can better tolerate its accumulated quirks. Others may consider waiting for a sale, unless you want to support Console Archives from the outset, since the game is also available on Nintendo Switch Online.

Dollmare is a deliciously creepy game that executes simple gameplay in a thoroughly effective and unsettling way. The unnerving story combined with an absorbing routine makes for a fun, if brief, experience that delivers a lot for such a low price point.

Viewfinder provides a visually appealing, aurally relaxing environment in which to work through some very clever puzzles; the way you get from A to B is a really nifty twist. If you like the “wander around and figure things out” kind of puzzle game, I can give this one a hearty recommendation.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins offers thrilling action that looks great and performs wonderfully on the Switch 2. It’s likely the most intense musou combat Nintendo gamers have ever experienced. It’s also the most complex, and the management details will lessen the thrill for some players.

While the story isn’t needed, RANDOMAX is packed with fast-paced bullet hell action with short bursts of addictive gameplay.

Winter Burrow is easily one of the cutest survival games out right now, expertly combining the tension of enduring a harsh environment with a cosy sense of home. The art is adorable, the characters are wholesome and the story is well-written and moving.

Absolum is a strong roguelite with enough content to keep you busy for hours and fun characters to try out. If you’re a fan of beat ‘em up games with challenging bosses, then certainly pick this game up.

This isn’t the least pricey shmup option out there. But for the asking price, R Type Delta: HD Boosted delivers value for money. The game looks good, sounds good, and has replayability. If you like a shmup, go get this one.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond delivers on all counts with stunning visuals, an outstanding soundtrack, and solid exploration. While not everyone will agree, at face value this is a wonderfully constructed game that has been worth the wait. If you’re on the fence, do yourself a favor and jump into Samus’ latest adventure.

A solid, portable way to experience Hitman Absolution. It has a few flaws, but the motion controls, fair price, and upcoming Contracts Mode make the Switch port worth playing.

The gameplay of Dragon Ruins II is as simplified as its graphics, but don’t let that fool you; there is a lot of fun to be found in its gameplay loop. Genre fans may find they actually prefer Gravrobber Foundation’s old-school approach to dungeon crawling.

The tactical RPG Demonschool was certainly worth the wait after numerous delays on the Nintendo Switch. The game’s puzzle-based combat and comedic tones distinguish it from the retro influences it honors with a loving wink, and it never wears out its welcome.

Williams Pinball: Scared Stiff is a solid machine that makes a fun (although maybe overpriced) addition to your Pinball FX library. Its busy playing field exacerbates the dim lighting that Zen is now forcing us, but Elivra is the Mistress of the Dark, after all.

Elvira and the Party Monsters embraces its campy theme, with a bright and vivid presentation, backed up by an impressive audio package. This table offers plenty to keep you busy, with a range of scoring challenges. It’s arguable if it’s worth the launch price of $9.99. But if and when you pick this up, don’t be surprised if your thoughts line up with Elviras’ invitation, “How ’bout another ball”?

Who knows how much longer this version of Hyrule (that started in Breath of the Wild) will continue? If this is the end, it goes out on a high note, especially when enjoyed cooperatively. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is an entertaining entry that will keep you busy during the first holiday season of the Switch 2. Heck, packed with content and surprises, it’s one you’ll likely return to when the mood strikes as well.

Don’t overlook Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree. It offers the same frustrations common to soulslikes, but its visuals, soundtrack, and story comprise an experience that can and should be enjoyed by a much wider audience. (With help from its friendly difficulty options, mind you.)

Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch may get off to a slow start, but the level grinding as you build up proficiency does bring some pleasant rewards. It may not be quite perfect, and many of the themes are “tried and true”, but this is a solid entry in the roguelike RPG genre.

Overall, Ball X Pit is one of the most fun games I’ve played this year. The bouncing-ball mechanic is a game-changer. Couple the addictive gameplay with the upgradeable characters and light sim elements, and Ball X Pit is easy to recommend.

There’s no debating that the Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Edition is a great bundle of stellar games. But are there enough improvements and new content here to justify a full purchase so soon after the original releases? That’ll mostly depend upon how much you got out of them the first time (or on how antsy you are for the next Yumia adventure).

Strange Antiquities is a gorgeously designed game that uses a shop management setting to explore the compelling story of a community ravaged by occult monsters.

