The Last of Us Part II
£30 / PS4
Just as The Last of Us proved to be the perfect swansong for the PS3 era, The Last of Us Part II is a masterful triumph to see off the PS4 in style: a rare superior sequel that can be mentioned in the same breath as The Godfather Part II.
An unparalleled masterclass in everything it does, with an extensive suite of accessibility options that every game should adopt as the standard, it’s a game with a story that challenges us – and one we’ll be discussing long into the new console generation.
Stuff says ★★★★★
Naughty Dog has done it again with this brutal, bleak and beautiful game
Hades from £18 / PC, Switch
Just when you think you’ve seen all this hellish roguelite has to offer, a new tweak yanks you out of your comfort zone. It quickly becomes very addictive… and even if you’ll have to face numerous setbacks, few games make you feel so godly.
Stuff says ★★★★★
Great even if you don’t like roguelites …and if you do, it’s the best there is
Demon’s Souls £60 / PS5
This is a lovingly attentive remake that transforms an old game into a next-gen must-play. It’s going to make you work for it, as beneath that shiny new coat it remains a uniquely foreboding challenge, but overcoming Demon’s Souls is its own reward.
Stuff says ★★★★★
A gorgeous and faithful remake of a hugely influential cult classic
Doom Eternal ★★★★★ from £15 / all platforms
A ferocious shooter that marries incredible production values with cathartic ultraviolence.
Marvel’s Spider-man: Miles Morales ★★★★★ £45 / PS5, PS4
A visually stunning superhero romp, ideal for showing off the power of your new PS5.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 ★★★★★ from £33 / PS4, XB1, PC
A superb remake of two of the best sports games ever committed to disc.
Final Fantasy VII Remake ★★★★★ £32 / PS4
The greatest remake of one of the all-time greatest video games.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps ★★★★✩ from £25 / Switch, XSX, XB1, PC
A sequel to get well and truly lost in, plucking your heartstrings as it tests your gaming mettle.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla ★★★★✩ from £38 / all platforms
A brilliant instalment with meaty combat and a world ripe for pillaging.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons ★★★★✩ £37 / Switch
A life-sim with enough personality to keep you coming back for years.