Elden Ring is a potentially great game that is hindered by massive performance issues. It doesn’t do anything particularly genre-defining, as it mostly sticks to what FromSoftware always does. It will no doubt please fans of the Dark Souls series. But its lack of accessibility options and somewhat restrictive multiplayer may leave some wanting. Ultimately, I think it will potentially offer a better experience down the line, as the day-one patch has already changed some fundamentals of the game. With no real improvement regarding its performance on PC, Elden Ring is a hard game to recommend until a more stable version is available.

Overall, God of War feels like a game made with a specific audience in mind, and I don’t fall into its parameters. Regardless though, the God of War PC port holds up well, gameplay remains similar, and it can be accessible to people with a variety of rigs. For that reason alone, it may be worth a shot.

In an attempt to make Resident Evil 4 with more modern sensibilities, it has left behind what made the original game so great to begin with.

Shadow of the Erdtree is more Elden Ring, just with a much better performance. However, I was underwhelmed by some of the locations and felt as though the boss fights weren't challenging in a way that felt rewarding when I did manage to beat them.

Franchise fans should be psyched to get the two Great Ace Attorney games, and in a polished package. It won’t change your mind about these titles one way or the other, unless you have a strong feeling about the period-piece setting. But it does what it sets out to do.

Doki Doki Literature Club Plus is a great way to revisit a visual novel that made quite a splash. For newcomers, it’s easy to hop into and enjoy, even offering the PC “workarounds.” For people who’ve joined the club before, the extra stories and media are enjoyable. The sole downside is that, with all its accessibility, Doki Doki Literature Club Plus is difficult to read on the Switch and has an unfriendly UI. It also lacks easy one-button controls for things like auto-advancing or checking the history, as its contemporaries do. Still, it’s a fascinating read and story.

I wish there were a prettier, less gruesome way to say it, but Hitman 3 is one of the most tranquil, meditative media experiences centered on acts of violence you can find. Even without that statement’s qualifiers, which places the game in a rather niche category, Hitman 3 stands out as an exceptional puzzle game. Returning fans concerned with how commonly trilogies in gaming fail to stick the landing can breath a sigh of relief, too. Hitman 3’s gameplay is enveloped by a well-told conclusion that continues to implement the trappings of genre without spoiling its surprises.

With amazing visuals, a fun story, and short bite-sized stages, this is a game you can easily pick up and put down.

While I feel like the Jupiter nonograms in Picross feature some better executed puzzles and final designs, Squeakross: Home Squeak Home offers a fresh take on a nonogram game. The character and home customization really provide an incentive to solve puzzles. The quality of life features and controls work well, so you could easily play with a controller. It’s a cute approach to a classic puzzle genre with plentiful play incentives.

What this This Way Madness Lies lacks in terms of narrative depth, it more than makes up for in refreshing combat and clever characterization. It’s a breath of fresh air that also serves as a heartfelt sendup to both classic JRPGs and classic literature.

Ultimately, it feels like the game could have benefited from a smaller scope or a more linear structure. Focus on the duels could have created a more engrossing product, especially if it honed in on the narrative for a more concise and cinematic experience. But as it stands, Ghost of Tsushima is another AAA open world title and doesn’t seek to define itself as anything other than that.

Otomate knows how nonsensical the concept for Cupid Parasite is, rolls with it, and I am here for it. It is absolutely a lot. But it’s so different that it’s refreshing. Especially since Cupid is a great heroine. That does mean that, for some, it’s so ridiculous that it might be distracting. Especially since part of the game is dedicated to making the men seem incredibly weird. But the real heartache comes from the fact that it launched in such a state. Especially since, a month later, it is still like this. I enjoyed it, but I strongly recommend waiting for the patch.

When it comes down to it, Life is Strange: True Colors tells a good story, includes a strong cast of characters, and feels like a suitable successor in what is a reliable line of adventures that deal with tough topics. It has heart and people who enjoy adventure games and the series will likely fall in love with Alex, Steph, Ryan, and Haven Springs. If someone isn’t into the series though, it might not be the installment that changes their minds and makes them a fan.

Whereas Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley felt like you got to experience a new story in Moomin lore, Moomintroll: Winter’s Warmth is closer to an interactive storybook game. It puts its own spin on a beloved story while maintaining the original spirit of Tove Jansson’s work, making it a delight for fans regardless of familiarity. I’m not sure if Hyper Games will continue the series, but I would be interested to see what it comes up with next.

