Paul Stuart
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.
Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition for the Switch is a terrific accomplishment by Saber Interactive, albeit with less than desired graphics. But it is amazingly playable, captures the game perfectly, and is a must buy for fans of the action-RPG genre. It is the rare game that one can lose themselves into, let alone in portable fashion.
While still a bit formulaic, Far Cry 6 stands as perhaps the best Far Cry experience to date and one beautifully presented and executed on the PS5. In doing so, it builds capably on previous Far Cry titles while adding an array of terrific new additions to the fold.
The Universal Monster Pack is an arguable must buy for Pinball FX3 fans. Monster Bash is one of its best tables, period, and Creature from the Black Lagoon not far behind. Be prepared, however, for some graphical downgrade on the Switch version
Trover Saves the Universe is gameplay and comedic excellence. Its awesome humor and interface make it perhaps the best title to date on Oculus Quest.
It's easy to declare Director's Cut the best way to play Death Stranding, period. It looks and executes like a dream, and crosses over PS4 saves seamlessly (to include perfect transfer of trophies). Its improved presentation and gameplay additions (notably DualSense integration) are stellar, and make a great game…even greater. Also, the new modes, items and options are icing on an already delicious cake. Death Stranding Director's Cut is therefore an arguably must buy for PS5 owners new to the game, a solid upgrade previous players will definitely appreciate.
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.
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.
Arguably the best version of an already fantastic game.
Still, if you are a fan of puzzlers and want something different, Ape Out is a terrific diversion. While you may only play it for a few weeks (it's not a very long game), you're going to have a blast doing it.
Walkabout Mini Golf is one of the greatest pleasant surprises in the VR space to date. It's the rare truly must purchase, even more so at such a competitive price.
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.
Lone Echo is an incredible leap forward for VR via its ability to capture both zero gravity and space environments. It does have its fair share of interaction and progression bugs, but not enough to significantly detract from something truly special. Those prone to motion sickness, ease into it.
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.
Let It Die is flawed, but it’s perhaps the best free-to-play game ever made on the PS4. It’s different, daring, and occasionally impossible. But it’s also a must play for fans of the roguelike gene.
If you're a Switch owner with a passing interest in baseball, Super Mega Baseball 3 is a must buy. One of the best independent titles to date on the platform – and arguably the best indy sports title, period – it does everything its predecessors did…only better.
Even with a sizable graphical downgrade, The Walking Dead Saints and Sinners (Tourist Edition) is a wonderful launch title for the Oculus Quest 2. Its attention to detail and outstanding interface truly help the platform and title shine.
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.
Doom Eternal does its legacy proud. Unabashedly difficult, frantic, and single player-centric, it knows what it is…and does it well.
Like the PS4 version, Crash Bandicoot 4 – It's About Time is a great platformer that is a gorgeous title and must buy for fans of the series. It does, however, feature extremely high difficulty hampered by not-perfect controls.