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Team Asano has done it again: their blend of 2D HD graphics and retro gameplay creates an irresistible treasure trove that you won’t be able to put down until you’ve played through every last bit. Any minor quirks are easily overlooked.

Even if Junkster doesn't break new ground, the endearing 3D platformer successfully blends a modern building mechanic with retro-feeling platforming. It unfortunately doesn't quite feel like it reaches the full potential of any of its level ideas, but instead often chooses to play things a little more safely and predictably. Because of that it remains very accessible, but less appealing for a more mature audience. It's perfect for families and thanks to cleverly designed levels offers replay value for collection enthusiasts.

EA Sports UFC 6 delivers an authentic and highly entertaining MMA experience. Its deep combat system rewards skill and strategy, while new accessibility options help newcomers find their footing. Although the career mode remains somewhat repetitive and veterans may miss bigger innovations, UFC 6 successfully captures the intensity and spectacle of the sport.

Copa City stands out with its original concept and detailed micro-management, but a clunky interface and awkward controls often get in the way. Some mechanics also feel too shallow, especially when it comes to satisfying fan needs. Still, the combination of stadium operations, marketing, logistics and fan-zone planning can be rewarding. Fans of complex management games should give it a look, while those expecting a traditional football manager may be disappointed.

On the one hand, R-Type Tactics 1&2 Cosmos impresses with a wide variety of units and scenarios, an interesting story – which even branches out in the second installment – solid English voice acting, a visually appealing graphical overhaul, three playable factions, and the addition of the Cosmos campaign. On the other hand, the overall package feels somewhat dated in certain areas. The interface has seen only marginal modernization, there is still no tutorial meaningfully integrated into the gameplay, key quality-of-life features like an "undo move" function are missing, and the AI’s behavior isn't always logical – at times, it even attacks its own units. Furthermore, the multiplayer modes from the original games are absent. Nevertheless, those willing to overlook these flaws will experience many challenging battles set against a truly iconic backdrop.

Crushed in Time is a charming meta point-and-click adventure sending Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson on a hilarious journey through time and game development. With clever puzzles, a solid hint system and a fully voiced cast in delightful British English, it balances accessibility and challenge well. A save-game bug slightly dampens the experience, but the witty humour and elastic gameplay make it well worth the trip.

Voidling Bound manages to blend a retro feel with elements of modern game design. The gameplay systems have surprising depth, which isn't really taken advantage of in fairly simplistic combat encounters. It's a game that's highly entertaining for a few hours, but fizzles out after the novelty wears off.

Unrailed 2: Back on Track is even more fun than the already very entertaining first part. The gameplay is simple and very approachable but almost always ends up in complete and utter chaos (which we mean in the absolute best way possible). The many new, small and big, improvements to the gameplay itself as well as the overall progression through the game are very welcome and make Back on Track a super exciting game to play with friends either locally or online. If you are going to play this by yourself then you will have a better time than you had with “Unrailed” cause the singleplayer mode was also improved but this will never reach the always great chaos of playing with friends.

Terrinoth - Heroes of Descent is an all-round good tactical strategy game with diverse characters and gameplay depth. The 20 dungeons have replay value on various difficulties, which change the gameplay enough to provide new challenges. Unfortunately, the story is very light, so role-playing gamers won’t find much here. For everyone else, Terrinoth - Heroes of Descent provides short and sweet dungeon crawling missions, which can be enjoyed alone or with friends.

Gothic 1 Remake is one of the most confident games of the year. It does not compromise on the 2001 vision of giving the reigns to the player and has next to no guidance through a merciless and unforgiving world. This leads to a gameplay experience that is perfect for some, but off-putting for others, but the promise of making the original Gothic accessible through large and small changes, most notably the presentation of the game, is thoroughly fulfilled.