Lies of P is a game that draws inspiration from a handful of things that have remained within the popular consciousness for good reason, and at the very least attempts to set out and build upon the foundations set by those inspirations. And while it will more than likely please those looking to scratch the itch Bloodborne left behind, its lackluster localization and generally narrow playstyle may leave some wanting. Especially after the release of Armored Core VI, which is hard to hold a candle to by comparison. That said it’s a game that has a lot of ideas, some that manage to hit and others that sort of slide off. Ultimately, Lies of P is an interesting spin on an age-old fairy tale and attempts to fill the hole Bloodborne left behind, and it really tries its best to do so.

After going through a few Virche Evermore -Error: Salvation- routes, I feel like this is a Switch otome that could appeal to those who enjoyed games like Code: Realize or Piofiore and want something even more mature. It’s a darker and more visceral tale where it feels difficult to earn that happy ending. However, it is incredibly graphic and violent, which could turn some people looking for love off. What is here is intriguing, but it is a lot and not for everyone. Especially since the good endings are so walled off.

BlazBlue Entropy Effect is an enjoyable roguelike that players will no doubt be able to play for more than a handful of hours. It sets itself apart from other games within the same genre due to it’s strong focus on characters and character builds, but the same-ness of stages leaves something to be desired. However, due to the limited stages and lack of engaging story it may not be too enticing for those looking for a roguelike with a little more substance.

It is this general lack of memorable content, or downright terrible additions, that hold back Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 significantly. This could easily be the fourth best game in the series if it had the content and maps to match its gameplay. Even still, that gameplay is enough for me to have some fun and recommend this title to others. There is something so enticing about the Omnimovement system that I hope is in every non-jetpack title from now on. The incredible feel of BO6 is enough to keep me hooked for now until, hopefully, Treyarch gives us worthy content to enjoy.

Celestia: Chain of Fate is an okay enough otome game for those in search of a game with Harry Potter-like academy, magic, angels, and demons. However, it doesn’t really do much to stand out otherwise. The character designs aren’t as striking as those in its contemporaries, there is awkward phrasing in the script, the story involves some common situations and tropes, and there are certain absent quality of life features.

Even though its more visually polished than some of the other shooters out there, the lack of innovation and the small number of seven stages makes Gradius V a must for fans of the series only. [JPN Import]

When it shines, Space Marine 2 can be really good but there’s just a few too many irritating flaws to recommend it as much as I want to.

Though the story can sometimes verge on the uncomfortable—it delves into themes of child abuse, self-harm, and sexual violence—it still provided a fascinating read. The pencil crayon-like artwork of 100 Nen is also a treat, giving the whole game a unique and eye-catching aesthetic. Ichiko and Aria’s relationship developing from indifference to friendship to an obsessive love that bordered on hatred is the kind of content I always eat up, and man, did MAGES provide a feast.

Magical Delicacy offers a cozy and relaxing experience that you can play at a leisurely pace, which makes it inclusive to all players, regardless of skill level. The cooking aspects are done incredibly well, and it creates an enticing gameplay loop where you want to keep making new dishes. However, the game was not ambitious enough with its centralized theme about witches, which had ample opportunities to introduce some fascinating mechanics but failed to capitalize on this, ultimately holding back the experience.

Final Fantasy V Pixel Remaster reminded me of just how fun the older Final Fantasy titles were. It will potentially be something of a hit-or-miss for die-hard fans of the original entry, with its poor user interface and reimagined pixel artwork. However, this is a great a time as ever for newcomers to check this classic entry in the Final Fantasy series out. As it offers a fair amount of quality of life improvements that will appeal to modern sensibilities and make the game easier to pick up and play.

It doesn’t have the depth of some similar simulations and I’m not sure it will have the staying power of an Animal Crossing game. It’s definitely a pleasant, simple simulation.

How much you enjoy Raccoin: Coin Pusher Roguelike will depend on how you feel about luck determining the course of every run instead of skill. It is a roguelike, but the influence of RNG in so many ways can make it feel like it’s all up to chance instead. Because even though you are gradually unlocking new characters, coins, prizes, and such via hitting milestones, the very nature of it means that builds might end up feeling meaningless unless factors outside of your control align. It will still be fun, but it means accepting how little influence you can exert over each run.

