More of a rehashed Madden 23, Madden 24's new additions do little to move the chains. Old hiccups return, new ones introduced, and it remains a title best suited for hardcore players.
Street Fighter 6 is arguably the best title of this brilliant series, an absolute joy to play with via new control schemes and leaves one breathless in execution. This is a must have game for fans both old and new to the series, and a crowning achievement in the evolution of the PS5.
It's hard to have a strong opinion on WWE 2K23 noting the realities of WWE 2K22…and still no AEW title in sight. Still and with such a strong product at launch, it's now clear 2K does not require Yuke's to make a viable and enjoyable WWE offering. Thus, WWE 2K23 is a definitive win on the PS5, and will offer oodles of play and customization for any wrestling fan type.
Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration is a tremendous and perfectly presented package at a solid price point. Its terrific and closest look at the history of Atari – supported by wonderfully playable versions of its titles – make this perhaps the best gaming compilation of the modern console era.
Bayonetta 3 is a generational title, and easily the best of the series. It's originality, execution, and overall fun factor make this a must-buy for Switch owners. Bayonetta fans old and new will adore this masterpiece.
NHL 23 is NHL 22 with but some presentation polish and international women's teams. It stands as the most obvious current example on next gen of why some sport titles may be better served updated versus re-released when so little new. NHL superfans will no doubt purchase without a thought due to roster updates. Casual ones should consider staying put or at a reduced price. The accompanying review score is a reflection of this reality, as ratings take into account changes – or lack thereof – from NHL 22.
Gotham Knights is a beautiful game that tells an amazing story. Fans of Batman and Arkham Knights will definitely like what they see. Still, the game's over-reliance on grapple and grind can wear thin, even with a terrific nightly progression system that advances main and side missions wonderfully. Final judgment should be reserved for robust multiplayer inclusion, however.
The simple question: for owners of FIFA 22 on next-gen consoles, is it worth purchasing FIFA 23? The answer is a definitive 'yes.' While not a perfect upgrade, it's a noticeable one that takes many big steps in the right direction. Plus, if you're even a mild fan of women's football and/or Ted Lasso, this decision is a whole lot easier, in tandem.
NBA2K23 is a product of many arguably long overdue, bold decisions, and they combine to produce the best 2K in seemingly forever. Yes, some outstanding quibbles persist, but massive upgrades to gameplay, AI, a legitimate emphasis on classic eras, and no contracts in MyTeam are all winners.
Pac-Man World: Re-Pac is pretty much the same experience as it was in 1999, albeit with a minimal and barely noticeable facelift. But 1999 is not 2022…and this game didn't age well. Its simplified difficulty and presentation is best suited for kids, and – even then – is pretty generic in execution.
Combined, Madden 23 – especially with Free Form Passing – is certainly different from Madden 22, but not necessarily all that better. It still struggles in being accessible to most, with the bar for control schemes and required knowledge of American football far too high. On-screen help is still minimal, AI generated assistance limited, and fun factor almost non-existent. It's obvious the Madden series made a sharp turn toward competitive gaming and Ultimate Team a few years back, with zero regrets.
An homage to Darkstalkers more than anything, Capcom Fighter Collection is well packaged, presented and executed. There's not a lot of title diversity, but a few make their first overdue appearance outside of Japan and arcades.
MX vs ATV Legends is the white elephant gift for fans of good racers. Not even MX, ATV or UTV racing diehards will find anything worthwhile in this broken physics and presentation mess. Hard pass.
Even as a shorter game and with limited character leveling, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge is arguably the best beat-em-up and TMNT experience ages. If you have a buddy or several to tackle the forces of foot clan evil with, jump on this one.
Mario Strikers Battle Leagues adds a few new wrinkles to the original Strikers formula, and does in a tight and well-presented package. While it may disappoint those expecting more variety and a soccer component, fans of Nintendo fighters and the attack/counterattack battle system genre will feel at home here.
MLB The Show 22 again raises the bar in its visual and audio representation, with subtle realism upgrades that improve an already strong title. There's not a lot that's new here versus MLB 21, but it's sure to please Diamond Dynasty players also those wanting to see the art of the possible in 4K.
A surprisingly strong return to the squared circle, stellar presentation, a new gameplay engine, and robust modes make WWE 2K22 the best 2K in a long time.
Gran Turismo 7 is a gorgeous celebration of all things driving. It's splendid presentation and 400 + car homage to the world's favorite vehicles is a car lover's dream. What it isn't, however, is a true 'real driving simulator.' While easily a step up from GT Sport in offerings and presentation, those looking for an exhilarating gameplay experience will likely be disappointed.
In so many ways, Death's Door is the high end indy title to a tee. It's extremely polished, very creative, terrific for shorter sessions, but lacks a little in depth. Still, it's hard not to recommend Death's Door for fans of the action-adventure, Zelda genre and/or someone looking for something truly different for the Switch. Just note it can be a visual struggle when played in the Switch's portable fashion.
We finally have a truly next-gen sport title, and it's amazingly NHL 22. A complete overhaul to everything about the game and series makes for the best hockey title in decades. Even with its faults, this is a must-buy for hockey fans.