Killer Instinct is shaping up well and that's the problem – this isn't a full game by any stretch of the imagination. Still, what is here shows that Double Helix will likely do the series proud with an update that is at once reverential and forward-thinking.
There is no doubt that the driving mechanics of Rivals are fantastic, and most of the game's systems are a success. However, it's a multiplayer-oriented game that fails to bring players together, and the content elsewhere is merely good.
Shadow Fall's multiplayer singlehandedly makes it a worthwhile purchase. A couple of things keep the mode from being truly great, but given the state of the competition this year, Killzone's multiplayer deserves to carve a wider niche.
The first multiplatform release from Tarsier is a taut grim fairytale of a puzzle-platformer that's perfect to explore on a rainy afternoon.
Loot Rascals is a unique roguelike whose bright and breezy presentation contrasts nicely with its intricate systems and ferocious difficulty.
Dirt 4's casual-friendly additions subdue its handling model, but it's a great racer regardless – especially for those that struggle to stay on the track in Dirt Rally.
Unlike its top-down forefather, it's bland, slow, ugly, and may invoke nausea in some. The head aiming system works well at least, but overall it's the definition of unnecessary.
Headmaster is a hands-free tech demo stretched into a game, but it's intuitive, highly accessible, and bloody good.
Like most other VR games, Rush of Blood is let down by the somewhat flaky tracking of your choice of controller, but it's still a gem (and another great one to inflict on others while you kick back and laugh).
Arkham VR is short and pretty simple. However, for a shade over 30 bucks, it's probably still worth it, particularly if you need an impressive looking and accessible title with which to impress your friends.
Enter the Gungeon is a terrific roguelike shooter whose sense of humour and exacting design make for tricky bullet-slaying fun both alone or with a friend.
Mass Effect: Andromeda is a paradox: it's both disappointing and excellent. A mammoth title, it delivers tons of great content, but hamstrings itself with a poor first few hours, a few horrible systems, and some uninspired scenarios. Even so, it's pretty great!
Episode 2: The Lost Lords represents a significant improvement in both the writing and production departments at Telltale.
A tendency to crash every now and then aside, Apotheon is a shining example of the Castlevania genre.
Ultimate Edition proves what an outstanding game Gears of War was and is. It's a meticulously-crafted remake, and the online modes are exemplary. Even if you've played the original, it's well worth a look.
With its extensive licenses, bold and complex yet accessible gameplay, unparalleled online offerings, excellent tutorials, and clean presentation, FIFA 14 may only be a small step up from last year's game, but it remains a fantastic offering overall.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition's enhancements are cosmetic-only so the flaws present in the game's last-gen version are still present. Even so, it's a great game made greater, so for those yet to play it, this is the version to get.
Second Son's sky-high production values do most of the heavy lifting, but beneath the flash are solid systems and a well-acted story that's easy to recommend to franchise fans and newcomers alike.
Marred only by some barely-sentient AI, The New Order is 16-odd hours of beautiful destruction, and the characters get a look in as well. Recommended.
NBA 2K15 is an astounding title full of modes that should see hoop heads playing compulsively until the next one in a year's time.