Over-the-top violence? Check. Iconic memes from the original series? Check. A solid battle system that cleverly borrows the best ideas around to deliver something uniquely its own? Double check. Honestly, there are very few reasons not to jump on board.

MotoGP 26 is a solid and conservative entry. It could probably have been more daring and explored some ideas in greater depth, but the in-game feedback is spot on, as is the content management between the campaign and supporting activities.

Sol Cesto is a roguelike that transforms probability into pure gameplay: you choose a row, but the outcome is random, with percentages shifting every turn. The system—initially simple—grows in complexity thanks to modifiers, abilities, and items that allow you to bend the odds in your favor, creating a surprising depth of strategy. Its true limitations, however, lie in a slow progression and a heavy reliance on chance—factors that can lead to frustrating runs, even with solid builds. Nevertheless, it remains an original and intelligent experience, capable of standing out within the dungeon crawler landscape.

A collection bearing the System 3 label that brings the *The Last Ninja* saga back to life, pairing it with some of the most iconic beat ‘em ups of the late 80s—from *International Karate +* to *Bangkok Knights*. Unfortunately, many of the included titles have aged poorly and prove difficult to stomach after so many years; moreover, the collection feels “lazy,” to say the least, offering no significant extras to whet the appetite.

Little Nightmares VR: Altered Echoes takes the series into virtual reality territory, skillfully reworking its structure and perspective. VR could have been used more with the puzzles, and the visual polish on Meta Quest 3 isn't perfect, but Iconik's experiment is certainly a success: it's too short, but what an atmosphere.

Saros is an extraordinary game—bordering on perfection within its genre—and a masterclass in how to fully harness its own strengths. Its gameplay is entirely at the service of the player; featuring polished mechanics, a palpable and customizable progression system, and the genuine sensation of playing a title with infinite longevity. It stands as a magnificent display of strength from the team at Housemarque—a studio that is no longer the underdog—having successfully delivered two of the very best exclusives of the PlayStation 5 generation: Returnal and—indeed—Saros.

Last Flag reworks the CTF formula, transforming it into a game of reading your opponent rather than one of pure skill. When matches click, the experience can be tense and unpredictable; however, the execution leaves much to be desired. The gunplay is merely decent, content is limited, and the player base struggles to sustain the system—not to mention a distinct lack of depth across various gameplay components. As things currently stand, the result is a multiplayer game that entertains for the first few hours but, in the long run, fails to maintain its hold on the player.

REPLACED offers gameplay that alternates between exploration, environmental puzzles, stealth, and combat—with the latter standing out as the most successful component. The combat system, simple and intuitive, evokes old-school arcade games: few commands, satisfying hit feedback, and encounters against multiple enemies that remain manageable and frustration-free. The platforming and stealth sections are less convincing, often feeling slow and lacking impact. The overall pacing suffers as a result, partly due to a certain "walking simulator" quality. Elevating the entire experience is the extraordinary graphics—among the finest 2.5D pixel art seen to date. It is a solid experience that shines brightest when it gives way to action.

A narrative adventure that plunges you into the heart of a desperate world, teetering on the brink of collapse. It is up to you to decide its fate through actions and decisions that will shape not only your own future but also that of the players who follow in your footsteps. Once again, DigixArt proves itself remarkably adept at storytelling and at placing the player at the center of an extremely intriguing gameplay concept—one that, unfortunately, lacks the necessary depth to become a new benchmark for the genre. A few technical hiccups and a somewhat underwhelming aesthetic presentation prevent it from ascending to the Valhalla of video games; nevertheless, *Tides of Tomorrow* remains an experience capable of staying with you long after you have uncovered all its possible endings.

Mouse: P.I. For Hire is a first-person shooter that manages to transform extraordinary art direction into a solid and fun gaming experience. It has some (little) limitations, but it's a truly promising debut for Fumi Games.

All things considered, Pokémon Champions is exactly what we expected—barring a few too many rough edges. In fact, looking at the game’s monetization and other titles within the Pokémon ecosystem, one is almost tempted to say we got off easy. At least, for now.

Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss is a first-person 3D investigative horror adventure strongly focused on exploration. Gameplay revolves around collecting clues, reading documents, and solving environmental puzzles, with the combination of scanner and sonar helping to mitigate classic pixel hunting. The absence of fast-paced combat is offset by a strong atmosphere. The integration between classic H. P. Lovecraft elements and modern technology, such as the AI assistant Key, works very well. The need to read notes and logs to progress may not appeal to action-oriented players, but this approach feels like a natural evolution of the adventure genre. And it works.

If attempting to describe what Tomodachi Life: A Life of Dreams actually is proves complicated, venturing to evaluate it feels like an almost subversive act. It can be one of those games that ends up sneaking its way into the routine of daily life, or an experience that feels immediately off-putting. I found it both adorable and challenging—challenging in the sense that its particular brand of humor would put anyone to the test—though I happen to be the kind of person who enjoys being destabilized by a bit of culture shock.

