A.J. Maciejewski
Rogue Legacy 2 is simply one of the best indie games ever. It manages to stay true to the original while forging its own identity in ways that make it stand out as unique and ultimately superior. You'd be a complete goof if you don't enjoy every second of it.
Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy may not be a title on everyone's lips but it's certainly game of the year material. With a wide variety of abilities and mechanics and astoundingly adaptive gameplay (especially for co-op play), it's quite the achievement in game design.
Baldur's Gate 3 is an outstanding achievement in game design, character-based storytelling, and player choice. So, if you've been hesitating to play it like I have then don't be a goof and check it out already; you almost certainly won't regret it. ⚔️
If the idea of some old school 2D action with a new school twist arouses your curiosity then you will probably fall in love with Rogue Legacy.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a top-notch example of what a 2D platformer should be so if you missed out on it last generation, now's a fantastic time to finally enjoy it in all its potassium-rich glory.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an absolute joy to play as it's an undeniably rewarding adventure set in a deeply immersive world.
Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom is a phenomenal game and one of the best Metroidvanias ever made.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is the definitive stealth gameplay experience.
Super Mario Odyssey is an incredible adventure that every Mario fan and Switch owner needs to experience.
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a top-notch flight combat game with one of the best VR implementations that you'll ever have the joy to experience.
Blaster Master Zero was a phenomenal remake of an 8-bit classic so being able to finally enjoy a true sequel is an absolute treat.
Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince is a masterclass in 2D puzzle platforming.
With so many JRPGs remaining stagnant or trying to appeal to the masses, Atelier Ryza stands tall amongst its peers as a truly amazing experience.
As a long-time fan of grid-based dungeon crawlers, I'm delighted to say that Saviors of Sapphire Wings and Stranger of Sword City Revisited are 2 of the best examples of what the genre is capable of. If you love a challenge, I highly recommend picking up this pack.
It Takes Two is a cooperative gaming experience like no other. Its gameplay sometimes takes a back seat to the overall spectacle of the adventure but even when that happens, it's hard not to enjoy every minute of this incredible journey.
With its frantic new modes and spot-on gameplay, playing Mario Golf: Super Rush is the most amount of fun I've had with a sports game in a very long time. Throw in that iconic Nintendo charm and comprehensive multiplayer and you're left with a hole-in-one.
After playing a couple of great AAA 3D platformers earlier this year, I'm absolutely blown away that I enjoyed Kena: Bridge of Spirits even more. With thoroughly challenging fast-paced combat, rewarding puzzles, and a breathtaking world; it's one phenomenal game.
As a fantastic representation of perhaps the most underrated series in platformer history, KLONOA Phantasy Reverie Series is a must for anyone with a soft spot for lighthearted yet tricky puzzle platforming fun. I hope this means KLONOA 3 will be a thing at some point!
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 continues the series' grand-scale story-telling in a masterful way. With its endearing cast of characters, awe-inspiring sense of exploration, and a soundtrack that will blow you away, this is yet another top-notch offering from Monolith Soft.
Everything in God of War Ragnarok is carefully crafted to create a superb experience both cinematically and when it comes to gameplay. It may not break any new ground in the world of gaming but what's here is still undeniably awesome.