While Octopath Traveler 0 scratches the JRPG itch in some satisfying ways, I found it often never feels as captivating as the first two games. Our protagonist doesn’t feel as connected to events as the companions for the campaign quests, even with what happened to Wishvale. The heroes from Octopath Traveler 1 and 2 get stronger stories. I miss being able to play around with character builds like I did in past games too. The town building element is fantastic, constant access to all Path Actions is handy, and the eight-character party in battles allows for some fun strategic options. But I do hope the next entry in the series is more like Octopath Traveler 1 and 2 than 0.

The thing about Gnosia is it is incredibly compelling. Perhaps even frustratingly so. It is a game where I wanted to know what was going on. Even when it became repetitive or I got tired of loops with no real progression, I couldn’t look away. I had to play one more round to level up a stat again. One more chance to see if that would unlock another missing profile detail for a character I liked. An extra run, because really it might only take fifteen minutes anyway. There are a few issues that keep it from being perfect, but I’ll keep coming back to search for answers.

If there's one thing Harmonix always gets right, it's the vibe. Whether it's Rock Band or Dance Central, Super Beat Sports or DropMix, the studio's games feel distinct and cool from the jump. Fuser, Harmonix's latest work, is no exception.

So far though, I’ve liked what I’ve seen in Wildfrost. I’m a big fan of how cute the art is in this otherwise brutal game. Plus, it was really easy to just pick up and play. But I wish that the game allowed me to refresh my options in the beginning or made expanding Snowdwell feel a bit more rewarding. I enjoyed unlocking new cards, but there was never much fanfare. I also wished I could use leftover bling instead of accomplishments to add more cards to the hub. You really needed to get lucky with RNG to get the necessary cards. Nonetheless, Wildfrost is a game as beautiful, cruel, and cold as its sunless environment. Players going in will have to prepare to sink hours into building their dream deck… and punching their pillow.

While Granblue Fantasy Relink may not have the most interesting story, the narrative serves it’s purpose, with the best bits being the combat and post-game. It’s a more than sufficient action RPG that will give players enough to chew on to keep them entertained for at least upwards of 40 hours if they choose to really engage with everything the game has to offer. I know I’m going to keep playing it on and off for at least the next few months.

Whether you’re a Moomin master or novice, Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a relaxing game to re-ignite your passion for the outdoors. The game itself is not difficult—a kid could beat it within a day—and it’s not very long either. Despite the game being a bite-sized adventure, it feels like one that’ll stay with you for a very long time.

I will admit Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising is not for everyone. It isn’t for me, as the sometimes filler-like content bloats the experience but, ultimately, feels bland. But the positive is some fighting game fans or existing Granblue Fantasy fans may enjoy this title. It has some solid accessible features. But, unless you played the first game, you should probably check out the free version and see if it is up your alley first.

Appreciating Symphony of War takes some adjustment to its production values, but our 50 hours with the game were largely a joy. It’s built for those who delight in fiddling with systems and tweaking squad builds, and its combination of ideas offers a distinct tactical experience.

I really appreciate Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure and everything it sets out to do, as the concept is great, the story fun, and some puzzles thought-provoking. I just wish that it wasn’t so rushed, concepts were better explained, and that new puzzle elements weren’t abandoned as swiftly as they are introduced. You don’t get time to appreciate all that Jemma can do or the situations around her, and you’re left to stumble into new abilities or possibilities. If there had been a few more puzzles and framework, it’d been a stronger game.

Those looking for a solid tactical RPG to dig their teeth into will find it with Jagged Alliance 3. But while you may acclimate to the slightly unhelpful UI, the combat barks and general writing can be more difficult to ignore. There’s going to be a good amount of replay value in different builds, trying different options and choices, and of course different combinations of the 36-odd mercenary characters. But whether you want to spend more time in this setting will depend entirely on how much you can listen to a Ice Williams talk about popping caps in people.

Ultimately, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is a decent enough entry point for those looking to get into the series. However, it is hindered by the inability to remap controls and the implementation of a poor secondary control scheme. That being said, it couldn’t exist any in any other form due to its original release relying so heavily on motion controls. Despite its flaws, it still offers the quintessential The Legend of Zelda experience.

