Rock Band manages to be the definitive music game experience and if you enjoyed the previous ones chances are you will fall in love all over again.

Truly one of the most impressive years for the monstrous sports studio.

I admit the first 30 minutes of the game feel really slow and disappointing, but once you move past that it easily becomes one of the best games I have played this year.

Forza Horizon 3 is one of the best racing games I have ever played, and somehow continues to prove that this series just keeps getting better. How Playground Games continues to make what already feels like the definitive arcade racing experience even better is beyond my comprehension. If you have any interest in racing games at all, this is a can’t miss title.

Nothing has changed from the XBLA version, but that is not a problem at all as Peggle is a very addicting game that will have you playing for hours. And with the release of Peggle Nights to bring the level count to well over 200(!), that life you had before Peggle, yeah you might as well kiss it good-bye. Welcome to the PSN, Peggle, you will be loved by many.

Dead Cells is most certainly a difficult game. It’s not going to take it easy on you, and it can get brutal at times, especially when making no progress in runs. While the game pushes for a speed run playthrough for the best possible outcome, it is important to know that rushing into a level can easily ruin a run for you. The fun is in the combat without a doubt, and any action fan will have a great time with this one. Even if you don’t normally enjoy Rogue-like style game, this is one of those you have to pick up.

My only gripe about GOW: COO is that is just too short. I completed the game on the normal difficulty in less than 5 hours on my first play through.

A must buy for any baseball fan. It is up there with some of the best baseball games of all time, and is one that deserves to go on your shelf. Sony literally hit it out of the park this year.

Despite my reservations about whether or not Shadow of the Colossus needed a remake, I came to a realization during the course of my playthrough that I was simply asking the wrong question. As I toppled one colossus after another, I often found myself stopping in my tracks, awe-stricken by what was on display. I felt the rush- the exhilaration that came in those moments where I was clinging desperately to the colossus and as the sweeping melody washed over me like a wave, I knew that if I could have an experience like this on my fourth playthrough of a game, this was a masterpiece that did not need but rather, deserved a remake as expertly and loving crafted as this one.

For those following the Witcher over the years in the gaming world, it’s a bit of a sad note to see that Geralt will no longer be the focus in future games set in the universe. Who even knows when or if we get another Witcher game, but at the same time it’s fitting to see just how well Witcher 3 and it’s expansions come together to not only offer great improvements and new adventures, but to really put a great and final end cap to a great character and an amazing world.

With gorgeous graphics and great moment to moment gunplay, Killzone 2 should not disappoint any shooter fan.

There is simply not a better, more complete shooter on the market, and with all this content, there isn't any way you can find something that you cannot sink your teeth into.

Resident Evil 4 Remake is an absolute delight. Veterans of the original will love the changes and newcomers can now appreciate just how good this game actually is. Capcom continues the trend of keeping the series fresh in our minds. I cannot wait for the next new entry as well as what remake they do next. Almost guaranteed we will see RE5 next, but Capcom please listen to your fans and give us that Code Veronica remake we so rightly desire. Regardless, fans of the series are eating so good right now.

All of these elements blend together perfectly to deliver the most cinematic gaming experience since "Metal Gear Solid" on the PSOne. MGS was the only other game that I have played that I felt like I was actually playing a movie.

An incredibly robust package that will please any racing game fan. Even players not so keen on simulation owe it to themselves to check it out. There is so much content included on the disc that you could literally spend months trying to see it all. Combine that with outstanding presentation and truly spectacular handling and you have the definitive car-driving simulator.

One of those games that comes along every few years that will have gamers talking about it long into the future. It is this year's BioShock, and I for one could not put it down from start to finish. If you enjoy great narrative, interesting boss encounters, fresh gameplay and of course everyone's favorite detective then Arkham Asylum will not disappoint.

Writing this review has been hell for me, never have I had to write so much about something I wanted to do so badly. I've had to stop myself at least 4 times from tucking this away and jumping on Dragon Age. It's the best recommendation I can give the game, its beyond addictive, and the story is so good that I never want it to end.

Mark of the Ninja is a fantastic game.

Simply put it’s one of the best games available on the 3DS or anywhere else, and it’s a must play.

It’s a testament to the series brand as a whole to make an otherwise solid title feel disappointing, but I’ve come to expect more and I hope they find the right path through the dark in the next sequel.

I can’t speak highly enough of this game despite really not being one for horror. It felt fair. It felt accessible (there is an Easy mode for people who want to feel less helpless). The original game has always been touted as a classic and I see why. This game was fantastic and despite it only being January I can definitely see this as a game of the year contender. Spectacular work and a must have.

