Dead Island 2 failed to stand out as the original game did since there are now a good amount of zombie-themed titles that are more than capable of scratching this particular itch. It feels so late in the game that other games like it have evolved and experimented with different concepts while this series is still trying to get back on its feet. 

Minecraft Legends is a fun strategy built around the Minecraft world, and it’s easy to grasp. Fans will get a kick out of the base campaign (especially with a friend or two), It just has its limitations and mechanics that could lead to frustration.

Resident Evil 4 is another example of why I appreciate remakes, as it revitalizes the love for a beloved title. This game was delivered in such a way to not only appease veteran fans but also to welcome those who have experienced the series only through the previous remakes.

If a hardcore rhythm game where cardboard cutouts of Cloud, Lightning, Vivi, and Terra leap into the air to critical attack and dance at the end of songs sounds like your jam, you’ll most definitely enjoy tapping and sliding as you headbang through Theatrhythm Final Bar Line.

While Sonic Colors Ultimate is still plagued with a few frustrating moments, Sonic veterans know that these games are platformers at heart and not just a quick dash to the finish. If you’re a fan of the blue blur, it’s worth giving this game a shot.

Metroid Prime Remastered goes above and beyond to provide the best possible experience for the player. It is an incredible remaster in every sense of the word. In fact, it may rank alongside Rez HD as one of the best HD remasters I’ve ever played, as it is incredibly faithful to the original, more accessible, and beautiful both visually and aurally.

Like a Dragon Ishin! is a game that you'll definitely enjoy if you've already fallen in love with Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's tried and tested formula, as everything that made Yakuza such a hit series feels intact. It just has a few issues with some features that aren’t fleshed out enough to really show its true potential.

Hi-Fi Rush was a good start for 2023 as this was a masterfully-done rhythm action game that we have not seen or played before. It’s one of those gems that only come around once in a blue moon, and while I know 2023 just started, I would without a doubt put Tango Gamework’s latest work as a Game of the Year contender.

The fact that the developers implemented so many quality of life changes while simultaneously maintaining the game’s charms with such finesse makes Tactics Ogre Reborn stand tall and easily become one of the biggest surprises this year, as I didn’t think I would have so much fun with a strategy RPG released over 25 years ago.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s rough quality is unacceptable. I hope that Game Freak and Nintendo will work quickly to patch the performance after all this ruckus, but even if it somehow ends up running smoothly enough to not be headache-inducing, I doubt I will ever revisit this game.

The developers have thrown everything but the kitchen sink at Bayonetta 3, which features the largest amount of playable characters, playstyles, and demons of any title in the series. But can Platinum, who’ve had better times, manage juggling so many balls at once?

I’m very happy that I gave Little Witch Nobeta a chance. This is a third-person action title with a nimble mage that focuses on precision movements and timing, as well as using your wits to not get trapped by hard-hitting foes. It accomplishes its goal with aplomb.