Diablo IV introduces one of the most integral characters from its expansive catalogue of lore to weave a tapestry about choice, parenthood, while transitioning the series into something more resembling a live service game.

Magical Princess is an admirable daughter-raising and stat management game, and it feels like Neotro and Magi learned from the example Princess Maker set. It’s more streamlined when it comes to presenting information. The Skill and EX Skill system also can make it less daunting and easier to succeed when pursuing certain goals. Most importantly, I really appreciated how important bonds seemed to be here. It really establishes the character Alice as someone with a family and friends who care about her.

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak can really only get better from here. Like Rise, it provides a solid foundation for whatever direction future content updates or installments of the series go next.

It’s a genuinely cool, well-crafted endeavor, and the fact that the only real flaws I encountered when playing had to do with its textures sometimes looking a bit outdated, some actions were a little frustrating, and some bugs that should already be fixed in the build everyone will get left me very impressed.

With a solid localization and a gripping story, Anonymous;Code is definitely a game I would recommend to basically anyone who enjoys visual novels or sci-fi. Very few games had me Googling terms and events with the fervor I had when playing this. It simultaneously made me feel like the biggest idiot and the smartest person in the room. You just can’t put a price on that feeling.

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.

Bayonetta 3 is over-the-top in every possible way, and I get the feeling newcomers and long-time fans of the series will appreciate that.

Even though it isn’t a major evolution in the series, Soul Calibur III fills the void of what was missing in "Soul Calibur II" - a deep single player experience.

Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is rather niche, though with a hardcore cult following. But with its updated looks and wider availability, hopefully it will emerge into the spotlight and dance its way into people’s hearts.

An unforgettable mystery to dig up.

Wild World is a game you’re going to be addicted to for years, there’s always something to do if you play in short breaks and wi-fi connectivity increases Wild World’s replay value. [JPN Import]

As an interactive museum exhibit, Atari 50 is quite successful, if with a clear point of view. As a labor of love, it’s filled to the brim with everything Digital Eclipse could fit. Whether it transcends “well-crafted curiosity” status, though? That’ll depend on your nostalgia for a library of games that has some trouble standing the test of time.

Albeit shorter than an average game We Love Katamari is excellent all the way through. If you loved the first game there is no doubt that you’ll laud We Love Katamari.

More than a game that Zelda fans or even action RPG gamers will like. This game is easy to learn, innovative and can appeal to people of all ages. The use of GBA connectivity and all of the extra mini games just fills this game to the brim with replay value. [JPN Import]

It is a huge surprise that Namco has decided to release this bizarre but fun game in North America. It's defiantly a nice treat and at an attractive $20 price point it's worth the money.

Whether you’re a casual gamer with a soft spot for Indiana Jones or a fan of cinematic action-adventure titles, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has something for everyone. The game’s customizable difficulty settings and accessible mechanics ensure players of all skill levels can enjoy the adventure. However, don’t expect to spend hours cracking intricate puzzles and riddles — the Great Circle leans more into its action, narrative, and authenticity than brain teasers.

Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection is just a highly impressive collection of some of the most over-the-top and fun fighting games that have ever been made. By creating easier controls, it allows all of those button-mashing newcomers (like I once was) to hop in and have a great time. With its new practice mode, it allows those of us trying to get serious a means of practicing so we don’t get annihilated by the stone cold killers who’ve been playing the game for decades. It’s just a celebration of some of the greatest titles in the genre.

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.

This is a JRPG that I didn’t think we’d ever see released worldwide about 10 years ago, and now it’s here. It’s a joy to play. As long as you’ve been keeping up with the series over the last decade, it will likely delight you as well.

Sumire is absolutely stunning and is yet another extraordinary indie in the Switch library. It taps right into your feelings and allows you to take charge and perhaps help Sumire and her flower have their perfect day. Or not. It’s all up to you. But no matter what you choose to do, it tends to feel satisfying. And, if you’re feeling up to it, is worth a second or third run to play games with “friends” or try to make the the lives of people (and objects) better.

World of Warcraft The War Within is an excellent start to The World Soul Saga and I’m genuinely interested to see where the story goes next. Hero Talents add some interesting effects and skills to specific classes, which adds a greater variety of how you can play your character, and the narrative, while straightforward, is a lot of fun. The War Within has made me love MMORPGs again, and if Blizzard Entertainment keeps going in this direction, I can see myself playing this game for years to come.

Despite some minor issues and the been there, done that feeling that tends to permeate the game, Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones is just as solid as ever.

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.

