Thomas Cunliffe
Stalker 2 is a game as frustrating as it is captivating, delivering an immersive world and gripping narrative, but its performance, technical issues, and poor AI hold it back from reaching its full potential. Dedicated fans will undoubtedly find brilliance here, but for now, it's a flawed gem that may shine brighter with future updates. Review copy provided by company for testing purposes.
Whether you’re a casual gamer with a soft spot for Indiana Jones or a fan of cinematic action-adventure titles, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has something for everyone. The game’s customizable difficulty settings and accessible mechanics ensure players of all skill levels can enjoy the adventure. However, don’t expect to spend hours cracking intricate puzzles and riddles — the Great Circle leans more into its action, narrative, and authenticity than brain teasers.
Sonic x Shadow Generations combines a remastered Sonic Generations with a fast, fluid, and fun Shadow-focused adventure that steals the show. Shadow generations introduces unique abilities, satisfying gameplay, an incredible soundtrack, and flawlessly crafted levels to produce the ultimate 3D platforming experience. While both games are relatively short, the combined pair offers unbeatable value that's a must-play for fans.
SteamWorld Heist II is a captivating blend of strategy and action that delivers a truly solid experience. The game's turn-based combat is a highlight, offering a satisfying mix of planning and execution, and the job system adds to character progression and customization. Mission rewards and necessary backtracking can detract from the overall enjoyment and pacing, but if you don't mind a bit of a grind, then SteamWorld Heist II is definitely worth checking out.
Last Epoch delivers an innovative ARPG experience with exceptional build customization and accessible crafting, bolstered by its refreshing time travel mechanic. However, a weak narrative, limited character customization, and a repetitive endgame loop somewhat hold it back.
WarioWare: Move It! utilizes the Joy-Con to its full potential, delivering the quick-paced, quirky fun you'd expect from such a brilliant franchise. While Story mode is a blast, the game only offers a few hours of content outside its clever but somewhat disappointing multiplayer. Move It! won't replace a certain red-hatted plumber's party and family game staples any time soon, but Intelligent System's creativity is something to be applauded.
MythForce looks stunning and perfectly encapsulates the look and feel of '80s action cartoons. Unfortunately, its repetitive gameplay loop, frustrating stamina mechanic, and unrewarding progression system spoil what could've been an exceptional game.
With engaging combat, an immersive atmosphere, and a compelling story, Diablo IV rekindles the flame of one of Blizzard's most beloved franchises. Though the current live service content plan somewhat hinders its potential, Diablo IV will satisfy the hunger of series veterans and any new player seeking a quality action RPG.
Overall, Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are perfectly decent Pokémon games, but feel like a significant step back when compared to newer titles and the quality of previous Pokémon remakes. It relies too heavily on the Pokémon formula always providing a decent game, but doesn't bring much else to the table.
Riders Republic is a fun game that offers a wide range of exhilarating and unique activities that mostly benefit from its 'always online' gameplay model, but also suffers from a few shortcomings. The world feels alive, the Events are a blast and the game looks gorgeous. However, some aspects of the game are a little lacking at launch, namely the multiplayer modes, customisation and air sports.