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For 2,228 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 52% higher than the average critic
  • 9% same as the average critic
  • 39% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.3 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 71
Highest review score: 100 Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy
Lowest review score: 6 The Language Of Love
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,073 out of 2228
  2. Mixed: 885 out of 2228
  3. Negative: 270 out of 2228
2232 game reviews
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    • 85 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Blasphemous 2
    When all is said and done I believe Blasphemous 2 will sit high atop the Metroidvania Pantheon. However, throughout almost my entire time with the game, I couldn’t get the first game out of my mind – thinking how I should go back and play it again or finish off all of the free bonus DLC. The new weapon system with its three separate weapons gives this a good amount of replayability and allows for many different playstyles which is great. As a whole, the sequel is much more approachable for new players to the genre, and while there are plenty of improvements and quality-of-life additions, I can’t help but feel that Blasphemous 2 is the inferior product. Hopefully, the Game Kitchen plans on adding additional content here as they did with the original. I enjoyed my time with the game, but it needs something more to really draw me back in.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 96 Critic Score
    Hogwarts Legacy
    This is the most in-depth look into the wizarding world of Harry Potter we’ve ever seen and being able to explore with hours of content to discover, quest, and fight through. Hogwarts Legacy is worth the price point and is a well polished addition to the wizarding world.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 96 Critic Score
    Remnant II
    Remnant II improves on its predecessors in every way, adding depth and variety in all the places it needed to. Whether played solo or with friends it is a polished and accomplished sequel that Gunfire Games should be proud of.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan
    I decided to review Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan on a whim, and I’m glad I did. There’s a lot to like here, and I think it could appeal to a lot of different gamers. The story goes off the deep end in terms of wholesomeness and could be perfect for children that know how to read. The exploration, the monster befriending, and the wonderful art style are the best parts and I found the game hard to put down, many nights I’d tell myself “oh, I’ll just play one more island real quick” – “Gotta recolor ‘em all!”
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Alters
    Technical issues aside, we’ve had a great time playing The Alters. It poses tough choices and requirements to the player, and gives us a tight time limit and a thousand other things to keep track of, all while teasing us with new exposition or areas to explore that we’ll never get to in one sitting. It’s a tough game, but give it the time it deserves and you find yourself deeply invested in Jan(s) home.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Q.U.B.E. 10th Anniversary
    First person puzzlers are my jam, and I’m glad I finally got to check out Q.U.B.E via this 10th Anniversary Edition release. The puzzles are well crafted, with enough new mechanics added at just the right time to prevent things getting stale. Add in a passable tale and some lovely new visuals, and we have a game that comes easily recommended to all but the most puzzle adverse players. And look at that, not a single Portal comparison!
    • 85 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Age of Wonders: Planetfall
    Despite having a vertical drop for a learning curve and looking and feeling kind of average as far as modern gaming goes, Age of Wonders: Planetfall succeeds in being a richly deep and complex space strategy hybrid that will no doubt appeal to long time turn-based strategy fans, and newcomers alike.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 96 Critic Score
    A Plague Tale: Requiem
    A Plague Tale: Requiem has improved on the already great Innocence in basically every way, giving a game that feels, plays, looks, sounds, and flows absolutely brilliantly. A worthy sequel, and one that is not to be missed.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Backfirewall_
    Overall, Backfirewall_ is a unique and entertaining game that offers a fresh and original experience. The game’s clever puzzles, diverse app-characters, and numerous collectibles make it an engaging and rewarding game to play. Its humour adds an element of fun and playfulness to the game. If you’re looking for a narrative, adventure, puzzle game that is a bit different from the norm, then Backfirewall_ is a game you won’t want to miss.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
    Monster Boy is classic adventure platforming action, but done with such style and panache that it outshines many recent examples of the genre. There’s a brilliantly paced difficulty curve, with new powers, characters and items dispensed at just the right moments. Combat is standard, but intelligent use of the aforementioned aspects means it never gets tiresome or frustrating. It helps that the game looks and sounds sensational. This, is a must have.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series
    The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series brings together some of the best narrative games of the last decade in a package that celebrates not only the series, but every single person – be they creators, actors or fans – that has been there along the way. If you’ve never experienced the series before, this collection is now the perfect opportunity to jump in.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Trials Rising
    The “one more go” Trials formula that we all know and love is back, and it’s back at its absolute finest. Rising is the deepest, lengthiest, and most enthralling entry in the series to date. Everything from its refined trademark difficulty and its addictive physics-based play, right up to its epic track design and its truly sensational camerawork, is nothing short of outstanding. That being said, RedLynx really needs to address its screen tearing, and fast.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Desperados III
    Desperados III is a great prequel to the Desperado series. With great visuals, gameplay and a challenging story line you can be sure you will have a blast with this title. Gameplay is solid, and with memorable characters you can place your cards and know you have a winner.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled
    Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is easily one of the best kart racers of the gen so far. It’s gorgeous, it’s deep, it’s sensationally remade, and it’s wholly entertaining across all aspects of play. The only real drawback sits with its constant loading screens. If, however, you’ve the patience to forgive such a niggling issue, the game sports plenty of exciting content, and heaps of multiplayer modes to keep you going for hours on end, and then some.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Touryst
    The Touryst was a joy to play. It’s fun, calming, and simple. The puzzles can sometimes be tough to figure out, but it is satisfying when you solve it. It’s not long at about 5-7 hours to complete and it’s currently on Gamepass, so if you’re a subscriber give it a go!
