If you like bridge construction games or are a big fan of LEGO bricks, you’ll likely find enough to love in LEGO Bricktales to overcome its performance and gameplay issues. I would gladly trade some of the beautiful visual flair for a smoother framerate, so I hope the improvements the developers are working on bear fruit. I’m not sure what can be done about the controls, so you may just have to put up with them if you’re dedicated to playing the game on a console. A great idea, a passable execution, and overall an okay game that at least has something different to say about the venerated toy brand.

Endless Memories is the kind of game that probably would have cleaned up in a less-crowded Metroidvania landscape. It’s a decent game whose biggest sin is being unable to properly manage its own size. Massive games in this genre can work (see Hollow Knight) but they need to take some precautions lest their sheer size and backtracking requirements end up boring the player. If you don’t mind a game that probably should have gotten off the stage hours before it actually does, and can cope with the fact that bad luck might leave you fighting goliaths with a butter knife, then feel free to give this a go.

Now, I’m not going to say this is a must-have, and there are better twin-stick shooters on the Switch to be sure. But for your eight bucks, you get a rather robust bit of B-movie (maybe D-movie) action with decent atmosphere and solid shooting gameplay. It can be a little grindy if you want to upgrade everything, but with added modes (including a very enjoyable local co-op mode for up to four players) and interesting environments to explore, even the act of grinding isn’t so bad. I had a better time with Splatter – Zombiecalypse Now than I was expecting to, and that’s always a lovely surprise.

Those looking for a decent challenge will find it in simply trying to solve the puzzles that open the doors that allow you to progress, but those looking for some extra spice will find it in trying to track down all of the collectibles in each area. There is also a hard mode that is less kind with where it respawns you if you should perish. But generally, I think most people will have the best time by simply enjoying the ride through this rather gorgeous game. Go for those collectibles if you’re feeling it, but otherwise, just enjoy that nice chew of observing your surroundings and solving some puzzles. Youropa has a real vibe, and if you’re into what it’s laying down you’ll have a great time with it.

I only have a few knocks on C.A.R.L., and they’re not huge ones. There’s one particular level that is an outright pain in the butt, and not in a fun way. The bosses lack spice, and are overall far too easy to fell. The game’s humor is trying hard, and that’s always going to be a subjective thing. If you don’t plan on scouring for all the secrets, the game could feel too short. But as mentioned, none of these are big issues for the game. It’s a fun, energetic platformer with sharp level designs and a lot of personality. Certainly worth a go for fans of the genre.

I remember thinking how No Man’s Sky was a fantastic experience for exploring planets and listening to brilliant music right from the start, but seeing how many were understandably let down by the initial release. Since then, it has continued to only get better and better while releasing on more platforms. It now more than ever justifies its asking price. As someone who owns just about every version of the game physically and digitally, No Man’s Sky is one of the best Switch games of the year, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves over time alongside the other versions of the game.

If you loved Horizon Chase, you’ll love Horizon Chase 2. If you’ve never played the first game, you can easily jump in with this sequel and have a great time. It’s in some ways an expected sequel, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that when there was so little to complain about in the first game. I had actually let my Apple Arcade subscription lapse, but I signed right back up again for Horizon Chase 2. It did not let me down. Now all we need is to get the online population a little more active. Hopefully that’s an issue that will solve itself with time.

Dropsy prefers to show, not tell. Its symbolic approach to just about everything makes some things harder than they really need to be. It can be really difficult to figure out where to go or what to do because the game just isn’t big on guiding you. Whether that is a problem or not is up to the individual. But you will spend a lot of time wandering around even if you more or less figure out what to do, resulting in a game that feels very bloated. There’s something nice about how positive Dropsy tries to be, and I think, as a result, it is worth putting up with its flaws.

Dorfromantik is a pleasant game. It’s pleasant to look at, it’s pleasant to listen to, and it’s pleasant to poke at. The controls in this Switch version are a little awkward, and it’s clear the game wasn’t built for a controller interface, but they’re not so bad as to ruin the experience. If you’re looking for a very low-stress game to unwind with, Dorfromantik is just about the perfect ticket.

On a mechanical level, Gunslingers & Zombies does its job. You have several things to consider, such as the range of your weapons, available ammo, the direction from which you are attacking, and whether to use your action points on taking the offensive or to save some for overwatch defense. Nothing you won’t have seen before, but it’s all competently implemented to provide a reasonably satisfying, light tactical experience. If you’re looking for a turn-based tactical Western-themed game on your Switch… well, buy Hard West first. But if you’re looking for a second one? This isn’t bad.

Despite the somewhat rocky difficulty curve, Midnight Fight Express is an enjoyable spin on the beat-em-up genre. It plays a bit differently from the average entry in the genre, but once you get the hang of it you can pull off some wild sequences that just plain feel good. It’s only a few hours long, but it is immensely replayable thanks to having many unlockables, options, and leaderboards to jostle with other players on. This is one express brawlers fans will want to catch.

