NieR Replicant is an action RPG with obvious flaws involving outdated quest design and repetitive combat, but those flaws are easily forgiven in light of its incredible characters, along with its unconventional and emotionally resonant story.
Curse of the Dead Gods is an excellent roguelite that bolsters its fantastic combat with an added level of strategy thanks to the unique curse/corruption mechanic that tempts you to make dangerous deals for powerful loot.
Olija leaves a strong impression with its unique look and fantastic combat, but its over all too quick and gives little reason to return.
A great modernized take on the NES Ninja Gaiden formula that starts simple and adds just the right amount of complexity to find its own unique identity in a crowded genre
In Demon's Souls, a touch of smart quality of life changes and gorgeous visuals go a long way in modernizing this tough PS3 classic.
Ghostrunner's lightning-quick pace, skill-heavy gameplay, excellent platforming, and open-ended combat structure makes for a first-person action experience that shouldn't be overlooked
WWE 2K Battlegrounds succeeds at being the most pick up and play friendly WWE video game in years, but it's a royal stumble in just about every other way.
A masterpiece that stays true to the original while also holding surprises around every corner.
EA Sports UFC 4 doesn't rock the boat all that much, but its reworked clinch system and new grapple assist feature are welcome changes, along with a tighter career mode that does a better job of teaching the basics of MMA.
Fantasy Strike is an approachable, innovative, and tightly designed 2D fighter that is much more than what its bland looks might indicate
A lack of navigational tools put a damper on Carrion's otherwise excellent power fantasy of being a horror movie monster
Ghost of Tsushima is an absolutely gorgeous open-world action/adventure with incredible combat and clever solutions to longstanding issues in the genre, despite dropping the ball on the stealth side of its stealth/action split.
The Wonderful 101: Remastered doesn't do much to earn its "Remastered" distinction, but nonetheless, this is still absolutely the best way to experience one of the best action games of a generation.
Despite a tiny roster, Them's Fightin' Herds is a 2D fighter that can hang with the big players in the genre