Walking away from Resident Evil Village leaves me with mixed feelings. It wasn’t a game that I immediately disliked, and I can’t say that I didn’t have a lot of fun playing it. But a second playthrough made me more aware of pacing issues, and on harder difficulties the general spike that otherwise feels somewhat artificial.

Goodbye Volcano High is going to be an acquired taste. When it really gets going, it’s a meaningful exploration of finding meaning in friendship and the present moment, backed with a killer soundtrack. You just need to wade through a lot of technical problems and pacing issues to get to that heart.

The Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny remaster is a valuable one, especially with Way of the Sword on the horizon. There are a lot of gameplay elements that help it stand out, like the ally system and how Oni abilities and adventure elements are tied to progression. The quality of life adjustments are welcome as well. However, the campy nature of the story might not be for everyone, and it isn’t the prettiest remaster I’ve seen in the past few years. It’s well worth playing if you love the series and Capcom’s work, but it might not be for everyone.

Catherine: Full Body is about the prices people are willing to pay, in more ways than one. In terms of story, we have to see what sorts of sacrifices Vincent is willing to make to accommodate his comfort, bridge gaps with people around him, and survive. With the port, we’re seeing what had to be done to get it working. If that means a little bit of blurriness and feeling like you might be due for a new prescription, especially in handheld mode, so be it.

I think whether or not someone will enjoy Atelier Sophie 2 comes down to how much they loved the original game and its characters. There are marked improvements from Atelier Sophie. It is clear Gust took what the team learned from more recent installments and applied it here. But it might not foster the same enthusiasm as other installments, due to its focus on certain characters. It might even leave you a bit frustrated when you need to perform certain actions to get needed recipes or run into inaccessible areas because you don’t have the correct “keys” to open those metaphorical doors. People who love Gust and Atelier Sophie will likely be all-in and satisfied to see Sophie and Plachta’s relationship grow. Everyone else may want to wait for the next entirely new entry.

There’s clearly a lot of passion on display here, but I can’t help but feel there is a clash due to the enormity of their ambitions. The end result is a messy, occasionally frustrating and often tedious game that fails to live up to its many influences. Moonstone Island has the potential to be genuinely great, and it’s a genuine that it isn’t.

Ys IX had a lot of potential to clean up everything Ys VIII did wrong with the series, but instead, the developers decided to double-down on those previous decisions. At least in Ys VIII, the hideout where Dogi hangs out and the tower defense elements to protect it make some sense. In Ys IX, the hideout feels forced, and the tower defense element for the Grimwald Nox feels incredibly out of place and forced.

Norn9: Var Commons is one of those otome games that shows Idea Factory isn’t afraid to try things, and the Switch release is the best version of it. However, while it is enjoyable, it also happens to be a game that can be a bit scattered due to how much it attempts to do. Some of the routes can be really enjoyable and the whole of the story is fun if you don’t get too bogged down in the details. However, know going in that if you want all the answers, you’ll eventually need to basically fall in love with everyone.

Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is a game that grows on you. People accustomed to farming simulations like Story of Seasons or even Rune Factory will find themselves forced to suddenly pay way more attention to the process of growing crops than before, then be patient since it will be in-game years before you “get good” at growing crops. Folks coming in because the combat seems satisfying will have to understand this is a game where constantly revisiting areas and keeping up with farming will be necessary to make any sort of significant progress. And everyone will have to deal with the fact that the lighting system and fonts will sometimes make you strain your eyes as you try to get things done. It definitely builds into something enjoyable, but it takes its time getting there and makes you work for it.

At the end of the day, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is everything I wanted it to be. There’s classic Guardians snark, bickering, and epic fight scenes scored with tunes from my youth. It just needs a little more polish to make it really sing.

What you get out of Remnant 2 will ultimately depend on how much you can put into it, and how many friends you have around to play with you. A strictly solo player may find the game frustrating, even hostile in places, whereas with a posse of friends it can become a loot-chasing romp through science-fantasy worlds.

A Tiny Sticker Tale is a short and sweet game. It will never get too challenging, aside from a situation where timing and a small object might be involved. The concept is fun enough, and the character direction is adorable. It also never wears out its welcome, providing the perfect amount of time to enjoy its adventure. As long as you don’t go in expecting complexity from its puzzles or story, I think you’ll have a good time.

Time Flies is definitely novel, and it offers a lot of freedom to explore a tiny sandbox for a little while. It does get you thinking about lifespans, which is part of the point. It looks quite stylish too. The only downsides are that it is incredibly short and there aren’t as many secrets as I expected or hoped there’d be.