Donkey Kong Bananza should have launched with the Switch 2. This is the first game that has made me super excited to own the console. This is the next great platformer from Nintendo and gives me even more excitement for the next proper Mario game. DK holds his own though and I cannot recommend this enough. If you have a Switch 2, this game should be in your library.

Far Cry 3 was a shock all around. After being cold on the second game and only mildly excited about the original, I wasn't expecting groundbreaking. FC3 obliterated my expectations and is easily in my top-tier of 2012 games. I can see myself sinking hours into the campaign, and I am stoked to see what people concoct with the map editor over time. If you like FPS games in general, you owe it to yourself to pick up FC3. The game exceeds all expectations and is quickly becoming one I can't stop thinking about when real life takes me away from Rook Island.

The Switch launch lineup might be light on exclusives and new games, but this package easily stands out as one of the best in the bunch. For anyone who missed out on Shovel Knight in its first run, this is a no-brainer. For Switch owners who might have already taken down the Order of No Quarter, the new expansions make it more than worthwhile for a double dip. Shovel Knight is an amazing franchise I hope to see continue long into the future, and is one of the few games I have actually beaten more than two times in this sea of endless titles releasing. A must own.

I admit the first 30 minutes of the game feel really slow and disappointing, but once you move past that it easily becomes one of the best games I have played this year.

A fantastic expansion pack. It shrugged off a lot of the easy game play that was introduced in the last expansion and requires you to have to work for the best gear. Add onto that quests that redefine what you should expect from an MMO, and you have a winner in my books.

Listen, I have waited a long time for this game and Remedy delivered a masterpiece here, flaws and all. The new creation of their own Remedy Universe shines brightly with the amount of crossover on display here with their last game Control. It was almost surprising how much the Federal Bureau of Control comes up against Saga and the FBI over the course of the game. I say surprising, but it is actually exciting to see what the future holds for these games. If Alan Wake 2 is any indication, Remedy is just getting started and whatever the greater story being told here I cannot wait for more. Fans of Alan Wake and its spin-off American Nightmare are going to love getting to reap the harvest of those seeds sowed so long ago. But Alan Wake 2 is also accessible for new fans alike and I would admonish anyone who genuinely enjoys weird, deep stories to check this one out.

Bayonetta is the kind of game that makes me appreciate why I love videogames. It really defines a time when things were not taken too seriously and the focus was more on style and gameplay than anything else. The outlandish boss battles and over-the-top action really make this game stand out amongst its peers.

Diablo III was a fantastic game to begin with, and Blizzard has just refined it once again, making this the best version to have.

A visually stunning title that continues the tradition of excellence the series is known for coupled with an outstanding online component and more than enough content to keep you playing for many months to come.

I would say it’s a must play for anyone old enough to remember blowing on a cartridge, but that would be selling it short. Nostalgia certainly enhances the experience, but this is a great game for anyone.

Trials Evolution is about as close as you can get to a perfect downloadable package. It has nearly limitless potential to entertain gamers, and its addictive properties are unmatched. If you liked the first game, this is a no-brainer. If you were lukewarm to the original, I suggest giving it another go.

The most important new thing is the heavy emphasis that is placed on bikes. You are after all part of a bike gang, and as such it never felt quite right to see Johnny driving a car.

Today, the best sports games are more than simulations; they are immersive, customizable and infinitely social. No game has elevated its sport to the level of "platform" better than EA's FIFA Soccer 12.

Remakes are a much harder thing to pull off than remasters. The original game exists and changing things can be a scary proposition to fans. Motive Studio has done an outstanding job of tweaking what worked and fixing what didn’t. This remake is on the same level as Capcom’s efforts with Resident Evil and will be considered one of the best going forward. This is a gold standard and I truly hope we get to see them continue this work with a new game in the series, or even a remake of the second game. I love this world and hope it is truly back and here to stay.

Truly one of the most impressive years for the monstrous sports studio.

Trails of Cold Steel II delivers in every front that truly matters. The deep, enjoyable combat engine of the original is further improved with the inclusion of new mechanics and a larger roster of playable characters. The overarching storyline and characters grabbed my attention from the very beginning and hasn’t let go even now, long after the credits have rolled. It’s a game that deserves to be on the radar of everyone who has ever in their lifetime enjoyed a single JRPG – just be sure to play the original first.

Fallout 3 is among the best games I've played this year, and represents both Bethesda's legacy and the legacy of the Fallout series incredibly well. It's easy to sink hours into exploring this world, and its depth will consume you if you let it. Fallout 3 is a must buy for anyone who loves games, regardless of your preferred genre.

