Let’s wrap it up with Jack: It should have been an ordinary evening; I hadn’t planned on spending so much time in Mouseburg. There’s a special, unique atmosphere there, sometimes gloomy or, on the contrary, blinding, as if someone had forgotten to switch off the spotlights. I’d been tipped off by the Herald’s pen-pusher, to whom I’d occasionally pass on some information. This ‘minor’ disappearance case should never have taken me this far. I just had to fill in a few gaps to solve the case. I never imagined I’d be criss-crossing the city for this. I stumbled upon some colourful characters: the sinister face of the politician Cornelius Stilton, the pretty doll—too pretty to be honest—Miss McCarthy, and a whole string of blokes who would have made a viper’s nest look like a summer camp. And then there was the gunpowder. Far too much gunpowder. It's as if Mouseburg had decided to set off a personal fireworks display for me. All things considered, I came out of it without a scratch – either a feat of skill or just plain luck. Either way, case closed.

Pragmata is one of those games which, despite their flaws, pushes you to cross the finish line no matter what. It offers something different, with a distinct identity and a gameplay approach that clearly stands out. Not everything is perfectly polished; some mechanics lack variety, a few sections can seem confusing, and the whole experience would have benefited from a bit more polishing. But these limitations don’t stop the game from working. On the contrary, everything feels streamlined and coherent. The partnership between Hugh and Diana, the atmosphere, the blend of action and strategy… all of this creates an experience that hooks you and makes you want to come back for seconds. You progress with curiosity, sometimes with a few hiccups, but always with a desire to see what else the game cooks. That is undoubtedly the key point: Pragmata may not be flawless, but it succeeds in offering a unique adventure that is clearly worth your precious time.

It’s so nostalgic to be reunited with our two friends, Max and Chloe, for an emotionally charged epilogue. Although not without its flaws, the story kept us on the edge of our seats as we waited to discover the final outcome, which focused mainly on saving the campus. It’s a shame there weren’t more key moments between the two soulmates, long separated by fate. Finally, despite a few texture glitches that break the immersion, Life Is Strange: Reunion delivers a satisfying conclusion and skilfully brings this timeless trilogy to a close.

It’s hard not to be left with a lasting impression of Crimson Desert. The game impresses with its generosity, the sheer scale of its world, and its constant commitment to delivering a comprehensive, rich and varied adventure. Throughout the experience, there are genuine moments of discovery, moments when exploration takes centre stage and you simply let yourself be carried away by what the game has to offer. But, at the same time, this boundless ambition ultimately becomes its main weakness. In its quest to introduce a multitude of systems, ideas and approaches, the game sometimes loses coherence and clarity. The narrative struggles to take hold, certain mechanics lack clarity, and the whole thing regularly gives the impression of lacking structure. This does not, however, prevent the game from remaining captivating over time. Quite the contrary, it is one of those experiences where you keep coming back for seconds despite its flaws, drawn in by its world and its potential. But it also leaves a sense of incompleteness, as if some of its good ideas had never been fully realised. Ultimately, we are left with an imperfect, sometimes disjointed work, yet one that is ambitious and memorable enough to leave mark on us. A game that doesn’t get everything right… but which attempts a great deal.

Whilst Bravely Default plays the nostalgia card, it is no less (and just as) demanding. Those completely unfamiliar with this spin-off franchise from Square will be surprised by its mechanics, but will discover a game with enormous potential. Be warned, however: the game is long, its characters are rather conventional, and it occasionally suffers from an uneven pace. Nevertheless, it remains an essential classic for fans of the genre, and one we thoroughly enjoyed revisiting.

Setting aside its visual style—which you’ll either love or hate—Bungie completes its Marathon after a long period of development. The end result is a solid title, though its formula is imperfect and it hasn’t yet managed to strike that subtle balance that allows for moments of pure brilliance to occur regularly. Marathon does offer a few memorable moments, but struggles to maintain a constant sense of tension or that sense of chaos inherent in unexpected encounters—the very essence extraction-shooters. So it’s by no means a bad apple, far from it, but the game will need some rebalancing, in both its PvP and PvE encounters. Aside from taming frustration, the addition of extra content to breathe life into such a promising universe really needs to happen fast. Bungie is, in any case, very attentive to feedback and is rolling out a series of announcements to retain and/or boost engagement: a two-player mode, an additional map, a ranked mode… Let's keep the pace with them.

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly successfully manages to modernise a classic without betraying its essence. The game is elevated by meticulous art direction, chilling sound design, optimised controls and a more immersive presentation, all of which emphasize the emotional and horrifying intensity of Mio and Mayu’s journey. Nevertheless, the game remains haunted by its old demons, with a persistent stiffness and sluggishness, battles that sometimes drag on and a camera work that can be a bit unpredictable. Despite these flaws, this remake offers an experience with a unique atmosphere, both melancholic and spellbinding. However, as respectful as it is of its heritage, you can still feel that many years have passed since the inception of it. For long-time fans, it’s a wonderful rediscovery. For newcomers, it’s an introduction to one of the most distinctive survival horror games, provided you can accept a certain rigidity inherited from its era. All in all, it's an imperfect but undeniably captivating horror journey that will delight thrill-seekers despite its flaws.

Toxic Commando delivers an effective cooperative stress-reliever, driven by an unapologetic B-movie vibe, spectacular hordes, complementary classes and vehicles that make for memorable road trip sequences. That said, a flimsy narrative, repetitive objectives, slow progression and shaky technical performance (particularly on Xbox Series X with dynamic resolution) limit its longevity and impact. When played as a team, the game hits its stride and offers genuinely exhilarating moments of chaos, but it reveals its shortcomings over time in single-player. If you’re looking for a cooperative shooter that’s immediately accessible and packed with enemies to blast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy, provided you can accept a fairly repetitive gameplay loop and uneven visual quality on Xbox.

GreedFall: The Dying World is an ambitious RPG that pulls off a daring narrative gamble: reversing the perspective to offer a first-hand experience of displacement and colonial domination. This choice lends the game an undeniable intensity and uniqueness. The writing is solid, the themes are relevant, and the character progression offers welcome freedom. However, the fragmented structure of the quests, the excessive back-and-forth, and the labyrinthine level design regularly slow the narrative momentum. Technical issues on Xbox, notably stuttering and overly noticeable dynamic resolution, further accentuate this sense of incompleteness. GreedFall remains a brave and rich work with strong intentions. But its uneven execution still prevents it from fully achieving the scale that its narrative ambition foreshadowed.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is both a refreshing new instalment in the series for fans, and the most comprehensive introduction to the universe for newcomers. While the latter may find it a little difficult to grasp certain subtleties in the storyline (such as the difference between riders and rangers, which is very poorly explained here) and may not feel the same joy at the return of certain familiar characters from the saga, they will nonetheless have the most accomplished, complete and varied version of the Stories games. Among monster hunting and capture titles, MHS has clearly managed to stand out from the big names to build its own identity, which is an excellent thing.

