Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope has just received its first batch of DLC today. Titled "Tower of Doom," this first bit of content is exclusive to the season pass and will allow players to fight through a procedurally generated tower to save their old friend Spawny. Alongside this DLC comes a new demo for the game, too.

Tower of Doom goes full roguelike in that players will begin their journeys with four heroes and sparks chosen at random. As you make your way up the titular tower, you'll upgrade your characters and pick different routes to make it all the way up top to face off with Madame Bwahstrella. Upon successful completion of the Tower of Doom, players will unlock new expeditions in the tower that will increase the difficulty and unlock new cosmetics.

As for the demo of Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, players will be able to experience the entire prologue for the game and a portion of the first planet. Running around two hours of gameplay, you'll be able to explore Beacon Beach and do battle with Darkmess-corrupted foes. There is no mention of save data transfer to the full game, but this demo should give you an idea of whether or not Sparks of Hope is for you.

Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is currently available on Nintendo Switch in both Standard and Gold Editions. Tower of Doom is the first of three planned expansions for the game, with the other two coming later this year. The third pack will feature a guest appearance from Rayman.

Featured image via Nintendo.

2022 was a fantastic year for games. God of War: Ragnarok, Horizon Forbidden West, Dying Light 2, and Pokemon, among many others captured our collective attention. That's not to mention the amazing indie that release this year, as well, such as Signalis, Prodeus, and Citizen Sleeper just to name a few. Across PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation and Xbox platforms, we've collected our highest-reviewed games of 2021 into a "best of" list. 

Since we're a small staff at GameSkinny, going the traditional "staff voting route" doesn't really make a whole lot of sense, as has been the case the past few years. Though it means there are more games here than on other lists, the best way we've found to highlight the best games of the year in 2022 is to include any game with a score of "8" or higher. So that's what we've done. 

The Best Games of 2022

Among Us VR

Image via Innersloth

Publisher: InnerSloth
Developer: InnerSloth
Platforms: Oculus Rift (reviewed), Meta Quest 2
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Simple is an overall theme for Among Us VR. At launch, the game lacks most of the advanced modes and options of the core game and only comes with one map. That said, when the original launched, it was just as limited in scope, and we expect regular updates in VR to make this version just as robust. Even with just the single map, this is a superb Among Us experience. Read the full review here. 

As Dusk Falls

Image via Xbox Game Studio

Publisher: Xbox Game Studio
Developer: INTERIOR/NIGHT
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10

What we said: There are so many layers that I'll be unpacking for the next several weeks as I wrap on my second playthrough. I likely won't be the only one exploring everything that As Dusk Falls has to offer. It's a stellar entry in the interactive narrative genre that will only be exceeded by what its dev team has planned next. Read the full review here. 

A Plague Tale Requiem

Image via Focus Entertainment

Publisher: Focus Entertainment
Developer: Asobo Studio
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PC, Xbox Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: A Plague Tale: Requiem is an enthralling sequel that makes real refinements to the original. Its narrative manages to feel both utterly crushing and incredibly hopeful at the same time. And the degree of freedom in its gameplay options means there's never a dull moment. Read the full review here. 

Atelier Sophie 2

Image via Koei Tecmo

Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Developer: Gust
Platforms: PS4 (reviewed), PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Atelier Sophie 2: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Dream is a vast improvement over its predecessor. Borrowing exploration elements from the Atelier entries while keeping its traditional turn-based combat system is a great way to help it stand out within its own franchise. On top of that, the battles have more depth than ever before. Sophie Neuenmuller’s new adventure is well worth it for veterans and newcomers alike. Read the full review here. 

Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium

Image via Capcom

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Capcom
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed), PS4, PC, Xbox One
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium continues in the fine tradition of the original Stadium with a great collection of classic coin-op games. While these retro compilations are largely for the overly nostalgic older gamer, there’s a lot of great action to be had here, especially with friends playing in the same room. Read the full review here. 

Capcom Fighting Collection

Image via Capcom

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Capcom
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4, PC, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: For fighting game lovers, the Capcom Fighting Collection is a treasure trove of '90s goodness. Aside from finally being able to play the Darkstalkers series again, the inclusion of Red Earth, Cyberbots, and others makes this a thoroughly entertaining package. Read the full review here. 

Citizen Sleeper

Image via Fellow Traveller

Publisher: Fellow Traveller
Developer: Jump Over the Age
Platforms: Xbox One (reviewed), Series X, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: With mechanics inspired by contemporary tabletop RPGs, Citizen Sleeper feels fresh, tense, and engaging throughout its 6- to 8-hour run time. Balancing your actions, resources, and story progress is a tight-rope act that's engrossing the further you get into this stellar sci-fi world. Read the full review here. 

Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Whether you’re a returning player or you’ve had your eye on Crisis Core in the past, Square Enix has delivered again in its ongoing saga of overhauling FFVII for a modern audience. For better or worse, there are no surprises of the ilk seen in Remake, though I would have happily seen some liberties taken with the events here, even if just to tidy up the game’s finale a little. Read the full review here. 

Dying Light 2: Stay Human

Image via Techland

Publisher: Techland
Developer: Techland
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Dying Light 2 does so much so well. You never know what you are going to get when you venture out into Villedor. Every handcrafted quest and environment tells a story, something that many other games aspire to, but few achieve. The movement is thrilling, the musical score is tremendous, and there is a bounty of good, but optional content. Read the full review here. 

