Although I prefer Beyond the Myth by a slight margin, Etrian Odyssey Nexus offers a familiar and rewarding dungeon crawling adventure that retro RPG fans will surely appreciate. Now that the series is done on 3DS, here's hoping we can play the next one on Switch.

Halo Wars: Definitive Edition is a solid game for series fans although real-time strategy enthusiasts may be put off by its simplistic gameplay formula. In the end, I'm surprised how well it holds up as it's a wholly worthwhile game even eight years after its initial release.

If you're not turned off by Songbird Symphony's lack of challenge then it's sure to provide plenty of lighthearted entertainment.

Planet Coaster: Console Edition is the kind of game that's great fun at its core but being able to get the most out of it will require a lot of patience. So, it's worth playing if you enjoy fine-tuning every intricacy of a park and don't mind getting used to its controls.

Even though Disc Room is a fun game, its design suffers from difficulty that ultimately relies on randomness more than anything else.

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.

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.

If you sincerely appreciate masterful visuals, pitch-perfect audio, and visceral story-telling then Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is about as perfect of a game as you can get. However, those looking for substance gameplay-wise will wish there was much more to it.

After playing a couple of great AAA 3D platformers earlier this year, I'm absolutely blown away that I enjoyed Kena: Bridge of Spirits even more. With thoroughly challenging fast-paced combat, rewarding puzzles, and a breathtaking world; it's one phenomenal game.

Grand Mountain Adventure Wonderlands is one of those indies that's far better than you'd imagine. With an open-ended campaign that you'll relish exploring while finding the next suitable challenge, the hours will pass on by as your skills become better and better.

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes blends the classic Musou formula with the strategic aspect of its namesake impressively well. Throw in a story that's more immersive than you'd expect and you're left with one great Warriors spin-off.

Playing Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition will bring back memories of simpler JRPGs that offered fun characters, engaging stories, and colourful worlds. Thankfully, the few issues that make it show its age don't take much away from its overall enjoyment.

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.

Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon is one of the most visually impressive games that I've ever played. It may not offer much of a challenge but its undemanding gameplay will allow you to more easily appreciate its gorgeous storybook world.

SIGNALIS does a decent job of offering a retro survival horror experience yet it doesn't do much to make it stand out from the crowd.

With loads of variety, challenging core gameplay, and a delightful presentation, Vitamin Connection offers a healthy dose of fun.

Snipperclips may be a charming little cooperative puzzler but its lack of content and tendency to be more annoying than fun makes it a difficult game to widely recommend. If you're desperate for another Switch title then it may be worth downloading. Everyone else would be better off waiting for something more cutting-edge.

If you're a fan of 2D platformers and enjoy playing games with other folks then Ultimate Chicken Horse is simply a must-buy game. With a seamless blend of platforming, construction, and strategy; how could you pass up on this barn full of fun?

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.

For all that Ys IX: Monstrum Nox does that's new, there's no denying that it's still a tried-and-true Ys game at its core. Although I wish it took more risks with its setting and gameplay, it's still a great action RPG that fans like me will love.

Gamers who enjoy complex puzzles that take a while to gradually unravel will absolutely love their time with Transpose. Its breathtaking world and clever situations are awe-inspiring and solving each puzzle room will make you feel like a genius.

Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 is yet another great entry in Inti Creates' library of top-notch retro-inspired 2D action games. So, if you enjoy old-school gaming with a modern sense of style and lightning-fast gameplay then definitely give it a go.

Yakuza Kiwami may not have gameplay as varied as Yakuza 0 but the gripping story, solid combat, and rewarding progression make it a must-play experience for both new and long-time fans looking to either discover or revisit Kiryu's debut adventure.

Overall, Strange Journey Redux certainly doesn't disappoint as completing the sprawling and challenging dungeons while recruiting a variety of demons is a ton of fun. Even if you've played the original, there's plenty here to make you come back for more.

Blood & Truth's story is about as gripping as trying to hold onto a bowling ball with greased up hands and its gameplay doesn't do much to make up for that. Add in a bunch of glitches and goofy moments and you're left with one disappointing VR experience.

I had a great time playing SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS with its modern adaptation of a genuine classic and its super-fun new campaign featuring Shadow the Hedgehog. This is such a bountiful package that any Sonic fan will absolutely love.

