Zero Company doesn't reinvent tactical RPGs but the combination of excellent combat, a lovable crew and an uniquely authentic Star Wars story makes this an easy recommendation for fans of both. It carries over some of XCOM's rougher edges along with its best ideas, but when it comes together, it really sings.
Moonlighter 2 takes one of gaming’s most satisfying gameplay loops and somehow makes it even better. It’s a prettier, deeper, more emotionally resonant game than the already excellent original, and is a must-play for all roguelike fans.
The Blood of Dawnwalker feels like a visitor from an alternate universe, where all of the energy, creativity, and craftsmanship we associate with The Witcher instead went into the creation of this weird, unique vampire tale. Despite the obvious Witcher influences, it feels unlike anything else I’ve played, and is easily one of the year’s finest RPGs.
Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition is an excellent port of an all-time great game. It may not be the definitive technical version of Elden Ring, but it is remarkably close to the original experience and being able to take the Lands Between anywhere makes it an easy recommendation.
Mortal Shell 2 is a remarkable sequel that takes the Soulslike formula apart and rebuilds it on its own terms, while doubling down on its strange goth-metal aesthetic. It is occasionally uneven, but the ambition, combat and sheer personality make Mortal Shell 2 one of the most exciting RPGs of the year.
Ascend to ZERO elevates a familiar roguelike formula with an ingenious time-manipulation mechanic that influences every decision you make. While it stumbles slightly with pacing and long-term variety, its clever core gameplay and addictive progression make it one of the more memorable action roguelikes in recent years.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok is an excellent expansion that prioritises what the base game already excelled at: spectacular combat, satisfying progression, and addictive replayability. It's an easy recommendation for anyone who loved Relink and thrives on a good action RPG grind.
Echoes of Aincrad is a well-realised RPG about the people behind the avatars. While repetitive exploration and awkward world design hold it back, its excellent characters, satisfying combat, and genuine love for MMORPG culture make it the strongest Sword Art Online game yet,and an enjoyable action RPG even for people who don't care for the anime.
Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced is a confident modernization of one of Ubisoft's most beloved adventures. Even without the nostalgia factor, it stands on its own as a gorgeous, endlessly enjoyable pirate epic whose thrilling ship battles, expressive combat, and infectious sense of adventure make it one of the year's most entertaining games.
Gothic 1 Remake is a successful resurrection of a cult classic that refuses to sand off its rough edges. Those willing to meet the gameon its own terms will find a deeply immersive RPG with a distinct identity.
Tales of Arise remains one of the best modern entries in Bandai Namco's long-running RPG series and the Nintendo Switch 2 version successfully brings that experience to a portable format.
Thick as Thieves is a small but stylish stealth experience that punches above its weight thanks to excellent level design, immersive sim sensibilities, and a fantastic atmosphere. It’s polished, clever, and extremely fun – especially with a friend in co-op.
Forza Horizon 6 is not the reinvention this 14 year old series is desperately calling for, but it is the most refined rendition of the series formula yet, which is still worth celebrating.
Between its tight, satisfying story campaign, two new classes, sweeping skill tree changes, as well as a deep and enriched endgame has left Diablo IV in the finest shape it has ever been. If you, like me, were itching for a new excuse to dive back into this meat grinder of divine sadness, Lord of Hatred will give you all of that and then some.
Small in scope but big in ideas and production value, Pragmata features tense, hack-and-shoot gameplay that shouldn't be missed.
With a great story, an improved battle system, a thoroughly compelling gameplay loop, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection finally fulfills the promise of a more character-focused Monster Hunter game, and is a must-play for all fans of the series.