Neva Prologue offers enjoyable additional content that manages to rekindle the emotion and prolong the magic for a lovely moment suspended in time. It features the beauty, melancholy, poetry and intensity of a touching encounter in watercolour-style settings, which is what Neva is recognized for. The whole thing is sublimated by a soundtrack that is as magnificent as ever, but the challenges here are more demanding. However, the lack of gameplay evolution and, above all, the short lifespan leave us with a feeling of missing out, similarly to a book ending abruptly. It's certainly a decent prologue for a few quid, but this adventure is too short and deserved to be fleshed out more to leave a lasting impression: what a shame.

With Resident Evil Requiem, Capcom makes a sensational comeback! Players are drawn in by the sumptuous art direction, a chilling horror universe that stays true to its roots, and a perfectly mastered duality of gameplay and storytelling. The storyline keeps you on the edge of your seat with new mysteries, the photorealistic graphics are striking, and the monstrously effective sound design plunges you into an intense, fast-paced nightmare. Some interesting new features such as the blood collector and the various mutations, breathe new life into a saga that refuses to die, much to our delight! Without being revolutionary, and even if everything isn't perfect (some camera movements can be a bit erratic at times), Requiem is one of the most accomplished episodes: epic, spectacular, modern, respectful of its origins and resolutely forward-looking. We recommend it without hesitation!

With Reanimal, Tarsier Studios has created an experience that builds on the formula that made Little Nightmares I and II such a success: immersive art direction, fragmented storytelling, and a chilling atmosphere in an imaginary world that is as gloomy and creepy as ever. But the studio goes beyond just replicating thanks to a gameplay that is more varied and fluid. What's more, the cooperative mode adds a dynamic element that heightens the emotion and mutual support. With its polished production, improved graphics and animations, and remarkable sound design, Reanimal is faster-paced, more intense and more beastly than ever. Newcomers will discover a horror tale that is as oppressive as it is confusing, while regulars will find familiar mechanics enhanced by a more assertive ambition. Reanimal is not just the legacy of Little Nightmares: it is a true transformation, an evolution that opens the way to new perspectives for the franchise. And suffice to say that we will be following this transformation with interest.

Code Vein 2 perfectly embodies the idea of a missed opportunity. The game is full of good ideas: a rich universe, a strong narrative concept, a flexible progression system and pleasant anime-style art direction. However, in its quest to make the experience more accessible, its very essence is being diluted. The overly low difficulty, overpowered companions, excessive recycling, and technical issues prevent the title from reaching the minimum standard at times. The result is an experience that is sometimes enjoyable, but often frustrating and rarely memorable. Code Vein 2 remains a solid game at its core, but it lacks the rigour, tension, and boldness necessary to make a lasting impression in the landscape of recently released souls-like games.

Like its story, Dragon Quest brings together past and present in a high-quality remake. The work still bears the marks of its age, whether in its narrative structure that still paces itself, its resolutely classic combat system, or certain exploration options that may startle players. In its desire to be accessible at all costs, the game perhaps loses some of its consistency with its original premise. However, while this seventh instalment may not really surprise, it remains a great JRPG that respects the codes of the genre. The work done by Square Enix to bring it up to date is obvious and clearly deserves to be praised.

Final Fantasy VII Remake remains a deeply ambitious work, torn between homage and reinvention. It shines in its combat system, artistic direction and character development, but stumbles in its pacing, narrative filler and technical choices that are now showing their age. In this Xbox Series X version, the game is neither a failure nor outdated, but it is clearly not aligned with 2026's standards. If you've already completed the game on PlayStation or PC, there's no real reason to start the adventure again on Xbox. However, for those discovering this Remake, FF7 remains a must-play, even in 2026.

Embarking on an adventure with MIO is a journey into the unknown. The latter has been enhanced by unique artistic direction, offering a proper feast for the eyes and ears. Exploration is engaging and natural, gameplay is fluid and airy, and battles are very intense. Be warned, however, that the experience can also be abrupt and frustrating at times. The ingredients used are all familiar, but even though the formula is classic and simple, Douze Dixièmes has nevertheless gifted us with a high-quality Metroidvania game for its second release.

With Silent Hill 2 Remake, Bloober Team has succeeded in breathing new life into a survival horror classic, while preserving the essence that traumatised generations of players. Driven by a suffocating atmosphere, captivating storytelling and a vulnerable but deeply human James, the title has been revived thanks to the studio, which has created an immersive, poignant and gut-wrenching work. The updated gameplay, meticulous art direction and chillingly effective sound design reinforce this dive into the depths of the human psyche. It's a feat that makes us want to stay in the fog, especially with the remake of the very first episode already in the works. Fear has never been so intense... or so irresistible!

We enjoyed discovering each game mode in Call of Duty Black Ops 7. Thanks to its fun campaign one can play with others and that acts as a real stress reliever with crazy, well-designed bosses (or more like missions interspersed with cutscenes), Activision is taking the risk of disappointing some players looking for a solo experience. The multiplayer mode remains very classic in terms of what we expect from a Call of Duty game, and the omni-movement, introduced in Black Ops 6, comes into its own with its dynamic and rather successful maps. The Zombie mode will appeal to fans of the genre with its content, which is traditional but eagerly awaited. Finally, the return of Dead Ops adds a welcome touch of nostalgia to the title.

Satisfactory remains one of the most captivating industrial management games on the market: a powerhouse for logical thinking, taking on challenges and a captivating building experience. Its transition to console confirms this mastery. Far from being yet another adaptation, it cleverly rethinks its controls, ensures clear navigation and preserves the pleasure of building colossal complexes without frustration. Behind the apparent coldness of its industrial theme, the game reveals an addictive rhythm where every improvement, every optimisation and every expansion tells a story of tangible progress. Admittedly, certain repetitive tasks and the manual management of connections remind us that efficiency is often earned through hard work. But when, after dozens of hours, you see your factory stretching as far as the eye can see, Satisfactory is quite a sight to behold: a world where every cog falls into place neatly. It is a solid, masterful and ever-fascinating achievement.