I still feel Super Mario Bros Wonder – Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park is a 9 out of 10 game, but the upgrade is really geared toward the multiplayer experience. Especially if you have folks who can play with you locally for the new Luma co-star, Toad Brigade Training Camp, or Bellabel Park stages that highlight co-op and versus elements. If you don’t have that kind of community around you, then I think the base version of the game would meet your needs.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is full of the sorts of complexities and nuances that make you want to double back and analyze the script, lore, and artwork in every scene. There’s so much going on, but it’s handled in a way where you’re typically never given more than you can handle. Rather, it prepares you for its major moments.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom features all of the amazing hallmarks of the series, yet feels completely innovative, unique, and fresh.

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.

Onimusha 3 more accurately represents an action game like "Devil May Cry." Instead of the rigid control scheme used by the "Resident Evil" series, Onimusha 3 has fluid controls. Moving the analog stick around will directly move your character, instead of just turning him. [JPN Import]

Esoteric Ebb is an unexpected delight that pairs elements of D&D campaigns with Disco Elysium, which turns out to be a perfect fit. There’s an absurdist element that’s delightful, but the social commentary also feels quite apt and deep at the same time. The execution of the RPG elements also means that feels like there’s always more to explore, which I appreciated.

A game that will entertain almost everyone looking for a simplistic fun platformer. If you're looking for a game that is epic and will last forever Astro Boy isn't it. [JPN Import]

TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge feels like a time capsule. You can tell going into it that the people at Tribute Games deeply respected the source material. They did their research, both in terms of watching the show and playing past titles. It is also absolutely evident that they worked on similar sorts of games, because it often feels as fluid as Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game. There are a few situations that frustrated me, but it’s genuinely a joyful experience.

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.

Frostpunk 2 is a worthy enough survival city builder sequel. Like the original, it is absolutely stunning to play, though I do recommend against Steam Deck. It just doesn’t run as well and the input controls aren’t the best here. If you have a beefy PC or modern console, this is a real looker to play. With the complicated decisions, larger scope, and new Council Hall decisions, Frostpunk 2 is one of the most elaborate and complex sim games available.

While it may not have the immersive mechanics to be a great VR introduction, Batman: Arkham Shadow is fun to play and faithful to its Arkham predecessors. And yeah, picking off enemies one-by-one feels great.

What I can say for Kunitsu-Gami is that it feels like a game that could have existed on the PlayStation 2, and I mean that in the most positive way possible. It’s experimental and interesting, and I’m glad Capcom Development Studio 1 was able to make this game. The way it builds on the tower-defense genre and gives the player a more active role through the use of Soh as an avatar makes the game immediately more involved and interesting. I hope Kunitsu-Gami ends up garnering some kind of success so that it can show Capcom that these risks can be taken, even for AA titles, so we can see more of what its various development studios can create outside of established franchises.

A hallmark tactical RPG that is sure to please fans of the series and those who like the genre. [JPN Import]

Undernauts: Labyrinth of Yomi excels at providing you with a DRPG that feels fresh without feeling completely new. The high risk, high reward gameplay is incredibly challenging at first and becomes rewarding once you find your stride. I often found myself wishing the game opened up a lot faster and was smoother to play, but those issues feel small in the grand scheme of it all.

The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood is an intimate story about overcoming isolation, rebuilding your future, and finding community that will resonate with many. The game’s card creating mechanics will be perfect for the artistically inclined, and are welcoming to those lacking the skill. Deconstructeam surprised me with the variety of outcomes that the card divination sections offer, and I’m looking forward to jumping into the game again and spending more time with Fortuna and Ábramar.

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 really appreciate how Videoverse does capture the spirit of older online gaming communities like Miiverse. It definitely feels like exploring online in the 2000s, when we needed to embrace limitations and do all we could to work within them. The ambiance is impeccable and really does recreate the atmosphere of a waning console community in that time period. There are some times when the UI and progression system can be a little user-unfriendly. But aside from those instances, it’s a bit like playing through a game designed to feel like a time capsule from an internet era.

Team Ninja has leveraged the studio’s years of experience to make Nioh 3 feel the most interesting out of any game in the series. Being accessible doesn’t mean that the game makes compromises with its intended audience. Nioh 3 can also be the studio’s most devilish endeavor. The inclusion of so many options and flexibility, both in combat and exploration, means that frustration is kept at a minimum in a genre known for its challenge, while maintaining the friction necessary for triumph to taste oh so sweet.

Octopath Traveler 2 opens with the promise of adventure and journeys that show how characters grow and shape the world, and it sends you across a lavish world as you help each individual and, along the way, make Solistia a better place. There is so much potential here, with everyone able to choose how they approach it all. More importantly, it’s approachable, ensuring everyone can appreciate the stories Square Enix and Acquire will tell.

