This would have been a thumbs down upon release. Hello Games have since weathered the storm and managed to turn this into a good game. It worries me what other studios will learn from this however.

A timeless masterpiece gets a modern, tasteful cosmetic uplift. Shadow of the Colossus is understated, beautiful, charming and inspired. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget - must play.

Nioh transcends its soulslike roots by adding successful new ideas like stances in combat and Guardian Spirits. Enemies and environments become repetitive after a while, but worth the price of entry.

Technical niggles are easy to overlook when a game is this lovingly crafted, heart-warming and - at the time - unique. An absorbing and emotional triumph from Ueda and team. Masterpiece.

Thrilling combat punctuates a fun, well-told, gripping adventure. Naughty Dog throw down the gauntlet on set pieces, and deliver a wild ride through glorious vistas alongside great characters and writing.