Ride 2 manages to improve on last year’s release, but still struggles to shift itself above a niche racer for fans of the sport.
Dragon Quest Heroes 2 is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but it doesn't feel like a big enough leap. There are minor gameplay improvements that result in a more unique and refined experience, but at it's core the game is still struggling to pull itself away from the Dynasty Warriors series.
Spellforce 3 is an ambitious game that manages to blend fun RTS segments with traditional isometric dungeon exploration in a neat RPG package.
Darksiders III, while more limited in scope than its predecessor, provides a tighter, more deliberate experience that elaborates on the lore we've seen so far. The smaller world of Darksiders 3 may disappoint some fans of the previous game, but this feels like a reboot of the series. Poor PC performance, a lack of side-objectives and some unimaginative world-design point to a game with ambitions bigger than its budget, but Darksiders II is a fun and challenging experience that kept me engaged across the length of its story.
Zarvot is a unique experience that's right at home on the Nintendo Switch. It's commitment to manic, arcade shooting is one of its biggest strengths, but this unfortunately highlights the game's weaker elements, namely the platforming. The narrative is ultimately the stand out feature here, as the nuanced character writing highlights the surprisingly profound overarching narrative in a way that keeps players engaged.
For the flaws that it has, Fade to Silence is an ambitious game that provides a unique experience in a crowded genre. The world is stark, cold and unwelcoming, and there's a discomposing atmosphere that always puts you on edge. Fade to Silence isn't for everyone, but for those who want to experience a harsh, unforgiving world, this is just the ticket - just don't rush into permadeath mode right away.
Whether you're looking to carve your way downhill at breakneck speed or you want to show off your best tricks, Shred! 2 – ft Sam Pilgrim is more than capable of fulfilling your dreams of becoming a downhill legend.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom - Rehydrated is a solid remake that perhaps stays a little too true to the original. The updated visuals bring the game more inline with the original cartoon series, but some dated game design holds the port back from being truly exceptional.
Deadly Premonition 2 feels like a step forward from the first game. It still has the same quirky and unusual humour, but this sequel brings with it improved combat and better visuals. It's a shame it's held back by poor performance on Nintendo Switch, but fans of the original are going to love Deadly Premonition 2, the city of Le Carrè and the story it has to tell.
Skater XL softens some of the more technical aspects of the sport, but empowers players with the ability to pull off stylish tricks with a swish of the analogue sticks. Even with a lack of content and polish, Skater XL stands on its own four wheels in a soon-to-be-crowded marketplace, providing players with an experience that prioritises fun over simulation.
Through its lengthy story, Resolutiion provides real moments of awe and beauty. From dark and dingy caves through to soaring heights at the peak of the monolithic buildings, the world is a sight to behold, it's just a shame that traversing it doesn't feel any where near as great as it looks. Resolutiion's snappy, visceral combat does help make that journey slightly more bearable, but you'll still likely end up wandering in circles trying to find the right path forward.
Kirby Fighters 2 is an unremarkable fighting game that doesn't really do much to separate itself from Super Smash Brothers. The fighting is decent and the story mode is fun, but there's little reason to carry on playing once you've climbed the tower, especially with the multiplayer servers already feeling empty a few weeks after release. At less than half the price of Ultimate, Kirby Fighters 2 is a great compromise if you're looking for a simple fighting game.
Super Meat Boy Forever is an interesting sequel. It attempts to build on the legacy of its predecessor, but the additions it brings to the table cannot elevate it beyond the simplicity of the original. The updated visuals are welcome, but Super Meat Boy Forever is a classic example of trying too hard to innovate, while losing sight of what made the series so beloved.
Carto is a unique experience that perhaps doesn't make the most of its central puzzling mechanic. The puzzle-solving itself is fun, but the story ends up quite forgettable. If you're after a short experience to keep you busy for an afternoon, then Carto is for you - just don't expect to be blown away.
Sword of the Necromancer is a fun roguelike, with a unique enemy revival system that sets it apart from other titles in the genre. Unfortunately, a lacklustre combat system and unoriginal story mean that it doesn't quite match up to the absolute best roguelikes out there.
Eternal Hope is a great little puzzle platformer. What it lacks in originality, it makes up for in heart, offering a relatable story of love, loss and redemption. Perfect if you're looking for a short, heartfelt adventure to keep you distracted for a few hours.
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia is a complicated beast. It's a vastly detailed strategy game that demands a lot of players. For those up to the challenge, there're hours and hours of content on offer here, in what is an impressive strategy titles. However, if you aren't versed in strategy games, you are going to struggle to get on with Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia as it offers new players very little help.
Unexplored2 is an ambitious and interesting roguelike that falls short of what it could be. The unique Dungeons & Dragons inspired roleplaying system is let down by lacklustre combat feel and a litany of bugs that lead to frustration. I do think it's a title that's worth keeping an eye on though, as there's a whole heap of potential resting just under the surface.
Starship Troopers: Terran Command is an interesting experience. It doesn't do anything particularly original, or push the RTS genre in any way, but it perfectly mimics the aesthetic and humour of the original film, making for a pleasant, if somewhat frustrating RTS experience.
Between Me And The Night is a game that challenges some tough subjects, mental health is not something that many developers delve into. It's a shame that clumsy and vague puzzle design hold the game back. It's worth a few hours of your time if you don't mind relying on guides to help your progression.