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It might be conventional as far as visuals and monsters go, but its overall appeal rests in its provision of a living world that can be sculpted and altered in ways both subtle and explicit. So long as you're prepared to put the required time in, Dragon Age: Inquisition has plenty to give.
While it's true that Assassin's Creed Unity lacks the polish we would expect from the series by now, it's bolstered by its fantastic location, interesting new mission types and deeper emphasis on customisation. This perhaps isn't the revolutionary release we were hoping for, but Assassin's Creed Unity takes some positive strides forward, delivering another stellar entry in the yearly series.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection is as close to a masterclass in the field of remastered collections as we've seen to date. It's lacking in some areas - like those pesky (just about) untouched versions of Halo 3 and 4 - and there's the odd glitch here and there, but that's just nitpicking. The interface alone (kudos to co-developer United Front Games, there) blows away these concerns, and you don't even shoot anything with that.
Sledgehammer Games hasn't reinvented the first-person shooter franchise, but it does give it a shot of adrenaline, making Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare one of the fastest, freshest and most thrilling entries yet.
Football Manager has always been more than a game, but it is also more than a football product. It's both of these things in equal measure and updates of this quality will ensure that its legacy remains strong within the sport and among its fan base.
Stealth Inc 2 is a remarkably well-crafted and well-paced platformer, and one of the most welcome surprises to arrive on the Wii U this year.
If you're hankering for a bit more Souls-shaped entertainment in your life, Lords of the Fallen can fill a gap. It can kill some time, provide some entertainment for a few hours. But its lack of subtlety in its mechanics, it's rather clunky nature and its somewhat dull, basic setting mean it will never be more than a decent distraction
Sunset Overdrive is not lacking in enjoyable moments and ideas, but the overall package doesn't manage to live up to the billing publisher Microsoft has thrust upon it. This is not a revolution as far as open-world games go, it's more of a compendium of recognizable elements that have been twisted just enough to make them seem new and different for the uninitiated.
By sticking to tried and tested survival horror staples, The Evil Within effectively creates a sense of tension and fear, something which makes the descent into darkness all the more terrifying.
When everything clicks into place (and sometimes it will), Fantasia: Music Evolved is a delightful experience that's part rhythm action, part exploration. It's a game capable of delivering real moments of magic, but is too often marred by inconsistent Kinect controls that can turn those feelings of joy into frustration.
NBA 2K15 builds on the foundations laid down by its predecessors, providing an all-star basketball experience marred only by online issues.
Heavy investment is required to maximise the game's potential, and the burning question is whether Skylanders: Trap Team is worth the various upgrades on offer. To its target audience of collectors and Skylanders fanatics, the answer is yes. This is another endearing and inventive addition to the fold, but those unwilling to delve into the game wholeheartedly should probably give it a miss.
Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers - 20th Anniversary Edition is the same great game that won over adventurers two decades ago, complete with shiny new visuals, enhanced sound and some interesting bonus features. This a remake done right and the care and attention that has been invested in it will delight existing fans - hopefully winning over some new ones, too.
It may not be wholly original, but thanks to a compelling Nemesis System, Shadow of Mordor forges its own unique path, which marks it out for praise.
It's a frantic game packed with stunning set-pieces, thrilling boss battles and a fantastic combat system, even if it doesn't deviate too far from the original.
'Curse of Naxxramas' is an expansion positioned towards more seasoned players, acting as welcome respite from the climb of the Ranked ladder or the unpredictable gauntlet of the Arena, and rewards with powerful cards you'll keep using long after it's over.
Driveclub isn't necessarily the innovative or revolutionary game that we were expecting, but that doesn't make it a bad racer. Far from it. It is a visually impressive game with a clean, straightforward progression system, interesting courses and enough user-friendly social features to keep clubs entertained for the foreseeable future.
After years of fumbling with the license, it's refreshing to see Sega finally deliver a game worthy of the Alien branding.
It keeps you on edge just enough to pique your curiosity for what the next mystery will bring, and marries that mystery with an eerily beautiful world worth being curious about.
While fundamental gameplay problems make it difficult to create a truly exceptional gaming experience, Disney Infinity 2.0's real strength lies in the creation aspect itself, something which makes it ideal for a younger audience.