The musou genre set in the world of Zelda is once again a success. A top-notch cast delivers a story that feels a bit familiar but manages to captivate and excite. The gameplay remains a bit monotonous and suffers from some balance issues, but the many elements and characters introduced throughout the game manage to freshen things up and provide constant stimulation to the end credits... and beyond.

Misery isn't a title for everyone, nor for those who love single-player adventures - it needs co-op to show off its true worth - but for those who embrace its pace and constant melancholy, it can prove to be a surprisingly sincere experience.

Necesse is fun little survival with light management mechanics: by starting a settlement we can invite NPCs to join it and delegate to them trivial tasks like cutting trees or gathering produce, while we dig through underground caves and fight huge bosses.

Football Manager 26 is finally back, and the effort has certainly been tasteful and valuable. The primary goal was to revamp the game and start from scratch, but obviously the tried-and-true gameplay formula couldn't be completely overturned. The new drop-down menus are pleasant and touch-friendly. All the new features, such as the reorganization of some mechanics, including those incorporated elsewhere and others eliminated, need to be taken into account. We're on the right track as we await patches and additions with future versions of the game.

Simon the Sorcerer Origins is the latest chapter in the saga that's been missing for thirty years, more or less since the release of the second installment, and was likely meant to inspire a new generation of players to become fond of the character. Simon's comical expressions, his impatient banter, and his frequent fourth-wall breaks take us back to a time when humor reigned supreme and permeated games of the genre. It will certainly appeal to those disappointed by the penultimate installments of the series, although, it must be said, we're no longer accustomed to such a crude approach to puzzles. In some places, it's truly overdone. But the sublime technical execution and incredible irony almost scream masterpiece. Almost.

There's little you can do about it: the first two Dragon Quest games fail to offer the variety and inventiveness of the third installment, rightly considered one of the fathers of modern Japanese role-playing games. The remake makes a commendable effort to enrich the original formula, but it can't work miracles: although expanded, the storylines remain simple, and the combat system (especially in the first installment) is often overshadowed by grind sessions and rather exhausting random encounters. However, the additions are numerous and well-thought out, and will make veterans happy. The HD-2D style remains in splendid form, accompanied by a historical soundtrack that fully conveys the atmosphere of the era. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake thus proves to be a solid restoration, suspended between fidelity to the past and a desire for renewal. Limited by its source material, but precisely for this reason, fascinating: a perfect window into an era, finally re-proposed in its most accessible and carefully preserved version.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is fun, but it's clearly light-years behind industry standards and what one would expect from the most profitable franchise in video game history. The good ideas are completely drowned out by shoddy graphics and dialogue that still believes children need to be banal and simple, ruining a plot that works at its best and finally gives dignity to the characters and the plot holes that Game Freak missed in the sixth generation.

Double Dragon Revive isn't a complete disappointment, but it doesn't completely captivate either. It's a prime example of a project that works just enough to entertain, especially when the action heats up and the combat system shows its potential, but never really pushes the envelope. Arc System Works has crafted a respectful and reasonably solid beat 'em up, but it lacks a clear vision: a comeback that doesn't know where to look, torn between reverence for the past and a fear of fully modernizing itself. The result is an honest title, even enjoyable for fans of the genre, but inevitably destined to fade away without a trace, especially when compared to far more successful experiments like Neon or Gaiden. Perhaps wait for a price drop before giving it a chance.

BALL x PIT takes the simple mechanics of a brick-breaker like Ballz and transforms them into an explosive roguelite RPG. Between twin-stick shooter action, Vampire Survivors-style power-ups, and surprisingly deep city building, each playthrough becomes a whirlwind of frenetic action and strategic planning. Unlocking new powers, fusing abilities, and upgrading your base is an irresistible gameplay loop, enhanced by beautifully crafted biomes and bullet hell battles against ruthless bosses. Kenny Sun once again proves his ability to transform simple ideas into brilliant and engaging experiences.

Beneath the wacky cover of The Crazy Hyper-Dungeon Chronicles lies an old-school pixel art RPG that surprises above all with its meticulous level design, which blends procedural generation with hand-designed elements, giving each floor of the dungeon different puzzles, action, and personality. The hybrid turn-based and QTE combat works properly, and all the typical role-playing game elements are in place, suitably simplified. In between the quests, you can also have fun finding all the pop culture references from the last few decades.

It's not the return fans of the series were hoping for, but that doesn't stop it from being a decent cooperative shooter. It does, however, need more content.

The Outer Worlds 2 is exactly what you'd expect from Obsidian, if not in its prime, then at least very close to that status. If that's not enough to get you into the game, you're probably looking elsewhere.

Escape From Duckov transforms the intensity of extraction shooters into a brilliant and surprisingly solid parody. Behind the ironic nature of armed ducks lies mature, well-balanced gameplay, capable of blending accessibility and tension, lightheartedness and constant stimulation. The loop between raids, extraction, and progression works brilliantly, aided by a pace you're solely responsible for and a refined technical package. If you can't live without competing against other players or don't like the idea of ​​grinding in the later stages, it might leave a bitter aftertaste, but it remains a fresh, intelligent, and characterful experience, recommended for everyone, especially anyone drawn to extraction games but steers clear of them due to the PvP component.

