For those who have bounced off of other at-home workout products, Ring Fit Adventure makes working out as entertaining as it is satisfying, avoiding the deadly monotony most other exercise programs eventually run into.

This handful of nitpicks notwithstanding, NieR Replicant is a resounding success and a great opportunity to experience a remastered version of this hidden gem. It is absolutely a product of its time, as well as one of the more notorious design minds active in the industry, and it carries these marks on its sleeve, from forced repetition necessary to unlock its multiple endings, to action gameplay that doesn’t shy away from incorporating the occasional side-scrolling platforming or even visual novel section. Of course, new content is always a plus for returning players, but ultimately a hauntingly beautiful score and tons of amazing voice work that brings the unique characters to life for an unforgettable adventure are the true stars of the show, and make sure that no one, first-time players included, walks away as anything less than well satisfied.

In the end, Guardian Heroes, despite showing signs of age in the graphics department, plays just as well as it did back in 1996. More of a brawler with RPG elements than an RPG, it provides quick and fun entertainment, with plenty of features to encourage many rounds of replay. With the addition of online play for the story and versus modes, the multi-player elements of the game can finally show their worth. The remix mode provides updates to the original gameplay, meaning that those both new and old to Guardian Heroes will find plenty to love.

Dragon Quest Builders manages to strike a great balance, combining a streamlined Minecraft-inspired building system with a goal-directed minimalist RPG series. The simple nature of each can lack depth when compared to standalone games in the corresponding genre, but as a combination it works, enabling players to delve into each system without overloading them. The game's somewhat repetitive nature, outdated graphics, and limited combat do somewhat detract, but with the added dash of nostalgia and a hefty dose of humorous charm, Square Enix has the beginnings of a successful formula on its hands with Dragon Quest Builders.

I feel that the way SEGA completed Kiryu's saga was done with so much class, and the investment I felt throughout was constantly there. While the changes to the combat were somewhat of a letdown, I won't deny that every other aspect of the finale wowed me and left me an emotional train wreck. Long time fans of the Yakuza series will likely find The Song of Life to be a satifying conclusion.

Compared to the original release, the Sandras now also boasts a faster travel speed while on the high seas. Apart from that and the new island of Öland, there is also the new post-game Muspelheim dungeon for players to tackle. All previously released cosmetic DLC, namely costumes for Adol and Karja and decorations for the Sandras, are included, as are some tweaks to specific game mechanics like naval combat and mini-games, and some graphical and performance upticks. All told, this package is certainly worthy of being deemed the game’s definitive edition. The Ys formula, while certainly evolved over time, has always been focused on more action-oriented mechanics, and there are enough bells and whistles here to keep it generally engaging, if a bit repetitive, while the storytelling has taken on a more and more prominent role over time. It may not be up the alley of those looking for deeply engrossing gameplay, but for players with a passing interest in the franchise who have not yet committed to this installment, now’s the perfect time to dive in and get their feet wet.

While those looking for a deep, story-heavy RPG might find Octopath Traveler lacking, the game is a hugely enjoyable modern take on traditional turn-based games of yesteryear with a collection of short story, rather than novel-length, narratives. The graphics represent the pinnacle of pixel art and the score is amazing. This game was pretty much a system-seller for me and well worth every penny and hour spent with it.

Triangle Strategy has hit the ground running, setting a new standard for tactical RPGs. With a nearly perfect conviction system that adds spice to every conversation, it rewards players who take the time to explore the world and its inhabitants. The game is breathtaking to view as well with care added to everything. It features characters that grow and evolve, sometimes in unexpected ways, with the world around them. Add to that an amazingly deep, strategic combat system that allows every character to be the star of a fight while being less useful in others and there’s a lot of variety in how to approach every scenario. Fans of deep lore, choice-driven storytelling, and plenty of strategy will be enchanted by how their epic unfolds in this tactical masterpiece.

