Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a stunning and immersive storytelling experience that really puts the player into the mind of its titular character. It's even more narratively-focused than the first game (not to its detriment), with a bigger emphasis on how Senua sees and interacts with the world around her. The whole experience from start to finish has been beyond memorable.
This highly addicting definitive edition of The Last Case of Benedict Fox was a blast to explore! The improvements to existing game mechanics as well as the additions of new story content, puzzles, and the arena complete the package, resulting in one of the best Metroidvanias I've played to date.
Banishers: Ghost of New Eden is a grim and gripping tale of two lovers coming to terms with love and sacrifice. Don't Nod have built another beautiful world to enjoy.
The Invincible is a beautiful visual representation of the novel of the same name written by Stanislaw Lem decades ago. You are immersed in the world through game mechanics and design that allow you to interact in unique ways. Unfortunately, the game still suffers from performance and technical issues that should have already been addressed in the time since the game launched.
The Talos Principle 2 is a philosophical puzzle adventure game that's also thought-provoking and has a deep narrative. It takes the foundation laid by the first game and expands on it in every way possible.
Detective Pikachu Returns is a heartwarming follow-up to the first game, though it does fall short in terms of depth and originality. Still, the overall experience is worth it for fans of the first game, and the movie, and for Pokémon fans in general.
Forza Motorsport really does create a platform that leaves an open track to expand on. This is the easiest Forza to get into and it performs at such a high level, you may forget it's just a game. There's nothing standing between you and the racetrack.
Amnesia: The Bunker is a truly terrifying experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat and your sanity. The overall experience is thrilling amidst all the horror, leaving me (almost) craving more. Almost.
Immortals of Aveum is a bright and ambitious title that lays a solid foundation for Ascendant Studios' future in the industry. The gameplay is solid, the world is beautiful, and I feel compelled to return to continue exploring.
WrestleQuest is a fantastic wrestling RPG adventure with fun and satisfying exploration, combat, and character development. The game does have a few wrinkles to iron out, however, whether you're a life-long wrestling fan or just a casual fan like me, WrestleQuest is a must-have. ¡Oh Si!
Viewfinder is a beautiful and heartfelt journey that challenges the player in different ways. Perspective means everything in this game, and the challenges you face will give you a whole different view on puzzle solving games. Each puzzle is interesting and never feels repetitive or overly complicated. This game is a ton of fun, I can't recommend it enough!
Park Beyond is a theme park simulation game from Bandai Namco that offers players a thrilling journey of creativity, strategy, and park management. The Impossification takes your park to the next level, making this a truly Amazing and Fun theme park building experience. The game does have a few bugs to be addressed, however, there's so much to love here for newcomers and players returning to the genre that they can be easily overlooked once you get hooked.
EA SPORTS F1 23 continues the series' legacy of being the definitive F1 racing experience for gamers. With the updates made to braking, accelerating, and cornering, as well as Precision Drive technology for controller players, the game plays smoother than ever and can easily be enjoyed by players of all skill and interest levels. Braking Point also makes a return with another drama-filled story.
Advance Wars 1+2 Reboot Camp is a wonderful recreation of a long-neglected classic. The games pull you right in with smooth and satisfying gameplay, a catchy art style, and tons of fun features for many added hours of play. Now the question is, when will we get the rest of the Advance Wars reboots?
Diablo IV represents a massive shift for the series, moving to a more inclusive and open world that is somehow as inviting for new players as returning veterans. Complexity is mixed with flexibility to create a game that is sure to consume you for hundreds if not thousands of hours. Diablo IV is the game we've been waiting for, and a return to form for the Blizzard team.
This game is downright adorable, and while I do wish there was more depth to it, there’s still plenty here to enjoy. Each world is randomly generated, so there’s tons of replayability, and you can play on different difficulties. I had a lot of fun running around and exploring, finding the map’s secrets and hanging with the locals. You’re able to team up with friends on any platform to help fight the piglins, or you can go head-to-head in PVP to test out each other’s defenses.
The wait was definitely worth it for this one! Overall, Ghostwire: Tokyo impresses me with fun and satisfying gameplay, an intriguing story, and beautiful visuals. I never had any issues with performance or pop-in, everything ran as smooth as a hot sake. The new mode, The Spider’s Thread, presents a fun challenge for those craving more Thread Weaving action that doesn’t get stale, even after multiple rounds (or deaths).
Batora: Lost Haven is a perfect fit for Nintendo Switch, sitting well alongside games like Immortals Fenyx Rising. The unique duality system makes for some interesting gameplay. There is a decent amount of replayability with the different endings, though you'll still be through with it fairly quickly.
Arenas is more geared towards those who like to challenge hunt and make completionist runs on games.
But, also, what does eating ramen have to do with music? The world may never know.