Digital Chumps

As a fan of JRPGs, OCTOPATH TRAVELER II shines as an excellent classic JRPG experience. But…it’s 2026. I struggle to think of those who haven’t yet played it on the original Switch. If you already own the earlier Switch version, you’re better off sticking to that instead of opting to start back over from scratch. I’m unsure if the Switch 2 version’s minute graphical improvements are worth the $60 price tag if you can get by with saving some change on the previous Switch gen’s version.

The Nintendo Switch 2 version of the first OCTOPATH TRAVELER is the game I’m legitimately struggling to recommend for today’s Switch 2 owner. It’s a notable JRPG in its own right for redefining storytelling amongst an 8-person cast along with a novel gameplay loop that has now spanned three entries. Most will probably be better off with the 2023 version of this game, unless you haven’t yet played an OCTOPATH title and are opting to get the bundled package.

End of Abyss is claustrophobic and eerie, science fiction survival horror through the eyes of Little Nightmares. Section 9 expresses its roots in new ways, incorporating intricate progression and anxious combat into the mix. By placing protagonist and player in a harsh world of dangerous paths and twisting secrets, each new door may open unto a potential flood of horrors and clutched chests.

Keeper is an alluring swan song for Double Fine’s Xbox tenure, resplendent in its ferocity, boldness, and beauty. Among these subdued, silent adventure games, there are few peers able to make this kind of thunderous impact in short order.

Welcome to Elderfield from developer Chris Cote and publisher Kwalee is a horror-filled cozy game that offers plenty of questing content, a well-designed farming and crafting system, and features just enough turn-based combat to deliver a cornucopia of fun. While it has a few minor, correctable issues, it’s an enjoyable overall gameplay experience.

Well Dweller does not wholly transform the Metroidvania genre. It undeniably features a deliciously rendered storybook world with a grim underbelly. However, some basic combat also makes it apparent that there are places where the game could have felt significantly more special. This genre is a hard nut to crack and with so many entrants year after year, it becomes increasingly challenging to differentiate from the pack. But in many ways, Kyle Thompson succeeded. And as this talented solo developer’s journey continues, I’m sure all the lessons learned will deliver something truly different and masterful.

SPRAWL zero encapsulates the early 2000s era of first-person shooters. Hearkening back to a time where developers wanted to immerse players in more than just gunplay, MAETH gives players a crunchy, accurate time capsule.

Dragon Quest Heroes: Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon Classic HD is every bit a remastered version of a Japan-exclusive Super Famicom game from 1993. While it may be a white whale that inspired a genre, it does feel somewhat ancient and in need of a few updates.

Garfield: Escape from Monday from developer OSome Studio is a good game that meets the standards of a 3D platforming experience. While it could have used a bit more enemy presence, the controls, levels, and overall game are still fun and make good use of the IP.

Dune: Awakening, from developer and publisher Funcom, brings the same massive world to the PlayStation 5 that it introduced on the PC. This version is more polished than the original release a year ago, which means less finickiness in the gameplay and a lot more fun.