    • 84 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & The Envisioned Land
    Atelier Yumia’s first bout is a fun, open world crafting game that offers more than just clearing icons on a map—its verticality while offering player creativity through movement and housing tools make for a good time. It’s everything its developer has been building towards, and I’ve come away quite impressed with what they’ve got to offer.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Wasteland 3
    Wasteland 3 is overall a great tactical game to play. Add some realism to the game and put yourself in the game, then go off and make your own decisions as you see fit. Aside from the loading times you’re sure to have a great time like I did.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    Unsighted
    I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing some great games this year, and I’ve played dozens of other releases, but right now Unsighted might be my favorite game I’ve played in 2021. It’s truly a love letter to Metroidvanias, Zelda games, and action-adventure/RPGs. Studio Pixel Punk went above and beyond packing the game with interesting and unique content, taking design elements that work from classic games, and combining them with their own ideas. They also went out of their way to accommodate all sorts of players, by implementing multiple difficulty levels, assists, and additional gameplay modes. This game is a steal at $20 and for those of you with a Game Pass subscription, you’d be committing a crime by not trying it out.
    • 84 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Elden Ring Nightreign
    There is a certain type of player who is going to love this game. That person is not me. I’ve not been this disappointed by a Fromsoftware game in a long time. And I’ve played Murakumo: Renegade Mech Pursuit.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Gears 5
    I can say with absolute certainty that Gears 5 is an astonishingly fun video game. The excellent flow of combat established in prior entries has been implemented here almost flawlessly, the audio/visual feedback is intense, and there’s even a compelling, touching narrative in there to boot. The open world areas let the pace down a bit, and some difficulty spikes can frustrate, but overall if you’re after an action experience, you cannot go wrong here.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The Colonists
    The Colonists is a ‘warm cup of hot chocolate on a cold day’ kind of game, very comforting, peaceful RTS with plenty of depth and stats under the hood to warrant sticking with it.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Battlefield 6
    All in all, Battlefield 6 feels very much like a game of two parts; the campaign is an exhilarating spectacle that lacks any narrative interest whatsoever, while the multiplayer is just all out chaos is the best way. It will have its learning curve for new players, but DICE certainly has a very good online shooter contender this time around, and it’s something that will keep drawing me back for some time as I attempt to get even remotely passable at it. Hopefully before the next game…
    • 84 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Forza Motorsport
    Overall, if you enjoyed previous Forza Motorsport titles then you’re again going to enjoy this one too. It has plenty of racing, lots of tracks, and even more cars to be getting involved in. Forza Motorsport is slowly pushing more and more towards that sim racer but there is still plenty of the arcade feel to keep things accessible to newcomers and being an Xbox Studios title you can guarantee long after you’ve finished up the single-player content, there will be countless weekly additions of multiplayer events to keep you coming back for more should you wish to make this your number one go to racer. For me though, it’s simply just more Forza.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Mortal Kombat 1
    Mortal Kombat 1 meets its lofty expectations and continues to set the standard for fighting games. The invasion mode didn’t blow me away, but with seasonal updates it has the potential to become great.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    For the King
    For the King is undoubtedly one of the most distinct, intriguing, and fun RPG roguelikes in recent memory, and what’s more, the content value is through the roof. Despite the odd technical hiccup, the game succeeds in blending so many mechanics together without making a mess, and yet respectably manages to remain accessible and exciting throughout. If you’ve even a smidgen of interest in this game, you owe it to yourself to pick this up.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Assassin's Creed Valhalla
    There’s hours upon hours of entertainment here bolstered by satisfying combat and a story that will engage throughout, although the addictive nature of playing Valhalla often overwhelms the enjoyability – there are so many distractions and enhancements that make it a fully bolstered adventure that you’ll find yourself lost and entrenched in time and again. Valhalla swings for the fences and lands a satisfying and devastating blow that will certainly be felt by most players who experience it, just don’t go looking for a game-changer.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    F1 2018