If you enjoy action-adventures and don’t mind a game that isn’t big on going easy on the player, you should give TUNIC a look. It’s gorgeous, clever, challenging, and simply a joy to pick away at. While it is quite difficult by default, there is an impressive number of options for those who want to tailor the game to their preferences. This Switch port, while obviously not quite up to the versions on other platforms from a technical standpoint, is very good and more than capable of delivering the experience to players. Really something special.

Let’s Build a Zoo is a dangerous game. When I decided to take a break from playing The Centennial Case on PS5 to spend a few minutes with Let’s Build a Zoo on Switch, I ended up putting in over an hour and barely realizing it was 1:30 AM. It is a perfect fit for a portable as well, but hope the UI issues can be addressed over time with updates. If you can deal with the small text and some interface elements, this is an essential. I like the controls, gameplay, writing, and never got tired of the music. While I’m sure it runs better on more powerful systems, I don’t think I’d trade portability for anything else with Let’s Build a Zoo, and I hope it does hit iPad in the near future.

In its current state, I’d recommend picking up Hokko Life on another platform over Nintendo Switch if you have the option. The long load times and performance issues even in early parts hold it back. The developers have said that they are still working on the game and bringing more to it, and Hokko Life has the potential to be much better on Switch. Right now, I can only recommend it with the caveat about technical issues and assuming you like the aesthetic. I enjoyed my time with this blend of elements from Animal Crossing and Story of Seasons.

In its current state, Temtem is moving in the right direction and is absolutely worth your time on Switch as long as you’re ok with the online-only aspect of it. I still have issues with the lack of any sort of offline support for a portable system like Nintendo Switch, but the core gameplay loop and amount of content available with the 1.0 launch is well worth the asking price. The Switch port is also very good considering the hardware and how it runs on other platforms as well.

If you like adventure games or just want to enjoy an interesting, well-written story with a pleasingly dark vibe, Beacon Pines will serve you well. It’s a thoroughly engrossing tale that pulls you in further the more you play it. Perhaps a little too substantial to explore in a single session, but you’ll likely find yourself wanting to see it all the way through in one go. Add in a superb presentation with gorgeous visuals and excellent narration, and you’ve got a winner.

There are some particulars of OneShot I would prefer not to discuss because this is indeed one of Those Games, but I think just about anyone who enjoys the adventure game genre will fall for OneShot‘s charms. It’s a clever, immensely likeable game that is metatextual without being obnoxious about it. You’ll almost certainly want to replay it immediately after you finish it, and that’s the mark of a pretty awesome story and game in my books. It has made the transition to Switch as well as it can to any non-computer platform, and if this is where you happen to play it, I think you’ll have a fine time.

If you enjoy Pokemon Snap and Amanita Design games, Penko Park feels like a lovely blend of both with its own unique charm that will keep you coming back for more as you inch towards 100% completion. While it may seem repetitive on paper at first, the developers have done a great job of throwing unlocks at you as you explore the different locations trying to grab secrets, photograph the eclectic creatures in different positions, and fill up your guidebook.

In the end, Shovel Knight Dig checks off two boxes for me: the desire for a Shovel Knight-ish experience on my iPhone, and the desire for more games like Downwell. It’s not flawless by any means, but it’s a great game with a lot of things going for it. I’m truly impressed with how well Nitrome was able to adapt the essence of Shovel Knight into such a different format without losing the satisfying elements of the pineapple and pen it was trying to smash together.

Potion Permit is fine. Occasionally quite good. It certainly makes an effort to do some different things, to varying degrees of success. Apart from some performance problems in this Switch version, the biggest thing dulling Potion Permit‘s shine is just how familiar its structure is. When you take into account the somewhat grindy nature of this sort of affair, the lack of any particularly inspiring derivations makes it one best consigned to fans of the genre looking for another hit.

Like Crossbell itself, Trails from Zero is caught between two large powers: the humble Sky series that got this whole ball rolling, and the Cold Steel games that are perhaps a bit too drunk on excess. It’s a great RPG, and one that nicely demonstrates what makes this series so well-loved.

If you’re looking for a different sort of shooter, or perhaps one that has some similarities to Ikaruga, Radiant Silvergun has a lot to offer. It’s rare to see it rereleased, and the SEGA Saturn game infamously goes for a ridiculous sum, so having the experience available on Switch for such a reasonable price is great. The game plays well, but a few issues with the music and graphics could do with some ironing out. It’s perhaps a little too complicated for its own good at times, but give it your time and consideration and you’ll find it rewards you greatly.

I don’t know if Family Man is for everyone. Its visual style is certainly modest. Its themes are darker than you might expect. The minigames and other activities are shallow enough that you might get tired of them. Your choices don’t mean nearly as much as you might hope. It’s an unusual game, but there’s a charm to it that I can’t deny. While some of what it’s doing is a sleight-of-hand magic trick, it’s one that has been pulled off fairly well.

