So then: it’s Mortal Kombat, improved. It’s an evolution and not a revolution, and that’s what fans would have wanted.

With beautiful presentation, fantastic emulation, and the potential for co-operation, this is a great collection for those who have fond memories of the old-school.

A straightforward puzzler that borders on the fiendish as you progress. If that's your thing then iO will definitely be in your wheelhouse.

State of Decay was one of the best Xbox Live Arcade titles to grace the 360 during its ten year life span and arguably one of the console’s best games full stop. This new updated edition is a step in the right direction.

As it stands Axiom Verge is highly recommended, it is a game that knows its source material, has the ability to authentically replicate its inspiration but interesting enough to add its own spin.

Part Time UFO is simple, it's cute and it's a huge dose of fun. This port of the 2018 mobile game comes with numerous additions for Nintendo Switch, and might just be the best co-op title on the console for some time.

Fantastic looking brawler made by a team that understands the source material and the fans.

As a package, Dead Rising 3 is probably the most fully-fledged first-party title for the Xbox One.

A stunning remaster of an incredibly entertaining game, Saints Row: The Third Remastered more than justifies its existence in a world dominated by Grand Theft Auto V.

Small innovations keep Lego Jurassic World interesting - for all ages.

When the engrossing gameplay is combined with the beautiful visuals and satisfying soundtrack, you get a game that delivers in every single way.

While a bit simplistic in some ways, the simplicity of Autonauts lends itself beautifully to engaging gameplay and fun to all who play it.

Shot In The Dark really is a terrific experience for those who can appreciate their retro gaming going pre-Nintendo.

Blair Witch captivated me in a way that no other horror game has ever done before. A brilliant story that is complimented by even better gameplay allows for an enjoyable, yet terrifying experience. It has a few issues in terms of gameplay but iron those out and it's near perfect.

Watch Dogs 2 is a superior game to its predecessor and a thoroughly entertaining romp in a season light on open world offerings.

Dishonored 2 is a great sequel, one that refines the mechanics of the original whilst adding plenty of replay value. It's unfortunate the narrative is lacking but there's plenty to explore and discover in this title.

For the most realistic driving simulation available though, Project CARS is all you’ll need.

Snooker 19 is a great snooker simulation that runs very well. It gets slightly let down by repetitive commentary and be prepared to be bombarded if you do not have a Nintendo Online subscription. Apart from that its a lot of fun and every snooker fan should give it a go.

New Super Lucky's Tale is a delight to play, and I strongly encourage young and old alike to give it a try. Just make sure you are patient with loading screens...

Far Cry Primal is far from perfect but thanks to its historical setting it is a breath of fresh air for the franchise.

An enjoyable journey into better, more dinosaur filled times, that will keep you entertained throughout. The careful balancing acts that are required are demanding without being overwhelming and the dinosaurs look great.

With great gameplay and a funky aesthetic, Tropico 5 manages to turn its dubious subject matter into something enjoyable. It's a pity that it doesn't quite sit comfortably on the PlayStation 4, but it's an engrossing experience nonetheless.

It’s taken them long enough, but the Atelier series is finally entering a space where you would be happy to recommend them to any RPG-loving friend, rather than leave them to that one guy we all know who only plays games with suspiciously young and underclad heroines.

With a modern take on side-scrolling beat-'em-up graphics and a fun set of gameplay ideas, this remake of the classic '80s brawler will take you down a fun nostalgia trip.

Borderlands 3 is a safe step forward for the franchise, but rough optimization, a leaning toward old jokes and a pair of underwhelming antagonists take some of the shine from this otherwise thoroughly enjoyable and beautifully rendered sequel.

If you're new to adventure games and want a gentle introduction that will leave a strong impression, Morningstar definitely should be among your first choices. And even if you're an adventure veteran then you should be able to find something here that will engage you and, like us, leave you hoping for a sequel.

Still one of the best multiplayer experiences.

PHOGS! is a fantastic puzzle-platformer for all ages, combining well-designed mechanics with a bright, enchanting aesthetic. Playable alone or with a friend locally or online, there are plenty of levels to keep you busy, and plenty of collectables to seek out and invest your hard-earned bones in. Though at times the lack of camera controls and collision glitches can lead to some unfortunate demises, the experience is one well worth investing in and is not to be missed.

