Look, I freaking love The Precinct but I had a feeling I would when I first saw it back in 2023. The moment-to-moment gameplay feels just like watching those cop shows from the 80’s; running perps down on foot, getting into crazy shootouts and exploding cars, even your partner telling you how close to retirement he is; everything about The Precinct is so deliciously 80’s and I thoroughly savored and enjoyed every moment of it. I do hope we can see more non-lethal options in a sequel or expansion, but I think the ultimate treat would be the ability to be a good cop or bad cop, a morality system would add something for sure, but for now The Precinct stands as a great example of police simulation done right.

I think the team at Silent Games is on to something with Empyreal. As I said the combat has some glimmers of greatness, it just needs to be refined a bit more. I love the fact they hand-designed the levels, but the overall graphics might have suffered as the game certainly is nothing to write home about in that area. But even with all that and the mostly forgettable story, Empyreal does have a solid loot system and some decent customization options which is nice but mileage will vary from gamer to gamer due to the frustrating and sometimes clunky combat.

Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is a fitting swan song for the Switch as its last major exclusive release and showcases just what it takes for a game to truly earn the title of “Definitive Edition”.

There is a lot packed in here, with over 20 hours of brain-bending content, it is definitely worth checking out for both newcomers and returning fans. The upgrades are worthwhile, and the new expansion is extremely fun. I had a blast revisiting this game and it is just as memorable as it was back in 2014. This is a must-play for those that enjoy these types of puzzle games. It really carves out its own niche and executes it extremely well. Hard to believe this game came from the same guys who created Serious Sam.

This is worth your time more than anything if you enjoy puzzles. Please please please don’t sit on Blue Prince (and bring a note pad, you’ll absolutely need it.)

While Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves doesn’t do much to set itself apart from other quality fighters on the market today, it’s a solid new entry in an iconic series that shows that SNK is still a worthy contender amongst the legends of the genre.

Lunar is a special series that is of its time. Both games hold up for me, and for anyone that enjoys classic RPGs, this is a must-have collection. I had a fantastic time revisiting these games and am so glad they are finally available without having to go through other means, or spending a small fortune on classic hardware. I do wish they had used the original voice actors and sped up the movement in Eternal Blue, but this is still an easy recommendation.

Drug Dealer Simulator is not going to appeal to everyone based on what its very game is. But those that do check it out will find a pretty competent business simulator that makes some missteps. Graphics feel dated and bland, there are a lot of menus to navigate, and the game is poor at explaining things. It just feels crazy because almost everything that DDS isn’t, Schedule 1 is. If you have an Xbox, then this is passable drug dealing experience and is worthy of your time until Schedule 1 makes its inevitable console debt that is.

Age of Mythology: Retold – Immortal Pillars is a great expansion for the series and feels like a celebration of Chinese mythology by not only showcasing excellent storytelling but also building on the top-notch strategic elements from its original release. By introducing the rich tapestry of Chinese legends and pairing it with refined gameplay and the stunning visuals, the expansion successfully reinvigorates the classic game for a new generation. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, Immortal Pillars offers tons of improvements over the base game and more to love about the Age of Mythology.

The more I played of Steel Seed the more I felt like that old saying where the kid asks for McDonalds and their mom says they have that at home. Yea, well Steel Seed is like the Stellar Blade we have at home. While the game itself is competent, its greatest sin for me is that it just wasn’t very fun. This seed didn’t bring forth the crop I thought it would, and I suggest just skipping this one.

Monster Energy Supercross 25 is a terrible name for such a finely crafted game. This is for the hardcore fans of the sport and Milestone has gone the extra mile to make sure all the realism is intact. They could have done more to ease in casual players, but everything else is fantastic. The new engine levels up the visuals and the customization is very appreciated. You just have to know what you are getting into before diving in. This game takes commitment and practice to fully enjoy it. Once you get past that though, it is one of the best in the genre.

Gorn 2 is a solid follow-up to the original; the new weapons, narrative and physics add so much to the already established formula of over the top. Players can expect flying body parts, floppy weapons and some genuinely hilarious moments. The boss fights are lots of fun, and the narrative is a really nice addition to what Gorn 2 offers; I do wish it was a tad longer but as the entity known as Q once said to Capt. Jean-Luc Picard; “All good things must come to an end”. Gorn 2 is a great reason to knock the dust off the VR device in your life, and its coming to everything so there is no reason to not jump into the arena.

