Dynasty Warriors 3 is a cult classic that defined the Musou genre, and remastering it for the modern era was a huge risk for Koei. Change too little, and the game feels like an ancient, clunky relic; change too much, and you lose the identity that made the game foundational for the genre. The gorgeous visuals provided by Unreal Engine 5 and the refined mechanics pulled from Dynasty Warriors: Origins bring Dynasty Warriors 3 into the current generation, while the original maps, iconic outfits, and campy voice acting keep the nostalgia intact from the PS2. Excluding Origins itself, this was the most fun that I’ve had with the series, and I am so happy to see it back in all of its glory.
Dynasty Warriors has always focused on Shu, Wu, Wei, and Jin, but the "Other" factions have always been my favorite. For two decades, I have waited for the chance to join the campaign alongside Zhang Jiao, Dong Zhuo, Yuan Shao, and Lu Bu. Visions of Four Heroes finally gives these characters their own stories, and the "what if" scenarios actually deliver. Omega Force also threw in three new companions, the Bow and Rope Dart as new weapons, and a Training Ground mode that should have been in the base game from the start. At $34.99, this is worth it. If you already love Origins, just buy it.
Digimon Story Time Stranger is the boldest entry in the franchise to date, delivering a thrilling narrative, stunning environments, and over 450 Digimon to collect. Its deep combat system, expansive quality-of-life improvements, and superb English voice acting elevate it alongside the best RPGs of the year. Minor issues aside, this is the definitive Digimon experience fans have been waiting for.
Killing Floor 3 is an impressively fun time that may very well be the best zombie game since Left 4 Dead 2. With great gunplay, unique classes, and the impressive M.E.A.T. 2 system, this is a game you can count on being a great time. However, the lack of randomization and story elements prevents it from reaching the heights it could in the genre. Still, Killing Floor 3 is an easy recommendation, as the core experience is just that good.