Nathan Misa
A Way Out is an ambitious co-op only, split-screen only adventure game with a compelling story, interactive environments and fun ideas that's a little messy in execution but fun with a friend.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance delivers on its ambitious promise for a realistic, grounded open-world medieval role-playing game, with engaging and complex gameplay systems, weighty and tactical combat and an interesting main story slightly let down by a lack of polish and technical issues on launch.
Monster Hunter: World is the best entry in the long-running action RPG series to-date, accessible for both new players and returning fans expecting the in-depth gameplay systems and rewarding hunt/craft/explore loop we all know and love.
Episode 3 of Life is Strange: Before the Storm provides a satisfying conclusion to Chloe Price and Rachel Amber's many emotional dilemmas, tying in neatly to the original series while presenting its own unique twists and turns.
L.A. Noire receives a straightforward remaster best suited for returning fans looking for a prettier image and new players wanting an ambitious open-world 1940s detective thriller.
A below-average Japanese hack 'n slash with repetitive combat and an over-reliance on fan-service and titillation to carry players through its cliche story and several cringe-worthy character interactions.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a continuation of everything that made Wolfenstein: The New Order work. A very strong character-driven war story, creative alt-history sci-fi setting and ultra-violent, immensely satisfying first-person shooter gameplay.
Life is Strange: Before the Storm - Brave New World is a emotional roller-coaster, but in a good way. Strong character development and genuine twists that make for a solid sophomore entry in this three-part prequel.
With the exclusive content from Bony Spirits and Fleshy Souls and all new content, Yokai Watch 2: Psychic Specters is the definitive release and best jumping point into the wacky JRPG series.
Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga + Bowser's Minions is a blissful trip down nostalgia lane thanks to its excellent graphical overhaul and engaging new side-content.
Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite is a serviceable, albeit disappointing fighting game release. Solid enough gameplay mechanics and flair dampened by a terrible main story mode, unappealing character designs and a lack of general polish.
Knack II is a fun beat 'em up platformer best suited for kids and families and shines best with its seamless co-op and more varied action-combat - the story and hero is still dull as ever, though.
Absolver is an ambitious and unique indie fighting game/action-RPG with ample character customisation, compelling PvE and PvP content and an engaging martial-arts focused melee combat system that rewards practice.
Episode 1 of Life is Strange: Before the Storm is a fun and well-written return to Arcadia Bay with similar complex themes, extensive character development and ‘hella' interesting high-school drama.
Dr Kawashima's Devilish Brain Training: Can you stay focused? is full of puzzle-solving exercises and creative mini-games perfect for convenient pick-up-and-play. For casual gamers and even non-gamers who enjoy genuinely challenging brain-teasers.
Hellblade offers an engrossing single-player cinematic experience coupled with Ninja's Theory's tight melee combat systems and responsive controls. An enthralling sensory onslaught for the eyes and ears.
Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood is one of the best MMORPG expansions in recent years, with a compelling and well-written main story, intriguing Far East setting, a wealth of new content and important QoL refinements.
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia is an excellent strategy role-playing game with thrilling tactical turn-based combat with some gameplay omissions which may split the existing fanbase.
Injustice 2 is the best fighting video game released this generation, with stellar single-player and online content, addictive gear and customisation options, fast and frantic gameplay and incredible graphics, all of which impressively realise DC Comics' most iconic superheroes and supervillains.
The Surge is a whirlwind of action-RPG fun with a fast and frantic melee-focused combat system, addictive loot systems and an immersive sci-fi horror atmosphere.