    Despite some very minor issues, F1 2018 is the best of its kind, and certainly the best in the series so far. The high level of visual and audio detail, grouped with the care and attention to authenticity, collectively makes for an experience that’s robust, faithful and deep. Codemasters’ subtle yet noticeable changes over F1 2017 takes an already distinguished racer and makes it bigger and better than ever.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair
    Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair is very enjoyable and should appeal to many with its distinctly memorable characters and almost limitless customisation opportunities. It certainly has a high entertainment value bringing a more up to date and fresh approach to a genre that other developers have tried to revive with somewhat less success. The music is exciting flowing seamlessly through different areas and never becomes irritating. No part of play gets frustrating because of the ability to skip or customise levels and the depth of design in every character and their dialogue brings it all together so seemingly effortlessly. A confident thumbs up.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    SoulCalibur VI
    Soulcalibur VI offers a surprisingly deep game with some robust systems laying on its impressive foundation. Here, strategy and timing is equal to brute force, making for a fighter that’s tactical, fluid, and engrossing. The game’s two lore-heavy story modes, although convoluted, serve up a great deal of content on top of the game’s PvP sections, with no shortage of additional extras to unlock elsewhere.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Frostpunk: Console Edition
    While I may not be fit to rule the new world, I sure had a depressingly great time with Frostpunk. The difficulty will no doubt put people off – especially those going in blind – but persevere and there’s a deep, rewarding strategy title here that will get it’s hooks in, and drag you down with it.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
    Kunitsu-Gami continues the trend of gameplay excellence that has blessed all of Capcom’s recent releases. There are just some parts outside that feel like they should be more streamlined.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Nidhogg 2
    Nidhogg 2 doesn’t stray too far from the concept of its predecessor. This, depending on what you want from a sequel, will be for the better or for the worse. Regardless, there’s no doubt that this game offers one of the best and most tense 1v1 experiences in recent memory. What I found most compelling is how in-depth and robust the game can be, whilst remaining totally accessible and fluid throughout.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Tin Hearts
    Camera control aside, Tin Hearts has been an utter joy to play. It’s charming, clever, looks and sounds lovely, and has just the right puzzle difficulty to have us looking forward to coming back for an hour or so each night.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    F1 23
    With the new handling model, Braking Point 2 and F1 World, F1 2023 has the fresh coat of paint the series has needed for some time. For the first time in a while, I can see myself dusting my wheel off and racing rather than settling for just commentating.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    RIDE 5
    Without being so finicky though, RIDE 5 is a superb bike racer. It balances fantastic visuals and incredible bike detail with plenty of breakneck speeds and thrill-inducing racing moments and whilst it doesn’t change too much from the already successful formula that the series has become renowned for, this is certainly an enjoyable adventure for bike aficionados.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Two Point Hospital
    Two Point Hospital is a familiar yet refreshing take on the PC classic that will satisfy veterans and newcomers alike. With its Dad humour and simple but deep gameplay, the game will keep you trying to achieve those perfect star ratings for hours on end. If you’re missing the 90’s nostalgia of management sims such as Theme Hospital, Theme Park and Rollercoaster Tycoon this will certainly cure that longing for the glory days.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
    Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is one of the best metroidvania games of the gen, sitting in a league shared only by an elite few. Everything from its deep story and its diverse combat systems, right through to its remarkable gameplay variation and mechanical depth, is quite simply outstanding. Despite the occasional bug, this is as close to perfect as a game of this type can get, and one that’s certainly been worth the lengthy wait; this, is a must have.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Tails Of Iron
    Overall Tails of Iron is an enjoyable experience. Action-RPG fans will find a lot to like here. I know some people don’t like 2D games, but everything here works well, especially the beautiful art and the combat. Some of the side quests can feel like a drag, but the main questline will draw you in and keep you hooked.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
