Mario & Luigi: Brothership falls into that odd zone of being fine but not exceptional. I think it's comfortably the third best Mario & Luigi game, but it's a distant third and a far cry from the franchise's heights. I had a lot of fun, and I don't regret playing it, but it lacks that certain special something that made the first and third games in the franchise really shine. It's still a fun RPG adventure with some fantastic combat, but it's the weakest of all the Mario RPGs released this year.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is an absolutely worthy sequel to the original game from Relic Entertainment. From the story to the combat system, the developers have done a good job of bringing over the strong elements of the first game and adding large hordes of enemies. The campaign's length feels good, and while the PvP aspect of the multiplayer will tickle the nostalgia bone, it is the PvE section of the multiplayer component and constant support that will keep the game installed on machines. Space Marine 2 is a great addition for anyone who's a fan of action games. Here's hoping that any potential sequel doesn't take another 13 years.

Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival is a very good game with a solid PC port. The base mechanics are classic, and they still work well, just like they did before. The song list is meaty enough, but the presence of both DLC and a Song Pass gives everyone the chance to expand their song library. While the drums give you the more authentic experience, the PC's natural ability to use a wider variety of control methods allows for the game to be more entertaining, if only to see what other odd peripherals people will use to play the game. Provided you're not averse to the lack of Western songs, you'll have a fun time with this game.

Players are going to have mixed feelings about the Until Dawn remake. The story remains as cheesy as ever, while the characters and performances elevate the experience. The changes are mostly good, with the better camera and touched-up graphics winning out over the changing of the soundtrack. However, the game really needed more time to polish out the bugs, especially since there's still plenty of time to get things before the movie hits. It's still a good title, but it could've been so much better if it weren't for the technical issues.

Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake is a charming and well-made update of one of the most classic RPGs of all time. It doesn't reinvent the mold and is too safe for its own measure, but at the same time, it's easily the most accessible and fun version of the game to date. You'll need to have some tolerance for dated design choices, but if you've ever wondered why people love the classic Dragon Quest so much, this is the game to play.

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead is a decent horror experience. The story is fine if you're a fan of the situation instead of the characters that don't give you much material to sympathize with them. The gameplay is authentic to the movies, but it can also feel ridiculous with the amount of debris that you need to be aware of. The game nails the tension necessary for a horror game, but it is also laid on so thick that it can feel tiring if you're playing in long sessions. In the end, while it could've been a tighter experience, it is still a game worth checking out if you're a fan of horror games where you can forgive some questionable game design decisions.

Parcel Corps is loads of fun in short bursts. It's one of those games that you can play in between other big titles as a palette cleanser. You have to be able to overcome a few things like the unorthodox control scheme to get the most out of it, and if you can get the game for cheap, it's worth a look.

Even after 14 years, Red Dead Redemption remains a good example of how to do a proper Western in video game form. The main adventure is more focused than the sequel due to the relatively smaller cast and scope of your travels, but there are also plenty of side-quests that make it worthwhile to divert from the main questline. Undead Nightmare remains one of the better zombie games out there, and it still feels distinct after all these years. You just wish that there was more work done to the graphics outside of adding HDR and upping the brightness, especially since they're charging $50 for a 14-year-old port. The game is still worth adding to your library, but you might want to wait for a very good discount.

The decision to pick up Horizon: Zero Dawn Remastered is completely dependent on your status with the original PS4 title. If you've never played the first game and like open-world adventure games, then this is definitely worth getting. From the story to the action to the decidedly different postapocalyptic setting, the game delivers a good time from beginning to end, even when factoring the expansion pack into the mix. Those people can look at the score and rate it higher. If you've played and beaten the game, then things get more complicated. For $10, the upgrade gets you much richer-looking environments and some better graphics during some of the cut scenes while also introducing some minor issues. Proper DualSense support is also thrown in for good measure, and if you're big on those things, then the price for the upgrade makes it worthwhile. However, for those who aren't so big on aesthetics and were fine with the original controls, you're best waiting a bit for LEGO Horizon Adventures to drop to get a completely different experience in this world.

In the end, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate takes the familiarity of Hades and gives it a more familiar skin. The gameplay differences between the brothers provides an incentive to try all four characters instead of sticking to a favorite. The slightly lower difficulty means that upgrading your crew is faster than expected. Considering the large number of roguelikes on the PC, multiplayer — even though it's imperfect — gives this title a leg up on the competition.

Metal Slug Tactics is an excellent adaptation of the franchise to an entirely new genre. It doesn't play anything like the older Metal Slug games, but in some ways, it still does. It's fast paced, engaging, and frequently funny and clever. The core mechanics are instantly engaging and a genuine delight to experience. Perhaps the only real complaint I can think of is that the roguelike style might not be for everyone, but even that is true to the style of the original arcade games. Both fans of the franchise and those who can't tell a Metal Slug from a Metal Gear will find a lot to like in Tactics.

