Rival consoles – this week’s top games

Kerbal Space Program 2 PC, Xbox, PlayStation

£44.99; Age rating: 3

KSP2 is taking things to the next level with plans for interstellar travel, colonies, multiplayer and much more, and from what’s been seen in early access, launch. There’s vastly improved graphics, improved UI, immersive atmospheric audio that sets the scene, revamped animated tutorials, and a much more user-friendly build mode. And, launching rockets, watching them either implode or fail to reach orbit, then after a few attempts, orbiting like a pro. A full planet mission with a successful returnis the big challenge, and it feels like all systems go for KSP2. 8/10

Octopath Traveller II Switch, PC, Playstation 4/5 £39.99; Age rating: 12

This game incorporates some interesting graphics where 2D characters move through a beautifully rendered (if a bit murky) 3D landscape, which was cool in the first game and is still cool now – although the novelty has gone. There are eight different ways to play (you chose from eight characters at the start - merchant, cleric, thief?) which is also good fun and adds so mere-playability. The battle system is well-designed and tactical, and it’s great to see a new JRPG series being developed, but fans may have hoped for a little more distinction from the first title.7/10

Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart

Switch, PS4, PS5, Steam, Xbox One £34.99; Age rating: 3

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then this is the latest in a long line of games paying tribute to the legendary Mario K art series. It’ s fun. It’s playable. But it does nothing different from the likes of Joy Ride Turbo, Crash Team Racing, or any other karting-style games featuring fun weapon pick-ups, booster pads and kid-friendly characters. The variety of tracks is decent and unlockables – such as characters and skins – are a solid added element. It’s a fun game, but it lacks the crossover appeal for adults wanting to play alongside their little ones. 6/10