Coming off of a remarkably strong year for the genre, Tekken 8 continues the trend of excellent fighters for this console generation. It's a visually dynamic and enjoyable to play title that will be a part of the scene for years to come. I just wish there were more options for single-player modes.
Nex Machina is another impressive addition to the portfolio of Housemarque. It's a top-tier shooter with dazzling visuals that never lets up on the action.
Murder By Numbers is a satisfying adventure that will delight any fan of Picross. The visual novel aspect gives the game a unique angle for the genre, and the personable art design leaves a great impression. If you're looking for a way to test the waters on Picross, this is a great way to do so.
Huntdown is a blistering and blood-soaked adventure that may look retro but feels remarkably modern. The title takes the basic formula of the sidescroller and tweaks it with notable improvements such as a cover system and boss battles that require more than just brawn. The genre may be flooded with similar romps, but Easy Trigger Games' effort stands out.
Shin Megami Tensei V is an excellent, although quite punishing, RPG. The brutal challenge it possesses and bleak story may not make it a crowd favorite. Finding the right balance between Law and Chaos is not as clear as you may think. However, it's due to their uncompromising decisions that Atlus continues to be one of the best RPG developers around.
Tetris Effect: Connected is the best version of one of the top releases of 2018. The multiplayer additions are all excellently designed, with Connected Mode being one of the best co-operative experiences out there.
The King of Fighters XV may lack the bells and whistles of its more famous contemporaries, but it makes up for that with strong combat mechanics and online play that manages to keep up with the fast-paced action the series is known for.
While still a fun and accurate depiction of America's pastime, MLB 15: The Show does little to move the franchise forward, and is hampered by the same recurring online issues.
Despite the creaks and cracks of the franchise beginning to show, Dead or Alive 5: Last Round is a solid and content-rich debut for the series on current-generation consoles.
While it may not be the most original title around, Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris is an excellent and incredibly fun multiplayer experience.
Despite some wonky mechanics and frustrating gameplay, Styx: Master of Shadows is an excellent throwback to the glory days of the stealth genre.
Boasting colorful visuals and slick puzzles, Chariot is a unique and enjoyable adventure that is best experienced with a good friend.
Although punishingly difficult, Road Not Taken's charming graphics, engaging story and unique gameplay make it more than worth the pain.
Although it may be a tad short, MouseCraft is a fun and inventive puzzler that will provide the brain with a solid workout.
Boasting addicting gameplay and tight mechanics, Spy Chameleon provides more than enough content to justify its cheap price tag.
Unepic may lack the technical and graphical polish of its modern contemporaries, but the plethora of customization options and lengthy questing it features are more than enough to make up for its shortcomings.
While it could have used a handful of additional levels, Kalimba's challenging gameplay, humorous story and colorful visuals help it stand out from the crowd.
Despite some technical hiccups and a few nagging issues that were carried over from the original series, Halo: The Master Chief Collection is an excellent and remarkably well put together compilation.
While the many tools provided in Project Spark may not appeal to everyone, their combined potential makes the game worth looking into.
Boasting intelligently designed puzzles and a gripping narrative based around powerful themes of isolation and identity, Q.U.B.E: Director's Cut is an excellent addition to the puzzle genre.