Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a solid simulator with rough edges that disrupt the flow of learning and experiencing modern flying. Those new to the world of flight simulation will be overwhelmed and frustrated. But for those well-versed in the world of aviation, you will find appreciation for what is available here, even on the PS5 version of the game.

If you can get past Once Upon A Katamari's sticky controls and a general sense of deja vu, the many time periods, customizable cousins, unique challenges, and features make even a decades-old formula feel fresh again.

Bandai Namco and HYDE, Inc. have done right by the fanbase. Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots hits a solid drive with great customization options, ten diverse 18-hole courses, 25+ characters, a plethora of Wacky Golf modes, and even online play.

Battlefield 6 is off to a solid start, as the multiplayer is an impressive offering that can provide hours of enjoyment. This is an online game that can easily satisfy any Battlefield veteran, and could seriously compete for your time and retake its space in an already crowded genre. Just don't get it mainly for its campaign.

The Outer Worlds 2 isn’t Obsidian displaying any major advances in game design or unique innovations that would turn heads. This is a game of solid refinement from a studio that believes so deeply in the world they created in 2019. This resulted in a cohesive and entertaining RPG that could very well solidify as one of their best works today. 

For Donkey Kong fans, Donkey Kong Bananza is an absolute dream come true. But at the end of the day, this is a modern Nintendo game for better and for worse, and that means it’s accessible to a fault, has a sparse story, and a focus on short, simple micro-challenges for quick dopamine hit rewards.

Ghost of Yotei is less of an upgrade but a clear testament to Sucker Punch’s true specialty, and a reminder of how powerful an open-world samurai adventure can be. It’s gorgeous, tightly crafted, endlessly absorbing, and a must-play for anyone with a PS5.

Sonic Racing: Crossworlds delivered far beyond my expectations. It races ahead of the competition with dozens of game-changing Gadgets, many multiplayer modes, an expansive roster of characters and circuits, and the potential for endless mayhem thanks to all-platform crossplay. If you’ve ever enjoyed the Sonic Racing series, this is one title you’re not gonna want to sit out.

Herdling boasts an excellent soundtrack and a completely unique shepherding premise, but only delivers upon the more surface-level aspects of its promise.

The core concept of Lost Soul Aside is solid, and there’s fun to be had in its combat, but it’s not something I can comfortably recommend. It’s a stylish action game that is capable of delivering high-octane encounters that would bring a smile to your face. But everything else puts too much pressure on the little good it has going for it.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance sports a unique hand-drawn look, Joe will journey through stylistic stages while executing ninja arts and attacks with surprising precision, making for some very satisfying exploration and combat encounters.

This type of game design just doesn’t appeal to everyone, so while I can’t give this collection a perfect score, it is a must-buy for fans of old-school shooters.