Pragmata is a solid game. It introduces the hacking mechanic, seamlessly integrating it into tactical and, in most cases, dynamic combat. Exploring the levels presents us with extremely well-crafted environments with remarkable visual impact. The narrative, while a little too overtly sentimental, makes its mark thanks to a few twists that pleasantly carry us through to the final moments. In short, what's there works well, just don't expect an absolute masterpiece: it lacks a spark, something that will make Pragmata stand out even years from now. It may seem a bit too much, but we always expect excellence from Capcom.

Being harsh on video games—especially those from small studios—never gives me much pleasure; yet, the more I reflect on The Occultist, the harder I find it to identify any aspects that truly won me over. A few environments are salvageable, Doug Cockle does a fine job, and the diary illustrations are genuinely lovely—but there is little else. All in all, very little indeed.

The Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection is a more ambitious undertaking than its source material might suggest. Not every element works equally well—some aesthetic choices remain questionable—but the work invested on the technical and structural fronts demonstrates a clear intent: not merely to preserve these games, but to bring them back into circulation in a form that remains relevant today. In this context, the RE Engine serves not merely as a container, but as a tool that compels a reinterpretation. And even when friction arises, it is precisely within that tension between fidelity and transformation that the collection discovers its true identity.

Life is Strange: Reunion delivers the series’ classic gameplay, built around exploration, branching dialogue, and the use of powers. Max can once again rewind time to revisit decisions and uncover clues, while Chloe adds variety through backtalk, verbal duels used to manipulate others. The stronger focus on environmental observation makes the experience more investigative and less linear. Its narrative strength is supported by excellent acting and direction, though the plot occasionally bends its own logic to tie everything together. Players unfamiliar with the series may also miss much of what the game has to offer.

ChainStaff is a 2D action shooter built on twin-stick foundations, enhanced by a strong central mechanic: the ChainStaff, a multifunctional weapon that can be used for attacking, grappling, shielding, or interacting with the environment. The gameplay is fast and accessible, with solid ideas and a good variety of situations, although in practice the weapon is mostly used offensively. The choice system – whether to rescue or devour soldiers – is an interesting addition, affecting upgrades and endings. Among the drawbacks are a fairly linear level design, poorly integrated secret areas, and occasionally imprecise physics. The visual style is original, but inconsistent.

More than twenty years after Defiance, Legacy of Kain: Ascendance proves to be a bitter disappointment. Instead of honoring the saga’s complex narrative background, Bit Bot Media’s title offers a clumsy retcon that resembles terrible fan fiction. In terms of gameplay, we are presented with a banal 2D platformer—devoid of any real challenge—that can be completed in under three hours, all while cycling through inconsistent art styles and an annoying soundtrack. This is decidedly not the title we deserved, especially after such a long wait.

An adventure that blends platforming with puzzle-solving, featuring an extremely likable and versatile protagonist alongside an excellent variety of environments and situations. The special powers of Darwin the octopus inject flair into gameplay that builds upon established conventions, while offering a few creative sparks of its own. Limited longevity—coupled with some control issues and certain gameplay segments that aren't perfectly balanced—ultimately detracts from a final result that, with a little more polish, could have stood toe-to-toe with the very best titles in the genre.

Reigns: The Witcher transforms the series' classic card-and-swipe system into a narrative adventure set in Geralt's world, where every binary choice influences the balance between factions and determines the fate of the run. The gameplay is immediate and surprisingly engaging, creating a rapid, almost hypnotic loop. The objective-and-unlock structure adds variety, and fans of the Witcher will appreciate the various references. However, the high degree of repetitiveness and the trial-and-error nature ultimately limit its long-term depth.

Pluto is a roguelite deckbuilder featuring *Slay the Spire*-style progression, built around a unique combat mechanic: spells are assigned to individual fingers, creating combinable patterns that allow for overlaps and free activations, thereby transforming every turn into a strategic puzzle. Managing free fingers—whether for defense or extra bonuses—and the use of rings add further depth to the strategic layer. However, the punishing complexity evident right from the early stages, combined with the absence of persistent progression, make the experience feel more akin to a pure roguelike than a modern roguelite—running the risk of alienating a more casual audience.

Fun, varied, and packed with different game modes, MLB The Show 26 offers a complete experience that leaves little to be desired, easily catering to baseball fans of all kinds. While this year’s changes don’t make a major impact — mostly refining what was already an excellent gameplay foundation — the core experience remains as strong as ever. For those ready to dive back in for another season of pitching duels, strikeouts, and towering home runs, the game delivers a well-rounded package that suits both a more casual playstyle and those looking for a true Major League-level challenge.

Between its improved technical performance and the additions to Bellabel Park, the Switch 2 edition feels like the most complete version of a video game masterpiece that, even at launch, seemed unlikely to improve. Yes, only Nintendo can surpass Nintendo.

Fans of sandbox management games will be in their element with Timberborn, though those less familiar with the genre might initially find it disorienting due to the absence of more guided game modes. Once these initial hurdles are cleared, however, it becomes evident that this is a title offering a potential playtime measured in the tens—if not hundreds—of hours, thanks in no small part to robust community mod support.

Marathon takes the Extraction Game philosophy and molds it into the Bungie style. It's not perfect—the UI is awful, and the missions lose their edge over time—but the gameplay loop is fun, and the shooter foundation is solid. And what a style, guys.

