While Keep Driving has its flaws, I can’t deny how addicted I was to the game overall. With short playthroughs that clock anywhere between an hour or two, I became obsessed with obtaining all of the endings, trying different hitchhiker skills, and just enjoying the ride through pixilated backgrounds with my Swedish indie pop in the CD player. While the game’s story is minimal, it’s a point in its favour as it allows the player to create their own road trip adventure. Even though elements struggle — the writing needs another editing pass and the awkward UI made for some sticky situations — there is a lot to love that kept me coming back for more.

Rift of the Necrodancer continues finding ways to integrate amazing music into fun gameplay that creates a lovely blend of art and artist interaction that is just a joy to experience. It can be difficult to find a perfect spot of tempo matching hand dexterity for some, but each song ages beautifully as practice matches zip by, with incremental mastering. There’s challenge every step of the way as mini-games and boss battles throw in some curveballs along with the rifts. As a result getting lost in a soundtrack has never felt more fun, challenging, and rewarding then it does here with these well composed tunes leading the way.

Citizen Sleeper 2 is a timely story about hope in the face of collapse and how the inevitability of endings can’t negate nobility, sacrifice, or human connections. Although it doesn’t offer as much narrative freedom as suggested by its expansive maps, the strength and depth of its stories more than recommend a play. It’s dark in space, but the points of light we find and nourish can guide us.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins is a very welcome return for the series. Omega Force has done a fine job learning from its previous collaborations to help inject a fresh feeling into the game, while retaining the strengths that have given it such success in the past. Both newcomers and returning fans are very well catered for with this latest hack-and-slash enterprise.

Fantasian Neo Dimension is a tale of two halves. Its first half feels like an homage to the older parts of the legendary catalogue of its creators. The second half, meanwhile, feels like that homage got to flex its muscles and pummel players into submission as they endeavor against boss fights until the adventure reaches its conclusion. Those able to adapt to the shifting changes between halves will find a love letter to turn-based RPGs that could only come from lifelong experts. The pacing shifts cause a juxtaposition between a restrictive feeling start and thematically minimal end, which just goes to show that even experts can find ways to grow in a given field. Where passion, creativity, and talent co-exist in such a lovely harmony always means there’s new avenues to explore and this wonderful game is worth undertaking the journey.

While the Darksiders II Deathinitive Edition has plenty of positives in its column, this is primarily due to the original release already representing an impressive effort that is largely unchanged here. Frenetic combat and acrobatic exploration are still satisfying, with some optional collectible-hunting and a handful of other sidequests. The game’s lengthy dungeons and impressive graphics and audio have all been well-preserved, and the inclusion of all three DLC spells even more value for money. As positive as that sounds, there’s also a distinct sense of the game resting on its laurels. There’s a dearth of new features, from quality-of-life options to performance improvements — it’s worth noting that the game crashed a few times during the review playthrough. It seems there just wasn’t a whole lot of tinkering under the hood. Even story recaps, soundtrack samples, or cinematic galleries would have been welcome, but are all conspicuously absent, making for a barebones-effort remaster of an otherwise exciting game.

The game has bit of a slow start, but despite this, I thought the pacing was mostly good, especially compared to Mario & Luigi: Dream Team. Despite a few other issues like the frame rate and some mild frustration with muscle memory, Brothership is one of the better games in the series. It’s fun, it’s engaging, it’s creative, and it’s even full of heart. It may not be as laugh-out-loud funny as prior games, but for the first time, this game went for an overarching theme and a good but basic message of bonds and connections. It certainly warmed my heart. If Acquire were to continue developing Mario & Luigi games, I’d say it’s in good hands.

River City Girls 2 is mostly a refinement of the first game, and there’s honestly nothing wrong with that. While there are new characters and stories to enjoy, the core combat and gameplay remain relatively identical. However, some of the quest glitches and the game’s high price point hurt it at launch, making it a tough sell to purchase at full price for what amounts to a ten-hour experience. Even so, River City Girls 2 is a fun game to knock out over a weekend, especially with a good friend, and I hope Wayforward Technologies considers giving Misako, Kyoko, and friends another whacky adventure in the future.

HeistGeist is deserving of more attention. Those looking for an engaging title to get sucked into for a dozen or so hours will do very well to check it out. It’s not a particularly deep title; a lot of the choices feel like they have very little impact and there’s not a huge amount of ways for players to properly customise their deck, but there’s also a powerful argument that increasing the scope could very easily have caused more problems than benefits and diluted where the game does stand out. However, the tight implementation and focus on the narrative works in HeistGeist’s favour, and its storytelling and gameplay do more than enough to make me interested should Alex ever return for more.

Despite the issues, River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next will appeal to and satisfy the right people. Its chaotic take on The Romance of Three Kingdoms offers some good amusement as its larger-than-life cast threatens to push it off the rails, and there is some small satisfaction in being able to just blow away all comers at times. However, those looking for some more finely-tuned combat and challenge, or any real in-depth gameplay, will need to search elsewhere.

Overall, Sekiro is defined by its riveting, challenging, and ultimately highly rewarding gameplay. Stemming from simplicity but giving a wide variety of different combat options, few games come close to matching the exhilarating rush that Sekiro’s best moments provide. Exploring its atmospherically engrossing levels is a treat, from a visual, musical, and atmospheric standpoint. Even if exploration and character storylines are sometimes hampered by Dragonrot, repeatedly severing the immortality of bosses with brutal “Shinobi Executions” and discovering the ritual secrets of eternal life offers a captivating experience that stands out as one of FromSoftware’s best and most distinctive titles.

