MLB The Show 20 is the definitive version of Sony San Diego's baseball simulation on the PS4, but long-time fans may feel that this franchise is just starting to show signs of fatigue. The gameplay refinements are welcome, and this is the biggest instalment thus far, but the shift to next-gen will be welcome as the developer seeks to revolutionise the best sports game on the market by far.
Persona 5 Royal improves upon what was already one of the greatest RPGs of this generation. The entirely new semester -- Royal's headline act -- is a fantastic addition, but really, it's the countless smaller improvements to gameplay and structure that sell this enhanced re-release, especially if you've already played through Persona 5. Our only criticism is aimed at the price tag -- full retail at launch -- but ultimately, it's difficult to deny the quality on offer here. The Phantom Thieves are back, and their tale of rebellion rings truer than ever.
Once the novelty of playing a game within the My Hero Academia world wears off, all that's left is another fairly average arena brawler. Different modes aren't enough to make the title stand out, and ultimately, My Hero One's Justice 2 offers an experience which, although enjoyable, is forgettable and somewhat bland. It's safe to say that we expected more from this sequel.
Bloodroots takes the frenetic ferocity of Hotline Miami and transforms it into an action puzzler that's distinct enough to stand on its own. The title incorporates its enormous roster of weaponry effortlessly and is able to easily communicate each armament's strengths throughout spontaneous skirmishes. It's masterfully designed and bizarrely well written, meaning not even difficulty spikes and occasionally unfair camerawork can detract from its achievements.
Two Point Hospital is the antidote to our two-decade Theme Hospital obsession. With its strong sense of humour and accessible yet deep gameplay loop, this spiritual successor replicates all the elements that made the 1997 original so memorable. Importantly, it's been smartly converted to the PS4, with a slick control scheme and a varied campaign.
What may have been a solid experience a few years back feels too stale in 2020. Darksiders Genesis is completely competent in its own right, but it doesn't do enough to differentiate itself from previous iterations despite a change in perspective. Combat is a highlight and the Creature Core system provides some depth, however, they're about the only two features we can muster any enthusiasm for.