While the end credits rolled, I felt hollow, hopeless, frustrated, and downright disgusted. I'll never play through it again. With that being said; there's no denying that what The Last of Us Part II accomplishes with its visuals, mood, and gameplay is nothing short of amazing.

Playing Horizon Zero Dawn on PlayStation 5 is such an excellent experience that it made me excited for the upcoming Forbidden West and keep in mind; I rarely get excited for upcoming games. If you still haven't played it yet, I wholeheartedly recommend it.

God's Trigger is the best twin-stick shooter that I've ever played. With tons of variety and cooperative gameplay that's as rewarding as it is exhilarating, I simply can't recommend this indie masterpiece highly enough.

Fans of the Bravely series will have a blast with Bravely Default II. It may not stray far from its predecessors but it does deliver another thoroughly enjoyable journey with updated graphics and a whole new story with loveable characters.

Level-5 has done it again as they delivered another thoroughly enjoyable JRPG thus proving that the genre isn't going anywhere. If you're not too disheartened by the lack of the slower-paced turn-based battle system and the monster collecting that was featured in the original then you'll have a ton of fun building your very own kingdom and traversing the stunning world of Ni no Kuni II.

Valfaris is a straight-up indie masterpiece. If you're a fan of 2D action games then you'd be a goof not to play it.

Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key is the best-looking game in the franchise and it's so full of heart and wonder that anyone with a soft spot for delightful adventures will easily fall in love with it. I can't wait to see what Gust has in store next.

A sprawling action-filled epic adventure with a compelling story and a living, breathing world that creates real consequences for your actions and failures. Its post-game Shadow Wars content is understandably polarizing but that shouldn't stop anyone from enjoying the core experience.

With an epic story, lasting consequences for decisions, and combat that's more enjoyable than ever, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is sure to satisfy. Ultimately, it isn't without faults yet it's still a top-notch entry in the series and one of 2019's best games.

In the end, Resident Evil Village is not a perfect experience but it is still an awesome one and easily the best of the recent games in the series. It's scary, suspenseful, grounded in relatable human drama, and an overall blast to play; I highly recommend giving it a shot.

Blaster Master Zero is the definition of a retro remake done right. Inti Creates did a phenomenal job of improving every aspect of the original to make in an enjoyable experience for existing fans and newcomers alike so hop in your tank and start having a blast.

Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World may be lacking in a couple of areas when you compare it to 2015's platforming gem but it more than makes up for these aspects by including a handful of fantastic new additions. Even if you already own and love the Wii U version, Poochy & Yoshi will feel right at home on your 3DS, too.

These Nintendo Switch 2 Editions have all been very impressive but Super Mario Bros. Wonder - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park is the most jam-packed one to date, especially with its super-imaginative multiplayer challenges and epic Koopaling encounters.

Masterpiece.

Atelier Mysterious Trilogy Deluxe Pack is a wonderful collection of 3 excellent games with oodles of additional content. If you still haven't played these delightful RPGs then you need to add this compilation to your collection.

A Way Out is possibly the best cooperative video game ever created. Its movie-quality cinematography, intuitive and varied gameplay, and engaging story full of unique stand-out scenarios make it one incredibly memorable interactive experience.

The Last of Us Part II Remastered is generally what you'd expect for a current-generation iteration of a 3.5-year-old game. There's definitely enough extra content and enhancements to make it worthwhile but only if you're not burned-out by the original.

With the core games being as stellar as they are, the fact that Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack has so many additions, refinements, and included DLC is just awesome. This may very well be the most jam-packed RPG trilogy in all of gaming and it's all just so delightful.

Playing Kirby and the Forgotten Land made me realise that I've never seen any series transition smoother to 3D gameplay. Even with its new dimension, it's undeniably Kirby through-and-through and also one of the best games in the franchise.

If you're new to the mainline Fire Emblem games albeit an enthusiast of SRPGs in general like I am then Engage will surely wow you with its tight old-school gameplay, incredible presentation, and fantastic cast of characters. Heck, it might even turn you into a dedicated fan.