Fairy Tail 2 has a core problem that it fails to solve. Its identity as an adaptation pits it up against both the original manga and the anime, which concluded far before this game’s release, putting the onus on the game to do something to provide an extra spark. While the gameplay systems are solid, they aren’t enough of a positive to overcome that fans would likely receive a more complete narrative elsewhere. Add to that the game’s technical issues, and Fairy Tail 2 ends up being hard to recommend.

VED is a very ambitious title. It takes a lot of hand-drawn intricacies and combines them with strong, thought-provoking character building and interesting storytelling. The first playthrough is rather quick at around six hours and subsequent ones finding new information are even quicker. The lower caliber of its voice acting and lack of depth to combat prevent it from becoming a full indie darling, but seeing how industrial and magical ideologies mix with the lawful and chaotic mindset in a fun fantasy world is consistently exciting. The game will do well with those who appreciate its visual novel tendencies, and the gameplay holds up well enough overall to encourage others to explore the mysteries of Micropolis.

While not all the game’s references have aged well, I applaud Shadow Layer Games for bringing Breath of Death VII: The Beginning back into the RPG universe, adding a needed polish to the original and allowing newcomers to experience the game that launched Zeboyd Games into becoming the indie darlings that our community fell in love with.

Overall, Flowstone Saga is a game that isn’t quite like any other, mainly due to its unique gameplay trappings. The infusion of a Tetris system is a natural fit and even lends itself well to the non-combat parts of the game. Despite being a good match on paper, the system’s robustness is directly proportional to the player’s tolerance for Tetris, with plentiful combat encounters that will wear thin for some in the long run. However, the game’s other elements more than make up for any shortcomings here, with beautiful visuals, a jumping soundtrack, and a lengthy and well-written story full of characters that are a joy to get to know over the course of 20 or so hours. It’s a package worth experiencing, with lots to love and enjoy.

Bloomtown: A Different Story combines familiar aspects of popular Stranger Things and Persona franchises and twists them to create something different. The narrative does a solid job of blending horror and comedy with colourful visuals and catchy music. However, the gameplay loop just doesn’t quite have the tightness to make things properly tick. Demon fusing, bonding, and time limits are at times refreshingly straightforward, yet also frustrating in their lack of depth. There’s definitely something to be gained from taking a hike in and around Bloomtown, though its quirks prevent it from being a must stay locale.

Enotria: The Last Song is a very promising debut from a new development studio, and an impressive benchmark to compare future releases to. In a crowded Soulslike market, Enotria distinguishes itself with its unique setting and impressive production values. Combat is satisfying, despite carrying the baggage of a few too many systems with it, most of which can however be safely placed on the backburner. The real star of the show, however, is the level design, which creates a series of showstopper moments that permeate the game’s full runtime and never let a dull moment arise. With its optional story mode, the game offers something for every type of skill level, becoming an easy recommendation for players of all types looking to get into the genre.

Everything is well planned, balanced, and executed, making it a game that has gained the recognition of fans and the media. There is a novelty in how the mechanics are implemented. Metaphor: ReFantazio is an amazing title and a strong contender for this year’s awards. Time will tell how iconic the game will be, but it will undoubtedly please Persona fans, hardcore RPGamers, and casual players alike.

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a delightful reworking of a 16-bit era game, bringing it to a modern generation while keeping true to the art of the original. The challenging combat and depth of the original are completely intact, with new features and many modern niceties to make things less obtuse without hurting challenge or depth. Game progression is wide open, encouraging a wonderful sense of exploration and experimentation. A variety of options allow players to make the game easier and harder as they prefer. This is easily the best game the SaGa series has produced thus far, and an experience any JRPG fan should not miss.

For a game that I’ve played a half-dozen or more times over on almost equally as many systems, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake definitely feels like the version I’d most recommend. It’s a beautiful remake of one the oldest JRPG classics, one that holds up to this day as an amazing game. The visual flourishes make everything a more fulfilling adventure to take part in, with something exciting to experience around the corner for newcomer and series veteran alike. Seeing all the game has to offer this old fan, I’m even more excited to see what changes are in store for the first two games in the series when they get their HD-2D Remake next year.

Metal Slug Tactics is a title built on discovery and then repetition. Running and gunning in a tactical sense is evoked wonderfully in the presentation found here. Unfortunately, the short gameplay loop brings things down as limited boss variety and minimal incentive to try something new means that this presentation gets lost in the monotony. A bit more variety or difficulty in recreating overpowered party members would lead to something great here. What is here makes for a worthy addition to the Metal Slug franchise, that luckily does not need quarters to play through time-after-time.

It should be said that for all of the criticism to be made about Dragon Age: The Veilguard, there’s nothing it outright does poorly. It is absolutely lots of fun in the moment, and the cast is worthy of note. However, when all is said and done, there’s little that sticks in the memory. Combat is heavily diluted by a lack of variation and strategy in its encounters, while the locations have little that draws them to life outside of their general premise. The quest to emulate Mass Effect 2 is all well and good, but there’s very little that The Veilguard does that it makes its own. The game will certainly garner plenty of highly satisfied fans, but in a time of much greater competition it’s far from a must-play recommendation.

Overall, Black Myth: Wukong is a good game. Developer Game Science delivered on its promise of high-quality graphics, though some of its greatness was lost on the PlayStation 5. The action gameplay is entertaining and easy to learn, but despite its clever attempts to innovate, it still feels repetitive after dozens of hours. Crafty players can alternate builds to modulate and refresh their battle experience, but it’s only a temporary solution.

