Star Ocean: The Second Story R is an example of how remaking a classic game should be done. From the overhauled graphics to additional quality-of-life improvements that can make the frantic battle system even more enjoyable, Star Ocean: The Second Story R takes the best game in the series and makes it even better. Gemdrops could have just increased the resolution and called it a day, but instead put in the effort to make a truly worthwhile remake of a classic. This remade version is a must play for Star Ocean veterans, but would also serve as a good entry point for RPG fans who haven't got around to this series.
Super Mario RPG was one of the best titles of its era, and based on the Switch remake, is just as good today. The remade graphics maintain all the charm of the original while transforming a decades-old game into one of the better-looking titles on Switch. The quality-of-life improvements such as splash damage from timed hits are fun additions, though some may criticize that this makes a game with a rather low challenge level even easier. Aside from those additions talked about earlier, this is the same game players loved back in 1996 with a fresh coat of paint. Super Mario RPG succeeds at invoking feelings of nostalgia for the 16-bit era while looking good enough to pass for a modern game. It's short and simple compared to many RPGs, but while the time with it may brief, there are no wasted hours.
RoboCop: Rogue City is easily the best RoboCop game to date.
Ghostrunner 2 is a high-speed adventure that combines punishing difficulty with satisfying rewards. The challenge level is on the higher side, but victory never seems out of reach. Due to the generous checkpoint system it's easy to stay motivated to keep pushing oneself through each checkpoint, which can lead to some play sessions lasting longer than intended. While this feedback loop can keep the player going for a while, it can't sustain enjoyable gameplay indefinitely. It can be thrilling for a few hours, but the charm is likely to wear off after a while for most players. Ghostrunner 2 does succeed in what it set out to do which is create a challenging, fast-paced action game that can make the player feel like an invincible ninja, but the end product is something that would only really appeal to gamers seeking out this specific type of experience.
For better or worse, Gargoyles Remastered remains a product of its time.
Sonic Superstars shines brightest when it's sticking to what made the Genesis titles so successful.
Assassin's Creed Mirage is a triumphant return to the style of the original Assassin's Creed games.
Counter-Strike 2 is a mostly positive update to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. The enhanced visuals that range from improved textures to lighting and particle effects help bring the graphics up to date while keeping the required specs low enough where the experience isn't limited to those with super expensive gaming rigs.
Infinity Strash: Dragon Quest The Adventures of Dai is an interesting idea in bringing the anime to video game form that falls short in execution.
Fate/Samurai Remnant is an enjoyable entry in the Fate universe.
Cyberpunk 2077 had an unfortunate launch and as a result there are many who have written off a game that should have been remembered as being one of the top games of 2020.
The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails might show its age, but can still be a good time.
Drawing heavily from classic RPGs of past console generations, Sea of Stars creates an exciting new adventure that's also a worthy tribute to the classics.
Blasphemous 2 has earned its place as one of the great metroidvanias.
Baldur's Gate III had extremely high expectations set for it and has exceeded them.
Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons blends experimental elements with traditional Double Dragon gameplay.
Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening is a worthy entry in the forty-year-old franchise.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom checks all the boxes of what players would want from their annual expansion and then some.
Based on the franchise's history, Diablo IV has large boots to fill, but does an admiral job of meeting this longtime fan's expectations.
Dead Island 2 is a gory adventure that offers up plenty of mindless mayhem for zombie slayers.