Elden Ring

Image via Bandai Namco

Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developer: FromSoftware
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 10/10

What we said: What FromSoftware has accomplished with Elden Ring is staggering. The culmination of more than a decade of trial, error, and success, Elden Ring raises not only the bar for the genre but for FromSoftware itself. It will send a ripple throughout the industry at large, acting as the new standard-bearer for open-world games. If there's more Elden Ring to come, count me in. Read the full review here. 

Evil West

Image via Focus Entertainment

Publisher: Focus Entertainment
Developer: Flying Wild Hog
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Much like Flying Wild Hog’s flagship series Shadow Warrior, their latest release in Evil West is again an entirely over-the-top and bombastic affair designed to elicit a chuckle as much as it’s meant to appease your lizard brain with its almost non-stop action. But Evil West has done something fairly remarkable by dragging the sort of shlocky, B-tier, 360-era action games into 2022 with basically all of the quality-of-life upgrades you’d expect from a modern title. Read the full review here. 

F1 2022

Image via Electronic Arts

Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Codemasters
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC
Rating: 8/10

What we said: F1 2022 is a fantastic racing game and the best Formula 1 game to date. There are some very nice improvements to the gameplay, a smattering of new tracks, and a realistic representation of the changes the sport has seen in the latest season. If you really want to get your hands on the new era of cars and feel how they drive, F1 2022 is a must-buy. Read the full review here. 

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes

Image via Nintendo

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 9/10

What we said: I secretly wanted a "golden route" scenario with Fire Emblem: Three Hopes, a resolution to Three Houses' dangling plot threads where maybe everyone could be happy at the end. What Three Hopes actually delivers is so much better; it's a finely crafted expansion that's fresh and familiar at the same time, all with smartly designed tactical combat that stays entertaining in spite of class similarity. Read the full review here. 

Ghostwire: Tokyo

Image via Bethesda

Publisher: Bethesda
Developer: Tango Gameworks
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PC
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Ghostwire Tokyo is essentially what I thought it would be, for better and for worse. It's charming but empty, ambitious but too formulaic, and it's got the most personality of any game I've played this year. I sincerely hope Tango has more Ghostwire in store, either as DLC or a sequel. Despite its issues, there's nothing else quite like it. Read the full review here. 

God of War: Ragnarok

Image via Sony

Publisher: Sony
Developer: Sony Santa Monica
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4
Rating: 8/10

What we said: God of War: Ragnarok is the very definition of a great game. Its scope is grand, with a polished presentation that looks and sounds spectacular. While the overarching plot is mediocre, the characters, anchored by some of the best acting performances of the generation, stand out for their depth, development, and empathy. The action is exquisite, further honing a winning combat formula while adding some refreshing variety. Read the full review here. 

Gotham Knights

Image via Warner Bros. 

Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Developer: WB Games Montreal
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PC, Xbox Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Gotham Knights is a surprising game. On the surface, it looks like a lesser knockoff of the Batman games that came before, but underneath that rough exterior is a well-crafted action RPG with outstanding co-op, engaging characters, and a story worth taking time to enjoy. Read the full review here. 

Gran Turismo 7

Image via Sony

Publisher: Sony
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Platforms: PS4 (reviewed), PS5
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Gran Turismo 7 strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and realism in a way that caters to casual players and veterans. It's a gorgeous racing game with a surprisingly addictive gameplay loop thanks to the new Café and Menu Books systems. While some modes are certainly not as strong as others, Gran Turismo 7 checks almost all the boxes of what a driving simulator should be. Read the full review here. 

Hardspace: Shipbreaker

Image via Focus Entertainment

Publisher: Focus Entertainment
Developer: Blackbird Interactive
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS5, Xbox Series X
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Hardspace: Shipbreaker is an enjoyable physics-based puzzle game with something for everyone. The surgical feel of dismantling ships, the lore, and the mix of beautiful graphics and folksy soundtrack lends itself to an enjoyable time. The campaign story is enjoyable and the cast of characters are relatable if a bit stereotypical. With its 1.0 launch, now is the perfect time to suit up. Read the full review here. 

Hard West 2

Image via Good Shepherd Entertainment

Publisher: Ice Code Games
Developer: Good Shepherd Entertainment
Platforms: PC (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: 2022 is unexpectedly shaping up to be the year of the tactics game. Despite enjoying the preview, I didn't expect Hard West 2 to grab me quite as much as Triangle Strategy or the likes of Tactics Ogre, which is itself getting a remake later this year. However, if you're a fan of strategy at all, it absolutely deserves your attention. Read the full review here. 

Horizon Forbidden West

Image via Sony

Publisher: Sony
Developer: Guerilla Games
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4
Rating: 8/10

What we said: I hoped Horizon Forbidden West would shatter expectations and take the series to the boldest new heights. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the sequel, but it’s also impossible to ignore there’s so much material to warrant doing far more than just making prettier, bigger worlds with more breathtaking set pieces. Forbidden West is a very good game. It could just be even better. Read the full review here. 

Infernax

Image via The Arcade Crew

Publisher: The Arcade Crew
Developer: Berzerk Studio
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), Xbox One, Series X, PC, PS4, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Infernax is largely exactly what you'd think at first glance. It's very retro and challenging with simplistic 8-bit graphics and gameplay. Where it excels is taking those old-school constraints and expanding on them to create a gory adventure that feels at once totally familiar but with enough depth to still be interesting and worthwhile all on its own. Read the full review here. 

