Matthew Weidner
Risk of Rain 2 is a perfect 3D translation of the 2D side-scroller it's based on.
Super Mario Maker 2 is an endless supply of joy that beautifully builds off the foundation of its Wii U counterpart.
It’s everything a Zelda spinoff demands: wisdom in design, courage in concept, and power in music — culminating in the one of the most epic video game crossovers this side of Hyrule.
Back in the Groove is the faithful return to form Funkotron fans have been rapping about for decades, capturing the magic that made the original so endearing the galaxy over. It may not expand on the OG formula much, but old skool spinmasters from the Sega Genesis era are sure to vibe with ToeJam & Earl’s funky fresh return.
Yet what it lacks in ambition is made up by tight platforming and riveting boss fights — a homage to its more pixelated past Mega fans are sure to enjoy.
Its evocative use of visual storytelling, haunting soundtrack, and fluid combat system will leave you cutting and coughing through its beautifully pixelated playground long after the credits roll.
Overcooked’s second course is nothing short of five-star cuisine.
From start to summit, Celeste is a joyous journey brimming with heartfelt moments that will sink their heel hooks in you long after the closing credits roll. Strong storytelling and a firm grasp of platformers past slowly snowball into an emotional avalanche worth riding, cementing its place as one of the most compelling video games to ever grace the medium.
Admittedly, it isn’t perfect, suffering from the same repetitive boss battles and drab environments plaguing its inspirational counterpart, but for those who can look past its minor mishaps (and you should), you’ll find one of the best 2D Metroid games this side of the galaxy.
While small scuffs to the online multiplayer experience prevent it from reaching perfection, Deluxe is a crowd cheering victory lap to the Wii U’s wondrous warm-up every Switch owner deserves to get behind the wheel of.