While Silent Hope does rely in a very specific sort of routine that may (or may not) click with a player, I had a lot more fun with it than I expected. It was really satisfying to go on excursions into the Abyss. So much so that I got caught up in making sure my Caster and Farmer felt “right” to use, rather than focused on progression and heading deeper for a while. That said, it is a very repetitive game that relies on a certain kind of feedback loop, and those who don’t get invested probably won’t learn all of the game’s secrets.

Rhapsody: Marl Kingdom Chronicles allowed me to check out and rectify a glaring hole in my PS1 JRPG history. The story of Kururu, her mom Cornet, and the other colorful characters from this kingdom is a charming, but highly simple one. Though the gameplay and combat is a bit too simple at times, there’s no denying the catchy Japanese songs and cheery environments kept me playing in both games.

Though Alice Gear Aegis CS Concerto of Simulatrix won’t wow mecha fans with its storytelling, its substantial content base and appealing characters make it a pleasant distraction, and a showcase for top-notch mecha musume designs.

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.

Disney Illusion Island is a game where I can remember specific quips from characters and story beats, but actual adventuring runs together. It entertaining and well-paced, but doesn’t stick with me in the way something like Rayman Origins or Kirby Star Allies did. It is clever in its way though, and someone who runs through it alone or with friends will definitely have a pleasant time being a “hero” with Mickey and his friends. Especially since it’s more challenging than I expected in a good way, even if some enemies do get in some cheap hits in certain situations.

I feel like there is a lot to love about Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. There truly is an amazing world to get lost in and forget about the rest of the game. However, it seems like that may be what the developers did. The team went full tilt on aesthetics and worldbuilding, and nailed it. However, the monotony of the combat and many quests takes away from the overall experience. So no, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora isn’t a soulless Far Cry clone. There is love and care put into recreating James Cameron’s world. However, once the awe of wandering Pandora eventually wears off, you’re left with a game that doesn’t have as much going on as it should in a world this vast and alive.

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.

It’s not like there aren’t any genuinely emotional moments in Grandia 3, but they’re balanced out by all of the cornball cheesiness. Still, if you can forgive this, and are up to the challenge of the battle system, then Grandia 3’s sprawling worlds are well worth adventuring through. [JPN Import]

Goat Simulator 3 is exactly what you expect from a game dedicated to celebrating parodies, exploring the weirdness of game physics, and running around the world as a “chaotic good” or “chaotic evil” goat. It can be a lot of fun! Sometimes, it can break! I still see pop-in issues after the day one patch and find myself getting stuck. Still, even when it isn’t perfect, it’s a good time. It manages to be irreverent, but simultaneously irrelevant and relevant.

The thing about Slitterhead is that the main conceit of the possession mechanic is innovative. However, the story and one-note nature bog it down. Siren had a similar method of storytelling, in that it presented a comprehensible plot yet left enough things ambiguous that to this day, fans still discuss and debate on the finer details. The problem with Slitterhead, in my opinion, is that the story isn’t so gripping that it would have that kind of impact on the playerbase. I do really enjoy how the game feels and I’m still excited for future projects from Bokeh Game Studio though. This was a really cool debut from the studio. Despite its cult classic status and passionate fanbase, Siren got pretty middling reviews from critics at launch, so time will tell if Slitterhead is exonerated in the same way.

Ultra Kaiju Monster Rancher does a good job of infusing Ultraman essence into an established series, all without potentially putting people off of it. Things are handled well, and the kaiju are fun to collect and train even if you aren’t aware of their backstories.

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.

Gothic Murder: Adventure that Changes Destiny is the sort of adventure game you play when you need a break between massive games. It’s a reprieve that will make you think, but isn’t terribly taxing. Its story is also interesting enough, with a heroine who exhibits both common sense and intelligence.

Even though some of its tasks get repetitive, I can’t get over the joy that playing Everyday Today’s Menu for Emiya Family brings me. In a time when “wholesome” is thrown a lot to describe things, it… is genuinely that. You’re sitting down with (virtual) people you’ve known and loved for years to talk, make a meal with them, and enjoy each other’s company. It has that same sort of feel good quality as Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood does.

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.