Kaiju Wars

Image via Foolish Mortals

Publisher: Foolish Mortals
Developer: Foolish Mortals, Michael Long
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: While Kaiju Wars carries a feeling of familiarity, there’s enough here for it to stand apart from others in the genre. With good pacing, tactical play, and pop-culture moments, there’s plenty of fun to be had with the main campaign ... Add to that the near limitless amount of player-generated content, and Kaiju Wars is a game that emulates its namesake — it's something you can keep coming back to again and again. Read the full review here. 

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Image via Nintendo

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: HAL Laboratory
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Overall, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is exactly the sequel we'd expect. Despite the move to 3D, the gameplay is instantly familiar. While nothing here is anything close to groundbreaking or even innovative, it is a comfortable, casual, all-ages adventure worth taking. Read the full review here. 

LEGO Bricktales

Image via Thunderful

Publisher: Thunderful
Developer: Clockstone Software
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: LEGO Bricktales is a delightful surprise, even with its fiddly controls. Pairing puzzles with LEGOs seems like such a natural thing to do; I'm surprised it took this long to see it happen. And I sincerely hope it's not the last such puzzle game from Thunderful. Read the full review here. 

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Image via Ubisoft

Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: This creative approach to the tactics genre finally gives the series an identity of its own. It won't be winning any awards for its writing, but Sparks of Hope still manages to be a blast at nearly every turn. Merging tactics, RPG elements, and platforming, the Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is one of the best Mario spin-offs on the Switch. Read the full review here. 

Marvel's Midnight Suns

Image via 2K

Publisher: 2K
Developer: Firaxis
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4, Xbox One, Series X, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: It's safe to say Marvel fans who are the slightest bit interested in Midnight Suns should check it out. The writing doesn't work for me more often than not, but if you're just looking to spend some time hanging out with Captain Marvel or Blade while you start a book club or go fishing, then you'll be delighted to find out just how much of that sort of thing is packed into the game. Read the full review here. 

Metal: Hellsinger

Image via Funcom

Publisher: Funcom
Developer: The Outsiders
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 9/10

What we said: All in all, Metal: Hellsinger is a short, sweet, and immensely enjoyable experience worth every second of your time. It more than earns its purchase price. I cannot wait to see what the team at The Outsiders makes next because if this outing is anything to go by, they have one Hell of a future ahead of them. Read the full review here. 

MLB The Show 22

Image via Sony

Publisher: Sony
Developer: Sony San Diego
Platforms: PS4 (reviewed), PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Ultimately, MLB The Show 22 is a powerhouse like most entries in the series, but it falls victim to the sports-game pitfall of yearly editions: it just doesn't add enough new features. Most long-time fans may not mind that, though if you're looking for an upgrade, this is just another season, albeit a good one. Read the full review here. 

Nobody Saves the World

Image via Drinkbox Studios

Publisher: Drinkbox Studios
Developer: Drinkbox Studios
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Nobody Saves the World is an excellent action RPG with unique progression and class systems. If you come to RPGs for their gameplay rather than their characters or stories, you’re going to be well-served here. Read the full review here. 

Pokemon Legends Arceus

Image via Nintendo

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Gamefreak
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: I might have wanted more from Pokemon Legends Arceus, and it definitely deserves more, but I’m so happy with what I got. At last, Game Freak took the imaginative, fascinating world it built all those years ago and decided to build on what makes it special — the sense of wonder and, more importantly, the Pokemon themselves. Read the full review here. 

Prodeus

Image via Humble Games

Publisher: Humble Games
Developer: Bounding Box Software
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: [Prodeus is] still one of the better action games I've played this year, and I can see myself loading it up again whenever I'm in the mood for some stylized ultraviolence. Whatever issues I have with Prodeus become as irrelevant as its storyline whenever I liberate a demon's entire upper half with one four-barreled shotgun blast. Read the full review here. 

Rogue Legacy 2

Image via Cellar Door Games

Publisher: Cellar Door Games
Developer: Cellar Door Games
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Ultimately, anyone who played and enjoyed the original Rogue Legacy is going to love this sequel just as much if not more. Everything that made the first game so great is here, though it is all bigger and better than ever before. With a host of new classes, traits, and abilities along with some welcome changes to gameplay mechanics, Rogue Legacy 2 is everything you'd want in a sequel and one of the best roguelikes available. Read the full review here. 

Salt and Sacrifice

Image via Ska Studios

Publisher: Ska Studios
Developer: Ska Studios
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Salt and Sacrifice is a labor of love for its genre, one that will scratch any veteran’s itch for more mysterious worlds to explore. It never reaches the heights of the best Souls-likes but never sinks to the lows of those that attempt and fail to work within the framework. Read the full review here. 

Saturnalia

Image via Santa Ragione

Publisher: Santa Ragione
Developer: Santa Ragione
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Saturnalia uses horror in smart ways to explore social topics – the town’s isolation, resistance to change and to outsiders, and the ugly social beliefs that those things inform. Those facets combine perfectly to make a game that isn’t just horrifying because of the monsters that stalk us in the night. It’s horrifying because of the monsters we make, too – and the things we’re capable of becoming. Read the full review here. 

