James Luff
Everdeep Aurora is a thoughtful and unusual game that rewards patience and curiosity. It’s not an adrenaline rush or a test of skill, but rather a slow descent into a world full of strange characters, gentle storytelling, and hidden truths. It’s a game I wasn’t sure about at first, but by the end, I was glad I took the trip. It’s not for everyone, but if it clicks, it really clicks.
Flora & Fang: Guardians of the vampire garden is a sweet little arcade gem that delivers on its promise of fast-paced fun and quirky charm. Whether solo or with a co-op partner, it’s an enjoyable and surprisingly deep experience for the genre. It may not look like much at first glance, but stick with it and you’ll uncover an addictive loop full of cute chaos, clever mechanics, and lots of bug-squashing goodness.
Oceanhorn: Chronos Dungeon is a delightful detour from the mainline series. Whether you’re playing alone or teaming up with family and friends, the game offers hours of fun wrapped in a nostalgic, approachable package. Its streamlined gameplay, couch co-op, and charming pixel visuals make it perfect for both casual players and veterans of the genre. If you’re looking for a game to jump into without needing a big time investment, or one that brings everyone together on the couch, this one is well worth your time.
Decades later, Worms Armageddon hasn’t lost a bit of its charm. Whether you’re playing a quick solo match, diving into the campaign, or sharing chaotic laughter with friends in multiplayer, this is still one of the best strategy games around. Now that it’s on the Switch, it’s even easier to take the fun on the go. Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition is more than just a re-release; it’s a beautifully presented tribute to a game that’s stood the test of time. If you’ve never played Worms before, there’s no better entry point. And if, like me, you grew up launching sheep across enemy lines, this is the ultimate way to revisit an old favourite.
Cat Quest III is everything a sequel should be, it builds on the past, expands the formula, and offers more ways to play. Whether you’re diving in solo or sharing the journey with a loved one in local co-op, it’s a joy from start to finish. It’s casual without being shallow, funny without being forced, and accessible without ever feeling watered down. So hoist your sails, sharpen your claws, and set out on one of the most delightful adventures the high seas, and the RPG genre have to offer.
Irem Collection Volume 3 doesn’t overwhelm with volume, but what it offers is top-tier arcade action. Each game is a strong representative of its genre, showcasing different creative approaches to horizontal shooting. Whether it’s the magic-and-monsters of Mystic Riders, the dragon-riding spectacle of Dragon Breed, or the charming exploration of Mr. Heli, there’s something here for every retro fan. While some may be disappointed by the lack of extras or a small game count, the quality and polish of the included titles make Irem Collection Volume 3 a worthy addition to any Switch library. Arcade fans, in particular, will find plenty to love.
Locomoto is a delightful and gentle ride that provides the perfect balance of interaction and relaxation. Even as someone who doesn’t typically click with games like Animal Crossing, I found myself charmed by its heart and simplicity. There’s always something to do, but never any pressure to do it quickly. It’s a game that welcomes you warmly, lets you set the pace, and quietly celebrates every small accomplishment. And the best part? My little boy adores it. Of all the train-themed games I reviewed this month, this was the one that completely won him over, and that dual thumbs up means more than any score I could give.
Ruffy and the Riverside radiates positivity. It’s a feel-good, welcoming adventure that encourages curiosity, rewards creativity, and never loses its sense of fun. Whether you’re playing solo on a quiet day or sharing the adventure with loved ones, it’s a heartwarming experience that’s easy to recommend. This isn’t just another platformer. Ruffy and the Riverside is a love letter to imaginative play, with a gentle heart and joyful spirit. It reminds us that games aren’t just about challenges, they’re also about comfort, wonder, and feeling good.
Bambas! is a charming little game that takes the simple act of walking and turns it into a joyful playground of goofy physics and feel-good fun. It’s a good game for a simple low effort game night, especially for those who want to enjoy something silly, creative, and easy to jump into. Whether you’re playing for a few minutes or an hour, it’ll put a smile on your face.
BitLiberator is a smart, unassuming puzzle-strategy game that rewards patience, experimentation, and creative problem-solving. It’s ideal for players who enjoy being challenged, and even better for those with limited playtime who still want something mentally engaging. That said, it might not be the best fit for more casual gamers who prefer relaxed or hand-holdy experiences; the difficulty can spike, and the game expects you to figure things out on your own. Still, if you love puzzles that make you feel clever, and if you enjoy tight, satisfying design, this is one worth checking out.
