One of the most debated topics in the gaming industry in the past few years is whether video games can be considered art. While I don’t have the academic background necessary to provide a definitive answer to such a question, Clair Obscur Expedition 33, with its story, art, and music, evoked feelings in me that only the most memorable works of art can: pain, joy, sadness, and grief. All of this, combined with one of the finest turn-based RPG experiences of the last decade, makes this game not only one of the best of 2025, but one of the greatest offerings of this generation.

Astro Bot is a game full of passion, quality and competence, consolidating Team Asobi as the best and most creative studio under the PlayStation Studios umbrella. It delivers an enchanting experience from start to finish, with fun and varied mechanics enough that the player doesn't notice the time passing. It is also worth praising the excellent localization into Brazilian Portuguese.

Dragon's Dogma 2 is worth your attention, whether you're an old fan or someone who's never touched Dark Arisen. You just need to be aware that this is a more difficult game, in which it is not possible to reverse your actions and that focuses heavily on exploration and intense battles.

Magnum Opus. The Latin expression is used to express a work of excellence in all aspects, usually being the pinnacle of an author or artist. If the composition of a team of renowned names from Studio P was already a clue that Metaphor was destined for great things, now with its release it is impossible not to have the feeling that this is the greatest work produced by Atlus yet. Absorbing everything that is best in the already historic Persona and Shin Megami Tensei franchises, Metaphor: ReFantazio is not only the best RPG of the year, but is also one of the big favorites for game of the year 2024.

The Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 collection carries on its shoulders the two best 3D platformers ever starring Mario. Both games feel frozen in time, showing absolutely no signs of aging — quite the opposite, in fact: they highlight Nintendo’s sorcery in crafting magical, timeless experiences. Some minor tweaks were added to make them more accessible for new players, but honestly, they didn’t even need it. Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 deserve to be listed in the dictionary as synonyms for perfection in gaming. Only those who embark on this journey truly understand how far the mustachioed hero went (to space, literally) to outdo himself in creativity.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a true love letter not only to fans of the series, but also to Kiryu Kazuma. It is also a reminder that the two protagonists were not created to replace each other: they both have their value and learn from their qualities and defects when they are together.

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach delivers on its promises, featuring a star-studded cast worthy of Hollywood. Its story surprises with the boldness of its themes, accompanied by fun and refined gameplay. It’s an essential recommendation not just for Kojima fans, but for anyone who loves video games.

If you grew up in the 90s or 2000s, Mixtape will likely bring laughter, nostalgia, and maybe even a few genuine tears. For those born in the TikTok era, it's almost like a time capsule of a less connected, but perhaps more present, youth.

I’m a huge fan—not just of Hades, but of the entire catalog of titles released by Supergiant Games to date. So it came as no surprise that Hades II turned out to be one of the best games I played in 2025. While writing this review, I found myself restless—not because I struggled to talk about the game, but because every minute at the keyboard was a minute spent away from Tartarus or Olympus. Its only shortcoming lies in the somewhat limited strategic variety offered by Melinoë’s weapon aspects. Beyond that, Hades II elevates every element that made Hades the breakout hit of 2020, delivering once again one of the finest roguelikes ever made—packed with content and crafted with a quality worthy of a true Greek epic.

If you've played and enjoyed A Way Out or It Takes Two, there's no doubt that Hazelight's new game will become one of your favorites from the studio. The other thing I'm certain of is that Split Fiction isn't just an excellent game, it's a true celebration of what games should be and represent: creativity, fun, and the rare element of continuing to surprise you and put a smile on your face after hours of gameplay, when you thought you'd seen it all.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater may not be the remake new players expected, but it is a love letter to longtime fans. It is a respectful modernization of Kojima's legacy and his history with Konami.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment not only stands as the pinnacle of the musou genre—bringing variety to a style often marked by repetition, from its combat to its structure—but also firmly earns its place among the best canonical Zelda titles. Koei Tecmo absorbs everything that makes the Zelda franchise so special and delivers a work worthy of making Eiji Aonuma and Shigeru Miyamoto proud.

