Brandon Zachary

Bubsy 4D is a throwback to an older era of 3D platforming that can be a lot of fun -- even as it struggles with the genre's limitations.

Little Nightmares translates well to the VR space with Altered Echoes, with the strong sense of atmosphere making up for some wonky controls.

People of Note's minor

Legacy of Kain: Ascendance is a clever concept for a retro take on the vampire franchise, but game design flaws undercut the final game.

The expansive world, strong gameplay, and vivid art design make Grime II a genuinely terrific take on the Metroidvania genre.

RUSHING BEAT X: Return of Brawl Brothers benefits from a vivid world and retro heart that helps overcome some gameplay stumbles.

Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War! is short and sweet, with a strong satirical core that feeds easily into the underlying dark comedy.

Poker Night at the Inventory's remaster is a charming return for the fan favorite game, with the charm overcoming the repetitive gameplay.

Charming worldbuilding, clever bosses, and tight gameplay make the retro-inspired Under the Island an absolute delight.

Lost Ember: Rekindled is a terrific refreshing of one of the most gorgeously rendered narratives in recent memory.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a short and sweet superhero throwback that is also one of the best "Beat 'Em Up" games in years.

Developed by Squid Shock Studios and the final game to be published by Humble Games, Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus is an artistically minded MetroidVania riff that benefits from gorgeous visuals. A foundational genre of previous eras that has endured thanks to inventive reimaginings and stylish updates, the mix of natural exploration, varied combat...

Winter Burrow is an adorably cozy and visually appealing riff on the survival genre that is a bittersweet but enjoyable experience.

Anno 117: Pax Romana lacks the depth of other sims, but a streamlined approach, solid campaign, and great graphics make it easy to recommend.

A strong storytelling core makes The Haunting of Joni Evers a compelling horror, even as the walking simulator gameplay becomes repeitive.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage is a well-designed expansion of the classic fighting game that focuses on gameplay over story.

Jurassic World Evolution 3 is a gorgeous park sim that doesn't reinvent the wheel but may still win over gamers who don't care for the genre.

The Outer Worlds 2 is goofy, gorgeous, and a delightful expansion of what made the first game so engrossing.

The tight controls and impressive visuals of Ninja Gaiden 4 can't keep the non-stop action from becoming too repetitive too quick.

Star Wars: Beyond Victory may only have a short story and quick gameplay, but the playbox mode showcases the potential of VR gaming.