Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition may not be a definitive port of the game, but few players would bother complaining about what's missing. This is still a fast and fluid action title with plenty of content and a campaign that never feels like it's dragging along. Most importantly, this is a port that looks just as good as its more powerful console brethren without any performance drops. Capcom has already proven in the Switch 2's first year that it can be trusted to bring out solid ports of its games with minimal compromise, and DMC5 keeps that streak going.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales feels like it gets about three-quarters of the way toward being a fantastic game, but its final stretch drags it down. When it's firing on all cylinders, it's a great deal of fun and comes very close to capturing the energy and spirit of a classic Zelda title. When it isn't, it feels slow, meandering, and unfocused. A strong soundtrack and beautiful visuals help elevate the experience, but ultimately, Adventures of Elliot lands as a good game that could have been great with a bit more polish and focus.

In the end, this port of Rise of the Tomb Raider is as good as the game itself. The scope of the environments and presence of side tombs make the world feel ripe for exploration. The combination of stealth and combat works well, but shooting still feels a tad off. The inclusion of different extra modes and content gives you enough of a reason to return to the game after finishing the main campaign. The presentation is very solid, even if it falls a step below the original Xbox One iteration. If you've somehow never experienced this title before, the Switch 2 version is a good way to do so. Here's hoping that it doesn't take a new console release before Shadow of the Tomb Raider makes its way to a Nintendo platform.

LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is both a very good LEGO Batman game and a very good overall Batman game. The focus on a small set of characters makes everyone feel like they're more than just a skin swap. The use of an open world is well done, since it actually feels like a living place. The combat is more fluid but feels natural, while the kid-friendly humor is retained to keep the game feeling light-hearted, even during the more serious scenes. This is a game meant for every kind of Batman fan, and it is a title well worth playing.

Psyvariar 3 proves that the series' core formula can evolve without sacrificing what made it memorable in the first place. The signature buzz system remains intact; it works exceptionally well once you understand its mechanics. The addition of multiple ships with meaningful differences adds considerable depth, while the varied difficulty settings and game modes give the experience lasting appeal. For shoot-'em-up fans, Psyvariar 3 is well worth a look, especially if you're seeking something that stands apart from the genre's usual conventions.

Terrinoth: Heroes of Descent succeeds by embracing simplicity. Its accessible combat system and short, self-contained missions make it an appealing choice for newcomers to the Descent universe and for players who don't have hours to dedicate to a single gaming session. While the experience can feel uneven at times, its strengths ultimately outweigh its flaws. Once players become familiar with its systems, they'll find a casual RPG that delivers enjoyable adventures without demanding a major time commitment. Even veterans of larger, more complex RPGs may appreciate Terrinoth's lighter, more relaxed approach.

Bubsy 4D comes remarkably close to being a fantastic platformer. The foundation is excellent, and the game remains enjoyable from start to finish thanks to its outstanding movement and solid level design. Unfortunately, nearly everything beyond those fundamentals feels underdeveloped, while the constant self-deprecating humor often makes the game seem embarrassed by its own existence. If you're looking for great movement and satisfying platforming, Bubsy 4D delivers. I just wish it had a little more confidence and substance beyond that.

Still, MLB The Show 26 comes down to playing ball, and in that sense, it still remains capable of draining away chunks of your day (or week). Few sports games have done as well in mastering the soul of its sport. The pacing, tension, and strategy of the game translate wonderfully, and it's still the best day at the gaming ballpark you can find.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth remains as strong now as it was at launch. Its compelling, carefully crafted story and best-in-class combat system make it an essential experience for anyone who enjoyed the first entry in the trilogy. A slight overreliance on minigames can occasionally slow the pacing, but it rarely undermines the overall experience. While the Switch 2 version does come with some clear technical compromises, none of them meaningfully diminish how consistently fun and engaging the game is.

Mina the Hollower does for Zelda what Shovel Knight did for Mega Man. It's a revival of a classic franchise in spirit while having enough of its own flavor and style to avoid coming across as a simple clone or copy. It's clever, creative, and an absolute delight to play from start to finish, while having enough bonus content and modifiers to keep the game exciting even after you complete its roughly 20-hour playtime. In a year that's already filled with amazing games, Mina still shines.

Yerba Buena is a flawed but fun puzzle platformer. The gun is fun to use, and while the puzzles in the latter half can get maddeningly difficult in levels that can start to feel like they run for too long, those puzzles can also feel satisfying to solve. The story can be a little bonkers at times, but it is compelling despite some issues that can mar the experience. With a solid presentation, Yerba Buena ends up being a fun experience for those craving a puzzle platformer that feels both different and familiar.

007 First Light shows that the Hitman developers have a good handle on how to make a James Bond game work within their wheelhouse. The emphasis on less flashy espionage alongside multiple avenues to accomplish your given goal works to this game's favor in helping to differentiate it from past 007 games. There's still enough action to prevent the game from feeling like a complete tonal shift from common expectations. The quality of the stealth helps compensate for the combat, which is good but can feel lacking in areas. The adventure remains fun but familiar, while the presentation is top-notch. The game is another good example of how to do a licensed game well, and the hope is that we'll see IO Interactive do more in this universe, whether that's DLC or a full-on sequel.

