Shin Megami Tensei V is a triumph, boasting a stellar narrative and combat system with unique style all its own.
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.
Mario Party Superstars is the best of classic Mario Party in one package, and it's just as glorious as it's ever been.
Despite some rough edges, Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are the best of modern and classic Pokemon.
Final Fantasy 5 Pixel Remaster still isn’t the ultimate way to play the game. That would be the Game Boy Advance version of it, thanks to the bonus classes and character portraits. However, it’s still a fantastic RPG, elevated by its spirit of fun and an absolutely gorgeous soundtrack. Whether you’ve played another version before or not, it’s definitely worth experiencing.
A refreshing take on the survival sandbox with a robust approach to progression and countless ways to tackle each mission. Sadly, harsh penalties, bugs, and crashes combine to make this a frustrating off-world expedition.
Dying Light 2 is messy and uneven. It’s also unique, exhilarating, and just plain fun to play, with one of the best settings in recent memory – despite the nagging feeling that the game could, and should, be more than what it is.
Pokemon Legends Arceus is the most imaginative and absorbing Pokemon to date, though Hisui itself is disappointingly bare.
Warhammer 3 is, frankly, an incredible package. It somehow manages to deliver multiple unique and satisfying campaigns, mostly without sacrificing their quality and depth in the process.
Ota Imon has something interesting to say with Wolfstride. I just hope it finds the right voice to say it with next time.
Horizon Forbidden West could be much more, but what's here is beautiful, cleverly designed, and just plain fun to play.
Triangle Strategy is one of the cleverest tactics games around, with an intriguing story, rewarding choices, and (mostly) excellent stage design.
Chocobo GP is built for fun but needs time and some more attention before it can really take the pole position.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is still a champion among fighting games, though the story holds it back from overwhelming victory.
Rune Factory 5 has one of the best casts and writing in the series, but a batch of performance and presentation issues spoil the crop.
Ghostwire Tokyo's charm, bizarre world, and engaging story shine in spite of the rather empty world.
The Force Unleashed on Switch is a good port of a rather dreary game by today's standards.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising is a charming if tedious RPG that probably shouldn't have been an RPG.
Mario Strikers: Battle League is a fun and chaotic experience let down by a lack of content and personality.
Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes is a superb "equal" that builds on Three Houses in the best possible ways.