Josh Broadwell
Forza Horizon 5 is ultimately more of the same, but that's hardly a bad thing when it does the same thing so darn well.
Shin Megami Tensei V is a triumph, boasting a stellar narrative and combat system with unique style all its own.
Resident Evil 4 VR is a brilliant port of an already fantastic game and the ideal way to experience Capcom's classic
There’s no need to change what works already, though a few additional gameplay flourishes could have helped AoE 4 feel more fresh and exciting. The campaigns are robust, but the missing content stands out in its absence. That’s especially true considering Age of Empires 4 is a full-priced release, though being on Game Pass makes it a more appealing prospect. What’s here is still more than enough to be getting on with, but lIke any good strategist, World’s Edge is planning ahead for the long game.
Dying Light on Switch is the same old Dying Light, which means it's one of the best survival horror games - just portable.
Far Cry 6 prefers playing guerrilla over more serious reflection because “blowing up s*** is fun,” and Ubisoft just isn’t quite ready to give that up yet.
Astria Ascending has the makings of a unique RPG but never builds on its strengths to rise above average.
Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania is the best of classic Monkey Ball with some fantastic new touches to keep things interesting, though accessibility takes a back seat in these remakes.
Out of humble materials, Odd Bug Studios have created a rich, beautiful, and thrilling fantasy world in Tails of Iron.
Life Is Strange: True Colors ultimately doesn't understand the emotions it tries addressing and lets its characters down in the process.
Tales of Arise heralds a brilliant new dawn for the series and is one of the best RPGs of the last generation.
Psychonauts 2 is a brilliant, thoughtful sequel and one of the most creative experiences of the last generation.
Garden Story reaches for the sun with its bold stalks, but a shallow root system robs it of the stamina needed to fulfill its lofty dreams.
Despite a few pacing issues, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles takes the series to new heights with its splendid characters, storytelling, and setting.
Skyward Sword HD on Switch still suffers from backtracking and gimmicks, but its clever dungeons and engaging narrative make it one of the best games in the series.
Disgaea 6 isn't a massive change for the long-running series, but the substantial improvements it brings means it doesn't have to be either.
Scarlet Nexus is slick, stylish, smartly executed, and just all-around cool.
Intergrade's Episode Yuffie may be short, but it's a significant step up in Remake's storytelling and renews my faith in the remaining chapters.
Biomutant doesn't deliver on some of its more interesting promises, but its earnest, bizarre world is still a joy to get lost in.
Shin Megami Tensei 3 remaster might show its age in some places, but its narrative excellence remains unaltered.