Zero Parades: For Dead Spies lives in the shadow of something bigger, and it never quite manages to escape it. Its biggest flaws come from a lack of confidence in itself, and when it speaks with its own voice, Zero Parades is truly special and memorable.

Thick as Thieves is a good game if you are OK with a more simplified stealth experience. It is a title that's easy to get into for stealth novices but provides some challenge for genre veterans if you do some real grinding to unlock higher difficulty levels. It would be nice to see a timetable for when new scenarios and levels would arrive, but what's available is good enough for those who want a quick stealth experience before moving on to bigger titles and returning once a big update drops.

Forza Horizon 6 delivers exactly what it promises, but it doesn't really innovate on the franchise. This is basically comfort food gaming. It's fun and familiar, but it doesn't break new ground. If you're a fan of the franchise, you won't be disappointed. If you're new to racing games, Forza Horizon 6 is a fantastic entry point, but if you're on a budget, you may want to pick up a copy of Forza Horizon 5 instead, as it's often on sale.

Like many ports of current generation titles, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is a solid iteration of an excellent title. The game absolutely nails the feeling of a classic Indiana Jones adventure with a great balance of puzzle-solving and action. The dialogue and humor are spot-on, the places you visit are as varied as can be, and the presentation is still incredible on such a seemingly underpowered device. It would've been nice if the DLC were included in the package, and there are still some gameplay elements that don't feel fully fleshed out, but this remains a title that is well worth playing — no matter where you're playing it.

Jay and Silent Bob: Chronic Blunt Punch is fine. The combat is good, especially after the week's worth of patches that have fixed things, like missing invincibility frames and toned down the strength of the enemy hits. The game clocks in at a decent length, and the difficulty is fine if you're OK with only having one life per character and fairly long levels with no checkpoints. There's just nothing that elevates the title into being more than a game you play once. Fans of the duo might dig it, but genre fans will find this to be a filler game that briefly satisfies a craving before moving on to more substantial fare.

Invincible Vs. ends up being a very solid 3v3 tag team fighting game. The fighting system is familiar but solid, and even though it doesn't offer anything revolutionary over other tag fighters, its accessibility ensures that players of all skill levels will immediately be able to have fun. The mode selection is small but provides a good amount of entertainment thanks to the brutality of each fight and the number of unlockables. With a solid presentation behind it, Invincible Vs. is a very enjoyable fighting game for fans of the show and genre alike.

Monster Crown: Sin Eater is a big improvement over the original game. It feels more polished and fleshed out, and thankfully, far less buggy. It's a bit too rough around the edges to make it an easy recommendation, but if you're willing to work past some of the awkward segments, there is a solid monster trainer with a very fun combat system. The story is a bit hit-and-miss, and the freeform nature of the game isn't for everyone, but if you're looking for Pokemon with fewer guardrails, Sin Eater is for you.

Aphelion does well in both providing a good story with emotional pull, while also providing an experience that differs from the studio's previous works. The investigative portions may feel light, but they also provide a nice break from the stealth and climbing sections. The investigation, stealth, and climbing make the game feel more involved than what some may expect for a genre that can border on being walking simulators or Western versions of the visual novel. The presentation is great, and the runtime feels just right, making Aphelion an experience that's well worth checking out.

Saros has become one of my favorite shooters of the past few years, honestly since Returnal. I appreciate Housemarque for giving both the more hardcore and the less hardcore among us the chance to see the world it's crafted in its entirely. My hands hurt a little, and I'll probably need a new controller sometimes soon, but it's a cycle I'm willing to be stuck in for a bit longer.

Tsukuyomi is an odd duck of a game. As an off-brand Shin Megami Tensei card battler, it's pretty fun, despite some obvious balance flaws and a low budget. The story isn't anything great, but it was enough to bolster the gameplay, and I had a good time playing through the main story. For a game that prides itself as being the work of Kazuma Kaneko, the AI-bloated art style deeply detracts from the experience. It's a fun enough experience, but it has enough warts that it can be tough to recommend.

TaVRn's Takedown: Naheulbeuk is a fun game if you have the room for it and you can forgive its quirks. The presentation and fighting are solid, even if your defensive maneuvers don't work all the time. The ability to use anything in the environment to fight with is welcome, while the cards you get to augment your abilities gives the game some depth to prevent the experience from becoming monotonous. While the turn speed is slow, movement in general is good if you have the room for it. TaVRn's Takedown: Naheulbeuk is a good complement to games like Gorn and Drunkn Bar Fight, especially since there's a decently written story to go along with the punching and throwing.

In the end, Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss is fine. The lack of combat combined with a lack of guidance creates a challenging and refreshing experience for most — and frustrating for some. The overall presentation is fine, despite the game's use of an engine intended to deliver stunning visuals. The game will appeal to those who are fascinated with the Cthulhu universe more than those looking for thrills and scares. Players won't feel compelled to stick with this title for long sessions at a time.

Mouse: P.I. for Hire is absolutely excellent. The presentation is stellar, with graphics that accomplish their goal of creating an interactive version of a 1930s cartoon. The soundtrack is good enough to convert players into fans of big band jazz. The shooting and platforming feel right, while the game clocks in at the right length. For fans of both shooting and action in general, Mouse: P.I. for Hire is a must-have title.

Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection is an excellent package and a fantastic way to play what is probably the most overlooked of the various Mega Man sub-franchises. The games have their rough spots, but they're still darn fun action-RPGs that continue the legacy of the Battle Network games. If you enjoyed those games and want more or if you think the concept looks enjoyable, there's no better way to play the Star Force games than this collection.

When Capcom first announced Pragmata six years ago, they couldn't have known the game would be launching a week after the Artemis II mission set a new record for human space travel. Just as NASA's moonshot was a success, so is Capcom's latest game. If you want a polished experience that brings something new to the table, you can't go wrong with Pragmata.

Pokémon Pokopia is a delight. If you're fond of Pokémon for anything besides combat, you'll almost certainly find something to like. It's freeform enough that anyone can pick up and play without feeling confined, but it's structured enough that even those who bounce off crafting games like Minecraft might find something to like. Even if you're a newcomer to the franchise, this may be one of the best ways to introduce yourself to Nintendo's collectible monster behemoth.

By and large, Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition is a very nice bundle if you loved the original Rayman and would like a nice, concise package of its history. You are effectively only getting mostly slightly remixed versions of the same game, so it depends on whether the price tag is worth it for essentially one platformer. The lack of the original soundtrack is probably the big blemish on the collection, but it's still a solid package for those who want to see where the weird, limbless hero began his adventures.

Paranormasight: The Mermaid's Curse is a sequel that is firing on all cylinders. While not as overtly horrific as the first game, it nonetheless shows that the developers have a clear understanding of what did and didn't work in The Seven Mysteries and still have plenty of ideas about how to make things compelling. An excellent game for those who've played the original and those who are new to the series, The Mermaid's Curse is well worth a shot.

TR-49 is an engrossing puzzle game. The idea of solving a mystery through hyperlinking is novel, and the simplified implementation of decoding pages by matching code references with the title is thrilling in action, even if it doesn't seem that way on paper. The main story is fine, but the story told within the documents will be more interesting to some, and the presentation is also good. The performance issue drags down things, and if that can be patched out, then TR-49 is a game that earns its place in a puzzle fan's library.

Overall, People of Note is a fun and fluffy RPG. The plot isn't life-changing, but it's bolstered by a strong combat system, excellent music, and some surprisingly fun puzzles. The musical numbers may not work for everyone, but they gave it their best shot, and there's at least one song for everybody. People of Note isn't the first musical RPG, but it emphasizes that the two genres go together like peanut butter and jelly.

Sigma Star Saga DX is an interesting revival of a cool but flawed game. There's a lot I like in concept rather than in execution, but neither is it particularly bad. The combat and puzzle exploration can get a little long in the tooth by the time you reach the end of the game, but it's fun enough to be a worthwhile playthrough. It's a perfectly solid re-release that alleviates — but doesn't necessarily fix — the original version's worst flaws. If you're curious, it's well worth a shot, and if nothing else, it's a very cool experiment from a long-lived developer.

Aside from the fact that the collection preserves titles that would otherwise be considered lost due to the trials of licensing, Marvel Maximum Collection is a game that will garner varying degrees of praise depending on which title you're playing. Two-thirds of the titles provide a very fun time under the right conditions, and while Captain America and the Avengers can be hit-and-miss for some, Spider-Man and X-Men in Arcade's Revenge is just a bad game whose only value is as a title of curiosity. That's not a bad batting average for the compilation, and while it would've been better if some of the more memorable Marvel Genesis titles were also included, what is present will be satisfying enough for fans of Marvel and the late 8-bit and 16-bit eras.

Darwin's Paradox is an enjoyable puzzle platformer from start to finish. The platforming feels good, while the puzzle aspects aren't overwhelming to the point that it detracts from the journey. The octopus abilities are well implemented and don't feel difficult to use, and the overall journey feels like it moves along at a good clip without meandering for too long. With a gorgeous presentation in place, there's little to gripe about, and fans of puzzle platforming who value experience over challenge will love Darwin's Paradox.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage sets itself up as the real definitive version of this long-running entry in the series. Online play is still the main focus, and it helps that the performance is good, while cross-play ensures a longer than expected online life for the game. The single-player content is fine from a purist perspective; it'll keep you busy with fight after fight, but don't expect anything deeper than that. It looks and performs well on the system, and that's all you can really ask for. This is a great addition for Switch 2 owners who love fighting games, but it would be really nice to get more info on a brand-new entry rather than another port of this title.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is a solid entry for Nintendo fans who have always wanted to play in this world. The game does a good job of making each character's play style feel distinct, while also keeping the experience fun in the process. The missions can start to feel very similar after a while, but the amount of content means that there's plenty to do before you'll see the end credits roll. The presentation remains impressive overall, and unless you're completely burned out on open-world adventure games, Shadows is a good one to get stuck on.

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake is an interesting example of how modernizing a game can be both a plus and minus. It looks fantastic, it's deeper and more complex, and it offers a lot more to do. At the same time, not all of its changes hit the mark, and some areas that were improved actually detract from the whole. It's still a darn fun game, but it feels like a "sidegrade," rather than an upgrade to the original.

The Liar Princess and the Blind Prince is a good game burdened by some unfortunate flaws. The story is engaging from beginning to end, and it can get pretty emotional at times. The concept of changing forms to deal with different situations is good, while the presentation catches your senses. Some will lament the game's lack of challenge, while others will hate how the game sometimes feels like it's limiting your controls so you'll encounter death more often than necessary. The narrative may compel you to play it, but you'll only enjoy it if you have the patience to deal with its issues.

