Michael Higham
By refining what was already great and building on its best qualities with a brilliant new story arc, Persona 5 Royal asserts itself as an unforgettable and empowering RPG.
Phantom Liberty embodies the best of Cyberpunk 2077 for a thrilling RPG-shooter with an evocative story, compelling side content, and unforgettable conclusions.
Hi-Fi Rush marches to the beat of its own drum with stunning animation, loveable characters, and stylish rhythmic action that are anything but one-note.
Bayonetta Origins is a beautiful storybook brought to life as an imaginative action-adventure full of childlike wonder and endless charm.
With a stellar visual overhaul and countless small but impactful changes, Persona 3 Reload tells a timeless story of tragedy and hope with sharp emotional sincerity.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth impressively builds off of what Remake set in motion, both as a best-in-class action-RPG full of exciting challenges and an awe-inspiring recreation of a world that has meant so much to so many for so long.
1000xResist is a revolution in storytelling, creating its own complex and rich fiction that’s beautifully written and spectacularly visualized. By expertly weaving genuine intimate moments with a sharp political identity, it makes its statements with a confidence that leaves an everlasting impact.
Refining the Atlus RPG formula of weaving tough turn-based combat into compelling social sim mechanics, Metaphor: ReFantazio doesn’t just send a powerful message across its political drama, it becomes a beautiful expression of the real impact storytelling can have on all of us.
The wonderful worlds of BlazBlue, Persona 4, Under Night, and RWBY collide for an accessible yet challenging fighting showcase.
Even though the original RPG had a somber tone, the wonderful personalities and music of Persona 3 shine bright in this fun, heartfelt, and vibrant rhythm game.
Half-Life: Alyx is a tremendous VR experience that captures and elevates what makes the series special.
Through its vivid sketchbook art style and sharp writing, If Found gives a powerful, affecting story about empathy and acceptance as a young adult.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon's cast of misfits makes the wild RPG combat, absurd humor, and dramatic storytelling soar.
FFXVI is a bold shift in both gameplay and narrative, yet captures the Final Fantasy magic in stunning fashion, earning a place within the pantheon of incredible entries in the beloved franchise.
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance doesn't necessarily make drastic improvements upon the 2021 original, but its new storyline and content additions are reason enough to revisit an already great RPG, or start fresh if you missed it the first time.
Dawntrail may have some growing pains as it establishes a compelling new era for Final Fantasy XIV, but in its best moments, it lives up to what has made this MMORPG so special for all these years.
The Persona 3 Reload DLC, Episode Aigis: The Answer, may be tedious to play at times, but in its faithful recreation are important lessons about the toughest parts of our lives, told through the lens of the series' best characters.
South of Midnight is a straightforward but well-executed action-adventure game elevated by the artistry and heart of the American Southern culture that’s wrapped around it.
Strafe doesn't do too much, but its exceptional execution and unique charm make for a truly intense, old-school FPS experience.
Despite glaring technical flaws, PUBG emerges as the most thrilling battle royal game to date.