Despite my few complaints, SMT V: Vengeance is a worthy upgrade that expands on the story and mechanics of the original in meaningful ways and easily earns the title of the definitive way to enjoy SMT V.

Spider-Man 2 is easily the best PlayStation first party game this year. I went from thinking it wouldn’t make my game of the year (to be fair it has been a stellar year) to definitely being on my list. Insomniac has truly evolved this series into the best franchise currently on the PlayStation platform.

This is one of the most memorable experiences in the history of gaming, and it is a shame if anyone misses out on it.

With a pleasant learning curve and gradual introduction to game features and environmental pitfalls Quest for the Golden Orchid is so polished that it comes across as effortless.

Phantom Hourglass not only capitalizes on the potential of a Zelda game, it taps into the oft neglected talents of the DS, from great graphics, to touch controls, to the casual appeal of the handheld.

Legends is one of the last great 2D platformers, and to think we may never see a sequel simply saddens me.

I can't imagine any fan of our national pastime that wouldn't love MLB 11.

There is a ton to see and do in Nier: Automata. Talking about much of it does it a disservice to the player. Don’t think about it. The game is finally on Xbox One. The more platforms the merrier. Perhaps one day Switch owners will get to experience it as well. This is a once-in-a-generation type experience. Go buy this game. Play it multiple times. It is worth every second of investment and I enjoyed pounding through all the endings for a second time. Somehow it was even better.

Ok look, cards aside, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth is a wild, ambitious retelling of that original story that dances carefully between nostalgia and complete narrative changes. I was surprised to see a certain character interact with another character so early in the tale, and the changes just kept on coming from there; but in a good way. Each of the character felt like they had more depth this time around, and the side missions don’t just feel like extra padding like in Remake. The story has it all, humor? Yep. Trauma. Oh, it’s here for sure in some big doses. Even though I already know the story beats from Final Fantasy 7 but Rebirth still managed to surprise me time and time again in the best way. Come for the Queen’s Blood, stay for the excellent Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth tale.

The bottom line is that every PS3 owning baseball fan should reserve a spot on their shelf for this no doubt first ballot Hall of Famer.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a game I might not have felt we needed, but could not stop playing once I dove in. It retains what made the original special while also adding enough to warrant a sequel. Moon Studios truly has carved out a spot for themselves among the pantheon of indie developers. I cannot wait to see what they do next and as for this title, there is simply no reason not to dive in. It is included in Game Pass and even at its asking price, it is more than worth the price of admission.

Last of Us II Remastered could have been a cash grab with the success of the TV show, but instead feels like a solid upgrade with a reasonable path for owners of the original. The added content is more than worth the asking price, and the game remains one of the most impressive technical feats of all time.

After the first hour the initially artful storytelling falls flat. You no longer want to explore or experiment, and why should you? Limbo trains you that curiosity is punished.

I can't recommend this game enough. I have loved the direction Klei has taken with their games so far. Shank was a little too much for me, even though it was such a great game. Mark of the Ninja seems to evidence refinement and growth for the studio. It has been a long time since I enjoyed a stealth game this much. The balance between risk and reward is perfectly balanced, and if you enjoy the genre, this is a must own.

The game may have the odd technical flaw, but it still stands out as the best in the franchise so far. Oodles of fun with an epic campaign and slick multiplayer, Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood is a serious contender for Game of the Year.

Super Meat Boy is a fantastic addition to the XBLA library and one of the most addictive games I have played all year.

Amazingly Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars outshines every other portable version of the series, and even some of the console offerings. This game is absolutely one of the most diverse and feature-rich games on the PSP, or any other system for that matter.

Even with the disappointing multi-player this is one game you simply must own if you are a fan of the genre. I cannot stress enough how incredible the campaign of Dead Space 2 really is. If you even liked the first one, the sequel is a must own on so many levels. The tension will have you gripping the controller and sitting on the edge of your seat for its entirety.

If you have played Okami before, or if you are interested in it now that the remake is here, there is no doubt in my mind, you really need to pick this game up. I usually don't say this, but this is more of an experience than it is a game. The story is charming, the visuals are beautiful, and the presentation makes me smile from ear to ear. This is one of the better HD upgrades and well worth the time and money. I can not suggest Okami enough.

If you own a 3DS, this is one game you simply cannot miss. Everything about it is so well designed and fun to play that you won't remove the cartridge for months.

Enemy Unknown is more than a worthy successor, and will definitely appease fans of the genre while roping in a few newcomers for sure. If you enjoy this type of game, I cannot recommend it enough. It takes the series, and genre to new levels, and sets an entirely new bar for quality.