Croc: Legend of the Gobbos is a winner on two levels for me. It is a game that is very near and dear to me, and the team came back to really make this remaster worth revisiting outside of nostalgia. They reworked the controls, made it look fantastic, and packed it with so many extras it is hard not to love it. This was one of my most anticipated remasters and it did not disappoint.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is an absolute gem of a game and it shines brightest on the PS5. Yep, that feels weird to say since this game is made by team Green; but by leveraging the added tech the PlayStation 5 has the team made the game feel like it was made especially for it. All the work that MachineGames has put into it really made the game shine in a way that; well, it just can’t on the Xbox. If you have been waiting for the PS5 release then I am here to tell you that this game is going knock your socks off and I am not even on a PS5 Pro; I can only imagine how well it handles an adventure of this magnitude.

As a big fan of Into the Bridge, I was expecting more from Grit and Valor – 1949. I ended up enjoying the real-time combat nature of the game even though I was expecting something turn-based. Mechs for me are always cool and some of these had a neat design but the inability to be able to target specific units feels like a huge miss. Grit and Valor isn’t a bad game necessarily it just doesn’t really feel like a good one either; it just doesn’t feel very interesting.

South of Midnight is by far the best game Compulsion has crafted. I love the story, characters, and world. The unique graphics are gorgeous to look at, and the combat is fun and interesting. Being on Game Pass is just the cherry on top. There is a lot to love here and another great game from Xbox this year. Their cadence finally seems to be in place and Xbox owners are eating well. Definitely recommended for just about anyone who enjoys action-adventure games.

The boss fights were a real highlight, it’s a shame the narrative didn’t shine as brightly; but if you are a fan of Dungeon Fighter Online you may enjoy it more than a noob like me.

I wanted to enjoy The Stones of Madness because I really loved The Game Kitchen’s other game series; Blasphemous. Aside from the incredible hand-drawn art style in the Madness game, I wasn’t really a fan of this game. The omission of something as simple and important to tactical-strategy games as the quick save feels like a really big miss. While The Stones of Madness feels unique in its approach to story and indeed the overall mystery; this one just wasn’t for me at the end of the day.

Ninja Five-O is a hidden gem from the GBA that was sadly lost to time. I am thrilled it is now readily available, at least if you own something besides an Xbox. Seriously Microsoft, get this worked out. It doesn’t have a ton of extras that make this package feel as premium as it should, but the game makes up for it. This is a game that deserves to be played, so if you enjoy classic ninja action, this game would make Michael Dudikoff proud.

I really wanted to like Atomfall, as I said that first trailer I was already intrigued by its weird and very British world but its narrative was boring to me. While its visuals for the various zones are drop-dead gorgeous at times, its ‘Leads’ system, while certainly unique; just leads to more frustration that innovation for me. And when you combine that on top of the combat system that has a reliance on melee but then refuses to give you the ability to block an on-coming punch while simultaneously letting you get beat-down by 13 dudes… nah, I had to fall off of this one.

Despite the dumb downed Alchemy and some technical issues, Atelier Yumia marks a great first step towards a new future for this long running series with its fun and rewarding exploration and enjoyable fast paced combat.

33 Immortals isn’t a finished product as of now but what the team has launched with is quite a bit of fun if you can get a room to work together. The lack of any sort of voice communication really handcuffs the MMO-type raid setting that the developers at Thunder Lotus is going for. What the game does have though is a killer hand-drawn art style, a fun and addicting gameplay loop and the benefit of being the only game of its type right now. I hope this recipe is one that sees 33 Immortals make it to the 1.0 finish line and beyond. [Early Access Provisional Score = 80]

I have been a big fan of the Assassin’s Creed games since their inception, back when Jade Raymond was shepherding young Desmond’s journey. It’s been a long time since then and the series has seen lots of changes and to me Assassin’s Creed Shadows marks the best this series has ever been. With its destructible environments, fantastic story and excellent characters, Shadows has managed to dethrone Odyssey as my favorite Assassin’s Creed game.

Omega Force’s attempt to enter the roguelite space with Warriors: Abyss is sadly quite underwhelming. I had some fun battling the waves of demons with the plethora of playable characters. But with some ugly graphics, no real randomization in levels/layout or bosses and limited gameplay features, this one is better left to the uber fans, even at its discounted price.

In the end this collection has one good game, one mediocre game, and one travesty. Of course, I still had to have it. My nostalgia and love for these games includes the trash. For anyone with reverence for these games, this is a solid collection. For anyone curious about the franchise, but the first collection and avoid this one. That original trilogy is still classic. After that, these games went to crap until Crystal Dynamics took over the franchise in 2006. I do hope we see a collection of those early Crystal Dynamics games at some point, especially the remake of the first one, but if you own an Xbox, you can play them via backward compatibility, which is awesome. They still hold up, as for this collection, skip it unless you are just curious about how bad Angel of Darkness truly was.

