A nostalgic '90s throwback that's challenging, funny, cleverly designed, and shockingly attractive both despite and because of its ancient engine, which enables gigantic levels packed with detail. Chris J Capel
Three Kingdoms' first piece of DLC is largely more of the same, but that's no bad thing when the base experience is so good.
Initially unwieldy but eventually engrossing, Age of Wonders' latest entry translates its Civ-meets-XCOM formula brilliantly to a new sci-fi setting. Even if the elements of that sci-fi are a bit rote.Phil Iwaniuk
Considering it's 'only' a spin-off, this is a riotous and well-designed entry in the series - however, it's built with co-op in mind. Solo play is fun if flawed, but play with a friend, and you'll both have one of the best shooter experiences of the year so far.Chris J Capel
While the story's over-reliance on genre tropes keeps it from being truly groundbreaking, it's still among the best in MMOs, as is the new content. Shadowbringers is a great experience that could've been an amazing one.
There's more than just an endurance racing licence to distinguish Assetto Corsa Competizione from its predecessor. It's more polished, more precise, and offers more scope for long-term single-player satisfaction.Phil Iwaniuk
Struggles to do justice to what should be its show-stopper moments, but breathes much-needed life into the Khajiit and their homeland.Ali Jones
The mission design and story can grate at times, but this is a devilishly fun homage to Diablo 3 and Warhammer Fantasy you'll want to get your friends in on.Iain Harris
Changes on the battlefield don't make for a Total War experience to match historical and Warhammer entrants, but there's still a deeply involving strategic layer in Three Kingdoms that sits well with its licence.Phil Iwaniuk
One of the most engaging and original story-based games this year. It's dragged down by some trite videogame elements but its characters elevate it above its contemporaries.
The pace of id and Avalanche's FPS is neutered by a dull open world and thin story but, in an unbridled whirlwind of gruesome gibs, you probably won't care.
Although its light tutorial and lack of feedback throw it off balance, Rise of Industry's in-depth production tools and supply chain mechanics - not to mention waffle options - will meet the demands of any production sim fan.Rachel Watts
Sega's original sequel has received the remake it's due. The story fumbles in places, but its high points allow it to sit next to Yakuza 0 as the best the series has to offer.Kelly Pask
As Imperator grows in scale from its Clausewitz cousins, so too it grows in depth and ultimately in unwieldiness. But there's a grand strategy with aeons of play in it for you.Phil Iwaniuk
Its two campaigns offer deliciously bonkers fan service for the rats and a meaty strategic challenge for the lizards, deftly served with CA's usual care for the source material. A generous free update that profoundly improves the Skaven is the icing on the cake.Richard Scott-Jones
A vibrant snapshot of the Victorian era that's bustling with character, but doesn't explore the intriguing, seismic politics of the period.Robert Zak
Outward will appeal to people have enormous patience. But if that isn't you then it'll simply feel like a time drain. Jason Coles
Limbic has turned down its opportunity for revolución in favour of reinforcing the rule of El Presidente - a safe pair of hands for colourful city-building and wry commentary on the abuse of democracy.Jeremy Peel
Boasting the best swordfighting in the business, Sekiro is a game of rare but deserved self-assurance. You'll despair as it breaks you down, but then you'll exult as it builds you up. It's a journey like little else in gaming, and if you're up for the challenge, you absolutely have to play it.
The Division 2 is a substantial evolution on the mechanics of the first game, with a more immersive world to boot. This is an impressively complete game, with heaps to offer players across all of its content prongs and a level of polish that belies the size of the game's open world.