Syberia Remastered elegantly reconciles the past and the present, successfully preserving the soul of a classic while making it accessible. The graphical overhaul, improved interface, free movement and ever-captivating art direction provide a beautiful, melancholic escape into the world of Benoît Sokal, where emotion triumphs over technique. Despite a few hiccups and the lack of reworking of the original cutscenes, the essentials are there: a timeless adventure faithful to the original work, which will appeal to both the nostalgic and the curious.

Ninja Gaiden has nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to its legacy. Thanks to its gameplay and technique, the blade in this episode is as sharp as it is fine, and the school of skill is on a roll. Quite simply, it's been a long time since we've had so much fun with a title of this genre. However, the overall presentation is far from the most stylish. In terms of its structure and ambition, it is not as spectacular as expected and does not deliver the slash we were hoping for. What remains nonetheless is the pleasure of quite a virtuous game.

Can't wait for Hades 2? Your buddy tells you it's this year's GOTY ? You could retort that Sworn can be played with others... We may have complained about this ‘failed’ Hades clone, but Sworn does have its good points: a universe with potential, effective gameplay even if there are no real surprises, a multiplayer component (at least online) and, needless to say, it's included in Game Pass.

Arc Raiders succeeds in a daring gamble: breathing a human fiber in the extraction shooter genre. Where most games of this genre cultivate mistrust, Embark Studios goes the other way with cooperation and joy. Backed by sumptuous art direction, exemplary sound design and precise gameplay, the title offers moments of unexpected grace. Admittedly, the clunky interface and a few bugs slightly tarnish the overall picture. But what stands out most is that, in a genre that is often brutal and punishing, Arc Raiders exudes life and camaraderie. Each mission becomes a memory and each encounter a calculated risk. It indeed encompasses everything an extraction-shooter entails, but it remains first and foremost a rare experience of humanity.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is a paradoxical work, captivating in its atmosphere and rich in lore, but faltering in its execution. Its story is compelling, its narrative choices intriguing, and its gloomy universe fascinating, yet it frustrates the player with its technical shortcomings and dated gameplay. Seattle struggles to come alive, while the AI sorely lacks bite, leaving a mixed impression overall. This is a title to be savoured like an old wine: with patience and indulgence, reserved for fans of the genre who are able to appreciate its aromas despite its bitter notes. Others will no doubt prefer to wait for it to settle... or for the price to drop, which is what we recommend.

Keeper offers an appealing concept, a truly unique, beautiful and varied universe, in which we recognise the famous ‘touch’ of the Double Fine studio, but it sometimes runs out of steam over the course of its – albeit short – lifespan. The game can be appreciated as a beautiful work of art, an original experience that allows you to enjoy a dreamlike adventure for an afternoon. It's worth discovering, if only to escape for a while.

The Outer Worlds 2 is not an untouchable masterpiece, but it is an excellent RPG that successfully combines narrative depth, gameplay freedom and biting humour. Its flaws – a slow start, a limited variety of enemies, a few bugs – are offset by its strengths: captivating side quests, a bold skill and penalty system, unforgettable companions and spot-on social satire. Ultimately, The Outer Worlds 2 is a game that deserves to be discovered and, above all, replayed, because it is in its multiple possibilities, different endings and surprising mechanics that it reveals the full scope of its treasures. An old-school RPG, but one that has evolved to offer a modern, challenging and deeply satisfying experience.

Simon the Sorcerer Origins successfully revives the spirit of a cult point-and-click franchise, while giving it a fresh twist. Its charm comes from its polished art direction, quintessentially British humour, 90s vibe and modernised gameplay that respects the conventions of the genre. But behind this magical world, not everything is perfect. The pace is uneven, and the lack of a help system for the most complex puzzles may slow down some players. Whether you're a veteran of the genre or a long-time fan, you'll enjoy reuniting with Simon in this quirky adventure, as long as you accept his slapstick humour and minor flaws, because, ultimately, that's also part of Simon's magic: a touch of chaos, a lot of sarcasm, and a healthy dose of imagination!

Bounty Star offered us an experience based on mecha combat and life management, an original idea, but unfortunately not quite polished enough. Its gameplay loop becomes far too repetitive and simplistic in terms of base building management. However, the battles with the raptor (when they are not buggy), its customisation, the touching story and Clémentine's redemption-based evolution are really enjoyable to follow throughout the chapters, despite a few bugs and a sometimes mixed experience.

Little Nightmares III follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, without really taking any risks. While the introduction of online co-op brings a new dynamic, it's not enough to compensate a formula that struggles to reinvent itself. The lack of innovation, repetitive mechanics and overly directive AI in solo mode detract from the experience, especially for regular players. The atmosphere remains effective, the puzzles are well crafted and the universe, as disturbing as ever, may captivate newcomers, but veterans of the saga may feel a certain weariness. An honest sequel, certainly, but one that lacks the spark that made players shiver with excitement on day one.

Even though we have highlighted the frustrations we experienced with the controller in hand, it must be said that Inayah is a game that deserves more visibility. Admittedly, it's far from perfect, but when you consider its indie status and the wealth of ideas it proposes, you can't help but be pleasantly surprised. If you can get past its slightly rough first impression and a few missteps, Inayah clearly has a lot on its for plate for anyone in search of a Metroidvania game.

Should we applaud Konami's work? Is the mission a success? Or does it leave a bitter taste? We can debate what this Metal Gear should have been and quibble over the terms “remaster” and “remake”, but this Delta version of Snake Eater remains faithful to its original vision, respectful of its source material, and is currently the best version for experiencing or re-experiencing Snake's adventures. Although we were initially cautious about this facelift, the fact remains that the formula works once again. Nostalgic gamers (like us) will undoubtedly be the most delighted to see Snake again, while lamenting what the game could have been. You can't change who you are... Even if this version doesn't change the way remakes are done, it has still managed to strike a chord in our hearts. A must-have for fans of the franchise and an adventure to be discovered by others.

Silent Hill F fascinates with its narrative ambitions and its floral and morbid aesthetic. It offers a poetic and introspective reinterpretation of the saga, supported by remarkable art direction and sound design. However, its rigid gameplay, frustrating mechanics, the complexity of certain puzzles, the clunky camera and the lack of diversity in the creatures and settings prevent it from truly winning us over. Despite a more action-oriented focus and perhaps overly high expectations on our part, Silent Hill F never managed to provide us with as much emotional intensity as the remake of Silent Hill 2. This new episode, promising on paper, turned out to be a bittersweet disappointment. A strange and beautiful flower... but one that failed to fully blossom.