Serious Sam Siberian Mayhem

Image via Devolver Digital

Publisher: Devolver Digital
Developer: Croteam
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS5, Xbox Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Croteam has teamed up with truly passionate Serious Sam fans to make their vision for the game a reality, and it shows. Siberian Mayhem’s new weapons, enemies, and gameplay variations keep the experience fresh while sticking to the roots of what makes Serious Sam so great: ruthless alien-killing action with plenty of puns along the way. Read the full review here. 

Signalis

Image via Humble Games

Publisher: Humble Games
Developer: rose-engine
Platforms: Xbox Series X (reviewed), Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC
Rating: 8/10

What we said: While it’d be remiss of me to discuss some of the specifics that truly elevate Signalis, particularly in terms of the story and its experimental delivery, you can believe that developers rose-engine have made good on their promise. They’ve delivered a top-tier game that marries cosmic horror with altogether more grounded points of conflict. Signalis is a vital experience for anyone who fondly remembers being terrified of vague pixel arrangements of early survival horror games. Read the full review here. 

Sonic Frontiers

Image via SEGA

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: SEGA
Platforms: PS4 (reviewed), PS5, Xbox One, Series X, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Always fast and sometimes furious, Sonic Frontiers gives me a sense of wonder I haven't had with the 3D portion of the franchise in a decade, and it does so with the sort of flair I want from Sonic Team. It's not perfect, but it is a huge spin dash in the right direction for the Blue Blur. The next game needs to build on what Sonic Team has put together here because this is a formula with long legs. Read the full review here. 

SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters' Clash

Image via SNK

Publisher: SNK
Developer: SNK
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 9/10

What we said: SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters' Clash was a game I loved dearly at one time and have had a wonderful time coming back to in 2022. Fans of both SNK and Capcom can find plenty of enjoyment here, whether in the gameplay itself or just in the card art — just don't expect the bells and whistles one might expect from a modern CCG video game. Read the full review here. 

Splatoon 3

Image via Nintendo

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Splatoon 3 is the most polished version of the concept yet. While it doesn't break any new ground, Splatoon 3 is still a unique joy within the shooter genre. There are the typical Nintendo design quirks built into the online experience, but they don't spoil the thrilling combat loop at the game's heart. More approachable than ever, Splatoon 3 is exhilarating family-friendly mayhem for competitive and co-op gamers alike. Read the full review here. 

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II

Image via Aspyr

Publisher: Aspyr
Developer: Aspyr
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II is still an amazing game and compelling sequel to one of the best love letters to the fandom. Pushing 20 years old, it is still a contender when it comes to story, mechanics, and audio, though the visuals are slightly dated. The Nintendo Switch port has some issues to be smoothed out yet, but they aren’t game-breaking and aren’t nearly as bad as some of the issues the original game shipped with. Read the full review here. 

Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Team Ninja
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4, PC, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin is an endearing action RPG that takes careful steps with its reappropriation of traditional Final Fantasy systems. The translation to Team Ninja’s brand of fast-paced combat feels amazing when it’s firing on all cylinders. Unfortunately, it’s let down by technical issues and a loot system that actively pushes you away from messing around with its jobs in the way that it so desperately wants. Read the full review here. 

Stray

Image via Annapurna Interactive

Publisher: Annapurna Interactive
Developer: BlueTwelve Studio
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Stray takes about five to six hours to finish, but it makes use of that short run time to tell a touching story between a cat and a robot drone. Its controls feel great and impactful, whether you're jumping or running. There’s so much personality to the cat, too: being able to meow on command and do cat things like knocking over items and scratching on walls is a nice touch. Stray is a tightly focused journey that is worth experiencing at least once. Read the full review here. 

Tactics Ogre: Reborn

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Tactics Ogre: Reborn is a thoughtful re-release of a classic that adds meaningful changes to make the experience more approachable in relation to previous installments. Those changes, by and large, are a good thing, but the complexity of Tactics Ogre isn't lost in the process. Diehard fans will likely be happy to hear that, but it would have been nice to see Tactics Ogre: Reborn strive to be even more accessible for newcomers. Read the full review here. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge

Imgae via DotEmu

Publisher: DotEmu
Developer: Tribute Games
Platforms: PS5 (reviewed), PS4, PC, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge works so perfectly because it’s clear the developers not only love the source material, but understand intrinsically how to recreate that beloved sense of nostalgia in a way that feels both authentic and evolved. This really does come across as a game that could have actually existed in a 1990-era arcade... If you have a soft spot for classic arcade brawlers of the 80s and 90s, Shredder’s Revenge is a damn near perfect homage and sequel to one of the best of the era. It doesn't get much better than this. Read the full review here. 

TemTem

Image via Humble Games

Publisher: Humble Games
Developer: Crema
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed), PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Temtem may play a lot like Pokemon on the surface, but a suite of tweaks to the battle system, exciting visual design, and heavy emphasis on PvP more than make up for the similarities with it and other monster catchers. While a deeper story would certainly be welcome, Temtem is a unique and rewarding experience for those with the patience to master its intricacies. Read the full review here. 

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: I feel like The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story may have been better paced as an actual movie than a game given that the interactive elements bogged down the experience a bit. Even so, everything else about the title shines. The century spanning story is exceptionally engaging and I found myself wanting to continue on to the next chapter to see what happened next. It also helps immensely that the actors bring stellar performances to each case. Read the full review here. 