Katamari Damacy is back, and it's still the same: crazy, fun, and hypnotic. The first true new entry in the series in 14 years offers a remarkable amount of content, plenty of customization options, and gameplay accessible to everyone, though it requires a fair amount of practice to master. The camera system, always the series' blessing and curse, has been improved, but it will require a fair amount of patience, especially in the more complex levels.

After making a name for itself on PC, Reus 2 arrives on Switch and Xbox Series X|S determined to prove that the definitive strategic meditation on cosmic creation and destruction is more than ready for portability and consoles.

Persona 3 Reload is a necessary return, a bridge between past and present that confirms the strength and sensitivity of a saga capable of reinventing itself without betraying itself. Atlus demonstrates its ability to respectfully restore, giving the game a modern look and splendid art direction, even if it fails to completely smooth out the wrinkles of a dated design. The experience remains intense, emotional, and deeply human, with a refined combat system and a narrative that continues to shine. The Switch 2 version, unfortunately, shows some technical limitations that partially dampen its magic, but not enough to obscure the greatness of the work. An essential journey for fans, and an excellent entry point for those who have never experienced the Dark Hour.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is a powerful return, imperfect but full of character, capable of making us forget the years of silence with a combat system that borders on perfection in its fluidity and ferocity. The union between Team NINJA and PlatinumGames works: the action is brutal, visceral, and visually stunning, with an artistic direction that transforms Tokyo and its nightmares into a kabuki theater of soft lighting and blood. A clear limitation is the linearity of the maps and the repetition of enemies and bosses, which end up diluting the pace, making the second half of the adventure more tiring than exciting. Ninja Gaiden 4 has plenty of character and confirms itself as an aesthetically captivating game, but incapable of maintaining the tension it promises in its best moments. A convincing new beginning, even if it's not yet the masterpiece fans have been waiting too long for.

Keeper is a poetic puzzle adventure in which you play as a sentient lighthouse who, with the help of Twig, explores a mutating island. The goal is to dispel the darkness by harnessing his own light and, above all, his unwavering determination. Without words or death, without real obstacles or elaborate puzzles, the game focuses entirely on atmosphere, metamorphosis, and visual appeal. The gameplay, basic in terms of puzzles, revolves around the beam of light and Twig's contextual action, intentionally keeping it light and uncomplicated in terms of challenge, instead pushing more convincingly on emotion, the power of images, and free interpretation.

A worthy spiritual sequel to Strange Horticulture, in Strange Antiquities we run an esoteric shop as an apprentice thaumaturge. Customers arrive with vague requests, and it's up to us to identify the correct object among relics and amulets. Gameplay revolves around observation and deduction, analyzing objects, exploring maps, interpreting symbols, and consulting manuals for clues. Progression intertwines complex puzzles and narrative choices, influencing events and endings. Challenging puzzles, a relaxed pace, and a dark atmosphere define the experience.

Battlefield 6 arrives in grand style to remind us that all-out war, when it's virtual, can be magnificent. EA, Battlefield Studios, and the community were eager to move on from the disappointment of Battlefield 2042, and we can finally say it: Battlefield is back.

I can't stop playing this game! Great as a beat’em up, great as a roguelite, Absolum is just wonderful as a combination of the two genres. The cherry on top – but maybe is the foundation below – is a glorious lore and a brilliant narration that will keep you wanting more.

Bye Sweet Carole is a thriller/horror adventure that finds its strength in the visual arts: the narrative, aesthetics, animation, and music are meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail, resulting in a delightful, extremely inspired and well-paced work. This marriage is marred by a few sporadic bugs and some escape mechanics that might require more than one attempt due to the way the game maps are designed. None of this, however, manages to detract from the experience—primarily emotional—that the game offers, proving captivating in both form and content, drawing inspiration from classics like Clock Tower and Heart of Darkness.

Little Nightmare 3 is a commissioned work and could have been decidedly less inspired. The co-op mechanics work, even in single-player thanks to the companion AI, but they somehow make the scenarios easier to read and decipher. The saga's strong point, however, remains its atmosphere, and here Supermassive has hit the mark by creating a horror anthology in which Low and Alone move under the guidance of solid virtual direction. Perhaps the formula itself has reached its limit in terms of mechanics, but in terms of inspiration, Little Nightmares 3 always manages to convey something to the player.

At its core, Sworn isn't bad and has all the makings of a fun game to keep you entertained for several hours. Beyond that, however, it stops offering any real enjoyment or gameplay depth. Compared to other behemoths, it's the one that sits closest to its comfort zone, also benefiting from a co-op system for up to four players that could make the difference. Varied in the progression of the four heroes, the biggest obstacle is the pace of the game, which alternates between really slow and fast moments, where, however, the slow pace of our heroes never manages to respond to the game world with any real responsiveness. It takes a bit of practice, at least in the first few hours, which feature a rather steep difficulty curve.