If you’re satisfied with Clap Hanz as a subscription game on Apple Arcade, you don’t need to worry too much about Easy Come Easy Golf. It’s basically the same game. But if you want the game in a more permanent form, or you’re a Switch-only golfing fan who wants something a little light without the goofy chaos of modern Mario Golf, you’ll want to pick this game up. It’s well-made, content-rich, and enjoyable in a comfort food kind of way.

At least for my tastes, Splatoon 3 is a great new chapter in a fantastic series. While more of an evolution than a revolution, it adds enough new things to liven things up for veteran players while also being the new de facto point of entry for new players. I’m not really sure where Nintendo can take the series from here, but I suppose that’s a problem for a couple of years from now after the team has done its thing updating this game. For now, I think we all have enough room in our lives for another helping of colorful, charming, ink-flinging action.

Prinny Presents NIS Classics Volume 3: La Pucelle: Ragnarok / Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure gets these two vintage RPGs back out there, and I think that’s a good thing on principle alone. The games themselves are decent if somewhat dated due to their positions in the history of the company, and there aren’t any added features or extras to enjoy. I’m not impressed that this was yet another launch with an unavoidable crash bug in tow, but NIS patched it pretty quickly. Fans of tactical RPGs or Nippon Ichi Software will be satisfied with what they get here, if not necessarily thrilled.

I had no expectations at all going into TinyKin, but as soon as I started playing it, I was sucked completely into its world. The area designs are fantastic, encouraging you to root out and collect everything while presenting you with enough options that you never need to bang your head against any one thing. It also has a very charming presentation. The choice of using 2D sprites for the characters takes a little adjustment, but once you do? This is one of the better games in this genre you can find on the Switch.

This is a less than stellar package of two less than stellar games. Those who aren’t fussy about emulation accuracy can probably find some fun with Radical Rex‘s 16-bit version, but there’s practically nothing good to say about the game in its Game Boy form as presented here. More of a Dubious Dino than a Radical Rex.

If you want a solid but not spectacular Metroidvania-style game that won’t let you down or knock your socks off, Catmaze does the job. I don’t see myself returning to it all that often, but I don’t regret playing through it in the least. In a genre with so many different working parts, I suppose I have to give this one a little extra credit for not dropping the ball in any major way. It’s a completely competent Metroidvania-style game, even if it isn’t especially exciting.

Unless you’re completely burned out on the Darkest Dungeon variety of RPG, you’ll probably find something to like in Circus Electrique. The theme is strange enough to catch your attention, the mechanics are solid, and the added gameplay elements don’t ruin anything with their presence. The moment to moment dialogue is well-written, but the story as a whole could have been more interesting. I also think the difficulty curve could be a little smoother. Otherwise, it’s a somewhat unusual take on a concept that is becoming a bit well-worn by now, and worth checking out for fans of the genre.

It plays well enough, it has a nice sense of style to it, and it doesn’t overstay its welcome in terms of how far its mechanics will go. But if those jokes don’t land for you, know that they will never stop for the rest of the game. Consider how much of a problem that will be for you before wading in.

If you mean to seriously get into JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R, you’re probably better off heading over to one of the other platforms where it runs at 60 fps. This Switch port is solid enough to play, however, and JoJo fans will likely have a good time with it. Discriminating fighting game aficionados will probably want to look elsewhere for their Switch satisfaction, though.

I found enough things to like in Hell Pie that I could probably see my way to recommending it on other platforms. On Switch, there are just too many technical issues dragging down the experience for my liking. If you’re very tolerant of that kind of thing, you might still enjoy the game. It has some fun ideas, a crass but amusing sense of humor, and some interesting levels. But it’s hard to enjoy any of that when you miss a jump because the framerate took a dive and the camera went wacky at a critical moment.

I really enjoyed the story of Aquadine and its various routes. It’s well-written, the setting is unique, and the character interactions are interesting. Its mysteries are intriguing and the plot delivers well on them for the most part. The only thing that really bothered me is the way the characters would vibrate to express certain emotions. I’d rather have had them static than looking like they just stuck a fork in a toaster. Other than that, if you enjoy a good visual novel, you’ll probably like Aquadine.

The game runs nicely enough on the Switch, but handheld players will naturally have to plant themselves near an online connection point to play with others. And you will want to play with others, because it turns what is in single-player a very rough time management game into a properly enjoyable roguelite action-RPG experience. This “best with friends" quality means that Tribes of Midgard isn’t going to be for everyone, but those with the right conditions to enjoy the game will find plenty to like.