As a package The Nightmare of Druaga offers a spin on the RPG and action RPG genres. Druaga offers plenty of monster slaying, treasure hunting and dungeon exploring.

La Storia Della Arcana Famiglia Rinato is such a dynamic, thrilling, and even funny otome game from HuneX and Dramatic Create.

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.

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.

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.

On the whole, I enjoyed Process of Elimination. The story kept me guessing like a good mystery should and it had some brilliant ideas. However, my frustrations with it all came from feeling it could have pushed those ideas into even more exciting territory. Mystery enthusiasts will definitely find something to love here. But those looking for a meaty strategy experience may feel a little disappointed.

While Amnesia: Rebirth is mechanically the same as Dark Descent and Machine for Pigs, it is ultimately the narrative that sets it apart.

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]

Being a free game with a small roster and beginner-friendly slant, I can see Idol Showdown being a great entry point into fighting games for Hololive VTuber fans. If fighting game veterans, attracted by the allure of rollback netcode, end up endeared to the characters, then the game could serve as a nice gateway between the two communities. Those outside those camps may find its appeal limited, but such is the nature of games targeted at such a specific crossover of audiences. Despite that, Idol Showdown is a worthy addition to the growing list of Hololive fan-games that stand on their own merits.

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is a magical, transformative experience under ideal conditions that works way better than you’d think. When you stray from those conditions even a little, though, it deteriorates rapidly. It’s destined to provide dozens of hours of entertainment for some home-bound players and not last an evening with others. It’s a big step forward for this weird blend of augmented reality tech, while also showing the limitations it has yet to overcome.

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.

B-Project Ryusei Fantasia is one of those games that is ideal for what it is for those who are aware of B-Pro and the many projects tied to the series. If you “get” it, you’ll love how it handles things and the chance to more closely interact with your favorite characters. For those who aren’t aware of this Mages project, the entry barrier is pretty high! Not impossibly so. I think it feels like PQube was aware of this and released the demo so early ahead of launch as a result to help people prepare. For those who love the series, it’s a lot of fun. I do think people curious about it should give the free trial and anime a chance, as both would really help you when it comes to deciding to pick it up.

Aside from these grievances, Doraemon Story of Seasons: Friends of the Great Kingdom is an incredibly fun and relaxing game. If I had played it without a deadline, perhaps the interruptions for the cutscenes might not have been such a big deal. The storybook aesthetic is pleasing to the eye, and some of the locales — especially the Observatory — are breathtakingly beautiful. Leave the napping to Noby; this is a farming sim that enthusiasts of the genre absolutely cannot sleep on.

Even if Tempest is one of those Switch otome games that dares to be different, in terms of its gameplay, story, and tone. I appreciate what it does, even if that does mean I needed to spend a lot of time with it to unlock routes and endings. It’s just a shame that I encountered so many crashes. I spend more time saving to ensure I wouldn’t lose progress than I did making sure trials went as planned. Still, it is fascinating and a good addition to the system’s library.

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.

Ikenfell is definitely a game worth experiencing if someone appreciates any of its parts. Like RPGs with unusual battle systems? It has that. Love chiptune soundtracks or the music from Steven Universe? Stop on by. Appreciate the idea of a life as a student at a magical academy where things are surprisingly hazardous? This is a good alternative! Not to mention, it’s a very inclusive game that can be comedic, dramatic, and heartfelt. There are some hiccups, sure, but it’s generally satisfying.

While Otome Daoshi: Fighting for Love’s story isn’t as exciting as I expected a martial arts otome game to be, there are some romantic routes here. Playing it safe isn’t a bad thing, though it does mean it might feel a little more predictable than other titles in the genre. I wish it featured some quality of life titles from other Otomate titles. However, the way it does go with the theme and include the same sort of ambiance and elements as martial arts anime and manga is a nice touch.

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 adore the Tiny Garden aesthetics. It’s such a charming little sandbox. Frankly, it made me wish I still owned some of my old Polly Pocket sets. You know, the more detailed ones from the 90s that ended up more intricate than the ones being sold today. There are some times when it isn’t exactly user-friendly, and I do wish the demo was still present in case others experienced the issue getting it to run that I did. But it’s definitely a cozy way to relax.