Chaotic, crazy, rich, explosive. Sonic Racing CrossWorlds is the best kart game outside the Nintendo universe and, in some ways, it is even more compelling than Mario Kart World. The only thing missing is that final spark that would allow it to definitively emerge from the shadow of its rival.

Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & The White Guardian marks a return to the series’ roots, abandoning recent experiments in favor of a more traditional, alchemy-focused approach. With a solid and relaxing crafting system, a charming cast of familiar faces, and a light yet engaging story, it delivers a comforting and enjoyable experience for long-time fans. However, a very low difficulty level, outdated exploration design, and uninspired dungeon layouts keep it from standing out, making this a solid but non-essential entry in Gust’s beloved franchise.

Dreams of Another mixes action and adventure in a dreamlike world where you destroy bokeh-like globes of light to reveal environments and objects with souls. The protagonist, Man in Pajamas, guided by Wandering Soldier, alternates between exploration, simple puzzles, and shooting sections. The mechanics revolve around the concept of “No Creation Without Destruction”: you can create only after destroying. The levels, however, are small and fragmented, interrupted by frequent returns to the main menu. Enemies and bosses are harmless, and the dialogue is slow and repetitive. Artistic and original, but suffering from a static pace and lackluster gameplay.

Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac is a fun and light-hearted action platformer full of little surprises and mini-challenges that will delight fans of Namco's popular mascot. The excessive ease and speed with which the main adventure concludes are its most notable flaws, which could deter players looking for a real challenge.

We're looking at a solid and engaging sequel that expands on the Hades universe without any major revolutions. A conservative second installment, therefore, that builds on the successful formula of its predecessor without overhauling it. Supergiant changes the protagonist, introduces new biomes, deities, and supporting mechanics, but remains faithful to the action roguelite gameplay that was already highly appreciated in 2020. Despite its lack of flaws, however, Hades II fails to shake off the feeling of being "just" a major expansion, rather than a truly new video game.

Digimon Story Time Stranger is finally a great Digimon-themed JRPG. While it looks a generation older, it makes up for it with a really well-crafted battle and evolution system and a huge catalog of Digimon.

If you're a fan of the broad "bullet heaven" genre, Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor is undoubtedly one of the best games in this category, thanks to its breadth of offerings and overall well-thought-out gameplay. It's a shame there are a few minor stumbles overall, but nothing that seriously compromises the quality of the final offering. And it's all at a truly competitive price.

Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 are coming to Switch (and Switch 2) without major extra content compared to the originals, but with graphical improvements above expectations.

Trails in the Sky: First Chapter confirms why The Legend of Heroes saga is considered a benchmark in the world of JRPGs: a long but never boring adventure, with a memorable cast and a world crafted down to the smallest detail. The combination of solid writing, deep combat systems, and customization options makes the experience compelling from start to finish. Even small imperfections—often predictable side quests or more frenetic combat—don't detract from the overall quality. It's a title that entertains, excites, and makes you feel part of a coherent and living universe, perfect for both veterans and those new to the saga. With a remake of the second chapter already in the works and scheduled for release next year, there's no better time to dive into the Kiseki universe.

Ghost of Yōtei is an ambitious project, capable of capitalising on the success of Ghost of Tsushima while building its own identity, rooted in the cultural context of the Ainu and 17th-century Hokkaidō. The protagonist, Atsu, is a highly successful character: strong, consistent and driven by clear motivation, she carries the narrative forward with intensity without ever seeming like Jin's female counterpart. The combat system evolves the formula of its predecessor, adding variety and a faster pace, while the game world is rich and dense, rewarding exploration with both concrete upgrades and narrative ideas such as the bond with the Wolf, one of the best-realised ideas. Aesthetically and sonically, the title reaches one of the peaks of the current generation: from visual filters with great personality to an inspired soundtrack, to consistently theatrical art direction, Ghost of Yōtei knows how to enchant with continuity. However, there are still limitations that betray the legacy of the past, including stealth that is still lacklustre and outdated exploration mechanics. Overall, it is a game that is entertaining and engaging, greater than the sum of its parts, but one that prefers caution over revolution.

This second DLC isn't for those dreaming of epic battles, frenetic pace, or pitched warfare across the lands of medieval Bohemia. There's a more intimate nuance to what happens in the forge; between working at the anvil and filing, there's time to delve into a part of Henry that deserves to be explored. The same way the brave young man devotes himself to his father's trade, a craft he must learn to honor his late parent's memory, but also to build a genuine fortune, as well as a refuge for his weary limbs and tormented soul.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is, ultimately, a valuable and respectful return to a work that marked the history of Japanese tactical role-playing games. Despite some questionable localization decisions and the lack of an Italian translation, this re-release offers the best possible opportunity to (re)discover a timeless classic, still capable of surprising us with its depth and narrative intensity. Square Enix has chosen not to distort the soul of the title, instead offering a bridge between past and present that will appeal to both nostalgic and new players: a faithful tribute and an invitation to immerse yourself once again, or for the first time, in the dark events of Ivalice.

