Like on the PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, I seriously enjoyed my time (and still am) in the world of Dragon Age: The Veilguard and it is easily in my top three games of 2024. BioWare has done a wonderful job at revisiting this franchise from its engaging narrative, realistic characters and gameplay that takes RPG to a whole new realm. Best of all, it works extremely well on the Steam Deck with its next-gen graphics and superb audio.
Princess Peach Showtime is a nice break away from our favourite plumber and his brother and while I enjoyed this as an older gamer, it definitely does have a more younger gamer appeal. Even so, it's quite a clever premise and if you're looking for something a little different, check out the demo via the Nintendo store and if you like it, Princess Peach Showtime might be the fun you're looking for.
Starfield is a game that needs time and I do mean time. Without time, you cannot do the game justice due to the complex story pathways and exploration mechanics. While the game mechanics are sturdy, there are definitely parallels to Skyrim, however it's solely a sci-fi experience that fortunately works well with the Creation Engine that was used to build the Bethesda titles of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 76.
I really enjoyed the narrative and gameplay behind The Planet of Lana with Wishfully successfully drawing me into this wondrous yet dangerous alien world with its characters and story. As a result, you immediately relate to the young protagonist and equally heroic alien catlike creature who works in union with you to achieve your goals. Sure, there are some elements of frustration to be found along the way, particularly when you mistime a puzzle, become electrocuted by one of the invaders or fall to your death but thankfully respawn points are well placed and the only person to blame for these mistakes is you. So if you love thinking platformers with an equally beautiful story, then look no further because The Planet of Lana not only delivers but leaves you craving for more.
Peppa Pig World Adventures on the Xbox Series is a fun game for younger gamers and is the perfect match if they love the TV series Peppa Pig. All in all, it successfully creates an interactive Peppa Pig experience with basic gaming mechanics.
DC's Justice League Cosmic Chaos is a game that younger gamers will enjoy, even geeky pop culture fans like myself. You can tell that the developers have an affinity of DC Comics, particularly with all the Easter Eggs and weird subtle references that are littered through Happy Harbor. All in all, a sturdy gaming engine with strong controls and well-crafted story featuring the amusing Mxyzptlk and three of the Justice League's most powerful heroes, Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman. It's just a shame that there is no campaign co-op but nonetheless, it works well as a single-player game.
In the end Gigantosaurus Dino Kart ticks all the right boxes for a game aimed at younger players. Not only is it well presented but it plays quite well on the Xbox Series X and more importantly is a great local multiplayer experience.
Although not the worst movie tie-in-game, DC League of Super-Pets The Adventures of Krypto and Ace does have its moments that again is for that younger gamer. Nonetheless, a canine distraction of not-quite super-heroic proportions!
LEGO Brawls is simple fun that is best played together locally. Kids will enjoy the LEGO themed characters and environments (Ninjago, Monkie Kid, Jurassic World, Pirate, Western, Vidiyo, Hidden Side, Space, Castle, Alien Conquest) as they battle each other to victory via brick brawling!
While My Little Pony: A Maretime Bay Adventure is a relatively short game, it's the perfect length for younger gamers and as mentioned my four and a half year daughter finished the game in just a few sessions which was a proud dad gaming moment, however was eager to start it all again! The highlight of this game is that it doesn't feel like a classic cash grab of a franchise, rather, successfully creates a game for younger gamers with lots of exploration, interaction and fun gaming moments.
Kao the Kangaroo is a fun jump through memory lane that delivers an enjoyable (albeit slightly repetative) experience in classic arcade 3D platforming fashion. However the character, graphics and worlds lends itself
The timing of Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection is perfect as Sony (kudos to their PR) are also releasing their live action adaption of Uncharted on 17-Feb-2022 which stars Tom Holland as Nathan Drake and Mark Wahlberg as Sully… and for a limited time, you can redeem a free ticket for the film if you submit your claim between 28-Jan to 4-Feb 2022. So before watching the movie, it's time to revisit these games again or for the first time on the PlayStation 5 as you get thrown into the action. And although multiplayer has been removed, this is still one of the best darn single-player games around!
If you're seeking something classic or want to travel back in time to a simpler area of gaming, then this collection is for you. While I had great fun revisiting these and even finishing them as I could never complete Lion King or Jungle Book in the day, the tweaks definitely allowed for this. However I have been spoiled for gaming since then and the gameplay does become repetitive but still a fun experience that is like the virtual coffee book of gaming.
Halo Infinite on the Xbox Series X is classic Halo fun that has received a true next-gen makeover that really upgrades our favourite Spartan, the Master Chief himself!
Kudos to developers Outright Games for bringing Peppa into the world gaming who perfectly bring this franchise to life on this medium. It also encourages exploration, some trial and error but rest assured, it never becomes too difficult and is more about the world of our favourite piglet plus interacting with it. So if you have a younger gamer who loves Peppa, then check out My Friend Peppa Pig The Video Game!
Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy aims high and hits the target perfectly by delivering a thoroughly enjoyable single-player action RPG as you control Star Lord and his his motley alien crew while kicking a** along the way.
I could keep going on and on about this for ages… but I need to stop somewhere. With a strong starting point in terms of aircraft to use and the fact that you can fly to/from anywhere in the world plus regular updates and more content, I really can't recommend this enough to fans of flight! Visually stunning and a challenge if you want it to be, or a reasonably calm flight of fancy if you want that, Microsoft Flight Simulator Xbox Series X is a true accomplishment on this next-gen console and a game that you will continue coming back to, even years later that can be played as a enjoyable joy flight or a challenge as you attempt to land a passenger plane at night and with bad weather. But enough from me… I need to get back in the cockpit and enjoy the sights of the world (if we can't get out there in reality at the moment… this is arguably the next best thing!).
Within the Blade on the PS5 takes a classic arcade sidescroller and morphs in into something slightly modern from RPG to crafting (over 200 items) and old school combat mechanics, including a plethora of different weapons plus clever stealth mechanics. Like the games of yesteryear, you'll be overjoyed at times and totally annoyed when you continue dying so expect some controller rage … especially if you play it in permadeath mode.
From the very first level to the very last, Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart is a true gaming treat that I thoroughly enjoyed and it was like being a Rollercoaster ride between dimensions. It delivered an almost flawless gaming experience that boasts next-gen visuals and mechanics plus an over the top and light-hearted story with two equally entertaining and engaging protagonists, Ratchet and Rivet. So if you're looking for that true next-gen exclusive on the PlayStation 5, Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart is indeed that game that makes it my first must play title of 2021.
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is indeed the must have title for the PlayStation 5 that successfully brings this character to life on this next-gen console with some stunning graphics and flawless gameplay. Just like a comic but better as you're the star!