Obsidian created a universe that's easy to get lost in. The Outer Worlds oozes personality and charm, and the robust character creator encourages multiple playthroughs just to see how different archetypes affect the gameplay.
Doom Eternal is pure, unadulterated mayhem that indulges in its own brutality, creating a sinfully fun first-person shooter. The multiplayer may be nothing to write home about, but the campaign deserves your undivided attention.
Now that my journey is over, though, there’s a part of me that misses that tedium. I want to go back and hunt all the animals, explore every mountaintop and winding river. There were so many little easter eggs that I’ve missed in Red Dead Redemption 2, and I want to take my time to find them all. Maybe it’s Stockholm syndrome. Or maybe Rockstar has built one of the most realistic depictions of life itself.
The Messenger goes beyond paying its respects to the games of the past, effectively using the time shifting as a homage to the 8- and 16-bit eras. It’s more than a gimmick, acting as both a game mechanic and a storytelling tool. The interesting narrative draws you in while the clever writing breaks the fourth wall to make you laugh. The tight controls keep you playing, despite the slight tedium of the Metroidvania segments. The Messenger toes the line between being a tribute to old-school games and being a modern game with a fresh feeling.
The first episode of Life is Strange 2, which took me roughly three hours to complete, is an emotional experience that shouldn’t be missed this year. It’s a strong start to a series that exceeds all expectations. It lays a lot of promise for the next four episodes that I hope Dontnod delivers on, and I want the political commentary to continue. This sequel has a lot of ambition and lofty goals, but if it succeeds, it has the potential to be crowned one of the best titles in the episodic narrative genre.
Just Cause 4 is the most essential game in the series, perfecting years of blowing things up in the most creative ways. While the narrative doesn't have any lasting impact, the overall package delivers as video game comfort food.
Catherine: Full Body takes the 2011 cult classic to the next level. With new story elements, remixed stages, and compelling characters, this title is sure to satisfy old fans and newcomers alike.
My Time at Portia suffers from arbitrarily long timers in its crafting system, but that's overshadowed by its rustic aesthetic and in-depth social system. For fans of the crafting and farming simulation genre, this is a title worth checking out.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon refreshes the action with a turn-based JRPG that retains its charming identity, but it falls into some pitfalls that are emblematic of the genre.
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it's still a fun romp through New York City, with likeable characters and electrifying Venom powers.