Richard Seagrave
Consisting of remakes of the first two games in the series, Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake is a somewhat simpler experience than Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake. You play the first game with just one party member, for example. It's a charming package, though, with Dragon Quest 2 being a highlight, but both titles still might feel a little too archaic in ways for some.
With it being a co-op shooter, series fans aren't likely to get on with this new Painkiller unless they approach it with an open mind. And indeed, while it's nothing special, slaughtering demons with friends while amassing an arsenal of upgraded and customised weapons can be good fun.
Double Dragon is back, and it looks better than ever. Good looks and more freedom when it comes to movement doesn't translate to a game that's more fun to play, however, with the combat of Double Dragon Revive feeling rather clunky. And so, while it isn't a bad game by any means, it's simply not as enjoyable as it should be.
Set after the events of Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, this latest game set in the Chicken Run universe lets you put together your own team and attempt to rescue yet more chickens from a variety of locations. The result is a simple stealth game with one or two frustrations, but thanks to its charming animation and impressive voice cast, franchise fans will likely enjoy it quite a lot.
If you can't resist feeding some coins into a Fast & Furious: Arcade machine whenever you visit an arcade, you might appreciate being able to play it at home in the form of Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition. For most, though, this barebones port will feel too light on content to feel worthwhile.
While the remake of the original The House of the Dead proved to be a fairly entertaining jaunt, this update of the sequel inexplicably comes off far worse. From horrible controls to poor visuals that are simply too dark at times, it's a big disappointment. Still, it's the only way to play this arcade classic on modern consoles, and it boasts some new modes and features.
There's a lot of content in Hot Wheels Let's Race: Ultimate Speed, and there's no doubt that young fans of the Netflix show it's based on will enjoy the package here. But considering the poor handling and a number of other frustrations, it's hard to fully recommend this game, particularly when the excellent Hot Wheels Unleashed series exists.
Tormented Souls 2, like its predecessor, offers some solid survival horror action inspired by classics of the genre. Some might find dealing with or avoiding enemies a bit frustrating at times though, and a number of its puzzles could be considered a little too obtuse for comfort.
A new Ninja Gaiden for a new generation, Ninja Gaiden 4 features combat that's faster-paced and more intense than ever before. It's the most accessible, too, thanks to a range of difficulty levels and assists. It's just a shame that its new protagonist isn't a little more likeable.
Halls of Torment combines the character-building, loot and atmosphere of Diablo with the conciseness and pick-up-and-play nature of the Survivors-like genre to create an experience like no other. You might encounter the odd minor frustration while playing, but this is very easy to recommend.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 has a wealth of issues, from an open world that feels wasted to combat that feels scrappy throughout. Thanks to a gripping narrative that you can shape with your actions, however, you'll likely still enjoy your time spent sucking blood across Seattle.
Battlefield is back. While the single-player campaign of Battlefield 6 has its moments, it's pretty mediocre on the whole. Thankfully the game's extensive multiplayer offerings make up for it. The action here is fast-paced and wonderfully intense, making each match rewarding whether you win or lose. Some maps could do with some tweaks, but other than that there's not much to complain about.
With its stunning visuals, beautiful soundtrack and gratifying gameplay, Absolum will draw you in from the outset. And thanks to its roguelike elements it has plenty of longevity and depth. One of the best games of 2025, this is a must-play whether you're a fan of beat 'em ups or roguelikes.
More than a straightforward remaster or remake, Yooka-Replaylee reimagines the original game, adding new challenges and gameplay elements while tweaking and improving others. Ultimately, it's a much-improved experience, with its worlds densely packed with things to do and its gameplay finely-tuned. This is easily one of the best 3D platformers currently available.
A tactical RPG with roguelike elements, Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch should successfully appeal to fans of both genres. There's an intriguing story here, as well as an engaging combat system, which should keep you coming back for one expedition after another, gathering new recruits and unlocking upgrades as you go.
With its charming player models and fast-paced 3v3 matches with simplified mechanics, NBA Bounce offers a fun take on basketball that's suitable for all ages and skill levels. It's not quite as exciting to play as it could be, however, and a lack of online multiplayer will be disappointing to some.
Including both the original and a new enhanced version of the classic tactical RPG, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is fantastic for fans and newcomers alike. The enhanced version is the real draw here, though, mostly because of its revised story and full voice acting, which really adds to the experience.
This flat-screen version of Alien: Rogue Incursion – Part One isn't as tense as its VR counterpart, and its gameplay isn't as exciting as a result, but it remains a solid experience for Alien fans. Just be prepared to backtrack a lot in the latter half and perhaps be disappointed by its unsatisfactory ending.
You won't find any major changes or new additions to modes in EA Sports FC 26, but what you will find is gameplay that's improved across the board. On top of that, you have presets which allow you to choose between a more competitive or authentic experience, though the latter's unfortunately not available in online modes.
A true love letter to classic samurai films, Ghost of Yotei is wonderfully presented and an absolute joy to play. Its stunningly-realised world will have you immersed from the outset, spurring you to explore and discover its secrets in order to develop Atsu into a fearsome ghost. And its combat remains thrilling throughout.