Being derivative is generally seen as a bad thing, and copy-cat games usually don't get much attention. However, Darksiders proves that being a copy-cat is alright if you manage to equal the source material in terms of quality.

While it would be hard to call Transistor disappointing, it's also impossible to say that it's as good as Supergiant Games' previous title. If the game had taken more time to explain its story, characters, and world, it probably would have been a more enjoyable experience.

It took an unusual amount of effort for me to finally play Child of Light, but the game lingers fondly in my memory now that it finally happened. This is a unique and affecting title that is worth seeking out by any who haven’t tried it before. Just be prepared for Ubisoft not to make playing the game an easy task.

Considering Yakuza 5 was my most anticipated game of 2015, it offered me everything I wanted in a game: a great story, tons of action, and wide areas worth getting lost in. While I wouldn't recommend that newcomers start with this installment, even with the reminisce option, there's enough for both novice and veterans of the series to enjoy. Sega offered me the best Christmas present, and it was completely worth the wait.

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.

With phenomenal music and great art direction, combined with an addictive combat system, it's hard to step away from the keyboard and mouse after the first floor.

The overall depth of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and how well it all ties together is astounding. Though higher expectations mean it is less of a stunning revelation than the first game, Monolith Soft has risen up tall to meet those expectations and delivered spectacularly in every area. 2017 has been one of the greatest years in RPG history; Xenoblade Chronicles 2 caps that off in mesmerising fashion by being one of the finest titles of the year.

Trails in the Sky the 3rd is bound to be a very divisive game among Trails fans. Its radically different structure is such a departure from the prior games that it's inevitably going to turn off some players, but at the same time, the fantastic boss battles and charming moments still manage to keep you hooked through what would, in any other circumstance, be a rather monotonous dungeon crawler. Had it not been for the two prior games of history, I doubt it would be able to hold up as well as it does; indeed, if you haven't played the previous titles, Trails in the Sky the 3rd would be a confusing mess. If, however, like so many Trails fans, you've fallen in love with the cast and want one last adventure with them, Trails in the Sky the 3rd does an admirable job of providing just that.

Atelier Sophie 2: Alchemist of the Mysterious Dream would seem to be the very definition of a sequel which no one wanted. The Mysterious trilogy as a whole received a mixed reception, and not much more was expected of this. And yet, what we’ve got here is a well-crafted narrative in an original setting with a cast of properly developed characters and a plot that actually knows where to find the beat. When I started this game, I was not expecting to find the best Atelier game of its generation, but the development team at Gust has proven with Sophie 2 that they can learn from experience, leveling up in knowledge and skill just as the alchemists do to provide a more polished product.

Ultimately, Arceus is a fun title that does an excellent job rewarding all facets of the Pokémon experience, which will undoubtedly end up flying past a lot of RPGamers who would enjoy it because of embarrassingly poor graphics. For those willing to tolerate the mediocre presentation, an entertaining experience is here for the taking. Hopefully, further experiences in the Legends style will be quickly forthcoming.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined is about new beginnings and, speaking as a relative beginner to the franchise, it is a great adventure. The artwork and character designs are just a treat, and it’s always worth getting to the next island just to see what big bad resides there. The combat system is snappy, making it a fun way to fight to the next heartfelt story beat that runs the whole gamut of emotions. Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is an eye-catching and enjoyable appeal to wide audiences, and serves as a great example for the franchise.

Horizon Forbidden West embraces everything about its predecessor and makes strides in producing an even more compelling world to explore, with intense combat and story moments, and shiny new robo-dinosaurs to punch in the face. I cannot wait to see where Aloy and her companions’ story goes next.

Those who played and did not like the series, or who are bored with it, will find little here to change their minds. The Disgaea brand of near limitless levelling (and grinding to go with it), has always been an acquired taste, and the formula is starting to wear thin.

