Using Astro’s Playroom as a template, Team Asobi delivered a bigger and better 3D platformer with Astro Bot. This latest series entry features creative levels and mechanics that are a joy to play. And while it’s accessible to players of all skill levels, it has enough challenges to satisfy platforming experts. To top it all off, it’s an excellent tribute to PlayStation’s various iconic and lesser-known characters. Even if Astro Bot doesn’t seem like the type of game that you’d play, it’s very much worth playing given the sheer fun that you can have with its creative platforming gameplay. As such, Astro Bot has the makings of PlayStation’s next big franchise.
There’s a lot to love about Gundam Breaker 4 as it returns to the roots of the franchise in successful fashion. This game provides lots of engaging combat encounters thanks to its tried-and-tested mechanics that it borrows from Gundam Breaker 3, albeit with new additions. Perhaps the best thing about it is the customization system which offers an addictive experience for Gundam fans and Gunpla collectors. It’s also great that the in-depth customization is great not only for combat but also for the Diorama and Photo modes which are cool additions. Plus, even more casual Gundam fans can have fun here as the story mode is quite engaging. Sure, the combat could be smoother, and the missions can feel a bit samey, but these are minor issues overall. As such, Gundam Breaker 4 is a great return to form for the series that Gunpla builders will definitely love.
In many ways, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: ISEKAI Chronicles is a fun game as its combo-focused 2D sidescrolling combat is fun, and it’s supplemented by a nice city-building mechanic that makes for a compelling gameplay loop. This game is far from perfect though as the core loop can instead feel dull for some players. Some issues with the fairly simplistic combat and city-building mechanic also get in the way of the experience. Still, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: ISEKAI Chronicles can be an engaging experience, though it’s one that we can only really recommend to existing Slime Isekai fans. For those who aren’t fans of the franchise yet, it would be better to give the anime a watch before trying this game out.
Demon Slayer: Sweep the Board adds some twists to the party board game formula, though its main mechanics could've been made more engaging by making them more competitive. Its mini-games could also be better as they're fairly easy. Still, the game should offer a good time for Demon Slayer fans, especially for in-person get-togethers.
SPY x ANYA: Operation Memories isn't the most exciting anime game as it's mostly about experiencing and taking pictures various scenarios with Anya with her family and friends. While it would've been better to see more original scenarios, the heartwarming moments will delight Spy x Family fans. Plus, the minigames are fun to play with family or partner.
Even though I haven’t had much experience with the series prior to playing Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble, I had a fun time with this game thanks to its simple yet challenging 200 levels. Having the various accessibility modes was also helpful for me given that I’m not particularly good at platformers. More than the solo experience though, Banana Rumble shines in multiplayer. The 16-player Battle Mode is nice to have, but its local co-op feature is what makes it worth checking out for Switch owners as it is definitely a great match for parties. Overall, this game should be worth a look for both long-time fans and those who are new to Super Monkey Ball like me. This Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble review was made with a Switch game code provided by the publisher.
Shadow of the Erdtree is another top-notch Souls DLC by FromSoftware as it features a massive and dense new map that's a joy to explore, all while adding tough unique bosses and a load of new weapons that will make you want to replay the game.
There are many ways to make a great remake, but Persona 3 Reload is probably one of the best examples of a faithful remake done right. Even though this game doesn’t reinvent the wheel when it comes to its core gameplay mechanics and systems, it adds small changes and enhancements that add up to make the experience feel fresh and engaging. Thanks to its great visuals, various quality-of-life changes, and updates to Social Links and other scenarios, Persona 3 Reload is now the definitive way to experience what is perhaps the best entry in the Persona series.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth improves upon the previous game’s JRPG gameplay, all while adding more loveable characters, tons of side activities, and a fresh new setting, making this game one of the best in the series yet.
The Last of Us Part 1 Remake features massive improvements over the PS4 remaster when it comes to graphics, gameplay, and accessibility. While it may not feel like a full-blown remake at times given how well the original holds up to this day, the game is still highly recommended, especially for those who have yet to play the original.
Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered is a solid PC port of a great game. While it may not be a groundbreaking open-world title, it still packs entertaining gameplay and a great story that will make for a fun experience. Plus, the PC version runs well on both high-end and low-end hardware that we tested.
The Skywalker Saga not only features an improved version of the classic Lego Star Wars gameplay, it also lets players experience the Star Wars saga in a fun and joyful way, as well as allowing them to explore the series' iconic locations thanks to large, semi-open world levels.
Ghostwire: Tokyo is a game with an excellent atmosphere and great visuals but is let down by average gameplay and a forgettable story.
Gran Turismo 7 is a racing game that has something for everyone, whether it's car lovers, motorsport enthusiasts, or casual players. Not only is the campaign back, it also features compelling core gameplay, and is an excellent technical showcase for the PS5.
Elden Ring might just be FromSoftware's masterpiece thanks to its perfected combat, incredible open world design, and some of the best in the Soulsborne series. This game is practically a 10/10 in terms of pure gameplay, though the noticeable framerate drops deduct half a point from its score.
Horizon Forbidden West is a worthy sequel to Zero Dawn. While the second game in Aloy's journey doesn't bring anything groundbreaking, it does come with a much bigger scale, all while introducing enhancements that make exploration easier and combat deeper. But the reason to play this game is to get lost in the deep world and lore.
OlliOlli World is a fun mix of skateboarding and platforming that, while challenging, is still accessible enough to make playing it more rewarding than frustrating. And while it may seem short at first, it the game more than makes up for this with its high level or replayability.
The Legacy of Thieves collection is well worth picking up, especially if you love the Uncharted series as it features a wealth of enhancements to two already great games. While the upgrade path could've been more generous, these two Uncharted remasters are still a great value for players who have yet to play either game.