The DioField Chronicle

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed), PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: The DioField Chronicle has some fantastic ideas, even if some of them feel a bit underbaked. This could be the foundation of something ambitious for Square Enix, and if another game could build upon the combat system and narrative style found here, it could really turn into something special ... The DioField Chronicle is easily one of the most unique games of the year and a breath of fresh air in the JRPG genre, even for its problems. Read the full review here. 

The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero

Image via NISA

Publisher: NISA
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Trails from Zero might be missing a few features it could, and maybe even should, have had, but if you've never played it before, don't let that hold you back from giving it a try. This decade-old RPG lost none of its potency as time wore on and remains an essential experience. In short, Zero is a remarkable feat of RPG storytelling and worldbuilding; even 12 years after its original release, little else like it exists. Read the full review here. 

The Quarry

Image via 2K

Publisher: 2K
Developer: Supermassive Games
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: The Quarry isn't exactly the scariest game out there, but horror game aficionados will find plenty to enjoy here thanks to its high-stakes gameplay and fantastic performances from its all-star cast. If that doesn't sound like your type of game, it becomes difficult to justify paying full price for a 10-hour experience. The game certainly doesn't attempt to reinvent the wheel, but still manages to provide players with a unique and rich interactive experience on par with that of Until Dawn. Read the full review here. 

Thymesia

Image via Team17

Publisher: Team17
Developer: OverBorder Studio
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS5, Xbox Series X, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Thymesia is one of the best Souls-likes not to come from FromSoftware, full stop. It also stands firmly on its inspirations while finding its own character from within them. It's not perfect, with some of the most valuable aspects (story and level design) being some of its weakest points, but between its stellar boss battles and well-realized combat, there's a lot to love here. Read the full review here. 

Tiny Tina's Wonderlands

Image via 2K

Publisher: 2K
Developer: Gearbox
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X
Rating: 9/10

What we said: The game's similarities to Borderlands 3 make it an easy sell for longtime fans of the series who already know what to expect from these looter shooters. Still, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands puts its own D&D twist on things, which makes it a unique experience that can draw in new players thanks to its quirks and wacky gameplay. With an excellent loot system and stellar gunplay, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is easily one of the most addictive and satisfying FPS games in recent memory. Read the full review here. 

Triangle Strategy

Image via Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed), PC
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Triangle Strategy has in abundance the three things any tactics game needs to succeed: story, systems, and style. Whatever its shortcomings in character development and pacing in the first half, they're easy to overlook. This is easily one of the smartest and most interesting tactics games to release in years, and one I'll be playing for a long time to come. Read the full review here. 

Tunic

Image via Finji

Publisher: Finji
Developer: Tunic Team
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: TUNIC brings together a gorgeous art style, phenomenal gameplay, and old-school game design baked directly into the way you discover the world, delivering one of the most enjoyable games I’ve played in years. Read the full review here. 

Two Point Campus

Image via SEGA

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: Two Point Studios
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 9/10

What we said: Somehow, Two Point Campus manages to find a great middle ground between easy-to-pick-up gameplay and deep management mechanics. There’s an undeniable, joyful glee in spending hours meticulously placing items, seeing it turn into a massive well-oiled university. As stressful as you might think it’d be to run a school, Two Point Campus is nothing but fun. Read the full review here. 

Vampire the Masquerade: Swansong

Image via Nacon

Publisher: Nacon
Developer: Big Bad Wolf
Platforms: PC (reviewed), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Switch
Rating: 8/10

What we said: While Swansong shares one of Earthblood's big flaws — both games throw you straight into the deep end of an established and complex setting, which makes them thoroughly inaccessible to newcomers — it's a much more solid project. Its horror is subtle, its puzzles are mostly difficult but fair, and it's got a surprising amount of replayability. Read the full review here. 

Warhammer 40K: Darktide

Publisher: Fatshark
Developer: Fatshark
Platforms: PC (reviewed), Xbox Series X
Rating: 8/10

What we said: Darktide is a fantastic live service co-op FPS that is almost worth every penny. Almost. I love it to death, and it's ramping up to be one of my most played games of 2022, but it's not perfect. It will surely become one of the titans of the genre just like Vermintide and its sequel, but it's got a long way to go. Read the full review here. 

Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Image via Nintendo

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Monolith Soft
Platforms: Nintendo Switch (reviewed)
Rating: 8/10

What we said: A recommendation for Xenoblade Chronicles 3 comes pretty easily if you're a fan of previous Xenoblade games or just a fan of JRPGs in general. For others, it's tougher due to its complex mechanics and slow early pacing. Regardless, though there are rough edges, XC3 makes up for it thanks to areas of absolute brilliance, and it's a game well worth experiencing. Read the full review here. 

That's it for our list of the best, highest-scored games of 2022. What were your favorite games? Let us know in the comments below! 

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle was one of the first surprise Nintendo Switch hits back in 2017. The tactics RPG was a wonderfully wacky marriage between Rayman's Raving Rabbids and the Super Mario universe that was, on top of the already unbelievable mashup, a departure for a company as precious about their characters as Nintendo.

Was it weirder that Kingdom Battle gave Mario and all his friends guns or that the Rabbid counterparts were actually cosplaying the heroes from the Mushroom Kingdom? Both sound absurd on paper, but the weirdest part was that when it all came together, the game was what it set out to be. 

