Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar’s charming villagers and emphasis on selling items elevate the classic farm life. Wind-based crafting, fishing quirks, and stamina hurdles temper its addictive rhythm.
Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution delivers a vibrant blast from the past with endearing characters, colorful visuals, and the type of impressive gameplay that fans will adore.
Discounty is a colorful retail sim with addictive pacing but its shallow story and lack of depth leave it lacking, but it will still delight those looking for a different type of life-sim.
Mado Monogatari: Fia and the Wondrous Academy blends easy-to-grasp mechanics, colorful visuals, and endearing characters into a lighthearted, humorous dungeon crawler that might not be for everyone.
Mafia: The Old Country pairs simple, standard mechanics with a predictable mob narrative, but its gorgeous period setting and tight, story-driven run make for a thrilling experience.
Gratesca Studio and Serenity Forge’s Noctuary offers a gripping, emotional narrative in a richly detailed world and while the combat feels underused, its stunning visuals and story shine.
Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2 delivers a solid sequel: same core combat, expanded roster, and a fresh story mode combine for fan-pleasing action, even if it plays it safe.
Nova Hearts shows heartfelt intent but flounders in execution: stripped-down VN segments, rough romance, and clunky combat, snuff out its brief spark of potential.
No Sleep for Kaname Date offers strong puzzles, wonderful banter, and memorable characters for series devotees, though its simpler narrative and mild twists don’t match the main games’ intensity.
Dead of Darkness channels classic survival horror yet carves its own identity with a twisty story and sharp design. Combat and puzzles are serviceable but dragged down by cheap insta-kills.
Death Stranding 2 elevates every mechanic from traversal to combat, balances heartfelt drama with Kojima’s trademark oddness, and shines with breathtaking visuals, making it a near-flawless sequel.
Raidou Remastered transforms a forgotten Atlus action RPG into a near remake, offering engaging combat and a unique premise. Despite a weak story, fans and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy.
Chronicles of the Wolf mirrors classic gameplay so faithfully that, despite its rich atmosphere and engaging adventure, stiff controls and frequent frustration undermine the experience.
Scar-Lead Salvation feels unfinished, with a weak story, dull enemies, and generic environments. While movement and combat have appeal, shallow roguelike elements make its price hard to justify.
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma takes bold gameplay risks with mostly positive results. Despite AI quirks and weaker combat, its engaging story and lovable cast make it a worthy time sink.
Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon offers a dark, unique take on Arthurian legend with strong storytelling and engaging combat, but frequent bugs and crashes make for a frustrating experience.
Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny returns for a new generation, keeping its charm despite its dated aspects. While lacking major upgrades, its cast and refined combat still make demon-slaying a blast.
Death end re;Quest: Code Z had potential but fell short. Despite the returning cast and Sayaka's appeal, a weak plot and bland gameplay hold it back, making it a spin-off suited only for die-hard fans
The Precinct blends action with police simulation and a solid '80s aesthetic, but underdeveloped storytelling, rough mechanics, and bugs tarnish what could have been a standout experience.
Cooking Companions serves up dread masterfully, telling a chilling tale with multiple endings. Despite some nagging issues, its eerie atmosphere makes this indie horror game a juicy treat.