As the busy holiday review season continues, a diverse range of new titles are vying for players' attention. For those seeking their next gaming experience this weekend, several notable releases and updates offer compelling gameplay and engaging narratives.
Echo Weaver presents a fresh take on the ability-gated exploration genre, drawing inspiration from classic Metroid and Castlevania titles. Instead of relying on new equipment for progression, Echo Weaver ties advancement to knowledge acquired throughout the game. Reviewer Kyle Hilliard described its unique approach to the Metroid structure as "admirable, unique, and well executed," highlighting a fantastic sense of discovery and an enticing possibility of replaying the game with full knowledge of abilities for a speedier experience.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer, developed by Fuse Games, offers a robust racing experience that stands on its own merits, even for those indifferent to the Star Wars IP. The game features familiar locations and musical motifs but shines brightest as a racing title, evoking the speed and tension of the Burnout series, with which many of the developers have history. Its roguelite campaign is fast-paced and engaging, featuring a stronger story than typically found in the genre. Beyond the campaign, players can engage in Arcade mode, Scenario mode mini-campaigns, and a variety of multiplayer races and tournaments.
For fans of Valve's unreleased MOBA-shooter Deadlock, the game continues to evolve with significant updates. The Cursed Apple map has received a substantial visual overhaul, making its streets and boulevards look phenomenal. Tweaks to the UI and indicators have also improved readability. Furthermore, new heroes are slated to join the roster, with player engagement in voting determining which character is added each week. Previous votes have seen characters like the Rat King and Baba win, with more additions on the way. Deadlock remains a compelling experience for those with access.
Thekla's Order of the Sinking Star offers a massive collection of hundreds of distinct puzzles woven into a larger narrative framework. This puzzle game is designed for experienced players, presenting complex logic challenges that encourage out-of-the-box thinking.
Additionally, Gears of War: E-Day is set to explore the events of Emergence Day, detailing the initial encounter between Marcus Fenix, Dominic Santiago, and the Locusts. Early reviews praise the game for its impressive shootouts, improved traversal and tactical abilities, well-designed battlefields, stunning visuals, and diverse arsenal.
For board game enthusiasts, The Old King’s Crown is highlighted as an intriguing and tactically rich title. Players assume the role of monarchy inheritors, utilizing bluffing, card management, and board control to navigate emergent narratives. However, acquiring a copy of this celebrated game by Eerie Idol can be challenging due to its popularity. It was also recognized among the best board games of 2025.