Not only does it manage to convey a lot of information in a way that's fun, but from the voice-controlled main menu to the mini games that get the child to learn through doing, this is one of the few pieces of commercial software that really clicks with the often-obtrusive Kinect and makes it seem worthwhile.

With a fantastic single-player segment this year's Battlefield feels like a very complete package. The multiplayer adds some impressive new modes and features but at its core its the same old Battlefield experience.

For those who already have the original it may be worth holding out for a price-drop, but that makes this no less an essential purchase, more a financial consideration than a comment on the quality of the product.

Genuinely fun and cute, with a story line and visuals that will keep you enthralled as you play the short campaign.

A hauntingly immersive experience which may not be as exciting as the average game but four years on it's still a beautiful piece of art. If you haven't played it before now is the time to pick it up.

You will get out of WWE 2K17 exactly what you put into it - be it a quick go for exciting ring action or an in-depth wrestling simulator which you can sink many hours into.

In many ways Danganronpa 2 provides more of the same – but what wonderful same it is.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a stunning remake of the original Rescue Team games which ceaselessly captures their magic and emotion. While some fan-favourite gameplay elements have been lost, and the game feels much more forgiving than it arguably should be, it is faithful to the source material and is a nostalgic return to the humble beginnings of Pokémon's longest-running spinoff series. Worth picking up for both returning and new adventurers alike.

Ninja Theory have against all odds created something fresh; a creatively superb and in places fantastic action adventure game. It will not be for everyone and is certainly more mainstream than previous efforts but DMC is a rip roaring start to 2013.

Overall, this first foray into Resident Evil Revelations 2 is a good one.

As long as you don't mind the insane story and the games many profanities you will really enjoy Trover Saves the Universe. Its bad language can be turned off but in my opinion the game is better with it. I don't think it will be to everyone's taste but it's bright, fun and never overstays its welcome. Its VR implementation is very good and never gets in the way of enjoying this wacky adventure. I really enjoyed it and I think most other VR players will too. It's unique and should not be overlooked.

Despite clunky combat and an unremarkable story Mirror's Edge Catalyst star still shines thanks to excellent community features.

Travis Strikes Again delivers a meaningful experience through meaningless actions. Its hyperactive changes of style and fun combat do plenty to curb some intentionally frustrating design.

If you've never played either of these titles before and a fan of the genre they're a worthy addition to your library. Otherwise there's little added to warrant a re-purchase.

From top to bottom, Gigantosaurus is easy to grasp and offers the right level of challenge and flexibility for children to pick up and play.

With a little more focus to its early stages, these might have been forgiven; as it is, as fine a game as Attila might be, it stands more as a refinement than a revolution for the series.

Fruit Ninja VR is a cheap, cheerful, and colourful arcade title that’s great to have in your catalogue. It’s got infinite replay value if you’re a score-chaser, but its appeal is otherwise limited. If you’re looking for a simple title to introduce friends and family to virtual reality, though, or just want a mindless game to warm up and wind down with, Fruit Ninja VR is the versatile multi-tool worth having in your VR toolbelt.

If you’re a fan of JRPGs and have a Nintendo 3DS this is a game you’ll want to play.

Rise of Industry goes out of its way to provide you with options. From its custom difficulties to the extensive research trees, there an enormous amount of replay value. With so many plates spinning simultaneously, it’s inevitable that one or two come crashing down, but no one said building an empire would be easy.

Ultimately, SUPERHOT VR feels more like the ultimate tech demo than a fully-fledged VR essential. Its gameplay is incredibly engaging, and it’s a perfect title to introduce someone to the capabilities of the Quest, but its runtime is rather short if you’re purchasing it just for yourself. There is replay value in the post-game modes, but you’re more likely to relive the magic by introducing SUPERHOT VR to someone else.

Röki is a beautiful tale of love, loss and friendship, taking the player on an emotional journey through a fairytale forest inspired by Scandinavian folklore. If you enjoy challenging puzzles, engaging narratives and collectible-hunting, this is the game for you - but do be warned that the ending may leave you feeling a little underwhelmed.

