Dead Rising remains one of Capcom's most classic and ambitious games to-date, and the re-release is most welcome, even if a lack of new content or genuine remastering is present in the package.
Dead Rising 2 and its spin-off cousin, Off the Record are solid re-releases that lack vital DLC add-ons released years ago, bringing down the value of the ports somewhat.
Dragon Quest Builders combines the sandbox-crafting elements of Minecraft with the classic Japanese role-playing game systems of long-running series Dragon Quest, resulting in a fun video game spin-off that works. Aside from sometimes repetitive combat and personal preferences on its level of linearity, DQB is a game worth checking out for crafting-simulation lovers and fans of the classic JRPG franchise open to a new direction, but the lack of multiplayer is an omission which can’t be ignored when considering a purchase.
Civilization VI is a refreshing reminder video game franchises as classic as Sid Meier’s classic turn-based strategy series can keep evolving in complexity while still remaining accessible for players, both returning and new.
The pick-up-and-play nature of Rhythm Paradise Megamix always encouraged me to return for more and beat my previous record, and this is a key strength of its winning formula and why its replay value is so high. The multiplayer is extremely fun and easy to set up with just one copy of the game needed, and with tons of unlockables and throwbacks to older Rhythm Heaven entries, this is a 2016 Nintendo 3DS title which shouldn’t be missed by those who love the weird and quirky of Nintendo’s solid output.
World of Final Fantasy embraces weirdness and silliness to further itself from its more serious counterparts, while simultaneously revisiting the franchise’s classic roots to create something special. As a casual fan of the series who might not have recognised every single reference, it was still an extremely fun standalone entry. The addictive Pokémon-like monster capturing and training, combined with classic turn-based combat systems (which I love compared to real-time combat), was fun and in-depth, and complimented by a refreshingly upbeat and zany narrative which grew on me the more I played.
Watch Dogs 2 is a much stronger open-world hacking sandbox experience than the first. While not to the same level as Assassin’s Creed 2 which accomplished much for its similarly divisive first entry, this game’s more varied mission structure and lighter-hearted tone elevates it to a must play this holiday.
Hitman: The Complete First Season is the perfect re-introduction to the third-person stealth franchise, bringing back sandbox game design and player choice to the forefront with six expertly hand-crafted missions with hundreds of opportunities and ways to approach killing targets, and a ton of side content in the form of Escalation contracts and the Sarajevo Six (effectively “What If?” scenarios and missions). Newcomers will also find the full package of Season One a lot more digestible than the episodic distribution model which may have put off naysayers. Give it a fair go if you can fit it in your holiday gaming schedule.
Tales of Berseria is a return to form for the JRPG franchise, with a captivating main story of betrayal and vengeance, satisfying real-time combat and an amazing cast of characters.
Halo Wars 2 fills the niche for a console-accessible real-time strategy game admirably.
Torment: Tides of Numenera is a fantastically written and incredibly deep role-playing game with most of its strengths firmly in the narrative department rather than its turn-based combat gameplay systems.
Wildlands is a fun sandbox open-world shooter from Ubisoft Paris with a massive amount of content that is best experienced with other players in its seamless drop-in, drop-out four-player co-operative multiplayer mode.
With engaging social simulation gameplay, addictive turn-based combat systems and an unmatched visual style, Persona 5 is the ultimate Japanese role-playing game any PlayStation 4 owner, newbie or hardcore fan, should give a fair go in 2017.
Goofy physics-based indie fun in a bite-sized package, that's way more fun with couch co-op and catapults.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.