I'm having a lot of fun with Demeo and look forward to enjoying more online matches within its tricky monster-filled dungeons. It may ache my neck looking down for so long but in the end, I'd say it's worth it for the amount of fun that it offers.

EVERSPACE 2 looks and plays amazingly with its intuitive and satisfying space combat and exploration. Even though it gets repetitive after a while, what's here still adds up to a special game that you'll gladly take off to the outer reaches of space for.

Vertigo 2 is a weird game that can be off-putting for sure but once you get immersed in its odd world, you'll end up having a blast.

Disgaea 7 Complete takes an already great game and offers oodles of DLC, some nice extras, and an exceptional portable experience. So, if you love SRPGs then this is one expansive package that you'll want to add to your collection.

If you enjoy Mystery Dungeon games as much as I do then you'll absolutely love everything that Crown Trick has to offer.

Tetris Effect: Connected is 2 steps forward and 1 step back from the original 2018 release so if you want to play Tetris online, I can't think of a better option than this. Oh, right; Tetris 99... but that doesn't have a cool single player campaign like this does.

Revolgear Zero is an excellent shoot 'em up that you'll literally have a blast with as you unlock parts and fully customise your ship.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy leaves an outstanding first impression but after playing it for a handful of hours, you'll realise that it doesn't really offer enough exciting gameplay to last its entire campaign. It's still a wonderful game to watch, though.

SkyDrift Infinity is such a fun and challenging racer that it makes me wonder why there aren't more games like it. I'm very happy that they resurrected it from the PlayStation 3 graveyard and hope to see more gems from that era resurface.

Pokemon Shield isn't a bad game but it certainly feels like one of the lazier entries in the long-running series. It still has the core things that make Pokemon great but it comes up short in a few too many areas. I didn't feel like my time was wasted but once I reached the end, I had no desire to turn it back on again which marks the first time a Pokemon game has made me feel this way.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero is a superb entry in the long-running franchise that made me pumped for Trails to Azure as well as Trails into Reverie and the inevitable release of the Kuro no Kiseki series. There sure are a lot of these games but I still can't get enough.

If you're a fan of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 then you must play Torna - The Golden Country. It may not be as grand of an adventure but it provides an incredible back-story that fills out the world of Alrest in a beautiful way.

Level-5 has done it again by delivering a high quality adventure RPG that is chock-full of a ton of silly fun and stays exciting throughout.

Although I'm not usually one for video game stories, Ghost Giant really captivated me with its lovely tale. On top of that, its world looks incredible in VR and the puzzling scenarios are quite enjoyable to master. I just wish that there was more to it.

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a superbly fun action RPG that'll put your parry skills to the test. Throw in rewarding exploration and so many mechanics that it'll make your head spin and you're left with a wonderfully engaging full-fledged adventure.

With its clever scenarios and sense of randomness, Ready or Not offers an exciting team-based tactical shooting formula that's great fun.

Pokemon Shield isn't a bad game but it certainly feels like one of the lazier entries in the long-running series. It still has the core things that make Pokemon great but it comes up short in a few too many areas. I didn't feel like my time was wasted but once I reached the end, I had no desire to turn it back on again which marks the first time a Pokemon game has made me feel this way.

As far as classic shmups go, Thunder Force AC is one of the best and the opportunity to play it on a modern console is a treat.

Hello Kitty Island Adventure is an adorable and super-fun casual game with daily activities that will keep you gleefully coming back.

DIRT 5's off-road racing with over 60 vehicles in 10 real world settings can be a ton of fun as you go for the gold while slipping and sliding in the rain, snow, ice, and mud. Plus, building your own stunt arenas is great for those who prefer careful maneuvers.

If Super Meat Boy is Edmund McMillen's gold medal then The End Is Nigh receives a bronze at best. With repetitive gameplay and unintuitive progression, you won't be missing out on much by not playing this 2D platformer.

As a long-time fan of grid-based dungeon crawlers, I'm delighted to say that Saviors of Sapphire Wings and Stranger of Sword City Revisited are 2 of the best examples of what the genre is capable of. If you love a challenge, I highly recommend picking up this pack.

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.

