If Monster Hunter: World is a revelation, then Iceborne is something more. It takes everything I loved about the original title, while improving the things that I didn't. Truly, even with some minor shortcomings, if the ideal form of Monster Hunter were to be given shape then this is just about as close as you could get.
Super Neptunia RPG is a diamond in the rough. It has the potential to be the best spin-off to date, but is so marred by gameplay issues and bugs that its successes are often overshadowed. Unless you're in love with Neptunia, then I'd suggest waiting for a patch. Hell, wait anyway.
Despite some shortcomings, Samurai Shodown doesn't disappoint. Its slow pace belies a depth that rivals any fighting game, while still providing an experience unlike almost any other. If the stunning visuals don't leave you breathless, then the unrelenting tension felt during combat certainly will.
Compile Heart has become increasingly proficient at producing titles with dark premises and Dragon Star Varnir is proof of that. And fortunately, unlike other Galapagos RPG titles, the focus on narrative doesn't leave the actual gameplay hanging by the wayside.
Fate/Extella Link is a solid musou, but how much enjoyment you derive from it will depend on how familiar you are with the lore. Fans of the franchise can jump right in; however, newcomers would do well to check out previous material before giving this a whirl.
The Caligula Effect: Overdose has great ideas that are often marred by uneven execution. But with its unique combat system, as well as exemplary music and illustrations, the negatives are outweighed by the positives.
Ultimately, I'm not sure if Dead or Alive 6 is the game that fans expected after a seven-year wait, but with its thrilling combat and amazing visuals, it still serves up a fulfilling experience — fanservice and all.
With it's disquieting atmosphere and horror-fueled setting, Death end re;Quest is one of Compile Heart's most intriguing titles to date. However, much like other entries under the Galapagos RPG brand, it occasionally feels like the core gameplay plays second fiddle to everything else.
It doesn't use the transition to modern consoles fully to its advantage, but with plenty of man-eating Aragami and action that is simply exhilarating to participate in, God Eater 3 is an Action RPG that's good as a snack, and even a three-course meal once future content arrives.
With fast and fluid combat, endearing characters and a grounded story that isn't afraid to crack a few jokes, Senran Kagura Burst Re:Newal represents the series at it's finest. That said, if you take issue with the sexualization of its characters, then this game is not for you.
Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition shows its age in some areas, but with its enjoyable characters, interesting story, beautiful aesthetic and fun combat, this is one game from 2008 that definitely still holds up in 2019.
My Hero One's Justice takes the essence of the source material and wraps it into an enjoyable package. This is by no means the definitive "My Hero Academia" experience a fan might have been hoping for, but it's still a fun one.
SoulCalibur 6 is a brilliant return to form for the series, combining a robust single-player campaign and intense, dynamic combat to bring the franchise to a level it hasn't been at in years. It's time to leave your mark on history once again.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age takes everything to love about classic JRPGs and refines them to their utmost. The result? Absolute brilliance. If you had to pick just one JRPG to own on a modern platform, then let it this be the one.
With its intricately woven story and memorable characters, Yakuza 2 was already viewed as one of the best in the series. And now with improved graphics and a refined Dragon Engine, it's remake, Yakuza Kiwami 2, could be the best of them all.
Shining Resonance Refrain might be outclassed by modern JRPGs, but if you judge it on it's own merits, you'll quickly find that there is a lot to enjoy.
I was worried Little Witch Academia: Chamber of Time would be a cheap cash grab, but I was wrong. There are some flaws, but the most important aspect — the franchise's ethos — is fully intact and on full display, making this a game that's sure to leave fans spellbound
The lack of new content in Dragon's Crown Pro may be disappointing, but when a game plays — and looks — as good as this, it's hard to hold such complaints against it. Returning players, welcome back; new players, enjoy your stay.
Don't let the odd marketing fool you — there is far more to Megadimension Neptunia VIIR than just its VR. Between its quality of life updates, reworked mechanics and enhanced combat, this game represents the series at its best.
Atelier Lydie & Suelle: The Alchemists and the Mysterious Paintings has allowed me to rediscover why I fell in love with the series in the first place. And though I did find the lack of characters and inconsistent translation frustrating, just about everything else blew me away.