PGA 2K25 has a lot going for it, with a very satisfying swing system, a competently structured weekly tournament structure in Career mode, and a dizzyingly complex course creation suite. It’s a shame that the game is a bit lacking in the presentation department, with everything outside of the oncourse gameplay feeling a bit shallow in MyCareer. It’s also a shame that this is another franchise from 2K cursed by the scourge of microtransaction based player progression. As it stands, if you’re willing to grind it out and your primary concern is everything from the tee box to the flag you’ll have a great time here. If you’re looking for a more satisfying deep dive into the life of a Tour professional, without the predatory currency shilling, you’ll have to wait and see what they come up with for the next iteration.

I think a big problem here is that this is likely for a younger audience than the original Carmen Sandiego games were for and as someone that doesn’t watch this new show it’s hard for me to tell if I’m right on that assumption. There are weird callbacks to the 1985 original and I’m not sure who that is for? Will children know the number of stories the Sears Tower is? Will they even know Sears? Probably not. It’s a weird pull. Regardless, there isn’t much to say because even with my complaints there’s still a level of charm here. Narrowing down suspects based on clues and then hunting them down is neat and there is some educational value to this game… just maybe save yourself $30 and use your Netflix account to play it on mobile.

Split Fiction is a clear and early frontrunner for my Game of the Year for 2025. Every moment of this game was enjoyable, even just sitting on a bench and overlooking some epic landscape while the characters shared a bit about themselves.

Metal Suits: Counter-Attack is a game that I had never heard of before diving in. I am glad I got a chance to check it out though, as it ended up being one of the better side-scrolling action games I have played in a while. With so much vying for your attention these days, this is one not to miss. If you enjoy stuff like Contra, Broforce, or any game of that ilk, definitely keep this on your radar. It is more than worth your time.

Synduality: Echo of Ada presents an ambitious concept, trying to blend PvPvE gameplay with mech-based combat in a dystopian world. While there are some things that shine, like the strong visual design; it just doesn’t offset how extremely slow and grindy the early game is. For fans of the genre, Synduality might offer some enjoyment, but they shouldn’t expect anything groundbreaking. For anyone else I would wait until there is more of a dynamic and engaging experience, especially when it comes to the slow early game.

Two Point Museum is another great entry in the ‘Two Point Universe’. With each game the team at Two Point Studios shows their growth and as such each one is better than the last. Fans of micromanagement sim style games will find lots to love here, not the least of which is the stellar radio station that plays during gameplay. I am hoping that the team delivers some post-launch content to add some more areas to Two Point County, but even in its base form, I don’t see this one going extinct anytime soon.

It’s a good collection, but it could be even better. It could be great.

Monster Hunter Wilds is an exceptional entry in an already storied and critically acclaimed series. It features some of the most fun and engaging combat in series history and features a high-quality story campaign that’s very entertaining to watch unfold as well as an endgame filled to the brim with meaningful activities.

I enjoyed the original Tails of Iron, its hand drawn art and the story is what really did it. Tails of Iron 2 delivers more but polishes some of the rough edges that the original launched with. The new setting of the game is nice as well as the additions to the combat. The best addition by far is the ability to dial down the challenge, I love that we are seeing these sliders more and more in “soulslike” games. Whiskers of Winter is a solid sequel, even if it played it safe by not really making drastic changes to the formula from the original.

What happened here? Well the original game wasn’t great, so Aspyr definitely had their work cut out for them. You can only polish a turd so much. The new visuals are nice, the content is cool, but playing the game is just a painful exercise in frustration. It is never fun. I was constantly thinking about turning it off. I had to force myself to finish the first level when I started playing. This game is just not fun, and it should be. How they managed to take the easiest layup in gaming, making Jedi fun to play, and completely airballed it. I would skip this one entirely.

This was a genuinely touching story and there is a ton of payoff for players who are caught up with the series; especially the ending, while I have not played all the latest games, I am aware of the things that occurred in the last two games. I honestly can’t recommend this game enough for newcomers and longtime fans alike.

This is the definitive version of the game. Under Defeat is a game that feels like it never got a chance to breathe, so it is nice to finally have the ultimate version of the game available for just about every modern console and PC. This is a must have for shooter fans, definitely worth the price of admission.

