Ars Technica's Reviews
Tetris Effect doesn't skimp on the modes. The game ships with a grand total of 16 selectable modes, though we can whittle that down to roughly 10 discrete ways to play—which, hey, is still a crap-ton of Tetris.
RDR II's work cycle creates a forgiving system where, no matter what vocation you pick, you can figure out a way to bring in some cash. But it's also an extremely simplified version of the hardships people actually faced in the American wilderness. Even with the simulated elements to contend with, Arthur seems to have inhuman stamina, and a constitution that strains believability, even as it provides a firm foundation for the playspace.
A competent, carefully crafted but ultimately safe iteration in a long, storied franchise that, frankly, has much better entries. Yet it's also one of the most distinct Call of Duty games, an obvious bid at turning the series into a one-stop-shop multiplayer extravaganza—the only game Call of Duty fans will ever need. Until next year, at least.
Starlink is a great outing for folks of all ages. The toys are costly but well-made and great fun both in and out of game. Buy it.
Lots to stuff to do and pretty things to look at, but few fresh ideas. Try it.
Try it if you're looking for a novel take on a time-tested 2D gaming formula.
Try it. You don't need to play the previous games to enjoy this side story of turn-based tactics in a fantastical WWII. You will need a lot of patience for character archetypes and massive difficulty spikes.
If you're a fan of the series and are willing to go through the whole "expansion that fixes the game" thing again, buy it—now.
Shadow stands as near the best version of what it sets out to be. Luddington's finale is a grand one, and well worth it for fans of the series. Even if it can't quite manage to keep all its balls in the air.
Want a Marvel Studios twist on open-world superhero action? Then Spider-Man is a must-buy. Otherwise, try it.
Even a remake of perhaps the weakest Yakuza game in the series is hands-down a fantastic trip worth taking. Only skip it if you haven't finished Yakuza 0 and Kiwami yet.
Gnog is an extremely relaxing game about fiddling with surreal puzzle boxes. Its short length is well worth the price of admission. Buy it.
Skip The Crew 2 until a patch or five. Even then, maybe check to see if the handling has improved at all.
The best Sonic game in years is even better, if only just. Buy.
Buy it if you're looking for deep, twitchy multiplayer action. Try it if you'll be sticking to single player.
A solid framework for a game without any legs. Try it, or wait for an expansion to flesh things out.
A bundle of great ideas and characters, shackled by some abysmal mechanics. Try it, or buy it on sale.
Sexy arcade racing in serious need of a tune-up
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire is a broad, deep, and excellent RPG in the tradition of Baldur's Gate. And it has pirates. Buy it.