Five years later and Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope might be the strangest Mario spinoff yet. It is certainly the trickiest to understand at a glance. Like its predecessor, Sparks of Hope is primarily a tactics game with hints of platforming and environmental puzzles.

These supporting flavors are stronger than hints this time around and even the tactics portions have ditched the grid-based battle system of the first. In terms of both its genre and how it lets you play with its systems, the new Mario + Rabbids is inventive and playful, making it a bold step up from Ubisoft's first attempt. 

The original Mario + Rabbids was easily reducible to "Mario meets XCOM." Perhaps this was on oversimplification in the first place, but Sparks of Hope does work to dispel any reductive sentiment. The game is still a turn-based, cover-based shooter, but every element of the experience feels retooled for the better this time around. 

From the get-go, everything about Sparks of Hope feels looser. The tactical battles no longer operate on a grid system. Instead, characters are free to run around and interact with anything and anyone within their range of motion. This immediately adds a flexibility to every turn that the first game couldn't accomplish by aping the grid system so tried and true to the genre. 

The change pays off, especially as you level up and are allowed to do much more on a given turn. Eventually, Luigi and Mario can move from one side of a map to the other in just one turn using a conjunction of the non-combat abilities Sparks of Hope gives all characters. 

The overworlds, too, feel more like playgrounds now. Each is filled with side quests that consist of more battles, but a healthy dose of environmental puzzles and Coin challenges add variety to the mix. And, with some late game exceptions, these puzzly sequences manage to stick around just long enough, not overstaying their welcome.

As should be apparent by now, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope isn't afraid to make big changes to the established Mario + Rabbids formula. After retiring for some R&R, Mario and the original game's cast of heroes (minus Yoshi) are sucked back into a galactic conflict against the evil Cursa, who is allowing Darkmess energy to destroy the universe. It's after getting this verbose excuse to galaxy hop that you are introduced to the biggest new addition and the game's namesake — the Sparks. 

A specific callback that connects Sparks of Hope to Super Mario Galaxy, the Sparks are fusions of the Lumas from the 2007 game and Rabbids. Each Spark has a unique passive and active ability. Many apply elemental effects to weapons and increase elemental resistances, but some let you buff your teammates, and eventually, you unlock Sparks that allow you to Summon allies.

Each of the nine heroes you eventually unlock has two Spark slots. Sparks level independently from the heroes and can be equipped and moved from character to character at any time — a lot like Materia, for you Final Fantasy VII fans. Star Bits, another connection to Mario Galaxy, are in used to level your Sparks. 

In short, the Spark system is a wonderful and much-needed addition that keeps the Mario + Rabbids sequel fresh for nearly its entire 30+ hour runtime. Each world you travel to has a bounty of side quests — this is a Ubisoft game, after all — that will earn you currency to spend on items that will quickly upgrade your Sparks. This loop repeats for each of the five overworlds you explore, and while the structure is formulaic, the gameplay only gets better as you only more abilities for your heroes. 

The first half of Sparks of Hope isn't without its issues. Difficulty levels seem to arbitrarily spike in a handful of the boss fights and other major encounters. This forces you to grind on the side content, which shouldn't be an issue for anyone already completing the most content they can. Just know you will have to engage with a good deal of side content to reach the recommended level cap by the time the final boss rolls around.

As you near the game's end, though, it can get easy to feel unstoppable in regular encounters, so the late-game challenges that do arise are welcome. 

Throughout the entirety of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, I found myself cycling between characters. For almost everyone I found a unique, versatile build. Mario can be a damage-dealing traversal machine, stomping on heads and dashing through Goombas left and right. New character Edge gets a dash that increases her range of movement on every successful hit.

Chaining these free movement damage bonuses together with each character's Sparks and Skills makes for increasingly dynamic and rewarding turns. In these moments, Sparks of Hope shines as an excellent genre-twisted mashup of platforming and strategy. 

The only place where Sparks of Hope fails to match the creativity of the first game is in its storytelling. Not that the writing in Kingdom Battle is especially memorable, but that game has moments of self-awareness that poke fun at the Mario franchise that feel absent in Sparks of Hope. The only fully-voiced characters are your robot companions, including the return of Beep-O, your robot guide who tended to get on my nerves whenever I wasn't skipping through the dialogue.

At best, the writing in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is inoffensive, but at its worst, the humor can be grating for adults. Which is a shame, considering how mature the rest of the decisions in the sequel feel. 

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope Review — The Bottom Line

Pros

• A refined mix of turn-based tactics and Mario-inspired platforming.
• Sparks add a whole new layer of customization and player expressivity.
• Heroes are balanced and each worth using and leveling.

Cons

• Supporting characters are awfully annoying.
• Random difficulty spikes can be frustrating.

Both a great entry point and a refreshing departure for fans of the genre, the sequel to Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle adds an approachable flexibility to the first game's formula. This creative approach to the tactics genre finally gives the series an identity of its own. It won't be winning any awards for its writing, but Sparks of Hope still manages to be a blast at nearly every turn.

Merging tactics, RPG elements, and platforming, the Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is one of the best Mario spin-offs on the Switch. 

[Note: Ubisoft provided the copy of Mario+Rabbids: Sparks of Hope used for this review.]

When you reach Pristine Peaks, the second world of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, you might notice some evasive penguins running about. These aren't just here for the cuteness factor; they're for a quest entitled "Hide N' Squeak." Mario and his Rabbid friends are tasked with tracking down three penguins near the sunken ship in the lake. 