The return to Quel'Thalas is the emotional heart of World of Warcraft: Midnight, a solid expansion that sets the stage for the epilogue of the Worldsoul Saga. The campaign revolves around the Sin'dorei and the conflict between Light and Void, with narrative highs and lows. Gameplay-wise, however, despite one truly new feature—Housing—and no structural revolutions, just pleasant refinements, there's the usual abundance of activities between progression and the endgame that will delight those who enjoyed the latest expansions.

Stepping back into Sam's shoes on PC is the best way to (re)discover Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Far more than the new content, it's the increased technical freedom that makes the difference in the experience: the unlocked frame rate, upscaling tools, and numerous graphical options further enhance an already extremely fascinating world.

Milestone has done it. The Milan-based team decided to take a risk, stepping out of their comfort zone of motorcycle simulations to return to their roots with a *Screamer* reboot—a title that establishes itself as one of the most distinctive, entertaining, and engaging racing games on the market. The driving system—though occasionally a tad clunky—is a sheer delight of speed, technique, and drifting; the narrative compels you to tackle every race at full throttle; and the characters form a cast it is impossible not to grow fond of. It lacks only that extra aesthetic flair to truly stand out amidst the endless array of cyberpunk worlds released in recent years; yet, the technical solidity—combined with the meticulous aesthetic polish applied to the UI, the cars (some of which are truly stunning), and the characters—still manages to make Milestone’s work shine, even in this regard. *Screamer* is the racing game that both the market and the players have been waiting for.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection marks the coming of age for a series that, for the first time, truly manages to shake off the label of being merely a spin-off. Capcom has crafted a solid, multi-layered experience that cleverly weaves together storytelling, exploration and progression systems, finding in habitat restoration a mechanic that is as original as it is seamlessly integrated into the gameplay. The game world feels alive, rewarding curiosity and dedication, whilst the combat system refines its foundations without compromising them. Despite a few inevitable flaws — a certain simplicity in the more conventional side activities, some structural limitations in interaction with the world, and artificial intelligence that doesn’t always measure up in the later stages — the title manages to maintain a rare balance between accessibility and depth. The result is a mature, satisfying and surprisingly ambitious adventure, capable of leaving a tangible mark on the current JRPG scene.

The overall experience is one of the most impressive I've ever seen, even in terms of its robustness. The version we played on had some inevitable bugs and glitches, but nothing that had a severe impact on the gaming experience. The most significant technical limitation concerns the loading times , which are quite long even with high-end configurations, but are ultimately justifiable given the amount of data to load, especially since once in the game, noticeable loading times are practically non-existent. Then, looking closely, there are a few flaws: detail pop-up (well masked by the overabundance of stimuli) is noticeable while moving, the acting is a bit stiff, there are sporadic issues with lighting and reflections, and above all, a strange night whose darkness doesn't encompass the farthest visible portion of the world, while we are immersed in darkness. But, guys, it really does happen quite often that you're left speechless.

An excellent job of renovation and gameplay modernization for one of the finest horror games of the PlayStation 2 era. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake takes the original title and brings it into the modern age through targeted gameplay enhancements, new storylines, and top-tier audio-visual production—all of which bode well for the future of the franchise. Minor technical and balance issues persist, but we are confident that these will be largely resolved through post-launch updates.

If you're willing to forgive a certain amount of roughness and a basic combat system, 1348 Ex Voto will take you on a pleasant journey through medieval Tuscany lasting five or six hours, depending on your patience with exploration. I'm not a keen observer, so I missed a lot of upgrades, but I still enjoyed the game.

John Carpenter's Toxic Commando is a cooperative first-person shooter for four players in which the main objective is to survive gigantic waves of zombies. Each character follows classic RPG archetypes—support, tank, operator, and striker—and can upgrade their skills and powers through a skill tree tied to the Sludge God's toxin. Missions involve traversing large maps following waypoints until the final showdown, but exploration is essential to recover heavy weapons, ammunition, and medkits. The pace is almost musou-like: endless hordes of undead to be mowed down amid blood, dismemberment, and constant chaos, with the option of running them over even while driving heavy vehicles. Even solo, thanks to well-managed bots, the action remains frenetic and fun.

Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered does a good job overall of modernizing a video game from over twenty years ago. The narrative charm of the saga remains intact, and the "quality of life" options—most notably the fully 3D camera—help to at least partially freshen up a gameplay afflicted by severe repetitiveness. It is a pity about some overly invasive aesthetic tweaks, primarily regarding the lighting, which ruin the decadent gothic atmosphere of the original. An original that, fortunately, is always right there: you just need to press two buttons to switch to the 2003 release, which has remained almost entirely intact, for better or worse.

WWE 2K26 builds on the success of the previous version, which was already excellent. The main addition is The Island mode, which, however, still feels undeveloped (and a bit of a money-drainer). The rest of the game has seen some refinements and adjustments that raise the bar even further. Unfortunately, a few bugs are currently undermining stability, and most importantly, the crowd experience in the arenas isn't up to par with the rest of the simulation.

Pokémon Pokopia is a beautiful game that perfectly embodies the Pokémon soul. Omega Force's Animal Crossing-Minecraft hybrid makes friendship its cornerstone, and between one construction and another, between one friend and another, the world torn apart by selfishness seems to be reborn in the blink of an eye. Pokémon Pokopia is a mature game, probably the most mature in the series. Let's hope Game Freak takes notes for the mainline too.