This game just clicked with me and felt like the perfect marriage of stuff like Elder Scrolls and Mass Effect. Great story, great characters, and a world that is fun to explore with combat that never got old. I had a great time in the Living Lands, and I cannot wait to go back to a previous save and explore some more.

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator isn’t a bad game, it’s just a janky one. I had a good time diagnosing patients and honestly the drives to-and-from became a source of unintended comedy. I mean why would the pedestrians cross the street when an ambulance is coming down with sirens blazing going 80 MPH; I don’t really expect an answer, but I asked myself this question a lot while playing. I really wish the game looked better, even on my Series X things like characters hair were translucent and it was really off-putting at times. If you don’t mind some jank in your games and/or were curious what paramedics go through; then this game might tickle your fancy.

While Trails Through Daybreak II’s story doesn’t reach the heights of the previous entries, the expanded combat, re-introduction of side activities and a fun playground to test the might of the best teams I could muster made for a very enjoyable time all the same.

As I said in the beginning, I really love this game, while I never got to play the original version; Freedom Wars Remastered is a fantastic game. Blending the best of Monster Hunter and adding some kick-ass movements and abilities with the Thorn system, I really want Bandai to bring this franchise back. I am so curious what a new entry into this series built from the ground up with the new tech would look like. With any luck this was just a test to gauge public interest; and if so, I am extremely interested in the future of this franchise.

Gimmick! 2 is a fantastic follow-up to a classic video game a lot of people likely have never had the pleasure of playing. I love that it has returned and is now available for just about anyone to experience. Yes, it is hard, but that is what makes it special. The game never punishes its players and instead encourages trying again with excellent checkpoints. I do wish the original was included in this package just so I could revisit it, but otherwise this is a fantastic sequel to one of the most unique platformers of all time.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is not as fun as Orcs Must Die 3 but there is still some enjoyment here. Coming up with creative trap lanes and watching the orcs run helplessly into them is always a joy. And the fact that the game is on Xbox Game Pass lowers the barrier of entry to test it out; at least if you have Game Pass. But with brutal difficulty, playable War Mages whose albitites just feel lackluster and no real narrative to speak of this entry feels more like two steps back in the series rather than one step forward.

Turbo Overkill is definitely one of ‘those’ games, but it is a very well done one of those. I had a lot of fun mowing my way through it, and I cannot stress enough how much fun the chainsaw leg is. It is disappointing that nothing quite hits like that one mechanic, considering this game is packed with tons of weapons and upgrades that I barely ever touched. Still, it was a fun romp that reminds me of the classic shooters I grew up loving.

This game is a hot mess in space. I don’t even know what is redeeming about it, I guess that its Star Trek but even that isnt enough; and I am a HUGE Trekkie.

Sniping fascists and Nazi’s have never felt or looked better. Gameplay is tight, graphics are great, and there are some fun game modes. Truly, my biggest issue with the game is it just feels like it should be an expansion to Sniper Elite 5. Resistance isn’t though, it’s a full-priced game replete with season pass and the obligatory ‘Kill Hitler’ mission. I hope the next game in this legendary series does more to differentiate itself from this one with more than adding a new mode or weapon. Still, like I said at the outset; sniping Nazis is fun, and when it comes to Sniper Elite: Resistance, well, “if it ain’t broke.” as they say.

If you are remotely a fan of Dragon Age, Monster Hunter, Zelda, the Colossus games then I think you too will find some fun in Eternal Strands.

In conclusion, Tales of Graces f is a commendable remaster of a title that may not have been widely experienced by many players. It successfully retains the classic Tales combat mechanics, memorable music, and endearing characters that fans cherish. With its availability on nearly every platform, there is truly no reason for RPG enthusiasts to miss out on this gem. As Bandai Namco continues to breathe new life into the Tales series, the only lingering question remains: which beloved title will they choose to remaster next?

Given a choice, I’m sure I would pick a different game from NISA’s illustrious PS2 JRPG lineup that I would rather have a sequel of, but all things said, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is a great sequel that improves on the original in almost every way, providing a fun, tactically satisfying RPG that I’m very glad made a return.

Tri Breaker isn’t a bad game at all, in fact I found myself having some fun with it; despite me not being a fan of the vibe. There are some nice things along the way like various power-ups, and even boss fights which take away from the mundanity of block-breaking. Levels are all pretty varied which is nice, but that story is… well I mean its there. If you are a fan of the franchise, then I am sure you are invested and this will no doubt be a high point for you; but for me, the guy who just came in… this ain’t it story-wise. But if you are looking for a retro style block breaking game, this one might tickle your fancy, as it is pretty fun to play.