    Twelve-years is a very long time but Ghost Trick’s return to relevancy is a very welcome one indeed. The premise is as deliciously absurd as it is effective at drawing you into the game’s puzzle-heavy gameplay, the artstyle is immaculate and indubitably expressionistic, and although it’s rather short, it leaves a thunderous impact. Ghost Trick may no longer be ghosted by merely existing on a Nintendo handheld – now you can rejoice in playing it for yourselves and bask in the remastered experience of a well-loved and superbly-made classic.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Cat Quest III
    Cat’s Quest III is a worthy sequel. Fans of the previous game will have a blast and enjoy being back in the world of cat-puns.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Moonlighter
    Moonlighter is easily one of the best action RPGs of the year so far. Its mashup of shop management and dungeon crawling results in an experience that has magnificent pacing, interesting mechanics and fluid gameplay. This may sound like a cliche, but Moonlighter is the definition of easy to pick up and hard to put down. It helps that it’s so accessible, making it suitable for both genre fans and newcomers alike.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    FAR: Lone Sails
    Far: Lone Sails is a game that says a great deal without ever uttering a single word. Much like Dear Esther, it’s a journey that can be interpreted in many ways, and as such, your view of its gorgeously desperate world will constantly vary throughout. It’s a shame, however, that such a compelling canvas is slightly held back by its simplicity and its short length. Still, it’s a fascinating tale that deserves attention, just don’t expect too much from its gameplay.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Ravenswatch
    Ravenswatch is a superb. Complex, innovative, and just downright satisfying to play.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Assault Android Cactus
    AAC is a great game visually and playability wise, smooth and enjoyable but also filled with signs of frustration. If you’re a fan of these types of games you will have a ball, if you’re not then you may find a controller embedded in your T.V. set quicker than you think.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Hitman 2
    Hitman 2 is surgical – it’s a focused experience that knows what it wants to achieve and exactly how to do it, much like its protagonist. All six maps are wonderfully replayable, and in reshuffling older content, IO seems to be on the cusp of the “games as a service” wave in a way not attempted by other developers. More locations would have been welcome, and Hitman 2 feels like somewhat of a supplementary package to its episodic brother at times, but there is nothing else out there like it.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    WWE 2K25
    All in all, WWE 2K25 is pretty much all you’ll need for your pro wrestling fix in gaming. It has more modes and superstars than any one person can reasonably play with in a year, and while the Island is underwhelming, there is so much other good stuff it’s easy enough to overlook this. That it looks and plays better than ever in the ring is just icing on an already dense cake.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Jusant
    Jusant has utterly wowed me these past few evenings. The simple but effectively done climbing mechanic is supremely rewarding to use, giving us a great sense of accomplishment even though really it’s probably harder to fail than succeed. Combine this satisfying gameplay with a touching, well told tale and some stunning audio visual work, and you have a game that is all but essential playing in my eyes – Game Pass subscription or not.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Resident Evil 3
    Resident Evil 3 is another solid Capcom reinvention. There’s a wonderfully tense atmosphere punctuated with an action slant that means it’s never really as scary as it could be, but it still manages to get a good few moments in. Nemesis is initially terrifying, though his best moments come when it’s a one on one fight, the encounters in the world with him tend to be brief and easily overcome. Even at it’s worst though it’s still better than the majority of titles out so far this year and well worth a look.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Inertial Drift
    Inertial Drift is a fun arcade racer that brings a unique mechanic to drifting that works very well. While the tracks can be a little hard to read at times, after a few plays this becomes much less of an issue. There are plenty of cars to unlock and try, twenty tracks to learn and a decent story mode to help with learning the intricacies of the controls and modes. There are better overall arcade racers out there, but Inertial Drift definitely deserves a look if you fancy something a little different.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    MARVEL Cosmic Invasion
    MARVEL Cosmic Invasion is yet another fantastic brawler, with excellent combat complimented by the dual character switching and combos, some brilliant A/V work, and plenty of reason to play it through multiple times. Some difficulty spikes ruin the flow a little, but get some buddies in and you’re in for a real treat with MARVEL Cosmic Invasion.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Lair of the Clockwork God
    A joyful parody of platformers and graphic adventures that manages to keep hold of its love for them. It’s two games in one, and they’re both the funniest you’ll play this year.