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.

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.

Pikmin 3 Deluxe is an excellent excuse for dedicated fans to re-experience the game, just as it is a welcoming place for newcomers who have never touched the twenty-year-old franchise. I should mention that all of this does come at a risk; playing Pikmin 3 Deluxe might spark a desire for a Pikmin 4 which, judging by the span of time between the release of Pikmin 2 and the release of Pikmin 3, can be a troublesome longing to endure.

Entertaining and frustratingly challenging at the hard difficulty. Could Nintendo have done more with the series? Absolutely. Is Fire Emblem a fun game? Without question. [JPN Import]

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.

Lil Guardsman absolutely surprised me with its detail, depth, humor, and heart.

Blue Prince will break you, but sometimes it’s nice to be broken. Just like the blueprints pun my partner had to point out to me, there is something beautiful about finding the solution to something that was right in front of you the whole time. It’s clear that some technical aspects like the rate of room or items drops, and crashes need to be fixed. However, in terms of draftsmanship, Blue Prince stands unrivaled.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land is, like most games starring Kirby, thoroughly pleasant. It feels wonderful to play, offering all sorts of rewards for exploring and interacting with its world. I also feel like out of all his adventures, this is the one in which all of the areas fit together best into a cohesive world. It’s also quite well-balanced! I do wish some additional series staples showed up and that Waddle Dee Town did more to encourage me to hang around. But it is generally lovely.

Fans of the fourth to sixth Ace Attorney games will be delighted to experience these games again, I’m sure. I was certainly excited to see characters like Klavier and Rayfa once more, and in HD too! It’s also a good introduction for those who never played them before on the 3DS. Now that I’m done playing through this trilogy though, I think I’ll go back and revisit the Phoenix Wright games and The Great Ace Attorney.

While I took a lot away from it the first time, Death Stranding Director’s Cut affected me far more and left an even more positive impression. Regardless of whether someone likes it or not, it sticks with you. Even if the story doesn’t click, the underlying concepts stay with you. And at a time when we can’t easily travel or connect, having this game where you can and make a difference in strangers’ lives online is very welcome.

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

Tactics Ogre: Reborn is everything that it should be. While its gameplay systems may feel archaic in this new age of tactical RPGs, it somehow enhances the harshness of its narrative. This will no doubt make it daunting for those unfamiliar with this style of tactics title. It certainly won’t be for everyone, but remains a tried and true classic. And those who haven’t yet had to experience the Ogre Battle series will be in for a treat. As its themes of self-sacrifice and perseverance against all odds stand the test of time, even if its gameplay may not.

It is usually obvious what moves you need to make in MotionRec, and the fun comes from figuring out how to do it. The level design is executed well, so it gradually ramps up the challenge while also ensuring like the resulting solutions aren’t obtuse or popping up out of nowhere. The design is also quite unique, and the pixelated aesthetic suits the situation and allows you to more clearly pinpoint opportunities. Those who love platformers that make you think would probably be able to spend a few fun afternoons with this one.

If you find the gameplay loop of the Two Point franchise repetitive, then this title won’t suddenly make you start seeing it from a different lens. However, fans of the genre will feel right at home with Two Point Museum, as it changes just enough of the core features to make it enjoyable and refreshing. Truthfully, Two Point Hospital is still my favourite entry, as you can fully grit your teeth into one stage before moving on to the next. But this is still a delightful experience, and if you’re on the hunt for your next business management title, then be sure to put Two Point Museum on your radar.

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.

Shin Megami Tensei V is an incredible and memorable experience. It does some extraordinary things, both in terms of gameplay and its story.

Lil Gator Game is an adventure that ambles along, taking elements from games its developer loved and implementing them along the way. In a way, that might also keep some players from connecting with it. But even so, it is generally a charming and cozy way to spend some afternoons.

Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon is a game that manages to feel both carefree and thoughtful. It is easy to run through each level. You know time is at a premium. You have an idea of what your characters can do. But at the same time, success comes from planning ahead. Being careful and biding your time can be critical. Given that you can be in and out of an area in minutes, it keeps things from getting stale. But that swiftness makes repeated runs even more inviting as you search for answers and secrets.

By the end of it, everything swells together to create something that lingers in the back of the mind, gnawing away like a memory desperate to resurface. SIGNALIS is a game that I will never forget. And I will never forget the promise that was made between ELSTER and Ariane — of their love as selfish and cruel or beautiful and compassionate as it may be — that persisted through endless cycles of distortion and tragedy.