Despite some rough edges and some undercooked mechanics, Idol Manager remains a unique game and a fascinatingly novel take on the idol industry. If you’re a fan of business sims with a taste for interpersonal affairs? Get ready to become producers.

The gameplay itself is fun in moderate doses.

The Quintessential Quintuplets: Five Memories Spent With You is a nice cherry on top of the cake for fans of the series. It is very rewarding being able to play a Quintessential Quintuplets story that focuses on seeing the relationship between Futaro and the chosen Nakano sister flourish. While the game doesn’t present original mechanics or ideas like its predecessor does, there is a lot to enjoy here, and a lot of content and attention given to each character.

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.

I love the concept behind Exhausted Man and feel like it is a genuinely clever game, but the nature of some of the tasks mean it’s best played in short bursts. Going into too many challenges at once, especially if you end up with a forced task or one that ends up being more annoying than expected, might even feel a bit stressful. Still, the concept is sound and I do recommend it! Just take your time and don’t rush.

BlazBlue Entropy Effect X is a generally sound roguelike with lots of references to the fighting game series. The story could be better, but at least this time around it feels more directly tied to BlazBlue. I did encounter some issues on the Switch, but they also seemed like problems that could be patched out along the way. If you’re into games like Dead Cells and Astral Ascent, it’s certainly worth a look.

Foamstars is a mixed bag of a game. The gameplay is fun, elevating itself above the inevitable Splatoon comparisons and doing something interesting with the concept. But the bland aesthetics and aggressive monetization are huge turn-offs that prevent this from fully reaching its potential.

I’d say Grim Guardians: Demon Purge is a good snack for people who enjoy Inti Creates titles, the Bloodstained: Circle of the Moon spin-offs, or games that are Metroidvania-adjacent. It’s a brief diversion, which isn’t a bad thing! In a world where so many games can be 20-40 hours long, sometimes I want something silly and fun that will keep me busy for one or two evenings. I really appreciated what Inti Creates accomplished with the generally delightful Grim Guardians: Demon Purge.

Gumball in Trick-or-Treat Land succeeds at keeping the Game Boy Color RPG vibe alive. It offers a lot to do while staying within certain limitations. However, those boundaries also mean it can sometimes be difficult to discern your next steps or running into fights you just can’t win at that point. Still, it’s a cute game and Exquisite Laundry Pet embraces that Halloween and GBC aesthetic.

Ultimately? WarioWare: Get It Together! is a fine enough game, if you come in with the proper expectations. It’s full of whimsy. The character gimmick is fun. It shines when you play with a local pal. But its limitations mark a trend for Nintendo. It appears that the publisher’s response to rising development costs is to cut corners on its lesser-selling franchises. With Get It Together! and Mario Golf: Super Rush both feeling a bit half-baked, we worry that the company’s tradition of over-delivering in scope and extras might increasingly be a memory.

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.

Touch Detective 3 is a missing piece of a puzzle that is just as delightful as the previous two games, and it’s great to have the full collection of all three games easily accessible on the Switch as Touch Detective 3 + The Complete Case Files. There is a downside to the release, however. The port doesn’t feel optimized for the console, both when it comes to its graphics and the control scheme.

Simply put, Mon-Yu is an enjoyable adventure and exactly what people familiar with Experience will expect. It’s handled well and offers a lot of strategic options and challenge, if you’re looking for it. Likewise, the pleasant atmosphere, occasional silliness, and quality of life options like easier difficulty and ability to save anywhere make it more inviting to a newcomer. It’s generally a solid entry in a genre that either attracts people who expect specific sorts of challenges or are looking for an approachable entry point.

Demon Slayer Sweep the Board is the prime board game iteration of the series for fans. While it won’t be as welcome an experience for newcomers, it is an excellent departure from the core series. The boards are varied in stellar ways, while the minigames have great controls. The non-linear nature of the missions mean it works well no matter how you play. Whether you have a party of friends to play with or just want to compete against the CPU, it all works better than I expected. It’s just a shame the characters lack so much detail visually.

