PLAY

While it currently enjoys a wealth of mature, cinematic titles, PlayStation has been crying out for a fresh, colourful mascot platformer, and Astro Bot ticks most of those boxes – at the very least, Team Asobi proves there are multiple ways to accessorise the chilly veneer of white plastic. As a 30-something gamer with rent to pay, few things inspire childlike glee in me, but Astro Bot manages it again and again. Whether it’s diving into an underwater level and pretending I’m exploring an aquarium from the other side of the glass, or just the simple tactile joy of Astro Bot’s little feet tapa-tapa-ing across the DualSense, I’m feeling a wide-eyed wonder that I thought I’d grown out of. His Rescue Mission was a few games back, but it’s safe to say that Astro Bot has definitely resuscitated PlayStation’s long-absent sense of fun. [Issue#46, p.80]

A fan-favourite protagonist, clever gameplay options, and cases ranging from very silly to very serious – this collection has it all, and is unmissable for series fans. [Issue#46, p.94]

Capcom hasn’t messed with greatness, retaining everything that made Dead Rising a classic in the first place while sprinkling in smart changes. [Issue#46, p.96]

A ghost story we’ve heard many times before, told once more with feeling. A friendlier introduction for newbies, and a worthwhile return to fans’ special place. [Issue#46, p.91]

It may lack punch but its satisfying driving and laid-back exploration are ideal if you’re looking for a soothing adventure. Perfect for treasure hunt lovers. [Issue#46, p.93]

Not at all like getting blood from a stone. Presenting a monster mash you’ll want to jump back into, this roguelike is worth getting your chops around. [Issue#46, p.97]

A delight for Warhammer 40,000 fans, and strong enough to give everybody else a good time too. How long it’ll last depends on your tolerance for repetition. [Issue#46, p.86]

Adds more activity to a great game at a steep price, but doesn’t do much to justify another go-around. Ultimately left living in the base game’s shadow. [Issue#46, p.90]

One of the most generic open-world racers ever made. Add in server issues, uneven AI difficulty, level grinding, and visual woes and there’s very little to love.[Issue#46, p.84]

The best game in the series in over two decades. Its downsides are minor, making it a wholeheartedly recommendable, classic JRPG experience. [Issue#45, p.80]