John Carpenter's Toxic Commando is a solid fun time. It isn't a revolutionary game in the four-player co-op genre, but all of the changes it makes have a positive impact on the experience. The performance is very good all around, and despite having a linear storyline to follow, it's replayable thanks to the classes, skill trees, and number of things to level up. For those looking for a return to a co-op experience that's about more shooting and less thinking, Toxic Commando is it.

Overall, God of War: Sons of Sparta is a fun Metroidvania. It captures the feel of God of War, if in a somewhat more lighthearted way than usual. As a Metroidvania title, there's not much — either good or bad — that makes it stand apart from the pack. If you're a fan of the franchise and don't mind a look at the younger days of the Ghost of Sparta, then it's absolutely worth a shot, but the price tag might make it a heavy ask for more casual Metroidvania fans.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is best described as a refined and improved Monster Hunter Stories 2. It doesn't really change the core concept, but pretty much every change in the game is for the better. The new story is easier to engage with, the combat system is more fun than ever, and in general, it's a great leap forward without losing anything that made the previous games fun. Only some minor frame rate issues drag down the Switch 2 experience, and they're not enough to sour an otherwise fantastic game.

Like many yearly sports games, WWE 2K26 works best if you haven't played the previous title. If you skipped a year or two and decided to return, you'll find the new modes, big roster update, and further solidification of the gameplay mechanics to be big improvements over what was available before. For everyone else, the slight improvements to existing modes are far outweighed by the increase of nickel-and-diming players who've already paid money for the game. The changes to the Season Pass system make the game too grindy for anyone who won't dedicate all of their free time to this title. This isn't bad, but only die-hard fans will get excited over WWE 2K26.

There are two groups I see iRacing Arcade appealing to the most: people who are new to racing games in general and people who want something racing-themed for some unserious fun. It's a bit brilliant that iRacing Arcade sets up the former with a pipeline to get into the more serious iRacing platform. Despite having my own iRacing account and a significant sim racing setup of my own, I had a lot of fun with iRacing Arcade. It is a simpler game, not in a way that makes it feel inferior, but in a way that makes it stand out as an option to just get in some quick, casual racing fun.

Esoteric Ebb is a multitude of things: a low-stakes political mystery, a comedy with solid writing and fleshed-out characters that have personalities even if there are no vocal performances to go with them, and it's a good-looking game that feels like the spirit of Disco Elysium. Most of all, it's an enjoyable experience that begs for multiple playthroughs to see all of the different scenarios and personalities. This is a pleasant surprise of a title, and those who value good dialogue above all else will be very happy with Esoteric Ebb.

Tales of Berseria Remastered is an odd duck. It's a barely necessary remastered version of an absolutely excellent game that PlayStation owners can already purchase for half the price. It's easily the best version of the game with some fantastic QoL improvements and all the DLC packed in at a much lower price than buying them separately. However, if you're already a longtime fan who already owns the game and has purchased the DLC, Remastered is probably not worth the extra cost. If you're a newcomer to the game and don't mind shelling out a little more for bells and whistles, Remastered is the version you should get.

The Disney Afternoon Collection was already a solid package, but barring any updates on other platforms, the Switch and Switch 2 versions have now become the definitive versions of this title. Bonkers may be something of a dud, but Goof Troop is a hidden gem. The other titles in the collection are quite good, with TaleSpin being the only exception to that rule for the original game set. While the extras haven't expanded that much, what's present is still pretty nice. If you're a fan of retro games or have some nostalgia for these cartoons, be sure to pick up this compilation, especially since the addition of two more games didn't increase the price.

Resident Evil: Requiem is a solid but very disjointed game. It feels like two extremely fun games that don 't necessarily mix well together. There 's a lot of clever mechanics, effective scenes, and excellent combat mechanics that make it a ton of fun to play, but it also has a meandering and borderline nonsensical plot, drawn-out set pieces, and a lack of focus. At the end of the day, it 's absolutely worth checking out if you 're a Resident Evil fan because when it is hitting its mark, it 's one of the best games in the franchise. Even at its worst, it 's a case of wishing that it could've been more.

The Switch 2 version of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is very good, especially from a technical standpoint. Low-resolution textures aside, the game looks excellent, and the near-constant 60fps really makes the game feel close to what you got on the PS4, only now it's in a portable form. The core game remains as solid as ever, and with everything in one package, Biohazard is an easy choice for a Resident Evil fan who only has access to Nintendo platforms.

The Switch 2 version of Resident Evil Village stands up there with Resident Evil 7: Biohazard as being an absolutely solid port for the hybrid console. The frame rate is almost rock solid throughout, and while a good chunk of lower-resolution textures is still present, they aren't as noticeable as before. The core game is still excellent, but it caters more to the action crowd like Resident Evil 4 did instead of the true survival-horror vibe of the previous title. Those who only own Nintendo consoles but love horror will get a kick out of this title, especially since it comes in a more reliable form than the original Switch version.

It may not replace Elden Ring in my heart, but Nioh 3 is a new high bar for the series and one of the most engaging and exciting Soulslikes I've had the fortune of playing. Top-of-the-line combat and a brand-new and surprisingly engaging open world make it a fantastic place to start for newcomers or longtime franchise fans alike. Aside from a somewhat weak plot, there's nothing holding back Nioh 3; it's absolutely worth picking up.