For a game that takes under ten hours to beat, Necro Story provides some entertaining moments while respecting the time of its players; it’s paced well for the scope of the game and the story it’s telling. The battle system and second-half humor are definite highlights and made me glad that I gave the game a try. However, a pretty bland first half, a bevy of little bugs, and a conclusion that is more likely than not going to end badly hold the game back from being a whole-hearted recommendation.

There’s a lot packed into Ys X: Nordics, making for a thrilling ride. Quick-paced features make sure something exciting is always happening during gameplay, but the cast is given an appreciated chance to breathe and stand out in their own way. Combat gives players many different ways to tackle enemies, with the vast array of skills available making every fight enjoyable. The action choreography during boss fights is breathtaking, making it easy to get fully wrapped up in the battle. Ys has always been about adventure and this injection of added character work just adds a new layer of finesse to this grand stage.

It is often said that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. This seems to have been Inti Creates’ modus operandi for the better part of the last decade, and Card-en-Ciel is no exception. While a card-battling, rogue-lite RPG in the style of Mega Man Battle Network is not a wholly original idea, this game’s spin on the concept brings more than enough originality in its mechanics to stand on its own. Couple that with an impressive level of polish and stellar presentation, and it’s easy to recommend Card-en-Ciel to anybody.

Unfortunately, it’s very hard to find reasons to recommend Reynatis. The story has some intriguing elements that provide curiosity about where it’s going to go next, while there are some interesting gameplay ideas and the music is decent. However, the game’s execution across the board undercuts all of these. The stronger parts just don’t have what is necessary to make Reynatis much more than a curious disappointment.

Keylocker has a lot of things going for it, and is a genuinely good experience with the right expectations. The narrative is lacking polish, but inside it are some genuinely exciting and interesting moments. The gameplay is in a similar state, but when the combat is good it’s really good and offers a satisfying take on traditional turn-based combat. Keylocker hits the wrong note a few times, but boy is there a lot to like in its performance.

All in all, it’s hard to imagine many players will get a lot out of Bleak Faith: Forsaken. It successfully pushes to the forefront an alien and otherworldly experience which is indeed as bleak as its name implies, but this alone does not an enjoyable time make. With large-scale issues embedded within its narrative structure, progression, exploration, and combat, the cons easily outweigh the pros. There are reasons to praise the design team’s overall effort — particularly given the game’s scope and the extreme limitations they had to cope with — but beyond an academic appreciation, Bleak Faith simply isn’t a fun game to play. With no shortage of far superior similar titles available on the market, this one may be relegated to go down as a hopeful starting point for its creators, but not one that will stand tall on its own merits.

Beyond Galaxyland is a welcome addition to the RPG cosmos. Its audiovisual mixture is both distinctive and effective, while the gameplay and narrative keeps everything moving along nicely. The combat may get a bit rote towards the end, and there are some frustratingly unanswered story questions when all is said and done, but there’s no denying it’s a positive experience all the way through. It’s a game that’s easy to recommend in general, but for those whom a speedily-paced RPG that offers enjoyable exploration, some engaging sci-fi mystery, and a solid turn-based system sounds appealling, Beyond Galaxyland should be right up their alley.

Fairy Tail: Dungeons is no Slay the Spire, but in some ways that’s a good thing. It provides an easier to grasp experience that provides a fun dungeon romp for fans and non fans alike. It has enough variety in the form of a good roster of playable characters and other secrets to unlock, but does lack the depth to make the game the kind of long-running obsession other roguelikes have become. The story adds nothing to the long running lore of Fairy Tail, but provides enough fun character interactions to make it worth it for fans. Even non-fans looking for a pixel-art infused card battler will find a fun game to enjoy here.

While not without its weaknesses, Arco is thoroughly welcome addition to this year’s slate of releases. The game’s setting does a fine job bringing in an underutilised inspiration and putting its own stamp on it, while the gameplay offers something refreshingly different. As an enjoyably condensed package, it’s well worth the time.

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is an overall improvement over the already solid original release. Those who played the 2021 release will find every feature improved, and with the delightful additions, it is the best way to experience Shin Megami Tensei V. The numerous quality-of-life improvements implemented also serve to make this title a fine entry point to those jumping into the franchise, while still providing enough challenge for those who seek it. Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is the polished result of an already great RPG endowed with an epic tale and well-rounded gameplay.

Visions of Mana is a strong entry that effectively revitalizes the lore of the series and keeps it more alive than ever. With dancing merchants, the ring system, and cute creatures such as Sproutlings, the game includes many staples of the series at their best, with Elemental Vessels being a magnificent addition. The patience of long-time fans is paid in full, while the game will also captivate newcomers with its superb presentation and emotive story.

Elemental Exiles tries to put a spin on the traditional deckbuilder. It is somewhat novel to see an identical map in use for each playthrough, as it makes the easiest routes more obvious. The biggest additions are the durability system and how elemental damage affects shielding. Despite being simple, these ideas create a whole new way of deckbuilding to dig into. However, there’s minimal story, encounters repeat after a few quick runs, and there’s nothing enticing about the presentation. This leads to a pedestrian execution of an otherwise solid concept. It is enjoyable in short bursts due to the variety, but the interest quickly drops off when things start to repeat.

From beginning to end, Stellar Blade remains consistently wonderful from a presentation perspective, uneven but perfectly well from a gameplay perspective, and lifeless and poorly executed from a narrative perspective. Stellar Blade consistently shines in many areas, but any recommendation must come with a heave “your mileage may vary.”

