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When it comes to legacy JRPGs, few games in Square Enix’s catalog are as controversial as Chrono Cross. The closest comparison would likely be Final Fantasy VIII, a game with just as many detractors as ardent defenders. With that in mind, a re-release of the Chrono Trigger sequel, even one as robust and loving as Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition, was bound to be divisive.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, a Vanillaware title from 2020, is the ideal Switch port. Everything that makes this game great is enhanced by the Switch’s unique form factor. What was once a niche PlayStation exclusive becomes an essential experience for owners of Nintendo’s hybrid.
Moody and introspective, Promordia is another perfect addition to the Nintendo Switch’s ever-expanding library of point-and-click adventure games. While it falls prey to many of the traps of its genre, those who persevere will find gorgeous art, great writing and voice acting, and a surprisingly deep story.
Within my first thirty minutes of stepping into the George R.R. Martin-inspired world of Elden Ring, I opened up a booby-trapped treasure chest that flung me to—what I thought at the time was—the far corner of the map. I had no horse yet, nor a way to level up, and was surrounded by enemies that could kill me in one hit. Even so, I spent the next hour or so pushing onwards into this area I clearly wasn’t supposed to be in yet, in constant fear of a swift death at any moment. And I was loving every moment of it.
As JRPGs go, one could do far worse than this peculiar hybrid of two esteemed franchises (but, truth be told, one could do far better too).
Playing Weird West, the new game by fledgling studio Wolfeye and renowned publisher Devolver Digital, is like reading the Spark Notes version of an amazing story; there is so much to love about it conceptually, but the experience itself is stale and devoid of feeling.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands not only meets these expectations but at times exceeds them, masterfully evolving the fantasy world of “Bunkers and Badasses” into a sprawling yet focused adventure that hasn’t forgotten its roots.
For those looking for a more mature story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Crystar is sure to satisfy that itch. Just be sure to line up some podcasts or streams to enjoy while playing.
Ghostwire: Tokyo also offers a surprisingly robust education in traditional Japanese folklore and horror. As an open-world experience, the game is not without its flaws. But for the curious who are fortunate enough to own a PlayStation 5 (or decently specced-out PC), Ghostwire‘s unique storytelling and setting raise it to instant cult classic status.
Like a calm ocean wave on a foggy day, A Memoir Blue is a tranquil experience clouded by a mundane narrative. Treading a fine line between being an interactive point-and-click game and an animated short film, Cloisters Interactive has created a title that is short, sweet, and will only leave those expecting more sour.
While slow to start, once Triangle Strategy sinks its hooks into the player, it is nearly impossible to put down.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is still one of Persona’s oddest endeavors into territories outside the role-playing genre it continually elevates. In a way, Arena Ultimax is a brilliant two-way door into the strengths of its creative partners.
While countless other titles have pursued these same issues in today’s crowded cyberpunk market, Anno: Mutationem’s remarkably realized world and heart-pounding gameplay let it deliver something unique.
Tunic stands as a wonderful nostalgic adventure fueled by riddles and dark secrets.
Between unrefined gameplay elements and awful microtransactions, Chocobo GP will ruffle any racer’s feathers even if it can provide some minimal smiles and enjoyment.
From its beautiful art direction to its addicting loot system that respects its players’ time, Young Souls is yet another triumph for the beat ’em up genre.
Aztech Forgotten Gods' janky mechanics, hideous presentation, and drab narrative make for an experience worth going the way of the forgotten gods themselves—don’t waste space in your memory for this one.
Both welcoming to newcomers and a welcome evolution for old school enthusiasts, OlliOlli World is a radical skateboarding triumph for Roll7.
Brain vs. Brain is without a doubt the best scholarly battle the Big Brain Academy series has ever had to offer.
Gran Turismo 7 stands as a monumental return to form by providing a world-class driving simulator that strikes an excellent balance between brutal realism and approachable fun.