Cris Tales is an homage to the JRPG genre that delivers a worthy tale across time and space. With a gorgeous aesthetic and great characters, Cris Tales builds an interesting world but also never takes full advantage of its combat systems. There’s so much to love about Cris Tales but it stays far too close to an homage and a game that never attempts to stray away from the confines of what we know a JRPG should be.
Death's Door is a beautiful isometric game that delivers a challenging and engaging experience. Combat is fun and rewarding, bosses are tough but fair, and exploration off the beaten path will reward you. Don't miss out on this excellent indie title that will likely be around during award season.
The remastering of The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD makes it a drastically more accessible game on the Nintendo Switch that offers a wider audience the chance to explore the earliest point within the expansive Legend of Zelda timeline.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin delivers a worthwhile experience that successfully builds on its predecessor. The spin-off series is more accessible and offers a ton of content that will keep players busy.
Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights is a stunning Metroidvania set in a gothic nightmare where there is no hope for the inhabitants. Through a roughly 20 hour campaign, you restore the light to Land's End in what is a breakout hit for 2021.
Chivalry 2 is a great multiplayer game that doesn't take itself too seriously but is a serious contender for one of the best online games this year. Combat is rewarding and skill-based but the lack of maps holds the game back from being excellent.
Mario Golf: Super Rush is the perfect game to kick off the summer. While it isn't the most innovative title from Nintendo, it's a fun and easy way to learn golf.
Scarlet Nexus is an excellent game bogged down by some minor issues. Combat is fast, frantic, and fluid and offers some exhilarating moments but at the cost of bland environments and fruitless exploration.
With an abundance of quests, a fun battle system, and some of the most beautiful hand-drawn graphics you'll ever see, Legend of Mana gets a second chance at proving itself to a new generation.
Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX won't be for everyone but it is something fans of the original will cherish. As a remake, it does a good job updating the visuals and some of the mechanics but Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX carries the same issues as the original did three decades ago.