A few new gameplay mechanics and the Fantasy Draft mode might not seem like enough to make you part with your cash, but the subtle changes are enough to make every game feel like a new challenge. Every catch can be game changing, every defensive counter move pivotal. It's great that a simple tweak can shift the dynamic so much, and it's enough to make Madden NFL 16 a more authentic experience for long time players and newcomers alike.
LEGO Jurassic Park is, as ever, a sizable package with plenty of replay value when it comes to finding every hidden nook, cranny and minikit. However, the same gameplay persists as do some of the same bugs and glitches – often revolving around co-op play. So while it is nice to revisit locales both new and old, it's not so great to see the same issues and problems when you get there.
For newcomers Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is a superb package, with the wonderful DLC thrown in and the visuals at the best they have ever been. However, it's also tough going thanks to the remixed enemy placements and new random encounters. For veterans this is a welcome return to Drangleic but not one that is mandatory, as the changes feel all too insubstantial at times. So while Scholar of the First Sin is the definitive package, it isn't one that is required for repeat visitors.
Fantasia: Music Evolved is a pleasant surprise and one that I'll happily rope family and friends into playing. There are a few niggles, but the gameplay is immensely satisfying and the tracking spot on. When you nail a tricky section and see the explosion of colour and sound that follows you can't help but smile. Give it a whirl, as this has enough Disney magic to pull you in, but perhaps not quite enough content to keep you there forever.
Skylanders: Trap Team is still a fun game, it's bright and breezy and easy to get the kids into. But so much is locked away and what is left is pretty familiar to be honest. The few new ideas are welcome but not enough to differentiate it from its predecessors.
Diablo III: Reaper of Souls Ultimate Evil Edition is a bumper package for loot hunters but is still not a very interesting game to play once you've been through it once. Long time players will easily get sucked back in to grinding for legendary loot, but the rest may well be mystified by the obsession. Still this is undoubtedly the version to get if you haven't been sucked in before now and all the bells and whistles add to the overall appeal.
A fun LEGO game, but not among the best that the series has to offer, which is a real shame as the story going on around the average levels is top notch and probably one of the best. If you've seen the The LEGO Movie though then you can probably give The LEGO Movie Videogame a miss without too many regrets.