Unfortunately, Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is the weakest Yakuza title in quite some time. The original game had its flaws, and Kiwami addresses some of those flaws, but the new content is of a mixed quality. There's some notably missing content, and some of the storyline changes are inexplicable. The improved combat and emphasis on Kiryu's time with the orphans are by far the best part of the experience. Mine's story is fun enough but not something that's worth it unless you already like the character. At its heart, Kiwami 3 is still a Yakuza game and still mostly a good time, but despite the improvements, it's more of a sideways step than an upgrade of the original.

Romeo Is a Dead Man really is made for fans of Grasshopper Manufacture. The story is bonkers but not confusing. The gameplay is solid, but it has plenty of elements that give the game an overall sense of strangeness and character. Its presentation may not be the strongest, but it is also unique enough considering that the game uses a very popular engine. Romeo isn't quite a game for everyone, but the game will pique your interest if you're an action fan looking for something that's slightly off the beaten path.

My Hero Academia: All's Justice is a game where every advancement comes with some regression, locking the game in place rather than moving things forward. The use of fully animated cut scenes is a long time coming, but the inclusion of still shots remains disappointing. The expansion of modes is good, but the presence of a hub world as a replacement for a menu can feel unnecessary. The move to a full 3v3 fighting system is awesome, but the severe reduction of environments and removal of their interactivity robs the game of some spectacle that the series had been known for up to that point. In the end, the game is still good, but it's best as a complementary game to My Hero One's Justice 2 rather than a replacement.

Overall, Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is a fantastic remake that hits all the right marks. I don't necessarily agree with all of the changes made, but they work with what the game is going for. It's an engaging, fun, and well-made Dragon Quest game that is among the best of the franchise. There's no better way to play than Reimagined, especially if you are interested in Dragon Quest VII but felt intimidated by the time commitment. Even longtime fans of the series will find new surprises and new experiences to enjoy.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a game that's saved by its characters. Their personalities are as fleshed out as we'd expect from a Don't Nod adventure game, they're the driving force in getting you through the story. The presentation is top-notch as usual, and the tweaks to the choice system give the game enough room to feel a little different from the studio's past adventures. It's just too bad that the story isn't paced so well, and the tale feels like a setup for something bigger in a future game rather than something that is more self-contained. The game is still fairly enjoyable if you know what you're getting into, but don't expect the title to feel as complete as others, like the first Life is Strange or Tell Me Why.

In the end, Layers of Fear: The Final Masterpiece Edition is fine but nothing more than that. From a technical standpoint, seeing an Unreal Engine 5 game running on the Switch 2 still feels like magic, considering how underpowered the system is compared to other consoles. The shimmering lights and the blurring of moving elements show the engine's limitations rather clearly. From a narrative standpoint, the game starts off strongly with the story of The Painter, but it tapers off when you get to the rest of The Painter's family. The tales of the Actor, Director and Writer don't carry the same type of impact due to diminishing returns. From a gameplay perspective, the game starts off strongly, and while the later portions falter a bit, they get better if you use some of the game's built-in modifiers. While Layers of Fear may not be the best horror title in the Switch library, it remains a good one if you're a big fan of the genre.

Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade was an incredible game when it came out, and it has aged wonderfully well. There isn't much new material in Remake Intergrade for those who've already played it, but the handheld mechanics offer a nice way to casually replay the game. The core gameplay is as fun as ever, the characters are still tremendously likable, the music is phenomenal, and it's absolutely worth playing if you're remotely a fan of the franchise or RPGs in general.

MIO: Memories in Orbit is a charming, enjoyable and perfectly well-made Metroidvania. The core gameplay loop is engaging, and there's enough room for upgrades and mastery of skills to keep the relatively simple combat feeling fun throughout. Some awkward platforming drags down the experience a little, but it's not enough to sour the whole. All in all, MIO feels like a great game for fans of Metroidvania-style games to play, and while it may not exactly reinvent the wheel, it shows that a well made game in the genre can still be addictive and fun.

Shadow Labyrinth is good if you set your expectations accordingly. The constant corpse eating makes the game feel darker than expected, while the mazes are a nice diversion. The overall mechanics don't stand out compared to other titles, but the basics are performed well enough that the game remains enjoyable. The presentation is good but not great, while the story and overall premise exists more as an exercise in head-scratching than something you're going to want to remember. Again, the game is better than expected but not extraordinary; Metroidvania fans will get some enjoyment out of this before moving on to stronger titles.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through the Horizon is the franchise's first step into its endgame, and for the most part, it sticks the landing admirably. The gameplay hasn't changed much from the previous entries, but the overall storytelling and character beats are a massive step up from Daybreak 2. Its biggest flaws are some overall slow pacing and the fact that you'll need a lot of prior Trails knowledge to feel invested in the game. It's nothing that would stop longtime fans from having fun.

QQQbeats!!! is a fun game that's made some notable improvements over the formula established by Touhou Spell Bubble. The fully voiced cut scenes and addition of rapid-fire rhythm segments make the game more exciting, while the addition of a co-op mode gives Touhou Spell Bubble fans something different to look forward to. The soundtrack is excellent, and even though the online community is gone, the presence of local play means that the solid gameplay mechanics can still be experienced long after the campaign is done. QQQbeats!!! is a hidden gem of a game, and fans of puzzle and rhythm games should seek this one out.