Olympia Soiree ends up feeling awkward for many reasons. The class system, the focus on getting the heroine married and pregnant, and the information dumps get to be so much. Once you do finally get to a route, the pacing improves, but before that it is just so much to take in and process. I do think some people might end up enjoying Aksys’ newest Switch otome game, as there’s a solid localization and some characters are lovable. But I feel in the long run it will end up being one of the company’s more forgettable localizations, like Period: Cube or Bad Apple Wars, rather than a captivating and memorable one like Code: Realize or Collar x Malice.

Consume Me is fantastic at making the player feel things. Frustration at Jenny’s situation. Joy at actually managing to accomplish goals or get through a lunch session while staying under the “bites” count and leaving no “hunger” sections behind. Relief when you manage to check both standard and optional objectives off her list for the month. Anger when you can tell Jenny doesn’t need to put herself through this, is fine how she is, and shouldn’t torture herself for the sake of other people’s (incorrect) opinions. It’s an important game and I’m glad it exists, even if trying to succeed in it sometimes frustrated me more than Bennett Foddy’s Baby Steps.

Ys X: Nordics is a solid addition to the Ys series, but it should have stayed docked. The ship combat, which should have been a thrilling new addition, ultimately feels bland. Despite this, the game more than makes up for it with its land-based exploration and fast-paced, duo-driven combat. Fans of the series will no doubt want to pick it up for the continuation of Adol’s story and the exciting new setting. And if you’re new to the Ys franchise, this isn’t a bad place to start.

Can a game show significant improvement over its predecessors while further entrenching itself along the wrong path? Origami King certainly tries, making a game that’s a blast to read and gorgeous in screenshots but just not that fun to play. In many ways, it delivers the quality and polish you expect from Nintendo. As a full package and a time investment, it’s hard to recommend.

Tavern Talk accomplishes everything it sets out to do: it has coziness in spades and plenty of entertaining characters to encounter. If you enjoy a gentle ride and the odd tabletop RPG, Tavern Talk will feel like ordering a favorite drink from your regular watering hole. It won’t challenge you, but it might be just what you need to refresh after a long day.

What we have here is a situation where everything true about Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars largely remains true about The Forsaken Maiden. The story is different (and engaging), but the mechanics remain largely the same. Which means what might have been an issue before still is now. I think it did a good job of telling its story and getting people to care about the characters. Its tale builds tension well with foreshadowing and asides. Between its use of cards, its narrator, and aesthetic in general, it’s pretty great at establishing a mood. If you enjoyed the previous installment, odds are you’ll like this one too.

Cuisineer is fun and I genuinely enjoyed my time playing it. However, it constantly reminded me of a game that you’d play on Facebook back during the mid-2000s, or something like Mabinogi. There’s no life to the town with how little you get to know everyone. Though I personally had fun with it, I enjoyed it as a de-stressing kind of game precisely because I hardly had to think while playing it. There were no consequences whatsoever to anything, so there was no need to worry about my debt or dying. Therefore, its simplicity and lack of deeper content may make Cuisineer a little dull for another’s palate.

Pepper Grinder is an action-packed 2D adventure blending traditional platforming with an alternate drilling mode that allows you to dive in and out of the earth like a dolphin swims through water. Switch version reviewed. Review copy provided by company for testing purposes. Pepper Grinder is a game with a good idea that generally works well.

When Astlibra Revision is at its best, it is an impressive action game with fun characters and a story filled with thrilling plot-twists. At its worst, the game falls for the trap of unnecessary fanservice, being too raunchy, and not taking its female characters seriously enough. I wish I could look past these moments, but in such a story heavy game the text makes a concerted effort to remind the player every so often that some characters are only there to be a sexual “joke.” If you’re able to stomach this type of tropey writing, the story has very surprising turns, and the gameplay is fun, albeit its systems can be a bit bloated at times.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land, at the time, felt like a poignant throwback after installments like Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards and Kirby and the Amazing Mirror. Now in 2023, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe’s revival results in an entry that feels like a more introductory experience to be enjoyed with a small group of newcomers to the series.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie, ultimately, doesn’t feel like the most required game in the series. Despite pushing the world and its characters forward into a new direction, its scope is a bit too large at times. The gameplay remains as sharp as ever and the Reverie Corridor is a fun new addition, but it would have benefited more from a tighter story about C and his group.