I feel like I’m just scratching the surface of what Monster Hunter World has to offer. The sublime combat against a variety of awe inspiring monsters- the meaningful sense of progression where every little thing that I did felt like it mattered- it all culminated to the thrill of the hunt in those moments where with only a single life left, I fought against the odds, shoulder to shoulder with a group of strangers who became my brothers in-arms and when it was all said and done, I waved goodbye knowing that we had shared an unforgettable moment of triumph… until the next hunt.

Forza offers a fantastic sim race experience. The deep career mode, and incredible physics engine offer a one of a kind racing experience. Not to mention the replay value of a game with this level of customization.

Hearts of Stone is a fantastic addition to the Witcher 3 world that feels as if it was always a part of the game. It keeps up with the quality that one would expect. It’s refreshing in dialog, hilarious at times, inventive in its quests, and even after 70 plus hours in the core story, coming back to this world was extremely easy and welcomed.

The Xbox One version looks just as good if not a little better than its PS4 counterpart. It runs at a higher resolution and the world feels alive. It still has markings of its PS3 building, but it looks great regardless. I cannot wait to play Kiwami and Kiwami 2 on Xbox as well, as I never got a chance to finish those when they originally released. If for some reason you have not experienced the series there has never been a better time. The PS4 version is always on sale, it is in Game Pass for both Xbox and PC. Do not hesitate, play Yakuza and join me in experiencing one of the most unique and interesting games of the generation.

While it stuck to what Empire: Total War did and didn't come up with a lot of new things, it was still a lot of fun to play. If you have the dough, you should pick this up.

Even with its problems Empire Total War is an amazing addition to the series, it's great to look at, great to play, and will suck up all of your free time, and then start consuming the time you have set aside for stuff like real life!

The Mass Effect trilogy is one of the best RPGs in gaming history and now is the best time to jump in for the first, second, or tenth time. It showcases a type of game that we rarely get to see. Something that creates a world fun to get lost in. A game that makes talking to NPCs interesting. A world that is a joy to explore. We can only hope the next chapter continues the legacy these games have created, but for now this collection is a must own.

Trails from Zero is a wonderful introduction to Crosbell and the charming members of the SSS, expertly ported to PC with all the bells and whistles one would expect from a modern release. It’s a great sign of things to come for the sequel and an easy recommendation to all RPG fans.

Like a Dragon is a wonderful jumping in point for the series and also one of the best titles in it to date. Don’t sleep on this game, it is worth digging into.

Nothing about it screams revolution of the series, but at the same time, it remains a fairly fantastic experience. If looting and shooting for 30 hours sounds great to you, and you enjoy the shooting mechanics, it is a no-brainer. Playing with friends is a blast, and the humor is outstanding. This is a finely crafted sequel that will likely impress all fans of the original.

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is an impressive achievement and a near perfect remake. It manages to capture the charm of the original while improving on nearly all areas including visuals, combat, accessibility and more. It also has laid to rest a question that has been asked time and time again. “Which game should I play to get into the Trails series?”. You start with Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, end of discussion.

Xenoblade Chronicles is a fantastic game. It has some feelings of Final Fantasy XII, but at the same time, feels unlike any other game. The combat is complex and challenging, exploration is both fun and rewarding, and the story and world is something to be seen. Fans of the original game can still have a blast here and people who never tried it before on Wii or 3DS should most certainly pick this one up. This is one of those RPG that will be on top 10 lists for years.

The pure adrenaline rush that you get from any level in this game is amazing, the mission structure actually keeps you entertained, and the presentation and top-notch AI really draw the player into the game world.

After years of petitioning we have our Majora’s Mask remake, and it’s absolutely worth the time.

Unlike the iPad/iPhone version, the game offers everything the PC version does, and then some. So along with all the mini games, the Zen garden and the survival modes you also get local co-op and Vs modes, which give it added value.

As the follow up to the best selling game that Capcom has ever made and my personal pick for game of the year, it’s an understatement to say that there was a lot to live up to. Luckily, the masters at Capcom were more than up for the challenge and delivered on an expansion that highlights the unforgettable moments of triumph the series is synonymous for while moving forward with clever new mechanics that enhance the Monster Hunter experience to its finest iteration.

Newcomers can jump in, old fans will experience lots of ties to the previous games both visually and lore wise, and if this is indeed the final Dark Souls game in the series, it went out with its monster arms swinging high! It’s fitting that the end would come like this, not dead and buried but at the pinnacle of its hollowed life.

I freaking loved Sea of Stars, from its adorable graphic style to its heartwarming story Sea of Stars is a sure-fire hit. Even the times I ran into glitches and bugs I still enjoyed my time within its world. Sabotage studios already proved the pedigree of their studio with The Messenger but I fully expect them to level up with the release of Sea of Stars. With its enjoyable story, utterly fantastic musical score, and beautiful pixel world if you are a fan of RPG’s this one is NOT to be missed.