With Time Stranger, the Digimon franchise makes a comeback with a solid game that is accessible without being simplistic and incredibly addictive. Get ready to spend time working on the stats of your favourite creatures to make them digivolve into ever more powerful and original forms, through an interesting story that is more mature than what we are used to from the franchise. A real treat for aficionados and newcomers alike.

We were pleasantly surprised by Sonic Racing Crossworld. We were expecting yet another Mario Kart-like game, but that's not the case at all. Although it uses the same formula, the game brings a certain originality thanks to its varied and entertaining game modes. The Crossworld system brings a freshness to the game with some breathtaking tracks; it's a real success. Whether playing solo or multiplayer, the customisation, accessible content and multi-platform support mean that everyone can have fun. However, we did find it a bit repetitive after a few hours and some parts of the races were a bit messy.

Dying Light: The Beast succeeds where Stay Human fell short, reconnecting with the horrific, visceral and nerve-wracking essence of the franchise. The return of iconic hero Kyle Crane, his monstrous transformation, steroid-fuelled parkour and the sublime setting of Castor Woods provide a brutal, intense and deliciously wild immersive experience. The gameplay gains depth thanks to the well-exploited man-beast duality, and the day/night cycle is even more unforgiving. Not everything is perfect: the storyline remains mundane, exploration is more restricted (but more intense), some recycled mechanics struggle to surprise, and the AI still has a few glitches (sometimes more frightening than the undead themselves). But no matter, The Beast, like a hungry offspring, becomes the wild child of the trilogy, howling its return to its roots with rage and darkness. If you liked the first Dying Light, you'll love The Beast!

Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree is a roguelite aiming to expand the genre with a more narrative and emotional approach. The idea of a hero/companion duo, the gradual sacrifice of allies, and the generational dimension of the village are a real breath of fresh air. All of this is sublimated by a meticulous art direction and a high-quality soundtrack. But behind this attractive façade, the execution remains fragile: the writing drags on and dilutes the emotional impact, the combat becomes bogged down in repetition and imbalance, and the interface and progression systems do more to detract from the game than improve it. The overall impression is of a generous and honest to goodness game, but one that is unable to transform its good ideas into a coherent and captivating whole over time.

Ivalice Chronicles will undoubtedly delight its long-time fans by offering them a redesigned, enhanced and clearly improved version of the 1997 game. On the other hand, new players will likely be frustrated by the game's overall sluggishness, whose gameplay, although rich, does not compare to tactical games such as Fire Emblem or Valkyria Chronicles, which are much more fluid and fast-paced. We therefore advise those less patient to try it in easy mode in order to enjoy the storyline.

Battlefield 6 marks a turning point for the EA and DICE saga. After a controversial 2042 instalment, it manages to restore fan confidence thanks to a more coherent direction, a return to the classic formula and a solid single-player campaign that finally enriches the universe. While the storyline remains conventional and some mechanics could still be improved, the staging, the richness of the environments, and the attention to detail in the combat experience restore Battlefield to its place among the greats of modern FPS games. Its multiplayer mode recaptures the strategic and cooperative essence of the series, while modernising its foundations, and its more physical and immersive gameplay reinforces the impact of each confrontation. Despite a few imbalances, some room for improvement in the initial content, and maps that are sometimes too large, Battlefield 6 stands out for its technical mastery and its desire to offer a complete, spectacular and unifying experience. It doesn't revolutionise the genre, but it elevates it with conviction and skill.

Karma: The Dark World is nothing like a traditional horror game. It provides a strange, almost visceral sensation, like an introspective dive into the darkest and most tortured corners of the human soul. Disturbing, troubling and deeply Lynchian in its staging, Karma blurs the lines and sows the seeds of doubt. Sometimes confusing, but always intriguing, it dares to make a bold statement that breaks free from the conventions of the genre. However, we regret that screen tearing and FPS instability detract from the immersion because it hinders the title's overall quality. But for a first instalment, Pollard Studio LLC shows remarkable ambition, driven by a desire to shake up the conventions. If you are fond of multilayered narratives, tortured universes and experiences that require interpretation rather than rational understanding, Karma: The Dark World may well surprise you. All in all, it is a radical proposition... take it or leave it.

Triangle Strategy excels in the two key aspects of its genre: story and tactics. While the combat system does not allow for unlimited customisation of units, it does not fall into the trap of trying to reinvent the wheel at all costs. The mechanics are classic and solid, making for a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Aside from its combat system, it is the story that makes it worthwhile. You can have a real impact on the latter with different paths and, above all, it does not treat players like idiots. Add to that a sublime setting (if you are not allergic to HD-2D): Triangle Strategy has earned its place among the great J-RPGs.

Viewfinder is clever, there is no denying it. Its rudimentary premise is surprising and leaves room for imagination, where we believe that anything is possible. What remains is an experience halfway between narration/contemplation and the challenges on offer, which, in our opinion, is due to the decision to target the widest possible audience. Let us be clear, the title is a (very) good choice, that is for sure, but it is not a cult classic.

Spending these few hours in the shoes of the famous Hercule Poirot and young detective Jane Royce allowed us to experience an adventure full of twists and turns thanks to well-written investigations that take on their full meaning as the story unfolds, the mind map and the well-thought-out puzzles (far more numerous than in Agatha Christie - Murder on the Orient Express). Finally, thanks to a gameplay that encourages players to think and interact, there is no doubt that Agatha Christie - Death on the Nile comes out on top. As fans of the "whodunnit" genre, we really enjoyed discovering all the different aspects of this title. Fans of crime novels or video games similar to Frogwares' Sherlock Holmes series will enjoy discovering (or rediscovering) this new iteration of one of Agatha Christie's most famous works.

Borderlands 4 builds on the foundations that made the franchise so successful in the first place, while seeking to broaden its horizons. With a darker narrative approach and more ambitious staging, it attempts to fuse its fidelity to the saga's essence with modernised gameplay. The pace of the quests, exploration and activities on this new planet, as well as the character development, add real richness, but some mechanics remain rigid and the repetitiveness inherent to the genre is still present. Oscillating between artistic ambition and a few technical limitations, the title stands out as a solid instalment, without revolutionising the formula.

Uncompromising, Cronos: The New Dawn stands out as a demanding survival horror game aimed at purists. The beauty of its retro-futuristic universe, its gloomy and chilling atmosphere all wrapped up in a compelling narrative that unfolds across multiple timelines are quite captivating. Its clever mechanics, such as time paradoxes, corpse fusion, and rigorous resource management inject constant and oppressive tension that act as a nice homage to Dead Space. Despite its sometimes frustrating rigidity and demanding combat, the title offers a dark and intense immersive experience that will delight fans of the genre.