If you can get past the jankiness, Slitterhead has a certain quality that makes it oddly compelling. Everything from the plot to the gameplay and the graphics is a strange combination of insanely dated and bizarrely structured. It's a bizarre, shambling mess of a game that has a flavor all its own, but it never quite manages to come together into something cohesive.

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered is just as offbeat and captivating as it was when it originally came out 13 years ago. The story works partially because of how it isn't afraid to be funny and gross, and the lack of malice sells the game, even if the humor doesn't strike a chord for some people. The gameplay is fine enough that the rough edges can be ignored at times. It sounds just as good as before and looks much better, but one can't help wishing that more care had been taken to create something more than a barebones port of the original.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure feels like the definition of an unnecessary sequel. It doesn't feel like a natural continuation of Life is Strange, and in many ways, it is kind of a step backward for the characters. At the same time, it doesn't have enough of its own voice and ends up feeling weaker than True Colors or Life is Strange 2. It's nice to see Max again, but fans would've been happier if she hadn't shown up again. Taken entirely on its own merits, Double Exposure is a relatively fun little mystery, but it's too bogged down for its own good.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard is and isn't the game I wanted it to be. It's a rollicking fun story where you fight monsters, save lives, and lead your plucky team of adventurers against impossible odds. At the same time, it feels more like Mass Effect than Dragon Age, and since The Veilguard is the climax of a story, it might be difficult for newcomers to hop into. If I set aside my expectations, it's a pretty darn fun action-RPG that stands well on its own.

Like its predecessors, The Smurfs: Dreams is a pleasant surprise. The gameplay takes the more recent platforming template and ensures it feels solid while also adding in a few twists to spice things up. There's a nice balance between being easy and having some challenge. The presentation complements this by being pleasing all around. Provided that the big traversal bug gets fixed, you're looking at a game that is well worth checking out — even for platforming fans that aren't even fans of The Smurfs.

Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is everything a remake should be. It polishes and shines the strongest elements of the original game while adding just enough modernization and new features to make it feel accessible to a newer audience. Everything from the gameplay to the graphics absolutely sparkles, and it is easy to understand why Romancing SaGa 2 was a cult classic. Only a somewhat thin SNES-style story holds backthe game slightly, and even that is a minor complaint. In a year filled with incredibly strong RPGs, Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven might still be one of the best.

In the end, Kong: Survivor Instinct is a pleasant surprise when compared to the rest of the Kong-related games up to this point. The story isn't that great, but it has enough of a hook to keep players going. The platforming can be quirky, especially during the big chase sequences, but it works fine most of the time to provide some fun sections. The same can be said of the combat, which has flaws but also gives players the chance to take care of enemies in a few fun ways. The adventure isn't too long, but it is satisfying enough once the end credits roll. It isn't a sleeper hit, but it isn't a bad experience to go through for a day or two.

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a delightful experience for any Sonic fan. Not only has the original Generations aged surprisingly well, but the new Shadow segment of the story contains just as much love for the parts of the franchise that came after the original release. The gameplay is quick, fun and accessible, and there's so much love for Sega's mascot and his dark counterpart that it's immensely enjoyable, no matter how many times it reminds me of Sonic 2006. It does the one thing I never imagined could happen: It really makes me want a new Shadow the Hedgehog game.

There's potential in Unknown 9: Awakening. The story and setting are fascinating, since so few games are set at the cusp of World War I. Haroona's powers add an enthralling wrinkle to the stealth and combat systems. The experience falls apart when you scrutinize some of these gameplay mechanics, and the bad bugs and mediocre presentation heavily reduce the game's potential. Give it a few patches, and maybe the title will end up being a guilty pleasure for those looking for a straightforward adventure game, but don't expect to uncover a hidden masterpiece.

Mechwarrior 5: Clans does a lot of relatively new things for the series, and a whole lot more effort has gone into the polish and presentation of the game. The new changes aren't all for the better, and while I can respect that the game is meant to tell its own story, it comes at the expense of effectively removing all of the player's agency in influencing it. My idea of a perfect Mechwarrior game is some sort of middle ground between Mercs and Clans.

It isn't perfect, but God of War: Ragnarok remains a very good adventure game. The main story might meander for a good chunk of time, but the tale in the DLC makes up for that nicely. The action remains solid from beginning to end, and the usual additions made to the PC version and the disabling of hints almost makes up for the questionable decision to make a PSN login mandatory. If that last part isn't a deal-breaker, then you'll have a great time with Ragnarok on the PC.

There's potential in The Axis Unseen. The idea of an adventure game with no HUD and an emphasis on your instincts is an intriguing setup, and the use of a simple set of weapons and powers keeps you from feeling overpowered. However, the combination of laughable physics and a plethora of bugs and design issues make this a game that's difficult to love if you aren't into the heavy metal aesthetic. As it stands now, it is an interesting title, but it needs plenty of patching before it will be worth checking out.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is a wonderful first (no, CD-i doesn't count) outing for the titular princess. It's at once nostalgic and brand new, combining classic Zelda gameplay with the flexibility and freedom of the modern styles. It's a genuine delight from start to finish, with the only real complaints revolving around the fact that the performance hasn't improved from the last game that was developed on the same game engine. If you're a fan of Zelda, Echoes of Wisdom is a must-play.

