Michael Damiani

“Everything about Astro Bot is brimming with delight, polish, and creativity, elevating it to stand among the best platformers ever made.”

“In multiple ways, Dawntrail is all about setting up events that will play out across future chapters. The narrative is certainly the most divisive element at the moment, so there’s a lot riding on where the writers go after the revelations and developments in the final act. The battle content is certainly heading in the right direction, but there’s still a question of whether or not the devs can sustain this momentum. There’s reason to be hopeful with what’s been established in Dawntrail, but what comes next will be crucial to Final Fantasy XIV’s outlook for the future.”

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth breaks limits as one of the most ambitious RPGs ever made.”

“Persona 3 Reload doesn’t quite address all the shortcomings of its previous renditions, nor does it include all the extras added over the years. However, it’s another incredible take that stands proudly alongside the other stellar versions of the game. With all of its new additions and features, especially the updated visuals, rewind function, and new battle mechanics, Reload is the best way to experience Persona 3.”

“Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a successful reinvention of the dormant franchise that carves out a marvelous new identity, one that clearly has a bright future.”

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder breathes new life into the franchise by combining some of the best elements from past installments and drawing inspiration from other contemporaries to deliver the best 2D Mario game in nearly 30 years.”

“Starfield is very ambitious, offering the freedom to play through rich and complex stories, but it under delivers on the promises of captivating space exploration.”

“Final Fantasy XVI boldly dares to defy series norms and forge a new path forward, resulting in the most satisfying single-player Final Fantasy in nearly two decades.”

“Fire Emblem Engage is a return to form when it comes to strategy and battles, but it's definitely a step backwards for the character development and social simulation elements.”

“Forspoken emerges as a solid new RPG, and though it has its fair share of issues, its world draws you in with intriguing combat and spellbinding abilities.”

“Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a splendid sequel that addresses several of its predecessor's shortcomings and expands its horizons with a revamped combat system and a terrific new take on exploration.”

“Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a fantastic follow-up that takes some of the best parts of its predecessors, and weaves them into something impressive.”

“Play as an adorable kitty and use their cat prowess to charm the people around them in order to make their way back home.”

“Omega Force serves up another fantastic musou crossover that looks and feels like the genuine article in Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes.”

“Kirby and the Forgotten Land supplies the jolliest of vibes in an adorable game that exudes charm and creativity.”

“Endwalker stands as one of the most ambitious MMO expansions ever made, and a magnificent conclusion to a journey that boasts some of the best storytelling in this medium.”

“Kena: Bridge of Spirits is a remarkable first effort from Ember Lab that showcases a beautiful world and a touching story.”

“Tales of Arise brings much needed changes for Bandai Namco's long-running RPG series with stunning new visuals, a refined combat system, and a somber narrative.”

“Scarlet Nexus sets itself apart with its inventive battle systems and captivating world, but does it stumble by asking you to complete two campaigns in order to fully appreciate its narrative?”

“Blending the old with the new, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury lets you relive the classic Wii U adventure with new enhancements and gives you a taste of open world platforming with its new campaign.”