SteamWorld Heist II is a swashbuckling tale that always points its compass towards something fun. There’s a refreshing amount of freedom to how players can enjoy the title from its adjustable difficulty to the twist of naval combat. A little more work could be done with the character’s personalities, but they all get moments to shine and with lovely visual designs as well as adorable vocal ticks they’ll find a way to enter player’s hearts all the same. The wonderfully catchy music always brings a smile with lots sights and small things that make the world delightful. SteamWorld Heist II is beaming with sunshine that readily lights up anyone’s day.

#BLUD is not a long game, hustling its way through ten to fifteen hours of fun-filled narrative and crazy character interactions. Becky has to navigate the tropes of both high school life and comedic vampire horror, with a heavy dash of modern internet meme culture to add commentary and color. The writing is witty and tight, and the game does a good balance of presentation across its eleven chapters. So between the plot, the side quests, and the hunt for optional fun bits like selfies and collectibles, it never feels like time is wasted.

Despite these technical flaws, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate stands out amongst the sea of TMNT games. Sure, it might at times seem like a Turtles-skinned Hades clone, but the roguelike aspect gels quite well with the franchise. The game doesn’t reinvent things, and its appeal may be limited to fans of the series or roguelikes. Yet for those who are drawn to the gameplay loop, there is an addictive experience here. The turtles might be stuck in a time loop, but Splintered Fate’s smooth combat, availability of multiple playstyles, and snappy presentation make sure it’s an entertaining, if somewhat bumpy, ride.

Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is an enjoyable experience, but may struggle to stick in the memory. There are some interesting ideas at play, but the execution just always leaves a little bit to be desired. While it never perhaps hits the same heights as other titles, it maintains a solid baseline that successfully holds interest for its playtime.

In the end, Dawntrail does the job it needed to do by giving players the new adventure they need to get going once again. It takes a little while to get there, but when the payoff comes it shows how the narrative team behind Final Fantasy XIV is at hitting the emotional highs. The dungeons, boss fights, and location designs further demonstrate the team’s impressive ability to keep injecting fresh mechanics and sights to a fully matured title. It may ultimately be regarded as an expansion that keeps the game rolling rather than bringing it to a new level, but Dawntrail is a worthy continuation of Final Fantasy XIV’s line.

There’s a good premise locked behind bad execution in Fate Seeker II. There’s plenty to explore and everything is connected to something. The detective work is meticulous and the awful translation makes reading for any amount of time a headache. Combat is sprinkled in as a highlight, but when most of the game is dialogue heavy, it is not enough. The poor presentation magnifies every weakness so avoid this headache at all costs.

It’s impossible to miss the overall sense of fun that permeates every aspect of Echo Generation. From its coming-of-age concept to its silly, sometimes irreverent narrative turns, to its memorable presentation, it’s clear this is a pure passion project for its developers. The narrative may not be the hardest-hitting stuff, and combat eventually becomes more of a chore than its payoff is worth due to spongy late-game enemies. But anybody who enjoys a sci-fi yarn that blends Stand by Me with The X-Files, or grew up in the ’90s, will still find plenty to enjoy here.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I booted up Sand Land, but I was surprised by my experience. While I had no familiarity with the property, I found myself loving the quirky characters, the charming narrative, and the wide world to explore. On the other hand, the combat and the game’s side content leave a lot to be desired. At no point is Sand Land a bad game, it’s a quick, charming romp full of humour, but definitely has room to improve should a sequel be made.

Capcom has definitely found its footing in terms of creating a kid-friendly Monster Hunter spinoff series, as Monster Hunter Stories 2 has a lot to offer for newcomers and veterans of the series alike. While the battle system is fantastic for a younger audience, it does lack depth and can feel like quite the slog, especially late game. While the story won’t wow anyone, it is sincere in its approach that it’s hard to be disappointed in it. Monster Hunter Stories 2 is great for monster-taming fans, and those who don’t mind a slow-paced game in a gorgeous and inviting world.

The addition of extra layers and modernity to a classic old-school dungeon crawler makes Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord‘s remake an enjoyable accomplishment. The gameplay is still punishing, but it’s more manageable with added layers of strategic planning to make bad luck easier to swallow, while the presentation’s overhaul adds enough to make everything feel exciting to be a part of. The biggest detriment is that it is perhaps too faithful to the original as the punishing difficulty is sure to turn some away even as it brings turn-based thrill-seekers ever closer to see just how hard these games can really be. So, with that in mind, there’s still a lot to enjoy in this faithful remake of a true classic.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak is an incredibly satisfying combination of familiarity and freshness in a rightfully much-loved series. There was a danger of things becoming stale, but Nihon Falcom has done its utmost to ensure its new main cast and setting are joined by enough adjustments to the series’ other elements to make the game appealing to loyal fans and newcomers alike. Van Arkride steps up as perhaps the series’ most entertaining protagonist so far, and with the strong backing of his supporting cast and new mechanics, the series has taken a hugely welcome step forward.

The stars never fully aligned for Dread Delusion but it’s still an admirable effort. The world is intriguing, the dialogue surprisingly funny, and the sights something to behold. It’s also an adventurers dream, as the best parts of the game are seeing something new and bee-lining for it only to stumble across something else in the process. The game may end up a little too soft and mushy to wholly come together, but its ease can allow for a wider audience to come check out just how zany everything else is.

The remaster of Monster Hunter Stories brings what was already a great turn-based RPG to even more RPGamers, inviting newcomers to dive into the series. Its big, colorful world is worth exploring. Monster Hunter Stories may be a spin-off but it is an adorable game that will please both fans of the franchise and fans of RPGs.

