Square Enix has honored its intention to make the new release order work in a narrative sense. Dragon Quest III served as the original climax of the trilogy, with an exciting conclusion that tied the three games together. It’s now Dragon Quest II‘s job to see the trilogy’s story off, and things have been reworked to make it the grand conclusion it needs to be. Some of the original identity of the game is lost in that process, but I think it makes sense for this project. In a lot of ways, Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake is an ideal outcome for a remake. The original games are still out there, but this release offers such different takes on both that it’s more than worthy to stand alongside them.

Cronos: The New Dawn is a really respectable Switch 2 horror game and early addition to its launch library. While it leans more toward a survival title with horror elements, it’s still unnerving enough to suit someone’s needs. Plus the post-launch patches left it in a strong position. Sure, there are a few elements that aren’t quite perfect, but it’s really fascinating.

Undusted: Letters from the Past combines cleaning up interesting and poignant items with stories about why each one matters. It’s an incredibly soothing and cozy kind of game, much along the lines of PowerWash Simulator. It’s definitely a little more condensed with a more contained focus, which some may or may not appreciate. Still, I loved the pacing, the attention to detail on each small item, and the way we learn about Adora and her family as we restore everything.

Twinkleby is a very low-stakes sort of decorating game that moves it its own leisurely pace. You set up houses. You watch the little folks wander around and use the objects inside. They sing for you when you do a good job and they’re happy. I do wish there was a little more to it, in terms of challenge and available items. It is charming enough, if you feel you need another decorating sim on your slate.

I don’t think Little Nightmares 3 is one of the best games in the series, even though it absolutely looks ominous. I appreciate elements of the tale that it tells. Especially the dynamic between the leads Low and Alone. There are even some enemy designs I really like. It even offers a bit of a lore implication that I’d like to see addressed in the next entry with Six. The problem is that it sometimes doesn’t feel as cohesive due to the lack of a central villain, setpieces that sometimes make it difficult to see what you need to interact with or do to move forward, and co-op elements that don’t feel all that necessary or valuable. Little Nightmares and its sequel feel far more interesting and essential, with this third entry feeling more like optional supplemental material.

Once Upon a Katamari feels like it is as strong of an entry as a game like We Love Katamari. The time traveling element really suits the series. The character customization is a lot of fun. I’m not a KatamariBall fan and think the Simple control scheme option is far from it. But overall Once Upon a Katamari is a great installment that captures the essence of the series.

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.

Ball x Pit is a novel game that combines many roguelike, block-busting, and city organization elements in a way that makes sense. It’s quite clever, and I felt like it was pretty fair too! Due to the way ball fusions work and the nature of characters, it’s pretty easy to feel empowered as you play. I did feel a bit disappointed to find actually taking down some bosses right away wasn’t exactly an easy prospect due to not having build up New Ballbylon enough ahead of time. It is both creative and satisfying though, and scratches the same sort of itch as Vampire Survivors.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A is a follow-up to Arceus that feels both similar and different due to its focus on living alongside Pokemon in a modern city. The two themes are Mega Evolution and embracing life alongside Pokemon, and Game Freak and Nintendo are constantly showing and telling how that works. Admittedly, I miss the more varied biomes and locations from Arceus. But I do appreciate the story, the ambiance, the attention paid to characters, and how much it feels like a real city. After over 35 hours with it, I’m quite pleased.

Wander Stars is interesting and tells a Dragon Ball type of tale, especially considering its novel combat system that uses words to construct every action. The aesthetics are fantastic. It’s clearly a labor of love and tribute to shonen series. The issue is there are some bugs that can hamper the experience, especially if it softlocks and you find yourself losing progress due to it only automatically saving at the outset of every map. A few patches should help things along and I think it is neat, but I do think the execution and bugs might keep it from being for everyone. I recommend checking out the demo first.

Slime Rancher 2 is an entertaining game and does offer a lot to do, but I enjoyed the more relaxed original entry more. The best comparison I can offer is that the first game felt like exploring a cozy area and taking my time collecting slimes. With the second, I feel more beholden to the inventory limitations and as though I’m playing to constantly collect resources to tick boxes. There’s nothing wrong with that kind of grind, and some folks might appreciate that increase in intensity. I do think it changes the general atmosphere and ambiance from the original experience in a way that might not make upgrading worthwhile for those who really loved the first title.