Featuring a relaxed and accessible gameplay, Hammer & Ravens' Ale Abbey stands out for its serene atmosphere and the care and detail in translating the artisanal brewing process. The charming fermenters, the variety of ingredients, and the ability to customize the monastery make the experience engaging and soothing, despite a certain underlying repetitiveness.

Kyle Crane returns, the nightmarish nights return, and the sensations that Dying Light, more so than Dying Light 2, Stay Human, gave us return, albeit transposed into a very different setting design. The Beast may not be perfect and is a more contained experience than its predecessors, but it will certainly delight fans of the first installment because it recalls it where it matters most. The hunt for the Baron isn't for those looking for elaborate narratives; after all, it's just a pretext to get back out there and dance from rooftop to rooftop with Techland-style agility, among the most "beautiful" infected ever, nervously checking the clock to avoid finding hordes of horrors of the night on your heels... until the Beast makes his monstrous appearance. With this intense installment, peace is officially made between those who were disappointed by the direction the franchise has taken and Techland.

We had high expectations for this new instalment in the Konami series, and for once we can say that they were not disappointed. Silent Hill f is one of the best “classic” horror titles ever made. It manages to revamp the original formula by enriching gameplay that has very few flaws and delivering a deep, multifaceted, painful, unfiltered story that is worth experiencing more than once.

EA SPORTS FC 26 marks a step forward from its predecessor. Balanced gameplay and a fluid structure that's incredibly fun, it also brings some changes to Ultimate Team and Career modes (both player and manager), always hitting the mark. We hope this holds true throughout the year, and we're keeping our fingers crossed for any patches that, in the past, have brought about some unwelcome changes.

Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree is an isometric hack-and-slash roguelite that combines frenetic combat with strategic party management. The nine selectable characters have different styles that recall RPG archetypes such as tanks, rangers, or AoE mages, although the latter have a significant advantage. The weapon system relies on two interchangeable blades, subject to wear, and the Fury attack, a special attack unlocked by charging mana. Common enemies serve as a prelude to imposing bosses, while between runs, you can spend time in the village on activities that offer permanent buffs and encourage a constant growth cycle.

NHL 26 delivers a mixed experience. The game shows flashes of brilliance, thanks to a solid gameplay rhythm and a fair amount of on-ice spectacle, but it's still weighed down by a range of persistent issues. These flaws, while sometimes minor, can become increasingly frustrating over the course of a full season, especially for dedicated players. The revamped Be a Pro career mode is a welcome improvement, addressing several weaknesses from previous iterations. However, the rest of the game modes offer little evolution, largely recycling content and features from last year without introducing meaningful innovations.

While it isn’t perfect, with optimization especially leaving something to be desired, Borderlands 4 is a very clear improvement over its predecessor, with a far better paced story, a convincing set of characters, and a gameplay that benefited greatly from the newly added movement mechanics.

Katanaut is an action roguelite that focuses heavily on the katana: quick and brutal slashes deliver great impact, with the ability to reload your firearm only by striking in melee, creating an aggressive and satisfying gameplay cycle. Melee weapons are complemented by laser rifles, railguns, and grenade launchers that diversify the runs. The extensive perk and power-up system offers spectacular synergies, but some cooldowns are too short, making certain builds overly powerful. The experience is penalized by procedural generation, which offers linear corridors or empty areas, aggravated by enemy AI. Visually polished, it's fun but remains imperfect.

Hollow Knight: Silksong elevates the Metroidvania experience with a vast and intricate world, filled with unique biomes, hidden secrets, and clever backtracking that turns every step into discovery. Hornet, agile and versatile, tackles her ascent to Pharloom with dashes, diagonal pogos, and abilities that make for fluid and creative platforming. Exploration intertwines with intense combat against over 200 enemies and 40 bosses, each with deadly patterns that require study and precision due to their high difficulty. With hand-drawn environments that resemble living paintings and Christopher Larkin's soundtrack, capable of shifting from melancholic whisper to orchestral explosion, Silksong transforms every screen into a visual and aural spectacle of rare intensity.

Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion is particularly impressive when it comes to gameplay: the combat system is varied and creative, the exoskeleton customization is extensive, and the boss fights, when they work, offer spectacular moments. Multiplayer is also solid, thanks to cross-play that expands the possibilities for cooperation. The rest, however, isn't quite as impressive: the plot is weak, the cast forgettable, the filler missions slow down the pace, and the game world, while vast, feels empty and repetitive. Last but not least, on a technical level, the Switch 2 version reviewed here shows clear limitations, with slow loading times and an unstable frame rate. This is a game that will entertain fans of mechs and gear optimization who are willing to overlook the objective problems, but it's unlikely to satisfy those looking for an engaging story or a world to enjoy exploring.