Snow Bros. Wonderland is a solid puzzle game that stays true to the original, while also bringing enough new tricks to make it feel fresh. Not having nostalgia for the series, I still had a great time. The game does enough to keep it interesting. Not sure why it was a classic, I still think Bubble Bobble is the better game, but I can now appreciate what people loved about the original. Definitely worth checking out if you enjoy puzzle games at all.

I just want to play a great pirate game; I feel like nothing has been able to top the experience of Ubisoft’s 2013 Assassins Creed: Black Flag. Even their own Skull and Bones pales in comparison. Flint: Treasure of Oblivion has an interesting concept by exploring Captain Flint from the Treasure Island novel. But the execution here makes it hard to recommend; ranging from minor issues and frame drops to confusing game elements and a lot of pointless wandering around the maps make this one feel like it should have just remained lost at sea.

Taito Milestones 3 has some of the best games in these collections to date, but I would really love it if they spent some time adding a sort of museum. I would love to learn more about these obscure arcade titles. Still, I have been on board with these since the first game. I do wish they would release them on more platforms and bulk up the extras, but they are hard not to recommend purely for nostalgic purposes.

Rita’s Rewind knows who its audience is and caters to it perfectly. If you have nostalgia for the show, this is a no-brainer. Even for someone like me who is aware of the series, but didn’t exactly have fond memories of it, I get what they are putting down. Combat can be stiff at times, but the break ups between levels really carries the experience.

There just isn’t enough here in Songs of Silence for me. If you are the type of player who wants to set up the pins and then watch the guy try and knock ‘em down; then this is for you. But I prefer being the one who is actually playing, not just setting things in motion. The very best things about Songs of Silence have nothing to do with its gameplay. This game has some of the best art direction that I have seen, with beautifully vibrant colored graphics and some stellar cutscenes; not to mention the excellent voice-acting and soundtrack. All of which just makes me sad that I didn’t like this more, If I was able to actually have more control over battles and their outcomes the inner RTS fan in me would love this game.

Victory Heat Rally transports me back to a time when whimsical games resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the joy and excitement that racing games can bring. It is a straightforward arcade racer that embraces its eccentricity and enjoyment, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Many developers strive to capture this genre, yet few truly comprehend what makes it enjoyable. It does not need to be laden with content or challenges; at times, I simply wish to disengage and accelerate, enjoying the thrill of the race without the pressure of complex mechanics. Victory Heat Rally accomplishes this on multiple levels, and for those who appreciate arcade racing games, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of racing games that prioritize fun and creativity over excessive complexity.

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.

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead is a mixed bag, while I enjoyed Alex’s story the journey to get to its end really felt endless at times. As I said, because players are forced to move through this world at a snail’s pace and avoid making sounds at all costs it really slows down the gameplay and thus the experience. There were points where just getting down a hallway felt like an eternity; I think this is an experience that just works better as a movie or TV show. Fans of the film may find this game to be much better than I did since there is an investment already in the world, but as a newbie the game did make me want to watch the films; so, I guess that’s something.

The Thaumaturge is a dark game that deals with some of the darkest depths of human nature. There is uncomfortable language surrounding disabled and homosexual characters, depictions of mental illness and more but these are all time-appropriate; no matter how harsh it may seem to view through the lens of 2024. In the hands of the developers at Fool’s Theory these themes are treated in a way to not glorify the past but it helps to shed the light on the negative stigmas from the past and show how they even still exist in today’s world. While I will admit, I almost checked out early on The Thaumaturge due to its somewhat boring gameplay loop, I am glad I didn’t because the story that it told made up for the moments of boredom.

I loved this game when it was released back in the day, and I still love it today. I do wish it stuck to its initial concept throughout the entire experience, but what is here is still tense and well executed here. Pair that with the excellent updates that Nightdive is known for, and this is a game I can wholeheartedly recommend. I really appreciate the mantra of Nightdive as they continue to remaster classics from a different time, and not just the well-known ones. The Thing is an encapsulation of gaming during the PS2 era, and I am all here for it.

Despite the decidedly rough first impression of sea exploration and combat, Ys X was a title I found myself enjoying more and more the further I got into it. The fun, fast paced combat, complimented by the wonderful chemistry between the two leads and an intriguing story that culminates in a final boss that is my favorite of the entire franchise thus far, Ys X: Nordics is easily one of the best entries in the long running series and an easy recommendation to anyone that enjoys ARPGs.