I appreciate the execution in Battle Suit Aces and how it prioritizes characters and stories, resulting in a game that reminds me of Gundam series in the best ways. The card-based combat system encourages investment in factions and incentivizes additional missions so you can build up your characters. It also sends you into battles that can make you think, even early on, so it feels genuinely satisfying when you discover card combinations that work for you. I really appreciate the story it tells and how Trinket Studios told it.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a solid kart racer that I feel I enjoyed as much as recent Sonic & All-Stars Racing games. There’s a great selection of characters and tons of vehicle customization options, which are great. The nature of the Rivals and Travel Rings systems also makes it feel different than similar titles such as Mario Kart World. I do worry the Gadget Plate unlocking element might make it a little unfair when playing co-op locally, and some of the water and air racing might not feel as fantastic as the standard racing. It’s still quite impressive and leaves a great impression.

The Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 remaster duo give Switch owners a chance to experience two really great games in the series. Both are still wonderful platforms that do some really fun and fantastic things when it comes to level design and playing around with gravity. However, I will say they are a bit disappointing when compared to both other companies’ recent remasters and Nintendo’s own endeavors. Plus, I do think the visual improvements and handling of the motion controls/touchscreen components are better in the second game than the first. I definitely say they are worth picking up if you never experienced either game before.

I love Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, feel like it is one of the best Falcom JRPGs, and am certain it will be counted among the most ambitious remakes ever made. The combat systems are excellent. The recreation of the world is fantastic. The script and new localization is great. The story is an absolutely fantastic one filled with incredible moments and well-rounded characters who truly develop as individuals as time goes on. It is a wonderful story and perfect starting point for The Legend of heroes.

Some minor hiccups aside, Digimon Story: Time Stranger is both a solid game in the series and the kind of JRPG that incentivizes experimentation due to the range of characters available. I loved playing around with Digivolution and the DigiFarm to create some exceptional allies. It was a shame that there are some minor pacing issues and notifications might not do as good of a job actually notifying me about things. There’s a strong foundation here with a lot of potential to build well-rounded armies of Digimon to help you face all of the game’s challenges.

The most heart-wrenching aspect of Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree comes when you successfully complete a run. You’ll have to sacrifice whichever character you designated as your Kagura, and seeing your eight dear friends slowly disappear one by one actually hits hard. The theme of sacrifice is strongly woven into the narrative of this game, and it’s probably the most powerful thing about it. If more of the game’s beats hits as hard as this one, it would be easier to recommend. Ultimately, this is just another decent roguelite action game, albeit one with a couple of interesting ideas and a lot of personality.

Hades 2 is a game you need to play. It is that good. It is worth it. You will regret it if you don’t give it a chance and support a developer like Supergiant that consistently gives us meaningful, well-designed, memorable, and most importantly fun games.

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.

Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian feels like a more simple entry, and it sadly looks bad on the Switch.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles remains a fantastic strategy game, and its story feels even more relevant in 2025. It has everything. Hope. Despair. Loyalty. Betrayal. The option to take on battles that put your critical thinking skills and hours of preparation to the test. This latest release feels like a near perfect one for preparation purposes, due to it offering Classic and Enhanced options. I think if all content from the War of the Lions PSP release made it in, I might even consider it flawless. But even without it, it’s an exemplary experience.

Baby Steps is yet another example of a Bennett Foddy game that can test you, frustrate you, and make you laugh at the silliest situations.. The controls are fantastic, so it feels like they never fail you. The types of terrain and situations can be goofy and challenging. At the same time, there’s a message about growth and development that comes through that made me feel like I wasn’t just having an absolute ball flailing my way through strange spaces, but learning more about Nate and rooting for him in the process.

I feel like Little Problems: A Cozy Detective Game is a game you open up and play when you’re looking for a slight challenge to wind down. It isn’t excessively challenging. Going through it all in one or two sittings can call attention to its more tedious elements. Just spend a week or two helping Mary with some assignments at a relaxed pace, and you’ll probably have a pleasant time. But if you do want to go through it all at once, know it will take less than four hours to help Mary resolve all these situations.

Silent Hill f is depressing, never holding back as it puts Hinako through the wringer repeatedly. Its thoughtful narrative, full of moving parts and emotional depth, had me hooked. The suspense and tension so characteristic of J-Horror are tempered by Hinako’s combat skills. But maybe that’s the point. The true horror in this game comes not from the monstrous abominations attacking Hinako, but from the harrowing situations her society forces her and other women into.