In its current state, Ooblets is an easy recommendation at its discounted launch price if you enjoy life and farming simulation games despite the performance issues. While it isn’t perfect even when played on Xbox Series X going by the bit I played there to compare, Ooblets does a great job of blending creature collecting and life simulation elements together with a ton of its own charm. I hope potential future updates can address the performance issues on Switch because Ooblets feels like a fantastic fit for the Switch’s library, and I look forward to seeing how it evolves over time.

ANNO: Mutationem is a good port of a great game. The flaws from the original are still present here, but the gameplay perfectly suits the Switch’s hybrid nature. It also can look absolutely stunning on the OLED display in handheld mode. If you aren’t sure about the performance or how it looks when played docked, I’d recommend downloading the free ANNO: Mutationem demo on the eShop. I’m glad ANNO: Mutationem finally arrived on Switch and hope it gets a physical release in the future.

Islets is a gorgeous, enjoyable example of the Metroidvania genre that feels in some ways like a throwback to the pre-Souls era in how it is set up and the tone it pursues. While it doesn’t make any substantial changes to the formula outside of its entertaining flying sections, it’s refreshingly solid all-around. Those on the hunt for a new game in this genre would do well to consider Islets.

Miss Kobayashi fans should enjoy the game, unless they really dislike the genre. It does the brand justice, and has lots of little bits fans will appreciate a lot. And if you happen to be both a shooter fan and a fan of the series, then you don’t need to listen to me at all. You’ll probably be fairly happy with what you get here. If you don’t fall into any of those categories, nothing this game does is going to change your mind.

Pac-Man World Re-PAC isn’t rendered unplayable by these performance problems, but they do mar an experience that needed all the shining up it could get to help make it palatable to newcomers. If you can look past the quirks of the original game’s design, if you can overlook the obvious technical issues, and if you can ignore the fact that you can find a lot of better 3D platformers on Switch at this price or lower, you will likely get some fun out of this release. It really should have been better, though.

I’m a big fan of Yars: Recharged. The first time I fired it up, I ended up playing it for the rest of the evening. Admittedly, I love the original game too. But I think this game does a wonderful job of adapting the basic loop of that classic and bringing in enough modern elements and new ideas to justify itself as something of a sequel. I really like its unusual blend of frantic shooting and calculated puzzle-solving, and I would happily recommend it to Atari fans and newcomers alike.

All up, Kirby’s Dream Buffet feels more like an extra mode you would find in a mainline Kirby game than something that can stand on its own. It’s amusing enough in short bursts with other players, but you’ll likely have seen all that’s worth seeing in a single session. Even as a party game, the lack of support for more than two players on one system makes it a little tough to recommend. The core idea isn’t bad and it’s certainly a polished experience, but it ends up being just a light snack rather than a filling meal.

This may well be Digital Eclipse’s finest collection yet, and is a must-have for any fans of beat-em-ups, the Turtles, or general gaming history.

Dusk Diver 2 builds on the original in its scope, visuals, and music, but is held back by its dungeons, quests, and some aspects of the combat. The Nintendo Switch version especially feels far too sluggish compared to the original. If you enjoyed Dusk Diver and want more of the world, Dusk Diver 2 on Switch is something you can consider when it gets a price drop. I would really recommend checking it out elsewhere though in its current state.

The biggest strength of Blossom Tales II: The Minotaur Prince is also its biggest failing, and it’s one that it fully shares with its predecessor. It is so busy being faithfully inspired by The Legend of Zelda that it can’t quite shake its shadow and become its own game. And the thing is, I’m not sure that it should. We don’t see many top-down Zelda games anymore, and most similar games either change too much or miss the mark in terms of quality. Maybe the best thing for Blossom Tales to be is that series that feeds an appetite that no one else is serving. If that is the case, then Blossom Tales II: The Minotaur Prince is every bit the sequel it should have been.

The general course layouts may lose their shine after a while, but the core gameplay and fun tricks you can pull off with Ace Cards ensure that the moment-to-moment action rarely lets you down. As long as you’re fine with the heavy cost of failure, you’ll likely get hours upon hours of joy from this curse.

Were it not so buggy, I would be giving Cult of the Lamb some of my highest praise. It’s weird in a lot of interesting ways, fun to play, and has some sharp ideas. It can make you laugh, it can make you think, and it will sometimes force you to make tough choices. I’m not sure what the state of the game is on other platforms, but right here and right now this Switch version has everything from little problems to the biggest issue of them all, so despite the enjoyment I got from the game I can’t recommend it with much vigor until some serious patches have been delivered.

On the whole, Arcade Paradise is a fine game. If you like the premise, I suspect you will like the game a lot. It has a few flaws but nothing that really hurts the core appeal of the game, and I always find these sorts of “retro games that weren’t" affairs to be fascinating. It also does a great job of nailing its 1990s setting, with lots of little details that help pull you into its world. A unique, enjoyable sim that is very difficult to put down.

As an interactive series of episodes you can watch, I don’t regret the time I spent here, and will definitely grab the soundtrack when it releases, but We Are OFK could’ve been more. Hopefully the team does release something else based on these characters in the future.