It’s pleasing to see how strongly Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic has held up and how well it fits on the Nintendo Switch, making one wonder just how many other classic RPGs will see new life on it. For those who haven’t played it before, the Switch port is an ideal time to find out why BioWare’s 2000s output is so highly regarded. For those who have, it’s a great opportunity to recover those fond memories on an incredibly convenient platform.

The game is a cohesive and stunning effort that keeps you coming back for more.

In spite of its technical issues, Marvel’s Midnight Suns is an easy recommendation to strategy and superhero fans or anyone who’s been missing the more traditional BioWare experience. Its tactical combat stands out in the genre and is consistently compelling. The plot is no great shakes but the characters are excellent renditions of decades-old favorites. It’s also a well-paced game, never getting bogged down in any one form of play for too long but free-form enough to allow for players to do that if they wish. Not only is Midnight Suns a great Marvel game, it’s a great game in its own right.

Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is a very well executed roguelite action RPG that brings players back to the fascinating world of Random. While the foremost focus this time isn’t the narrative, the combat system has received such a shot of adrenaline that it more than makes up for it. Combat flows fast and frantic, with a wealth of offensive options mixing melee combat with dice- and card-based attacks. Though there is some necessary repetition that sets in due to the roguelike nature of the gameplay, the many synergies possible between various moving parts of the battle and upgrade systems make for a wealth of build flexibility. Anyone with any interest in roguelikes like Hades will want to give it a whirl, while the dark fairy tale atmosphere will be appealing to others. The game wants to present a polished, not revolutionary, experience and manages to deliver on this in spades.

While not significantly different from Diamond/Pearl, the expanded initial Pokédex alone makes the nearly sixty-hour game far more enjoyable.

I cared more for these characters and the world than I ever did in previous Assassin’s Creed games, and I think that’s part of why this reboot is so successful. Playing Assassin’s Creed Odyssey left me feeling valiant and triumphant as I worked my way up the cultist food chain, and and I was always excited to see what Kassandra was off to discover next.

Valkyria Chronicles II does gameplay right, but lacks polish in other areas.

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.

OFF is an unnerving dream that steeps one foot into a fever-soaked nightmare. This surrealist approach makes it a truly trendsetting experience with how the characters, story, and visual presentation meld into a highly artistic personal journey that is not like anything else. Combat is always serviceable and the new balanced approach to buffs and debuffs allows extra time for deciphering puzzle clues, making them less frustrating to deal with. The nuanced layers added from the original soundtrack are definitely missed, but the muted melancholy the new soundtrack provides is still a trip to experience. If surrealism mixed with an uncanny sense of wrongness sounds enticing, then OFF will not disappoint.

Ys: Memories of Celceta has a lot going for it. The game's battle system is fast and very engaging, the story really takes off in the latter half, and the soundtrack is engrossing and memorable.

I felt both so happy and sad when I finished Atelier Ryza 3. On the one hand, I was so happy that the story stuck the landing and Gust truly learned from the missteps in Atelier Ryza 2. On the other hand, I was so heartbroken that my time with these characters whom I have grown to love throughout three games was finally coming to an end. While there are a few hiccups, overall Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key is a brilliant send-off for Ryza, her friends, and fans of the series as a whole.

Aside from dropping the popular Friend Safari, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire bring all the improvements and features from X/Y to the world of Ruby/Sapphire as expected. The presentation has minor issues, mechanics retained from Ruby/Sapphire are still not fun, and the diminished difficulty and lack of any draw for newcomers make this a less appealing game than X/Y for those who are picky about which Pokémon titles they play.

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.

As a whole, CrossCode is a great game with a memorable story and great combat. It makes a great transition from the PC to the Switch aside from a few minor technicalities, and now players can enjoy this game on the go. The gameplay is a joy, taking the Zelda and Secret of Mana styles of gameplay and evolving it into something much better. However, the bombardment of puzzles throughout the game will turn off those who prefer more ‘action’ in their RPG formula. Nonetheless, this game provides a unique experience with plenty of the MMO-esque options and an incredible sense of world-building that will leave players with plenty to do and explore.