Everybody's Golf returns to its roots, leaving the pseudo open-world of previous instalment for a more traditional structure. The new dev team has worked to give fans an accessible but appropriately challenging title, full of classic and new challenges, but it should have worked harder to offer something truly new that went beyond mini golf-style modes and, above all, a title that was technically and aesthetically on par with current platforms.

Super Robot Wars Y is an ode to nostalgia and a passion for Japanese robots: every animated sequence, every opening credit, every battle is a small celebration of the cartoons that shaped our childhoods. The roster combines old and new series to please fans of all ages, while the overly simple strategic action almost becomes a pause between one breathtaking sequence and the next. Here too, the series shows the weight of tradition: few innovations, long dialogues, and a conservative approach that limits risk and surprise, keeping it prisoner to its formula. You have to know what you're getting into. Those who love Japanese robots and jump out of their seats at the sight of Tetsuya incinerating assorted monsters with gamma rays, screaming like a maniac, will find this an almost essential experience. Those who know the series inside out and are looking for freshness and boldness will inevitably be disappointed.

NBA 2K26 confirms its position as the undisputed champion of basketball games in a largely uncompetitive market, sticking with its familiar formula and improving it in a few ways. We really enjoyed the improved fluidity of the match action and the new shooting mode, as well as the structure of the career mode, although the reward system and the myriad of repetitive tasks don't always live up to expectations. As always, we're not particularly fond of in-game transactions, but they're no longer a novelty. The king is back, long live the king! But so many taxes...

Lost Soul Aside is one of those titles that, once you've played it, makes you realize the difference between knowing a video game series well and developing one. There are several elements worth saving, but they're not helped at all by the context in which they were inserted. And the idea of ​​launching everything at a premium price also lowers the appeal of the offering.

Hell is Us is a third-person action adventure that combines semi-open exploration and Souls-like combat. There are no maps or indicators: the level design guides the player through areas connected by environmental clues and dialogue. The combat system relies on stamina and light or heavy hits, and as hit points decrease, so does stamina, creating a vicious cycle that can be broken with the Healing Pulse, a technique that converts damage dealt into healing. The KAPI drone adds variety with support functions, while fights against Hollow Walkers and Haze offer a mix of interesting but not always varied patterns. The highly evocative atmosphere is marred by monsters that don't live up to the setting.

Dice Gambit is a turn-based tactical roguelike that combines combat on a hex grid with family management. Each member of the family belongs to a different class and can evolve with active and passive skills, but Stamina decreases with each mission, forcing constant turnover. Death is permanent, and the loss of a relative can jeopardize the lineage's expansion, forcing a balance between rest and deployments. Combat is good, with various combos to execute with dice, but the graphical representation of heroes and enemies in battle is less so, as they are rather anonymous.

Playing Cronos: The New Dawn is a memorable experience, not so much for its moments of pure terror, but for the way it immerses you in a devastated, abandoned, and, at the same time, dangerous world. The constant sensation is that of walking through ruins and distorted memories, knowing that every step could change something, and that every choice has a real impact on the fate of the Traveler and that of the inhabitants of a humanity struggling against its own end. There's a subtle, persistent tension that pushes you to observe, plan, and carefully evaluate every action, as if you were truly part of that broken time flow. It's a game that lingers more for its atmosphere and worldbuilding than for its technical perfection or shrewd game design choices, which are often cumbersome and unable to work perfectly together. It's tough, at times frustrating, but ultimately satisfying.

An aesthetically pleasing, fast-paced, and appropriately challenging FPS with platforming/parkour elements and a strong nod to the Metroid Prime series. The developers at Ruiner have already demonstrated their talent and demonstrate their prowess in creating atmospheric, futuristic adventures with incredibly captivating gameplay ideas.

More than a remake, Project-X Light Years is the modern sequel to a great classic that made history and, in addition to being one of the best 'reboots' ever seen for IPs of the past, it is also one of the best side-scrolling shmups released in recent months, competing with Yuzo Koshiro's Earthion for my very own award for the most interesting of the season. Proof, if there was still any need, that we Westerners are also very capable of making excellent games of the genre, even if we don't speak Japanese.

A return that doesn't revolutionise, but confirms that Kirby and the Lost Land is still one of the most successful chapters in the series. The graphical upgrade and new content don't transform the experience into something completely different, but they offer the perfect excuse to return and explore the meticulous level design and creativity of the Mouth Morphs. The level remixes, although familiar, prove surprising thanks to new paths and spectacular visual interactions, demonstrating how even a small adjustment can breathe new life into an already beloved world. Short, yes, but intense enough to remind us why the chubby pink hero always manages to make us smile and make every exploration a pleasure.

After Grendizer, Microids brings back Space Adventure Cobra, which spotlights a sort of interstellar Lupin III who loves getting into trouble. Unfortunately for him, this time he has to deal with an adventure marred by incomprehensible design choices. What's completely flawed is the control system, which makes many stages of a game that otherwise had the potential to appeal especially to "old teenagers" of the '70s and '80s, unnecessarily difficult and unfun.