NBA 2K25 still carries a lot of the standards for how sports games should reflect and celebrate their sport of choice. I just wish it didn't have this odd economic quandary hanging over it. If it were to somehow address that problem and leave it on the cutting room floor, we'd really be onto something.

Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is in an easy running for the best Dragon Ball game ever made. The surprisingly in-depth gameplay is combined with a love for the franchise that seems to radiate from every aspect of the game. The combat might end up being a little frustrating for someone who just wants to bash together their favorite characters, but once you've learned how to play, it feels absolutely fantastic, and it's a genuine labor of love that fans will adore.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is fantasy Persona. Familiar mechanics, familiar concepts and familiar design all come together to make something that doesn't escape from the shadow of its predecessor. Almost all of those things are executed extremely well and add creative twists and new ideas to the formula. Even the simple setting change does a lot to keep it feeling fresher. It's a genuinely fun experience, even if it isn't the most distinct one. It isn't Persona 6, but it's a darn good replacement. Every RPG fan should play Metaphor: ReFantazio.

Overall, I think Silent Hill 2 feels more like a side-upgrade than a full upgrade to the original. It's incredibly faithful and respectful while it modernizes large chunks of the game, but some of those modernizations go a tad too far for my taste. Silent Hill 2 is largely successful at what it is trying to do, which is to present a version of the game that is more polished and modern. It doesn't eclipse the original version, but for anyone who didn't grow up playing PS2 games, this is the easiest version of the game to play.

G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra is a fun game, but it is also flawed in several different ways. The differences in characters provide some incentive to try out everyone, but the combat is plagued with issues in every category. The unlockables are fun, but you have to be able to stomach the grinding needed to unlock everything. The levels are nice but feel like they go on forever; the presentation is good if you can ignore some of the audio issues. Depending on the price, Wrath of Cobra might still be worth checking out for big G.I. Joe fans, but it also could've been so much better.

As mentioned in the beginning of the review, your impressions of Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland are going to depend on how you feel about a game that takes its presentation and design strictly from that 8-bit generation of gaming. The game looks and sounds absolutely gorgeous on the presentation front, and the game does a good job of applying the Super Mario Bros. 2 mechanics to its game world. You'll wish the camera issues from the HD mode were fixed and that the cheap hits from enemies and their placement weren't present in the most annoying of areas. The game is fine, but the frustration from these issues and the relatively high price for such a short experience prevent it from being an all-around great title for fans of nostalgia.

Reynatis breaks the cardinal rule of not reminding players about better games. Everything from the concept to the gameplay feels like a less engaging version of The World Ends with You, and the fact there's an in-game crossover between the two makes it not feel like a coincidence. There's very little that makes Reynatis stand out, and there are quite a few baffling game design choices. I can see players gleaning some fun from it, but only if they've already experienced its better inspirations.

With its aesthetics, tone, and gameplay, The Plucky Squire is a near-perfect game for younger kids, and I'd recommend it without hesitation. Add to that the boatload of charm, and it's very much a title that a parent can enjoy as much as their child does. It lacks the bite of a Zelda game, so if you need your games to be difficult, then this likely isn't for you. However, if you're just looking for the video game version of reading a charming storybook, then The Plucky Squire knocks it out of the park.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster is easily the most accessible and enjoyable version of the game to date. It retains the same basic feel but adds an extra layer of polish to everything. The game's still as wacky and enjoyable as it ever was, but with less frustration and annoyance. There are a couple of areas that perhaps went a bit too far, but by and large, the development team has just created a more fun version of the original. If you're a fan of Dead Rising or want to smash some zombies, Capcom's other zombie franchise has you covered.

There are many words that can be used to describe Squirrel with a Gun: wacky, silly, buggy, unpolished, and fun. The premise is so out there that you can't help but be hooked. The gameplay is solid and enjoyable enough that you'll want to see the journey to the end and beyond, even if you've grown tired of the joke and despite the various issues that still plague the title. The game could do with some bug cleanup, but even in its current state, it's fun enough that players who love off-the-wall concepts would be happy giving this one a shot.

Ultimately, Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions is fine. It doesn't take too long to get used to the controls, and the gameplay loop stays interesting as long as you aren't playing the Chaser role. The matches are fun and perfect for short sessions, and the presence of cross-play means that finding a match isn't going to be too difficult once you exhaust the offline content. There are still some rough patches, but with its low $30 price tag, it's enjoyable for those who want to play some Quidditch without digging up a console from three generations ago.

Overall, Castlevania Dominus Collection is a fantastic collection of Castlevania games. The three DS titles alone are some of the best Metroidvania action to ever exist, and having them all in one convenient package is worth it. Some minor complaints aside, they are perfectly good ports of all three games. The arcade titles are less of a draw but a nice bonus. If you're a fan of Metroidvania titles, Castlevania, or blowing up vampires with cool powers, Castlevania Dominus Collection is one of the best purchases you can make.

