Daniel Bloodworth
Technical frustrations aside, we're glad that this piece of gaming history is finally back for anyone to try. With its oddly imaginative world and characters brimming with personality, Grim Fandango is absolutely worth this second lease on life.
And that's where Octodad really shines. It keeps you laughing with the sheer absurdity of its lead character, the not-so-subtle references, and fumbling physical comedy that's made all the more potent through your participation. Like a plate of sushi, it might seem a bit pricey for what you get, but it's worth paying a small premium for a fresh catch.
Perhaps one of the biggest surprises is that Grow Home only costs eight dollars, which is a bargain for such an intriguing and inventive little game. Whether you're spending your time scrambling to out-of-reach grottos, enjoying the view from your glider, or harassing the sheep, Grow Home is well worth the climb.
Tembo: The Badass Elephant may be a bit short and straightforward, but the gameplay is solid and the destruction is satisfying. Game Freak has played to their strengths and designed a character that feels immediately iconic. We hope to see more from Tembo in the future as this powerful pachyderm is popping with potential.
Axiom Verge isn't the best in its class, but it takes a familiar structure and adds a tool belt loaded with interesting weapons and gadgets. It's a worthwhile adventure that entices you to unearth its secrets and rewards you for doing so.
Assassin's Creed Syndicate makes some strides forward with more substantial side quests and interesting story missions, even if the plot itself doesn't really go anywhere. Exploring this recreation of London is a marvel, but the repetitive cycle of taking territory and gathering pointless collectibles quickly wears thin, while gameplay pillars in stealth and combat still feel lacking. It's the most modern Assassin's Creed has been, but the Industrial Revolution doesn't quite bring the series into a new age.