If you enjoy unique adventure games and charming stories, RPG Time: The Legend of Wright is an easy recommendation on Switch. It feels great to play in handheld mode, and I can’t get over how good the animation work and aesthetic is throughout the adventure. It initially might seem confusing in the screenshots, but this is the real deal. The only downside for some will be the game length at under 10 hours long.

I had a pleasant enough time with Voyage in spite of a couple of issues popping up. It’s aiming more to be an experience than to test your skills with difficult puzzles, and as long as you are okay with that, I think you’ll enjoy the ride well enough. I’m not sure how long it will stick in my memory, but as ephemeral confections go this one is satisfying enough.

Fans of Shin-chan, Bokunatsu, Attack of the Friday Monsters, or those who just enjoy a bit of slow-life low-pressure adventure will likely appreciate Shin chan: Me and the Professor on Summer Vacation. It could be a little fuller, and I don’t know how to feel about how it wraps up its story, but it’s unique, silly, and nostalgic in all the right ways.

Super Bullet Break has sound mechanics even if it doesn’t really bring anything new to the table. As is usually the case with this kind of game, it all comes down to making the best combinations of moves from the bullets you draw. The presentation is certainly different from what we usually see in this type of game, and as long as you’re okay with a fair bit of fanservice, you’ll find the art and overall production values agreeable. The story is goofy but it’s mostly just filler between the battles, so its light approach is acceptable. Super Bullet Break is no Slay the Spire, but it’s fine.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is the best game in the series yet, and despite a few issues like burying the player in tutorials and some story bits that could have been handled better, the game is a real treat for RPG fans. There’s more to do and more reasons to do it, and whether you’re coming off one or both of the previous games or jumping in fresh, you’ll find a suitably epic adventure waiting for you.

While the poor quality of the games was immediately evident when I started playing, it took even me a little bit of time to realize they were biting so hard off of pre-existing titles. But whoever you want to blame, at the end of it all this really isn’t a collection worth buying unless you have a bizarre fascination with the history of poorly-made copies.

Taking everything into account, I have a hard time recommending this over the mobile version. The online requirement is less of a bother there since you probably have some kind of internet connection available most of the time, the price is lower, and the game actually runs smoother. If a Switch is all you have and you don’t mind needing to be anchored to a wifi spot to play it, Hot Lap League has a lot of enjoyment to offer. But for this price, I feel like you can find other good racers on the eShop that will actually allow you to race on the go.

Bottom line, if you want the fullest possible package of Turrican games, pick up Turrican Anthology Vol. I and Vol. II. There are still a few games missing, but it’s as good as you can get right now. If you want to play the games with the most features and extras, the Anthology volumes are again your friend. But if you want the best bang for your buck, I think I’m still going to recommend Turrican Flashback. You get most of the games that matter and it costs less than a single Anthology volume. It’s also the only way to get all three of the main games in one set. I’m glad digital buyers have a chance to buy a more complete set by picking these two volumes up, but they’re a hard sell in terms of value when compared to Flashback.

Bottom line, if you want the fullest possible package of Turrican games, pick up Turrican Anthology Vol. I and Vol. II. There are still a few games missing, but it’s as good as you can get right now. If you want to play the games with the most features and extras, the Anthology volumes are again your friend. But if you want the best bang for your buck, I think I’m still going to recommend Turrican Flashback. You get most of the games that matter and it costs less than a single Anthology volume. It’s also the only way to get all three of the main games in one set. I’m glad digital buyers have a chance to buy a more complete set by picking these two volumes up, but they’re a hard sell in terms of value when compared to Flashback.

Despite the minor issues I have with the game’s iOS version, Hindsight is an essential if you enjoy emotional narratives. I love how it constantly has you interacting even with simple swipes as you experience great narration, music, and a memorable story. If you enjoy short stories, Hindsight is absolutely worth your time and one of my favorite stories in gaming this year. This is also my favorite game from Joel McDonald now, above Prune.

If you enjoy the time management/resource management of the aforementioned games, you’ll probably find a lot to like in Train Valley. The unavoidable control issues aren’t enough to bring down the experience too much, and once you get the hang of things you’ll be juggling trains like a professional. The charming presentation is distinctive and attractive, which certainly doesn’t hurt. Between the various maps and seasons of Classic Mode and the more relaxed (but still somewhat tense) nature of Sandbox Mode, there’s plenty to dig into here for puzzle fans. A solid port of a rather enjoyable game.

If you find yourself missing the good old days of action-based Castlevania games or are a big fan of Touhou Project, you’ll likely find some value in Koumajou Remilia. It’s not as exciting now as it was back in the day, and the novelty of paying homage to Symphony of the Night is a ship that has well and truly sailed in modern times. The fundamentals are sound enough, and the boss battles assuredly bring the heat that you may find lacking in the stages leading up to them. There are better 2D action games on the Switch at cheaper prices, but few will scratch the Castlevania itch in exactly the same way.