QQQbeats is an entertaining puzzle game with rhythm elements, but I find I didn’t enjoy it as much as its predecessor Touhou Spell Bubble. It’s great that online multiplayer is present right away, as well as both competitive and cooperative options. There’s a pretty strong selection of songs too. The story isn’t great though, and the selection of characters don’t feel as versatile as the previous game. If you did already pick up and love Touhou Spell Bubble, then QQQbeats is worth your time. If you didn’t, then I’d suggest you start there first.

Dynasty Warriors Origins is heading towards the right path to revitalize the gameplay actions and presentations, but the numerous corners cut in the lore and character roster will sour the experience for long-time fans.

I had a fine time on Snaktooth Island with Bugsnax, but like Young Horse’s Octodad, I don’t feel a need to return anytime soon. And that’s okay, because a launch gaming library definitely needs a pleasant, concise sort of adventure like this.

Wanderstop tells a fascinating story and very much captures the stress, anxiety, and pressures that come from being trying to meet all these expectations and not fail. Especially when you try to stop doing that. However, I often found myself wishing this was a short animated series or movie, rather than a game. Alta’s journey and many of the characters around her are fascinating, and I love watching them. But this ended up being an unexpectedly stressful, inconvenient, and broken sim at some times, and that got in the way of my enjoying everything. I believe there are many people who will love and identify with Wanderstop! I just found it clunky, broken on the PS5 at launch, and far from cozy.

Something that followers of the series will appreciate. It does have it's shortcomings, like it's short, pretty easy and is your standard run and gun game without two player support.

I love parts of Mad Rat Dead. The music is incredible. It looks fresh. Even the concept and the questions it asks get you thinking in a good way. But it can really be frustrating. I think perhaps if the time limits weren’t in place, it might have felt more manageable? Maybe if I could have chosen my inputs, to create something more comfortable for extended gameplay sessions? There are lovely elements to it, but sometimes its gameplay gets in the way of really enjoying the ambiance.

I do wish that it gave people more changes to really connect with the larger cast and experience more side-stories. Roy, Meg, and to a lesser extent Golan are the main focuses here. There are occasional moments when a green exclamation point will appear on the map, allowing someone to pop in and briefly take part in an exchange with other NPCs. However, these tend to be quite brief and even ones with side quest elements to them, such as preparing a hamburger, don’t involve too much thought or offer any reward other than talking to other monsters for a while.

Final Fantasy III Pixel Remaster is an opportunity to play through a missing piece of the series’ history. Some of its concepts might be a bit antiquated, but it’s amazing to essentially have a prettier version of a video game time capsule to finally peruse and learn from. While the UI has some issues, Square Enix did a great job of restoring and bringing this game to audiences that have spent a long time waiting for it.

If it seems like I’m struggling to find anything to really say about No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files, that’s because I feel like there’s really not much to say. It doesn’t make the sort of substantial, storytelling strides forward as the other two installments in the series. The new Escape gameplay works fine, but it isn’t as exciting as Kotaro Uchikoshi games that fully dedicate themselves to that kind of experience and mystery. The established Investigation and Somnia segments feel about the same as they always do and don’t really reinvent the wheel. I had some fun, but not nearly as much as I did with its predecessors. It’s there and feels like a placeholder ahead of whatever is actually next for the series. Folks who really enjoy AI: The Somnium Files and are biding time waiting for the next Uchikoshi project might like No Sleep for Kaname Date, but it isn’t really for anyone else.

Chrono Gear: Warden of Time is exactly what you’d expect from a project like this. It’s rough around the edges but made with such obvious love that it’s hard not to find it charming. It’s far from the best in the genre, but there’s still plenty of enjoyment to be found here, especially for Hololive fans.

The selling points of Cuddly Forest Friends are that it is cute, it is easy for someone to get into and play, and there are an array of different sorts of minigames. It succeeds on all three fronts. The pacing does force you to follow a certain sort of schedule, which might be a bit slow or restrictive for experienced players. Still, that will probably work well for beginners and younger players. For those looking for a more relaxed title or game for kids, it could feel like coming home to fluffy friends. For the sort of game that it is, it handles the concept and material very well.