The Rogue Prince of Persia presents itself as a solid and engaging roguelite action platformer. While strongly reminiscent of Dead Cells, it manages to carve out its own identity thanks to the protagonist's agility and fluid, rewarding gameplay. The variety of equipment, meta-progression, and procedural level structure offer a good amount of depth, although the moderate difficulty and limited content may disappoint more demanding players.

After 20 years, Gears of War is finally coming to PlayStation 5, with the very first installment of the series further polished, enhanced, and complete with all the content released to date. A few wrinkles are noticeable, and the gameplay's rigidity might make it a bit unpalatable for younger players accustomed to blistering speed, but the charisma is still there, and the power of the war between the COG and the Locust is still ready to make your Lancer explode in your hands.

Art of Vengeance is a title capable of redefining what a 2D action platformer can offer today. Lizardcube succeeds once again, combining technique, style, and rhythm with a mastery that captivates both longtime nostalgics and those approaching the Oboro Clan for the first time. Every fight is a lethal dance, every stage an invitation to explore and improve, and every extra feature a challenge that rewards dedication and commitment. It's an intense, elegant, and ruthless experience, where every victory is earned on the field and every mistake is paid dearly. A return in which past and present collide uncompromisingly, reminding us why Joe Musashi is, and remains, a legend. And now, friends of Lizardcube, how do you feel about bringing Golden Axe out of retirement?

Diving back into Snake Eater in a remastered, more fluid and modernized remake with a revised control system is undoubtedly an offer few would be able to resist. We would have liked to see a little more courage—after all, a betrayal for a just cause would have given the production character—but we understand that Delta is the first timid step toward a new direction for the series. We remain curious to see how Konami will expand its ambitions in terms of re-releases of past installments, perhaps in Volume 2 of the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection or, who knows, with future remakes and, why not, new episodes. A reverential homage, perhaps too much so, but nonetheless essential for fans.

A huge and luxurious mansion, haunted and full of traps, becomes the setting of deadly challenges between complete strangers. What might seem like the beginning of a book written by Agatha Christie and Stephen King is actually a surprisingly fresh and entertaining party game with a thriller twist. Technically it's not a masterpiece, but if you have a few friends around it could become your favourite multiplayer game until Halloween and beyond.

Gatekeeper is an isometric roguelike that focuses on straightforwardness: no complex hubs, just choose a character and get started. Missions alternate between simple objectives such as escort, resistance, and activation, and spectacular, well-constructed boss fights. The power-up system is effective, with 10% bonuses that are cumulative and immediately noticeable. However, the progression system is immature: perks are unlocked with a slow “point collection” that does not enhance the character but only the assortment in the shops, and abandonment due to excessive grinding could come very soon.

Kill the Brickman is a decent roguelite with a nice idea behind it, but unfortunately it suffer a bit from repetitiveness and lack of varied enough content.

Abyssus is a good cooperative roguelite shooter, featuring a beautiful setting and decent gunplay, but it suffers from lack of variety, being too chaotic at times (especially with four players) and also, let's face it, having a subdued soundtrack. It must be said, however, that when you're shooting, you don't ask too many questions.

Now that Hellblade II has arrived on PS5, there's no excuse not to play it. Especially since once you've finished the game, you can start again by activating developer commentary, which is also added for free on Xbox and PC, along with Photo Mode and the other improvements in this Enhanced Edition.

The Necromancer's Tale is a narrative RPG set in an alternate 18th century, where black magic and political intrigue intersect. The gameplay in the early hours prioritizes storytelling over action: character creation takes place through a long interactive prologue, which affects stats, reputation, and relationships. The pace is slow, but it offers depth in dialogue and moral choices. The trust system heavily influences interaction with NPCs. Turn-based combat benefits from good artificial intelligence, and once the art of necromancy is discovered, the action becomes much more compelling. A fascinating title that requires a good deal of patience, ideal for those seeking immersion and storytelling.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Definitive Edition is an extremely disappointing “definitive” collection: a superficial remaster that doesn’t do justice to the historic first chapter of the RTS saga. The four included titles remain solid in terms of content and replayability, but the remastering work is minimal and incomplete. Given the high price, the remastering feels sloppy and unjustified. Yet another wasted opportunity for Relic Entertainment.

BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary revives the 1984 classic with over two hundred levels, including the original sixty from the first three chapters, introducing new gameplay elements such as enemy generators and acid pools, plus an intuitive editor. The fast pace and scoring system reward reflexes and precision, while the variety of content ensures longevity. Among its strengths are the solid gameplay and Chris Hülsbeck's soundtrack. Less convincing is the graphic style, which is uninspired and too reminiscent of hyper-casual mobile games. A successful tribute, despite the occasional lapses into laziness.

A futuristic wheelchair basketball game that nods to Rocket League. The idea isn't bad and the foundation is there, but currently Drag x Drive is more of an experimental title that needs some tuning and, above all, desperately needs new content in the months immediately following its launch.