Capes starts off with an interesting superhero premise of a dystopian city that is controlled by the villains. At the start, the gameplay can be rewarding and engaging, while the characters are well voice-acted, and the game has some nice tactical gameplay until the mid-game. However, things don’t manage to carry through and the latter parts of the game leave much to be desired. Those looking for a new superhero strategy game will get some enjoyment out of Capes, but could easily find themselves hoping there was more to it.

At the end of the day, SaGa Emerald Beyond takes what worked in its predecessor and improves upon it, while bringing in touches of classic SaGa at the same time. The story provides a fun if surface-level romp through a variety of worlds. With many different main characters to choose from, there’s also a wealth of replayability. With one of the best and most engaging battle systems out there, even the most seasoned RPGamers will find their skills tested. SaGa Emerald Beyond is easily one of the best and most accessible SaGa games in series history.

Another Crab’s Treasure doesn’t reinvent the Soulslike wheel by any means. Rather than adding its own twists to the well-established formula, it instead doubles down on what has already been established, adopting a parry-heavy combat formula and pairing it with tried-and-true environmental exploration. It does, however, establish some unique ideas. Not only does the shell system tie in well with the game’s unique aquatic setting, but it also adds a good amount of flexibility for players to overcome obstacles. Allowing players to tweak many of the settings inherent to the genre further makes its otherwise fairly challenging campaign accessible to gamers of all skill levels. Coupled with a charming presentation and cast of characters, this could very well be the game that will bring new RPGamers into the Soulslike fold, making it a game that is well worthy of checking out for anyone with even a passing interest in the genre.

Astor: Blade of the Monolith feels like a game that needed a few more months to cook. The gameplay is underdeveloped, there are multiple bugs, and and the plot really could’ve done with some punching up. While this adventure has potential for improvement, but it’s very difficult to find reasons to recommend it in its current state.

Dream Tactics makes decent use of its pixel graphics. It never tries to do too much with them, but the colours and design keeps things appealling and feels at home with the game’s general sense of humour. Much the same can largely be said of the music, while not being especially memorable after the fact, it provides an enjoyable backing to the exploration and combat that keeps up engagement. While it might not be a title that especially stands out in any singular aspect, Dream Tactics is nonetheless a highly enjoyable romp. An appreciably speedy yet deep combat system combines with some entertaining character interactions and a fun gameplay loop. All of its parts work nicely in tandem and many players will find the game to be a fine way to unwind.

On one hand, I am happy I finally got the chance to play System Shock, but the experience I had was mixed overall. While the storytelling, world-building, and environments were interesting and engaging, its gunplay, awkward UI, and unbalanced difficulty make the game hard to recommend outside of those who have already experienced it before. This remake retains a lot of old-school design choices but dresses them up in a new 3D outer shell, meaning it’s still the same game from 1994, for better or worse. Those who love challenging gameplay and don’t mind some stiff gunplay will find a lot to like here, but for first-timers, this game is not newcomer-friendly, and you’re better off tracking down a copy of Prey or BioShock which do a better job of being more inviting story-driven shooter experiences.

Playing through Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes was an addictive and wonderful experience. When I stopped playing, I was constantly thinking about the characters, story, and the world-building that Rabbit & Bear has created. The game is very much a love letter to JRPG and Suikoden fans, and while there are a lot of similarities, I personally didn’t find that detracting. After putting more than fifty hours into the game, it reminded me of both the joy of being in one of Murayama’s worlds, and the sadness that he will never pen another game in this series. While there are elements of the game that needed more time in the oven, I cannot deny the happiness I felt every time I booted up the game.

Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince offers a compelling return for the monster-collecting subseries. Deep monster mechanics, innovative fusion system, and engaging exploration with a seasonal twist offer a wealth of content for both newcomers and veterans alike. While the narrative slightly stumbles in its execution and the post-game content feels somewhat shallow, the core gameplay loop is undeniably fun and provides immense satisfaction for monster collectors. The Dark Prince serves as a welcome celebration of the Dragon Quest Monsters series’ 25th anniversary and is a strong recommendation for fans of the monster-collecting genre and any Dragon Quest fans.

Withering Rooms tells an unhinged story of various descents into insanity. Nightingale Williams is an interesting focal point for these crazed inhabitants that all dwell inside an ancient idol’s dream world. This great hook is partnered with a robust roguelite inventory to make things a harrowing survival with every step. Mostyn House is not for the faint of heart, those braving the corridors of this nightmare will find a fun yet disturbing time, just be prepared to swap between difficulties in some situations.

Unicorn Overlord is a masterfully crafted video game. The player is given as much or as little to do as they wish, with every new nation, stage, backstory, and time-engrossing side venture all weaving into one another in a way that never feels forced. All of this is actualized with music and visuals to consistently dazzle and delight as the world is delved into deeper. This pacing is crafted with incredible flexibility such that one player may spend minutes doing something another will spend hours on and both finding their time well spent. Combat is a constantly shifting bout of delightful visuals as tactical options and classes keep things enticing. It takes a special title to reach all gaming sensibilities and Unicorn Overlord does so with such style and flair that everyone should test it for themselves.

The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered fails to live up to its promise of delivering a captivating dungeon-crawling experience. With its lackluster narrative, uninspired combat, and flawed progression systems, the game struggles to hold the attention of players and ultimately falls short of expectations. While the nostalgia may appeal to some fans of the original release, newcomers are likely to find little to redeem this lackluster remaster. As players journey through the world of Avalon, they’ll find themselves longing for a more fulfilling adventure, leaving The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered to fade into obscurity.

