EIP Graves
The Callisto Protocol might be treading familiar ground, but it does so with such mastery that it turns it to sacred ground. It perfects the goals that Dead Space first set out to achieve, reaching the peak of the survival horror genre when it comes to gameplay, art direction, storytelling, and — of course — horror.
Rogue Trader is a near-perfect encapsulation of 40k. Its dark-but-pulpy story puts you in the position to make tough choices with no right answers, its combat is a healthy mix of TTRPG and game balance, and the amount of content on display is jaw-dropping. The Emperor has blessed Owlcat Games.
Gotham Knights has a lot more to offer than meets the eye. It cannot be denied that the game is already dated, technically inefficient, and full of bizarre choices. Still, I cannot help to praise all it does right, especially that which has gone ignored by critics in favor of easy nitpicks and criticisms. The combat mechanics and worldbuilding are a special highlight.
With terrible, nigh-unplayable gameplay, a story that could generously be called "so bad it's good", and uninspired art direction, Kukoos: Lost Pets is an ugly slog of a game, fit for "Worst of the Year" accolades. These pets should be put to sleep.