Echoes of the End is an action game that aims high, but struggles to achieve its most ambitious goals due to stuttering gameplay, which is only partially offset by the beautiful vistas and excellent acting. Myrkur Games is a small team, and this is their first effort, so it's not a huge fault: but the result is still not entirely convincing.

Gradius Origins is a celebration, a labour of love for an era when every token was a gamble between you – a clumsy kid – and the universe itself. With never-before-seen goodies, meticulous revisions and gameplay refined with the obsession that only M2 can offer, this collection is as much a historical document as it is an invitation to rediscover a legendary series. It's a shame about the barely adequate museum section, an aspect that should be given more attention, especially now that Digital Eclipse's work has raised the bar, setting a standard that every retro collection should now strive to meet. But there's always time to improve with a second volume: after all, even Gradius IV: Fukkatsu was left out of the arcade discussion.

A faithful and visually stunning adaptation of Demon Slayer’s latest arcs, but limited content, minor gameplay tweaks, and weak online support make it feel more like an expansion than a true sequel.

Heretic + Hexen marks the grand return of two first-person fantasy classics, brought to life by Nightdive Studios with an impeccable and meticulous restoration. Technical improvements, new campaigns, and reworked balance enrich the experience without betraying the original spirit, offering the best of both eras: the freshness and usability of modernity and the rugged charm of the '90s. Whether you're a veteran ready to dust off old glories or a new adventurer curious to explore these milestones, you'll find a solid, rich package capable of engaging for dozens of hours.

Mafia: Terra Madre is a compact work, a rarity these days, that makes storytelling its main strength. It's not a revolutionary video game, nor does it claim to be, but it manages to leave its mark despite the flaws of overly formulaic gameplay. The rendering of early twentieth-century Sicily is excellent, thanks to appreciable aesthetic and stylistic research and the presence of full Sicilian dubbing. It's a shame there are a few too many technical issues, which I hope will be resolved as soon as possible.

There's a bit of everything in Luto. Wandering through its endless rooms and corridors that only appear to be the same, you will perceive visions of Silent Hill, references to the legendary P.T. and many other echoes from other psychological thriller games, from Layers of Fear to the underrated Reveil. A brief descent into the depths of the mind, but one that will linger in your memory even after the credits roll.

Back to the Dawn is a management RPG set in a prison populated by anthropomorphic animals, with strong survival elements. You have twenty-one days to organize an escape, keeping an eye on time, resources, social relationships, and skills. Every action consumes precious minutes and can influence future events. The turn-based combat system mirrors typical JRPG gameplay. Deep, branching, and challenging, it surprises with its wealth of options and narrative variety, despite its lackluster sound. A brilliant and strategic game, worth replaying several times to see as many endings as possible.

The Wandering Village offers us Onbu, which is great. It’s great to shape our relationship with him and care for him; however, as a city builder, the game rhythm is pretty flat and lacks memorable moments. It all runs pretty smooth – maybe too smooth.

Ragebound is a love letter to 2D action platformers, blending arcade heritage with modern solutions and jaw-dropping production design. Short but dense, the game manages to amaze with inspired design, fiery direction, and two protagonists who are perfectly integrated into the gameplay. The challenge isn't brutal at first, but those willing to push themselves further will find plenty to keep them occupied. A satisfying return to a legendary saga, and a damned promising taster while we wait for the "real" Ninja Gaiden.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers isn't a soulslike without its problems, quite the opposite. And that's a shame, because despite all these issues, the game is convincing: the combat is fun, the setting is appealing, it can be spectacular without overdoing it, and it's also quite long. But then you fall to the floor and get a few extra slaps, you die to a boss and have to walk all the way back, you enter a room and find yet another stupid enemy hidden in a vase, and well, a lot of the charm is lost.

Those looking primarily for a co-op horror FPS to savor will be well-received, as Killing Floor 3's foundation and core mechanics are solid, despite some performance issues and limited content. Those hoping for an evolution that enhances the franchise's brutal charm, or at least a third installment that innovates the gameplay, may be slightly disappointed.

The King is Watching integrates city building, strategy, and resource management into a seamless and incredibly satisfying gameplay loop. A few tweaks would be nice, but it's still an original experience that exudes passion from every elegant pixel. It's like when the boss is away at work and you take it outrageously easy, with one difference: here you're the boss; you're the King.

Becoming Saint is a bold, strategic management game that offers something different in the roguelike landscape with a refined approach. However, it's also a work marked by several more or less obvious flaws, which give it a rough and tumble appearance that clashes with the elegance of its artistic direction.

Despite the introduction of a well-written new character like Lodi and the presence of the Nine, the gameplay in The Edge of Fate proves to be extremely repetitive, with dull puzzles and fetch quests that slow down the action. The Desert Perpetual raid offers a few interesting ideas, but the campaign feels shallow and lacking in narrative momentum, leaving the impression of filler content.

If Wheel World set out to be a cycling-themed open world, well, it's nailed it. There are a few niggles, but nothing too serious and/or that can't be fixed with a patch in the days following launch.