If you enjoy rhythm games or are simply curious about the genre then I highly recommend playing Groove Coaster: Wai Wai Party!!!! From its amazing music to its challenging yet intuitive gameplay, it's a prime example of what the genre is capable of.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features some of the best track variety in the genre as well as a visceral driving experience that has you seamlessly take to the skies, water, and road. If you love kart racers, it's an absolute must-play.

Gears 5 is the best Gears of War game so far as it features one thrilling campaign and plenty of exciting online multiplayer modes. In fact, it's so much fun that I highly recommend playing it if you're not already a Gears fan so you can see what the series is capable of.

Despite some of my issues with OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0, there was simply only one conclusion I could draw after finishing the game: the future of the series is bright and I couldn't be happier about that.

Blade Chimera is one of the best Metroidvanias that you can play thanks to its jam-packed gameplay, stellar presentation, and rewarding supplementary content. It may not be the longest or most challenging game in the genre but it's definitely unforgettable.

Yoku's Island Express is the best indie game that I've played this year so far. Who would've guessed that Metroidvania pinball would be such an addictive and enjoyable formula? Factor in the delightful visuals and sound and you're left with a must-have adventure.

If you still haven't played NieR: Automata then this Become as Gods Edition is a great excuse to finally get your hands on Yoko Taro's latest stylish action-packed tale.

Metroid Dread is one of the best Metroidvania games out there with its awesome collection of abilities and its action-packed E.M.M.I. areas. It may not provide as much challenge as old-school fans would expect but it's still an undeniably incredible adventure.

Even after 10 years, Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered is bursting with some of the most thrilling racing gameplay out there.

When it comes to action-packed gameplay and breathtaking audio, NieR: Automata goes above and beyond almost every game in existence. It may have its issues with its less than stellar open-world but it remains a wholly phenomenal and memorable experience.

In defiance of a time when many game series are opting to mature, Bayonetta 3 raises a giant middle finger and that's awesome. Believe it or not, it's even more over-the-top than you'd expect so strap on some high heels and get ready for some action.

Fans of fantasy RPGs will absolutely love their time with Divinity: Original Sin II Definitive Edition. Its unforgiving yet rewarding campaign is one of the most satisfying adventures that you'll ever partake in.

Without a doubt, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a much more enjoyable game than the original and it shows off PS5's performance brilliantly. It's too bad that it isn't longer because I loved every minute of it.

Hades II is exactly what you'd expect from a much-refined sequel and even though it's been 5 years since the original, you'll be immediately drawn back into the iconic action-packed gameplay, especially thanks to its unique combat foundations.

Lumines Arise is one of my favourite puzzle games of all time with classic gameplay and flashy new visuals that really pop in VR. Whether you're new to these games or not, you're bound to adore what's in store, especially if you enjoy achieving higher and higher scores.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is an impressive package to say the least. Although it doesn't quite elevate the already established core gameplay to the next level, what's here is still a frantic and fun fighter that anyone can easily enjoy.

Aloy's journey through the Forbidden West is a grand one complete with awe-inspiring environments as you take down new machines with an expanded arsenal. Although the story is lacking the personal touch of the first game, if you're looking for an action-filled adventure with thoroughly enjoyable gameplay then you certainly can't go wrong with Horizon Forbidden West.

Splatoon 3 is a fitting sequel to an awesome series that'll have you happily spray your ink all over the place. It may not do anything particularly revolutionary but does it really have to? No... but it would be cool if it did, right?

BRAVELY DEFAULT FLYING FAIRY HD Remaster makes for a great excuse to re-play one of the best RPGs out there which takes job systems to a whole other level and delivers a top-tier battle system that's complemented with superbly attractive visuals.