When playing through Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics, one is reminded of how good Capcom is at licensed games. Each of the games in this collection is a stone-cold classic, and even though more people will end up gravitating toward Marvel vs. Capcom 2 more than any other game, each title represents the kind of fighting game you wouldn't mind revisiting. There's still some tweaking that needs to be done, from the online performance tanking at times to having some more menu option explanations, but that doesn't take away this collection's overall quality. If you're a fan of 2D fighters, you need to have this game in your library.

The highest praise I can give Astro Bot is that it genuinely feels like PlayStation has its own Mario now. The gameplay, creativity and charm are competing with Nintendo's powerhouse with wonderful level design and engaging gameplay from start to finish. Only the relatively short runtime is a potential negative, and even that feels like a minor complaint. If you're a longtime PlayStation fan looking for a rush of nostalgia, a parent looking for a good game for their kids, or you just want a darn fun platformer, Astro Bot is a must-play.

Just like the previous compilations in the series, Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is an awesome set for visual novel fans and mystery fans alike. The focus on actual investigations more than courtroom drama may throw some people for a loop, but it also shows off how well the series mechanics work. The logic puzzles are good, but the Mind Chess sections of the second game are a tad more exciting. Best of all, the characters and writing remain top-notch, while the various new quality-of-life elements make this one of the more approachable entries yet. While it would be nice to finally see a new entry in the series, it is good to know that at least this release means that anyone can experience all of the games in this series on one platform.

It's difficult to muster up any excitement for Pac-Man Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs. The formula is decent, but the lackadaisical AI doesn't encourage you to play with the parts of the game that make it distinct. The lack of other modes makes this package feel expensive, while the lack of any human players this early on robs the game of any reason to keep playing. It's a dead game that makes you wish that Bandai Namco would resurrect Pac-Man 99 instead.

Monster Jam Showdown is a title for the fans who aren't so critical of their games. Performing stunts is undoubtedly fun, but the stadium events are boring even though they mimic what you'd see in a Monster Jam event. The races are enjoyable until you get stuck behind a truck or crash into a rock wall and spin around unrealistically. The number of available events makes for a lengthy single-player mode, while multiplayer is a good addition. Young players enamored with monster trucks will enjoy this title the most, while all other racing fans should approach it with the above caveats in mind.

Gundam Breaker 4 is a game for fans of the franchise, and it's a darn good one. It even eclipses Gundam Breaker 3 in terms of customization options and the sheer fun that it offers. It's definitely a huge step up from New Gundam Breaker. It's a "create your own digital Gunpla" game first and a beat-'em-up second, but it's difficult to deny the fun of creating the most absurd mech you can and then using it to beat the living crud out of swarms of bad guys. If you like Gundam, Gundam Breaker 4 is probably the best available title for English-speaking audiences.

Visions of Mana is extremely close to greatness. The core combat system is a lot of fun, and I'd adore seeing it come back in a more polished form in a future game. The graphics tend to look amazing, and it captures the tone and feel of a Mana title well. A lackluster main plot and a seriously rushed second half tend to drag down the experience, and some of the technical hitches are disruptive. Despite this, I'd argue that Visions of Mana is probably one of the best titles in the franchise and should be a fun time for Mana fans.

Bakeru is a cute, fun, instantly accessible game for kids of all ages — and maybe even some adults. It doesn't reinvent the genre, but it's a pleasantly comfortable platformer that provides the sort of pleasant experience you'd expect from a developer named Good-Feel. The only things potentially holding back the title are that it's a bit simple and basic for older gamers, and there's some occasionally poor performance. If you're a parent looking for a safe and comfy game for your kids, Bakeru is a great choice.

Overall, Star Wars: Outlaws delivers pretty much exactly what it promised. Players have the chance to take on the role of a smuggler to blast, sneak and fast-talk their way through the Star Wars universe. It does an excellent job of capturing the tone and feel of the franchise, and it feels like a Star Wars game should. It has its flaws and imperfections, but if you're looking for the chance to zoom around blasting TIE Fighters and outwitting the Hutts, it's exactly what you'd want.

If you're looking for a 30- to 40-hour adventure, Castaway is not for you. If you can appreciate a budget-priced, bite-sized love letter to a gaming classic, Castaway is right up your alley. For a busy gamer, the short play sessions are a plus, not a negative, and the speedrun mode adds additional replay value.

After all those years of waiting, Black Myth: Wukong is a very good adventure game. Using a setting that rarely gets seen in the Western world makes the game intriguing, and that's strengthened when you discover all of the character background stories. The combat is just as varied as the environments you traverse, and while the game isn't as masochistic as other modern action games, it is difficult enough that a little patience and planning will still take you a long way in skirmishes. The presentation is amazing, but it stresses out even the best hardware at the moment. To optimize the gorgeous graphics in Black Myth, players need beefy hardware that can take advantage of various upscaling technologies. It is a worthy pick-up for patient adventure fans, and the title will keep players busy for quite some time.