The reward for finishing this quest is the incredibly useful Spark, Regenesis. This unique Spark will greatly boost any teammate's survivability. Regenesis, as the name implies, gives the hero equipping it Regen. When used in combat, it refills 20% of a Hero's health for two turns, as well as the character's Max HP by 15%, and that's before you start upgrading the Spark. 

Regenesis will come in mighty handy in the long tactical road ahead, so it is well worth knowing where and how to rustle up the second world's pesky penguins. By following the steps in this guide, you'll quickly and easily be on the path to adding a serious upgrade to your arsenal.

How to Start Hide N' Squeak

To start the side quest, you must speak to the Regenesis Spark near the sunken ship in Pristine Peaks. Once you've begun the side quest, you can begin collecting the Penguins. 

Penguin 1 Location

The first and closet penguin can be found just North of where the Regenesis Spark is hanging out. To the left of the bridge, you'll see a block of ice that you can destroy using your Wave Power ability on the ZR button. 

Pick up the penguin with the A button and then take it back to the lake. Face the boat, and press A to throw the penguin in. 

Penguin 2 Location

Cross the bridge near where you found Penguin 1. Keep going past the merchant until you are at the open ice cave. Do not go into the cave. Instead, look to your left, and you'll see a sparkling tree where the second Penguin is perched. Now you know where to go to knock him down from his hiding place. 

Once you have the second penguin in hand, turn back to the lake (it should be a pretty short run from your location), and throw the second penguin onto the boat. 

Penguin 3 Location

This one is the furthest and trickiest to get to, by far. First, go to the merchant and then hug the path around the lake to the right. Go down the hill, either fighting or running past the enemies, and enter the pipe at the bottom on your left.

From here, smash a stone wall obstacle using your Wave Power. This will allow you to cross a gap and use the pipe on the other side to reach the area where the final penguin resides.

This area is full of pipes that only the penguin can access. It will juke you out, so stay on your toes to outmaneuver the little bugger. After capturing the penguin, jump down with the Penguin in your hands. Turn to the left, and toss it in the boat with ease. 

To unlock Regenesis, complete a battle after retrieving all three penguins. Head down to the bottom of the lake to complete "Top of the Lake," where you'll be required to defeat three Darkmess Eyes in one encounter. After, you'll have completed "Hide N' Squeak."

And that's it for the penguin locations. For any more Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope tips and tricks, head on over to our dedicated guides page for the title.

One of the additions to Ubisoft's latest Mario + Rabbids offering is the titular Sparks of Hope. These creatures are the Rabbid form of Lumas from Super Mario Galaxy. Each of your party members in the Mario crossover tactics game can equip up to two Sparks. 

Many of these Sparks will allow you to perform more powerful and specialized attacks by using Super Effects, which, in turn, provide different damage types and adjustments for each encounter. Enemies will also target you with Super Effects, and depending on which Sparks you have activated, they can either deal increased or diminished damage to your heroes. 

These damage types are important to Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, and knowing the effects of each is crucial to becoming a strategic master of the battlefield. 

Spark Super Effects Explained

A majority of the Sparks you'll find in the early game will give your weapons Super Effects that change their damage type and inflict additional effects. If properly matched to an enemy's weakness, these Super Effects can cause massive damage and debilitate tactical positioning. 

There are seven Super Effects in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, and each of them can used to your advantage against a number of enemy types. Just remember to keep in mind your opponent's strengths and weaknesses. If you attack an opponent using a Super Effect they are strong against, they will take less damage than they would from a regular attack. 

Burn 

The Burn Super Effect causes Burn damage, lighting enemies on fire and causing them to leap out from cover and run around. Any enemies (or allies) they touch will also get a Burn effect, displacing them from cover and also doing some damage. This is a great Super Effect for making multiple enemies vulnerable in the middle of your turn. 

Splash 

The Splash Super Effect deals Splash damage and causes the target to fly into the air and land in a random area. This is a great way to knock enemies out of bounds. Any Splash attack also gives enemies the Splashed effect, which will throw them in the air after any other attack for a limited number of turns.

Ooze

The brand new Ooze Super Effect is essentially Sparks of Hope's version of poison. Inflicting Ooze will cause a target to take damage at the start of their next turn (and additional turns if you upgrade your Sparks enough.) It can be a great way to deal with those tricky, tank-y enemies and bosses. 

Frostbite 

If you are in a sticky situation and need to make an escape, the Frostbite Super Effect might just be your best friend. Inflicting Frostbite on a target prevents them from moving on their next turn, effectively trapping them in one position. When a Frostbitten target's turn comes around, they can still attack, use items, and take all other actions with the exception of moving. 

Shock

The Shock Super Effect is a pretty straight forward effect, causing damage over time. Any target hit by the Shock Super Effect will suffer continuous damage until the effect wears out. 

Gust 

The Gust Super Effect works a bit like a combination of the Burn and Splash effects. When you inflict Gust on an enemy (or have it inflicted upon you), the target will roll in the direction you are attacking. This is great for rolling enemies out of bounds or out of cover. 

Lifesteal 

The Lifesteal Super Effect is unlocked in the second half of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. Essentially, it's just the Vamp Super Effect from Kingdom Battle and allows you to heal yourself for as much damage as you do to the enemy. This is, frankly, the Super Effect that you are going to have to worry more about enemies using against you for the majority of the game. 