AI: The Somnium Files - nirvanA Initiative is a worthy sequel with a gripping story and an expanded cast of loveable characters. Plus, the new re-enactment mode adds an extra layer of gameplay to help keep things fresh and interesting but it still suffers from a lack of a hint system that can make progressing through the otherwise intriguing story occasionally feel like a chore.

SUPER BOMBERMAN COLLECTION is bursting with explosive old-school fun that has held up outstandingly well over the decades. Whether you're playing it solo or with a couchful of chums, you'll be in for one superbly entertaining time.

Ace Attorney Investigations Collection delivers a great helping of entertaining crime-solving mysteries without the court drama. Miles Edgeworth deserves his time in the spotlight and this is a must-buy for Ace Attorney fans.

Blaster Master Zero 3 is a rewarding and memorable conclusion to an epic trilogy of incredible games. So, if you're bored with the recent wave of hand-holding AAA titles, you'll definitely enjoy its old-school level of challenge that's set in one amazingly intricate world.

Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land presents an expansive and rewarding journey and I'm excited to see what the future has in store for the capable and lovely Yumia. This proves yet again that Atelier is up there with the best that RPGs have to offer.

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a creative marvel with a ton of ways to unleash your imagination within a huge world. However, it doesn't fix the main issues of the first game nor does it carry over its perfect balance of structure and creativity.

PRAGMATA is a visceral and rewarding action game set within an intriguing world that will make you want to keep coming back for more.

Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe took an already great game (perhaps the most underrated game in the series) and made it even better with sharp visuals, oodles of extras, and a brand new mode that allows you to play fun mini-games from Kirby's past titles.

Days Gone is an exceptionally refined and gorgeous open-world action adventure game. It doesn't bring a whole lot new to the table but what it does offer is hours upon hours of exciting gameplay and a layered (albeit often overly verbose) narrative.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon is a massive game with oodles of familiar and fresh characters, locales, mechanics, and quests. It can actually be a bit too much at times yet it all comes together to form one of the best-crafted modern RPGs.

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles takes an already incredible SRPG and makes it even better with plenty of modern niceties and full voice acting. Hey, you can finally learn how to pronounce the characters' names and that's worth it alone.

It would be a mistake to dismiss Persona 5 Strikers as a mere spin-off. Although the battle system is definitely different to a typical Persona game, Strikers delivers an experience that fans of the series will love; perhaps even more than Persona 5 itself.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a wonderful Metroidvania that manages to be both beautiful and challenging. If you enjoyed Ori and the Blind Forest then you're in for one impressive treat with this sequel.

When it comes to 2D action games, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more satisfying experience than Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX. From its spot-on presentation to its high-octane action, it's a prime example of 2D action done right.

The WipEout series is a shining example of how to keep racing exciting with many variations and an awesome visual style. The classic gameplay holds up beautifully so if you're craving some fast-paced races then Omega Collection is more than enough to satisfy.

Neon White is the 2nd best indie I've played this year so far. With a brilliant combination of genres, you're sure to spend hours upon hours mastering stage after stage as you uncover more about its very strange cast of characters.

Aven Colony is easy to recommend partly because there's so little else like it on console but also because it's an excellent and engrossing example of the genre. Whichever platform you play on, you'll have fun creating a new frontier in outer space.

GRADIUS ORIGINS is a must-have collection for any shoot 'em up fan; heck, the super-fun SALAMANDER III makes it worth the price of admission alone and when you consider just how many extras and options are packed in, you'd be silly not to get it.

Trails of Cold Steel III is a phenomenal RPG that genre fans need to play. After completing it and watching how it ends, I absolutely cannot wait to play the fourth and final game in this incredible series.

Lumines is the most addictive puzzle game that I've ever played and this Remastered version is perfect for hardcore fans and newcomers alike. Here's hoping Enhance Games are working on a true sequel to this epic puzzler series.

2D action games don't get much better than what Azure Striker Gunvolt Trilogy Enhanced has in store so if you're an old-school gamer, you have to play these games. There may not be much new for fans but this is still a phenomenal package nonetheless.