Planet of Lana II continues the formula of the first game: environmental puzzles based on Lana and Mui's cooperation, a few essential controls, and simple yet fluid gameplay. The puzzles are intuitive and well-integrated into the environments, rewarding observation and timing rather than complex logic. Artistically, it remains a delight, with refined animations and a quiet yet effective narrative. However, the structure is almost identical to the original: the mechanics are often repeated, and the action is sparse, with very low difficulty. A coherent and refined sequel, but lacking in courage.

High on Life 2 tries to be more of a videogame than High on Life ever was — and to be fair, it actually succeeds. The problem is that nobody really asked for that, especially since, when you strip it down, it’s still an average shooter that in this second iteration loses much of the meta‑ironic charge that defined the first game.

Mewgenics is a turn-based roguelite that blends deep tactical gameplay with unapologetic dark humor. The action order is individual and dynamic, determined by stats and modifiers, while cats have no fixed classes: collars define their role, abilities, and progression, with upgrades chosen from random pools. Each feline can take part in only one run, making breeding and partial skill inheritance central mechanics. A competitive AI, full permadeath, and numerous random events ensure constant variety, balancing strict strategy with genetic unpredictability.

Everything has led to this... Resident Evil Requiem is the game that sums up 30 years of the saga, taking us back to where it all began. It was a huge risk for Capcom, but one that paid off almost flawlessly, delivering a narratively compelling, technically sumptuous title characterized by two gameplay styles that are as different as they are well blended.

Regardless of the strengths and weaknesses listed in the review, Styx: Blades of Greed is a classic video game that reveals its true colors and uses all its gameplay in the very first hours, only to then become bogged down in chronic repetitive gameplay, remaining unchanged until the end credits. The inspired level design and clever use of the lighting system are some of the game's redeeming features, but it's truly difficult to overlook the enemy AI's structural flaws and generally low difficulty.

Neva: Prologue is a decent addition to Neva. Decent, in fact: it does its job, it's not at all bad, and it's even cheap, but it doesn't quite live up to the core game's promise, and feels less inspired and compelling compared to it.

God of War: Sons of Sparta attempts to delve into Kratos' past with a promising narrative, but ends up betraying much of the power expected from a title in the saga. The idea of exploring the trauma and nascent fury of the Ghost of Sparta was intriguing, and Deimos is a successful human counterpoint, but the game fails to transform this potential into a memorable experience. The predominant feeling is that of a timid title, almost fearful of its own heritage: the combat lacks bite, the two-dimensional graphics appear uninspired and lacking in character, and the mechanics — although functional — are uninspiring and constantly feel like something we've seen before. Sons of Sparta does not leave its mark, does not surprise, does not embody the epicness and brutality that made Kratos an icon; interesting for the most curious fans, but disappointing for those who expect the fury and emotional impact typical of the saga.

The Infernal Edition represents the most complete and modern incarnation of Blizzard's classic. The Reign of the Warlock DLC introduces a new, deep and versatile class, a more dynamic endgame, and a series of quality-of-life improvements that significantly improve loot management and progression. Without overturning the original core, this edition manages to coherently expand the game, offering new objectives for veterans and a solid entry point for those entering Sanctuary for the first time.

Cairn is, without further ado, the first great gaming experience of 2026. Its mechanics aren't perfect, with flaws that need to be ironed out everywhere, but it's a game with a disruptive force in what it aims to be, with form and substance among the best I've ever played. The classic gaming experience marries perfectly with the grammar of climbing, which here becomes a challenge of positioning, endurance, and mentality.

Reanimal is a compact yet intense cooperative horror adventure, built around the bond between two brothers and a journey through disturbing islands and unspeakable horrors. Tarsier Studios evolves the formula that made it famous with a more realistic three-dimensional world and a direction designed for shared fear. The atmosphere is the real strength, supported by powerful imagery and a minimal yet effective narrative. The puzzles won't fully satisfy those seeking a real challenge, and perhaps the mechanics could have been more daring, but the experience remains emotionally impactful, refined, and engaging from start to finish.

The more I played Romeo is a Dead Man, the more I realized I was in the presence of the quintessential decent video game, nothing more. The game developed by Grasshopper Manufacture is a formally correct action game, without any particular or obvious flaws, but also lacking in interesting sparks and ideas. Beyond the crazy style typical of Suda51's works, what remains is an "old school" video game that can entertain fans of the genre for about fifteen hours, but never truly excels. It's a shame about the optimization, or rather, the lack thereof.

Mario Tennis's debut on Switch 2 is solid and uneventful, despite its sumptuous visuals and beautiful animations. The game needs some adjustments to its difficulty balance—too easy in the first three levels and damnably tough in the last—and to the techniques used with certain Frenzy Rackets, which are far too lethal and can mitigate the delightful unpredictability of matches.