Despite some gripes, Born of Bread feels like a team of creative and talented designers were given free rein to design a world the way they wanted, even infusing it with genuinely hilarious comedic writing throughout. However, the limitations enacted by the combat system upon itself, i.e. being beholden to ally and enemy affinities without any way of adjusting them to fit the situation at hand, actively hamstring the game’s positive aspects. The QTE-style attacks make the whole thing a needlessly repetitive chore that undermines the joy found in the game’s world design and writing. Those with a love for all things Paper Mario surely won’t mind it, but everyone else will want to go into the experience prepared for what’s to come.

Persona 3 Reload is the best edition of the game and DLC promises to bring some additional content that was featured in other iterations of the game. The story has been preserved while the gameplay has been renewed and enhanced. Persona 3 Reload is closer to being the next mainline entry than simply a remake, making it a must-play game for all RPG fans.

Pixel Noir is a wonderful concept that I felt so much excitement towards. What the game gets right, it does incredibly well, but what the game gets wrong falls flat on its face. The game is clearly a labour of love by SWDTech and that is apparent in all facets of the gameplay, story, and presentation. Unfortunately, the game is so riddled with game-breaking bugs that it can’t be recommended in its current state.

There’s a lot of little pieces that work in Blade Prince Academy, mostly on the combat side. Characters have snappy designs, but the fast-forward plot makes their personalities feel stilted. The game is ultimately a passable, but not fully realized, experience with the novel gameplay the only element that stands out. It is likely worth a look for those with whom the style resonates, just be prepared for fast thinking or copious use of the pause button.

There’s a lot to appreciate about The Thaumaturge and that’s the stuff that will stick around. The weaknesses in the combat prevent some cool ideas from ever fully taking off. The rushed ending, whether the result of running out of time during development or an awkward playthrough, means the plot trips at the finishing line. But the uniqueness of the setting goes a long way toward making the game an interesting sell and the characters are fun to spend time with. So while far from perfect, there’s enough care in this project to make it a worthwhile visit.

All in all, Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island provides a thoroughly enjoyable and constantly engaging adventure. It updates the presentation and online features of the series, while stubbornly sticking to the tried and true mechanics that have worked since the SNES era. The challenge can be quite high, but the game will constantly unlock new tools along with a wealth of information, making it feel like the game is rooting for the player to succeed without compromising on the game’s structure. It may not have the wow factor to recruit legions of new fans to the series, but for anyone not afraid to explore its depths, a massive and fun adventure awaits.

It’s been twenty-seven years since Cloud, Aerith, and Tifa first left Midgar. Since then, their world — and ours — has changed significantly. It’s such a wonder, then, to be able to recreate that sublime experience of leaving Midgar for the first time during the opening of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. This is the game that delivers on the promise of the Final Fantasy VII remake project. It’s a fascinatingly familiar yet unknown journey that is breathtaking and unforgettable.

Banishers is not quite the unqualified win I wanted it to be, but it’s easy to appreciate on its merits. While the combat overstays its welcome and the exploration leaves a lot to be desired, there’s enough here to like for those who like strong narratives with great characters. For all its faults, the game is entirely confident in what it’s attempting to do. What’s more, with the foundation laid there’s plenty of potential for its faults to be addressed in future works. And it will be interesting to see what this team does next.

There’s a lot of love in the story presentation of Warhammer 40,000 Rogue Trader. It is a blast to see how dark and depraved the world can get and how each of the companions build their journey. There’s just a ton to do, with an exhausting 100+ hour experience made longer with glitches and ridiculous loading times. These issues are constantly undercutting the core experience and making even the joyous parts feel like a chore. Maybe there’s a day where the chores are only a distant memory. That time isn’t now though.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink doesn’t offer anything complex, the storytelling is simplistic and combat doesn’t have a ton of depth, but it delivers it all excellently. The presentation is high quality with gorgeous cutscenes, epic battles, easy to pick up combat, and vivid storytelling. There’s nothing that ever knocks the wind out of its sails and always looks ahead to the vast blue skies, wondering what other stories there are to find.

Although it might be hard for Atlas Wept to stand out among the flood of games currently available, it offers strong bang for its buck. The dozen-hour playtime is perfectly judged and fits in nicely with the depth of gameplay and breadth of its story. It’s a worthwhile experience, offering a touching tale that examines humanity with a vital spark of hope at the end.

After sinking over fifty hours into Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth to get to the story’s end, the game is an easy recommendation. The story is over-the-top bananas in the best way possible, and the twists and turns are definitely gasp-worthy. The fresh faces do a great job cementing themselves as new favourites, and the addition of Hawaii makes for a great setting change. While there is some recycling of assets and the collision issues are still present, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is addictive, campy, and a game to easily lose oneself in.

Crymachina is continually plagued by its imbalance. The emotion can be impactful, especially with the relationships forged between the characters, but it is bogged down by a convoluted story. Combat is snappy and fast, but slowed down by an excessive upgrade system and grueling grind. Lighting and effects are gorgeous and colorful, while areas remain repetitive and bland. It takes too much work to get to the good of Crymachina and only those desperately itching for a sci-fi action RPG will enjoy completing it. It’s a shame because the concept it uses to explore humanity is an interesting one, but too many issues dampen its emotional punch.

I wish that I could call Atlas Fallen an overlooked gem from an overstuffed year of games, but it doesn’t quite reach that bar. It’s not an unsalvageable project and with some refinement in the gameplay, a stronger script, and some better performances this could be a solid action RPG. I didn’t even have a chance to try out the game’s co-op, which could potentially go some ways to opening up the game’s RPG elements. That doesn’t change that what is there is a fine attempt at something new but one that never fully rises to the occasion.