Ultimately, the System Shock remake doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t need to. The original game already revolutionized the shooter and immersive sim genre back in 1994. Nightdive Studios’ take gives one of the most influential games ever made a fresh coat of paint, tweaking the formula and pacing subtly while adding some quality of live improvements. For those that were too intimidated by the original, this is a fantastic way of playing it. While the few, but substantial, differences might be divisive among returning fans, the System Shock remake does a great job of informing new players of why the game was so impressive in 1994 and proves that it remains impressive in 2023.

Ultimately, whether Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is for you will depend on how much you liked the first game. As much as it builds on the first game in terms of size and scope, it doesn’t feel like it’s going in any new direction. It’s more of what was good about the last game, a second helping of a meal you already know you like. That’s not to damn it with faint praise, it’s an enjoyable game with a lot of content, but there’s no new angle that the previous game didn’t cover already. Add to that the technical instability and it’s hard to recommend this over Fallen Order unless you’ve already beaten that and want more.

It’s hard to evaluate Gaiden as a standalone game. And that’s because it isn’t? Sega took what could have been a flashback chapter in Infinite Wealth and tacked on some extras. Remembering this context while you play is to the game’s benefit, too. A brief vacation into the old battle style, with some minigames along the way? Yeah, it’s fun for that. It’s not a destination to itself, and it genuinely couldn’t be with all its stale re-treads. But hey, it’s nice to see Kiryu again.

Lego Voyagers is a visually gorgeous game and generally pleasant, but I wish it controlled better and involved more challenging scenarios. There are some fun ideas here, and the design concepts are solid. It is absolutely cute. I’d even say it can be a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. But the constant locking in while platforming, ease of difficulty, and few opportunities to really do more in the space can be discouraging.

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a bite-sized adventure and decent enough 2D action game that will keep players entertained during its short playtime. While it isn’t overly mechanically complex, mastering its magic system is rewarding. However, those looking for a more substantial story which remains consistent with Riot Games’ previous lore concerning Sylas may feel a bit underwhelmed or disappointed.

I appreciate the gimmick and the talent Sassy Chap pulled together for Date Everything. The character designs are inventive and look fantastic. It’s entertaining, especially when it discusses not-Amazon and AI. My issue is I really didn’t want to talk to all of these characters. At most, I wanted to see the full storylines for like 1/10th of them. But because it doesn’t feature typical visual novel quality of life features and basically forces you into conversations with cast members, you’ll be stuck getting to know folks even if you don’t want to. Especially when it gets into the evening in-game and things get to be difficult to see.

I love the concept behind Everdeep Aurora, as the design direction is flawless, but it can also be quite a cumbersome game. The lack of quality of life features really hurt it. If there were some tutorials or perhaps a better save system, I’d feel a lot more comfortable recommending the game. But as is, I’d really only recommend it if you enjoy savoring in-game aesthetics and really meandering through a world working out everything on your own.

Easy Delivery Co might not be for everyone, but it can be a surprisingly soothing and occasionally unsettling driving delivery diversion. It can be a very tedious game, for sure. And the way the story is told might not hook everyone. But some folks might find it relaxing, and the design choices are handled well. If it clicks with you, I bet you’ll spend a good week with it.

Since I tossed my scale ages ago for mental health reasons, I don’t know the effect Fitness Boxing feat Hatsune Miku has on my weight or my waist line. I certainly feel better though! Compared to Ring Fit, it’s way easier to boot up, so I’m less tempted to skip a day or two out of sheer laziness. Though my review ends here, my fitness journey has only just begun.

I really think if Sympathy Kiss had given us an actual protagonist, instead of a blank slate (literally) with no lines (or face), we’d be kicking off 2024 with possibly my pick for Best Otome Game of the Year. I really like the premise. The characters are good and look amazing. The idea of picking between love or your job is novel as well. But I had trouble connecting with it, and I suspect others might too.

Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection feels like an educational preservation effort, but one that isn’t 100% ready at launch. The fundamentals are here. The insightful elements acting as a documentary offering insight into the series is ready. Some of the extra features work well, and there’s an admirable number of games. However online isn’t really ready yet and there are some bugs that need to be stomped out.