After a steep learning curve Sairento treats you to a tactical orchestra of blades, bullets and acrobatics. Its a pure joy to dissect each stage while performing amazing feats and killing with style. Its like no other game on PSVR and I highly recommend it.

If you are an old of point and click adventures then you will find a lot to of charm and enjoyment in Darkestville Castle. Just don't expect the second coming of Monkey Island.

Still, XCOM: Enemy Within is exactly what Enemy Unknown needed. More maps, more aliens, more equipment... more content.

The fantastic touches such as bizarre monoliths swinging around to your movement, or crazy bridges taking shape as you step across them or entire buildings being summoned before your eyes ensure Kairo is strangely uncomfortable, creepily crazy and ultimately highly memorable.

Full speed wall running and bombastic action make this very difficult and very attractive platformer an exciting challenge to conquer.

If you’re looking for humour and a bucket load of fun in this busy gaming period, then look no further than Shadow Warrior.

Carrion is very entertaining and extremely unique. Making humans whimper in fear never gets old and killing them is even more fun. I wish some of the areas were more distinguishable from each other but that's a very small issue really. If you want to play something a bit different then you won't go far wrong with this one.

Inconsistent voice acting aside, Moons of Madness nails the eldritch ambiance and unmitigated madness that its Lovecraftian influence deserves.

Loud, colourful, and chaotic. Warriors Orochi 4 Ultimate is a more than worthy addition to the long-running, entertaining franchise.

Runbow's unique concept combined with it's stylish execution make for a frantic, fun and beautifully intuitive party game that features a surprising amount for a solo player to enjoy too.

Graphically, Age of Wonders: Planetfall is great. It features a top-down approach allowing you to view the map at your pleasure, uncovering it as you go. Each race has it's own distinct style allowing you to easily tell the difference between all six and the sheer detail that has been put onto each building, enemy and weapon is insane. It really is a pleasure to look at.

A solid sandbox adventure, lacking in the chaos and madness that the title and license would suggest.

It may be tricky at first, but stick with it and you'll soon find yourself enthralled by Chime Sharp. It's an addictive and absorbing take on a classic formula, with a great soundtrack and a sleek aesthetic for hours of satisfying puzzle action. Just make sure to turn up the volume.

Run The Fan is a challenging and fun pick up and play puzzle game that is more about planning your next move than anything else. If you like puzzle games that test your wit and ability to execute difficult maneuvers under pressure, then this is a great game for you.

A bite-sized portion of melancholia topped with just enough sweetness to make the journey easier to swallow. It’s a cascade of metaphor, both obvious and subtle, that can wind you unexpectedly even as you delight in its beauty.

All in all, Madden 25 is a decent, if not revolutionary sign-off for the franchise for this generation of consoles, and no doubt we’ll see it continue on the Xbox One and PS4. While it would have been nice if they’d played up the nostalgia a bit more (like they did with NHL 14), it’s a fine game of football.

Game Dev Tycoon has a wide appeal to different audiences. As well as being a great introduction to management sims, there's enough to keep long time fans interested as well. It's fun, sometimes silly in the best kind of way, and hard to put down once you get started.

Full of fun and a joy to get lost in, Cat Quest is only a few whiskers short of being the purrfect game.

An accomplished racer that takes the game beyond the track, F1 2016 takes pole position as Codemasters most enjoyable take on the series to date.

An unengaging story and forgettable characters do not live long in the memory and there’s the distinct feeling that you’ve seen a lot of what’s on offer before. That’s because you have - Dying Light is a Frankenstein’s monster, stitching together parts of other games into something new-ish. And occasionally, the stitches pull apart, revealing it’s not quite as fresh as first hoped.

While Star Wars: Squadrons cannot touch the depth or importance of X-Wing vs TIE Fighter, this is easily the best Star Wars space sim since that game-changing classic, and the best Star Wars game of the Disney era.

Old, familiar concepts and designs mix with the new in this worthy re-release. Owners of the original game wont find much new here, but for the many that missed Super Mario Bros. U the first time are in for a treat, especially those with friends or family to play alongside them.

A unique racing experience boasting a variety of game modes, once you grasp the controls and get past the loading screens, this upbeat racer is a great ride for thrill seekers.

