As far as isometric games go, EKO Software's title is one of the better ones out there. Sure, it may be slightly shallow in certain departments, but what it lacks, it more than makes up for in an excellent co-op mode and an enticing amount of replay value. Definitely one to try out.
If you're a Souls fan itching for something to fill the gap while waiting for Bloodborne next year then you won't be disappointed with LotF. For everyone else who isn't familiar with the Souls series, it's highly recommended that you try that series first.
Fortunately, Pre-Sequel is largely more of the same with a few new extras. With the return of the True Vault Hunter Mode from previous games, the first thing you'll want to do after sitting (or skipping) through the credits will be to do it all over again - the biggest sign I can give you that Pre-Sequel is more than just a cut-and-paste copy of past games.
Time trials, speed potting and high score challenges all sit alongside the game's main career mode, and while they're all perfectly serviceable game types, it's Pure Pool's multiplayer that really stops the repetitive nature of the game from sticking its claws in.
Velocity 2X is an excellent digital title that delivers more than just a little substance for its modest price. While certain aspects could do with some slight refinements, i.e. some iffy controls and repetitive stages, the title as a whole is leagues better than most titles that claim to be as innovative as Velocity.
For all of its variation in gameplay, War Thunder just never really feels very engaging. The extremely tactical nature that makes its closest relative so addictive just doesn't exist, and while that's not the only way to make a war sim entertaining, Gaijin haven't offered a suitable alternative.
All in all, this is a homerun for FromSoft, and with another two episodes to come, Crown of the Sunken King has set a benchmark of quality that, if matched by episodes two and three, will mark an excellent continuation to an already great title.
The combination of repetitive gameplay, pacing and story issues in relation to the Earth/Cybertron dynamic and the absence of almost any new ideas will result in Rise of the Dark Spark finding itself being forgotten in the not too distant future. In the vocally distorted words of Bumblebee… "[Sad bleeps]". Sad Bleeps indeed.
Van Helsing II isn't a huge improvement over its predecessor, but it's certainly starting to show increasing signs of becoming an excellent RPG. Unfortunately, the game is still hindered by some combat issues and a bland story, but the basics are there, we just have to hope the Neocore continue to improve on their IP.
Watch_Dogs may not be the benchmark experience for sandbox gaming that Grand Theft Auto V was, but it's still an enjoyable experience in its own right. Compelling side missions, refined combat and some unique hacking elements make this a must for fans of the genre, but if you're looking for a grand, city-spanning story to get stuck into, this won't be a game that will hold your interest beyond a few hours.
The thought of where Telltale will head with Episode 4 will fill the mind with excitement, and if it's as good as In Harm's Way, we're probably looking at another helping of shiny videogame trophies come awards season.
Some of Full Bore's puzzles will evoke the same dumbfounded look that the Portal games give - and the same kind of satisfaction when you figure them out. Definitely give this one a go if you're a fan of the genre.
If this is the start of many new projects from Ubisoft Montreal, no doubt many people are going to be watching with keen eyes, because Child of Light provides a fantastical experience that revitalises turn-based combat for a new audience. Give it a go, you won't be disappointed.
Devastation is another average map pack addition to Ghosts, helped to keep its head above water by an entertaining new Extinction map. Don't expect anything other than more of the same here.
There are no doubts that critics and gamers alike are going to have preferences on which Souls title is the superior experience, and if an edge had to be given to one over the other, then Dark Souls would take this guy's vote. But calling Dark Souls II only marginally inferior to its predecessor is hardly an insult. This is still a true gem of entertainment in its own right.
The Stick of Truth may be a little light on challenging gameplay, but the simple yet fun RPG mechanics, coupled with writing that matches the TV series in satiric gold, makes this the best South Park game you'll play for a very, very long time.
Lords of Shadow 2 may not surpass its predecessors' surprise rise to AAA status, but MercurySteam's last foray into the series still provides a fitting, if sometimes flawed end to the trilogy.
A game of two halves, Lightning Returns isn't a brilliant end to the XIII trilogy that you may have hoped for, but it's enjoyable. Just try to ignore the coma-inducing story.
Infinity Ward's first map pack for Ghosts is a largely by-the-numbers update to its multiplayer. There's nothing here you haven't seen before, but for fans, the extra content should help to extend the replay value of an increasingly repetitive franchise.
Liberation was a great handheld title and its transition to console is well worth a look if you're a fan of the series and don't own a Vita. The game certainly has its flaws though; the average story and dull dialogue may quite rightly turn you away.