JC Suttun
It's not just one of the most realistic games to come out this generation, it's also one of the most gorgeous to look at. There's no question that this is the biggest game release of this year, so if you own either a PS4 or an Xbox One then this is one you should definitely check out.
With some great fan service and an authentic tone, Reigns: Game of Thrones uses its simple format to offer one of the most enjoyable video game takes on GoT to date. If you're an avid watcher or reader of Westeros' dynastical drama, you'll enjoy this Choose Your Own Adventure-style approach to ruling the Seven Kingdoms.
Picking up steam and adding new story and gameplay elements to the mix, Burning Bridges leaves us barreling towards The Council's concluding part, but unfortunately the added haste means the excitement is marred by annoyances.
Managing to up the ante once again, Playground Games have delivered a feast for racing fans that continues the series' trend of balancing real-world driving and flat out fun. If you're after something slightly less arcadey than Burnout Paradise but not as slavishly simulated as Forza Motorsport, Forza Horizon 4 has got you covered ten times over.
With a fresh take on the character in both story terms and gameplay, Insomniac have delivered a superb experience that harks back to when Rocksteady revitalised Batman with Arkham Asylum. Marvel's Spider-Man is a brilliant, thoroughly needed entry in the superhero genre that is a must play whether you're a hardcore comics fan, casual Spidey aficionado or simply a lover of action adventures.
As it stands, Strange Brigade is a blast, with some great hooks that lend the game to some readily accessible fun. It's just a bit of a shame that the potential is being eked out for DLC.
A strong start to the series' coda, The Final Season's first episode is among some of the best storytelling we've seen from Telltale.
The Council continues to surprise and Episode 3 is without doubt the best so far.
A bittersweet and captivating game, the follow-up to Unravel introduces co-op play to great effect
If you can ride out the clunky voice overs, The Mad Ones is a decent introduction into the world of The Council. The novel mechanics and engaging plot are ripe for further exploration over the other upcoming four episodes.
If you can adjust to the foibles of the fighting mechanics, this throwback captures the feel of classic action adventures coupled with a respectful and fascinating exploration of the Tarahumara culture. Mulaka is a mesmerising experience with a decidedly old school sensibility.
If you have the patience for a lot of wandering about and backtracking there's an intriguing story to experience here, but the expertly crafted atmosphere isn't always enough to mask the occasional gameplay frustration, getting in the way of the storytelling.
SOMA is a fantastic example of perfectly pitched atmosphere. Its gripping sci-fi mystery make for a uniquely effective experience that puts story above cheap jump scares.
The addition of open levels is a mixed bag, but this terrifying follow-up is a worthy addition to the genre
It's not reinventing the wheel, but underneath Cupheads's gleeful and gorgeous cartoonish exterior lies an addictive and fierce adventure delivering a level of challenge that, much like the game's gambling Devil, convinces you to have another roll of the dice and see how far you can make it.
Whether you're new to Mass Effect or a long-time fan like me, there's a passable adventure here. But in order to actually have any fun you'll have to ignore the enormous amounts of chaff and stick to the story.
Tides of Numenera is best approached as one might a weighty sci-fi novel from the likes of Clarke and Asimov; intimidating at first glance, with more exposition than explosions. Allow yourself to become immersed, however, and you'll find a trippy, twisty title with a myriad of ways to experience it.
This sequel is another decent attempt at bringing strategy games to console, but gameplay can feel shallow at times
If you're looking for a fun Hitman-esque sneaky murder sandbox to blast about in, you'll have an absolute ball here.
This adorable atmospheric puzzle platformer is a gentle title that's full of charm