When it comes to rewarding dungeon exploration, you can't do much better than Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth. Even with its frustrating aspects, what's here is a treat for gamers who love old-school dungeon-crawling adventures.

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a top-notch flight combat game with one of the best VR implementations that you'll ever have the joy to experience. Simply put, the variety of challenging and memorable missions, breathtaking sights and sounds, fun online multiplayer, and super-tight gameplay make it a must-have game for anyone with a fondness for the genre.

RiME is an attractive title that sends you on a fascinating journey. The unvaried replay value shouldn't keep you from giving it a try as it's an adventure game that stays interesting and accomplishes an intriguing dialog without even one spoken word.

Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince is a masterclass in 2D puzzle platforming. From its beautifully fantastical world to its mind-bending scenarios, you're bound to love every minute of this lighthearted adventure.

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is a phenomenal collection of games with incredible updated visuals and a few cool extras. It may have some retro baggage but there's no denying just how classic Crash's first three adventures are.

With almost 50 levels, multiple difficulties, and four medals to unlock in each stage, Octahedron has enough content to keep players busy for hours. Overall, it's a smart, fresh, and creative platformer that stands tall with modern indie classics like Super Meat Boy.

I wasn't expecting Conduct Together! to be as difficult as it is but its level of challenge is what makes it such a rewarding game to master. So, if you enjoy testing both hemispheres of your brain as you optimize puzzle solutions then this is a game for you.

There may be many twin-stick roguelikes but very few are as enjoyable as Blazing Beaks with its charming visuals and tight gameplay.

Mr. Driller Drill Land is the best game in the series and one of my favourite Switch games in recent memory. If you enjoy action-packed arcade fun with plenty of cheerful humour, you'll thoroughly dig this.

Foregone is certainly a solid 2D action game with some nifty RPG elements that'll keep you striving to be the best warrior you can be.

As an old-school gamer, I'm delighted that the PS3 buried treasure Shatter has returned and this Remastered Deluxe edition brings back its brick-breaking fun in an impressive way that'll keep you hooked as you suck and blow your way to the top of the leaderboards.

Jets'n'Guns 2 feels like one of the best DOS games that you'll ever play thanks to its ridiculous shooting action and rewarding upgrades.

If you're in the mood for a hilarious and fast-paced shoot 'em up then you really can't do much better than Osyaberi! Horijyo! Gekihori: Anna Holinski saves the universe, alright?! as it'll make you laugh as you master its challenging albeit simple gameplay.

I loved A Tiny Sticker Tale way more than I thought I would thanks to its distinct gameplay, clever scenarios, and adorable world.

Lil Gator Game is as relaxing as it is adorable and if that's the sort of game that you're looking for then you should definitely play it.

This Bed We Made is an intriguing mystery that warrants multiple playthroughs if you want to experience everything that it has to offer.

Promenade is one of those indie games that you need to have in your collection thanks to its superb gameplay and wide appeal.

Who knew a modern sequel to an obscure NES classic could be this much fun? Well, Gimmick! 2 definitely is and I highly recommend it.

PICROSS S NAMCO LEGENDARY edition is the only Picross game I'll ever need thanks to its awesome theme and boatloads of content.

With its many rewarding elements and intuitive gameplay, Achilles: Survivor makes for a great cathartic game to wind down with for sure.

With its retro aesthetic and tightly intuitive Survivors-like gameplay, Halls of Torment really packs a punch that'll satisfy any genre fan.

There's a lot packed in to Sumerian Six and it's a great game if you're looking for some laughs as you sneak around taking out nogoodniks.

My gaming chum and I had a wonderful time with MARVEL Cosmic Invasion so if you enjoy beat 'em ups then playing this gem of a game is a must. In fact, I think I'll put a little cape on my physical copy when it arrives in March.

Tales of Xillia Remastered is one of my personal favourite Tales games so if you're a fellow fan, this version contains plenty of quality of life upgrades that definitely make it worth getting so you can spend even more time with Milla and Jude.

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.

Pokemon Shield isn't a bad game but it certainly feels like one of the lazier entries in the long-running series. It still has the core things that make Pokemon great but it comes up short in a few too many areas. I didn't feel like my time was wasted but once I reached the end, I had no desire to turn it back on again which marks the first time a Pokemon game has made me feel this way.