Ride 6 is a lovely simcade that builds on its predecessors thanks to some new features that won’t revolutionise the franchise. The good news is that the riding bit is as exciting as ever.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 is a thoughtful reinterpretation of a historically divisive chapter, finally able to showcase its strengths without being hampered by the structural limitations of the original. The Dragon Engine, the revised pacing, and a deeply refreshed combat system restore dignity to a story that never lost its merit, but which for years remained trapped in an unappealing form. The much-hyped Dark Ties content proves to be more for fans than newcomers, but the overall balance is finally right. Yakuza Kiwami 3 doesn't rewrite the history of the series, but it gives it a much-needed facelift that makes it enjoyable to experience again. And that's exactly what this chapter needed.

If you're a fan of My Hero Academia, All's Justice is a perfect product to experience all the heroes, especially in their form from the latest story arc. The 1v1 and 3-on-3 team battles work very well, provided you disable automatic combat. All the game modes are also excellent. There's a feeling that a little more could have been done, but it's certainly the most complete project dedicated to the franchise.

Nioh 3 is a conscious and surprisingly ambitious evolution. Team Ninja chose not to abandon the identity built over time, preferring to refine and expand upon it with ideas that deeply impact the rhythm and structure of the experience. The new duality between samurai and ninja is a systemic addition that enriches the combat system like never before, making it freer, more creative, and more layered, without sacrificing the technical and punishing soul that has always distinguished the series. The open maps, while not groundbreaking, finally give breathing room to a progression that was more mechanical in the past, transforming grinding into exploration and repetition into discovery. Certainly, the recycling of assets and an activity structure that feels somewhat dated prevent the game from reaching truly memorable heights in terms of wonder and presentation, but these limitations weigh less than one might expect, thanks to a constant sense of growth and a consistently rewarding reward system. A title that demands a lot from the player in terms of attention, study, and dedication, but gives back just as much to those willing to embrace its complexity: undoubtedly the most complete, mature, and satisfying Nioh ever made.

Bogos Binted? is a wacky party game based on card games between lazy aliens, where each turn players contribute to a shared sum without exceeding a random target number. Whoever goes over the limit activates a compressor connected to their skull, often with fatal consequences. The gameplay is immediate, just the right amount of mean, and supported by special cards capable of turning the tables at the last second. The bizarre look and super-budget price work in its favor, but the fact that only one of the four planned modes is present in the final release is a significant drawback. Without rankings, tournaments, or leaderboards, interest quickly wanes if you're not playing with friends. Fun, but still incomplete.

A more compact and aesthetically pleasing Dragon Quest VII. The redundant narrative elements of the original have been appropriately trimmed, and although the plot remains quite conventional and in some instances rather "cheesy," the protagonists remain among the best in the series. The additions made to character progression and customization are effective, as are those to the combat system, which, while remaining very classic, is now faster and more immediate. The ability to adjust the difficulty at will is excellent, but the game still needs some post-launch balancing adjustments.

Quarantine Zone: The Last Check turns the classic zombie theme on its head by putting the player in the shoes of a health inspector at a military checkpoint. The gameplay revolves around inspecting survivors, diagnosing symptoms, and making often irrevocable moral decisions, with clear references to Papers, Please. The idea is original and the immersion works, but the structure tends to become repetitive as the hours go by. The action and base-building sections break up the routine without ever being outstanding. The experience is penalized by an overly rigid evaluation system and a technical implementation that is merely functional. An interesting release, more for its concept than for its gameplay depth.

Even on PlayStation 5, Bye Sweet Carole performs admirably, with truly exciting artistic, narrative and musical direction.

Code Vein II could be described as a more accessible Elden Ring, and that wouldn't be entirely wrong. But it would be a shame to stop at the obvious similarities and simplifications, because the game behind it is undoubtedly a great game. It's a little didactic in some choices, a little fan service in others, but it's also capable of frequently resonating with the player on the other side of the screen.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons on Switch 2 isn't a revolution, but thanks also to the 3.0 update, it proves to be the most solid and accessible version of the game, ideal for veterans and newcomers.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade on Switch 2 is a surprisingly ambitious conversion, successfully bringing one of the most spectacular JRPGs of recent years to the Nintendo platform without compromising its identity. The visual presentation remains high-quality for a (even portable) console, the combat system is still brilliant today, and the content of the Intergrade version guarantees a complete package. On the other hand, the framerate locked at 30 fps represents a step backward that's difficult to ignore after experiencing the fluidity of the versions for inevitably more powerful systems, and the installation size—already significant on the original platforms, to be fair—is particularly noticeable on Switch 2. Finally, the strongly linear structure was already subject to criticism in 2020 and today inevitably appears more dated, especially when compared to the open spaces of Rebirth. It remains an excellent choice for those within the Nintendo ecosystem, but not the definitive version of the game.

As is traditional for Ice-Pick Lodge, Pathologic 3 is not a game designed to entertain, please, or make the player comfortable with welcoming introductions, explanations, and power fantasies. It's a game that demands to be approached on its own terms. Whether you like them or not, those are the terms. It's not a "physical" ordeal like its predecessor; the protagonist's torment this time is certainly more cerebral. However, the beauty of fragility remains intact. No matter how much power and knowledge are accumulated, even knowing in advance what will happen in 5 days, some events are inevitable. Others can only be mitigated. Others can be changed at a very high price. It's not a world of heroes, but rather of humans (and non-humans) with all their differences, doing the best they can with what they have, against an enemy about whom they even have differing opinions.