Cygni: All Guns Blazing is a "jack of all trades" type of shooter. It isn't afraid to use as many different gameplay mechanics as possible, and it isn't fearful of creating chaotic situations almost all of the time. You'll wish that more time had been spent refining these elements or adding some quality-of-life elements and tweaks to make the mix stand out more positively. What's available is good enough that hardcore shooting fans will enjoy it, and the hope is that improvements are made to tighten up the experience either through various patches or a potential sequel.

Steamworld Heist 2 is a full-on sequel to the first title. Overall, it's better in every way that matters: more weapons, more skills, more enemy types, more gameplay, and a lot of adjustments that make the game more fun to play. Only the new world map feels more like a lateral move than an actual upgrade, but it doesn't get in the way of the quality of the rest of the game. Steamworld's streak of excellent titles continues, and it makes me excited to see what the development team comes up with next.

Berserk Boy is a fine side-scrolling adventure that's elevated by its high-speed movement and fast action, which takes it above being another Mega Man-style clone. The inclusion of some light exploration elements also gives the game some legs to make it more than a mostly straightforward adventure. However, the overall low difficulty is a little disappointing, while the need to be a near-completionist to get any ending is irksome. It remains a good game, but it could've been better if some of those quirks had been ironed out.

I haven't had this much fun with video game football in years and years, and it's been cool to witness the unifying power of EA Sports College Football 25. It's been the runaway hit of the summer and has secured an immediate seat at the sports pop culture table. I was legitimately sad when this series dropped off years and years ago, and its return — even with its flaws — was cause for celebration. College Football 25 clearly understood the assignment. Now we'll see what happens next.

In the end, Earth Defense Force 6 maintains the status quo set by Earth Defense Force 5. The initial tone might be an immediate cause for concern, but the quick pivot to more familiar elements reinforces the idea that the team still understands what makes the game appealing. The gameplay changes are mostly miniscule to the point where only the keen-eyed will notice too many things different beyond the bestiary. With a presentation that also remains unchanged, the game lives up to the ideal that it really is "more of the same." That's exactly what most fans want, and they'll certainly be most excited to get their hands on this game. For those hoping for some kind of evolution that doesn't rob the game of what made it a cult hit, there is little hope of that happening anytime soon, considering how divisive most of the past entries were.

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- Sweep The Board! appeals to a very specific type of player: someone who's already a big fan of the series and also loves digital board games. The concept is fine, and the day/night cycle and demon fights make this an intriguing party game. That said, between the mediocre collection of minigames, small board selection, unfair CPU characters, and poor online performance, there's not much to keep players interested for very long. It's not a terrible party game, but you'll only be tempted to grab it if you really, really need to play a party game.

Zero Division is a game with a good amount of potential, but it still needs a few passes to get smoothed out. The core gameplay is fun and engaging, but some balance issues and bugs keep it from reaching its full potential. It's difficult to recommend right now, but it's the definition of a game to check out once it's had a little more time to bake. Despite my complaints, I am genuinely looking forward to returning and trying Zero Division again once it's more stable.

Flock is a cozy game that's done well. The simple act of chronicling creatures is both exciting and relaxing, and the same goes for you flying around without worrying about mastering what could've been a complicated control scheme. The objectives are breezy but challenging, and the game looks rather neat all around. It's different enough from other cozy titles that fans of the subgenre would do well to give Flock a shot.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a delightful surprise from Capcom. It's not a big-budget blockbuster or the obvious start to a franchise, but this unusual stand-alone game really feels like something creative and special. The core gameplay loop is plenty of fun, and the graphics are a testament to strong art design. Indeed, the only real complaints I can find are a few lackluster boss fights. It's a game that hearkens back to the days of titles like Okami — and not just in visual appearance. Kunitsu-Gami is absolutely worth a look if you're a fan of Capcom's unconventional titles.

Anger Foot is a very good game if you're fond of its mashup of ideas. The short levels, fast speed, and mostly one-hit kills all work well with the game's offbeat and goofy nature. It's a boomer shooter that demands near-perfection in execution but has enough tools to accommodate those who may not vibe with that ideal. Anger Foot has a good campaign length and a stylized presentation, so it is a strong option for fans of pure action.

In terms of story and characters, The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is probably the strongest entry the franchise has had in a long while. It fixes a lot of long-running issues and manages to be self-contained and capable of standing on its own merits. The new combat system has potential but ends up feeling a tad one-note, and it's the only thing that isn't a full improvement over Reverie. On top of that, it's probably the best starting point for new players that doesn't require going back and starting with Trails in the Sky. If you're interested in the franchise, Trails Through Daybreak is a great place to start.

qomp2 is an interesting title that certainly isn't for everyone. The limited controls make for an equally frustrating yet rewarding experience once you master the mechanics. The difficulty starts off fine, but the quick ramp-up will throw people off guard. The infinite lives, generous checkpoints, and some of the more helpful options help mitigate the ramp-up, but don't be surprised if you get stumped often. If you have a high level of patience and a love for unusual concepts and controls, you're the perfect candidate to enjoy the qomp2 experience.