Demon's Souls is a fantastic game, with great environments and amazing boss battles. Unfortunately, most gamers will never see most of them. The bottom line is that this game is for the hardest of the hardcore.

If I’ve said it once, I have said it a thousand times; this is the greatest game ever. There is really nothing wrong with this game whatsoever. If you enjoy old school side scrolling, or you just want a really good adventure game to play on your 360. Look no further than Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, you won’t be disappointed at all!

Once again Codemasters brings home the cup when it comes to racing simulators. Their years of experience and their access to the many facets of the license are there to be seen on the screen. The latest game in the F1 series is once again a must have for both F1 fans and those that enjoy the deepest of racing sims.

Completely absorbing, Fable 2 is unfettered by its few faults and while perhaps not entirely epic in depth, it is truly epic in scope – and even more fun.

The game may have the odd technical flaw, but it still stands out as the best in the franchise so far. Oodles of fun with an epic campaign and slick multiplayer, Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood is a serious contender for Game of the Year.

This is a polished, more feature-filled version of the original game that adds enough new to make it worthy of purchase by fans of the series. Melee weapons, new modes and new zombie types make this a must have for those that adored the original game.

One of the most visceral and enjoyable experiences you will find on Xbox 360 this holiday season. If you love classic zombie movies and/or love the idea of co-op shooter there simply is no better game.

Titanfall 2 is the product of a developer that took to heart all the criticism that was thrown at the original.

If you’re into the old school side scrolling shooters like Contra and Metal Slug, this is a game that needs to be played, and the 3DS version is the best one to do that.

Despite a few issues, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a remarkable achievement that evolves the series formula in exciting ways, all the while weaving an emotionally charged story that is sure to be remembered for a long time to come. It makes a strong case not just as one of the best games of the year but as one of the best of all time.

This is how I remember the series when it was in its prime, and it feels good to get back to the core of enjoyment.

Super Mario 3D World was already one of the best 3D Mario games to date. Toss in some tweaks and a decent-sized expansion with new ideas and this package is a no-brainer. There is little to complain about with this latest Mario title on Switch. It is yet another must-own game for the platform. I am excited to see where Mario goes next and this is a perfect end to the 35th anniversary celebration of gaming’s first and oldest icon.

This game will beat you to a pulp and not apologize for it, and then it will beat you again for bleeding too much. The small touches and attention to detail really make this game shine as one of the most difficult, rewarding, and unique experiences I have ever had while playing a game.

Digital Eclipse continues to do the Lord’s work with these Gold Master collections. Being able to learn the stories behind them from the people that made them is the best form of preservation. I want them to do all the games, which is unfathomable, but I will be there for each entry into this series and every developer should be banging down their door to get one made for their game. Highly recommended.

Pokopia is great and it’s going to easily be in my top 10 games of 2026. It’s just a nice experience to see kindness in the face of tragedy which the plot of Pokopia explores. None of the Pokémon fight, they are kind and simply enjoy playing (something that The Pokémon Company has always said in the face of animal abuse allegations but never fully explored in game). I think Pokopia is going to force a lot of games in the cozy genre to reevaluate what they are doing because there’s both freedom and structure for the player and it does an amazing job balancing both. It’s just good vibes.

Tekken 8 is an outstanding entry into the series with a ton of content for both online and offline players. This is how you pack a game with enough content to keep players invested. The plethora of modes, customization, and superb game play create a package that any fan of the genre should not miss.

For what is a very reasonable price of 800MSP, Fez is a game that will give you hours of gameplay. There are still questions unanswered, even with the collective mind of the internet, so who knows how much the game has to offer. I do know that, even now, you will get a lot of enjoyment and frustration from this game if you are at all interested in puzzles. The cuteness and originality far exceeded my first expectations, and bodes for an overall excellent game.

The story is told amazingly well, the characters feel real and seeing how my decisions affected the story was nothing but a great ride. I can't suggest this episode or the entire series enough. You owe it to yourself to give this series a shot.

PC players that have already played the game and DLC are the ones that will maybe think twice before going through it again, while Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 players will get the most out of it.

There may be some pointless loot drops more times than not, there may be some difficulty issues with single player story missions, and there may be some graphical glitches and texture pop-ins, but none of that takes away from the fact that Borderlands 2 is a solid first-person shooter and a great RPG.

Definitely the best of the series, and easily the most streamlined of the genre. The option for importing songs is disappointing, but everything else is finally up to par with that other music game.