Valkyria Chronicles is considered one of the greatest RPGs of the last generation, so this true sequel coming ten years later always had some lofty expectations to look up to. The combat significantly improves upon the original and RPGamers that value interesting, strategic battles will be extremely pleased with Valkyria Chronicles 4. However, it doesn’t quite manage to emulate the same interesting, thought-provoking plot that dealt with delicate themes in a mature manner. Nevertheless, while the narrative of VC4 doesn’t reach those lofty heights, sixty hours quickly disappeared in the course of playing it. Perhaps that’s more indicative of its quality than comparing it to something it’s not.

Etrian Untold 2 delivers the same kind of experience the first Etrian Untold did, but with further refinement.

Aether & Iron is the sort of game I like to see exist. It populates a novel setting with an interesting cast of characters and uses them to build upon a solid gameplay structure, while trying out plenty of its own ideas. There are definitely flaws within, but despite these, it’s ultimately a very enjoyable game to play through, and I would be very happy to continue Gia Randazzo’s story in the future.

As is, it is a fun timesink for WRPG fans, but don't try it if you aren't enthralled by the genre or if you don't have the time or money to play every WRPG that comes out. This one isn't worth the full price.

Defender's Quest is a triumphant blending of RPG and tower defense and should provide plenty of entertainment for fans of both genres. Though the controls may not be ideally suited to the genre, Level Up Labs has done a nice job bringing players steadily to the game and offers an impressive level of control that will appeal to the hardcore and casual player alike. Addictive gameplay and entertaining writing makes for a great experience all around.

With a more balanced difficulty and stronger puzzle designs, Okamiden probably would have been able to beat The Legend of Zelda at its own game, but for now, Chibiterasu will have to settle for simply being on even ground with Link.

Even with its technical shortcomings on last-generation hardware, it is hard to not call Assassin’s Creed Valhalla an amazing open-world RPG. It’s obvious that Ubisoft did its homework and learned from Origins and Odyssey. Valhalla’s story is one of the best not only in the franchise but in the open-world RPG genre. The world is vast but not laden with empty, pointless space. Combat is addicting, character customization is the best the franchise has ever seen, and the welcome return of composer Jesper Kyd makes for one of last year’s most immersive and satisfying experiences.

Gloomhaven offers hours of mental challenges with a sophisticated battle system. It is based on a board game but tries to go beyond that. Those already attracted to the idea of Gloomhaven can have it here for less assembly and with an additional Guildmaster mode. Since this digital version becomes tiresome after a while because the vast number of missions ultimately feel repetitive, it’s better to play in small doses. The game is recommendable, but probably playing it online with friends in co-op mode is closer to the original’s experience.

The Vale offers a unique and touching experience in which sighted players will learn the unique abilities of blind people and how they “see” the world. Just as the princess encourages her companion to help as many people as they can, the game itself encourages mainstream games to make themselves more accessible to people who need assistance. The Vale: Shadow of the Crown appreciably widens the definition of video games and is not only a very welcome boon for blind and low-vision gamers, but a worthwhile title for those who seek a fresh and unique gaming experience. So close your eyes and use your ears to understand your surroundings because this game is absolutely worth the time.

Astalon: Tears of the Earth has just about everything a fan of Metroidvania-RPGs could want in the sub-genre. The plot is simple but flexible, the characters are well presented, and the tower is a meatgrinder. There is challenge enough to be found for the average gamer, though of course mileage may vary. Personally, this game presented an interesting and difficult twenty hours to complete, but what a feeling of satisfaction as the final credits rolled. I am looking forward to seeing where things go from here.

Shadows Over Loathing very much picks up where West of Loathing left off. The two games have a very similar appeal, focusing on fun first and foremost but providing plenty of depth in their puzzles and exploration to ensure players are well engaged throughout. Exploring Ocean City offers plenty of rewards for players, be it satisfaction from solving a tough puzzle or challenge, or simply a good chuckle at the strange goings on.