Groove Coaster: Future Performers is still a solid entry in the rhythm game series. The base game mechanics provide a fun rhythm game experience for a wide variety of skill levels — if you won't feel overwhelmed by the visuals. The soundtrack remains excellent, as always. The smaller song selection is disappointing, while the main story mode is fine if you can power through an uninteresting tale. Series veterans may come away a little underwhelmed, but newcomers may find this to be an enjoyable first entry before diving into the older but ultimately deeper Groove Coaster: Wai Wai Party.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - From The Ashes is a pleasant surprise, especially for those who didn't care too much about the base game when it was originally released. The different perspective alone makes this feel less like Far Cry, even though the actions haven't changed too much. The lack of fluff makes the game feel more focused, and the game remains exciting thanks to the addition of more formidable boss fights and finishing moves. Nothing will convince non-fans to give this game a shot, but if you had a passing interest in the Avatar franchise, this DLC is a pretty good showcase of what a good Avatar game can be like.

There's a pretty good RPG hiding in Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader. The story is interesting, the quests are plentiful, the characters are well rounded, and there's plenty of depth in the RPG systems. However, the graphical presentation is merely passable, while the performance varies so greatly that you need a ton of patience to get through all of the hitching and long load times. This is a game to be avoided for now, but if the promised patches improve the performance issues, then those who crave a really meaty RPG in the infamous grimdark sci-fi universe will have a very good time.

Your assessment of Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection is going to depend on what kind of player you are. If you're the ultra-competitive type who wants more than local fights, you'll be disappointed. The splintering of online play and lack of lobbies means that trying to find a game is needlessly painful, and with lobbies still in a beta state as of the time of this writing, it'll take longer than expected to get a PC-only community going for this compilation. If you're a more casual player or prefer local play, then the recent fixes to controller latency make this a very enjoyable experience all around. The solo campaign still feels grueling due to an unflinching difficulty level. The historical content and game library make this a great pick-up for those who love game history. If you just want to play the games offline, you'll greatly enjoy this experience.

Escape From Duckov is a pleasant surprise provided you have the patience for it. The focus on solo play for an extraction shooter relieves the game of any obvious griefing from overly ambitious players. The slow progression may irk those looking for constant action, but it also will please those players who appreciate being surprised by tense standoffs that start and end quickly. Even if the concept may have started out as a joke, the game shows that it can take itself seriously and provide an enjoyable experience. Unless you absolutely need native controller support, Escape from Duckov is a game worth checking out if you've always been interested in the extraction shooter concept but want to do so without real people constantly hunting you down.

NBA 2K26 retains its standard as being the most complete and polished hoops experiences out there, but I think one of the things that's holding it back for this old player is the feeling that it's still finding its way on how to nail all of the story elements in its MyCareer mode. It's done it before. I'd like to see them do it again.

Ultimately, it feels like Wreckreation tries to be too many things at once. An open-world setting allows for a lot of room for players to create events using the Live Mix tools, but driving between events gets dull quickly. As a conventional racing game, the rubber-banding AI makes me lose interest quickly, and the game doesn't emphasize the Live Mix content as strongly as it arguably should. It's a fun enough game, and it's smaller in scope since it was made by a smaller team. It lacks a defining feature of its own that it really focuses on, and it ends up making the game feel more like an imitation of other games.

Skate Story is a strange game. It's bizarre, obscure, and frequently ridiculous, so the tone and atmosphere might be too off-putting for some. If it works for you, I suspect it is really going to work for you. The gameplay is perfectly serviceable, and while it never quite reaches the heights of excellence, it more than shines for its purposes. Skate Story is a game that shines when taken as a whole, particularly the way the graphics and music work together. If you're even remotely curious about the concept, it's worth giving it a shot.

One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 remains one of the best Musou games out there, and that status is further solidified with the slight changes made by the free current-generation console patch. The core gameplay loop remains engaging in its simplicity, but the additions of an expanded move set and a wide variety of characters who play differently assuage any concerns of fatigue. The quests can start to feel too similar, but the various modes give fans plenty to do. The presence of multiplayer for a good chunk of the game also greatly extends the life of the game. If you're a fan of either Musou titles or One Piece, this title is well worth having.

Octopath Traveler 0 might be a rebuild of a gacha game, but it's a fun, engaging and excellent stand-alone JRPG. There's no trace of the microtransactions and monetization, and what remains is a game that captures much of what makes the Octopath franchise so beloved. I expected something half-baked and got what might be my favorite entry in the franchise to date, and it's a title that I'd consider to be a must-play for fans of turn-based RPGs.

As mentioned before, Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a very good title, and Tribute Games shows that it knows how to do a beat-'em-up well. The additions to the standard brawling mechanics make it a deep game for those wanting an evolution in the genre, but it remains simple enough for button-mashers to enjoy. The game runs at a good length and initially seems easy, but that changes once you start unlocking the modifiers. The amount of unlocks and challenges provide completionists with a good reason to return again and again.

A.I.L.A. is a game that has potential but fails with the follow-through. The idea of AI generating experiences meant to terrify you while also affecting you outside of the game still works. The games that represent different horror experiences do a good job of taking something familiar and making it its own. While the puzzles are fine, the combat drags down everything greatly, and the pacing means that the whole game becomes an unenjoyable roller coaster ride. There's a chance for improvement with patches, but at the moment, you'll want to wait and see if things get better before diving in.