I love the ambiance surrounding Hyke: Northern Light(s), as well as the witch character designs. It’s a beautiful game, for sure, and sometimes it can even feel cozy. I just wish it felt a bit more responsive when playing. The different movesets for each character are great! But sometimes, the execution doesn’t make it feel as tight and precise as it could be.

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.

Henry Halfhead is at its best when it allows us the freedom to do whatever we like, play around with object interactions, and enjoy the narrator’s responses to our decisions. I loved hearing about Henry and the constant color commentary. It’s so much fun to experiment! The only thing is that since this can have some physics game properties, some tasks might feel a bit more tedious than others or could involve some unexpected camera effects and perspectives that might involve some temporary discomfort. Still, it is generally delightful and fun to play with for two or three hours.

I appreciate Firefly Village as an experiment into how much you can cut from a Stardew Valley or Story of Seasons style farming game while presenting a cohesive experience. It is interesting. Succinct too! It looks great as well, with some adept spritework. But at the same time, things go so quickly that I didn’t feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment from taking my time and watching my virtual farm and life blossom over time. It’s a charming way to pass the time, but you might not get as much out of it as one of the more robust, larger games.

Illusion of Itehari is one of those otome games that prioritizes building up not only interesting characters and relationships, but a whole world. The lore can be quite interesting, and the resulting motivations and backstories for everything fascinating. I do think this can be to the detriment of some routes however, as the pacing and execution mean that some are incredibly eventful with great revelations and others plod along and don’t add much even if the love interest is wonderful. If you’re fortunate enough to connect with one of the bachelors who is also tied to critical, major events on Itehari, then I think you’ll have a great time with this Switch otome game.

While I wish it looked better at times, Super Robot Wars Y gets a lot of things right and can offer a substantial challenge. There are some stages that will involve actually thinking about unit placement to ensure you handle all those foes and keep from being wiped out. It can look dated sometimes though, as some assets look familiar, and the UI is pretty bad. I’m also personally sad that Magic Knight Rayearth didn’t return and that we don’t see all of Gundam: The Witch from Mercury represented. While I did like some elements of Super Robot Wars 30 a little more, this is definitely another enjoyable entry in the series.

Pastel Parade is such a hit-and-miss game. It’s clear Pastel Parade Project wanted to make a game along the lines of Rhythm Heaven and the aesthetics are there, but there are so many moments and minigames that prove it just doesn’t get some of the biggest takeaways. The repetition, execution of some challenges, and way the actual music doesn’t seem to matter means that, while it looks cute, it never compares to Nintendo’s series.

Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots seems like it should include everything we expect from the series, but it falls short of Clap Hanz’s work. Characters come across as annoying, rather than charming, and it’s a lot of work to unlock them and build them up. The general selection of modes available are fine. However, some technical issues and design choices keep it from running and looking like it should. It’s okay and might be better after a few patches, but past entries were more enjoyable.

Whisper of the House is a truly lovely experience in the same vein as Unpacking, but adds its own unique flourishes.

Dice Gambit can be a creative strategy game, though it is one that relies heavily on luck and repetition.

Hololive Holo’s Hanafuda is a pleasant, casual Hanafuda experience that is great for anyone interested in the card game, not just Vtuber fans. It covers a few different rulesets. Its original Holo Awase option with power-ups adds a little extra flash. It also seemed like there’s a pretty active online multiplayer scene tied to it. And since there are different card themes, you could swap to that, largely ignore the campaign, and enjoy more typical Hanafuda experiences instead.

Varlet suffers from a lack of originality and meaningful activities, and the JRPG relies too heavily on concepts from Persona 4. It’s so bland and hollow compared to other Furyu games, with even The Caligula Effect titles doing a better job of telling a story, offering engaging gameplay, and showing off original characters and concepts. The battles are boring and involve repeated types of enemies. Most characters feel like folks we’ve seen before. There’s no real sense of exploration, as the SSS activities are basic, and I didn’t feel like I connected to anyone in its version of “social links.” Even if you enjoy Furyu JRPG releases, this might be one you may want to skip in favor of replaying one of The Caligula Effect games again instead.

I’m glad Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution is accessible after everything it went through, but you can see its struggles. It’s a fine adventure. It helps build up the timeline and backstory. I feel like it’s just a tad short and features some pacing issues that really highlight that this was a game that ended up being picked up, canceled, returned to, and had these halts in development.

With Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion, it feels like Marvelous is really trying to let us create the mech experience we want and loadout we want in a world that needs us. I feel like the interactions between characters and storytelling are so much stronger here, and because of that I wanted to spend more taking on both large and small quests. I felt pulled into the world even more than before, thanks to the ambiance and lore around me, and the ability to really adjust every part of my mech made it easy for me to survive and thrive. On Switch 2 I will say that Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion might occasionally have a few moments, especially if undocked, but I could see that being fixed with patches and they’re minor.

OFF is an experience worth having if you value the creativity of independent works and RPG Maker games, and it aged relatively well. I do think that, in the years since its release, we’ve seen other games with similar sorts of messages that do what it does better. Especially when it comes to the battle system. But when you factor in its influence, I feel it possesses educational value for those who may ever consider developing their own games or appreciate what independent developers can accomplish.

The story, characters, and gameplay of Shuten Order are genuinely enjoyable, but the translation doesn’t match the game’s innate quality. I’m not trying to discourage anyone from buying Shuten Order. It’s fantastic. I hope it’s as successful as Hundred Line. But I also sincerely hope that a patch comes out to fix up the English script. Blessed be the Shuten Order.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land turned out to be a good Switch game, but the Switch 2 Edition with Star-Crossed World is a great, must-play adventure for the new system. The performance upgrades are a big deal, and they make the game look even more stunning and responsive in handheld mode. The new challenges and levels in the expansion are creative and inventive, and they’re fresh in ways I didn’t anticipate. You really shouldn’t miss this game.

Almost every concern I had about Herdling vanished after about 15 minutes with this enchanting adventure. While I did experience a few technical hiccups on the Switch, these proved to be minor. The experience of guiding these otherworldly entities while appreciating both them and the world around us is magical, even when moments get harrowing. Since I’m fairly confident patches will fix any issues come launch or just after, I can’t think of any reason not to immediately start settling down with Calicorns. Herdling is a magical game about some really unique creatures, and I loved guiding them.

Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar is a far stronger game on the Switch 2 than Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar. The setting feels a little less claustrophobic with the move to 3D and redesign for some areas. The characters feel stronger and more interesting thanks to romantic and platonic events. There’s a wide range of crops to grow and items to produce, and it’s always satisfying to get big numbers on a bazaar day after successful restocks. I do wish relationships didn’t end up stuck in limbo because I couldn’t complete certain requests and I had a shipping bin option, and of course the handful of crashes I experienced got me down. Still, I absolutely love this remake and its aesthetic.

Some minor quality-of-life ideas aside, Is This Seat Taken is a relaxed game filled with generally pleasant logic puzzles. Is it as difficult as I would have liked? No. However, the experience is so pleasant and the concept is so strong that I felt fine with not being really pushed to work out complex solutions. The concept is great. It looks quite stylish. It’s just fun.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater doesn’t make all of the changes it should have, but it’s hard to strike the balance between quality of life improvements, and weakening the original. Konami has drawn this line at the toes of the original without addressing a few areas that were in need of improvement. Delta is still a version of the best games of all time, but without desired improvements it might not be the definitive one.

The Aquarium does not dance is one of the prime showcases of what someone can accomplish with a RPG Maker horror game. It’s quite unsettling and haunting, and it’s quite easy to feel for both protagonists and antagonists as you explore Bianca Aquarium. The sprite work is also wonderful. Pair that with new CGs, a lovely soundtrack, and great voice acting, and it’s a game that deserves folks’ attention.

While I do wish it picked up the pace a bit, Tiny Bookshop is an absolutely delightful and cozy shop management simulation. I really appreciated the nods to actual literature. The ability to feel like a member of the community via some simple quests and character interactions is lovely too. I admit feeling a little stifled in terms of decoration and selecting stock, primarily due to some very minor pacing issues, but I still enjoyed running this quaint store and am eager to revisit it when I need to relax.

I think Drag x Drive is interesting, and this wheelchair basketball game really highlights Joy-Con 2 mouse controller capabilities. It can be fun if you get a group of people who are invested together. Unfortunately, I don’t think it offers enough of an incentive to get invested. Maybe if Nintendo included some sort of campaign, more customization options, or some sort of league features, I’d feel differently.

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.