If you prioritize up-to-the-minute aesthetics, Pokémon Legends: Z-A — and arguably any title in the series — isn’t for you. Still, I can’t deny how much fun I’ve had playing this game. Its addictiveness triumphs over any minor issues. Real-time battles and entertaining side quests shine in Lumiose City. Launching at $70 with $30 of DLC might give some pause. But if you have a spouse or kids who will play this one too, the value is there, with dozens of hours of thoroughly satisfying adventuring. Don’t miss this release.

Roadwarden is a great, text-heavy, retro-RPG that rewards the player’s attention. Just give yourself a lot of patience with both the nuanced storytelling (great) and the limitations of the Nintendo Switch controls (irksome).

OFF is one of the most out-there titles I’ve played. It’s a creative game that’s sure to leave an impression. The turn-based battles are satisfying, the puzzles are some of the toughest and most creative I’ve seen in recent years, and the visual style stands out. If you’re a fan of quirky titles, this one is worth checking out.

Persona 3 Reload’s strengths are in its details. The game’s turn-based combat and social aspects should become repetitive, but they build effectively throughout. More importantly, the style, story, and characters are continually compelling, driving to a finish that will stick with you well after the game’s finished.

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy game, Tiny Bookshop is definitely one to check out. It’s slow-paced, but has wonderful visual aesthetics and easy-to-manage gameplay mechanics.

Rise Eterna 2 doesn’t correct the UI issues of the original, but its brisk approach to gameplay and storytelling makes for a compelling and fun turn-based adventure. Fans of classic Fire Emblem games will feel right at home, and—more importantly—will enjoy the strategic elements that make it unique.

In most respects, PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC is the definitive way to play the best-selling sequel. But a few of the level and boss alterations prove questionable at best (especially the latter), and the easy (immune) mode is a sizable step back from its more balanced predecessor. Bandai Namco would be wise to address both in an update asap. The game mostly makes up for these mistakes with its aesthetic and control improvements. Add time trial leaderboards, two-player co-op, and plenty of new and returning extras with some fun unlocakables, and you have an adventure that might keep you playing.

Puzzle Quest: Immortal Edition doesn’t do much to distinguish itself from the previous version it replaces in the eShop. If you have that, you’re fine. If you don’t, this is a surprisingly deep, highly addictive match-three RPG that’s well worth the price.

Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 are still out of this world. This pair of classic adventures remind us why we love Mario’s 3D outings in the first place. For existing fans, the temptation to replay in this enhanced form is strong. For new players, this is a must-own title.

Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus blends expert storytelling, interesting puzzles and finely crafted spooky pixel art to create a fantastic prequel game that leaves you wanting more of this insidious, addictive world.

Agatha Christie – Death on the Nile translates its ’70s setting into a fun audio-visual package. The mysterious characters (fully voiced) are well-developed, giving the game a page-turning quality. You’ll want to see them reach their conclusions, no matter the outcome. A few well-meaning but ultimately unfortunate choices knock the game down from great to just good, and I suspect this will fare less positively with Christie purists, given some of the liberties. But I think most players will get their money’s worth at $39.99, and the game’s replay value only sweetens the deal. The overall experience delivers an uneven, albeit high-quality, memorable mystery adventure.

Overall, Cronos: The New Dawn is an atmospheric horror outing with an interesting premise that creates a bleak feeling of isolation. It borders on frustrating at times with its high difficulty, but that’s also part and parcel of the genre. It may not convert anyone not already invested in these tough outings, but survival-horror fans are in for a treat.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World breathes new life into this fantastic platformer. Whether you enjoyed the original outing or missed it the first time around, do yourself a favor and check out this game.

Alphadia III is an update to a Japanese mobile game released in 2009. You won’t be tricked into thinking you’re playing something entirely new—and that’s a-okay. The two-year gap between the original and this follow-up is noticeable, with slight upticks to the visuals, some of the writing, and especially the addition of a six-member party. It’ll keep you invested even with customary looks, sounds, and routine gameplay. While not innovative, it delivers familiar fun with more pros than cons, particularly for series fans.

Overall, Time Flies is a unique adventure full of surprises. Don’t let the simple aesthetics and short runtime put you off; this is one of the most creative outings of the year.

You’ll surely enjoy Pinball FX – Williams Pinball Volume 9, though some may want to wait for a sale that matches the FX3 volume pricing. In either case, those with “crazy flipper fingers” can expect a good time.

