Ben Reeves
BoxBoy + BoxGirl hits the sweet spot with a series of puzzles that aren't too hard, but occasionally make you think
A Dark Matter's simple puzzles are a nice diversion, and exploring Fireproof's creepy world is thrilling
Mastering Crash's aerial acrobatics is highly rewarding, but the journey to get there is occasionally frustrating
These puzzles are harder than those in the base game. Thankfully, they also feel fair and rewarding, and offer puzzle fans something to dig their teeth into
A series of small tasks makes Stellaris easy to jump into, but hard to put down without completing that "one last thing"
This is as close as you can get to visiting an actual theme park without leaving your home
These high-flying brawls deliver on the spectacle and the action has a great flow, but the main story mode leaves a lot to be desired
Complex and interwoven systems can be daunting, but building an empire remains incredibly rewarding
To the Moon is incredibly story-focused. Fortunately, that tale is powerful and heartfelt
Far: Changing Tides isn’t an action-packed roller coaster ride – it’s a contemplative journey that isn’t afraid to slow down and ask you to reflect on your expedition. Of course, this adventure is full of challenges to overcome. But whether I was watching the clouds glide over a flooded city with the wind at my back or white-knuckling through a storm as ten-foot waves bombarded my ship, I was always completely enrapt by the moment. It’s a journey I hope to take again someday.
Crunching Koalas' clever puzzle game feels like a healthy brain workout that should leave puzzle fans with a great natural high
The fighting system has a bit of a learning curve to overcome before you can appreciate the combat
Thief's sneaking challenges are highly rewarding when you ghost through the world undetected, but will send you to the loading screen repeatedly if you're not careful
A strategic experiment in eugenics that could benefit from more attention to the fine details
Freeform exploration can be tedious, but the tense moments will have your heart racing
Captain Toad's treasure laden levels are bite-sized, stress-free puzzles packed with surprises.
Invisible, Inc. is like a tense game of hide and seek, except the repercussions for being found are deadly
A series of flamboyant action sequences and a proven combat formula make this a solid choice for action fans
Galak-Z is the perfect game to play in short bursts. Its random nature means the balancing feels off, but the tight combat will keep you coming back
Stephen's Sausage Roll isn’t flashy, but those who love cracking tough puzzles should rise to this challenge