Resident Evil Revelations 2 strikes the perfect balance between new and old. Returning plot threads and the emphasis on ammo management will please franchise veterans while anyone can appreciate the thrill of intimate monster encounters and distressing boss battles. With a repayable campaign, multiple protagonists, and a lengthy raid mode all for a bargain price, there's plenty to keep fans coming back.
While Hardline isn't the Battlefield you may be used to it offers a unique approach that will surely please fans of the genre. The campaign is a big step up from previous entries and while the multiplayer anarchy has been trimmed down, the gameplay in its place is more tactical and intimate.
Mario Party 10 feels like waiting in a line that never moves forward. It's completely possible to go through an entire match as a passive observer and still win first place. Occasional mini-games spice things up but their appearance is far too rare. Don't RSVP to this party.
MLB 15: The Show has enough subtle additions to gameplay and graphics to keep returning fans satisfied. Online issues have been addressed, there's more customization and control than ever before, and the addition of legends will please baseball purists. Even if you're a newcomer this season, look no further than this year's solid entry in the storied franchise.
Mortal Kombat X is another superb entry in the franchise. Balanced combat is at the forefront of this beautiful fighter, and it offers a variety of ways to play. Brutal fatalities, and the promise of crossovers like Jason Vorrhees and Predator on the horizon ensure Mortal Kombat X will be a champion for the foreseeable future. Regrettably micro-transactions tarnish the experience even if they don't present any real competitive advantage. Still, when battling it out in story mode, towers, or with friends, Mortal Kombat X is a premier fighting game that shouldn't be missed.
While the novelty eventually wears thin due to lack of variety, Not a Hero offers its share of moment-to-moment thrills. The simple tactical action is sure to please players in the mood for its quirky vibe and pulp setting.
Madden continues to improve upon its solid foundation with worthwhile additions like Draft Champions. Most importantly the offensive changes bring more strategy and depth to the core gameplay that makes this one of the more engaging Maddens in recent years.
It's evident Bungie has been listening to fan feedback this last year and has worked hard to reinvent Destiny. The story is presented better than ever, the new subclasses offer different playstyles and draw players together, and the grind is alleviated thanks to a plethora of post-game missions and the Dreadnaught patrol zone.
Visual Concepts has done a commendable job with just one year of development. NBA 2K16 boasts many on-court improvements over last year, most notably on defensive that help create a better flow during games. Although the microtransactions devalue certain aspects of the game, and Pro-AM has connection issues, the on-court changes and additions are worth checking out for basketball enthusiasts.
Transformers Devastation is short, lacks depth, and can be a bit repetitive, but Platinum's tight combat paired with the old-school aesthetics keeps it fun. It may not be the dream Transformers game that some imagined, but it's worth a play, perhaps after it goes on sale.
Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water is old-school survival horror. While the story can be convoluted and the controls make navigation harder than it should be, it's dark take on death and atmosphere make it a ghost hunt worth taking.
WWE 2K16 strikes the perfect balance between technical wresting and Attitude Era brawling. Minor online issues hold it back, but the moment-to-moment flow of each match, the huge roster, and the stellar tribute to Stone Cold Steve Austin all combine to make this a must-play for anyone remotely interested in the WWE.