Blue Reflection: Second Light is pretty much exactly what I expected Blue Reflection 2 to be. It’s a very relaxed sort of RPG. Even though there are mysteries to solve and danger, I didn’t feel pressured. Rather, I felt encouraged to talk with people around me and take my time as I crafted, explored, and fought through its world. But also, I feel like I came into it with the best mindset. I played the original game and watched Blue Reflection Ray. People who aren’t as into Gust games and everything they entail—which can involve crafting, gathering, and perhaps sometimes a slower pace than other RPGs—might not be as into it. But those familiar with Gust’s work or perhaps looking for a new adventure after Atelier Ryza might want to, at the very least, check out the demo.

Mary Skelter as a series is good at surprising players. In many ways, Mary Skelter Finale is something of a grand finale that takes time to review what worked for the series. It can be difficult, punishingly so if you happen across a Nightmare as multiple characters are about to lose control. It can be incredibly dark, albeit with glimmers of hope. At the same time, it can also go overboard. The pacing issues and story direction resulted in times when Mary Skelter Finale made me believe the series peaked at Mary Skelter 2. Still, its Jail is a dungeon worth diving into.

Cats may enjoy leaping into boxes, but solving this game requires you to jump out. Flexible thinking and imaginative creativity are the keys to success in Nine Noir Lives.

Minami Lane is the sort of game that is perfect for people-watchers. It’s leisurely. Meeting criteria for missions is never taxing. There are no penalties for taking your time. It’s just a short, relaxing experience that lets you feel like you’re helping to make a small town better.

It took us some real adjustment to accept Mario & Luigi: Brothership for what it is, but once you do, there’s genuine enjoyment to be found here. You have to learn to follow its pace and accept its shortcomings, because it won’t change its ways and blossom into a top-tier Mario RPG. Still, the ride will be worth it for some to experience its bright points.

A nice diversion from other taxing games. It also makes a great mini game for the road, but if you're looking for something that will last for over 20 hours look for another game. [JPN Import]

The problem with the game isn't the level design or the gameplay both are brilliant. It is just that the game is too much of the same. [JPN Import]

Its unique combination of action RPG with puzzle solving works to provide a really fun and mentally stimulating experience. However, it being in between these two genres can be unsatisfying for certain players.

I wish I could recommend Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus more. Its presentation is immaculate and when the game is focused on combat, it’s incredibly satisfying. But the inconsistencies that drag down the platforming segments sour the whole experience.

Yeo created a beautiful and meaningful game in Fading Afternoon. It’s an interesting experience, and it can feel different from one run to another depending on your decisions. The problem is that some decision directions get in the way of it all, making it occasionally uncomfortable or inconvenient. Still, I’d say it is worth the trouble.

In a way, there’s a charm that comes from starting a Metroidvania like Ariana and the Elder Codex, knowing it’s a fine, solid experience. It’s not earth shattering. It doesn’t redefine the genre. You’ll clearly see what you need to do and know what’s coming. Still, it’s entertaining for what it is and while it lasts, and that’s okay.

Like its predecessor, The Caligula Effect 2’s greatest sin is that it is entirely average. The soundtrack is incredible, to be certain. Progress is clear, given that the dungeons work so much better. The general story feels stronger as well. But the supplemental elements, generic enemies, and need to only take advantage of the tactical parts of battle when facing bosses leave it feeling a bit lackluster. It’s fine and even has its moments, but I suspect only FuRyu fans or people who loved other games in the series will really connect with it.

The concept behind Million Depth and its approach to runs and different timelines is fascinating. It feels really different than other roguelikes. The downside is that the experience sometimes doesn’t feel polished. Some elements aren’t explained well, the UI isn’t the best in its complex situations, and there are still some bugs here. But I feel like it is worth it even when it isn’t at its best just yet, and after a few patches it should be in a great place.

Is it fair to compare indie project Melatonin to the big-studio polish of Rhythm Heaven? Perhaps not. It doesn’t quite reach those heights, but what it manages is well-executed. And, well, it’s not exactly like we’re getting flooded with games in the genre right now! So we’ll appreciate the oasis in the desert.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is generally fine, but I found it a less exciting remake than the ones for Yakuza 1 and 2. There are certain narrative and design decision elements that left me feeling the remaster of this could be more enjoyable sometimes. And while the Yoshitaka Mine storyline does offer some insights, the enjoyment someone would get out of it is really dependent on how much the player likes that particular character. In short, it’s a situation in which the remake does offer some benefits like quality of life combat adjustments and greater reach, but doesn’t totally replace the original game or remaster.