Dragon's Crown is completely worth your attention, and if you have friends to play it with, it'll be worth the crazy ride.

There’s a lot of things in Tainted Grail: Conquest that show the developers knew what they were doing. It is rare to see a game so fully embrace the type of game it wants to be, as the roguelite nature symbolizes the growth of the protagonist to fully understand their surroundings. The game has a forgiving nature as it does not punish players for dying too often and in turn makes it accessible to pick up and play. All the tinkering options with classes and deckbuilding make it daunting at first glance, but after getting the hang of it, each playthrough feels unique even when using the same class. The realm of Arthurian legend has never quite been explored this way before, and seeing the psychological wear and tear on the denizens of this trapped world is addicting. Get ready to dive into the Wyrdness, just make sure to have enough Wyrdcandle ready to light the way.

A couple of hang-ups prevent it from being a truly excellent experience, but regardless, it comes highly recommended.

For those looking for an exceptional simulation-RPG experience chock full of great humor and charm, Recettear may be that diamond in the rough that you've been searching for.

As long as you don't judge the game on its beginning, Final Fantasy XIII is a game worthy of the series, and a terrific game in its own right.

Minus needing an entire further game to get to the saga’s full conclusion, Trails of Cold Steel III is everything I want from an RPG with a world that fully sucks players in, amazing music and locations in which one can just sit and relax, and a twisting and fascinating story involving incredibly deep characters that are easy to get attached to. Erebonia once again gets some fantastic attention to detail that really brings its complex story and people to life, as the many threads that have been introduced throughout the series further intertwine and begin coming to a head. Combined with a further improved combat system and further quality-of-life improvements, it marks yet another step up for the rightly beloved series. Now all that’s left is just the agonising wait for the fourth and final part of the Cold Steel saga to see how it all ends.

Though the combat has some limitations and the game may be a little frayed around the edges, Ys Origin is absolutely worth a look for anyone who somehow dodged previous releases on PC, PS4, Vita, or Xbox One. It’s also one of the most accessible starting points into the Ys franchise as a whole, and doesn’t require a huge time investment, as most players can finish a single story in about ten to twelve hours, with each progressive playthrough taking slightly less time. For long-time Ys aficionados, it’s neat to see where the lore that has become a staple of the series has its origin.

Armored Princess cleans up and expands considerably on The Legend but manages to stumble over itself with a punishing difficulty curve and a few errors of its own that manage to pull the game down more than the improvements buoy it.

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.

I’m an antisocial recluse and took no advantage of the features available by connecting to the Internet, but the presence of such things in addition to the core experience means Wargroove has an enormous amount of content. Even without going through all the internet-enabled content, this game has plenty of material to keep anyone interested in a tactical experience invested. It’s not a game in which every element is effective, especially for those who demand a powerful narrative, but Chucklefish has made something worth investigating for those thinking Nintendo has let Advance Wars sit around without a follow-up for too long.

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, Citizen Sleeper is the kind of game one has to be in the right mood for. The setting is cold and alienating, while the overall mood for much of the game is a desperate struggle for survival against stacked odds. Once the stress of this abates, however, there are some genuinely lovely moments of characterization and storytelling that are absolutely worth it to experience. The challenging dice-based tabletop gaming experience is stressful at first, but loses some of its challenge as situations are dealt with, giving way to lovely and thought-provoking story interludes. With the developer supporting the game further with several pieces of free DLC, there’s a good amount of worthwhile sci-fi to experience here.

Playing through Final Fantasy VII, it’s easy to see why it was the game in the series selected to be remade. There are some fundamental issues in its overall story and it certainly hasn’t stood the test of time as well as many other titles have, but it still provides a strong base with its engaging cast and it’s easy to see how its steampunk designs would look much better with today’s technology. Final Fantasy VII is worth checking out and offers plenty of entertaining moments, but it’s going to be appreciated by those looking at it with rose-tinted nostalgia far more than anyone picking it up for the first time.