Reigning supreme on the Xbox Series X, Forza Horizon 5 maintains its crown on the PlayStation 5 with hundreds of hours of content and impressive technical features, especially on the PS5 Pro. Surprisingly, PlayStation now houses the best console version of a major Xbox game. In a win-win deal for both companies, Sony is grateful – and Microsoft, with its deep pockets, is smiling from ear to ear.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is like a dream come true. The immensity of the universe of this work deserved a game that was technically up to the task of portraying its settings, characters and stories with the technology of current consoles. Fortunately, the result delivered by Square Enix exceeds expectations.

With a stronger plot, better character development and a captivating dynamic between Henry and Hans, the game becomes essential for veteran fans and newcomers alike. Improved in every way possible, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 definitely delivers the experience that Warhorse Studios always had in mind for the franchise.

Overflowing with charisma, Sonic Racing: Crossworlds is the racing game the blue blur always deserved—a true tribute with that unmistakable arcade vibe that honors his legacy in gaming. With gameplay as smooth and satisfying as driving in real life, and a wealth of content built to entertain for generations, the game reignites the friendly rivalry between SEGA and Nintendo. This time, though, the race is neck and neck.

Even with some small problems, it is easy to say that Indiana Jones and the Big Circle is one of the best games of 2024, even though it has been released too late to participate in big awards.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink makes small mistakes, but it is practically a perfect game within its proposal. It's a clear example of how mobile franchises, with sufficiently engaging worlds, can be successful in genres that are more appealing to a wide audience.

Black Myth: Wukong is not only a beautiful demonstration of the graphical power that we can expect from Unreal Engine 5, but it is also an excellent action game and a possible candidate for the Game of the Year race in 2024.

If the excellent core of Xenoblade Chronicles X that didn't need to be renewed wasn't enough, such as its vast and excellent combat and RPG mechanics, a living and highly explorable world, and an excellent and addictive soundtrack, Monolith Software's remaster also manages to get the right improvements to revitalize the game for the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're a veteran of the game or, like me, a newcomer wanting to explore the world of Mira for the first time, Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition truly lives up to its name as the ultimate version to experience what can easily be considered one of the best JRPGs available for the Nintendo Switch.

Persona 3 Reload is a very faithful remake of the original, and also brings completely new elements that came to modernize the experience and make the gameplay and plot even more engaging. With a few stumbles, Persona 3 Reload might not be the most complete, but it is the definitive version of the game that marked the franchise's path to success.

Silent Hill F is not just a return — it’s a reinvention. Neobards and Konami have managed to bring the series back into relevance without relying on recycled formulas, opting instead for a fresh Japanese setting, a complex protagonist, and a combat system that defies expectations. It’s an approach that surprises while still respecting the franchise’s DNA.

Raw as it should be and honest in its set of modes, Space Marine 2 inherits the simplistic spirit of the productions of the late 2010s, when we were happier and less discerning, but presents itself as a reference for the current generation. What we have here is video games in their purest essence.

Keeper is by far one of the most original games of 2025. Without using words and with simple gameplay, the game takes you on a beautiful journey full of surprises, which will certainly please those who enjoy games with an artistic flair.

Even with its flaws, Dragon Age The Veilguard is definitely worth giving a chance. And if you let go of the weight of expectations created over the last 10 years, you might actually be surprised by what the game and its characters have to offer. Of course, as with Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the decision is entirely in your hands.

Pragmata is the kind of game that can appeal to most people, even if it has a few stumbles along the way. If you're unsure, I can say that there are many elements that reminded me of games like Resident Evil and Dead Space, with very small hints of Monster Hunter and even Death Stranding.