Train Valley Origins is a delightful return to the fundamentals that made the series a cult favourite. Its historical theme, accessible gameplay, and satisfying loop of building and managing train networks make it a great entry point for newcomers and a pleasant journey for long-time fans. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a stressful day or sharpen your strategic thinking, this game strikes a near-perfect balance of comfort and challenge.
Rail Route is another great example of turning a complex, real-world profession into a surprisingly enjoyable video game. It might take a bit of time to get into, especially for players new to the genre, but once it clicks, it really clicks. I found myself playing for on and off stretches, caught up in the flow of managing rail traffic and optimising my growing network. While I gravitated more toward the relaxed and creative modes, there’s plenty here for players who enjoy pressure and puzzles. And if you’re the type of player who loves systems that evolve over time, you’ll find Rail Route a rewarding experience that may just make you question your actual career path.
Lost in Random: The Eternal Die doesn’t try to revolutionise the roguelite genre, but it doesn’t need to. Its combination of stylish presentation, solid combat, and clever mechanics makes it a worthy addition to the genre. If you’re feeling burnt out on roguelikes, it might not reignite your passion, but for fans of the format or the world of Lost in Random, it’s an easy recommendation.
If you’re searching for a game that offers a blend of quiet reflection, mythological storytelling, and light puzzle-solving, Bahamut and the Waqwaq Tree is an excellent choice. It may not appeal to thrill-seekers, but for anyone in need of a calm, purposeful adventure, it’s an ocean gem with a lot of heart.
The GEX Trilogy is a solid trip down memory lane. These games may not be genre-defining classics, but they’re better than many remember, especially with the modern improvements layered on top. The 2D original benefits greatly from quality-of-life features, while the two 3D titles still hold up with their quirky design and varied level themes. If you loved GEX back in the day, GEX Trilogy is the best way to re-experience it. And if you missed him entirely, this collection offers a polished, accessible way to see what all the wisecracking was about
Rise of Industry 2 didn’t quite land with me personally, but I can see it striking a chord with fans of complex management sims. If you enjoy games that reward patience, long-term planning, and fine-tuning every aspect of a system, there’s a lot here to enjoy. It’s not built for quick sessions or casual play, at least not at first, but it’s an impressive, detailed game with a unique style and ambition. For gamers with the time and interest to truly dig in, Rise of Industry 2 might just be your next great challenge.
Nice Day for Fishing blends RPG mechanics with fishing in a way that feels both natural and refreshing. It’s a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet offers a surprisingly deep and rewarding experience. Whether you’re following the main story, upgrading your gear, or just hanging out by the water to see what you can catch, there’s a lot to love here. This is a game that understands the joy of quiet progression and mixes it with creative twists on genre expectations. If you’re looking for a unique RPG with heart, humor, and hooks (literally), this one’s worth casting a line for.
Spirit of the North 2 is a warm, peaceful game ideal for those who want to explore, solve puzzles, and soak in beautiful visuals, all without a single sword swing. It’s not flawless: bugs, optimisation issues, and an occasionally frustrating platforming system hold it back from greatness. But if you love animals, especially foxes, and enjoy games that value tranquillity over tension, this is a lovely journey well worth your time. The moments where you’re dashing across an open field with your raven friend under a golden sky are nothing short of magical.
Doors & Loot has its share of rough edges, most notably its underwhelming controller support and limited combat feedback, but when played with a mouse and keyboard, it becomes a much more enjoyable experience. The core loop of exploring, looting, and upgrading offers enough satisfaction to keep you coming back for another run, especially in short bursts. It’s not going to blow anyone away, but it doesn’t need to. Sometimes, a simple dungeon crawler with a solid progression loop is enough. With a bit more polish, Doors & Loot could be something great. As it stands, it’s a charming and worthwhile indie that’s definitely worth trying, just steer clear of the controller and play it the way it clearly wants to be played. A free demo is available on Steam.
Cubic Odyssey surprised me. It’s one of those games that sneaks up on you; the more you play, the more it draws you in. Between the solid sci-fi theme, satisfying progression, and blend of structure and freedom, it delivers an experience that feels both familiar and fresh. If you’ve never been into crafting games, this might be your gateway. If you’re already a fan of the genre, there’s more than enough depth and novelty to keep you engaged. And with co-op in place and ongoing updates likely, it’s only going to get better from here. Whether you’re after a solo adventure or a shared sandbox with friends, Cubic Odyssey is a stellar time sink in the best way possible. A free demo is also available on Steam