Perhaps, for reasons of consistency/compatibility with those who don't yet have a Switch 2, Jamboree TV doesn't 'dare' to add too many new minigames, but limits itself to slightly 'revising' the gameplay of existing ones and making a few purely cosmetic additions. The attempt to give the Switch 2 Camera a meaning that isn't just hedonistic for the challengers is commendable, while the Bowser Show part, with its three rhythmic and vocal games in a row, feels like a wasted opportunity. I'm therefore inclined to start from the score that Super Mario Party Jamboree originally received (a solid 9) and make a Solomonic average based on what I would have given to the update alone (7.8), for a total of…

Patapon 1+2 Replay is the remaster of the first two games in the famous rhythm strategy series that was born on the PSP. As the Drum God, we lead a mini tribal army by giving orders only through sequences of four beats, to be executed with metronomic precision to advance, attack or defend. The system combines musical skills, tactics, unit management, material gathering, crafting and evolutions with the typical role-playing game system. Faithful and smooth re-release, ideal for those seeking a unique musical strategy experience, although the final third chapter is missing.

Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree combines souls-like combat and Metroidvania structure in a layered, dark gothic world that's compelling, both artistically and in its setting. There are some technical issues, but it's a 2.5D adventure worth experiencing.

Unfinished Business is not a disaster, but neither is it something that will stick in the memory of RoboCop fans. It's a conservative expansion, merely replicating on a smaller scale what worked in the base game, but without adding enough personality to make it an essential purchase. The feel is still the right one thanks to exhilarating action sequences and - why not? - to a few moments of genuine videogame ingenuity, but the flat pace, repetitiveness and bland setting soon dampen enthusiasm. It will please those who want to make the trusty Auto-9 sing one last time, but those hoping for truly meaningful content would do well to lower their expectations.

Edens Zero features a good gameplay system coupled with an excellent combat system. Unfortunately, the game is extremely repetitive and superficial.

Shadow Labyrinth is a madness with a lot to say, but much like its mouthless protagonist, it can't always communicate as it would like, finding itself at the mercy of events. A little more quality of life wouldn't have hurt (even the markers you place on the map have to be unlocked), yet somehow there's a certain perverse charm that permeates the entire experience. And it's not just because Pac-Man has never been this dark.

The Drifter is a pixel-art point-and-click adventure that marks a compelling return to the genre, with a modern and fast-paced narrative style. Created in Unity with the PowerQuest extension, developed by the same development team, it offers dark and detailed environments, dialogues managed through thematic icons, and a fast-paced narrative with no dead moments. The puzzles are logical, never distracting, often contained within single screens in an escape room style. Excellent voice acting and a cynical narrator complete an experience that demonstrates how adventures can still be meaningful, when crafted by skilled hands.

An action-platformer packed with destruction and fun. Donkey Kong Bananza manages to make us forget the longing for a true 3D Mario. In fact, it can easily be considered one of the best examples of the genre since Mario Odyssey, sitting proudly alongside Galaxy in terms of variety, eccentricity, originality, and fun.

Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition is a respectful and functional restoration of the role-playing video game originally developed by Obsidian Entertainment. The graphics and overall performance have improved, but the aesthetic remains dated. Modern accessibility features are missing, while companion AI is still lacking. However, most of the content, especially Mask of the Betrayer, shines with narrative depth. This is a faithful remake that aims to preserve the magic of the original, and it largely succeeds.

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is a narrative-driven isometric stealth game set in an early 20th-century Nordic country. It stands out artistically for its excellent character acting and magnificent environmental representation. Gameplay revolves around infiltration, noise management, and cooperation between three characters with unique abilities. The lack of traditional cones of vision makes for a more realistic approach, but the instadeath mechanics hinder improvisation. The level design is vertical and labyrinthine, with paths that are often linear but full of secrets and micro-puzzles.

No campaign, no alternative modes. No frills, in short. PEAK focuses on doing one thing, and tries to do it as best as possible. In this case, then, it is one of those rare examples in which the level of fun is directly linked to the people you play it with: its nature makes it perfect as a co-op title to share with a small group of close friends, as long as we are not too scared by the roguelike component.

Ruffy and the Riverside is an adventure-platform that seems to have come straight out of the 64-bit golden age, but the “swap system” integrated into its gameplay manages to make it quite unique in its genre and to give life to truly unique and fun puzzle elements. The perhaps excessive “richness” of some levels makes orientation more difficult than it should be and some performance issues on Switch 2 (in backward compatibility) would require prompt intervention by the development team.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is a second round of collections that focuses entirely on fun and nostalgia. The gameplay formula is still highly satisfying, perfect in this summer period to recall a few games, two minutes of essential gameplay and dozens of tricks to perform. The new graphic coat is excellent, with the updated roster of skaters and some new maps. The usual problems persist around the use of the camera, to be left on automatic since in manual it is truly a terrible experience. Excellent longevity for those who have played them in the past, but a clever and usable package even for those who are approaching it for the first time.