The Legacy of Kain series deserves to come back, and this collection is a nice first step. These games are dated, but still excellent. The price tag is decent at $30, but I do wish it had a little more meat to it. Still, I can highly recommend these games. Just be prepared to deal with the quirkiness of the beginning of 3D gaming. It will take some time, but the investment is worth it.

Neva is quite the masterpiece of a video game. With its breathtaking art direction, engaging gameplay and moving narrative it is a game that will resonate with players on a personal level much like this years Tales of Kenzara: Zau. I have always heard great things about Nomada Studio’s Gris but I never game it a shot. Based on how good Neva is, I really feel like I am missing out and plan to correct that mistake in the very near future.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is the best iteration of the character and easily the best thing Xbox has put out in years. MachineGames understood the assignment and nailed every aspect of the character while making it feel like a new entry in the movie/adventure series.

Ravenswatch is a lot of fun to play, I unlocked all of the playable characters and played with each and had a good time with all of them. The randomly generated nature of each level is nice but the truth of the matter is this game is very short. And while I recommend that players play multiplayer, the game does offer the option to play single-player but it’s hard as balls. I am sure some of you who love these brutal difficulty games will enjoy, but for those of us who have yet to ascend that difficulty mountain, dis tew much. All that being said though, I like Ravenswatch quite a bit. While my time with it is short, it was still a pretty enjoyable experience.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is a stellar addition to the franchise, with its multiplayer and zombies’ modes offering countless hours of entertainment. The game successfully combines smooth gameplay, strategic depth, and immersive storytelling, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. Although the campaign has room for improvement when it comes to character development, it still provides a bombastic and thrilling narrative that complements the other modes. Overall, Black Ops 6 is a testament to the enduring appeal and continual innovation of the Call of Duty series.

A remake was a risky move, considering both the old-school nature of the game and the fact that it has technically been remade three times already (Super NES, Game Boy Color, and the Mobile/Switch versions). I am so glad that Square Enix decided to take the leap and build this game into their incredible HD 2D engine. I’m even more excited that we’re getting DQ1 and 2 in this style next year (although I’m very curious how they’ll pull off the solo nature of DQ1). Whether this is your first or fourth time going through this absolute classic, you’ll completely adore this version. I hope it helps a whole new generation of RPG gamers experience a true pioneer.

LEGO Horizon Adventures is a weird game. On one side it is well-designed, looks good, and the voice performances are outstanding. On the other hand, I am not sure it will have a wide appeal. Horizon is the most successful polarizing game I have ever seen. Everyone has played it and it feels like a majority do not care for it. Combine that with a LEGO game and you get an awkward experience that feels like the definition of “who is this for?” Still, it is a solid game that anyone who wants more of that world will certainly enjoy.

The second IREM collection may not be packed with well-known games, but it includes important games. These titles set the stage for more popular games and launched the careers of these developers. It is worth knowing that from the outset. That is how I would market this collection, it makes it worth owning alone. Being able to see the origins of classic arcade games is great. Toss in making previously unavailable in the West games and you have a can’t miss collection that any gamer that grew up in 90s arcades would be disappointed to miss out on.

Planet Coaster 2 is a bigger, badder version of the original. I spent countless hours building parks in that as well as their other titles such as Jurassic World. These types of games just resonate with me, at least the sandbox portions do. I highly recommend this game, but if you have the option, go with the PC version just for mouse and keyboard support. It really does enhance the experience. Either way, there are dozens of hours of fun to be had in the world of Planet Coaster 2.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a fantastical adventure, brought to life in expert fashion by a team with all the experience and talent they needed to achieve a vision which truly feels like a culmination of the many lessons learned throughout their storied legacy.

Overall, while Throne and Liberty is a visually impressive and ambitious MMO, its overly complicated mechanics can be a significant barrier for many players. Simplifying some of these systems could help make the game more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. Developer, NCSOFT has done an excellent job in creating a rich and immersive world and I have enjoyed many of their past MMO’s, but the complexity of the mechanics needs to be addressed to ensure that players can fully appreciate and enjoy the experience.

Horizon Zero Dawn is a game Sony really wants you to love. This update is technically impressive on every level. The upgrade price is fair, and kudos to Nixxes for not just upping the resolution and framerate, there is a TON of work done here around the entire world. If you enjoy Aloy’s adventures, this is a no-brainer.