The scenarios vary in quality from one to the next, and your individual tastes are probably going to influence how well you like each one. But Live A Live as a whole really cannot be denied. It’s an amazing game that was clearly ahead of its time, because all it needed was a bit of a face lift to make it feel like something that came out in the present year. With how big Xenoblade Chronicles 3‘s shadow looms over us at this time, it might be easy to overlook Live A Live. That would be a mistake, friends. If you love RPGs, don’t miss this one.

On its best day, the arcade version of Avenging Spirit is a clever game that doesn’t quite click the pieces together to become a great one. No, it left that for its Game Boy port. Throw in some emulation errors and the lack of desirable features like online leaderboards, and this ends up being a very middle-of-the-road affair. I love the many options Ratalaika has given us access to here, but with the actual game itself running weirdly, there’s only so much praise I can give for getting some of the bells and whistles right. It’s okay enough for fans of the arcade game, but only just.

These no-frills rereleases of the games are highly enjoyable in a vacuum, but when measured up against similar games in the genre available on the Switch, they feel lacking. If you’ve checked off the big-pants games in the action-RPG looter genre on the system and you don’t mind the price, then and only then should you consider grabbing Dark Alliance II.

While Raging Blasters isn’t out there breaking any shoot-em-up molds, it pulls together a lot of much-loved ideas into a sensible, enjoyable whole. More casual players will appreciate the somewhat gentle nature of the default arcade mode, while those who enjoy a solid score attack game will certainly find plenty to keep them coming back. Another excellent piece of work from Terarin.

Ultimately, Redout 2 is a solid futuristic hovercraft racer. It’s fast, challenging, beautiful, and loaded with content. The Switch version dulls some of the visual shine and framerate issues can affect the gameplay, so you’re probably better off playing the game on other platforms unless the portability is a make-or-break feature for you. Given how infrequently we get games of this type that are even a little good, you may want to bite on it despite its technical issues.

Aside from the neo-retro presentation and moving some actions to separate buttons, River City Saga: Three Kingdoms delivers almost exactly what its concept suggests. It plays like one of the best beat-em-ups from thirty years ago, with all that implies. The farcical retelling of the Three Kingdoms provides a fun excuse for the action, and you’ll have a whole lot of goofy thrills if you opt to play it via the extensive co-op multiplayer options. I could do without the terrible platforming bits and I wish it had the courage to shake the formula up a little more, but those who love River City will find this scratches the itch well enough.

The Switch and PS5 versions of Bright Memory: Infinite ship with the cosmetic DLC included from the start, which definitely helps compared to the PC version that has them sold separately, but it is worth keeping in mind that you should expect about 2 hours for the campaign here and a story that isn’t really anything special. If that is ok with you, Bright Memory: Infinite is an impressive release for a one-man studio with its visuals and fun combat. It might be worth waiting on a discount, but if you’ve wanted something to satiate your desire for a new short FPS on Switch, Bright Memory: Infinite will give you that.

Every time I found myself having a bit of fun with XEL, something would happen to ruin it. A weird bug here, a tiny hard-to-spot thing there, or just some vexing performance issues. Without those problems, I’d give the game a mild recommendation to action-adventure fans. With them, it’s hard to be very positive about it at all. There are so many great games of this sort on the Switch that it’s hard to muster much enthusiasm for a merely decent one, let alone one that trips over its own feet so often.

Table of Tales: The Crooked Crown offers exactly what it appears to: a cozy little single-player tabletop RPG experience. While there is certainly a lot of shine in the way it looks, sounds, and moves, the heart of the game is simply that thing that Tin Man Games has been giving us for well over ten years now. It’s an interesting branching narrative where you feel a true sense of agency in the outcome, spiced with a proper sense of danger to keep you on your toes. If you’re a fan of Tin Man’s previous work or simply like the sound of this game’s premise, you’re likely to have a good time here.

With rhythm games, I’m really looking for two things at the end of the day. First, are the gameplay mechanics easy to pick up, but scale up in challenge well? And second, is the music good? LOUD passes both of those tests well. The rocking soundtrack is pleasing to the ears, and while the gameplay isn’t the most original thing I’ve played, it does its job the way it should. Throw in a high-quality presentation and a story that managed to hold my interest and you’ve got a pretty cool game.

I think fans of the genre will find a lot to like here. WayForward has brought its usual level of production values to the genre, and its experience in making 2D action games of all sorts shines through. I’d probably recommend Blazing Chrome or even Super Cyborg over this as far as Contra-inspired games go, but I don’t think we’re so drowning in good games of that sort that we should turn up our noses at this fine specimen.

