As the self-proclaimed torchbearer of one of the industry’s cult classics, Code Violet fails to meet the standards or even do a decent job of representing the action horror survival genre. Its weak gunplay, baffling art direction, rough animations, and even more confusing plot serve as a reminder that maybe some things should be left untouched.
The Switch 2 version of Skyrim shows that the old dog can both look good and learn new tricks, as the graphical upgrades and Switch 2 exclusive controls do improve on the original Switch experience. However, it doesn’t make full use of the Switch 2’s capabilities on the performance end, as it has constant issues with unstable frametime and input lag, making it another port with wasted potential.
Hollow Knight is the quintessential Metroidvania out there, with stylish and quirky visuals, memorable music, and a gameplay loop that meshes all the elements that make the genre great. While its inherent difficulty and lack of guidance can prove to stall one's playthrough, it's a game that's absolutely worth playing, regardless of whether you're interested in the genre or not.
Terminator 2D: NO FATE has stunning 16-bit visuals, a banger soundtrack, and simple yet fun gameplay that makes it one of the better games in the franchise in showcasing how good the franchise is. However, the extremely short runtime and conditional replayability make it an experience that doesn’t match the price it’s asking for.
FEROCIOUS is what I'd call a perfect example of getting the vibe right. While the gameplay leave a lot to be desired, the compelling slow-burn, decent gunplay, and cheap price point makes it a very surprising game to sink your teeth in.
MARVEL Cosmic Invasion isn’t quite the blockbuster-level beat 'em up game that rivals the likes of Street of Rage 4 and TMNT: Shredder's Revenge. It has clear flaws in its progression systems and stage design, but it's undeniable that it's presentation is top-notch, it has good variety in its characters, and is fun and simple enough for everyone to play.
Of Ash and Steel is a classic tale of a zero-to-hero journey that's willing to show off its flaws, intentionally and unintentionally. It's the type of game that's built for a particular audience, one that revels in relishing the masochistic nature of old-school RPGs.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition's Switch 2 port is great, especially since being able to play it on the go at 60 FPS and at a higher resolution is a dream come true. However, it could've been the perfect version had it used more of the Switch 2's capabilities.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is a refinement of what's already to be expected, crisp gunplay and fun multiplayer content. Outside of that, it loses its luster. The campaign alone singlehandedly sours the experience, with the narrative going so far off the rails that it unintentionally becomes a parody of a different game.
Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road is a game that's been a longtime coming, and one that deserves praise for how much content they're able to cram into a game. With a memorable storyline fitting of the franchise, breathtaking visuals, iconic music tracks, and engaging football simulation, it's the definitive game of the franchise and one that'll last for years to come.
Sonic Rumble is a fun way to waste time, if you look past the borderline criminal microtransaction costs and annoying monetization practices. The game doesn't offer any depth and is more of a bastardized version of what a Sonic game is to turn it into a party battle royale.
DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake is the best way to experience the first two games of the historic franchise. With its stunning presentation, additional content, gameplay changes, and well-written worldbuilding narrative points, it's a package deal that won't disappoint those who want to get into the series or fans of the original.
Painkiller could be considered the median of all co-op shooters. It offers mindless running and gunning but doesn't go any farther than that. With equal good points and bad points, it's simply a game that doesn't offer anything new to the table.
NINJA GAIDEN 4 is a sharp comeback of a series that was overdue for over a decade. One that brandishes its unique brand of violence with style and proper function. With a gameplay loop that leaves you hooked and a multitude of content to replay, it's clear-cut proof that the beloved hack-and-slash franchise is here to stay. If you approach it not expecting a deep or even particularly well-crafted narrative, you'll have an amazing time.
Battlefield 6 is more of a step in the right direction back to greatness than a complete return to form. Nevertheless, the changes made to key gameplay elements have made it more enjoyable than its competitors.
Mai: Child of Ages has a great concept but multiple small flaws add up to a less than memorable experience. Despite the wonderful music and the great contrasting presentation, the repetitive puzzles, clunky combat, and technical issues just don't make for a good time.
Ghost of Yotei is a sequel that serves as an upgrade to almost everything the first game had to offer. With its stunning presentation, great open-world design, and open-ended story progression, it's one of the better open-world games 2025 has to offer.
Baby Steps can be considered as Bennett Foddy and company’s best work to date. With the use of physics-based platforming and gameplay mechanics combined with unhinged adult humor, the game is a weird fever dream built on overcoming failure one tiny step at a time.
Dying Light: The Beast feels like the proper sequel fans have been waiting for all this time. While the new additions aren't amazing, the established facets of the game have been improved, making it a return to form.
Borderlands 4 seeks to right the wrongs by simply upgrading everything the previous installment offered. However, the performance issues and bugs affect the overall experience, preventing the game from being the best version of itself.