Aether & Iron looks like it will be a very big and unique RPG. Its story-driven decisions, innovative vehicle combat, and dice-based decision-making make for an experience that feels both new and well thought out.
Trash Goblin is a fun mix of running a shop, making things, and solving simple puzzles. Even though it's still in Early Access and needs some work on inventory management, tracking, and contact accuracy, it's already a very fun and stress-free experience.
John Carpenter's Toxic Commando is a good, if not perfect, addition to Saber Interactive's collection of cooperative shooters. It has fast-paced, vehicle-based combat that keeps each mission interesting. The story and characters aren't very good, but the gameplay loop of managing waves of zombies, upgrading weapons, coordinating powers, and exploring open environments keeps you coming back.
Esoteric Ebb is one of the few games that manages to combine tabletop role-playing, story-driven CRPG mechanics, and player choice into a single, enjoyable experience.
One of the biggest strengths of Disciples: Domination is how it handles choices and consequences. Your decisions as a ruler matter. Supporting one faction may damage another relationship. Ignoring problems can lead to long-term issues. Solving grievances costs resources and sometimes reputation.
Out of Time is a paradox. It is at once inventive and derivative, fresh yet familiar. Its hybrid DNA pulls from roguelites, MMOs, and auto-shooters, creating a cocktail that feels distinct even as its ingredients are recognizable. The tether system is genuinely innovative, redefining teamwork in ways few roguelites attempt. The gear-driven ability system encourages experimentation, and the fifteen-minute run cap nails the cadence of replayability.
Dying Light: The Beast is undoubtedly worth buying when you consider that you're more likely to enjoy and appreciate the gameplay for how it was intended. The adrenaline rush that you get from beating up zombies and sprinting around the world doing parkour can definitely outweigh its flaws.
Lies of P: Overture is a great expansion that doesn’t necessarily change the narrative of an already beautiful story. It has great fundamentals, and it emphasizes them, adding details to the already great game. If you’ve already finished the original game, it might feel the same to you with just the added lore, but if you’re coming back from a hiatus, then you have zero reasons to be disappointed if you already love the game on your first playthrough.
Elden Ring Nightreign is definitely a game that is hard to get wrong, considering it's based on a solid foundation of Elden Ring. Given the huge expectations set by FromSoftware's reputation, I can see how many would consider the game imperfect, but it definitely delivers when it comes to giving you a fun experience.
RoadCraft delivers a satisfying simulation experience, combining problem-solving with an impressive variety of heavy machinery. Though it has a clunky UI and repetitive missions, its engaging gameplay makes RoadCraft a really enjoyable experience, especially when you pair it with the multiplayer support.
For what it's worth, King Arthur: Legion IX is a great deal. Originally planned as a DLC for Knight's Tale, it evolved into a standalone game, and I could see that being a smart decision. If you enjoy turn-based strategy games like XCOM, Rogue Trader, or Baldur's Gate 3, this title is worth trying.
DOOM: The Dark Ages is a bold and thrilling addition to the franchise that I loved playing. It brings in mechanics I've seen from other games and implements them to a tee without losing what makes DOOM great. It looks amazing, sounds wonderful, and, most importantly, plays like a DOOM game is supposed to.
No Rest for the Wicked is still in the early days of the update, but it tells you a lot about the developers, specifically how they listen to player feedback and how they are committed to improving the experience—a sight we all love to see. If you've been on the fence about the game or haven't really been in the loop since launch, now is the perfect time to step back in the pool to see what's new and what resonates with you.
While Steel Seed's story and character depth do fall short, its impressive presentation makes it a worthwhile indie experience; just manage your expectations. It's not perfect by any means, especially if you're looking for a narrative-driven game.
Koira is a visually gorgeous and emotionally gripping experience with unique musical puzzles and a moving story. Despite its brief length, fans of casual, story-driven adventures will cherish the experience for its relaxing gameplay.
The First Berserker: Khazan truly delivers, and it gives you solid action. Its RPG experience outshines many of its closest competitors. I would say it's up there with Lies of P; although some would argue that its narrative holds it back, I think it's a combat mix-up for it, especially if it's the difficulty aspect that you're after.
AI LIMIT delivers a fresh, accessible take on the souls-like genre with fluid combat and creative mechanics, though its lack of challenge and repetitive environments hold it back. A solid choice for newcomers, but veterans may find it too forgiving.
Despite some of the narrative shortcomings, Assassin's Creed Shadows is one of the standouts of the year that offers a deep, engaging, and visually stunning experience, making it one of the games to get if you're looking into getting into this franchise or even if you are a long-time series fan.
WWE 2K25 refines its core gameplay with improved stamina mechanics and engaging match types like Bloodline Rules but plays it too safe. While enjoyable, its outdated animations and monetization issues hold it back from being a true evolution.
Monster Hunter Wilds is a worthy addition to the franchise that blends the best elements of its predecessors and perfects them. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or someone who is just getting into the series, Wilds offers a rich immersive experience that is hard to put down.