And that's what you need to know about Super Effects. For anything and everything else you need to know about Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, including how to unlock the hidden skill tree or how to unlock characters, head on over to our dedicated guides page. 

All characters in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope have four skill trees into which you can distribute your skill points. But what the game only hints at is that all of the nine characters also have a hidden, fifth skill tree that allows you to unlock extra special abilities. 

The secret skill tree in Sparks of Hope has, naturally, to do with the Sparks you collect throughout the game, each of which can be leveled up and assigned to any character. The fifth talent tree lets you put points into abilities that make your Sparks stronger and more useful. 

Hidden Spark Skill Trees Explained

To access the Spark Skill Tree for each character, including those you've unlocked, you'll need to unlock them one by one using a special type of rare upgrade material. In order to earn Gold Prisms, you'll need to revisit old worlds that you have completed and be on the lookout for Gold Pipes that wouldn't let you through the first time around. 

How to Get Gold Prisms

Every world in Mario + Rabbids: Spark of Hope contains a golden pipe that you will not be able to traverse until you have unlocked a certain number of Sparks. These require you to return at later points in the game. We advise you return much later, however, since there are plenty of other worthy traits to spend your skill points on, and these encounters can be quite challenging. Once you have a decent number of sparks more than the required amount is a good place to take on the challenge. 

By completing the encounters in these golden pipe challenges, you'll unlock Gold Prisms. Each pipe challenge will reward you with one Gold Prism you can spend on any hero to unlock their Spark skill tree. 

There seem to be more characters in your party than prisms available in the game, so be sure to spend them wisely. Unlike skill points, you can't get Gold Prisms back once you spend them on a hero. You'll need to be careful when unlocking the hidden skill tree abilities. For more tips, guides, and news on Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, such as our Super Effects guide, be sure to check out our guide page for Ubisoft's latest crossover title. 

One of the main ways Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope differs from the first game in Ubisoft's tactics series is the characters you play as and how to unlock them.

In Mario+Rabbids Kingdom Battle, you only begin with three playable characters in your party (Mario, Rabbid Peach and Rabbid Luigi) and Mario was required to be in your party at all times. Throughout the campaign of Kingdom Battle you would progressively unlock the rest of the roster. 

Sparks of Hope works the same way in that you unlock more characters by making progress through the single-player campaign. However, there are some key differences to the way characters work that make it a whole lot quicker to work up to a full roster in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. 

How to Unlock Characters in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope 

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope gives you more characters than its predecessor, starting you off with six before working your way to the full squad of nine.

From the jump you will be able to choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, Rabbid Peach, Rabbid Mario, and Rabbid Luigi. From here, It is relatively breezy task to unlock the remaining three characters on the roster.

By playing through the first three of the five worlds in Sparks of Hope you will unlock the three remaining heroes — Edge, Rabbid Rosalina, and Bowser. 

How to Unlock Edge the "Blade Master"

Edge is an original character created for Sparks of Hope and she has a pretty killer moveset. This witty blademaster throws her sword for power at both close and medium range. You unlock Edge once you complete the first of the two story missions on Beacon Beach, the game's first world. 

How to Unlock Rabbid Rosalina the “Demotivator”

Since Sparks of Hope is expanding on many ideas from Super Mario Galaxy, it only makes sense that Rosalina would show up. Only this time, she is in Rabbid form.

Rabbid Rosalina is — like Rabbid Luigi — another character whose focus is debuffing enemy units. You will unlock Rabbid Rosalina by defeating the Spark Hunter Boss Midnite. The encounter with Midnite is at the end of Winter Palace, the game's second world. 

How to Unlock Bowser the "Overseer" 

The final character to unlock is Bowser, and you can do so by defeating the first boss of Palette Prime, the game's third world. When you beat the boss Bedrock, you will free Bowser from Palette Prime’s first Darkmess Tentacle and the king of Koopas will be added to your party. 

And that is where every locked character in Mario+Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is found. For now, that's the entire roster but Ubisoft has already begun teasing DLC that will bring more characters to the game. Head on over to our dedicated game page for more news and guides on Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. 

Nintendo and Ubisoft announced Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope for Nintendo Switch during the Ubisoft Forward E3 2021 event. Sparks of Hope is a sequel to 2017's Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle that sees Mario and eight other companions travel across the galaxy to rescue Sparks and restore order to the planets, and it's slated for a 2022 release date.

If it wasn't already apparent, Sparks of Hope draws heavily on Super Mario Galaxy, including planet hopping and even Rabbid Lumas, which will probably end up being as horrifying as they sound.

The Sparks power up Mario and friends during battle. They appear to draw on elements such as ice and fire and hopefully add something similar to classic Mario power-ups that were noticeably missing in Kingdom Battle. The grid-based system is gone in favor of 

Mario's traveling buddies are a bit different this time too. The key art Nintendo provided and the trailer show Luigi, Peach, and Rabbid Peach returning, but they're accompanied by Rabbid Rosalina and a big-haired Rabbid that looks like he jumped out of an anime series. Mario is dual-wielding pistols, and Rabbid Peach has an assault rifle, while Luigi wields a bow instead of his sniper weapon from the original.

Stay tuned for more on Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle 2 Sparks of Hope as we learn it.