Over a decade after its release, Freedom Wars Remastered is a competent action RPG with a surprisingly engaging gameplay loop and combat system.

Fishing Paradiso isn’t the fishing game for folks who want something technical or realistic. It’s the one you get if you like fishing in Animal Crossing or Story of Seasons. Which is fine, because a lot of people could probably use that kind of game. It is simple and sometimes not the most polished, but it is enjoyable.

8-Colors Star Guardians + is a novel indie approach to the boss-rush concept that makes players experiment and think about every move. While the humor and flavor text might not always land, the concept is an interesting approach to offering a grind-free take on RPG fights. Those who enjoy plotting out battles who have an afternoon free might want to check this budget challenge out.

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.

I appreciate how The Cabin Factory builds upon this new walking simulator area of the horror game genre established by The Exit 8, as it does really make picking out anomalies feel critical and helpful in understanding what’s happening. The implementation of some story elements adds insights that might even make it more scary for some people. However, I do think maybe it needs a patch or two with some balancing or adjustments to make sure there aren’t situations that might feel unwinnable. But if you do like these types of horror experience, it’s a fun one.

There’s a lot to like about Final Fantasy II Pixel Remaster. It was an entry that dared to be different. Even now, when you look at the series as a whole, it stands out. And with this version, it looks good, runs rather well, and is pretty widely accessible. The as-is font situation isn’t great, but the rest of the game is quite pretty and fun to play.

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.

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.

It’s an unassuming little title, but one that rewards patience and paid attention with some really solid strategy gameplay. So if you’re looking for something that can scratch the dual itches of tactical RPG’s and roguelike progression, Sigil of the Magi is a hearty recommendation.

The Crush House is an interesting game that combines FPS elements with exploration, time management, and strategy, all with a narrative that makes you want to marathon the game all the way to the season finale. It’s a game that can only ever be a game, as the impact of the story wouldn’t be the same in another format. While enjoyable, I do suggest having something else to do on hand. Once the audience gets what they want, the drama of reality TV loses its luster, leaving nothing but vapid and repetitive content behind.

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.

I love the idea behind Umbraclaw and its character designs. However, the demanding nature and restrictions I place on myself while playing and some design choices keep me from savoring it as much as other platformers. The idea of growing stronger via deaths for second changes is so refreshing, though, and people who really enjoy a challenge may relish the chance to see how far they can go without faltering.

Cabernet is one of the more unique vampire games I’ve played, and I enjoyed maintaining a balance of managing Liza’s life while also dealing with more pressing tasks. It helped that some of her new contemporaries are also quite personable and fascinating. I just wish that some of the major campaign elements, at least early on, were a little more thrilling or that the Switch version was better optimized for the console.

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.”

Romance of the Three Kingdoms 8 Remake ultimately did a decent job of bringing back a classic series entry by including newer features from the more modern entries, although it’s still not enough to convert me into believing this to be the best one among the series entries with personal viewpoints. (Romance of the Three Kingdoms 10 still holds that dear spot for me.) But while the Tales event triggers are a highlight, a number of glaring issues in its localization make it rather difficult to recommend this game over the prior entries unless you can play the game in its original Japanese build.

This is a collection that is lovingly crafted for fans of all levels and is well worth a look for a peek at the simpler, arguably more thrilling days of Yu-Gi-Oh! That said, it is missing some of the best games in the series like The Duelists of the Roses and the Nintendo DS World Championship titles, so here’s hoping this collection is only the start.

Tales from Toyotoki: Arrival of the Witch feels designed to keep you captivated by the events of Hikaru and Lilun’s lives as they deal with the odds that are stacked against them. Every win for them is one for the reader as well. It takes its time to show how these young people develop and find their footing, and it’s great when we get to see them succeed.

Darwin’s Paradox can be a lot of fun, but how much you enjoy it depends on how much you enjoy stealth games where dangerous enemies chase you. It’s short and sweet, saying all it needs to in its brief runtime. It can be exceptionally clever, especially in its first half. However, after the halfway point there are some absolutely obnoxious sequences with some real baddies chasing Darwin and a few particularly annoying stealth segments in certain chapters.