MakeRoom is one of the better room decoration diorama options out there, offering more and looking better than something like My Cozy Room. The bargain price paired with the diversity of items is quite nice. I also appreciated that, for those who might draw a mental block for their next creation or want to get a grasp on things, there are levels with certain goals and restrictions. I do wish it was a bit more precise or offered more UI features. But if someone plays on a PC, then they might be okay since the mouse controls will be on their side.

In many ways, Wild Hearts S is currently filling an important gap on the Switch 2, as it is the go-to monster hunting multiplayer game on the system. The decision to up the player count for this version helps cement that role. Especially since it does act as a definitive edition with the Karakuri Edition extras and post-launch updates included. However, frame rate issues still exist here, only they feel more evident than on the PS5 and are especially notable when in a group of four, it doesn’t look as good as it does on other consoles, and some effects from attacks or weather conditions aren’t look great. I do think Wild Hearts S is worth playing and is a solid addition to the Switch 2 library, but recommend trying the demo first. Especially if you primarily play the system in handheld mode.

I enjoyed Mado Monogatari: Fia and the Wondrous Academy in spite of itself. I think the characters can be cute and fun, and I’m a sucker for any Mystery Dungeon style roguelike. The problem is that it really moves at a plodding pace, the combat system’s AOE and range systems get in the way of themselves, and the dungeon exploration feels more boring than challenging. I do think that, if there’s a sequel, a lot of this could be used as a foundation for something better. Trim some of the fat, like gameplay elements that didn’t work, tighten up the story, and adjust things to play more like Sorcery Saga (which was great) or the original first-person dungeon crawlers. I feel like the issue is that what’s here is too easy of a game with too cumbersome of a combat system for folks looking for a new Mystery Dungeon type of roguelike, but perhaps too slow-moving and awkward for those unfamiliar with the genre.

I feel like the more I play Pokemon Friends and unlock higher difficulty levels of its puzzles, the more I enjoy it. It’s absolutely simple. Also, imagery aside, some of its puzzles have little to do with the series or characters. Not to mention getting the best scores means playing in handheld mode and switching between touchscreen and standard controls for maximum efficiency. But it is charming, in its way, and I find I had fun with it when I’d play for about 15 minutes each day.

Tales of the Shire sounds like an interesting take on a Middle-Earth game, with its priority on the mundane rather than the grittier aspects of the world’s history. However, it’s just kind of boring, which is a shame since a cozy Hobbit game sounds like it should’ve been a home run. Maybe the game would have gotten more interesting as I unlocked more areas and befriended more characters, but since my progression has stalled thanks to some bizarre bug, I guess there won’t be a Shire for me anymore.

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.

If you don’t already care about Shiki, Rebecca, and their journey, then the Edens Zero game isn’t going to make you, and that’s the greatest sin of all. If someone truly loves the anime and manga, they may be able to find something to enjoy about this action-RPG, but it’s a middling game. While it clearly isn’t a budget title, there are times it feels like it due to combat, performance, and the execution of its story. If at some point in your life, you owned a piece of merchandise with Happy on it or used an avatar of Shiki, Rebecca, Weisz, Homura, or Pino online, I think you may still have a good time with it! You could even love some elements like the boss fights! But it’ll be very difficult for anyone who isn’t already a fan to get into this PC RPG.

Demon Slayer: the Hinokami Chronicles 2 is the video game equivalent of a popcorn flick. We won’t see this fighter on the competitive scene, but for an anime-based game it can be pretty great. It’s clearly designed to be welcoming to newcomers who love the series and want to play through major moments, but people looking for a bit of a challenge might find it in isolated bouts, Hashira Training Paths, or fights with other players. It honestly makes me hope we might eventually see a third installment too.

Mushroom Musume is a whimsical approach to the Princess Maker genre, while still being a game that could get dark or a little unsettling depending on the choices you make for your character. It goes quite quickly and it’s really easy to make things work, eliminate some of the dangers or disheartening endings other stat-based raising titles can present. This makes uncovering different types of mushroom daughters and seeing new events easier. However, I do wish runs lasted a little longer considering how much potential there is for each child.

Super Mario Party Jamboree remains a solid game, and I feel like Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV is a natural pick-up for families. If someone is in a home with multiple players who own both Switch or Switch 2 systems, it could be great for game nights. However, if you’re going to go with one Switch or Switch 2 system for a group session or plan to play only online, I think you might be fine sticking with the original game.

