Tag: Rating 4/5

EMPULSE is a reminder that arena shooters do not need endless systems, battle passes or cluttered progression to feel alive. It is fast, vertical and unapologetically mechanical, built around movement so fluid it often feels like the only real rule is momentum.

Bacterium takes the simple concept of watching tiny organisms evolve and transforms it into a surprisingly absorbing sandbox of science and strategy. Beneath its minimalist presentation lies a rewarding simulation that encourages patience, experimentation and the joy of discovering unexpected outcomes.

High On Life 2 proves lightning can strike twice. By tightening its humour, reinventing movement with an outstanding skateboard mechanic, and delivering a far more confident campaign, Squanch Games has transformed a divisive cult hit into one of its strongest action games yet.

Alice and the Looking-Glass is less concerned with challenging your reflexes than warming your heart. Through beautiful animation, gentle storytelling and a message of kindness, it creates the sort of bedtime adventure that children will happily revisit long after the final page is turned.

Archery RED proves that virtual reality does not need sprawling adventures to leave an impression. With satisfying bow mechanics, sharp futuristic visuals and rewarding skill based gameplay, it delivers an experience that feels genuinely engaging every time you draw another arrow.

Murky Divers transforms cooperative horror into an unforgettable exercise in organised panic. Equal parts hilarious and terrifying, it takes familiar extraction gameplay and plunges it into the crushing darkness of the ocean, where every dive feels like a disaster waiting to happen.

Clarity: The Seven Demons of Vanguardia proves that familiar ideas can still feel fresh when they're driven by heart. Its satisfying boss progression, thoughtful themes and beautifully hand drawn world create an adventure that quietly lingers long after the final demon has fallen.

Wantama☆Life is a charming, energetic visual novel that knows exactly who it's for. While its humour and references won't land with everyone, its excellent voice performances, expressive artwork, and wonderfully chaotic school trip make for a thoroughly entertaining adventure that's difficult not to smile through.

Doki Monsters: Quest wears its inspirations proudly, but it also knows when to carve out its own identity. Beneath its nostalgic pixel art lies a surprisingly flexible monster collecting RPG that respects classic traditions while quietly modernising many of the genre's oldest frustrations.

Acorn Avengers is the kind of game that reminds you why local co-op never goes out of style. Packed with playful physics, colourful worlds and plenty of cartoon charm, it's an adventure that's easy to pick up, difficult to put down, and even better when shared with a friend.