Super UFO Fighter is enjoyable for a short while, but in testing this with my family we’d had our fill after about a half hour. The gameplay got stale quickly, and every match started to feel the same. The single player mode exhausts its ideas equally quickly, and while I appreciate that there is an online multiplayer mode here, I wasn’t able to find a single opponent in all of my attempts. I didn’t have a bad time playing the game, but it’s all just too thin to recommend regardless of whether you mean to play alone or with others.

At the absolute minimum, Overrogue shows that KEMCO and EXE-Create can do some good work when they venture outside of their usual comfort zones. There’s an energy and thoughtfulness to this game that makes it feel like the developers were actually sinking their teeth into making it. The best of the best in this style of game are tough to touch, but this game is good enough that deckbuilding roguelite fans should put it somewhere on the shopping list even if not necessarily at the top.

Despite the repeat titles and lack of online multiplayer, Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium is an easy recommendation to fans of classic arcade games. With a solid range of titles across multiple titles and levels of fame, this set is bound to include plenty of games for everyone to enjoy. The first Capcom Arcade Stadium had a lot of cool features, extras, and options, and this follow-up doesn’t deviate from that. I’d strongly suggest grabbing the full-game bundle, but it’s nice to have the option to dabble in the specific games you want if you’re on a budget. It’s a quality package at a great price, and I wish Capcom’s arcade rivals would take some notes from these sets.

Despite initially not feeling like I’d care much for the setting, I enjoyed most of my time with Birushana: Rising Flower of Genpei on Nintendo Switch. It is repetitive with how some aspects play out in different routes, but is worth playing if you’re looking for something with a historical setting like this. One thing is certain. I’m hoping Idea Factory International continues to localize more otome games because the subgenre of visual novels definitely seems to be doing great on Switch after some uncertainty after the end of the PS Vita.

Little Noah: Scion of Paradise is a surprisingly fun take on the side-scrolling roguelite genre, with plenty of personality courtesy of its charming character designs and solid gameplay mechanics that are perhaps a little easier to come to grips with than those found in some of its peers. While I wouldn’t consider it among the best in its category, it’s a very well-made game that is worth playing if you’ve enjoyed games like Dead Cells or Rogue Legacy.

Barring the font that makes some aspects of Horgihugh and Friends feel cheap, the only problem I have with the release is the price point. While an expanded version of a game should cost more, the price point for the North American version is a bit too much for it to be an easy recommendation right now. There are so many quality shoot ‘em ups for half of the asking price, that I can’t recommend this in its current state without that big caveat. The retail release being more expensive is understandable given cartridge costs, but this is definitely too expensive for what it is on the eShop.

Forklift Extreme is fun enough, but it’s also very repetitive. It can also be very aggravating trying to get top marks due to how easy it is to bump some small object or another. I imagine if you’re a forklift fan, you won’t get burnt out on the whole affair as quickly as I did. Even with that in mind, I can’t say I didn’t have some fun with this one. It’s more intuitive to play than the countless Simulator games that have released on the Switch, but still nails down the feel of what it’s trying to get across in a sufficiently complex manner.

Movement is stiff, you can’t see very far ahead of you, enemies fly at you almost out of nowhere, and the level designs are more perfunctory than interesting. An interesting relic of the past, but not much more than that outside of its original context.

If I have to say who this game is for, it’s probably best matched up with people who enjoy adventure thrillers and also like shoot-em-ups. Even for that somewhat narrow range of players, it’s more of a good game than a great one.

Ultimately, this is a pair of good remakes of two very strong games, and I can only hope this time we don’t have to say good-bye to Klonoa again when it’s all said and done.

While it has a few issues that I hope can be fixed in potential updates, Dicey Dungeons is plain brilliant and a perfect fit on iOS. If you aren’t a fan of deckbuilders or don’t like any RNG, this might not be for you. If you enjoyed Slay the Spire, I think you will love Dicey Dungeons.

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes is another strong Warriors game for the Switch, and it certainly holds up on the technical end a lot better than Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity did even if it’s not perfect. The heavier lean on RPG and strategic elements compared to the usual Warriors game helps it feel more like a Fire Emblem game even if the nuts-and-bolts action is pure Warriors fare. If you loved Three Houses and want to spend more time with its cast, this is a great way to do so, and if you’re fan of the general Warriors series you’ll also find plenty to get into here.

If you enjoy logic puzzles and don’t mind the fact that you’ll probably feel hungry after playing, Freshly Frosted is a wonderful game. It’s easy to pick up, ramps up its difficulty perfectly, offers tons of puzzles to test your skills, and has a fantastic sense of style to it. It’s an easy recommendation to anyone looking for something to tease their brain with.

Perhaps it could have explored those ideas more deeply or in a more satisfying manner, but even if doesn’t quite reach greatness, Gamedec is an adventure game worth checking out.