Wrapped in the grainy trappings of detail-perfect environments, Creative Assembly have done devout fans proud, managing to create a game that fits the right tone.

A fantastic addition to the base game with great detail in both the story and the visuals. If you are a lover or fan of the game already, this expansion is definitely for you.

8-bit inspired open world crafting and exploration idle game that will surely capture the hearts of both fans and non-fans of the genre.

Entwined blends its gameplay, visuals and soundtrack into one beautiful piece of art that should be experienced by anyone who has the chance to play it.

Warlock 2: The Exiled is a solid war-focused 4X strategy game with fantastic presentation.

Tell Me Why pushes the boundaries of video-game storytelling with its mature, open-minded approach to its themes and its pioneering representation. The inclusion of a trans lead character is vital but the story is a lot deeper than what's on the surface.

All we can say is that if you enjoyed The Walking Dead then you really owe it to yourself to check this out. While that game is a lot more polished and certainly more emotionally involving, Cognition doesn't fall too far short and certainly has much more impressive puzzle design.

Some flawed puzzles don't stop this beautiful, adorable platformer from being well worth your time.

Full Burst is not an easy game to get into, but it’s a fun, engaging and exciting experience if you’re willing to put a little effort into it. For fans of the show it’s a must-have title and while it’s not the perfect introduction to the anime, it’s perfectly possible for newcomers to have a lot of fun here too.

As is befitting, Stealth Inc.: A Clone in the Dark snuck up on gamers and took everyone by surprise. With so many inspirations there’s bound to be something that most will relate to, be it a belittlingly wry attitude, spatial logic puzzles or simply Sam Fisher’s goggles (minus a lens). Try it, buy it and you’ll experience a charming puzzler that hides everything but its devious charm.

While it misses some of the best features from its predecessors, Just Cause 4 is a captivatingly fun experience, with enough new mechanics to be a staple for action fans.

Battle Princess Madelyn is an immensely enjoyable throwback to the old-school that is consistently charming. The soundtrack and the graphics are both a delight and the character design is wonderful. While it can occasionally be a little frustrating the optimism in every aspect will keep you pushing through.

Need for Speed is fast, fun and good looking.

A solid expansion that doesn't reinvent the game but adds further depth to your dream metropolis.

If there’s one thing that’s not in doubt, it’s that A Pixel Story is immensely good fun and will leave you with a smile on your face.

It might not be original but it’s polished and practical; not the most effusive of compliments, but a recommendation nonetheless.

Stellaris is a game that begs you to explore but with erratic sector AI and trait conflicting win conditions it is a confusing and at times unexciting game to play.

A fun start, but there's a lot here to build on.

Overall, Imprint-X will satisfy that itch for anyone who craves a quirky puzzler. What it lacks in variety and moxie, it certainly makes up for with an impressive retro aesthetic and a soundtrack that deserves to be listened to outside the realms of your computer speakers. The story may be gratuitous, but skipping past it will soon reveal what the game is really all about.

Sadly, you can’t help but compare it to Until Dawn which quite frankly did everything better. Man of Medan is over far too quickly and doesn’t have the same impact of Supermassive’s previous entry. It is, however, a short but sweet enjoyable romp which is way better when played with friends.

An expertly crafted shooter with worthwhile narrative endeavours, that’s a little too light on content for the time being.

Sunset Overdrive is solid if underwhelming romp in parts which admirably sets out to poke fun at itself, along with the genre, and inject some joy into proceedings.

For all of its innovative bonuses however, Battlefield 4 on Xbox 360 is beginning to show signs of age. It can be applauded for great water physics and being able to handle the frame rate of a constantly dynamic environment rather well in both single and multiplayer. However, the character models and maps are definitely looking rather blocky and dated, even at 1080p.

This cutesy adventure feels barebones yet ideal for a fun family game and a child's introduction to hack and slash games.

There is certainly potential for The Wolf Among Us to excel over the next few chapters. Core presentation and plot are firmly established, whilst the offbeat world and jaded characters provide a refreshing take on the storybook theme.

Being a budget indie game, at under half the price of a standard release, we can certainly give The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing far more slack than is possible to give to those cold giants at Blizzard, however that being said it is a shame that Neocore have not used their indie freedom to create a game with a touch more originality.