Little Goody Two Shoes’ themes of always wanting more than what you have hit particularly close to home. Elise’s desires are always surrounding you – and always just out of arm’s reach. The developers of this game took great care into shaping this beautiful world to fit with Elise’s characterization. This game is simply oozing with charm. You can feel the love and dedication that went into creating this game at every moment, in every aspect – from the artwork to the story to the sound design.

While not the most innovative game, Devil May Cry 3 has all of the slick combat you would expect out of the title.

Oxenfree 2 is a follow-up that has been worth the wait. If you were a fan of the first game, and I certainly was, this will give you more of what you loved. Like the first game, it asks complex questions about the choices we make in life and the direction they can take us, all wrapped up in some creepy analog horror effects. If you’re in need of a narrative adventure game focused on time in more ways than one, Oxenfree 2 is essential.

C-Smash VRS is a really admirable take on Cosmic Smash that is so much fun on the Meta Quest 3, due to it being a really enjoyable VR tennis that also combines Breakout elements to make more of an arcade experience if you’re playing alone. Likewise, it’s quite enjoyable with others or an opponent. Just make sure you get used to your limits and boundaries before trying to get competitive.

9 RIP is another one of those Otomate otome games that experiments with what we expect from these sorts of dating sims, and it’s a great success as a result. The chance the developer took on storytelling means the love interests get more moments with the heroine and also feel like stars of their storylines. It involving urban legends and some horror staples mean we get some unexpected and fun romance options. Plus, the aesthetic is great. There are a few elements that might not be as appreciated people, but I feel like that comes down to personal tastes rather than actual failings on the part of the developer or game itself.

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.

Keep Driving is about that brief moment of time when you get that freedom to pick up and go. Safety net? You have family. Obligations? You’re young and unencumbered. Opportunities? They’re absolutely everywhere. Each run can and will feel different, as there are so many options and multiple endings. The only downside is, if you marathon it and take multiple trips in a row, you may get bored due to how repetitive and easy it can be. Still, the road is open ahead of you, and it’s a joy to take off and drive.

The Diablo IV Vessel of Hatred expansion has me torn. I love a lot of the new changes, and I really wanted to say that I loved the story, but I don't.

Lego Bricktales really works well in VR, and it is a lot of fun to play on the Quest 3. It really does feel like building is more fun when you’re going hands-on with the headset’s controllers to move each brick and go more hands-on, in a way, with the creations. Plus there is the feeling of each diorama and project being right in front of you, as though you were going through an actual set in your living room. It’s one of the cozier and relaxed VR games I’ve played, and I appreciate this new approach to the adventure.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is the hero we’re looking for. The game takes everything people loved about Marvel’s Spider-Man, the story, the collecting, and the smooth fighting, and presents us with a story that somehow feels more balanced and dedicated to its star. I think it is impossible to come away from it not loving and rooting for Miles.

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.

Dredge not only manages to be a compelling fishing game that constantly urged me to scour every part of the option, but also is a great horror game with fantastic ambiance. It is perfectly unsettling, with things going awry when you least expect them. It makes you want to tempt fate by sounding a siren or using lights while on the water alone at night, even though you know whatever’s sounding a horn back at you doesn’t mean you well.

Chants of Sennaar feels like more than a video game sometimes. Aside from some stealth sections and moments that involved evading hostile opponents that occasionally took me out of the moment, I found myself completely immersed in its world. Every new area accessed was a triumph. Every new word I learned felt like an accomplishment. It’s lovely.

I have never seen so many people not only asking me to make a complete mess of things, but thanking me for doing so, in my life. But that’s exactly what Thank Goodness You’re Here feels like it is about, as the game rewards you for your goofy and occasionally destructive behavior with ridiculous, hilarious, and even sometimes a delightfully inappropriate response. It might not end up being a game for everyone, but those who do give it a chance and enjoy this kind of humor will likely be delighted.

Ender Magnolia is a great time from beginning to end. The sequel takes what the first game offered and gives a more refined experience in a new setting. Similar to the first game, the inspirations in this Metroidvania are immediately apparent, and both games avoid taking any massive risks. However, it is the developer’s own take on these inspirations and the commitment to fun combat and exploration that keep me coming back.

Momodora: Moonlit Farewell bids farewell to fans with a beautiful final adventure that captures everything that made the series so charming and displays the developer’s accrued experience. While the game doesn’t do anything new with the Metroidvania genre, Moonlit Farewell delivers a simple, elegant and polished adventure with tight platforming, fun and elegant combat, and a fabulous art style.