Coromon is a game with a lot of promise that builds on the Pokemon formula. Is it perfect? Not quite yet. I’d say the balance is slightly off in many ways. But it is still a lot of fun. It also feels like a solid first step. I’d love to see a sequel that incorporates new types, dual types, and adds more creatures.

Electroplankton doesn't provide thrills as much as it stimulates creativity. One major disappointment is that while Electroplankton does promote art, it doesn't allow you to save anything. [JPN Import]

Crime O’Clock is a novel take on a hidden object game. The idea is sound. It can get a bit repetitive, but then someone could argue that is a general flaw inherent in the genre and not necessarily a huge issue here. I really appreciated the design direction and artistic approach, even if the minigames felt a little unnecessary or simple when tossed in. Crime O’Clock is generally a lot of fun, especially for a quick timesink on the Switch.

What Studio FreshDoh! has done to transform the mobile running game franchise into a fully fleshed-out adventure title is actually really impressive. While veteran RPG fans may find CookieRun: The Darkest Night Chapter 1 to be more on the easy side, I think the game’s translation into virtual reality makes it worth the price of admission. As a VR experience, this is a fun three-hour campaign with just enough depth to its combat and gameplay systems that it will leave players wanting Chapter 2. If you are a fan of old-school N64 platformers such as Banjo Kazooie, CookieRun offers a charming world of characters worth hanging out in.

For people who love the raunchiness of the Konosuba series, there is plenty of that to find in Konosuba: Love for These Clothes of Desire, but if players were looking for something that attempts to subvert the genre when Megumin, Aqua, or Darkness are dressed in a swimsuit or maid outfit, then they probably won’t find that here. This game is fanservice through and through, but it does have plenty of funny moments that will make fans want to see the game through to the end, especially if they can unlock an ending featuring their favorite character.

I suppose it all comes down to The Exit 8 being a surprisingly comfortable game, especially on the Switch, even though it will get you if you let your guard down. I really like how it works and what it accomplishes with so little. It’s an entertaining diversion with great atmosphere that will be fun for a few runs. But I also expect that once you’ve played it enough times, you’ll have done it all and have no reason to return. If you’re a weirdo like me though, you might still come back a few times because you find it oddly relaxing to take a walk and pick out the “mistakes.”

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.

ONI: Road to Be the Mightiest Oni is a messy, yet clearly heartfelt, experience. There is a lot that’s worthwhile here, between the gorgeous visuals, interesting mechanics, and superb storytelling, you just have to wade through a lot of samey content to get to it all. Might be best experienced in short bursts.

Umamusume: Party Dash has the cute horse girls and engaging story of the original game, but lacks replay value unless you have friends or are willing to play against random people online. It’s strange to judge a party game on its “replay value,” I understand. But even if I were to invite a bunch of friends over for Party Dash night, I doubt we’d play it for too long. The small number of mini-games really holds back what could be an awesome spin-off title.

LEGO Fortnite could be truly special with more villagers, better quality-of-life features, and a general sense of direction. For now, it remains a solid but incomplete foundation. It is great fun for a time, but it will need some improvements and additions before it becomes a more permanent video game home for me to live in.

The Quintessential Quintuplets: Memories of a Quintessential Summer really sets itself apart with its unique premise that is part tutoring and life management sim, then part visual novel dating sim. It’s true to the series, given there is still that element of helping tutor the sisters. Plus, you absolutely are earning your happy ending here. I enjoyed it, because it’s an approach we don’t often see paired with likable characters and a fun premise, but the approach may make it an acquired taste. Just be sure you really pay attention to the sisters’ stats and make smart choices.

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.

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.

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.

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.

SaGa: Emerald Beyond often feels like a solid, if not occasionally uneven and awkward, Saturday morning cartoon due to its variety, goofy writing, constant action, and lovable characters.

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.

Still, there’s something soothing about being an observer decorating in Sumikkogurashi Create a Wonderful Sumikko Island. The San-X mascots are adorable, and it’s easy to check in the in-game index to learn about them or jump to focus on them. There are a substantial number of decorations, and we’re encouraged to use a variety due to requests. There are some frustrations here, especially when it comes to gathering or needing to suit the seasons. Still, it’s quite a pleasant, relaxing, and cozy little decorating game that I think fans of the characters or cute mascots in general will appreciate.