MIO: Memories in Orbit is a beautiful and substantial Metroidvania with excellent presentation and fluid gameplay that avoids becoming frantic. It's a shame about the trial-and-error platforming sections and the overly cryptic exploration, but fans of Metroidvania games will find plenty to enjoy (though you might want to keep a guide handy).

Cozy Caravan applies the concept of cozy gaming to a solid game structure based on trade, management, and exploration. Gameplay revolves around the classic economic cycle of gathering resources, crafting, and selling at weekly markets, with interconnected quests and progression driven by social interaction. The absence of time limits or real penalties makes the experience relaxing, but the graphics don't always support the good design ideas: flat textures, overly low-poly models, and a fixed camera without pan and zoom penalize the visibility of the scenes, especially in crowded areas. The aesthetics are certainly consistent with the cozy tone, but at times they border more on technical simplification than conscious stylistic choice.

With Renegades, Bungie tries an ambitious crossover, but it ends up making Destiny 2 lose its uniqueness. The inspiration from the Star Wars saga feels forced, with a weak story, unconvincing characters, and a universe that ends up being corrupted by alien elements. The campaign is short, the activities are repetitive, and new features are virtually nonexistent. It's only saved from complete disaster by its solid gameplay and a few flashes of brilliance here and there. Definitely not enough to revitalize a struggling live service suffering from an obvious identity crisis.

As a longtime fan of rhythm games, Rhythm Doctor was a pleasant surprise. It strikes an effective balance between a charming, playful tone and a strict, unforgiving design built around precision timing. The controls are as simple and immediate as they come, supported by a strong selection of songs and musical styles, and a light but engaging story mode. The intentionally quirky pseudo-pixel art look feels somewhat unnecessary and disconnected, yet remains oddly appealing. With extensive options, a solid level editor, and a very active community creating custom songs, Rhythm Doctor offers impressive longevity for players willing to embrace its demanding nature.

Terminator 2D: No Fate is a conscious act of love towards a specific era of video games, recreated with technical skill and aesthetic taste that go far beyond simple nostalgic exercise. Bitmap Bureau once again demonstrates its mastery of the 16-bit language, crafting a title that seems to come from an alternative timeline where quality tie-in games never went extinct. The problem is that, just like a 1990s action movie watched on VHS, Terminator 2D: No Fate ends too quickly. The challenge is quickly overcome, the longevity remains limited even when exploring the variations offered, and the extra modes fail to transform the experience into something more lasting. It remains, therefore, an excellent game in its form, but limited in scope: a small instant classic, destined to leave an enthusiastic memory rather than occupy the player's evenings for a long time. A creative success, in short, that only needed a few more cartridges in the magazine.

Skate Story offers an original approach to skateboarding, using it as a tool for movement and combat rather than a purely athletic discipline. The physics are solid and accurately convey weight and inertia, while the controls are responsive and accessible, allowing players to chain together tricks and combos without excessive technical barriers. The boss fight system, based on speed and scoring, works well and enhances the gameplay. However, the level design remains cautious: the routes offer few opportunities for creative experimentation, board customization is superficial, and the quests, while clear in their objectives, sometimes feel like simple gameplay pretexts rather than genuine storytelling progressions.

ROUTINE is a game that thrives on atmosphere rather than mechanics, on suggestion rather than surprise. It's an old-fashioned, almost artisanal horror game that enchants and captivates with its retro-space aesthetic and the suspended melancholy that only empty spaces can evoke. There are limits, tangible and recognizable, but this is a project that has chosen a risky but decidedly personal path: it's not perfect, but it's hard to forget.

Blood: Refreshed Supply is the technically best and most complete version of Monolith's legendary FPS, just what we need to celebrate Blood as the great classics deserve. If you don't already own the Fresh Supply edition, of course.

Cross Blitz is an RPG deckbuilder with two souls: the narrative mode Fables, structured on a hexagonal map with events and turn-based card battles, and Tusk Tales, a Slay the Spire-style roguelite with branching paths, relics, and permanent upgrades. Combat takes place on eight slots per side, where positioning determines attack and defense trajectories. Mana grows each turn, enabling increasingly powerful play curves. Over five hundred cards, synergistic abilities, distinct archetypes, and variable enemy decks make deck building strategic and highly experimental.

Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow brings the series into virtual reality territory with surprising naturalness, building an experience based on physical stealth, verticality, and tactile interactions. The City is alive, dark, and believable, Magpie is an excellent protagonist, and the optimization on Quest 3 is solid. Some AI rigidity, an inconsistent pace, and frustration caused by imprecision don't undermine its value: it's one of the best native VR stealth games of recent years.

Using a font similar to Times New Roman for almost the entire interface isn't a great idea; I understand the intention to reference Stranger Things here as well, but, well, it looks a bit like a poorly printed business card. However, it immediately gives an idea of ​​what the whole game will be like: no frills, focused on the essentials, but capable of doing its job very well. In fact, there are no flaws in the execution, everything works wonderfully, and there are a lot of quests to complete, many people to talk to, and countless monsters to kill. The problem, if anything, is managing to maintain the momentum and interest throughout the game, and this essentially depends on your affinity with the genre. A pleasant indie title, which perhaps requires some minor tweaks here and there, but which is worth the price at which it is sold.

