Guardian's Reviews
While titles like Witcher 3 and Metal Gear Solid V have innovated on the open-world adventure, Syndicate is stuck in the past, in more ways than one
Its on-disc soundtrack may be more filler than killer, but backwards compatibility, solid instruments and wig-out solos make it awesome
A new story in the world that they love, but one in which they're participating, not just watching – which isn't afraid to raise some sensitive issues around topics such as friendship. Roll on episode two.
How difficult could it be to build a jail and keep everyone inside? With this impressively detailed simulation, you're about to find out
Dimensions may be the best Lego game yet, but like the sweets at the supermarket counter, or those tantalising extras in the latest free-to-play smartphone game, it might prove most talented when it comes to causing friction between parent and child.
Nintendo's domestic design sim is as cute as you'd expect, but although the lights are on, there's nobody home
Puzzles are remixed, new areas added, and a link to a mobile app provides intriguing new features. Superb music and delightful visual design round out an unmissable package.
Soma tells an affective tale and carries the horror genre a few steps forward. Had Frictional shown the courage to shake off tradition entirely, it could have carried it further still.
The original toys-to-life series is back with a new driving feature and some neat tweaks to the well-known formula
The shine of novelty may have worn off, after Bungie took a year to fix it, but what remains is – at last – a good game
Pro Evolution Soccer has closed the gap on its long-standing rival, but myriad teams and features keep this the season's standout player
Once you overcome the initial frustration engendered by Super Mario Maker's refusal to give you all its tools at once, it provides a wondrously moreish experience that will enthral a generation of tinkerers.
With competition from the likes of Driveclub and Project Cars, the franchise isn't quite the benchmark it once was, but it's damn good to see Turn 10 back on track with such impressive flair.
Madden 16 is an authentic, challenging simulation that explores key facets of the sport in new ways and adds much to the experience in the process.
Disney Infinity 3.0 does much more than just rely on Star Wars to sell units, though. Enhancements to combat, toy-box tools and vehicle handling combine with the new space dog-fights, racing and more generous cross-over characters to deliver just what fans of the series have been asking for.
The latest Metal Gear instalment somehow lives up to the hype and expectations, providing a luxurious cinematic gaming experience without equal
The road warrior provides a thrilling adventure, but the rust-ridden story can't keep up with the chase
Controls feel a little slower, slightly mis-translated, though the combat's core is still solid and visceral. But without any new content, this might be a better title for those who haven't played the original.
There are notable absentees. Two of Rare's best games, Donkey Kong Country and GoldenEye 007, are missing for licensing reasons; but despite this, for £20, it's hard to imagine any package as generous, charming and enticing as this beautifully constructed box set.
Although some puzzles are perhaps too simple, the strong storytelling and gorgeous visuals will draw anyone into this particular quest.