Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is not just a remake - but a triumphant tribute to the franchise and its fans. Seeing this game rebuilt from the ground up is an absolute joy to behold, making it one of the strongest RPGs to hit modern platforms in years. Not bad for a game designed over three decades ago.
With its unique take on exploration and deep yet accessible combat mechanics, Empire of the Ants is a gripping masterpiece of an RTS that is wonderous to behold, making it one of 2024's greatest stand-outs.
Sonic X Shadow Generations is a welcome remake that adds just enough to be worth a re-visit. This is the Sonic we have wanted, and Sega would do well to keep this mascot ticking to this beat.
Super Mario Party Jamboree is a slam dunk for Nintendo. In one of the finest entries from the franchise to date, these new gimmicks feel refreshing, while the booming roster helps keep this party popping at all times.
The Smurfs: Dreams is a functioning platformer, but never quite taps into enough of that magic to bring us an interesting experience to the namesake. They may be pretty, but these lands feel a bit vacant of charm and personality.
There is a lot to like about Echoes of Wisdom as its very intuitive and fresh. That said, inventive mechanics come with a cost of fluid game design, and some fans may find this one a bit tedious compared to other entries in the storied franchise.
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is a decent remaster that improves on its foundation, which is sure to be a delight to platformer fans everywhere.
Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics brings together a great piece of history in true form, surely to appease fans with its timeless charms and solid mechanics. While not updated, getting these titles on a new platform is sure to make any fighting fan burst into nostalgic joy.
Astro Bot is a modern masterpiece. Team ASOBI have created an instant classic here, reviving a genre for Sony while giving us one of the most enjoyable experiences to hit the platform in years.
Natsu-mon is a lovely summer getaway, with a ton of adventure packed that is sure to get you nostalgic as you catch bugs, fish, and take a break from your own reality.
While remasters are a common thing, this version of Star Wars: Bounty Hunter misses the mark with clunky controls and frequent crashes. Wait for a patch or dive into the original for a more authentic experience.
Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition is a nice flashback with some cool features, but still feels limited in ultimate approach and concept. You will love the nostalgia, but those who don't have a competitive itch are best to dig out their oldies.
Luigi’s Mansion 2 is a nice revisit, but doesn’t really have enough weight to carry its asking price. It may be a fine title, but it shows it’s age a little too much to equate to a good value.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door on the Switch validates remasters, as it brings this fan favorite back to consoles with superb results.
Endless Ocean Luminous is not for everyone, but does offer a very rich and soothing experience for those willing to take the plunge.
SaGa: Emerald Beyond stands tall with its superb battle mechanics, which are just as addictive as they are enjoyable.
Princess Peach: Showtime! tells an interesting story in a realistic historical setting with some outstanding combat mechanics but lets its dated open-world design and poor performance drag it down.
Star Wars Battlefront Collection is a nostalgic blast from the past, but misses the mark with its included online mode. While it is worth a revisit, this is not the definitive way to play the classics.
WWE 2K24 doesn't do a lot to move mountains, but retains its status of head of the table with a ton of quality improvements.
Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island is an addictive, thought-out strategy title that will keep you climbing floors until your fingers give out - making it easily one of the finest roguelike titles to hit modern platforms in years.