Whilst Mortal Kombat 1 has a lack of content, and a frustrating unlockable system, it is the most streamlined iteration to date. Refining the gameplay, the new kameo system, combined with a blockbuster story mode that has shaken the lore up, Mortal Kombat 1 is the most interesting it has been since Mortal Kombat 9.
Sumo Nottingham's fresh take on the asymmetric multiplayer genre is greatly welcomed. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers an intense horror experience when playing as the victims, and is equally as fun as chasing them down as the twisted Sawyer family. Faithfully capturing the iconic characters, and what made the original film so great, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a best in class of the genre.
Oxenfree II: Lost Signals may not be the most ambitious sequel, but it is certainly a great one. The atmospheric Pacific North West setting, Its incredibly authentic conversation system, well written and wonderfully realised characters, combine for a memorable follow up, that will resonate with those who enjoyed the original Oxenfree.
Other than playing as some of my favourite wrestlers, I struggled to find many redeeming qualities with AEW Fight Forever. The game is lacking in modes, match types, wrestlers, and creation suite options. Combined with a generic and alarmingly short career mode, AEW Fight Forever is far from elite.
WWE 2K23 sits at the head of the table as the best sports simulation game on the market. Fine tuning last year's entry to an impressive level of detail, and adding a layer of realism that is needed in a simulation game. With an array of modes, including the highly addictive MyGM, the introspective MyRise, the improved Showcase, and an extensive creation suite, wrestling fans will find themselves spoilt with WWE 2K23's offerings.
Some persistent technical issues that prove frustrating, an uneven campaign, and a formulaic open world can bog down an otherwise wonderful exploration of culture. Nonetheless, Tchia's unique gameplay elements, euphonious music, and often vibrant world make it worth checking out.
The Last Clockwinder utilises VR in a fun an interesting way, that never gets frustrating or overstays its welcome. Its limited scope works in favour of its world, but the otherwise relatable story being told only through audio recordings is a little disappointing. Regardless, The Last Clockwinder is a must play for PSVR2 owners.
Wild Hearts have dismantled the beast, and retrofit its parts into something more accessible and highly addictive in its own right. Obnoxious exposition and an uninspired narrative can sometimes get in the way of its well crafted gameplay loop, but the thrill of the hunt is more than worth it.
Mojiken's well crafted, charming small town, and it's handling of delicate subject matter, combined with its captivating narrative, carry you through to its bittersweet end, despite some pacing issues, and gameplay elements that feel out of place.
Chasing Static creates a strong sense of nostalgia as the appreciation of late 90's era horror games shines through. The game works well as a throwback, but it doesn't work as well as a horror game in its own right. More than that however it is ultimately let down by an abundance of overly familiar narrative choices. Minding that, fans of PlayStation 1 style horror should still find something to love.
Old Moon has crafted a delightfully atmospheric metroidvania, with satisfying gameplay, and endearing characters. Ghost Song boasts an intriguing narrative of self discovery, with a world of mystery that rewards exploration. Despite playing at its best too late in the campaign, Ghost Song is a beautifully somber, sometimes relatable experience, that I wasn't ready to leave by the time I had finished.
Moonscars is a standout example of what a 2D souls-like should be. From its beautifully atmospheric world, exceptional animations, to its fluid and gratifying combat, makes Moonscars an absolute pleasure to play. A best in class 2D souls-like.
Hardspace: Shipbreaker is an expertly crafted work simulator. The methodical dismantling of the ships is very satisfying. It contains an addictive gameplay hook and an intriguing story that focuses on the exploitation of workers. It is a job well done indeed.
Voyage marks a mostly successful debut for Venturous Games. A lack of variety in puzzles is only briefly felt, thanks to concise runtime. The sluggish movement may look better than it feels, but a strikingly beautiful and vibrant world makes Voyage worth experiencing.
Herobeat Studios set out to create a game that raises environmental awareness, and in doing so they have created a heartfelt message in the form of a very charming video game. Endling: Extinction is Forever lacks some variety, but tugs on the heartstrings, with an emotional story and genuinely asks the player to reflect on current environmental issues.
Life is Strange: True Colors is an incredibly endearing game, with a wonderful cast of characters and the charming town of Haven Springs proving to be a standout. Some narrative hiccups were not enough to stop this game from resonating with me, and one of my only complaints is that it was over all too soon.
Whilst Aliens: Fireteam Elite is lacking in some areas, and is not without its frustrations, it is a solid third-person survival shooter. The story won't pull you in, but the core gameplay is satisfying, fun, and addictive and that is what will ultimately keep you coming back. There is something here for fans of third-person shooters and Alien fans alike.
It will take quick decision making, precision platforming, and skill to beat Ghostrunner. Whilst many of its environments are dull in imagery, they are an important component as to why it plays so well. Its lacklustre story does not take away from the addictive, thrilling gameplay that will keep you coming back. Ghostrunner is an exhilarating, challenging, adrenaline pumping platformer that succeeds in making you feel like a cyborg ninja.
Whilst Hyper Scape has some interesting ideas that make for fun and thrilling gameplay scenarios, the game does very little to stand out amongst its competitors. Although it is lacking in personality and lore, future updates could allow Hyper Scape to carve out an identity of its own. However, currently, it will do little to pull you away from your preferred battle royale game, and if you're not a fan of the genre, it won't make you a believer.
The Alto Collection whilst somewhat repetitive is a joy to play. It successfully captures an ethereal beauty, which makes for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It combines being an addictive score chaser with accessibility, creating perhaps the best endless runner out there.