Balatro is excellent all around. The concept is simple, and while the various card types seem overly complicated, the game remains easy to understand no matter how many rules there are. It's utterly enjoyable to the point where you'll keep coming back no matter how many times you lose to a boss with a ridiculous modifier. For anyone who likes card games, Balatro is a must-have.

Crime Boss: Rockay City has done something that few other games have accomplished since the advent of patching. The team has taken what was a very bad game at launch and made it good enough to be enjoyable. The missions may be short, but the lack of lag and the presence of better-than-expected AI companions makes each encounter fun. The presence of the player XP system makes the tweaked campaign and online modes worth grinding through. Coming in at a cheaper base price than its Epic Games Store launch price, Rockay City is a decent purchase for those who were disappointed with Payday 3 and exhausted with Payday 2.

Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble is a pleasant experience. The story may be disposable, but the levels feature some ingenuity that makes good use of the current physics system without feeling unfair. The number of levels will please fans who love the challenge. While the minigames aren't anything fresh, the presence of multiplayer just about everywhere marks a good step forward for the series. Hardcore fans won't see this as besting the original games from all those years ago, but they will still have a good time with this entry. We're hopeful that Banana Rumble marks the start of new games in the series.

#Blud is a delightful adventure game that oozes charm. The story is good, and it's helped by the absolutely hilarious dialogue. The gameplay is excellent, and the overall gameplay length is just right, even with the various side-quests. Despite the aforementioned issues, the title is highly recommended for anyone who's looking for a solid, under-the-radar title.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is everything one could want from an Elden Ring DLC: a huge new area to explore, new bosses to fight, new weapons to try, and new lore to unravel. It is a genuine joy to play and easily one of my favorite DLCs of all time. Its quality is high enough to even justify the $40 price tag. If you like Elden Ring, then Shadow of the Erdtree will give you everything you could want. If you're a newcomer, it's probably best to play through the game first before taking on the DLC. After all, Mohg, Lord of Blood is only the beginning.

Still Wakes the Deep is a good atmospheric horror game. Having it set on an oil rig is terrifying enough because of their innate labyrinthine structures, and the monster encounters provide the right amount of horror energy. The straightforward nature of the pacing and tale is refreshing, and even the presence of a few flaws doesn't hamper one's desire to play the game to the end. If you're a horror fan who favors exploration more than fighting, Still Wakes the Deep is definitely worth checking out.

Instruments of Destruction is a very simple idea that's been executed well. Breaking stuff is fun, and it's even more fun when every bit of that debris is fully reactive to physics. The different game modes offer completely different ways to play, and then there's a full Sandbox mode where you can use any vehicle on any level you want. While the game can certainly challenge you at times, it's always fun to wield your vehicle and decide that a building shouldn't exist anymore.

For something a little more lighthearted than what you'd get from the mainline series, Monster Hunter Stories is quite good. The change to a more Pokémon-style RPG system works, and the improvements over Nintendo's series makes it stand out in a positive way. The improvements in the presentation are very welcome, and while the story is fine, the pacing of the gameplay makes the game easy to pick up and understand without much fuss. It's a solid game that should be experienced by both light RPG and Monster Hunter fans alike.

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is easily the definitive version of the game. Almost every gameplay change is an improvement that makes the game more fun to play, and the addition of the new storyline means that even returning players have plenty of fresh encounters to experience. At its core, it is still the same game but polished and improved enough that I found the entire experience to be a delight. It's a must-have for fans of the franchise, and even those who prefer the more plot-heavy Persona titles will find a lot to enjoy in Vengeance.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is everything it needs to be. The original game was such a delightful entry that it has overshadowed every Paper Mario game since, and the remake captures all of that charm without losing an iota of what made the original great. It's easily the definitive version of the game, and it's a fantastic experience for newcomers and nostalgic fans alike. It's a strong contender for the best Mario RPG of all time, and if you're looking for a fun adventure, it's one of the best experiences on the Switch.

Overall, Capes is just fun. If you like XCOM but wanted your heroes to have more power from the get-go, Capes scratches that itch incredibly well. The by-the-numbers plot and somewhat-thin characters hold it back slightly, but the title is engaging enough to keep you invested in the next fun stage or exciting boss fight. It's a great example of how the XCOM formula still has plenty of life in it, as long as you're willing to look at things from a different angle.

The PC version of Ghost of Tsushima is simply the definitive version of a game that was already stellar when it landed on the PlayStation 4. It can't help but be gorgeous at just about every turn, and gripes about the sameness aside, the gameplay is extremely well polished. Games like this only exist when absolutely everyone involved pour a lot of passion into it, and it continues to be one of my favorites with this excellent PC port. Whether you prefer a controller or a keyboard and mouse, and whether you like the idea of sneaking around or of shouting your challenge to any Mongol who dares to cross you, Ghost of Tsushima delivers a memorable experience.

Zet Zillions stands out from the roguelike deck builder crowd, and that's almost entirely due to its distinctive style. It also has some genuinely cool and interesting new mechanics that demand approaching the game differently from the standard deck builder. There are some concerns I have about balance, and the characters can sometimes be a lot, but there's a ton to like in this charming and quirky title.

