Abzu is one of those games that comes along and manages to capture you into its world, allowing you to shut out all of the stress and worries of your own life. It successfully allows you to live in its dream-like environment for a few hours and delivers tranquility you may not have even known you needed.
Song of the Deep tells a compelling story and presents enjoyable, captivating Metroidvania gameplay set in an enthralling underwater world.
Part of the appeal of Furi is mastering its many difficult boss battles. If you're going to do that, be prepared to experience large amounts of frustration. You'll ultimately walk away with a feeling of accomplishment, though, especially if you refrain from switching to the easy difficulty setting.
Super Mutant Alien Assault isn't the greatest shooter in recent memory, but that doesn't take away the fact that it's just really fun to play. And there's plenty of depth tucked away for you to discover the more you play.
Playdead's Inside may have been the follow-up to Limbo six years in the making, but the wait was certainly worth it.
Mighty No. 9 is a forgettable attempt at cashing in on people's nostalgia and love of Mega Man.
Atelier Sophie: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Book isn't going to win any awards for best RPG of the year, but it's still a good time and gives you a couple dozen hours of enjoyable playtime.
You have to commend Severed for using the Vita's touchscreen heavily for its gameplay. And while that use of the system works and is mostly enjoyable, it's not always entertaining.
Republique transitions from mobile to console in grand fashion, and it boldly tells a brilliant story that's rife with wonderful gameplay design and quality voice acting.
Stardew Valley is the best and most entertaining farming RPG to come along in years, and it's filled with such sheer charm and sincerity that it'll instantly win you over.
If you're looking for a high-speed shoot-a-thon, you won't get that with Dead Star.
Blood Alloy: Reborn could have been something special, but it's a clear victim of limited funding and hurried development.
Superhot is an absolute joy to play, and it includes some great extra modes, neat story twists, and outstanding art. It's a complete package, and even though it's all over rather quickly, it's worth revisiting again and again.
Not content with simply letting you try to play it, Calendula is very much a game that plays you. It's a thrilling commentary on the relationship between player and game.
World's Dawn doesn't reinvent the wheel for farming simulators, but it really doesn't have to. It's a fun, relaxing game for people seeking exactly that.
Like so many other titles created using RPG Maker, Apocalypse Hotel is held down by the tools used to develop it. It's kind of fun, but only in short sessions.
The Greens tell a brave story with That Dragon, Cancer. Joel Green's life may have been short, but it was an important, beautiful life that's now being shared with the world.
Perhaps if Whiskey Jack Games can add more quests and clean up the performance issues, Crudelis might be a solid title. As it stands right after launch, however, it's hard to recommend.
The Witness is one of the most elegant puzzlers around. It'll make you think, it'll make you laugh, and it'll make you yell. Above all else, though, it'll take you on one memorable journey that will stay with you for a long time.
Night School Studio has delivered a shining example of narrative excellence with Oxenfree. The story, the characters, the look, and the sound all come together to create an unforgettable series of wonderful moments.