What Tides of Numenera offers is a rich experience in learning lore and then making a final multiple guess at the ending, all the while never being fully satisfying in terms of presentation. There's more playability to this take on this game, but it might be better off being used for a title that has far less baggage.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection doesn’t aim to completely reinvent what’s been established in the previous two entries in the series. Instead, it smartly tweaks and iterates on what worked and what didn’t work to create a much more refined and enjoyable monster-catching experience. The story touches on more serious subjects, and keeps things moving along well, even if it lacks the depth it could have. Combat is plenty of fun, with individual battles having more impact and much of the tedium of the previous series entries cleaned up, but exploring and collecting monsters is a blast, and having available non-battle activities for monsters makes it all the more exciting to go out and find new ones. Fans of collecting monsters and min/maxing their team will have almost an endless supply of tweaking to play around with. Any fan of Monster Hunter or Pokémon-like games should not pass on this one.

Torchlight is an awkward game to assess. On one hand, the gameplay is a major disappointment in that it's worse than Diablo II in every way, but on the other hand it has no major flaws and, even for a hater of easy games like me, gets addicting once the Shadow Vault, an unending postgame dungeon whose enemies are tied to your level, becomes available.

Shadowrun: Hong Kong offers a steady evolution of Harebrained Schemes' Shadowrun experience. It's such an enjoyable game that a director's cut wouldn't need to do much to boost it from an excellent, tactically engaging family conspiracy to a must-have.

Live A Live takes the systems it has and finds new and innovative ways to tell various adventures through a simple framework. Its unique highlighting of different genres, time periods, or homages is masterfully executed. The combat is deeper than it looks and finds ways to keep things varied and interesting, while melding excellently with its sublime storytelling. Each scenario is a treat to the senses in a different way, making any of them capable of being a favourite. This game is an experience that needs to be played to be believed. Square Enix has done the world a great service by updating this hidden gem and making it available to a wider and modern audience.

There's no strong reason to go back and play the original version of Mario and Luigi with this one around, and I had about as much fun now as I did in 2003. The interface amenities are certainly a nice touch, Bowser's Minions is a very respectable addition, and having a beefed-up role for the Koopalings as minions is something I personally delighted in experiencing. It's certainly not going to convert anyone who never cared for this style of game, but what's here is a fun romp.

For those who enjoyed Trails in the Sky, Trails from Zero or the Trails of Cold Steel titles, diving into Trails to Azure now that an official release has arrived is an absolute no-brainer. Despite the game’s aging presentation, an excellent story, quality localisation, and multiple quality-of-life improvements will overcome any qualms players may have about minor issues and fills in a critical narrative gap in the overall series. While it isn’t recommended as the first Trails title for newcomers, for established fans of the series, The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure is an absolute must-play.

Sunless Sea is a unique experience that few fans of careful planning and literary cannibalism should ignore. Proponents of Fallen London's dark sensibilities and chilling, lore-rich writing will more than forgive its few mechanical trespasses; however, even less patient gamers may want to peek in to experience the sights and sounds of the zee.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is not a perfect game, but it is a pretty awesome one.

Zettai Hero Project: Unlosing Ranger Vs. Darkdeath Evilman is a lot of fun. It can be a mindless dungeon delve or the highly focused bout of number juggling and grinding that fans have come to expect from Nippon Ichi Software.

For anyone who played the initial release on the Wii U, there’s not a ton to revisit, though the combat remains immensely satisfying and the story continues to hold up and is further beefed up by new content. While the game won’t appeal to those seeking the tactical gameplay of a classic Fire Emblem, anyone who didn’t jump onto the idol train last generation could do far worse than picking up this Encore, especially with a dearth of other games in a similar vein on the Nintendo Switch.