Gloomy Eyes is a gem that shines bright throughout the darkness: an interactive tale that draws us into a universe that is both dark and captivating, worthy of Burton's most beautiful daydreams. Visually exquisite, the game weaves a unique story between a melancholic young zombie and a lively human girl, perfectly embodying the intricate duality between dark & light. The tasteful artistic direction sublimates this duality with an aesthetic that captivates us from the very first moments, to the point where one struggles to put down the controller! The puzzles, scattered throughout the game, add rhythm and depth to the adventure. And even if a few minor bugs sometimes disrupt the experience, they in no way detract us from the charm of this poignant and poetic work, which will blow you away! A rare, strange and captivating thrill that should not be overlooked.

As it did with Street of Rage 4, Lizardcube studio offers us a true revival of the Shinobi franchise, which both returns to the roots of what made it successful in the first place and provides a fresh coat of paint for modern players. Like its predecessor, Art of Vengeance will undoubtedly give rise to a generation of fans of the perfect run! The game is so compelling when you pick up the controller that one tends to easily forgive its minor flaws. The return of Joe Musashi is clearly a success.

Without revolutionising the genre or making any grand technical claims, Goosebumps: Terror in Little Creek stands out as a faithful and honest adaptation of R.L. Stine's universe. Designed above all as a family experience, it charms with its retro horror atmosphere, well-integrated puzzles and multiple references to the Goosebumps saga. The balance between adventure and mild thrills works wonderfully, carried by a colourful, polished and charming art direction. While not particularly memorable, it is nonetheless a pleasant escape for young players or adults in search of a hint of nostalgia. Despite a few minor issues such as collision bugs and occasionally stiff animations, the experience remains enjoyable and we definitely recommend it once the price goes down a bit (it is quite short).

Being way over the top impedes Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion from being excellent. That, and its particularly confusing storyline. Those looking for a game that is quick to pick up will be put off by its complexity, but if you have some time on your hands, the title will prove particularly enjoyable once you have worked out its kinks. And if you like mechas and are looking for a fun co-op game, this adventure is for you. It will be complex, imperfect, and sometimes a little frustrating, but also particularly satisfying.

Hell is Us stands out as an unusual experience, a deliberate return to the roots of old-school games where deep thinking and intuitive exploration take precedence over modern hand-holding. In this supernatural and gloomy universe, the subtle and disturbing soundscape plays a key role in immersion, while addressing universal themes of the human condition. But this boldness has a downside. By trying too hard to play on complexity and the absence of reference points, the game risks losing its players in its twists and turns. The constant back-and-forth, limited bestiary, predictable combat and uninspired AI make the player's interest run out of steam, especially for those who do not have a keen visual memory or endless patience. Hell is Us fascinates as much as it divides. It is a demanding, sometimes frustrating work that will only appeal to the most daring and tenacious players.

Swiss studio Okomotive once again demonstrates its talent for narrative experiences focused on nature and introspection. However, far from being just a mere contemplative adventure, Herdling offers clever puzzles and sequences that are every now and then intense. If the goal of video games is also to take us on a journey without leaving the comfort of our sofa, this title succeeds with flying colours.

Lost Twins 2 won us over with its charming universe, polished art direction, clever puzzle mechanics and simple but effective gameplay. It offers an experience that is relaxing, entertaining, and at times stimulating, especially in local co-op. Despite a few slowdowns, slightly long loading times that occasionally hinder the pace, and ball physics that are a little too sensitive, which can be frustrating in certain sequences, these minor flaws do not spoil the overall enjoyment. All in all, Lost Twins 2 is a pleasant surprise, accessible and well thought out, which will delight fans of puzzles and poetic worlds.

Mafia: The Old Country could be accused of being a game that plays it safe, due to its lack of risk taking and its well-worn theme. However, we can forgive this new instalment for its classicism and a hero with the charisma of lawn clippings as an authentic charm exudes from it; a true love letter from its developers to the iconic gangster story genre. Ultimately, for less than 50 €, it offers a good time, and isn’t that all we could ask for?

It is hard to ignore the technical issues encountered, particularly the jerkiness and slowdowns in exploration mode. This gives the impression that the developers bit off more than they could chew and overdid it. Perhaps they should have put aside the exploration aspect and focused all their energy on the story mode? Unlike its heroes, their good intentions were not enough to win us over, but it would be a lie to say that we did not enjoy the faithfully recreated story or the fan service that is very much present. Never mind, a shot of Ether Gear and we will rewind for another try.

Wildgate offers a chaotic, often brutal, but undeniably memorable journey to those who dare going beyond its first few hours. Each mission becomes an unpredictable story, each confrontation a test of composure and coordination. While its technical flaws and limited accessibility sometimes hinder immersion, the game makes up for it with a unique atmosphere, varied gameplay and constant unease. More than just a cooperative shooter, Wildgate functions as a shared adventure, where improvisation, anticipation and mutual aid forge the best memories, much like another well-known pirate game: Sea of Thieves.

The path of the ninja is fraught with danger, but the mission has been accomplished thanks to the alliance between The Game Kitchen clan and the ninjas at Dotemu. The challenge of bringing the licence back from the 1980s/1990s and modernising the experience has been completed without a hitch. The love for the title shines through, the reimagined gameplay works wonders and the pixel art is top-notch. For all fans of retro experiences, we award it an S rating.

Abandoning Grounded to start work on a much more ambitious sequel seems clearly the best decision Obisidan Entertainment could have made with this franchise. Backed by Eidos-Montréal, the studio has a particularly robust foundation. We're now keeping our fingers crossed that future additions will enrich the content and mechanics enough to make it a new benchmark in survival and crafting games. However, there are still many technical issues to be addressed, although communication with players during early access should help iron out any remaining kinks.

We thought we would only spend a few summer afternoons with Wuchang, especially since it is available on Game Pass. It should have been nothing more than an already forgotten holiday fling by the time school started again, which may be true in part because of its story (which is not unpleasant, though), but it is hard to be picky given the game's systems, which give players a lot of freedom. Very generous in terms of content, ticking many of the boxes of the Souls-like genre while inventing its own formula, the title shows that Leenzee Games has understood the essence of the genre and has managed to add its own touch. In a nutshell, yes, Wuchang may stay longer in our hearts than we initially thought so.

Islanders: New Shores is a delightful invitation to creativity and travel. With its minimalist, colourful and charming graphics, it is very poetic and also features a beautiful soundtrack indulging us in moments of zen and relaxation. Its gameplay is quick to learn and accessible, allowing everyone to get started with this simple but original city builder. We had a lot of fun discovering this title, which offers a nice little break that is both soothing and entertaining.