Romancing Saga: Minstrel Song Remastered International is a thoughtful tribute to a peculiar and unrepeatable way of understanding Japanese role-playing games. The Italian localization finally makes accessible an extraordinarily free and unpredictable system, which rewards curiosity and punishes a linear approach with the same unwavering naturalness with which it allows quests to disappear without warning. The quality-of-life options, additional characters, and interface refinements mitigate the harshness of its historical rough edges, but do not distort its profound logic: Romancing Saga remains a living, ever-changing, sometimes unsettling ecosystem, always ready to surprise those who accept to be guided by the unexpected. Not a remaster for everyone, but an open door to a universe that resists compromise and continues to exist for those who seek, in JRPGs, something radically different from the usual.

Possessor(s) aims to combine action platforming and Metroidvania in a devastated urban world, offering great mobility and a combat system without contact damage, making battles more fair and dynamic. The original visual atmosphere, good writing by the Luca–Rhem duo, and creative level design are somewhat overshadowed by some graphical oversights and a control system that is not always precise. The lack of a grace period when taking damage can be very punishing when there are multiple enemies on screen. A solid game, but with imperfections that limit its impact in one of the most competitive markets.

Octopath Traveler 0 is not only an ambitious bridge between past and present, but Square Enix's most mature attempt to reconcile the mobile nature of the original project with the expectations of a JRPG for home consoles. Its monumental structure, the dark, melodramatic, and uncompromising narrative, and the richness of its strategic mechanics deliver an experience that, while stemming from a gacha title, manages to establish itself as an authentic and significant chapter in the series. It's a long, at times challenging journey that requires patience and dedication, but one that rewards with a sense of growth, community, and discovery that is rare even in the modern landscape of the genre. Octopath Traveler continues to represent one of the most consistent and passionate interpretations of the classic JRPG.

Disturbing and outside of any canon: horses is a journey into the loss of innocence.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a game that exists in constant tension between what it is and what it could have been. It has moments where it recaptures the rarefied atmosphere of its predecessors, recovering that sense of isolation, wonder, and discovery that defined the series, but it quickly stumbles over choices that dilute its rhythm and identity. It's a chapter that's enjoyable to play and, in more than one instance, truly shines. Yet it never quite manages to shake off the feeling of having been held back, polished, and constrained by timid decisions, perhaps a legacy of an overly complicated development process. It's not the chapter that will mark a new direction, but neither is it a bitter disappointment. It's a game suspended between ambition and caution, imperfect but sincere, that deserves a chance: when Beyond finds its voice, even if only for a moment, it still reminds us why Metroid is Metroid.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion once again confirms Tribute Games' ability to engage with a genre they know inside out, without sacrificing their own identity. It's a brilliant homage to the beat 'em ups of yore, finding fertile ground for ideas, pace, and character in Marvel's cosmic landscape. Some sporadic frame rate drops in the most intense situations and the natural loss of momentum when playing solo don't detract from its solidity, nor from the care that shines through in every aesthetic and mechanical choice. We weren't able to fully evaluate the online multiplayer, but its presence completes an already generous package. Overall, it's a thoughtful and genuine production that puts the focus back on what really matters: the pure pleasure of the action.

Terrifier: The ARTcade Game is a side-scrolling beat 'em up inspired by the Double Dragon arcade cabinet, featuring four playable characters from Damien Leone's horror franchise. It offers good pixel art, a chiptune soundtrack, convincing CRT/VHS filters, and six modes, including Arcade, Story, and Boss Rush. The combat system is basic, based on two attacks and a special move, with gory finishers and collectible weapons. However, imprecise hitboxes, chaotic priorities, and broken pacing detract from the experience, making the title appealing only to the most die-hard fans.

An entertaining retro shooter featuring appealing aesthetics and refined, varied gameplay that is just the right amount of challenging. Those who grew up playing old classics such as Wild Guns, Contra, and Cabal will feel right at home, but they will have to work hard to reach the end credits.

The modern superhero genre, with its real-world heroes and corporate dynamics, is very complicated to manage, even for those who work with superheroes every day. ​​To perfectly capture its nuances, while also offering an original perspective, and to do so through a narrative adventure—another genre that's not easy to handle—is a success we truly didn't see coming. Dispatch is surprising, even just for how it manages to handle and connect such diverse dynamics within an experience that keeps you glued to the screen.

Escape from Tarkov is a solid extraction shooter born in 2017. Despite its technical limitations and uneven balance, version 1.0 confirms it as a unique, intense, and persistently engaging hardcore tactical FPS. It's not for everyone, but that's precisely what makes it special.

A.I.L.A works best when it lets the silences and disturbing scenarios speak for themselves, less so when stiff animations or technical roughness come into play. In short, an imperfect but evocative horror game with some interesting insights.

Europa Universalis V is the most mature version of the series: not only does it add features, but it integrates them into a coherent fabric that makes the historical simulation more believable. It's not perfect, but it's a blast.