As stated earlier in the review, Marvel's Deadpool VR is a good game overall. While the title may not contain the usual expected elements in a VR title, it helps the medium become more mature by being as long as an average non-VR title and by being more than a glorified shooting gallery. Except for the grappling hook issue, the game controls well and plays spectacularly. Combat is inventive and features diverse weaponry. This is a well thought-out title that fans of action games and Deadpool will enjoy, provided they haven't gotten tired of his antics yet.

Dispatch is a genuine delight from start to finish. Aside from the minor (and as of this writing, now irrelevant) nag of having to wait for the entire "season" to be done, I can't think of any strong complaints. The characters are fun and likable, the plot is pretty darn enjoyable, and it's probably the most fun Telltale-style game I've ever played. Add to that the fun dispatch-themed gameplay, and you've got something that's firing on all cylinders. If the crude humor and concept don't turn you off, Dispatch is a must-play for any superhero fans.

Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection - The Namco Legendary Pack DLC marks an excellent addition to the base game. These are some classics for the Atari family of systems, and considering that Namco barely addresses these iterations, it is good to see them on modern platforms, warts and all. As usual, the documentary sections make this collection worthwhile, so if you're a retro enthusiast, be sure to snag this piece of DLC.

Where Winds Meet has potential. We're starting to see RPGs in a Wuxia setting, and this is perhaps the most compelling one yet. The number of activities varies greatly, and the combat feels wonderful. The game's vastness means that there's loads of longevity, even if the experience can feel like a grind at times. The many systems at play can lead to a confusing experience, especially since the game does a poor job of teaching you the gameplay mechanics. The spotty presentation doesn't do the game any favors when coupled with the lack of translation in places. If you're willing to put up with all of these hindrances from the start, you'll find a game that does a good job of keeping you interested. Most people will be better served by waiting to see if the team can add some much-needed polish before jumping in.

Hotel Barcelona has a handful of flaws, but if you're willing to stick it out, there is a gem of a game underneath the rough surface. While I would've liked to see more polish and a few more levels to explore, the core gameplay loop is solid. I continually went back to Hotel Barcelona for "just one more run," even after I'd beaten the main story. It's also a good choice for busier gamers with limited play time, since a single run can be completed in a 15-minute setting. Hotel Barcelona is not a game for everyone, but if you're a fan of cheaper, quirky titles (like me), this is your jam.

Once Upon a Katamari is another excellent title in the series. The game design is still timeless, and the act of picking up everything in your path never gets old. The additions of power-ups don't change the game dramatically, but the solid level design and varied objectives do a good job at keeping the game fresh. The time travel concept also helps in that regard. Still bathed in that joyful but lo-fi presentation, Once Upon a Katamari is a game that's benefitted from long stretches between releases and remains a great title for both veterans and newcomers alike.

Tales of Xillia Remastered is an excellent remaster of a darn solid and enjoyable JRPG. While it doesn't quite reach the highest highs of other games in the franchise, neither does it reach the lowest lows. It's a solid, enjoyable and well-crafted JRPG from start to finish, and the remastered version of the game is the best way to experience it. Even if the combat doesn't shine quite as brightly as in Tales of Graces f, the entire package is arguably one of the best ways to experience Tales at its most consistently fun.

Your feelings on the latest iteration of Painkiller will depend on several different factors. If you're looking for a title with a good story and characters or crave a true single-player experience, you'll hate it. If you're looking for something that doesn't require grinding to get the most out of the title, you'll also dislike the game. If you're looking for boomer shooter sensibilities in a co-op setting and really dig the different hellish vibes, you'll like Painkiller. Even then, unless you're a completionist, it'll take one run through all of the levels and perhaps a few attempts at the roguelike mode before you move on, making this a fleeting experience rather than something with staying power.

Dragon Quest 1&2 HD-2D Remake is a wonderful remake of a pair of classic games. It's clear a lot of time and energy was invested in attempting to modernize the originals without losing what makes them distinct, and they've generally succeeded and succeeded well. Most of the improvements add to the game, and the revamped plots are a step up from the original. The game's only problem is that it's an extremely shiny and well-crafted update of two NES-era RPGs. Assuming you're not turned off by that concept, there's no better way to experience the origin of the genre than by playing Dragon Quest 1&2 HD-2D Remake.

Full Metal Schoolgirl is both ridiculous and addictive. The hack-and-slash and shooting gameplay isn't hindered by the inclusion of a stamina meter, and the constant slew of upgrades keeps the roguelike gameplay feeling fresh even after going through 100+ levels. The presentation has occasional hiccups, as does some parts of the gameplay, but there's nothing that actively takes away from a fun experience. Don't expect anything groundbreaking, but those looking for action in a cheesy setting won't be disappointed by Full Metal Schoolgirl.

The new content is certainly spookier than the base game, so it's fitting that it's being released a little more than a week before Halloween. The new features of Whispers in the Woods are a fresh coat of paint on the otherwise familiar wagon, and they're a compelling reason to get back behind the wheel if it's been a while since your last Pacific Drive.