Even in this improved form, Firegirl: Hack ‘n Splash Rescue DX has a lot of rough edges that you’ll have to learn to accept if you want to enjoy it. It has a few small technical issues, a somewhat repetitive gameplay loop that feels like it needs a bit more spice for its runtime, and very tight timers that don’t always pair well with the procedurally-generated maps. Still, those tight timers can sometimes lead to a satisfying level of tension, especially when things really start to come apart and you make a last-minute escape. There’s a real charm to Firegirl, even if you’re going to get a little roasted in pursuit of it.

Beyond the technical flaws, the biggest problem Bassmaster Fishing 2022 has is in where its attempts at realism clash with its more arcade-ish elements. Realistic fishing tournament goals run counter to the more casual reality of how lures work. The graphics look great but your boat behaves like an air hockey puck. A whole lot of waiting around and finding good spots, but a minigame-like focus when it comes time to catch the fish. This conflicted approach means that both fans of sim games and fans of more casual fishing experiences are going to have to accept some compromises. Nevertheless, fishing fans will likely find enough to enjoy here to make it worth the trip.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Wreckfest experience on your big screen, you’ll likely want to look at other versions of the game over this one. But if you’re looking for a version you can take with you, this Switch port of Wreckfest is more than respectable enough to suit the job. For those completely new to the game, you’ll find this to be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a somewhat more destructive racing experience than the norm.

If you’ve enjoyed inkle’s other games like 80 Days, Heaven’s Vault, or Overboard!, you’ll find plenty to like in Steve Jackson’s Sorcery!. The way the developer transformed these already-memorable gamebooks into bigger, more interactive adventures is nothing short of amazing, and you’ll find plenty of reasons to replay them again and again. The games have made an excellent conversion to the Switch, and the price is very fair for how much is here. RPG fans will also want to take note, as the games have considerable chops in that regard as well. A great port of an outstanding series.

AI: The Somnium Files – nirvanA Initiative may not be the unexpected surprise that the first game was, but it lives up to the impressive bar of quality set by its predecessor in a way few games of its genre manage to. This Switch version has a few technical issues, but nothing that should keep you from enjoying the game here if this is where you want to play it.

While Sonic Origins certainly could have been a more thorough and polished celebration of the early days of the Most Famous Hedgehog, I think it’s still worth recommending. If I earnestly ask myself if I would pay ten dollars a pop for standalone Retro Engine Sonic games on my Switch, the answer is yes. The minor differences don’t bother me much at all, but I can see them getting on the nerves of others. The music replacement is disappointing but understandable. But with four exceptionally enjoyable platformers included and a wealth of extra goodies to sift through, Sonic Origins makes for a compelling package.

As unusual as the first game was in its time, this sequel is an even rarer jewel. It adheres doggedly to what was established in the first game, increasing the depth with new mechanics and variables without stepping too far away from what worked. It’s also absolutely massive, with a full RPG’s worth of story to play through. If you’re looking for a great premium game to pick away at without worrying about gacha pulls, subscriptions, or buying bags of gems, give Hero Emblems II a go. It’s worth it.

It’s an Apple Arcade-like choice, but the price is fair bit higher. Is Poinpy worth that? It’s a question I can’t answer for you, but I can tell you that this is a superb mobile game. It fits the format perfectly, it’s easy and satisfying to dig into, and like Downwell it seems to give you back more the more you put into it. It’s a reason to pay attention to Netflix’s gaming initiative, and is honestly a fair bit more exciting than anything we’ve seen on Apple Arcade of late.

If you’re into the concept and come into the game fully aware that it’s very much a budget affair, I think you’ll have a good time with Metal Max Xeno Reborn. It doesn’t try to be more than it is, which is an RPG where you ride around a post-apocalyptic open world Tokyo in cool tanks and blow up weird mutated monsters. That’s either good enough for you, or it isn’t.

Capcom Fighting Collection is a pretty good collection of games, including some titles that we haven’t seen in these specific forms on home consoles before. It leans a little hard on the Darkstalkers games with some very slight variants that feel like they are padding the number out a bit. The overlap with other collections and my bad experiences with the online play keep me from recommending this too enthusiastically, but even with all of that taken into account, this is still worth picking up for fans of Capcom’s fighters.

If you’re interested in Mario Strikers: Battle League for multiplayer, you’ll likely be happy with what you get here. The core gameplay is fast and highly enjoyable, and the game has just about any kind of multiplayer set-up you’d want covered. Those looking to play alone will unfortunately find the game lacking in things to do, with its main solo content easily completed within an hour or two. Pair that with a light roster and very little in the way of interesting things to unlock, and you end up with a solid game that feels like it could have been so much more.

I couldn’t stop playing Shredder’s Revenge until I finished it, and the minute I did, I played through it again. And then I played through it one more time. And then I pulled my family in and we played through it once more. I keep firing it up to play my favorite stages when I’ve got a bit of free time. It’s an outstanding TMNT game, a jaw-dropping take on the Konami-style beat-em-up, and more pure goofy fun than I could ever have anticipated it to be.