Bubble Bobble Sugar Dungeons attempts to enrich the classic Bubble Bobble gameplay by introducing roguelite and metroidvania elements, and on paper the idea is actually quite promising; unfortunately, the bland level design and an overall execution that borders on amateurish make it impossible to tell whether the format could truly have worked or if it should have been abandoned from the start. There’s very little worth saving in this production, Bubble Symphony aside. Hardcore little dragon fans will find something to chew on for a good number of hours, but fun is by no means guaranteed.

A kart game that challenges Mario Kart or Smash Bros. on floating vehicles? Kirby Air Riders has speed in its DNA and rewards the most skilled and patient players with tons of unlockable items. At the same time, however, the many facets of its playful soul risk being too much and confusing the “core” experience. Between dozens of mini-games, lightning-fast races, and boss battles with weapons, the game loses some of its focus but still remains a fun experience... especially in multiplayer.

Black Ops 7 attempts to redefine the series' historical formula with a more cohesive ecosystem, based on advanced mobility, shared progression and intertwined modes: not everything is uniform, the flaws are different, but the global result is ambitious, rich, alive.

News Tower offers a refined management experience, capable of speaking both to nostalgics of the genre and to those looking for a more narrative and modern tycoon.

The Berlin Apartment is a short but sweet walk through a century of history of the German capital, where the underlying theme is life under oppression; of the Third Reich at first, and of the DDR later. Good voiceover, pleasant visual style, but the “gameplay” is a bit clunky at times.

Of Lies and Rain demonstrates how a small studio can interpret VR with personality, making you wonder what Castello Inc. could do with a different budget. It's an immersive adventure that thrives on gestures and sensations rather than statistics, and it restores to VR the physicality too often sacrificed for comfort. It's not a perfect game, especially from a technical standpoint, but it's authentic to the core and thrills: in a market where special effects are often emphasized over substance, this is more than enough to recommend it without hesitation to anyone with a headset.

Another old-school survival horror game, for better or worse. If you love fixed camera angles, pre-rendered backgrounds, limited saves, and constant tension, you can safely add half a point to the final rating. Technically, it's a step up from the previous installment, with excellent, detailed locations, atmospheric and crystal-clear sound, and responsive controls. Animations and poly-models aren't top-notch, but you can't have everything.

Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack is a charming celebration of one of Gust’s most beloved RPG sagas. The three remastered titles look and play better than ever, packed with all DLCs, quality-of-life updates, and plenty of content. While the first game shows its age and performance could be smoother, the trilogy’s warmth, optimism, and refined alchemy systems shine through. A colorful, feel-good journey about friendship and growth. Perfect for fans and newcomers alike.

Do you like the Anno series? You'll also love Anno 117: Pax Romana. The city builder stays perfectly on the trajectory of its predecessors, with a few improvements that add gameplay options without, however, offering anything substantially different from the usual. The real star of this game is the user interface, at once simple, elegant, and super efficient: all management games should take it as their absolute model. It's a shame that the campaign story has one of the most anticlimactic endings I've ever seen.

The restoration of Syberia is, first and foremost, a duty toward a classic that plays an important role in what we might call the "renaissance" of the point-and-click genre. Kate Walker's early adventures transcend pure gameplay to become art, and it is precisely here, perhaps, that the risk of distorting a work lies. Fortunately, this is not the case: Virtuallyz Gaming has been meticulously respectful of the style, colors, and pacing established by Benoît Sokal, with the goal of offering us a version of Syberia less prone to ageing with the advancement of technology. And they have succeeded. A must-have for those who have never played it and a pleasant, necessary refresher for everyone else.

ARC Raiders perfectly combines the punishing gameplay of extraction looter shooters with the setting, graphics, and storyline of the best single-player shooters. Battling against machines is engaging, and the game encourages cooperation even without friends to form a party. The gun physics are very well done and create a pleasant sense of impact. While you can purchase assets with real money, there's no pay-to-win. Servers that guarantee near-instant access and a solid, lag-free netcode complete the package.

Earth vs Mars is a turn-based strategy game that doesn’t aim to revolutionize the genre, but rather sticks to the tried-and-true formula of Advance Wars with a small twist: hybrid units infused with animal DNA. The storyline is simple and the retro-inspired art direction is intentional, yet the missions are well-designed and offer a gentle difficulty curve. The hybridization mechanic adds a layer of tactical depth, though it remains the only truly innovative feature. A conservative product, but a solid choice for those looking to explore the genre without too much complexity.

Fans of the World of Darkness will certainly find at least the atmosphere, good characters, and an enjoyable plot, thanks in part to the fact that big-budget vampire-themed games don't come flooding in. Fans of the first game for its RPG aspect and replayability will find almost nothing here except pale homages. It's up to you to decide where you stand between these two extremes. As a side note, I feel it's important to note that compared to The Chinese Room's typical output, this game still represents significant ambitions and a first for the English studio. Perhaps the experience gained will one day bear sweeter fruit, without leaving a legacy too burdensome to manage.

Death by Scrolling is a top-down roguelite by Ron Gilbert that combines instant action with ongoing progression: each run makes your character a little stronger, pushing you toward the classic "last playthrough." The simple yet tactical gameplay offers automatic combat and limited equipment options, with procedurally generated environments and a constant wall of flames hounding you. However, it suffers from a lack of variety, a sometimes unclear level design, and an often unfair difficulty. It's fun for short sessions, but far from the brilliance of the best casual roguelites.