Stuck for too long in the dark realm, Raidou deserved much more light. That has now been rectified, and we are delighted to see him back in a remastered version where some proper work has been done: graphics, quality of life options, playability, voice acting... We can't wait to continue the adventures of the XIV, whose second episode may also be getting a remake, if the game's producer is to be believed. Did I say remake? Sorry, remaster.

Nightrein fulfils the dream of going of roaming a familiar universe with friends. Will you be hooked on it all night? Not necessarily. However, FromSoftware's DNA is clearly present in the learning curve, the challenges and the feeling of pushing yourself beyond your limits. Nightreign is a roguelike game whose addictive potential will depend on how much you invest in it. Its multiplayer aspect could be improved with for example the much-requested two-player mode, integrated chat, or simply cross-play. Still, it's a nice dip into multiplayer gaming, and we look forward to seeing how the studio integrates this aspect into its future productions.

Robots at Midnight presents itself as a light and stylised alternative to traditional Souls-like games. With its streamlined mechanics, visually distinct universe and deliberately accessible gameplay, it manages to offer an enjoyable experience, driven by a few original ideas such as the MITT space-gauntlet and the dynamic sequences linked to when midnight strikes. However, beyond this promising façade, the game quickly reveals its limitations. Its short lifespan, lack of gameplay depth and sparse world betray the constraints of a modest project that struggles to live up to its ambitions. The gameplay, while functional, remains too linear to inspire real engagement, and the narrative and aesthetic elements never find the scope necessary to transform discovery into lasting immersion. Ultimately, Robots at Midnight is no failure, but it never really goes beyond the stage of an interesting prototype. It lays intriguing foundations without exploring them in depth, and is aimed primarily at a curious audience looking for a short, unusual and relatively accessible adventure in an often demanding genre.

MindsEye had potential: a futuristic universe, an intriguing storyline and powerful themes about AI and its technological challenges, but the result is disappointing. The gameplay is sorely lacking in fluidity and originality, the enemy AI suffers from a glaring lack of responsiveness and consistency, and the linear and repetitive missions quickly become tedious. Even Redrock City, which showed promise, appears desperately empty with no side activities and, above all, no soul. And the disappointment doesn't end there. Visually, the graphics fall short of current standards with persistent technical issues such as flickering, slowdowns, popping and frame rate drops despite patches. MindsEye joins the depressing and growing list of games that were released prematurely and not really finished. The studio is trying to reassure players by releasing a series of updates to improve the overall experience. A multiplayer mode and a construction system have also been announced to enrich the content. But will all this be enough to give MindsEye a second wind similar to Cyberpunk 2077's comeback?

The problem with Star Overdrive is that it's just an average game in a market where hundreds of titles are released every day. So why give it a chance when there are other, better-made games out there? However, we must salute the achievement of the independent studio, which has managed to create a dynamic open world with a stable frame rate. So much so that we are sorry to have to give such a negative assessment of the game. Unfortunately, Star Overdrive is more frustrating than fun and fails to become the space-based Breath of the Wild it aspires to be, but who knows... maybe in three or four updates?

Joyfully absurd, Date Everything is a fun dating simulator that tackles real issues around mental and sexual health with a great deal of kindness. These are topics that it's perfectly possible to ignore in order to focus on ending a romance with a bath towel! The title is still imperfect due to bugs and a lack of accessibility options, but it already offers a concept that is fun enough to attract curious and open-minded players. It's not the game of the year, but we applaud the originality shown by Sassy Chap and Team17.

30 Birds is a poetic and funny game that blends an oriental tale with a detective story. In this enchanting journey, the player takes on the role of Zig who navigates through breathtaking landscapes and solves fun and complex puzzles in an attempt to unravel the mystery of Simurgh's disappearance.

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live with your double, The Alters might have the answer! The game is as varied as the multiverse that inspired it, accessible to newcomers and challenging for survival fans, comical in its misunderstandings and dramatic in its stakes. An original adventure brimming with good ideas that is definitely worth checking out. In fact, we are going back for more!

Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon is not a game for everyone. It requires a certain tolerance for technical clumsiness, a taste for free exploration, and an attraction to heavy, mystical atmospheres. The game does not revolutionise the genre, but it has a solid grasp of the mechanics it chooses to exploit. And for those who are willing to dive in, it offers a rewarding experience, rich in meaning and atmosphere, which unfolds and gains depth throughout the adventure. It is a work marked by the passion of its creators, who, despite their limited resources, have managed to propose a unique open world, challenging gameplay and an interesting alternative mythology. Despite lacking some proper finish, this adventure and its captivating universe and gameplay are worth spending some time on.

Throes of the Watchmaker manages to complement Sea of Stars without weighing it down with a well-thought-out adventure that finally brings its heroes down from their pedestals to confront their deepest fears. It's a wonderful gift for fans and further proof of Sabotage Studio's talent. Since the game is still available in Game Pass and the DLC is free, fans of old-school turn-based RPGs have no reason not to give it a try.

Onimusha 2 remains an experience of its time. Visually, like its hero, the game hasn't aged a bit, and the gameplay mechanics are enjoyable, despite camera angles that will frustrate many players. There's no denying that Capcom has done a neat job of making it more digestible. The poor writing and its gallery of ridiculous villains,which by the way shouldn't be taken seriously, unfortunately drag it through the mud.

Despite a few imperfections, Blades of Fire stands out as an intense adventure where challenge and strategy are at the heart of the gameplay. Its captivating universe with unique characters and its varied and customisable combat system offer an immersive experience that rewards persevering players. However, the forging system may appeal to fans of customisation, but it may also confuse those looking for immediate gameplay.

Post Trauma does pretty well thanks to its immersive Silent Hill-esque atmosphere and its sordid and intriguing universe, enhanced by high-quality sound design. However, the rigid gameplay, the sometimes temperamental camera, the limited bestiary and a few texture and flickering issues, as well as collision bugs, detract from the experience. Despite these flaws, the title remains an immersive experience that knows how to play on its oppressive atmosphere to captivate thrill seekers. Indeed, given its modest price (€15), it remains an honest offering.

Right from the start, Despelote shows its offensive ambitions with its offbeat artistic direction. The mix of semi-photographic settings and drawn characters is instantly appealing. Unfortunately, the development team fails to fully realise its ambitions due to overly pixelated textures in certain environments. Simultaneously, a notable flaw linked to a lack of flexibility in the progression system warrants a yellow card. Upon analysing the inaccuracy of the shots, the title avoids a red card by a thread and we will stick with raising a white flag. Indeed, the appeal of the experience lies not in its football gameplay, but in its storytelling, which offers a universal message. This satisfying narrative therefore allows the game to score a short but sweet victory in our little football-loving hearts.

