Through an outstanding visual language and accessible additions to beloved core mechanics, 1CC Games is propelling the SHMUP genre into a promising future for modern home gaming.

Treasures of The Aegean has a solid vision, but it needs more rounding out to successfully see that vision through. The game's hook almost works, but relies too much on mechanics that are too rough around the edges to be enjoyable.

Garden Story is a charming, chill, and cute journey primed to transport you into a fruitful world. This Link To The Past-like deserves plenty of love, and can be an ideal get-cozy-in-a-blanket-and-drink-hot-chocolate mode inducer.

Among its myths, mystery, and tragedy, Moonglow Bay is filled with an ocean's worth of charm. Stunning art, an encapsulating score, and an engaging gameplay loop makes it one of the most delightful experiences of the year.

The horror genre can be a hard sell for most. But with an outstanding visual language and the avoidance of cliche tropes, Subway Midnight delivers a masterful, accessible horror experience unlike any other.

Undying is a tragic story of a mother preparing her child for the inevitable end. With a compelling story and layered survival mechanics, we can’t wait to see the game evolve and change as it approaches the final product.

Echo Generation is a stunning Spielbergian acid trip. The nostalgia-fueled narrative hits are enjoyably bonkers, but the moment-to-moment progression can be a drag due to a lack of objective focus.

There’s something to be said for less expensive games that yield shorter, more honed experiences; a thriving trend within the indie horror scene, particularly in games inspired by retro ‘horror grunge’ titles. Chasing Static takes this direction, and utterly excels.

In recent years, the indie scene has played a quintessential role in carrying the torch that is the MetroidVania genre. To celebrate the 35th Anniversary of our beloved bounty hunter we take a look at the legacy of the genre, as well as some of our favorite indie titles within it.

Horror feels mechanically built into Mothmen 1966’s moment-to-moment gameplay, crafting an inherently fresh and much needed experience within a genre riddle with shallow jump scares. LCB Game Studio has something quite special on their hands.

Teacup provides the player with something quite simple; a single heartwarming day. Developer Smarto Club successfully delivers an uplifting narrative wrapped inside a delightful dose of nostalgic presentation that is easy to consume.

With a masterful score and stunning visuals, JETT: The Far Shore wonderfully sets the stage for an unknown universe primed to be uncovered. But unfortunately, a disjointed narrative and frustrating gameplay hinders the overall experience.

PAX West was its own adventure full of new games, exciting demos, and wonderful memories. Among the dozens of games previewed, Residual was a welcomed and unknown surprise flying under the radar that deserves more eyes on it.

Really Ragdoll’s debut is a frenetic fever dream filled with gore, murderous robots, and a throwback sense of humor. Despite numerous bugs in its early access stage, Kur is one hell of a ride.

Mashing up the simplicity of early 2000s action platformers with a new scope and surprising quality, Ember Lab’s debut title absolutely wows with its astonishing visuals and engaging combat.

Over the course of PAX West’s four days, Harry was able to play and see dozens of games. But once the show floor closed, there were six games in particular that kept him wanting more.

Cruis’n Blast is simultaneously a shallow yet overbearing iteration of the beloved franchise that struggles to keep up in the genre. It may be a fun thrill for 50 seconds at your local Dave and Busters, but with a seemingly careless port not tailored for consoles, this is one ride we cannot recommend.

With its lens on the power of connections and photography, TOEM: A Photo Adventure is a delightful snapshot filled with vibrant and imaginative characters, a wonderful score, and a stunning aesthetic.

From Sharkbomb Studios comes Nowhere Prophet, a tough deck building roguelite with a killer post-apocalyptic world and fantastic gameplay mechanics.

If you’re looking for a chaotic, comedic narrative with utterly delightful and lovable characters, then Kraken Academy is a game that comes with an easy recommendation.