Bustafellows Season 2 is truly a game for anyone who loved the original otome adventure, and it still doesn’t shy away from pairing romance with the kinds of thrilling stories we’d find in crime dramas. The execution is gorgeous, so the character design is wonderful, portraits look great, and CGs are striking. Teuta is still generally a great heroine, and the continuing romances can feel really fulfilling now that everyone is established. In general, it’s a good way to spend some evenings if you already adore these dudes.

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.

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.

Nostalgia for a character like Pac-Man can only do so much, and I fear the uneven nature of Shadow Labyrinth could prove too off-putting. The story isn’t handled well and can plod along, many gameplay elements aren’t precise enough, progression isn’t well-balanced, and the 2D skeletal animation with its paper doll puppets don’t feel like the right choice. There are too many other titles that do what it does better in every way. If you love Bandai Namco classic series, that are some fun references, but you need to put up with a lot to see them.

Donkey Kong Bananza is a constant series of pleasant surprises and shows exactly what the Switch 2 can handle.

Patapon 1+2 Replay isn’t the most exciting remaster collection, but it is incredibly enjoyable and accessible to newcomers.. Both games are still strong real-time strategy games that look and play unlike anything else out there. It would have been nice if, for preservation purposes, we could have gotten extra features like an extensive art gallery with concept art or lots of music to listen to on demand. The few additions that are there will probably make it more accessible to newcomers or folks unfamiliar with the genre.

Given everything that happened with Cyberpunk 2077 at the start of its life, the fact that the Ultimate Edition is here, is exemplary, and works wonderfully on the Switch 2 is something of a miracle. But it is. The base game is great. The expansion is entertaining. It looks fantastic on the system both docked and undocked. It runs flawlessly. The mouse controls help showcase why that feature is such a wise option for the Switch 2 as a console. It even makes motion controls feel fun and worthwhile. It’s absolutely wonderful and worth playing on the Switch 2.

It isn’t necessarily that Tamagotchi Plaza is bad, as I do think it could be fun for kids or someone who really loves Bandai Namco’s virtual pet line. There are just some awkward decisions made that make it a little uncomfortable to play at times. And even if you do overcome that and work things out, it can feel like there’s not too much to do. Especially since you can’t even bring it out as “the early Switch 2 multiplayer minigame collection” due to how few games actually involve more than one person. For the right person, it could be fine, but it caters to a very specialized (and probably forgiving) audience.

Islanders: New Shores is, in every way, an improvement from the original Islanders. I found myself continually coming back to it due to the Boons, new array of buildings, and ability to select my “path” in each run. I would sometimes, instead of stepping away after a run, instead save and then immediately go into the free-play sandbox to add more to the island that tripped me up to make it look exactly how I wanted. It’s an incredibly pleasant strategy game.

Umamusume: Pretty Derby has been blowing up on social media lately, so people who didn’t know about it before might have seen what the gameplay is like through screenshots or videos. The heavy RNG and long career mode might be a turn-off for some, but I still urge people to try it out, especially while we’re still receiving daily log-in bonuses for the global launch. It’s definitely a game you have to experience to understand what all the hype is about.

The concept behind Nova Hearts is good and I like some story elements, but I’m not a fan of its romance and hate its combat. The relationships come across as awkward and superficial, with the script never really providing reasons why I should want Luce to end up with anyone besides “they’re hot.” The combat crawls along, is unenjoyable, and doesn’t feel fair sometimes. Top it all off with some issues with the Switch version, and I’d say it’s best to look to other dating sims on the system.

Persona 5: The Phantom X is a difficult game to recommend. As a gacha game, it’s elevated by lifting so much from Persona 5. But the inverse is true, as the gacha elements have weakened a lot of what made the original game great. If you loved the style of Persona 5 and want something free and casual that lets you kick around in its world some more, there’s fun to be found in Persona 5: The Phantom X. But those who min-max the Fusion system or hate gachas are unlikely to be convinced.

The Red Bell’s Lament is another example of Voltage offering a great otome game that feels different than what we’d expect due to its execution and story. It can be a little light on the romance, but there’s a strong narrative with genuine surprises and fantastic character development. It does feature some flaws at launch, both in terms of some missing translations and actual bugs that might cause issues with progression. However, I’m pretty confident the will be fixed, especially since Voltage made a statement, and result in this being one of the more interesting otome games on the Switch. Once a patch does appear, I think I’d consider it a must-buy for fans of the genre.