    • 84 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Hell Let Loose
    Unfortunately, although Hell Let Loose has gone full release, this game is not ready. Using in-game chat is frequently buggy, with it being unclear who can hear who. Getting into the game proved to be very challenging pre-release, and a nightmare during the launch date, with frequent drops, long loading times, and regular crashes and hangs.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Chicken Police - Paint it RED!
    Chicken Police is a must pick up title if you are heavily invested into the crime/suspense genre as much as I am. Even though the game has a unique set of characters and settings doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t give it a shot. Well worth it in my opinion.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Stray
    For cat-lovers and Xbox lovers, Stray is a pleasant and uncanny feline-centred adventure game that’ll be purr-cisely what many will be looking for. The various cat behaviours are cool, the dark alleyways and neon evoke a particular kind of foreboding atmosphere, and there simply isn’t another game out there quite like Stray. However, Stray’s presentation is a mask for routine gameplay dynamics, and the overarching dreariness of the dystopia setting doesn’t mesh convincingly with the playful moments found dotted throughout. There’s a sense BlueTwelve Studio wanted a big-time mainstream experience condensed down to the length an indie title, and they’re successful in achieving that, it’s just the world they created could’ve been cheerier and less predictable. Thankfully though, this cat game never outStrays its welcome.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
    I can’t say that Sparking! Zero is the best Dragon Ball game ever made, as my track record is on the lower side, but it’s the best anime arena fighter I’ve played in a while. The bar has been set, and it’s incredibly high. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to train in the hypersonic lion tamer.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Still Wakes the Deep
    All in all, Still Wakes the Deep has been a fantastic horror experience. It looks and sounds great, the sense of tension and fear is very well handled, and even the few moments that drop the act don’t give us enough time to catch our breath before things go sideways again. Topped of with a touching story and well rounded characters, Still Wakes the Deep is not one to be missed.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Overcooked! 2
    The Onion Kingdom is bigger, better and more detailed than ever before. Overcooked! 2 takes its compelling concept to the next level through added mechanics, new additions and heaps of clever functionalities. The game’s difficulty may spike from time to time, but nevertheless, it goes without saying that Overcooked! 2 offers a robust co-op centric experience that rarely gets old, with online multiplayer to boot.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Kaze and the Wild Masks
    In conclusion Kaze and the Wild Masks was a game I was hyped for …. And it delivered. This can be compared to Donkey Kong Country 2 from back in the day. Platforming fans and gamers that take a shine to retro-styled games will like this. The easy mode makes it more accessible to those who might have more difficulty with platforming while not penalizing the player for choosing it. Kaze and the Wild Masks is quality 90’s gaming … today.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Rune Factory 4 Special
    Rune Factory 4 Special is a mammoth game with tons of content for those that are fans of the genre. It is hobbled by some strange High-definition upgrade choices.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Wreckfest
    Despite a few odd technical issues, Wreckfest is really rather fun to play. The sheer carnage on display as you smash and crash with your fellow racers is quite the sight, especially in the destruction derby style modes. Those looking for a racer with a little extra edge will no doubt find it here.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Forgotton Anne
    Forgotton Anne houses a gorgeously fitting art direction that’s not too dissimilar to Laputa: Castle in the Sky. This design sits extraordinarily well with its carefully crafted platforming and puzzle elements, collectively putting forward a wonderful adventure that never loses its grip. The dialogue may well be hit and miss at times, but the overarching plot is captivating, well paced and thoroughly entertaining.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Resident Evil Village
    Overall, there’s a lot to like about Resident Evil Village. The story and characters are great, most of the scenarios are fantastic fun to play, and when it hits best it rivals the top tier of the franchise. It’s a little too action heavy for my tastes, but even so that action is generally a lot of fun. Is it the best in the series? No. Is it still bloody good? One hundred percent. I’m cautiously excited to see where we go from here, and am already looking forward to a second playthrough.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    REANIMAL
    REANIMAL is a great step in the right direction for Tarsier’s portfolio, though with all the improvements there are still some problems with its execution.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Red Dead Redemption Featuring Undead Nightmare
    Red Dead Redemption is a bona-fide gaming classic that until now had missed the PC crowd baying for it to come to the platform. If you’ve yet to play it, this is simply the best way to play if you have even a passable PC or laptop, and puts a shine on a game that we can’t recommend enough.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage
    In VF5: R.E.V.O. the gameplay and content have never been better. This version feels like the complete package, even if visually it is starting to look long in the tooth.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
    All in all Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time is a stellar game and I have enjoyed and will continue to enjoy every minute of it. Despite being tough as nails at times, the brutal challenges are optional so newcomers or those with lesser skills can still enjoy the great storyline and main set of levels.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Insurgency: Sandstorm
    What you’ll find here isn’t the next game to join the contest of who can be the biggest FPS hit of the year, but rather a game that focuses on realism, action, and teamwork. It trades the big-budget effects for the nitty-gritty darkened warfare and it does this in a way that feels believable and enthralling, whilst managing to scratch that one-more-go itch as each round concludes, and for the efforts, it might just be the surprise big hitter of the year from the FPS genre after all.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
    All in all, this year’s Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 had a lot riding on its shoulders; big return after a poor showing last year, and the first big release straight into Game Pass. That it has come out this well in campaign and MP is no small feat, and no matter if you buy it or play on subscription, you’re almost guaranteed to have a good time. The campaign is the usual action blockbuster but shows promise for the future in its slower, more open-ended areas, and the MP is the best it’s been (in my casual eyes) for over a decade.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    DIRT 5
    DIRT 5 is superb and will quench the thirst of anybody who believes racing games have become too sim-heavy and boring. Some will lament the lack of true rallying and the ostentatious Americanised presentation but why complain when you can fully embrace the arcade richness on display here. Simply put, DIRT 5 is excellent and will leave you craving for more – now go out and there and drink it up.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    LEGO Voyagers
    Lego Voyagers is equal parts lovely to look at, simple yet engaging to play, and an all round good time for co-op players no matter their skill level.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    WWE 2K24
    While there are improvements that could be made, there’s no doubt this is an excellent way for fans of the graps to get even more enjoyment out of the sports entertainment lifestyle. There’s so much to do across so many modes, such a hefty creation suite that is all but limitless, and underneath all that a fun if sometimes frustrating gameplay system that will serve perfectly well until the next time out.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Baldur's Gate and Baldur's Gate II: Enhanced Editions
    I am glad these games are back, as there is a lot of joy to be had in these D&D based RPG’s which both newer and old RPG fans can enjoy. The controls designed for the Xbox controller make the game much quicker to steer and feel more fluid. The game flows a lot quicker than it did in the past too, without all the restrictive loading times associated with CD’s. If you are a big fan of in-depth story lines and interesting plot twists in your RPG’s, then this collection will be something you’ll love.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sumerian Six
    Like I mentioned this one was not on my radar, no pun intended, and I was pleasantly surprised. A few glitches with the enemies soured the experience a little but not enough for me to not recommend the game still. Even as someone who doesn’t gravitate to stealth games, this one was successful in integrating a system simple enough to pick up and swap between characters easily and make you feel satisfied clearing an area whether by yourself or through an automated, planned team effort. It has a thorough save system to boot which absolutely helped make the game more enjoyable with my trial and error. For sure, I recommend it as a really solid game.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    Starfield
    Starfield for me is very easily the game of the year, it would take something phenomenal to knock it off the top. Is it perfect? Not by any means, there are bugs and exploits to see but you have to go out of your way to do so, albeit to the detriment of your own experience. I think calling it Fallout in Space with Mass Effect tones and elements of No Man’s Sky is a cheap description. I think this is the massive space adventure we have needed and I am addicted to it and with so much content I feel very spoilt. It is so much fun and an RPG lovers fantasy to explore and I cannot recommend it enough.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    POPUCOM
    It’s been a while since I’ve had this much fun in a cooperative focused title and I think POPUCOM has found a great balance between difficulty and player choice without sticking around for more than it has to. Throw in a lovely presentation and you’ve got a fantastic cooperative puzzle-platformer that can be enjoyed by all.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Super Mega Baseball 3
    To the common eye Super Mega Baseball 3 looks like Arcade version of baseball, in the vein of NBA Jam‘s take on an arcade version of basketball. Beneath the mask is a well polished baseball simulation that I believe baseball fans will enjoy. Even if you aren’t a hardcore baseball fan this game still is something to play if you’re just trying to past the time.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Deadlink