Phasmophobia on Xbox Series X is a must-play for horror enthusiasts. Playing with people is the most fun one can have; I don’t think anyone should hunt ghost alone. Phasmophobia has lots of levels and lots of spirits to track down, as well as a level system for players to improve their character and gear. The game is made for replayability, if you like spooky games with your friends or if you have always wanted to hunt for ghost but don’t really want to leave the house, well have I got a game for you.

Shadows of the Damned is the definition of a cult classic. The game is just fun, and I adore the wackiness I expect from Suda51 mixed with the core game design from MIkami. Toss in the excellent voice acting and score, and you have a game that should be a household name. Do not skip this title for a second time. Give it a shot, I promise you will play nothing else like it…ever.

Look, honestly, Blindfire is a new and certainly unique multiplayer shooter that is bringing something new to the genre in its pitch-black setting. Between the setting and the slower, more tactical-style gameplay; Blindfire is certainly gonna scratch an itch for fans. While the game still has some limitations, such as limited game modes and a declining player base, if the Blindfire marketing team is able to successful in spreading the word; then these are issues that will be a thing of the past. If they aren’t, well then, I suggest you check out Blindfire while you can if interested.

Whether you’re managing resources, planning tactical maneuvers, or simply exploring the detailed environments, Empire of Ants offers a unique gaming experience but with this year already seeing big strategy games drop; I hope this one doesn’t get lost on the hill.

Potionomics: Masterwork Edition is a magical and quite charming simulation game that offers a really unique blend of deck-building, business simulation and relationship building. It has a pretty engaging story and its cast of characters is really fun, but I was never able to get into the deck-building, haggle battles that players need to play in order to sell their wares. I am certain that there are fans that will love this, but it just wasn’t for me, and by that, I mean the card game. I loved everything around it, just kind of bummed I wasn’t able to fully embrace the whole game.

I wish I had more to say about the game in general, but it is a relatively simple experience. The campaign only lasts around 5-6 hours and never really switches up dynamics. With tedious combat and clunky controls, it is serviceable at best, and kind of boring at worst. Can we get a remaster of the move, the game. Kong deserves better.

Smurfs Dreams was truly a surprise. Comparing yourself to the king of platform games usually ends in tragedy, but here it actually feels warranted. Licensed games are rarely as good as the titles they impersonate. Smurfs Dreams manages to do this while bringing a little bit of its own flavor. If you have any love for that genre, I highly recommend this title. It is better than it has any right to be, and I had fun spending some time with childhood friends.

Metal Slug Tactics successfully reinvents the classic Metal Slug series by incorporating strategic elements and roguelike mechanics. While there is a story here, it never really felt like anything more than a reason to continue to push the player forward. I mean ‘stopping a megalomaniacal man who is all about world domination’ is pretty straight forward. But where this game truly shines is in the excellent strategic elements, even if they are more difficult than I would have liked. MST might not be the return to the Metal Slug series that many fans are hoping for, but it is, nevertheless, a fun and worthy entry into the series ongoing legacy.

Slitterhead is unique. That is the biggest compliment I can give it. There are things here that I love. The mood of the game, the music, and the concepts. It just doesn’t mesh well into a cohesive experience.

While I never played the original, Forgive Me Father 2 is a fantastic game. The game’s ability to blend classic shooter mechanics with Lovecraftian horror creates a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to the series, Forgive Me Father 2 offers a thrilling journey into madness that is not to be missed.

I really feel like Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire had the potential to be a charming and engaging RPG, but it falls short in many areas which keeps it from getting airborne. The clunky controls, repetitive gameplay and numerous tech issues make it a really frustrating experience rather than an enjoyable one. Don’t be tricked by the fantastic ‘Studio Ghibli’ visuals because sadly its all smoke and mirrors with this one; the visual design just isn’t enough to save this game.

Undisputed is a fantastic attempt to bring boxing back into the forefront of video games. The engaging career mode, realistic graphics, and well-executed in-ring action make it a strong contender in the otherwise quiet genre. For boxing enthusiasts who have been missing these games, Undisputed does a great job of bringing the thrill of the ‘sweet science’ to life. While I wish the roster had more current big names and the commentary was better; Undisputed still manages to stand tall as king of the ring for now.

Fear the Spotlight is a good first effort from the Blumhouse games initiative. It hits all the notes of a classic horror game with the hint of nostalgia for those of us who grew up with the 32-bit consoles. I am excited to see more and more of these drop over time and definitely recommend picking it up for a spooky weekend of fun during the holiday season.

