Undertale has personality in spades, paired with one of the most unique hooks in recent history. Those looking for something new need not look any farther – Undertale is your game.
Future Tone is a rare case where the sheer quantity of content is matched by the highest quality. Packing catchy beats, addictive gameplay, and some serious challenge, this is one title that is worth coming back to for years to come.
Sonic Mania has everything you could ever want from a Sonic game. The levels are carefully crafted, the bosses are unique, and the fanservice is off the charts. Those looking for the second coming of SEGA's mascot have found it here.
Proof positive that love conquers all, Mission: It's Complicated saves the day with its original premise, sharp writing, and long-lasting replayability.
Following up a series as renowned as Streets of Rage with a new entry is no small feat, but Streets of Rage 4 hits hard with its signature frantic action and stylish audiovisual presentation.
Guilty Gear -Strive- sets a new gold standard for fighting games. Everything from the netcode to the presentation has been polished to a shiny sheen, and its incredibly high skill ceiling will keep players coming back for years to come.
Pack your bags for South Town - KOF is back. The deep and stylish gameplay that put the series on the map is back and better than ever, and the inclusion of rollback netcode ensures this dream match never ends.
Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA Mega Mix+ is all killer and no filler, offering up the finest Vocaloid action to date. Rhythm game fans, arcade junkies, and music lovers, rejoice; this is your game.
Treading new ground in the visual novel genre, Arcadia's fusion of technology and jazz provides an incredibly fresh experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Frantic, fluid, and fun, Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r] features all the greatest parts of the fighting game genre. It's not a revolutionary update, but rather an evolutionary one designed for those looking for accessible yet nuanced gameplay and a truly diverse roster.
Helltaker features good puzzle mechanics, great aesthetics, and amazing storytelling. Though it is a bit on the short side, this venture into hell is worth a go for anybody looking for a little love.
Tadpole Treble Encore will be the most charming game you play this year. Despite its corny vocals, hardcore rhythm game fans will enjoy the sheer amount of replayability Baton's grand adventure brings to the table.
There's no better way to see the Dragon Ninja Ryu Hayabusa in action than with the Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection. Those that can deal with the odd loading stutter can experience some of the finest hack-and-slash combat on the market today.
The experimental nature of Heal Hitler pays off in dividends. By focusing squarely on the script, this visual novel features a real human element that makes every choice truly matter. Those looking for an enthralling tale with one of history's most infamous dictators have certainly found it in this psychologists' office.
Those with a taste for speedy fighters will be right at home with Melty Blood: Type Lumina. The series' in-depth mechanics are alive and well in this reboot, making this arguably the best entry yet.
Designed for short burst sessions, TechBeat Heart encourages players to come back for just one more run. This vertical shmup doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t have to - its focus on the fundamentals pays off in dividends.
Methodical puzzle games and frenzied roguelikes sound like apples and oranges, but Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon makes a delicious smoothie out of the two genres suitable for all tastes.
The team at M2 had an incredible eye for detail when creating G-Darius HD. Not only does it respect the already solid source material, it encourages shmup fans to pour over every last detail. G-Darius HD isn’t just a re-release; it is a love letter.
Break out the personal pan pizzas - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection is the best way to experience these heroes in a half shell. This is more than just a collection; it’s a tribute of the highest order.
Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number is the type of game that will get your heart racing and test your reflexes at each and every turn. It’s late-80s-early 90s-infused world proves that arcade-style gameplay isn’t dead — it just moved.