You wouldn't think that cats would enjoy taking to the high seas but Cat Quest III proves that feline pirates can be just as capable.

FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves may not be the most expansive fighter ever made but what's here is undeniably great stuff that any fighting game enthusiast can easily enjoy. The question is: will Hotaru's ferret be available as a stuffie? I sure hope so.

Remnant II is the most improved sequel that I've played in a long time and I can't wait for the third installment to release. Until then, I'll enjoy blasting away all sorts of dastardly foes within the absurdly wondrous world that's presented here.

Capcom Arcade Stadium is simply one of the best arcade compilations out there for its vast assortment of excellent games alone. Throw in a gorgeous presentation and comprehensive leaderboards and you're left with one must-have collection.

Although it's relatively short, Amerzone - The Explorer's Legacy is an engaging adventure with an interesting story; making it worth the effort to power the Hydrafloat along the river and save a dying species.

I'm blown away that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess seemingly came out of nowhere and it's as awesome of a game as it is. From its exciting strategic combat to its gorgeous moments of downtime all wrapped in outstanding audio, I absolutely can't wait for a sequel.

If you enjoy experimenting within your games only to watch the results of your experiments expand the game world then Slime Rancher is an ideal game for you. On the other hand, everyone else will find little to like about this cute sim.

Roguelikes rarely feel as rewarding and enjoyable as Fury Unleashed and the fact that you can play it with a friend is a nice bonus.

If you're looking to play a cute indie version of The Legend of Zelda then Blossom Tales: The Sleeping King definitely fits the bill. Just don't expect it to provide anything particularly new and exciting.

The fact that Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection exists is incredible as it's comprised of some of the most enjoyable and underrated 2D action games ever made. If you're a fan of the genre, you need to add this to your gaming library.

Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony is the ultimate murder mystery experience with many new ways to get through the class trials, a large world that expands the more you play, and an interesting story behind it all. If you're intrigued and can put up with the vulgar sophomoric content then this is a must-buy game.

Pumpkin Jack makes for one heck of a Halloween treat with its tight and challenging gameplay that's set in a fun spooktacular world.

REANIMAL's more 3-dimensional approach to its horror puzzle-adventure gameplay really supercharges the scares and sense of exploration.

Pokemon: Let's Go offers a new and exciting adventure while the Poke Ball Plus controller is one of the coolest devices that I've played with in a long time. So, if you're a fan of the franchise or just want some lighthearted fun then this pack is worth a purchase.

When it comes to beat 'em up / action RPG hybrids, Dragon's Crown Pro is certainly a must-have game for any fan of the genre. However, it still has some substantial shortcomings that hold it back from being a universally recommended experience.

In the end, Pixel Ripped 1989 is a superb VR experience that'll make you have flashbacks if you grew up in the '80s or '90s. The imaginative premise and tight 2D platforming creates one of the most memorable games that you can play on PlayStation VR.

Those who enjoy 3D platformers with a twist will love their time with Arise: A Simple Story and its gorgeous world.

Alwa's Legacy is a lighthearted Metroidvania that's hard to put down once you start playing it. With tight gameplay that features an impressive amount of variety, I certainly recommend picking it up if you love exploring 2D worlds.

After over 20 years, Cotton Fantasy was worth the wait as it's bursting with enjoyable shmup gameplay set in a bubbly and very silly world. Plus, the fact that it features such a diverse-playing cast of characters is sweeter than a bowl full of Willow.

Mario Party Superstars contains tons of super-fun mini-games and a handful of beautifully recreated classic boards from the N64 era. You really can't go wrong with that so grab a few friends and party on, chums!

If you're a fan of 2D fighters or merely want to get into the genre, Skullgirls 2nd Encore is a solid game to pick up.

If you're looking for an intuitive arcade shooting adventure with rewarding RPG elements and a satisfying sense of exploration then you'll love what Astro Aqua Kitty has in store. Just make sure you stock plenty of weapons to deal with its impressively tough bosses.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink has a lot of character and is a great contribution to action RPGs. Genre fans looking for something new will enjoy this tale, especially its epic boss fights and interactive landscapes to explore; well, if you can get over the initial hurdles, of course.