Unicorn Overlord presents a healthy and balanced mix between combat and exploration, naturally integrating these two crucial aspects of gameplay. Generous in content, the game can easily take a hundred hours, depending on how engaged you are with the optional challenges.

Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden definitely doesn't want to be a revolutionary game. Instead, it plays it safe to deliver a solid and fun experience, with an original story and gameplay that should please fans of The Witcher 3 and God of War (2018).

Gaúcho and The Grassland offers a rich cultural experience paired with fun and engaging gameplay. For those who are Gaúchos like myself, it's an unmissable journey that can be deeply emotional. Even for players who simply enjoy farm-themed games, Epopeia Games’ title brings an interesting gameplay experience that can be quite enjoyable, despite a few limitations. If you're curious about the culture of Rio Grande do Sul and want to explore it in a cute and interactive way, this adventure is highly recommended.

Embark took their time developing ARC Raiders, and the end result is spectacular. There are, indeed, some problems, but everything indicates that they will be resolved over time.

If you like Japanese RPGs and have never played them, I would say that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a must-buy.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door brings visual and quality of life improvements, but its true purpose is simply to rescue a game that was trapped in the GameCube library.

Ninja Gaiden 4 truly packs a ton of content and focuses on delivering a fast-paced experience, with a great variety of abilities and weapons, a solid storyline, gorgeous environments, and battles worthy of a true ninja. I have to admit, though, this franchise isn’t for everyone — the repetitive loop of cutting down waves of enemies until you reach your objective can feel exhausting to some players. Still, it’s an integral part of the series’ gameplay identity.

Even though some adjustments may be necessary, this expansion will be essential for those who want to get the most out of future seasons. There are simply too many exclusive elements that will make a difference and, combined with update 2.0, Vessel of Hatred has the chance to transform the Diablo 4 we know into the game that many have wanted since its launch.

The great challenge for Team Ninja with Nioh 3 was to take a solid foundation already beloved by fans of the franchise and elevate it to a new level alongside the industry’s major titles. Although I believe this goal has not yet been fully achieved, Nioh 3 represents the consolidation not only of the franchise but of all the work Team Ninja has developed over the years. The result is a game that, while not perfect, easily stands among the best soulslike titles in the industry, making it a recommendation not only for longtime veterans but also for anyone who has yet to experience what Nioh has to offer.

Better than 99% of current RPGs, the remake of Romancing SaGa 2 does well in every area it dares to invest in. Thanks to the dedication of the Xeen studio, the visual and quality of life improvements make the game more enjoyable and rejuvenate its age. I say with a smile on my face that Revenge of the Seven is, without a doubt, the best entry point the franchise has had in over three decades.

With only a few technical flaws, Donkey Kong Bananza is a game that gets almost everything right in what it set out to do and deliver to fans of the gorilla. It's refreshing to see the character getting a brand-new game—especially in a different formula from what we’ve been used to seeing since the 1990s.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance joins this year’s pantheon of ninja games, proving itself as a true metroidvania with deep exploration, stunning hand-drawn art, and fast-paced combat. Musashi shows he hasn’t aged a bit in nearly 40 years, seamlessly reinventing himself as a modern-day shinobi while never losing the essence that once made him a SEGA icon.

Ninja Gaiden Ragebound hits like a shot of espresso to the brain — sharpens your senses with its pixel-perfect jumps and gets your heart pounding through the acrobatic carnage delivered by the two excellent protagonists, Kenji and Kumori. Still, the absence of Ryu Hayabusa is definitely felt.

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead is one of the most fun and immersive horror games I've played in recent times, and is a must-have for fans of the genre. The game uses audio so well that it's worth playing with a headset or a microphone activated.

Black Ops 6 revitalizes the Call of Duty franchise with a remarkable campaign, sharp gameplay, and extra modes packed with content.

If you're wondering whether Pokémon Pokopia is worth it, I'll give you the answer right away: yes, it's one of the games that has surprised me the most in recent months. But this is exactly the type of game I love; after all, I've already spent hundreds of hours on Minecraft, Animal Crossing, Dragon Quest Builders, and various other farming, building, management, and simulation games.