My Time at Sandrock certainly doesn’t skimp on the content, with players able to expect at least a hundred hours before they hit the credits. It uses those hours well enough, with an absorbing gameplay loop that always gives players the feeling that they are progressing in one manner or another, even when it might be categorisable as busywork. Despite a weaker presentation than contemporary titles and a last third that meanders without the urgency of what came before, the game is a pleasing experience and one that those with even just a passing interest in the life and crafting sim genre are likely to enjoy their time with.

Super Mario RPG Remake is a classic, must-play RPG designed for casual RPGamers and hardcore fans alike. Even those who know the Italian plumber through his platforming antics should give this game a chance. The charming story is a heartwarming journey, and the gameplay is fun and captivating. The new art makes it feel modern while keeping its essence. While there was a missed opportunity to expand the story, Super Mario RPG Remake is still a fantastic experience worth playing.

Warriors of the Nile 2 is a game built for challenging the battle system. The ways one can break the combat builds are myriad, and a record is kept of every time through, with times, skills, and other stats all kept for posterity. Like any good roguelike, the journey is as important as the destination, and far more relevant to the plot. This is just a fun game to mess around with on occasion, regardless of the lack of story. This doesn’t keep me from wishing there was a story to care about, however. If this studio ever decides to produce a third game of the series with a plot, I would happily game like an Egyptian once again.

In Stars and Time brought forth one of my fears and forced me to confront it with its premise. While the game has such a fantastic story with wonderful characters and a powerful twist, a lot of the repetitive elements can and will be a turn-off to some. I mostly adored my time with the game, but I won’t sugarcoat my frustration in having to constantly replay the same battles and dialogue. For those who stick with it, In Stars and Time is an emotionally engaging tale that is worth the effort.

The Last Faith is less about revolutionizing the Metroidvania formula and more about staying true to its various elements, putting smooth gameplay and pretty visuals near the top of the list. Combat delivers options for various playstyles, even if the generally even difficulty doesn’t particularly warrant having to go outside of the tried-and-true melee approach. Bosses may not be pushovers, but there’s fun inherent in working out how to best each one, and the game is lengthy enough (and has enough hidden secrets on top of it) to feel a full, satisfying package. While some elements didn’t come off as well as planned — world building and narrative fall flat despite obvious attempts to bring them more into the spotlight, for example — the overall package will still go down a treat for Metroidvania fans, and offers plenty to even bring new followers into the fold.

Baldur’s Gate III is a title that many would not have thought possible just a few years ago. The game serves to further Larian Studios’s already strong reputation, and the studio deserves massive credit for refusing to panic, taking its time to get things right, and continuing to offer improvements even after launch at an impressive rate. Hopefully, it is able to reap the richly deserved rewards for doing so.

Eternights deserves some credit as it brings a lot of ideas to the table – perhaps too many. Players are tasked to manage party members, social relationships, a calendar, dungeon crawling, and more during the game’s short run time of less than a dozen hours. There’s a lot going on, most of it competently designed, but lacking that touch of finesse or technical flourish that oozes from the few series that serve as inspiration. The game wants to be a hot date, with some beautifully designed characters who are full of personality. Unfortunately, like those characters stuck on a train during the end of the world, Eternights is all dressed up with nowhere to go.

There’s plenty to enjoy from balancing the equipment of Backpack Hero. Like fitting everything into a suitcase, figuring out where everything slots in can be very satisfying. However, there are plenty of rough edges. The story mode falls flat fast and the presentation fades quickly into the background. The gameplay loop is so richly varied that finding new ways to break the game with a build is always entertaining, it is just a shame that the presentation surrounding this gameplay is so lackluster.

As soon as Star Ocean: The Second Story R released, I was glued to my recliner and I didn’t want to stop playing. Not only is this a favourite gem from my childhood, but this edition is definitely the definitive one. Everything Gemdrops has produced in Star Ocean: Second Story R shows a lot of love and respect towards the original game while making it much more accessible and fresh to newcomers. While I will always cherish my memories of the cheesiness that is PSX edition, the joy I felt replaying a favourite game was strong throughout. Star Ocean: The Second Story R is the best Star Ocean game hands down, and every RPGamer owes themself a chance to enjoy this amazing remake. You won’t be disappointed.

Persona 5 Tactica offers a captivating tale in a really cute world. The game is solid in every aspect, but the battle system and the soundscape are undoubtedly where the game shines brightest. The simpler mechanics may be initially dismaying for veterans of the series, but they fit the game nicely once the player gets used to them. Persona 5 Tactica is an easy recommendation for both fans of the series, while newcomers who want to dip their toes into its stylings will find it very welcoming.

Given the amount of time between Lords of the Fallen’s initial outing and its reboot, this new release feels far less like an attempt to right the ship and more like its own thing. This is a positive, as it certainly forges a strong identity of its own, and provides a robust amount of content to back it up. But much like its predecessor, it struggles to push past its self-imposed limitations, in this case revolving around its combat system and dual-world gimmick. With frustrating encounter designs and a need to fine-tune some aspects, the game veers from joyful to jarring and back again far too frequently to let a sense of fun be its main takeaway.

The base gameplay of Dave the Diver is so engaging and addictive that Mintrocket really did not need to go the extra mile by crafting such a diverse and creative adventure, but doing so takes Dave the Diver from being a great game to a wonderful and memorable underwater adventure.

Did Kazuma Kiryu need another game? The short answer is both yes and no. It’s great that this side story exists as it does bridge some plot points from previous games together, and offers some interesting lead-ins for Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. On the other hand, the narrative overall doesn’t have the same strength that we’ve seen from this series time and again. There is a lot to love here for fans of the series, but there are also some noticeable issues that keep it from being an easy recommendation. The Man Who Erased His Name is a decent addition to the series, but it misses the mark in being a truly memorable experience.