If a steep difficulty curve, the promise of learning and juggling deep gameplay systems, and keeping a close eye trained on stats at all times sound right up your alley, or if you just want to be immersed in a well-made, atmospheric world, then Stygian is well worth checking out.

Perhaps if this game had come out in 2005, when it was originally created, when the industry was slower and the game releases were more spread out, it might have been more appealing to more players.

Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon could be played by someone new to the series quite easily thanks to its many refinements and the tutorial contained within the Prologue chapters. Veterans of the series will find a game that combines the refinements of more recent entries, save for a lack of variety in battle objectives.

Dodgeball Academia breaks off at an appropriate point and leaves a good feeling behind; there’s enough about the game to enjoy its content. It successfully evokes the feelings that come from watching fun cartoons, though on the gameplay side it feels like it would benefit from having more standout and extended matches as regular encounters towards the end because it felt like they were mostly making up the numbers. There’s definitely scope available for Pocket Trap to build on what it has created here, and I’d be very happy to see it do so.

Fire Emblem Echoes provoked a multitude of emotions from me, not all of them positive. It's different than anything else in the series, and shows what happens when a developer feels like veering away from the established path. It's to the game's credit that I found it quite addictive and sank a lot of hours into it, plus much of what takes place is genuinely interesting. Yet some of the nasty tricks it pulls in the last battles were just infuriating. A somewhat mixed bag, but absolutely worth investigating by series stalwarts.

Dream Team is certainly not a bad game, and the positives it offers are considerable. It nevertheless feels like a missed opportunity for something even better, and veterans of the series will probably find it getting a little old before the conclusion is reached.

During its six-hour runtime, not counting the New Game Plus mode that gives access to extra battles, secrets, and endings, Everhood manages to not only distinguish itself from its influences, but also to turn the expectations that come with them upside-down, all to provide an experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether or not the game will achieve a cult status remains to be seen, but players itching for something out of the ordinary better not let Everhood slip under their radar.

Rune Factory 4 Special is an easy recommendation to any RPGamer who enjoys farming and life sim games, as well as for those casual Stardew Valley fans that wished for more variety in the combat aspects. It’s been long enough since the 3DS release that this game can be enjoyed fresh again, and for those who missed it the first time around, now’s the perfect time to give it a try. I thoroughly enjoyed my time back in the land of Selphia, and seeing everything that made Rune Factory one of my favorite portable game series work so well on the Switch has me even more excited to see what’s ahead for the series now that we’ve sadly left the dual-screen period of gaming behind.

With its placement as a capstone on the titles that have come before, The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is very much one for the fans. It’s largely a celebration of all that’s come before it, both narratively and in its combat, and ultimately successful for doing so. It’s nature means Trails into Reverie is lacking some of the fun investigative parts that have helped players inhabit the world, but being able to see all of the main characters interact again is a pleasure, and it once again pulls off an impressive emotional finale. With all that said and done, it’s definitely time the series headed for new pastures and hopefully western fans won’t have too long to wait before finding out where it goes in Kuro no Kiseki.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma stands as a triumphant evolution for the beloved franchise. By boldly venturing into a new, culturally rich Eastern setting, it breathes fresh air into its established formula while retaining the core elements that fans adore. The cohesive integration of its various gameplay elements—from the strategic depths of village management and the relaxed rhythm of farming to the engaging action of its combat and the heartwarming intricacies of its relationships—creates a truly satisfying experience. The game’s strengths lie in its innovative approach to community building, its refined combat system, and its deeply endearing cast of characters, all presented with captivating visuals.

It’s very pleasing to see Inazuma Eleven make its return in strong form. Level-5 has translated its gameplay onto PC and consoles well, while keeping the series’ nature and enduring charm intact, as well as ensuring that fans will have plenty to keep them occupied ahead of any potential sequel. There are still plenty of areas for improvement: the non-story modes struggle to find a gameplay loop that is particularly engaging, and there are times where more of a challenge would be welcomed. However, with a solid revival to build upon, here’s hoping it’s a much shorter wait before the next entry.