Set aside your notions of how a modern RPG should look and play, and you’re going to have a great time with The Nameless: Slay Dragon. Its focus on the characters and story and how your decisions affect them compensates for its more basic approach to how its world is displayed and navigated.

The Bubsy games have become unpopular as time has passed, but his collection does its best to make them more playable than they’ve ever been. You can relive the nostalgia of the first two 16-bit games, roll your eyes at that Jaguar entry, and experience the refurbished version of Bubsy 3D that makes the original no longer relevant, all with modern updates and extras. I’m happy to see Atari and Limited Run compile these games and make them available on modern hardware, even if they fall short of their titular “Purrfect” designation. Subjectively, their individual appeal might be narrow (one’s trash is another treasure), and some might not be convinced to join Bubsy’s small fandom. But collectively, this release does plenty right, and those with appreciative mindsets will find value here. It’s better than the sum of its parts.

As someone with limited experience with games of this nature, Wild Hearts S has proved surprisingly addictive. Check out the demo if you’re curious, but I really believe it’ll be a game that grows on you. Even though I feel like there are certain respects where I’ve only scratched the surface (dozens of hours in, no less), the game is intuitive in the areas it needs to be. Such approachable depth that avoids the overwhelming trappings makes this game a winner and a keeper.

Overall, Herdling is a wonderful adventure. It’s a little rough around the edges in terms of framerates and hit detection, but it presents a unique outing that captures the loneliness of a child and the herd he inherits and protects. If you’re after a sweet journey set among lavish landscapes, this one is worth checking out.

As management sims go, Discounty has the perfect balance of job tasks to make the game challenging and downtime to keep the game relaxing and cozy. The style is adorable, your character is customizable, the dialogue is funny, and the story is entertaining.

Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo stands out with its papercraft-inspired art, looping time mechanic, and inventive quiz-style boss fights. Paired with heartfelt storytelling, it delivers a unique and emotional experience that’s definitely worth playing.

Shuten Order is so all over the place that its eShop listing doesn’t even provide a genre. But don’t take that as a lack of focus; this game knows what it wants to accomplish, and does so effectively. Players seeking a text-heavy adventure with uncomfortable choices to make are in for a wild (albeit occasionally overlong) time.

Overall, STORY OF SEASONS: Grand Bazaar is a faithful remake with great music and fun gameplay. This Nintendo Switch 2 Edition addresses stuttering seen on the original Switch when things are too busy on screen, and the framerate improvements make the game run much better and smoother. It’s like going from a DVD to Blu-ray, albeit at $10 more, as it’s priced at $59.99 on Switch 2. I’d still recommend this game (on either platform) to all STORY OF SEASONS fans, and highly recommend it to fans of Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar, as it is a well-done remake that carries the spirit of the original.

Is This Seat Taken? is a terrific little indie outing that will make you smile. The logic-based puzzles feature groups of fussy people who know what they want. It’s satisfying to help them find their place while following a sweet story about fitting in. Well done to the developers!

Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the most creative and fun titles. Ever. The smashing, music, co-op, upgrades. The smashing. This must-play Switch 2 title has set the bar for years to come. Do yourself a favor and play Donkey Kong Bananza as soon as possible.

Everdeep Aurora, a pixel art platformer from Ysbryd Games, has its faults. It also has enough charm and personality to overcome them. Striking visuals, fun gameplay, and an absolutely adorable cat make this a game that arcade adventure fans should definitely check out.

MotoGP 25 is a solid motorcycle racing sim that looks and plays well. It’s got everything an enthusiast needs, from real-life riders to customizable bikes. After some time with the game, I still prefer four-wheeled races, but I also have a new appreciation for these two-wheeled beasts.

Driving for weeks now, I can better sum up my feelings on Mario Kart World post-honeymoon. It’s a great game that looks (and sounds) as outstanding as it plays—speedy, sharp, and smooth on Switch 2. It’s well worth the extra Bundle cost! Still, as a standalone $79.99 game, it’s undeniably lacking compared to its predecessors’ original tracks, overall number of tracks, and other features and polish. Doubtless, some free DLC will add needed content and give some existing content a tune-up. Mario Kart World is a game you don’t want to miss, one that crosses the finish line with its head held high.