I was absolutely fascinated by My Lovely Empress during my first run, when I tried to avoid as much bloodshed as possible and search for a healthy ending. I was shocked the second time around when things got much darker. It can be intriguing, even when it starts to get repetitive, and I appreciated the new approach GameChanger Studio took with the My Lovely series this time around.

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.

Time is this game’s worst enemy. It truly does not fare well for long play periods. Maybe that’s the point, though. Maybe it really is just meant to be the game you pick up for a quick hour of fun before going to bed or getting back to the real world. That may bother some. For me, that realization shifted my perspective and shifted how I truly feel about games such as this. It’s marketed as an easy game for tired people, and it works as that. It doesn’t have complex mechanics or deep world-building. Here Comes Niko provides you with just enough to enjoy the time you have with it and move on.

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.

Pocket Bravery is an impressive fighter that shows some wonderful detail with its combat motions. The varied characters and their vast movelists give you many options on how to mangle foes, and you’ll need to use them skillfully if you’re to hope to win. An Accessible mode goes a long way to making that possible, although it unfortunately does not do much for the empty online modes at this time. It’s a great game that is finding its feet right now, so if you can get past the character art style (or if it doesn’t bug you), then you’ll want to get in on the ground floor with this sharp title.

It won’t be the most challenging game you’ll play, but Disney Villains Cursed Cafe will delight fans of the stories and baddies starring in it. It’s a very relaxed experience. You never need to worry about the consequences. It’s about enjoying the moment with over-the-top personalities and potentially affecting the course of their adventures in the process. That said, the ease of it and focus on prior knowledge of the enemies within mean that, unlike similar games Coffee Talk and Tavern Talk, you do need a level of knowledge or investment to get the most enjoyment out of it.

Sword Art Online Last Recollection is a great action RPG with accessible combat that makes every encounter exciting. While some players may have an issue with the game’s more linear-level designs, the game stays anchored by an emotionally charged story with a likable cast of characters. Overall, SAO manages to streamline the best systems from its MMO origins while integrating them into an action-packed adventure title.

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.

Cris Tales is an incredibly creative game with its own distinct identity. There are times when it can feel like it drags on a bit. It feels like something special. But it also feels like a game that, at least at the moment, needs a little bit more work. The Cris Tales Switch version feels like it is constantly loading for the smallest reasons and might occasionally crash. If Dreams Uncorporated and Syck can fix those issues. it will eventually be a must-play game.

WarioWare: Move It is an absolute blast to play and is the perfect mix of chaotic gameplay and bizarre humor. However, the game’s heavy reliance on motion controls and strict minigame requirements may be a dealbreaker for some players. Ultimately, Nintendo’s decision to go all in on the Joy-Con mostly pays off as WarioWare: Move It has some of the series’ most innovative and bizarre minigames to date. If you can get past the hurdles, this is one of the best party titles on the Nintendo Switch and is a perfect love letter to the long-running franchise.

I really loved playing Picontier on the Switch! It’s a lot of fun, and it does a lot of streamlining that makes farming and exploring feel different than other life sims like Stardew Valley, Rune Factory, and Story of Seasons. The ambiance is interesting, as is knowing that something is off and “happened” while Pico was napping. The pacing could have been a bit different and equipment durability changed, but it’s still worth people’s time and attention.

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.

Ogre Tale is a great side scrolling beat-em-up, especially for those looking to play something with incredible visual charm and style. With a charming story and cute character designs, along with full Japanese voice acting, this will be a must for those who enjoyed titles like Murasama: The Demon Blade. However, the systems in the game may be more limited than most players would like and it is hindered by the lack of proper PC controls.

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Isekai Chronicles is one of those anime games that I’d say is more than serviceable, but isn’t extraordinary. People who like TenSura a lot will definitely get more out of the game than someone who is completely unfamiliar with it. I’d even say for the right price, someone who enjoys the Tales of combat system might even want to consider it. That really is the draw of the title, and it’s fun to take advantage of characters’ unique traits. While it isn’t trendsetting or amazing, it’s perfectly fine.