Spencer Campbell
A tough-as-nails tactical challenge is hard to find in today's console market, and Anomaly 2 will probably be enough to scratch your strategical itch. Without a strong multiplayer community behind it though, I would say skip the PS4 release and head straight for PC if you have the means.
Firefall is a massively-mixed bag. The game is at its best when it forces players to frantically shoot their way through swarms of enemies while protecting an objective, but the fun found in these missions wears off when repeated over and over. I think there are a few hours of genuine pleasure to be found in Firefall, but beyond that I think it's hard to recommend it to anyone, unless they're just a diehard fan of MMO tropes.
A Realm Reborn fits well into the scene of MMORPG's today while still retaining its identity as a Final Fantasy entry. Even so, while it does have a few genuinely novel features, it fails to add much to an already stagnant genre. If you like MMO's and are looking for that next fix, then I suggest A Realm Reborn over its competitors, but if you have the means, then I'd say you should pick up the PC version of the game.
Strike Vector is a game with great ideas, and really breathes some life into a dying genre. The game's challenge may be a bit too much for casual players, but if you're looking to scratch that aerial shooter itch with a frantic edge, then take to the skies — but don't expect to live long.
If you're looking for a simplistic zen-like experience in a game, look no further than flOw. Simple controls and the itch to explore will keep you entertained for hours, and with the game supporting Cross-Buy play, allowing you to play it on PS3, PS4, and Vita, flOw is definitely worth having in your library.
Problems aside, Tiny Brains is an undeniably enjoyable experience. While it may not amaze you, it'll definitely be worth your time if you and a few friends are looking to have a go at a co-op puzzle experience that isn't extremely demanding.
Angry Birds Star Wars is a shameless 50 dollar repackaging of a 99 cent iPhone game. There's little to nothing added in the console release. The only person I can see this appealing to is an Angry Birds fan whose level of obsession gets into the clinically problematic spectrum. Do yourself a favor and either skip this one, or if you absolutely must get your Angry Birds fix, then find a way to play it on iOS.
Need for Speed Rivals is a great entry in the series and a huge improvement from Most Wanted and Hot Pursuit. AllDrive brings multiplayer to a new level, and the experience sets the bar for all racing games from now on. That said, since AllDrive is so important to the overall experience, multiplayer gamers will likely get a lot more out of it than those who play alone. But, if you're looking for a racing game that's rewarding, fun, and visually impressive, then Need for Speed Rivals is the game for you.