Preserve is a pleasant surprise. We were expecting yet another classic building game, but this is nothing of the sort. Thanks to its original and ingenious gameplay and its card-playing and card-laying system, it stands out and offers players a relaxing moment of reflection without frustration. Finally, its colourful graphics and nature theme make it enjoyable to create beautiful biomes that invite you to explore and discover them fully. We highly recommend this title as it offers a soothing and addictive escape that is good for the soul.

The Precinct aims to change the GTA-style genre by reversing the roles, featuring more structured police gameplay and a retro atmosphere inspired by 1980s crime films. While the concept, aesthetics and variety of patrol situations are appealing, the game suffers from a lack of narrative depth, repetitive gameplay and notable technical issues. The game offers an arcade-style police simulation, in which you shouldn't expect anything more than a sandbox world, but one in which you can still have a good time.

Revenge of the Savage Planet is a successful and improved sequel to its predecessor with a larger universe, four planets to explore and a change of perspective to third person. We appreciate its enriched and smoother gameplay, new weapons and the addition of local co-op which really add to the fun. We are also delighted to see the return of the game's slapstick humour and colourful art direction, which remain key elements that reinforce its unique identity. Despite a few minor bugs and some aspects that may divide opinion, such as the third-person view and the absurd parody, this intergalactic adventure, while not revolutionising the genre, remains enjoyable and will delight fans of exploration. We recommend playing it with a friend. Since it is already available in Xbox Game Pass, it would be a shame to miss out!

After a promising first instalment, this second one struggles to reinvent itself, repeating the same strengths and weaknesses of its predecessor. The pace remains slow and uneven with an onset that is slow to get going and lacks originality. As for the ending, it is vague and overly predictable, leaving several questions unanswered while raising new ones, which only adds to the frustration and may disappoint. Despite its undeniable qualities, the experience ends on a mixed note, leaving a bitter aftertaste as our expectations were so high.

Spirit of the North 2 fixes many of the flaws of its predecessor. While it still has too many frustrating issues, we still appreciate its peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, the variety of its settings, and the sense of majesty it exudes. The adventure isn't perfect, but it's far from disappointing. All that's left for Infuse to do is polish it up one last time, and we'll have the first game where the best part is actually getting lost.

Once Upon A Puppet stands out as an original and charming work, carried by remarkable artistic direction and poetic storytelling. Thanks to the ingenuity of its gameplay based on cooperation and the bonds between Drev and Nieve, the game skilfully blends emotion, reflection and combat, while immersing the player in a rich and theatrical universe. Despite a few technical flaws, such as imprecise movement and jump controls, objects that get stuck in the scenery, and a finicky camera, we had a great time discovering this adventure that blends platforming and interactive storytelling, and we hope it finds its audience.

For its first game, the young studio Unreliable Narrators has produced a rather successful work. Although the purely narrative aspect of the title will not appeal to all players, its story offers an exciting and highly rewarding adventure that is well worth discovering. One thing is certain: when you see the care and love that its creators have put into Two Falls Nishu Takuatshina, we are very curious to see what they will do next.

Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree is an ambitious action RPG with solid art direction and deep character customisation. The richly detailed world, increasing difficulty, multiple gameplay systems and numerous secrets hidden throughout the levels make for a captivating game. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, Mandragora suffered from a major save issue, which made the game unplayable. Additionally, the difficulty may discourage some players, but it is possible to adjust enemy damage and health. All in all, the title remains very interesting for demanding RPG fans, and we can only recommend it since the update.

In a video game industry that promotes non-stop fighting, Pilo and the Holobook stands proudly as a gentle interlude that we would like to see more often. The title skilfully combines the exploration of tiny planets in search of stickers of all kinds to complete a beautiful collection. However, the pages of our peculiar book fill up a little too quickly and could have been better organised for younger players. Despite this, the adventure is enough to keep you entertained for a few hours, unless you are afraid of hairy situations!

With Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Sandfall Interactive came up with a masterpiece. Beautiful, powerful, original, captivating... this turn-based adventure RPG has brilliantly modernised the classics that inspired it and surprises the player where you least expect it. Seeing a small independent team come up with such an ambitious title is a real breath of fresh air for a video game industry that seems to have been going round in circles for several years between niche games that never find their audience and big productions that are becoming increasingly uniform in order to reach as many players as possible. "To say goodbye is to die a little", and that is the issue when you love something like this game: you eventually have to say goodbye. When it is time to put down the controller, one thing remains clear in our head: is not creating a true masterpiece out of a game dealing with art the most beautiful mise en abyme there is?

L'Amerzone - Le testament de l'explorateur brilliantly proves that point-and-click games still have a bright future ahead of them. The Microids team has achieved a real tour de force by modernising and enhancing Benoît Sokal's universe while preserving its original essence. Thanks to a sumptuous graphical overhaul, captivating and immersive storytelling, fluid gameplay, thrilling puzzles and haunting soundtrack, this masterpiece has been given a new lease of life. Whether you are a fan of point-and-click games, nostalgic for the original work, or a newcomer eager to discover this timeless classic, this re-release deserves your attention and is an unmissable experience.

Despite a few flaws, including game mechanics that are not always obvious, a relatively short lifespan and some slight slowdowns, the title is brimming with charm and authenticity. Leila is an appealing work that combines charming visuals with hand-drawn artwork, immersive storytelling, clever puzzles and a soothing soundtrack for an overall rich, entertaining and moving emotional experience. Driven by strong and universal themes, the game invites us on a deep and poetic reflection journey, leaving it up to each player to find their own interpretation. The game is available at a very reasonable price (€12.99) and we highly encourage you to check it out.

Finding Frankie is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you’re gonna get! Thanks to a unique concept, this game cleverly combines demanding obstacle courses with disturbing mascots in a universe that contrasts the colourful style of cartoons with a few macabre elements. Despite the charm of Deputy Duck, the title failed to win us over due to numerous flaws ruining the experience such as imperfect handling, high difficulty, lack of real horror, uneven courses, patchy sound effects, and a way too short lifespan. This niche title will not appeal to everyone and is mainly aimed at seasoned obstacle course players, a category which is not, it must be said, our cup of tea.

