Shadow of the Tomb Raider delivers and it does it with perfection. It's one of those games that successfully borders on an interactive film experience that really makes you feel like you are part of something big. The narrative goes hand in hand with the gameplay and when added to the gorgeous element of 4K, Shadow of the Tomb Raider is a real treat to play and although I've finished the game, I'm eager to return and complete those challenges and of course find those hidden artifacts.
The World Ends with You: Final Remix on the Nintendo Switch is an interesting game and although I had fun playing it, the title did feel a little dated when compared to other titles on this console. Personally, I would have fine-tuned the combat a little better on the Nintendo Switch and I know that the developers were being innovative but the touch screen and the Joy-Con felt a little limited into what you can and can't achieve. Nonetheless, The World Ends with You: Final Remix is an interesting yet enjoyable JRPG experience on this console, although a little lacking.
Wow… Red Dead Redemption 2 lives up to everything and more with what Rockstar Games have promised.
Minecraft Dungeons is the perfect distraction and while it doesn't offer much in terms of originality, it's an enjoyable block… err… hack 'n slash game set the wonderful backdrop of Minecraft in this family friendly version of Diablo with good gameplay, graphics and audio to help get you lost in pure entertainment. It's also a game that is played better with friends so if you need some mindless entertainment, check out Minecraft Dungeons!
The Last of Us Part II is finally here and if you're a fan of the original, the next chapter of the game is even more moving and riveting. For newcomers, it will make you want to play the original and best of all, there is a remastered version available. The Last of Us Part II is also quite a well-crafted game from start to finish and whether its the perfect graphics, the clever world-building elements or the moving and powerful narrative, it all comes together and really makes you invested in the next chapter of Ellie.
PGA Tour 2K21 is almost a hole in one on the PlayStation 4 and is definitely one of the best golfing games in years! Kudos to the developers and 2K for creating something fun, addictive and quite memorable!
Dirt 5 is a well-made racing experience that looks and runs like a dream on the new next-gen console, the Xbox Series X! So what are you waiting for? Get your motor running!
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!
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.
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.
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!).
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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
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.
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!
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!