For the awesome games alone, Grandia HD Collection is worth checking out for any RPG fan. Although it could use a lot more content, fine-tuning, and options to reward long-time fans such as myself, what's here is still a treasure trove of delightful RPG goodness.

The Evil Within 2 is a tense and challenging game that still manages to remain accessible. The addition of open-world exploration is a huge success and it helps to create an overall excellent action-filled survival horror experience.

Hades is in the upper echelon of roguelikes so if you enjoy action-packed combat, concise yet engaging stories, and unlocking rewarding goodies then you'll have a phenomenal amount of fun trying to escape the Underworld.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a gorgeous and enormous open world game that you can easily get immersed in while the hours tick away. Its amazing visuals, intricate world, and realistic cast of characters make it a must-have game for this generation.

I'm very happy that Freedom Planet 2 not only lives up to its phenomenal predecessor but surpasses it in many ways. With stellar gameplay, oodles of supplementary mechanics and content, and a bubbly cast of characters that you'll love; it's one wonderful game.

Insomniac Games created something very special with Marvel's Spider-Man. Controlling Spidey to swing through NYC and beat up criminals while experiencing a memorable story campaign makes for one of the most satisfying experiences in modern gaming.

Touhou Luna Nights takes the visual style of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and mixes in a unique blend of puzzle-based exploration and combat to create one brilliant Metroidvania. I highly recommend it to any fan of the genre.

Whether you played the original Vita game or not, Tokyo Xanadu eX+ is such a phenomenal action RPG dungeon crawler that every fan of the genre needs to check out with its satisfying fast-paced team-based combat, great soundtrack, and charming world.

Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo is an absurdly great indie Zelda-like that even rivals iconic overhead action adventure games with its charming world, incredibly satisfying gameplay, and oodles of extras that are always exciting to discover. Are you still reading this? Go, play it now.

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster is a great excuse to play 2 classics, especially Suikoden II which is one of the best RPGs ever made. Recruiting characters is still extremely enjoyable and it sets it apart from other RPGs so here's hoping for much more Suikoden in the future.

It really is amazing how well Railway Empire works as a real-time railroad-building sim for console. So, if its concept appeals to you and you don't yet own it, picking up this Complete Collection with its oodles of DLC is a must.

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is one of the best games of the year. From its clever gameplay concoction to its gorgeous presentation, excellent sense of humour, and rewarding character abilities; this is one outstanding seafaring adventure.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is an absolutely incredible game so if you haven't played it yet, this HD iteration makes for a great excuse to finally give it a go. Those who still own it on Wii might want to hold out, though, because it's surely not a huge step up.

Undernauts: Labyrinth of Yomi is up there with Stranger of Sword City, Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls, and Demon Gaze on my short list of favourite dungeon crawlers of all time. It may be gruesome and occasionally perplexing but holy hot damn, is it rewarding.

When it comes to co-op games, you can't do much better than The Lara Croft Collection. It's an absolute blast whenever you play it with a friend whether you're working together or laughing your asses off while blowing each other up with carefully-placed bombs.

I must say, The Phantom Thieves surely stole my heart as I've had a ton of fun with Persona 5. However, a few nagging features and the fact that the dungeons could use a little more complexity means that it doesn't quite top my list of favourite JRPGs.

Anima: Gate of Memories - The Nameless Chronicles is undoubtedly a great RPG with little downsides. It has fluid combat, plenty of loot to collect, a haunting story, and amazing enemy variety.

Although it doesn't take full advantage of what the 3DS is capable of, Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn is a must-have portable version of a top-notch Wii game complete with plenty of impressive extra content that complements an already great 2D platformer.

No matter how you slice it, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time marks the return of a gaming icon in a masterful way as it manages to take risks while offering familiar gameplay. I love its high degree of challenge and hope to one day achieve 100% completion which may be quite a tall order but the fact that I'm compelled to do so just goes to show how much fun this long-awaited sequel is.

Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon is a superb puzzle game that's much more enjoyable than it has any right being. Plus, no matter which kind of puzzle gameplay you prefer, the wide variety of options will allow you to enjoy it at whichever pace you prefer.

POPUCOM is a top-notch co-op game that'll keep you and your chums delighted for hours upon hours. With a colourful and cute game world that's welcoming and bubbly and a superb blend of puzzle, action, and platforming fun, it's sure to pop straight to your heart.

As with most SaGa games, Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven isn't for everyone but those who enjoy it will love it a lot. Spanning generations and a huge stand-out game world, it's one of the grandest RPGs ever made.

Lego City Undercover remains a unique game in such a sizable series. Although there's no GamePad accessory to pair with this iteration and some of the videos are of lower quality, it doesn't take away from the great amount of fun to be had in Lego City.

Death's Gambit has all the makings of a fantastic 2D Souls-like experience. Getting through the campaign right now requires a bit of patience due to glitches so hopefully, White Rabbit will refine the experience to ensure players can get the most out of it.

Knights and Bikes presents a superb adventure that will definitely stick with you for a long time. You never want some games to end and in Knights and Bikes' case, the characters will make you never want to say goodbye. No matter where Nessa and Demelza go, I definitely want to follow along. Now, excuse me while I go hunt down every piece of merch for this game; I need all of it.

If you enjoy fast-paced 2D action games where you try to complete levels as quickly as possible then you'll absolutely love everything that Aeon Drive has to offer. In fact, as it stands, it's one of the best indie games that I've played in a very long time.

Blue Prince is a unique puzzle game that presents a perfect mix of luck and strategy that'll make you keep coming back for just one more run.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV is an awe-inspiring love letter to loyal fans of the franchise. The enormous cast of characters, grand-scale story, and memorable adventure makes for a wonderful conclusion to this epic long-running tale.

As someone who's played every game in the trilogy, I must say that Atelier Lydie & Suelle: The Alchemists and the Mysterious Paintings ties it all together in a masterful way. I'm excited to see what Gust has in store for their next trilogy of delightful adventures.

As a long-time gamer who's stuck in the past, I must say that Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration is one of the best compilations ever produced. From its expansive museums to its wide variety of classic games and hidden gems, it really is the cat's pajamas.

Azure Striker Gunvolt: Striker Pack is a wonderful collection of a couple of the best 2D action games ever made. If you're a fan of the genre and have yet to experience GV's adventures then this is definitely a must-buy compilation.

If you're a fan of the original Legend of Zelda and don't already own the vanilla Ittle Dew 2 then Ittle Dew 2+ is a must-buy adventure that's bursting with charm in a vibrant, memorable, and puzzle-filled world.

If you enjoyed the previous entries then you'll absolutely love Mary Skelter Finale. It's so jam-packed with content, cleverly designed scenarios, and incredible characters that you'll find it hard to put down even after hours of bloody good dungeon crawling.

Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is a hard game not to love. Even the most cynical and jaded gamers would have to jump through a lot of rotating hoops to call this fun-filled extravaganza anything less than a revolution in online gaming.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder certainly lives up to its name by offering a spectacle-filled and simply magical experience where you never know what sort of clever twist will pop-up next. Plus, it has a surprising level of challenge for anyone wanting to test their platforming skills.

Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics is sure to provide hours of entertainment whether you prefer playing solo, online, or with local chums. Seeing as it's bursting with tons of enjoyable games, this is one must-have collection.

Games don't get much more enjoyable and funnier than Luigi's Mansion 3. Its charming game world and characters will crack you up as the gameplay remains a real hoot from start to finish. As a result, it's yet another well-deserved feather in Nintendo's cap.

LUNAR Remastered Collection is a fantabulous package of 2 of the best lighthearted retro RPGs ever made. With impeccable localisation that's filled with hilarity, bubbly characters, and unforgettable moments; I highly recommend this compilation to all of my fellow merry chums.