As stated in the beginning, The Lonesome Guild is a solid adventure game all around. The RPG elements are deep enough to give the action some teeth, while the action is easy to pick up but is involved enough that the game isn't a button-masher. The adventure is entertaining, while the story gives the game some unexpected heart. The Lonesome Guild will make adventure fans happy.

Bounty Star: The Morose Tale of Graveyard Clem is a fun game that never manages to make all of its mechanics blend together well. There are a lot of strong ideas that I really like independent of each other, but it never feels like a cohesive whole. There's still a lot of fun to be had in blasting bandits and helping Clem go from the graveyard to the farmyard, but it's very much a game with big ideas that it doesn't always live up to. If the concept sounds interesting, it's probably well worth a shot. Just be prepared for an experience that doesn't always hit the mark.

The Outer Worlds 2 is a solid, engaging and enjoyable follow-up to the original game. It changes its dynamic and tone enough that it can potentially turn off people who really loved the original. At the same time, it feels like something that might work better for those who prefer their RPGs to be less goofy. There's a varied and interesting set of character builds available, and it's easy to imagine playing the game multiple times to see distinctly different outcomes for various quests. If you're looking for a solid RPG with some good meat on its bones, The Outer Worlds 2 does everything it needs to do.

Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted is the definitive version of this classic strategy game. The gameplay is simple to understand but challenging, and the formula holds up as much today as it did when the game was first released 16 years ago. The presentation is absolutely clean all around, and the number of modes ensures that it'll take some time before you can truly explore everything on offer. Having an online option would've been nice, but considering how nothing really valuable was removed from this iteration, the lack of online play at launch is fine. Longtime fans of the series will immediately be happy with this game, while newcomers will be in for a very fun-filled ride.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is a darn function action game that unfortunately avoids the heights that one might expect, given the pedigree of the developers. The very fun core combat shines, but everything surrounding it feels underbaked. The rushed ending and lackluster second character keep it from shining as brightly as it should. It's still a fun character action game with some satisfying and meaty combat, and it's something that fans of the genre should enjoy.

You'll have a good experience with Arcade Archives 2: Ace Combat 22, provided you know what you're getting into. The gameplay loop is quite simple, and the experience seems short, at least initially, which might make it a tough sell for more casual players. When you start diving into the game mechanics and the various difficulty levels (and inherent differences), you'll find a title that appeals to both high score-chasers and completionists due to the various possible campaign paths. Those looking to add to their current arcade collection will find this game to be a great addition to that library, especially since it never received a home port before. Everyone else will find a game that has a surprising amount of depth, despite its quarter-munching roots.

Keeper is a keeper. The story is good, but the method in which it is told is memorable because few other games try to do it effectively. The gameplay is simple to grasp, with only a few puzzles that are challenging and only a few instances when the camera is a hindrance. Fans of adventure games will enjoy this short experience with good pacing and a solid presentation.

Arcade Archives: Super Dimension Fortress Macross II is a great addition to Hamster's lineup because it's such a distinct shooter. You normally don't see a caravan-style shooter, so the game immediately feels different when compared to the other shoot-'em-up titles for retro enthusiasts. The presence of different difficulty levels gives the game some legs, as does the fact that you need some actual skill to beat the game instead of using infinite continues. The game features a solid audio and visual presentation, so shooting fans will find a lot to like in this game.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a very good game and a distinct title for the Switch 2's launch library. The various mechanics blend together quite well — and in a way that doesn't feel like padding. The pacing does a good job of keeping you interested without using scenarios that overstay their welcome. With a solid presentation to back up everything, Kunitsu-Gami is an experience that will remain as intriguing as it does now. For those looking to bolster their Switch 2 library, Kunitsu-Gami is a wonderful title to have in the collection.

Absolum is pretty much everything you could want in a roguelike beat-'em-up. It's engaging, constantly varied, fun to play, gorgeous to look at, and it's pretty much a nonstop good time. The only way I can see a fan of the beat-'em-up genre not liking Absolum is if they don't like roguelikes. Even then, I could see it melting some hearts. It's a delight from start to finish, and the game is nearly impossible to put down.

Star Wars: Beyond Victory is a neat experience. The Adventure mode does a good job of mixing together VR and mixed reality while telling a good story in the beloved universe. The racing is novel yet forgiving when you consider the viewpoint, while the Playset mode is pretty neat if you're into posing action figures in semi-ridiculous ways. Unfortunately, the entire experience is fun but pretty short (even by VR standards), making this feel like a fleeting experience.

Sonic Racing: Crossworlds is an excellent kart racer from start to finish. It's not just good for a Sonic game but arguably the best kart racer this year, and that's saying something in a year that gave us a new Mario Kart. It's easy to pick up, fun to play, packed with details for fans of the characters, and it remains accessible to newcomers. It's unbelievably fun to blitz around a corner, pop a boost, and rocket through a portal into a land of dinosaurs. If you're looking for a good racer, then Sonic Racing: Crossworlds is everything you could want.

Star Wars Outlaws is a very solid title for fans of big, open-world adventures. Although the Ubisoft open-world formula can feel a little too familiar, it still fits well in the Star Wars universe. Even if some of the systems feel half-baked, the combat and stealth feel good enough, especially if you strictly play on Nintendo consoles. An open world that doesn't go into the expected Star Wars tropes is always welcome. The presentation pushes the console without devolving into a broken mess, and it's a good showcase for the system's capabilities.