A Monkey reaching for the Moon, in the end what beasts can see is nothing more than the Moon reflected in water, though they may struggle to capture it, they shall only sink to the water’s depths.” Even though we could technically sum up Bleach Rebirth of Souls in this poetic way, it would nevertheless be an offence to it. Whether it be through its desire to establish an “original” game system or its truly generous solo content, Bleach Rebirth of Souls has kept us hooked for many hours. The title offers a pleasant experience for fans who are not too fussy about the small issues and are willing to wait for a more decent price. Overall, there is no denying that we have a “fang” for it.

South of Midnight's adventure is likely to confuse a large number of players. However, the title has some serious assets, particularly with its poetic artistic orientation. In addition, the integration of American myths into Hazel's story offers sensations as pleasant as those felt when a subtle wind from the south comforts you. Unfortunately, the overall experience went south because of completely outmoded technique and repetitive action sequences. It was like discovering a game lost at the beginning of this century because of its overly linear structure. This is highly regrettable, as we would have gladly lost ourselves for a few more hours in the company of Prospero with his endearing characters and excellent soundtrack. Perhaps our wishes will be granted in a possible sequel? Indeed, Xboxygen wishes for this game to find its right direction!

Atomfall offers an immersive adventure in a post-apocalyptic universe sprinkled with a dash of British charm. Although it does not revolutionise the genre, we enjoyed the plot, the narration and the free exploration that bolsters the feeling of freedom. The bartering system adds a touch of originality, while the classic but effective gameplay and customisable difficulty make it accessible to all types of players. However, it is not without its flaws: unbalanced graphics, sound and image bugs, NPCs that are not always well modelled and a soundtrack that lacks depth. All in all, the title is more of a narrative FPS with some survival elements, but it does not embody a pure and simple authentic survival experience.

The First Berserker Khazan is an ambitious and absolutely charming souls-like game with its dark universe and rich gameplay. Its dynamic combat system, combining mechanics from hack'n slash and RPG, offers a dense and varied experience. Unfortunately, clumsy narration and poorly balanced difficulty tarnish the whole picture. While the confrontations are demanding and rewarding at the beginning, frustrating peaks of difficulty, especially against the main bosses, end up detracting from the enjoyment of the game. Despite a solid foundation and undeniable potential, the title struggles to maintain its interest over time, leaving a mixed impression of challenge, frustration and weariness.

As one would expect, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is part of the saga’s line of terrific titles. This episode once again highlights all the expertise of the Ubisoft studios regarding historical reconstruction. Feudal Japan might be the game’s strongest feature, almost eclipsing the other new features. We should also mention the different fighting styles of the two heroes, which offer a welcome variety of gameplay. Nevertheless, the recurring flaws of the licence are still likely to disappoint some players, such as the obscure enemy reactions during infiltration phases. It is a real shame because it is not far from rekindling the spark of the glory days from a not-so-distant past. Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.

While not all the ingredients that make up the formula of this new Atelier game are necessarily S-tier, the end result is of good quality thanks to the many ideas that have been used to freshen up the licence. Unfortunately, the title is likely to appeal only to diehard fans of the series or to a few curious onlookers and others will probably be put off by its apparent complexity, the messy aspect of its battles and the sense of confusion conveyed by its gameplay. However, the synthesis of alchemy, adventure, construction and a richer storyline brings a pleasant revival to the genre and is worth a try.

The first part of Lost Records: Bloom and Rage won us over thanks to its careful artistic direction, its remarkable writing quality and its endearing characters. The skilful staging of the dual temporality brilliantly mixes a very successful nostalgic atmosphere of the 90s with an immersive narration carried by a classic but effective gameplay. The music perfectly exacerbates the atmosphere and gives the title a strong and captivating identity that reinforces its emotional impact. However, a few shadows darken this picture, such as the sometimes excessive use of the camcorder which breaks the rhythm and can get redundant after some time, the scenario which struggles to get going, and a notable drop in framerates. In addition, we would have liked more enigmas. Despite these negative points, we cannot wait to find out more.

Dragonkin: The Banished is a good attempt at the Hack'n'Slash genre thanks to an original universe and an interesting modular gameplay. Its skill system and strategic approach via the Ancestral Grid offer a great deal of freedom for customisation and exploring its vast world gifts us with some visually brilliant moments. However, the game sometimes suffers from what feels likerushed main content, a level design that encourages exploration but offers little reward in compensation, and a lack of polish in certain aspects, notably the boss fights and balancing the difficulty with level scaling. While the experience is still quite enjoyable for fans of the genre, the lack of a multiplayer mode and a gameplay loop that is currently running out of steam relatively quickly kind of hinders its long-term appeal. It is worth mentioning that the game is, for the time being, in early access and nevertheless shows interesting potential. Additionally, the announced updates could well enrich the experience between now and its final release. So, let us see what happens next by the end of 2025...

Chornobyl Liquidators immerses us in the shoes of the anonymous heroes who sacrificed themselves to contain one of the worst disasters of the last century in order to safeguard humanity. Through a poignant narrative and a realistic simulation, it provides an original experience combining historical narrative, fear, emotions and bravery. Unfortunately, despite a laudable intention and a touching tribute, the visually dated graphics, the too many bugs and certain unnecessary side quests tarnish the whole experience. As a result, it leaves us with a feeling of something left unfinished, and does not make it a memorable experience, despite its potential.

Konami is building a new chapter in its Suikoden saga on the ashes of its series. Is this a revolution? No, merely an upheaval, and far from what it should be. It is barely an update, but enough to bring new players on board, win back old ones and stir the embers for a concept that deserves to continue its legend.

Tails of Iron 2 uses a tried and tested action-RPG formula, while presenting a very neat 2D artistic direction and even benefiting from Geralt of Rivia's voice. Apart from a few ergonomic adjustments, the combat component, which embodies the heart of its gameplay, is well oiled. Exploration and management could be far better to what is currently on offer. All in all, even if it is a decent game that we can recommend without any hesitation, the Tails of Iron licence could become much more, provided that these other aspects are exploited further. As they say, all good things come in threes.

Split Fiction fully deserves to see its name appear on the list of the best cooperative video game titles. The multiple science fiction and fantasy stories are fascinating to follow, thanks in particular to some sublime immersive levels. Moreover, the adventure is led by an endearing female duo, who slide from one crazy scene to another at an intense pace. Behind their screen, the two players will surely be constantly surprised by the different actions to be carried out in a coordinated manner. However, those who have already tried their hand at previous Hazelight productions are likely to quickly notice all the studio’s know-how and signature movesets, and thus engage in some comparative analyses. There are indeed a few things missing for the title to be perfect, such as more mini-games within the explorable areas, but be snoopy and give a chance to this marvellous fairytale work!