Although its offline content is less than expected, Tekken 8 delivers an engaging combat system and its characters have never been as fun as they are now.

Silksong is a game made with great care and quality, and it can appeal to almost any fan of genres like Metroidvania and Soulslike. Outside of that bubble, however, it might be a harder title to recommend than its predecessor, even though it improves on practically every element. I believe it’s less accessible, as it demands better reflexes, more skill in platforming sections, and a stronger sense of how to deal with regular enemies and bosses.

Hell is Us bet on being an “out of the box” game—and it nailed it. Its bold choice to present wide, open environments without a map or any straightforward navigation system adds a nostalgic feel, even flirting with the essence of classic soulslike experiences from the Souls series. However, the combat makes a point of showing it’s something entirely different, introducing a system that may seem complex at first but gradually turns into a secondary element as the game progresses.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 isn't a perfect remake, nor a revolutionary reimagining. But it's, above all, a fun game, respectful of its heritage, and incredibly addictive. Arcade skateboarding is doing just fine, thank you.

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster is a gift for fans of the franchise or the RPG games that dominated the consoles of the 32-bit era. The package maintains the traditional elements of the games, such as free exploration, turn-based combat and, most importantly, hundreds of characters to add to your group, but now with a modern look that mixes nostalgia with modernity.

Gears of War Reloaded is a masterclass in how to bring a classic game into the modern era. The title comes packed with an impressive suite of new technologies and removes all the barriers in its PC version. On top of that, the game runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, showcasing its impressive scalability. It’s practically a development handbook that more studios should follow when it comes to preserving legendary franchises.

Zenless Zone Zero is a reflection of HoYoverse's excellent momentum, which once again demonstrates its potential in creating immersive worlds. The title pleases not only aesthetically, but also in its gameplay, the most satisfying ever designed by the developer.

Super Bomberman Collection brings all the conveniences that a classic game collection needs, without adding or taking away anything. After recovering from a pachinko overdose, Konami finally seems to have mastered the art of preserving its intellectual properties. I hope the company persists with this initiative, as its treasure trove is still full of relics that deserve to be rescued.

Honestly? If you’ve got any kind of emotional attachment to the series, Salamander 3 alone makes the collection worth it. Gradius Origins doesn’t just bring back the golden age of shmups—it celebrates 40 years of the most influential and prolific franchise in the genre. Even if this style of game doesn’t carry the same appeal it once did, at least Konami made the effort to keep it alive in our memories.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition is more than just a competent adaptation—it's a true stress test for the Switch 2’s hardware. Thanks to CD Projekt Red’s technical “sorcery” in making the port happen, the game showcases what Nintendo’s hybrid console is capable of in this generation. More importantly, it offers a glimpse into the kind of relationship the Japanese company hopes to build with third-party developers. If firepower was what the Switch 2 needed, there's nothing quite like Cyberpunk to prove its combat potential.

Castlevania Dominus Collection is a great release from Konami, even with the lack of subtitles in Brazilian Portuguese. There is a clear care with the preservation of the legacy, combined with a good set of extra content without the need for DLCs.

Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition could easily become the definitive version for a lot of people – myself included – as it lets us play with current-gen quality while enjoying all the conveniences of the Switch 2. It may not be the most visually impressive version of Street Fighter 6, which doesn’t take away from its merit as a brilliant port, but it’s the only one that lets you practically jump into a quick ranked match during a family lunch.

Frostpunk 2 brings excellent gameplay additions and also elevates its predecessor visually and in terms of immersion, although this is expected due to the migration to Unreal Engine 5. Overall, 11 Bit Studios does an excellent job with the new entry in the franchise, taking everything that brought it success six years ago and expanding it to new heights.