You have to applaud Treasure Coast Games for trying something new with Hamster Scramble. The idea of catching the colors you have available and being able to have more influence on disrupting your opponent has real merit. If you're seasoned in the puzzle genre, the unnecessary platforming — combined with tiny characters, slow speed, and some functionality bugs — makes this game more of a slog than something enjoyable. Unless you're more forgiving of the game's flaws, you can safely pass.

Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a beautiful but ultimately hollow game. The fantastic presentation props up a story that is less personal and engaging than in the first game, and the gameplay feels like an afterthought. It was great to see Senua again and to see her outside of the grief-misery she was enveloped in during the first game, but beyond that, there's not much to Hellblade II. It's a short and less memorable experience that shows off Ninja Theory's visual craft to its fullest — but it achieves little else.

The latest incarnation of Haunted House is fine. The roguelike nature is done well enough, but the relentless enemies and your own fragility mean that some deaths can feel unfair. The same complaint can apply to your inconsistent weapons and tools, but when everything comes together right, the stealth approach can be rather satisfying. While Haunted House isn't exactly a top-tier roguelike, it is good enough that those who are curious about the title should give it a shot.

Braid, Anniversary Edition is a perfect example of how to both craft a worthy remake/remaster while also adding more to entice old players to revisit. The gameplay and puzzles still hold up almost 16 years later, while the graphical overhaul makes the game look more beautiful than ever, especially if you're playing in the highest definition possible. The collection of illustrations and commentary for every aspect of the game makes this the definitive version. If you have never tried Braid before, Anniversary Edition is the version to go with, and that also applies to those who have played the original game but wanted to get a deeper understanding of it.

Megaton Musashi W: Wired is a game that has a lot of flaws, and you need to have a genuine love of giant robots to get past them. The gameplay is fun but simplistic, and the story is disjointed enough to be distracting. Add to that the obvious legacy of F2P gameplay, and it is easy to get turned off by the game. However, Musashi can be a lot of fun if you understand the draw of creating a custom robot, hopping into a battle, and hearing an awesome attack name screamed while you shoot rainbow lasers at bad guys.

New Star GP goes past initial expectations to deliver a very well-crafted racing game. The arcade simulation mix in the racing feels great, and while there are only two modes, they're both so well done that the title doesn't feel like it needs more modes. The lack of online play is a shame, but the omission of manual transmission will turn off those who can only drive that way. For everyone else who isn't craving a pure simulation experience, New Star GP is well worth your time.

Overall, Final Fantasy XVI: The Rising Tide DLC is both a satisfying experience and kind of a disappointment. Had this content been part of the base game, I wouldn't have had any complaints, but since this is set at the tail end of the game, it feels like there should've been more to the plot and presentation. Instead, it feels too divorced from the game world to have an impact. The new abilities and additional boss fights are very cool, but the fact they come only at the end of the game means they are basically for fooling around the Karios Gate or doing a New Game+ run. If you are a big fan of Final Fantasy XVI, you'll absolutely have fun, and it isn't a bad DLC. It just could've been better, and it missed the chance to improve on some of Final Fantasy XVI's weaker points.

Your experience with Dynacat is heavily dependent on whether you liked Sonic 3D Blast and the other titles that inspired it. The unwavering camera viewpoint takes some getting used to, but the addition of a tether makes combat more palatable. The rough gameplay mechanics and slippery controls don't make for an enjoyable experience unless you've mastered the physics or set the game to the Easy difficulty level. Unless you're the patient type, you can skip this title until it is deeply discounted.

TopSpin 2K25 feels like a reboot of the series rather than a proper sequel. The lack of game modes really makes the title feel like it's starting from scratch and trying to nail the fundamentals before approaching more offbeat stuff. Despite the occasional missing inputs and stuttering from time to time, the game remains enjoyable enough that you'll want to master the controls and get in a few matches against others quite often. It needs work for future iterations, but for now, TopSpin 2K25 is solid enough.

Sand Land is a competent and occasionally excellent anime tie-in game. It's a good way to experience the franchise for the first time, and even if you're not a Sand Land fan, I can see it scratching the itch for a simple, open-world experience. It might be a tad too easy for more hardcore gamers, but for younger players, it seems like a great introduction to open-world gameplay.

It's one of the best-looking action games out there, and it's definitely worth your time … and some pain.

SaGa: Emerald Beyond is easily one of the most accessible and easy-to-play SaGa games ever released, making it a solid evolution over SaGa: Scarlet Graces with an improved combat system and more focused area design. At heart, it's still a SaGa game, and that means it is frequently obscure, often confusing, and is unashamed of making you miss content without explaining why. Combine that with the low-budget visuals, and it seems like it's destined to be a love-it-or-hate-it game. Despite that, if you're curious about SaGa, Emerald Beyond is probably the best place to start to see if the eccentric series is right for you.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants isn't bad. The fighting system is quite good, and the additional stages and bosses do a good job of lengthening a very short game. It's fun, and those who were lucky enough to discover the arcade game will be pleased with this port. Those wanting to take the plunge into the title might want to hold off for a bit, unless you can find the title at a discount. The $30 sticker price for such a short experience can be off-putting, especially with only one mode available.