Tomb Raider fans will appreciate the effort here in terms of faithfulness to the classic games, with both clear and subtle nods. Like Pinball FX as a whole, I’d hesitate to recommend this on the Nintendo Switch. But if you have a Switch 2, you’ll appreciate both of these pinball tables for different reasons.

No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES is a wonderfully effective mashup of puzzle-based gaming styles held together by fun characters and a chaotic story. A knowledge of the series is useful, but this entry served as my introduction, and I still had a blast.

Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden is the type of game that would’ve kept my friends and I entertained late into a 1980s Saturday night. Familiar arcade gameplay is supplemented by modern tower defense strategies and upgrades, providing more longevity than first expected.

Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition does something very right with the series. It features the classic action we know and love and introduces an RPG-like story mode. It looks great, plays well, and even has a happy feel to it. When did fighting become to much fun? Ready? Fight!

Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition is still a game that will push strategy fans to (and beyond) their limits. You’ll spend more time learning than playing. But the Joy-Con mouse functionality in this Switch 2-only release removes a major obstacle to the long-serving rewards awaiting those able to stick with it.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour probably should have been a pack-in release; not because it’s not worth the money, but because it’s turned into a PR nightmare. It also feels like the perfect game to include with a new system. At the end of the day, it wasn’t included; but it IS fun and interesting. So, if you like the sound of it, give it a go! If not, leave it alone. Someone at Nintendo worked hard to put this together, and I, for one, am glad I was able to experience it.

This 15-year-old game has aged well, with new cutscenes and other enhancements contributing to an epic, movie-like quality to the action. This prequel makes the perfect first entry for the Switch 2.

The roguelike, deck-based dungeon builder Into the Restless Ruins may not be a big budget spectacle, but strategy game fans will find it a solid addition to their game library.

HITMAN World of Assassination – Signature Edition is perhaps thus named because it literally requires your signature to play. Once you’re past that and a few other technical and online issues, however, you’ll get a ton of content with countless ways to work through it. Make room for the 60GB install file, because you’ll want to keep this game around for a very long time.

If you’re looking for a game to highlight how different the Switch 2 experience can be, look no further than Kunitsu-Gamin: Path of the Goddess. The unique combination of action and tower-defense strategy—enhanced by the stunning graphics and art direction—make this a game you’ll use to show off your new system.

Techno Banter manages to balance surreal twists and turns through a gritty nightlife scene with characters that feel grounded and believable. The story is concise and well written, set against a finely constructed backdrop of trippy art, a thumping soundtrack, and quick wit.

Hidden Cat Outlaws is a clever hidden objects game with quirky music, lovely hand-drawn art, and enough of a challenge to keep you playing.

Overall, Not Not 2 – A Brain Challenge is exactly what it says on the box. It tickles the brain in a fun, interesting, and challenging way. With over 100 levels to master, daily and weekly challenges, and unlockables, this is a fun title with plenty of longevity.

1f y0u’re a gh0st ca11 me here! is one of the more unique games I’ve played on the Nintendo Switch. It does get repetitive after a while, but the striking visuals, compelling story, and frantic “call center” gameplay will be enough to get most new gr1ms through the workday.

A narratively disconnected relationship makes Old Skies stumble badly at the end. But that aside, this polished release is generally great. I’d love to see a sequel that explores more of ChronoZen and its staff while jettisoning the romantic fluff to a side-story spinoff visual novel. The best way to make that happen is to check this title out. Old Skies starts brilliantly and maintains its grip with fun individual stories and an overall sci-fi plot that keeps ticking in mostly thoughtful ways.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma’s greatest accomplishment is its ability to pile so many gameplay elements into one big adventure, and to make all of them feel integral and organic. Whether you’re farming, fighting, exploring, or romancing, every task—like the game itself—feels like it’s worth completing.

Point-and-click adventure fans may be surprised by the more depressing tone of Leila, but the art style, emotional story, and challenging puzzles will carry them through. The game’s themes can feel heavy, but leave the player with a sense of hope.

Please, Touch the Artwork 2 is delightful. Its beautiful paintings, quirky characters, and lovely music combine to create a playful outing that provides a true form of escape. This short but sweet outing will stick with you after the credits roll.

Mirage Ignis Fatuus is a clever little puzzle outing. The story and graphics go a long way to making this stand out. Some extra incentive to replay, however, or a hint system to help with the more frustrating situations, would be a welcome addition.