    Roguelike fan or not, there’s a lot of fun to be had in Deadlink, with explosive action that encourages us to experiment with the full arsenal, and makes even our failed runs feel rewarding simply by being so damn joyous the play.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship
    Publisher Nacon and developer KT Racing have built a very solid Rally title with WRC 9, even though there aren’t many improvements over the last edition. It’s definitely a worthy investment for Rally fans, especially if you skipped last year’s WRC 8, though I’m not sure it’s worth upgrading straight away if you’re still plugging away at that title. At least not until a good sale comes along. While it does have some multiplayer modes, at the time of this writing I was unable to find any open lobbies. But to be fair most people probably prefer the career mode, because you really aren’t racing head to head anyway.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Natsuki Chronicles
    Natsuki Chronicles is one of the more enjoyable bullet-hell shooters I’ve played in quite some time. It nails the addictive nature of the classic arcade titles, and wraps it up in some gorgeous visuals and excellent level design. While these games are hard by nature, I did feel that Qute took it a tad too far here, with even the Easy setting proving to be rock solid. But those with time and patience on their hands will get no doubt have a great time here, and even if I suck at it, Natsuki Chronicles will be popping up on my playlist for sometime yet.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    Just Dance 2022
    Ultimately, you likely know what you’re in for with Just Dance 2022. There are a great range of new songs here, with some fun and challenging choreography and nice new visual styles that freshen things up somewhat. Add in Unlimited and you’ve potentially a game to last you a lifetime – if you’re willing to pay up. If you’ve not been won over up to now then this isn’t the game to change your mind, but fans of the series can expect yet another solid entry to enjoy until next year’s release.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II
    Space Marine II builds upon and improves on its predecessor in every way. Come for the big stompy Space Marines, stay for the intricate interplay between melee and ranged combat.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Ready or Not
    Altogether though, Ready Or Not is satisfying and has been created with attention to detail at its forefront — though its gameplay could’ve done with more excitement and variation.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A Plague Tale: Innocence
    A Plague Tale: Innocence is grim, dark, and constantly provocative, and yet, it effortlessly manages to remain emotionally radiant throughout. This isn’t just another survival game, it’s a tale that consistently and articulately interlaces beauty with brutality to excellent effect. Whilst the gameplay could have benefited from a bit more depth, the overall journey is mechanically well balanced, and to its credit, unlike anything else. This, is a must have.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Spyro Reignited Trilogy
    Following Crash’s epic comeback, Spyro’s Reignited Trilogy faithfully brings back the purple dragon’s first three games with an outstanding level of care and attention to detail. With some minor issues to the side, this trilogy is a treasure trove for any fan of classic platformers. There’s a vast amount of exciting content on offer here, content that will keep you entertained for hours on end, and then some.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Yoku's Island Express
    Yoku’s Island Express is an achievement in itself, effortlessly mashing up two polar-opposite genres that ultimately goes hand in glove to wonderful effect. This excellent foundation is upheld by its endearing, well developed and interwoven locations, bolstered further by a cast of lovable characters and a warming story. Minor frustrations regarding traversal to the side, this is a perfect example of meaningful innovation.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    FIFA 19
    FIFA’s vice-grip on the sports genre continues – FIFA 19 offers something for everyone. From the redesigned Kick Off mode to the Journey’s conclusion, there is a lot of game here. Legacy issues in career mode leave it short of being all it could be, however, which is inexcusable given how deep and rewarding games such as the NBA 2K series have made their career modes. That said, this is as good as FIFA has ever been.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Owlboy
    Owlboy sets a new standard. It’s a gorgeously crafted adventure that’s jam packed with detail, endearing characters and a memorable heart warming story. Rarely do we see platformers donning such care and attention to detail, further upheld by fluid well rounded gameplay that doesn’t let go once it captivates you. Owlboy is a must have.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Warhammer: Vermintide 2
    A step up from its already impressive predecessor. Despite the occasional bug throughout play, the game offers up a refined experience that never wavers its pace nor its excitement. This is everything that a sequel should be, which is to say that it takes what worked in the first game and makes slight, yet notable improvements to maintain its distinct allure. Vermintide 2 is a must have.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Steve Jackson's Sorcery!