Marvel Vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics promises a satisfying experience for beginners and veterans alike. Fighting games from this era are known for being challenging, but there are several conveniences here that allow all types of players to have fun without headaches.

The new Battlefield 6 is a true successor to the classics Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4 — fan favorites and milestones in the industry. It stays true to the core mechanics and systems that matter most to the franchise, showing a clear attention to what players actually love. It’s a solid, back-to-basics Battlefield done right.

With Rematch, it’s a clean hit: refined visuals, addictive gameplay, and an original concept make it a standout. It’s proof that there’s still room for innovation in the gaming industry—even when it feels like everything revolves around the same tired themes and formulas.

I can't even begin to imagine if this is truly the game that the most loyal fans were expecting after so many years, since that ends up being something much more personal than objective. From my perspective, I can say that I had a lot of fun and I'm eager to go back and finish exploring everything that was left behind in Viewros.

For fans of the first game or simply missing gameplay similar to Fallout, it's almost impossible not to recommend The Outer Worlds 2. The game still has some areas where it could improve, but it's easily a significant improvement over its predecessor.

Tomodachi Life is easily a game I never imagined would get a sequel, especially 12 years after its release. During my days on the island with my new Miis, I can say that the formula is still extremely fun and I'm very happy that Nintendo has invested in the franchise again. Still, I think one of the strongest points of the original was its surprise factor, since we had never seen anything like it before.

Some experiences must be lived through for the fullness of their message to reach—or at least attempt to reach—your imagination and touch you in some way. Skate Story is like that. But since the goal here was to give you an idea of ​​what to expect, I can say lightly that this is a game worth playing.

If you prefer something more complex, there may be some elements here that can bother you, but nothing so serious that it takes away the fun. At the end of the day, DOOM: The Dark Ages is still Doom and it's simply very hard not to have a blast ripping apart dozens of demons with the music at full volume.

Assassin's Creed Shadows brings back the franchise's fun with an engaging adventure in Feudal Japan, standing out for its rich narrative, well-integrated characters, and stunning visuals enhanced by the seasonal system. However, the game falters by overreaching in scale, featuring a lengthy storyline and a vast map with empty areas that contribute to visual and gameplay bugs. Even so, it’s a breath of fresh air for Ubisoft, signaling a return to its former glory.

Enotria: The Last Song is a charming soulslike with such an attractive setting that it will win over even those who are not fans of the genre. It is impossible not to be impressed by the very well-constructed scenarios, on top of a bold theme, which culminated in a perfect match.

F1 25 remains a game designed to please a specific niche: motorsport enthusiasts and, above all, Formula 1 fans. The return of the Braking Point mode adds some appeal for those looking for something a bit more “outside the box,” and ultimately, it also serves as a solid entry point for newcomers. However, the other modes are virtually unchanged, with only minor updates—something long-time annual players are already very familiar with.

Resident Evil Requiem stands on its historical weight and on gameplay that embraces well-defined dualities for the overall experience. However, beyond a narrative that raises more questions than answers, there is a lack of clarity regarding the future direction of the franchise.

If you like the exploration of Uncharted, the mechanics of Splinter Cell and the entire Star Wars universe, there is no doubt that this game was made just for you and puts a galaxy of possibilities in the palm of your hand.

Even though the games in the Mario Party franchise don't change that much overall, there are always factors that can make them boring or memorable. In the case of Jamboree, I think the variety of boards, modes, and ways to play could be the big difference in attracting those who haven't yet purchased a game in the franchise on the Nintendo Switch, or even convincing those who have already purchased the two predecessors in recent years.

Overall, I think the changes and new features were enough to make the game much more enjoyable today, not to mention the incredible visuals provided by HD-2D and the unforgettable art by Akira Toriyama. Other than that, I think if you give Dragon Quest III HD-2D a chance, you'll be really surprised by how innovative it was and everything it was able to deliver as a small NES game in 1988 and, now, again in 2024.

