LEGO Horizon Adventures won't do much for anyone who doesn't like the LEGO formula, while also being let down by bland level design and an average hub world, it's still worth an adventure through.
Metal Slug Tactics is a solid tactical strategy roguelite that does a lot right. The battles are mainly fun, with characters that all feel different and a gorgeous art style. It adapts the roguelite elements well, making each run feel different depending on the characters, weapon loadouts, encounters, and areas that players move through. While not every encounter is as fun as the next, it takes the Metal Slug series in a fun new direction.
Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a spectacular RPG. Its story is massive and expansive, leaping across time frequently. The combat is tight and satisfying, with plenty of freedom for exploration.. Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is one of the best RPGs of 2024 and should not be missed.
Sonic X Shadow Generations is a fun, albeit mixed experience. The Sonic side of the game remains as fun and creative as its original release. Shadow’s story has some fantastic level design, and any opportunity to play as the angsty antihero is a welcome one.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is a fantastic experience, built on the foundation set by Persona but becoming something all of its own. The story is great, the characters are interesting, and a brand-new combat system delivers one of the most exciting games this year.
Athena Crisis is a great strategy game. It features fantastic combat and tight-level design, bolstered by a level and campaign editor.
Tactical Breach Wizards is a standout strategy game imbued with a ton of personality in its writing and characters, excellent combat, and a constantly exciting thrill ride.
I Am Your Beast is a fantastic action game, one that really hones in on speed, adaptability, and efficiency. Memorizing levels and finding creative ways through them is a necessity for top times.
Sumerian Six is an excellent strategy stealth title with creative combat kits, a solid story, and excellent gameplay.
Crypt Custodian is a charming and cozy Metroidvania with fluid combat, an adorable cast of characters, and beautiful visuals.
Dungeons of Hinterberg is a fantastic adventure with an addicting gameplay loop based on exploration and wonder, tight combat, and an exciting cast of characters to interact with.
EVILVEVIL is a solid throwback to the days of Left4Dead, with great action and distinct characters. However, its progression and narrative let it down. Solo players will find a lot to enjoy here, but co-op is where the title shines.
SCHiM is unlike any platformer I've ever played, telling a genuinely moving story, with tight and clever platforming. It's also gorgeous, as every level is beautifully put together.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is another hit in the beloved series, delivering a darker narrative, revamped combat, and an excellent cast of characters. It has a ton to offer to both new players and existing fans of the series.
#BLUD is one that can’t be missed. For any cartoon fans, there’s so much to love here.
Heading Out is a fantastic, immersive driving game mixed with a visual novel, thoughtful story pieces, and great gameplay.
Stellar Blade is a fantastic addition to the PlayStation-exclusive library. The combat is slick and fun, the story deep and interesting, and the set pieces all bigger than the last. It's obvious why Sony scooped this one up, fitting into its story-rich third-party pedigree of titles.
Children of the Sun is one of my favorite games this year. It makes you feel like a badass as you guide the bullet as it soars through each level.
Ultimately, Rise of the Ronin will be a mixed bag for people. The combat will carry it for many, but the lack of variety in the open world, messy story, and performance issues will take away from others.
The gunplay is fantastic, the gameplay loop is satisfying, and the reward progression is consistent. Its live service plans are its biggest question moving forward, but right now, Helldivers 2 is a ton of fun.