Tales of Kenzera: Zau is an overall solid entry into the Metroidvania genre. The core mechanics are strong, and the story is surprisingly engaging. Only some lackluster level design holds it back from true greatness, and there are enough moments of excellent gameplay that it isn't a huge negative, either. If you're looking for something to scratch that Metroidvania itch, Zau is more than up to the challenge.

Even though it is rather late on arriving to the PS5 compared to other platforms, Slipstream makes for a good arcade racing experience. The drifting mechanics take some time to master, but options to tone down the difficulty and drift precision ensure that everyone can make some progress. The presentation is excellent for the most part, and the number of racing modes means that the game has built-in longevity. As a game to play in short bursts, Slipstream is a fun time.

There's a decent base to Witch's Rhythm Puzzle. The idea of a puzzle game dictated by rhythm has merit, and it would work fine if you can dial in the timing to play the game beyond Easy mode. However, with so little content, it's a short-lived, one-and-done game. It is an inexpensive title, but don't expect a hidden gem.

Ereban: Shadow Legacy is a flawed but enjoyable game. The presentation is fine, and even though the mechanics are simplified compared to other games in the genre, the stealth mechanics create some very cool moments. The overall game length is fine, and while the collision bugs can get fixed, the lackluster story doesn't do its part when it comes to motivating people to play to the end. Ereban isn't necessarily a must-play title, but it is well worth a look if you're in the market for something new.

Children of the Sun has a specific gimmick, and it absolutely nails it. It's a simple but engaging premise that remains fun throughout the entire runtime. It's not overly long, so it's short enough to finish in one sitting, but the potential for high score runs gives it some extra bite. Children of the Sun provides exactly what players want: the chance to play out the raw insanity of Wanted or Guardians of the Galaxy's Yondo, and it nails that concept perfectly.

Horizon: Forbidden West Complete Edition is a very good game, and the PC is the best version of that game thus far. The adventure is engaging overall, even if there are some things that could've been improved. The flexibility of the PC means that there's no longer a compromise between choosing resolution over frame rate. It is an excellent open-world game overall, and we can't wait to see another sequel.

Unicorn Overlord wears its influences on its sleeves, but that is a good thing. It's part Ogre Battle, part Fire Emblem, and part its entirely own thing, and the end result is an absolute blast to play. Add to that the gorgeous visuals, and it's a game that hits all of the marks. The only problems are some minor balance issues, and even those don't detract from the overall fun experience. If you're a fan of strategy RPGs, you owe it to yourself to try out Unicorn Overlord.

Taken on its own, Berzerk: Recharged isn't a bad game. The shooting is still fine, the additions of health and power-ups are neat, as is the presence of co-op. The overall high score chase remains as compelling as ever for those with a classic arcade mindset. Aside from some notable exclusions, the problem is that this title enters a market rife with other twin-stick shooters that do more and offer more to the player, so it's difficult to get excited when picking up the controller. Unless you're filled with nostalgia for the original title and willing to forgive the misses, you can push aside Berzerk in favor of the countless other twin-stick shooters on the platform.

For me, the biggest impact of MLB The Show 24 was the way it honors the game's history while also offering several high-end gateways into the game-playing experience. As a sports title, it's whatever you want it to be. If you want the hardcore stuff with every pitch and swing, you got it. If you want to just destroy the CPU for a quick 10 minutes, you can do that, too. If you want to just know more about baseball's legendary figures, this is also a pretty good place to start.

Open Roads is a nice little narrative adventure that scores through its visuals, good writing, and excellent voice cast. It's pretty short and linear, and not all aspects of the story were quite as well executed as others. Overall, it's a great narrative indie game that feels like a natural extension of Gone Home.

Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles is an interesting piece of work. As a city builder, its simplicity in the actual building process is complemented by the unusual environment for the genre. That alone is enough to make simple settlements look cool. As a strategy game, the attempts to simplify some of the traditional mechanics of the 4X genre work surprisingly well, but some elements, like combat, could've used more attention so it doesn't feel like an afterthought. The end result isn't going to be for everyone, but it is worth a look for those who want to jump into the genre and appreciate something out of the ordinary.

South Park: Snow Day! is a good South Park game, but it's just a fine one when viewed without the license. The action is good, as is the inclusion of roguelike elements, but the camera distance can make the gameplay feel cumbersome. The inclusion of multiplayer is great, but the lack of local play is disappointing. While the different card combinations and level elements add some replayability, the presence of only five stages make the game feel short; the disappointment is lessened by the lower-than-expected price tag. It's a fun game, but you'll want to temper your expectations.

Rise of the Ronin really demands that you give it a fair go. It starts off slow and takes a while to get running. Once it does, it's quite fun, with engaging and exciting combat that feels more demanding and intense than I'm used to from an open-world game. It's a big investment up front to find out if the game works for you, and enjoying previous Team Ninja games doesn't necessarily guarantee that you will.