Travis Bruno
Judgment may still feel a bit like its pulling too much from the Yakuza series but its brand new cast of characters, satisfying narrative that draws the player in, and just enough detective mechanics help it stand on its own merits.
Those looking for a new tactical RPG that harkens back to the classics of the genre will find that Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark manages to do that and more by creating a unique story that sets itself apart from the rest.
The Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy may not offer too much in the way of new content for returning players but it does offer the best possible experience for those who have yet to play these amazingly well-written games.
Steins;Gate Elite may have done away with its unique art style with this anime approach but it works incredibly well while still conveying the same impressive storyline as before.
Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition may have audio issues and hide some of its side-content behind odd obstacles but it still shines as one of the best games in the franchise and one that fans of JRPGs should not pass up.
The Quarry proves that Supermassive can still tell a satisfying lengthier horror story with more numerous variables and paths, begging players to see just what else it has to offer.
AI: The Somnium Files – nirvanA Initiative tells a satisfying tale with a great cast of characters, challenging puzzles, and a mystery that will keep players guessing with unique twists.
With the inclusion of a new difficulty option, F.I.S.T. Forged in Shadow Torch brings challenging combat and atmospheric world to more players resulting in an amazing example of the genre.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero proves it is just as impressive as recent entries in the franchise and gives longtime fans and even newcomers an amazing RPG that was worth the wait.
Tactics Ogre: Reborn remains an incredibly impressive strategy RPG with new enhancements making it all the better, though Square Enix’s smoothing filter does a bad job with the sprites.
Marvel's Midnight Suns’ story may be a bit on the safe side but character interactions, tons of side content, and an exceptionally enjoyable combat system make this a must play tactical RPG.
Dredge’s enjoyable gameplay loop of fishing, selling, and upgrading all set on an ocean where horrors await beneath the waves and beyond the fog makes for an unforgettable indie experience.
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective’s wonderful storyline gets new life in a remaster that offers a unique puzzle game that anyone interested in the genre should be playing.
Starfield is a truly impressive offering that just begs to be explored that will keep players coming back for easily over a hundred hours despite some rougher mechanics and design issues.
Separate Ways brings Ada Wong’s story into a new light while offering fresh feeling combat and unique encounters that make this expansion a great compliment to an amazing game.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 feels like natural progression for the spectacular series as Insomniac has taken the impressive elements of the original and expanded on them to create a riveting sequel.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R features the same classic story fans love combined with modern elements that make this enhanced release easily the best way to experience this beloved RPG.
Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless fixes the mistakes of the past and capitalizes on its humorous story and fun new mechanics to deliver an unforgettable SRPG that fans will adore.
Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy’s graphical upgrades and museum content is a delight for longtime fans looking to experience these well-written stories and memorable cast once more.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink offers a gorgeous experience with fantastic combat, fan-favorite characters, and a welcoming storyline that is hindered by excessive endgame grinding.