    Overall players can get a lot of playtime and enjoyment out of this collection, but the fact that the game lacks a typical multislot save system really hurts the product. If you like RPG games and want to try something different or have played gamebooks like the ones this is based on, then Steve Jackson’s Sorcery! is worth a try.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition
    Worms Armageddon Anniversary Edition was already packed with enough game to last forever, but the recent update adding even more wormage to the deal is too hard a deal to pass up. An excellent game packaged in a loving way by Digital Eclipse as only they can.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    SOMA
    SOMA isn’t an excellent example of horror, but instead shines its brightest through its story telling. That’s not to say that it isn’t scary, on the contrary it’s very unnerving and full of unsettling sights and choices, it’s just not up to scratch when those aspects try to go hand in hand.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    Supraland
    Supraland has come out of nowhere and absolutely blown me away. Taking inspiration from some of the best games ever, it manages to somehow blend them all together into a cohesive whole, constantly surprising and delighting us in equal measure. Combat is a bit weak, and the solutions can at time be a bit too obtuse, but these are small blemishes on what is otherwise an incredibly fun adventure that is funny, rewarding and something that’ll keep us coming back for sometime yet. That it also launched on Gamepass means that it’ll hopefully gain the love and success it clearly deserves.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Streets of Rage 4
    Whether you’re a fan of the originals or not, Streets of Rage 4 is a blast from start to finish. Satisfying combat, incredible music and visuals and tons to unlock mean this should be sticking around on your hard drive for some time yet. A lack of 4 player online is a disappointment, but otherwise what’s here more than makes up for the long wait.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Darkestville Castle
    Darkestville Castle is everything you want from a point and click puzzler. A simple but interesting story line, decent voice acting, and tricky but fun puzzles. The game can be completed in under 10 hours give or take – about standard for a point and click adventure game as you only really play them once, so you don’t want them so long that you lose interest. For those who enjoy point and click adventures, this is definitely a fun one to pick up.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    F1 25
    I’m encouraged by the work that has gone in to improve and launch My Team 2.0, but I can’t help but feel short-changed with too many customized options being locked behind a paywall. That being said, I can see myself putting a lot more hours into F1 25, exploring the different outcomes in Braking Point 3 and delving into a long-term save in My Team.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    MOUSE: P.I. For Hire
    There’s a lot to like about Mouse P.I., from it’s excellent visuals and animation to the simple act of exploring and shooting. Cuphead is a clear inspiration in certain aspects, and though this is a different genre, it will likely still appeal if you enjoyed that game. It is a great game for console and handheld should you have one as well.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Shadow of the Tomb Raider
    Shadow of the Tomb Raider offers an epic journey that’s jam-packed with heaps of fan service. There’s more depth and gameplay diversity here than in any game before it, spanning a lush, rich and deep world that’s crammed with activities, secrets, and an impressive variation of deadly tombs. Despite some minor issues with the otherwise solid story, this is Lara’s most defining adventure yet.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition
    The long and the short of it though is that Beyond Good & Evil is still a bloody fantastic game, from its setting to characters, story, gameplay mechanics, and everything else. It’s showing its age in some quality of life aspects, but there’s nothing here that should prove too tricky for anyone to get over. It has become the best way to play BG&E, and we can only hope it spurs on any news at all of what comes next.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    SUPERHOT: MIND CONTROL DELETE
    It’s fair to say this is true of the whole experience. Whilst MIND CONTROL DELETE is not quite as brilliantly unique as its predecessor due to the nature of sequels, it is a very thoughtful addition to the series. Its narrative is intriguing and its balancing systems work well. Whilst the repetition of levels can occasionally become grating, the end result is polished, interesting and a great value.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection
    Ghosts ‘n Goblins Resurrection is a love letter, or rather a love ballad to the original series, and fans of that series will know every word. I think most of them will enjoy this resurrection immensely. I was on the fence about recommending it to newer fans, but after completing the game on Squire I realized that I enjoyed the game a fair bit. The only caveat is the current price of $30 US which seems a little high. The watercolor art style is striking and the soundtrack is familiar and catchy. Although there are some moments of frustration, Capcom has created a game that any platformer fan should enjoy whether they are a fan of the series or a fan in the making, but the old school fans will get much more enjoyment from it.
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