Michael Higham
Phantom Liberty embodies the best of Cyberpunk 2077 for a thrilling RPG-shooter with an evocative story, compelling side content, and unforgettable conclusions.
Bethesda's spacefaring adventure has its moments with impressive scale, satisfying combat, and some worthwhile side quests, but its shallow RPG systems and uninspired vision of the cosmos make for a journey that's a mile wide, but an inch deep.
FFXVI is a bold shift in both gameplay and narrative, yet captures the Final Fantasy magic in stunning fashion, earning a place within the pantheon of incredible entries in the beloved franchise.
Bayonetta Origins is a beautiful storybook brought to life as an imaginative action-adventure full of childlike wonder and endless charm.
Although Like A Dragon: Ishin is dated in some respects, the gripping drama and spirit of Yakuza makes for an enticing historical fiction.
Hi-Fi Rush marches to the beat of its own drum with stunning animation, loveable characters, and stylish rhythmic action that are anything but one-note.
NEO TWEWY is an eccentric action-RPG with an endearing youthful attitude, though its narrative lulls can obstruct its best moments.
Though antiquated in some respects, Nier Replicant will tear your heart out with its timeless story, endearing and tragic characters, and beautiful soundtrack.
Persona 5's RPG elements thrive in action-based combat, and while the story may not hit hard, the Phantom Thieves haven't forgotten what they're about.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon's cast of misfits makes the wild RPG combat, absurd humor, and dramatic storytelling soar.
NBA 2K21 still manages to capture the art of basketball, but it's largely the same dance as years past.
Valorant hooks you match after match with tight, tactical gameplay, albeit in rather barebones fashion.
Through its vivid sketchbook art style and sharp writing, If Found gives a powerful, affecting story about empathy and acceptance as a young adult.
Project DIVA MegaMix is another great collection of Vocaloid hits for the rhythm game series, and it's in excellent form on Switch.
By refining what was already great and building on its best qualities with a brilliant new story arc, Persona 5 Royal asserts itself as an unforgettable and empowering RPG.
Half-Life: Alyx is a tremendous VR experience that captures and elevates what makes the series special.
The sights and sounds of Indivisible, and its blend of action-RPG and 2D platforming, win your heart, though its pivotal moments let you down.
Nintendo Switch exclusive Astral Chain elevates the stylish action genre with an inventive, gratifying combat system and an unrelenting sense of style.
The co-op Wolfenstein spin-off lives on Switch, but inconsistent frame rates and visuals make it the weakest version.
The Blazkowicz sisters steal the show in a bite-sized cooperative spin-off FPS that packs a hell of a punch, further invigorating the franchise.