As I said before, in the year of our Lord 2024 the fact that THIS is the G.I. Joe game that we get just feels bad. While G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra isnt a terrible game, its not a very fun one to interact with. From floaty combat to its subpar boss battles, I couldn’t help but think that this game was capable of so much more. Even with unlockable content to chase adding some replayability to the game, the real question is if gamers or even fans should bother playing this one at all.

I already loved this game on PS4 and now that IllFonic has been freed from the Sony exclusivity; Predator: Hunting Grounds for the Series X and PS5 feels like such an improvement over the original. With its upgraded visuals, enhanced performance and engaging gameplay, it offers an exciting experience to the asymmetrical genre. If you are a fan of the Predator franchise then this should already be on your list, but even if you just want a thrilling multiplayer shooter, Predator: Hunting Grounds is worth checking out.

It is a weird package that feels like it made decisions to feel different as opposed to making it a better experience. I loved the original game; I still feel it is the best Supermassive game of this type. This remake feels unnecessary and at times worse than what is already available on the PS5 patch. I am all for remakes and remasters when they give players a chance to check out games not available on that platform. Until Dawn Remake is neither of those things and in fact is a worse experience than the game already available.

Nightdive always delivers with their remakes, but Killing Time is special. This is a game that was largely ignored and eventually forgotten. Now it gets a second lease on life with a personal touch and care that it deserves. I highly recommend giving this game a chance. It feels familiar to classic shooters, while also delivering some of the most unique ideas of the time. I am so happy to see this game return and cannot wait for what other obscure FPS titles this team continues to deliver. Corridor 7 anyone?

Squirrel with a Gun is a wonderfully charming and hilarious game that offers a unique and engaging experience. The game’s humor and creativity make it a joy to play, and the variety of missions and customization options ensure a high level of replayability. While it has its share of flaws, such as its short length and floaty controls, the overall experience is well worth it for anyone looking for a fun and nutty adventure. (Pun intended)

Mechwarrior 5: Clans is a fantastic addition to the Mechwarrior lineage, offering a good mix of an engaging storytelling, deep customization options and some seriously satisfying mech combat. While the PC version has some technical issues and the overall game has a bit of a learning curve, the overall experience is well worth it for fans and newcomers alike. And the fact that Clans is hitting gamepass is sure to garner some new Battletech fans to the fold, which is great so we can get some new games form this legendary mech series.

Funko Fusion is a fun and nostalgic game that will appeal to fans of Funko Pop figurines and the franchises it represents. While it has its share of technical issues and repetitive gameplay, the colorful worlds, charming character designs, and humor make it an enjoyable experience. With the upcoming online play feature and regular updates, Funko Fusion has the potential to become even more engaging and entertaining in the future. The game’s ability to bring together different franchises into a single, cohesive universe is a testament to its creativity and charm. Whether you’re a fan of Scott Pilgram, Masters of the Universe, or any of the other franchises featured in the game, Funko Fusion offers a delightful and nostalgic journey that is sure to entertain and captivate players.

Starship Troopers: Extermination is an enjoyable game, but unless you plan on truly playing to follow its progress, I’d wait for the full release which hopefully also includes consoles.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remastered is a perfect way to return to the game that started it all. The quality-of-life changes make it feel fresh while still retaining the feel of the original. Fans of the original game will be pleased with this remaster and newcomers will be able to get into it without the hurdles the original came with. I hope Capcom continues to bring back their classic games. Now is the time Capcom, Dino Crisis, make it happen.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World is such a surprise. It borrows heavily from its contemporaries, but adds enough to make it feel like more than just a clone. You can tell the developers knew what they wanted to achieve and simply nailed it. I will be paying close attention to their next game for sure. Anyone who enjoys titles like Donkey Kong Country or Crash Bandicoot owes it to themselves to check this out. The price is friendly, and the execution is outstanding. One of the better new platformers I have played in a while.

This package is a ‘your mileage may vary’ situation. The new characters are great additions, the story is a decent three-hour romp, but my favorite parts were the Animalities and new modes such as the return of the Towers of Time. Sadly the grind has not been addressed. It takes way too long to get to the good stuff. The monetization is still ridiculous and what is with the main menu taking forever to verify my license to play Invasions? These are the kinds of things I would love to see. MK1 could have been one of the best entries of the franchise, but it keeps getting uppercutted by its shortcomings.

This game should have been a slam dunk (pun intended) when it comes to having fun. I adore Looney Tunes and all the sports here have several templates to mimic. Somehow they made just about every single one worse than its counterparts. It is almost impressive how off some of these feel. I wanted to love this game, and just came away so disappointed. I do not recommend picking this one up, even on a deep sale.