After almost 15 years, I really think that Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is worth it. Its design has proven to be very strong over the years and I think the game has aged very well, as it remains as challenging, charismatic and fun as it was in 2010.

Call of the Elder Gods is a game that should please a wide range of fans: fans of Lovecraft, of challenging puzzles, and of the first game. Out of the Blue isn’t trying to make a conventional horror game, but rather capture the essence of what made H. P. Lovecraft so unsettling on paper: the idea that the universe is ancient, vast, and may hide secrets humanity cannot even begin to understand.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A gives more meaning to Mega Evolutions and is, above all, a game about combat — this time unrestrained and unafraid to break away from sameness. Lumiose City is the perfect stage for this Pokémon battle playground: its charm and historical depth highlight just how underrated the X and Y generation truly was.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is the third installment in the spin-off series, but the first to truly stand on equal footing with the main series. In scope and ambition, Twisted Reflection is as big as Monster Hunter Wilds, even with some inconsistent moments in combat and side activities. With Stories 3, Monster Hunter remains sovereign as Capcom's most consistent product.

REDACTED arrives with one of the best roguelikes of the year. The idea of ​​exploring the rich universe of The Callisto Protocol fits perfectly to place players in varied scenarios full of creatures. Its frenetic gameplay is a good choice for those looking for a challenge, and the reward system makes dying not so bad.

The Alters is a unique experience in the world of video games, blending a variety of different elements to deliver a cohesive, polished, and thought-provoking product. It’s the kind of story that could have come from the mind of a great science fiction writer—but its impact is only truly felt when you step into the shoes of Jan Dolski.

A.I.L.A knows how to create a tense atmosphere, catch you off guard, and truly leave you wondering what awaits you next—essential elements for a genuine horror experience.

MARVEL Cosmic Invasion is a pleasant surprise for fans of beat 'em up games. Although simpler than other Dotemu hits, the title delivers refined and highly addictive tag-team gameplay. Furthermore, it hits the mark with its multiplayer experience (online and offline), the variety of its character roster, and unlockable content, encouraging replayability.

South of Midnight is one of those games that are very easy to recommend because it will be available day one on Game Pass. For those considering purchasing it, I’d say it’s worth evaluating whether this action-adventure style—so reminiscent of what we saw about 15 years ago and highly linear—aligns with your preferences. I believe the story, characters, soundtrack, and simpler gameplay can greatly appeal to players looking for something lighter that doesn’t demand dozens of hours of their attention, yet still delivers a fun and deeply moving experience.

At the end of the journey, it's hard not to be moved by the tribute behind Master Lemon and its beautiful story about friendship, memory, and the value of words. More than just a unique Brazilian game, the title reminds us of the transformative power of art—capable of synthesizing pain into something beautiful, and grief into an eternal legacy.

A mix of racing and brawling, with a touch of party game, Kirby Air Riders preserves the soul of the original GameCube game and highlights the identity of Masahiro Sakurai, whose essence is everywhere, from the inventive menus and challenges to the minutiae of gameplay. Despite being a fast-paced title, there's something comforting in the positive and unpretentious atmosphere it conveys.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins is still a game about beating up an obscene amount of opponents, now with a personal motivation behind it all. With new tools that diversify combat, the Dynasty Warriors franchise seems to have finally found the ideal path to continue cultivating the genre it created.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii follows the series' motto of not being afraid to be a video game, something that should be a priority in the industry again. The title takes the best of the franchise's formula, building a solid and familiar base, and then spends its efforts on delivering very well-structured and engaging combat and maritime exploration systems.

Once again, EA FC 26 arrives with specific updates that don't justify the high price of its annual edition. As promised, the game listened to its players' complaints and tried to address many of them, but in some cases, the sheets were pulled to one side of the bed, leaving the other side exposed. The two distinct gameplay styles aim to appeal to a wider audience, but there are still positioning bugs that the game's AI can't handle, which are likely to generate new complaints.