When a game is successful it can be easy to just make a few changes and call it a day for a sequel. Altering the formula with how traversal works and adding in new ways of making the game feel both punishing and fair is what makes Darkest Dungeon II exemplary. With so many different options of making things work it is easy to get lost in this world for one more run. Those that stick past the many fallen runs will find a game that shines by not having players learn to run from walking, but rather how to stand battered and bloody after crawling and fighting through everything the game throws at them. This game is a well-designed gem for any brave enough to enter its depths.

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.

Final Fantasy XV offered a lot of surprises, some good, some bad. As you make progress, it eventually feels like you're playing through two different games merged into one. Some will be more forgiving than others, though it never ruined the experience for me.

For those who’ve stuck with Class VII through thick and thin over three games, The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV is the crowning achievement to an exceptionally well-written story with plenty of tears and laughter mixed together into a timeless package. Continued iteration of an already excellent combat system and improved pacing past the first act come together to create a unique experience that I will no doubt continue to treasure for a long time. Though it took a while to get here, the journey was absolutely worth it.

Although it's not going to win over those who struggled to get into Bravely Default from the early going, Bravely Second should hold great appeal for everyone else.

Skyward Sword HD should be commended for its attempt to improve on the original. Having a new control scheme and making a good deal of Fi’s advice optional make it a more palatable experience. However, the game still suffers from pacing issues that made the original feel too bloated as well as a disappointing deemphasis on exploration. This remaster could have realistically improved upon a lot, yet it would still fall short compared to the series’ strongest entries. There is still enough for those looking for a more traditional 3D Zelda experience on the Switch provided they keep their expectations in check.

If you're a fan of this style of game and have played the best recent releases, look behind you. Because that's where Wasteland 2 is going to be.

However, don't go into Muramasa expecting an impressive story. For gamers that want an experience full of beautiful scenery and engaging gameplay, Muramasa will provide just that.

I never felt short-changed by Minit; I simply wanted to play it more, which is a testament to the game's design. It's such a simple, tight formula, but is executed so well that it just feels perfect.

I haven’t played an Obsidian game in a long while, and I have to say that in terms of characters, storytelling, and worldbuilding, I felt right at home with everything that was happening throughout Avowed‘s modest runtime. Even with the uninspired combat and the performance issues, I found myself constantly wanting to explore the Living Lands, make potentially life-altering decisions that could affect the world, and steal Marius’ snacks for good measure. Avowed does a fabulous job of keeping players on their toes while also weaving stories that make players want to see everything through to the end. While Avowed has some blemishes, there is a lot to love in this world, and I want to see more of it.

The Prince’s Edition is probably the best way to enjoy this content, as its staggered inclusion throughout the game gives it more utility to the player as a means of raising levels, materiel, and equipment, rather than leaving one with a feeling of “more of the same” well after the player has exhausted what the main game has to offer. Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is nothing like its predecessor in general playstyle, but it shares the same sense of whimsy and wonder, the same motifs of sadness and redemption, and is a well-built game overall.

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.

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.

While South Park: The Fractured But Whole improves on Stick of Truth in a lot of ways, the whole experience feels somehow less grand. Although the game is slightly longer, probably lasting most players 20-30 hours, it doesn't push the boundaries nearly as far as Stick of Truth, and the poor pacing towards the end of the game definitely detracts from the overall experience. That said, there are a huge number of highly memorable moments peppered throughout the game, and it's an experience South Park fans won't want to miss.

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.

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 Quest is an excellent fifteen-hour adventure filled with humor, well-designed gameplay, and vibrant, detailed graphics that make the relatable characters and world around them just pop. While this game might be on the radar for current fans of the SteamWorld universe, it should pique the interest of many fans of well-written, visually pretty RPGs as well. I’m delighted I got a chance to play this and now find myself interested in digging into the rest of Image & Form’s other titles.