Rebirth‘s romanticised version of the genre is perhaps best forgotten
Mortal Shell‘s origins may be steeped in an echo but the final product has more than enough soul.
Ary and the Secret of Seasons might don the aesthetics of grand adventure games but it only ever glimpses the horizon it’s so clearly chasing.
The (dry) bones of Super Mario 3D All-Stars are impeccable - three of the best games ever made, spruced up for one of the best consoles ever made.
Stellar writing and performances are paired with refined mechanics and an overall vibe that makes the whole thing seem effortless.
It’s just all so captivating and lovely, rising above small annoyances or shortcomings to prove why it has been held up as a classic for so long.
Mileage is very obviously going to vary on a game like Deadly Premonition 2 and I genuinely believe that should be embraced. For all of my (gameplay) criticisms, there will be another for whom they are points in the game’s favour and to them I say, have a blast.
The core narrative and its surrounding cast of characters is intriguing but unengaging quest design means it loses steam far faster than it ought to.
Sakura Wars is a serviceable entry point for Western audiences but fails to deliver more than a modest take on what could have been a remarkable game.
MLB The Show 20 is a confident, sleek package of the best of baseball with systems that welcome newcomers and veterans alike. Crisp user interfaces, extensive customisation options and solid core mechanics make for a game that has even this novice keen for the places the series will go next.