After taking 11 hours to solve the mystery of Emio - The Smiling Man, my biggest problem is that it left me wanting more, leading me to believe that the franchise would benefit greatly from games with more cases in a single package, similar to Ace Attorney. This would also help justify its hefty price tag and tell a more complex story across multiple acts.

This is the best way for newcomers to experience the game for the first time, or for longtime fans to enjoy it all over again. It’s worth noting that the War of the Lions version is still available on PS Vita as well as on Android and iOS devices. Unfortunately, the price is still quite steep on those platforms, so waiting for a discount on The Ivalice Chronicles might be the best way to play Tactics nowadays.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a reminder that video games go far beyond old recycled formulas that, in the end, only serve to please shareholders. It is a strategy and action game full of charm and competence in a gameplay that seems simple, but delivers enough depth to enhance the replayability factor.

Luigi's Mansion 2 HD is in the middle ground between port and remake. It's the bread and butter of Nintendo's re-releases, which perhaps doesn't justify its full price, even considering that the answer to the question “is it worth it” is subjective and very particular to each person.

Whether intentionally or not, Tarsier Studios delivered everything I expected from Little Nightmares 3 in Reanimal. The game offers greater gameplay depth, beautiful visuals, and an intense atmosphere, all with solo or local/online co-op gameplay.

Spirit of the North 2 builds on what already worked in its predecessor while adding new ideas—not necessarily original, but ones that shone in other introspective works, such as its grand open world. It’s the perfect sequel, bigger and better in every aspect, with several emotionally resonant moments with the world and its characters. Infuse Studio has finally achieved what seemed to be its goal from the very first game: to create poetry in the form of a video game.

Monster Hunter Wilds offers an enjoyable experience, even if it has its fair share of rough patches. While it may not excel in every aspect its predecessors did, it's an adventure that deserves your attention. The only question is whether its current offerings would be enough for your preferences and play style, or if it's worth waiting for new monsters and more challenging content in the future.

Neva represents a slight change of direction for Nomada Studio, moving away from subjective art and embracing a clearer style without leaving emotion aside. The addition of more complex parkour and combat shows the developer's commitment to improving and evolving its content, seeking to present its works to a larger player base.

The Plucky Squire is a light-hearted experience that always manages to put a smile on the player's face with its surprises. Although it is more linear than desired, the game constantly plays with our expectations and reinvents its mechanics in an ingenious and fun way.

The First Berserker: Khazan is a game built on an exceptionally solid foundation, featuring excellent gameplay, impressive visuals, and challenging, meticulously designed bosses. This strong base demonstrates immense potential, but unfortunately, it falls short due to its repetitive and lackluster sidequests. As a result, what could have been one of the standout games of the year becomes instead a solid recommendation primarily for fans of challenging action games.

Dying Light: The Beast is a game that will resonate most with longtime fans of the franchise. Choosing to focus on targeted improvements while preserving much of what worked in previous entries is a bold move. And while this approach has backfired in many other games, here it pays off—making this the most enjoyable title in the series yet.

Mario Tennis Fever wins without a tie-break and becomes the definitive sports experience for Nintendo's plumber. Going beyond simply keeping what worked in Mario Tennis Aces, the title refines its gameplay with new tricks and introduces a variety of fun ways to compete in tennis, making it a great crossover of sports, beat 'em ups, and minigames. It's the kind of game we'll all keep playing until the end of the Switch 2 generation, at least.

Despite moving away from the formula of The Sands of Time saga, the new Prince of Persia does not make an effort to introduce new ideas to the genre. Instead, the game is satisfied with providing a great experience, packed with the spirit that made the series famous in the past.

Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac takes a retrospective look at the qualities of the famous yellow hero in a 3D platformer that proves to be ahead of its time. As a remake, it meets all the expectations of a modern update and goes even further: it adds more content and gives a beautiful polish to everything that worked in the already charming original title, without losing its essence.