While Death Stranding 2: On the Beach can feel like a step forward for gameplay, I feel like Kojima Productions took a step back with its narrative and difficulty.

Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut is the most packed version of what I consider the best game in the series. The story is a fantastic one, and the additional cutscenes present in this release act as a great complement to what’s already here. The gameplay is fantastic, and it runs so well on the Switch 2. Red Light Raid is also entertaining for those who really enjoy the combat system. The English voice acting is generally good, with a few actors feeling out of place or not keeping up with the original Japanese performances, and it is nice to have that option. Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut is a fantastic Like a Dragon game, and I feel itis a perfect addition to the Switch 2 launch library.

Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army is a way to experience a fun piece of SMT history again, and it’s another example of Atlus going above and beyond for a remaster. The quality of life adjustments, like battle additions, fast travel system, and newly added demons, are all a big deal. So is making it all look and sound better. But in a way, getting easier, more affordable access to a great game is the best part of this package. In every way, it’s a stronger game than the original.

I think of Gundam SEED: Battle Destiny Remastered as something of a welcome surprise that we likely ended up getting due to Gundam SEED Freedom and the success of other recent games and anime adaptations. It is not the absolute best entry out there. It is clearly made specifically for fans of the Cosmic Era characters, suits, and story. Still, it is fun and offers a different type of Gundam game experience.

Crude, salacious, yet surprisingly beautiful, SAEKO: Giantess Dating Sim is a fun short story for those who enjoy a fantastical take on dark romance. However, I sometimes wish it would veer a lot more into the themes and ideas it brings up.

Survival Kids feels really generic on the Switch 2, and it features none of the personality of the Lost in Blue series. I think I might have enjoyed it more had it not been burdened by that pedigree. Had Konami and Unity released this as, say, “Treasure Kids: Search for Harmony Stones,” I think I’d maybe appreciated it more. I’d go in understanding it is a new IP made for kids who like the idea of survival games or puzzle adventures, but might not be ready for titles with greater challenges and in-game consequences. But here, we go in expecting a certain type of storytelling and adventure, then wind up with a repetitious, uncomplicated routine.

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.

Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster is a remarkable Switch 2 JRPG, and the core gameplay, mechanics, and story remain fresh and relevant. It looks beautiful and runs wonderfully on the Switch 2. I’d even say the new gameplay additions serve as a better introduction to mouse controls for the hardware than the actual tech demo minigame collection Nintendo created. Anyone who picks it up to go with their new system won’t be 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.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour works fine. It’s totally functional and educational. It just isn’t fun in the same way games like Nintendo Land and Astro’s Playroom are.

Mario Kart World is incredible alone or with others online or offline, and it really shows off what might make Switch 2 special. It’s fantastic in more traditional modes like Grand Prix and Battle or new ones such as Knockout Tour and Free Roam. It pays tribute to past games, but feels totally different and innovative in some fun ways. I do wish Grand Prix felt a bit more challenging and perhaps that Koopalings came back, but getting characters like Cow and happening upon new options with Kamek or Dash Food can be a fun surprise during a race. It feels like a must-have game for the new console, while still also leaving a place Mario Kart 8 Deluxe too.

Kabuto Park feels like the type of game you play for about 15-20 minutes every day for a week when you need to take a minute to relax. It’s never taxing. The challenge is minimal. The bugs are cute. I doubt anyone will spend longer than a few hours 100%-ing it, but it’s enjoyable in moderation.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma restored my faith in the series, thanks to its ambitious sense of scope. There are a lot of tasks to balance in this life sim, farming game, and JRPG, and it feels like there’s much more to do than in past Rune Factory entries. But the same time, it doesn’t feel like each of them carries the same weight, as farming can take a backseat to socializing, exploring, and simulation elements. Village management feels more important than farming and caring for livestock, and heading out into the world or sky to explore yields some of more valuable materials and experiences. Rune Factory 4 is my favorite entry in the series, and I think Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is close to being its equal in some ways.

Minor hiccups aside, Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is amazing. There’s so much to it, and it is easy to prioritize the elements you like best. There’s an endless wealth of content and options, and you could probably spend months enjoying every element. The original Fantasy Life is one of the best 3DS games, and now Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is one of the best titles we’ll see on the Switch and PC. Since Level-5 also confirmed there will be DLC, I also wonder if we’ll see it get even better.