Thirsty Suitors is a game made for those who love comedy and storytelling. Outerloop Games has made such an enjoyable love letter to IPs such as Persona and Scott Pilgrim, while still crafting a game that stands on its own two feet. There is so much personality and honesty that feels refreshing, and Jala is a winner of a heroine because her growth is so important and integral to the story being told. While the combat is serviceable and the game can be completed in under six hours, don’t let it detract you from giving Thirsty Suitors a chance. There is a lot of heart and soul in this game, and that alone makes it worth experiencing.

Silent Hope is an adorable romp through some dungeons. There are some detractions with the Princess trying her hardest to chat the player’s ear off as they try to navigate the frustrating menus in the base camp. But, each dive into the Abyss feels fun. Customizing the characters, obtaining more loot and punishing the too cute enemies is addicting. Many players should be happy to dive in to the Abyss and hit those adorable critters even if they might want to leave the Princess on mute.

In a year dominated by sequels to franchise favorites, there was a hope that Starfield would carve its own path to success. While the team at Bethesda should be commended for taking such a big swing, there’s no denying that the game doesn’t feel like a cohesive work. Maybe continued support and future sequels will make something more meaningful out of a work that is clearly deeply enamored with both science fiction and space exploration. Unforunately, this first launch has had far more mixed results than desired.

Fate/Samurai Remnant makes its mark with a strong story and setting, though the gameplay isn’t quite enough to make the most of it. It’s still enjoyable to work through, but the repetitiveness of everything begins to grate by the time a first playthrough is done, running counter to the game’s clear intention of getting players to revisit it for the additional story elements and endings. Fans of the series will certainly be able to appreciate its take on the formula and how it connects to the wider series, and despite the game’s weaknesses, its story should be more than strong enough to get new fans into the franchise.

While I was expecting to turn tail and run during my experience with World of Horror, I am happy to report that I couldn’t put the game down. I adore the dark elements in the game’s presentation and storytelling, but the experience forced me to confront some of my personal thresholds, reminding me that pushing boundaries is what I signed up for. Although I wasn’t incredibly keen on the game’s combat and UI, I cannot deny how often I kept crawling back to my computer to play just one more round. World of Horror is a compelling game that begs the player’s attention, providing an addictive experience that one cannot easily run away from.

I wanted to love Fae Farm, but honestly, the full package was mostly disappointing. It is a game that tries to compete with the popular farming sims, but never quite does enough to stand on its own feet. While there are kernels of good ideas, they are marred by questionable design choices, with quests and goals that never feel satisfying. I am all for the coziness revolution, but Fae Farm, unfortunately, feels anything but.

Forspoken has plenty of other glaring issues like its occasionally janky platforming that results in Frey falling off buildings or its less than memorable soundtrack. It also has a number of additional points to praise like the scale of its cities and the cast of cute cat chimeras that Frey can lay down and cuddle with. This duality of fantastic ideas with less-than-stellar execution places Forspoken in a place where very few games end up — smack dab in the middle. It’s not so bad that it should be burned by fire, but not nearly good enough to make anyone’s game of the year list.

Long Gone Days is ultimately a case of tempered expectations. The combat and visuals have little details that show a lot of care has gone into everything. The scope of the story is where the snag comes in, as too many hard-hitting moments get lost in the brisk pace that it attempts to juggle everything, making many of them fall flat in execution. This can be disheartening as there’s a nearly constant feeling of wanting them to do more with what they’re providing. It can be a lot to get past but, taking the game at face value the story beats still flow well enough and tell a good story providing moments that players can reflect on. The adventure is quick and has fun gameplay moments, so it is a perfectly satisfactory way to experience a well-intentioned story.

The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails is a fun, breezy action RPG with an interesting story and great cast. Though combat can become repetitive and frustrating, it’s never enough to significantly detract from an addictive gameplay loop. Its boss battles and visual performance are excellent highlights, even if its simplistic look alludes to its decade-old portable origins. Trails veterans should enjoy some of the references to the main series and lore-building, while any action RPG fan will find lots to love about Falcom’s latest effort to bring the entire series to English-speaking audiences.

Sea of Stars is a perfectly balanced modern RPG with a beautiful world to explore. The game’s story is full of heart and charismatic characters that push it forward in emotional and meaningful ways. There is a plethora of amazing music and sounds that contribute to its classic vibe, and some great minigames. Its retro RPG inspirations are used only as a foundation; it comes into its own through clever storytelling ideas and vivid world interactions. Although it never quite reaches the heights of the classic RPGs it takes inspiration from, Sea of Stars stands out as a superb, modern turn-based RPG due to its incredible polish and refinement.

My time with Lies of P was exactly the intense and gratifying experience that I hoped for. As one who holds Bloodborne in the highest regard as one of FromSoftware’s finest achievements, I found myself absolutely enamored with Round 8 Studio’s unique, clever take on the formula. While the game broadly functions similarly to the best the Soulslike genre has to offer, Lies of P‘s tweaks and refinements are so masterfully planned out and implemented that they make every moment of gameplay a pleasure. From the dopamine hits provided by exploring the labyrinthine level layouts, to the extreme elation of finally besting a challenging boss, there’s nary a moment of Lies of P‘s meaty campaign that feels wasted or unsatisfactory. With a post-credits teaser hinting at a second incredible twist on another literary classic lying in wait, the future looks bright for this new addition to the genre. Lies of P, welcome to the top!