Perhaps the best thing of all is how Spiritfarer builds, grows, and ends. Not only are the souls you helping growing and accepting and your boat building, but Stella herself is developing. The story creeps up around you while life is happening, which is incredibly apt. There are highs and lows, as these moments will constantly hit you and make you chuckle or perhaps cry.

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.

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.

Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2 is an impressive achievement, building in some nice new elements on top of the solid foundation set by the first game. It only makes some minor tweaks, but these add some fun new elements, useful tools, and great tension, all while letting you deepen your bond with this lovable crew. Just prepare to have your heart broken unless you’re an incredible tactician.

Crow Country is one of those games that answer all of my needs for an old-school survival horror title. The game isn’t shy about its inspirations and it is a clear homage to PS1 survival horror games. While it is a somewhat short experience, Crow Country shows that sometimes less is more. And I want more of this.

News Tower is a satisfying business management simulation that involves optimizing offices and reporting procedures to ensure success. It feels like there’s are opportunities to keep investing and growing. It can even be so satisfying that it stays compelling for hours. There are some minor issues and sometimes it might feel a bit too easy or routine when you get used to things, but I still very much recommend it.

Ender Lilies proves to be a somber experience, providing a melancholy but hopeful story that utilizes environmental storytelling to its fullest. As a platformer it functions well and has its own unique gimmick that helps create a fresh take on the genre. If you were hesitant about picking it up in early access, the full product is more than worth your time.

Super Mario RPG breathes new life into an SNES classic, allowing players to re-experience one of Mario's most unique and adventurous titles on the Switch.

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.

Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island is packed to the brim with challenging dungeons. The amount of content available is staggering and will keep returning fans and newcomers alike busy for hours. While the steep learning curve of the series can turn away those jumping in for the first time, the game does a good job at keeping the difficulty intact and welcome newcomers alike. Features like the online rescue systems, Monster Dojo, and plenty of in-game manuals explain the mechanics clearly without subtracting from the experience. I fear that the series might still struggle to connect with new audiences, but if you’ve ever been curious about it, this might be the best time to jump into the Mystery Dungeon train.

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.

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.

Even though some areas are less polished than others, Honor Among Thieves is still an extremely enjoyable game, with colorful characters and enough scenarios that the game never gets stale.

Persona 5 Strikers nails the atmosphere perfectly and doesn’t make it feel like you have to review everything beforehand. It succinctly lets you know that the areas you’ll explore are larger and you may have to do a little more research to prepare, but your team has your back. Granted, it is something that will be best enjoyed and appreciated by those who know and love these characters. But overall, Persona 5 Strikers is a fantastic fusion of what the Persona and Musou series have to offer.

Final Fantasy IV Pixel Remaster may initially butt up against your nostalgia if you have fond memories of the original, but over time, I really began to appreciate seeing its visuals and sound explored in creative ways.

Gotta Protectors: Cart of Darkness refines a gameplay system that was already great, and offers a ton of challenges to keep you busy! And hey, maybe this time, more players will be fortunate enough to discover it.

Reanimal is an ominous, tense adventure that puts you in unsettling situations and leaves you to draw your own conclusions about what’s going on. So much so that it almost feels like the end is only the beginning of analyzing what’s happened here. While short, there are some interesting puzzles and encounters, the pacing is good, the NPC intelligence in single-player is competent, and there’s some great character and environmental design elements at play. A few bugs that will likely be patched out in a few weeks aside, it’s a great horror game.

Planet of Lana II is quite a successful sequel that builds on the original in pretty much every way. Wishfully also tells its story in a fascinating way that still leaves every intention and action crystal clear. It might take some time to adjust to inputs, but it’s a brief adventure with interesting puzzles and a promising cliffhanger.

AI: The Somnium Files – nirvanA Initiative, like AI: The Somnium Files, is simply a fantastic adventure. Its plot is fascinating, and I love how it handles its investigations. It is absolutely a worthy successor, though I very much recommend people play both games.

The art and graphics in Cassette Beasts are beautiful, and perfectly match the whimsical, and at times terrifying nature of New Wirral. Without spoiling anything, the design for each boss battle is spectacular. Likewise, character portraits are beautiful and full of personality. In contrast, the game world is simple and not filled with too much detail, which helps with navigation and clarity. Because of this simplicity, the pixel art pops-up and the art style benefits a lot from it.

NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139 is a more approachable version of an emotional and thought-provoking RPG. This is a game people might not have known what to do with years ago. Now, following the success of NieR: Automata, it’s presented with additional accessibility options, better looking and smoother gameplay, and additional content that gently builds on what was already there.