TMNT: Tactically Takedown is a delightfully challenging game, once you get settled and accustomed to the pace. It does involve quite a bit of adjustment as the story gets started. I wish there was perhaps a bit more of an opportunity to be introduced to movesets or experiment as a result.

I love Monster Train 2 now, and I suspect I’ll love it even more after putting 50 to 100 hours into it. Shiny Shoe did a fantastic job of keeping everything important in Monster Train, not disrespecting the original experience in any way, and implementing new Clans, card types, encounters, and mechanics that keep it challenging in a manageable way. Even the addition of a story is fascinating, considering the original only featured hints at the series’ lore. I love what the team did here, and Monster Train 2 ended up becoming as essential an entry in an roguelike library as the original.

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.

I really enjoyed playing Sunderfolk, and I would love to go through a second time with a larger group and different characters. Though honestly, I’d also be equally happy to go again with the same avatar (I love my Pyromancer) and make different choices. It’s a lot of fun, and the nature of its additional objectives, varying missions between the campaign quests, and possible party compositions means it is the type of title that could be worth replaying with different folks or on varying difficulties. Sunderfolk works quite well and I’d recommend a it for a series of game nights.

Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is great for many reasons, ranging from being a means of preserving fantastic games, easily play Power Stone, and reminding people the Rival Schools series existed. The roster of games available is sound, though I’m not a fan of Capcom Fighting Evolution. The online component seemed stable under the conditions I tested it and like a boon for accessibility. Not only that, but the actual accessibility features that make it more inviting for beginners and allow us insights into development via the Museum are lovely. I suppose it’d be appropriate to call this a sensible collection that fills missing gaps when it comes to accessing Capcom’s library.

There are times when I wish the Labyrinth of the Demon King gameplay might be a little more responsive or certain elements a little less fiddly, but the aesthetic and graphics are always on-point. It is fantastic about establishing ambiance. So even when I didn’t feel completely captivated by other elements, I felt compelled to keep playing to see what new areas and enemies might look like. One thing is for certain, and that is this game is a love letter to the fifth console generation.

While there may be some unfulfilling moments in 7’scarlet, depending on the route, as a whole it’s an enjoyable and often otherworldly otome game. Given how unusual its storyline can get and the twists and revelations that come after chasing after certain love interests, it’s definitely one that stands out among other Aksys, Otomate, and Idea Factory works. I’m glad it’s gotten a Switch release so even more people can experience and appreciate it.

DOOM: The Dark Ages feels packed with situations that test a player and challenge them to use every element in their arsenal. Not to mention, it’s also quite accessible and filled with collectibles that make it worth replaying Chapters in its story. However, I do feel like it is geared toward people who played DOOM and DOOM Eternal, with a narrative that sometimes necessitates prior knowledge of the storyline since 2016. Also, the mecha dragon and Atlan mech sections don’t leave the sort of grand impression one might expect.

Even if you don’t count Oblivion among your favorite The Elder Scrolls games, Oblivion Remastered is a triumph and sets a high bar for what we should expect from a video game remaster. While the game will play exactly as you would expect, it looks, sounds, and perhaps even feels smoother than ever before. Given how different the world looks and quality of life adjustments and changes based on Skyrim, it still might feel like a whole new experience this time around.

I had absolutely no idea I’d enjoy StarVaders as much as I would, and it definitely adds something to the ever-growing roguelike genre. It’s compelling, but inviting. You’re given opportunities to learn, but it will absolutely challenge you once you’ve gotten accustomed to its nuances. There are plenty of options when developing your deck, making the prospect of additional playthroughs promising. Fans of the genre should check it out.

While I feel like there’s something lovable about most Breath of Fire games, Breath of Fire IV can feel like one of the most memorable ones due to its story and Capcom’s gameplay decisions. So much so that I feel like even without some light enhancements, it holds up well for its age. The extra work GOG put on on compatibility and features helps Breath of Fire IV feel even more worthwhile, even though using a controller with it can feel a bit frustrating as you first find your footing.

Tranquil Isle is enjoyable and can be a leisurely way to relax while developing an island. It’s a low-key town-building game for sure. However, while I enjoyed myself and it runs fine, this sim doesn’t really stand out. It might not be as memorable and eye-catching as other titles in the genre, which I think will keep it from becoming a “classic.”