For the second month in a row, we find ourselves staring down a Friday the 13th. While some might view this back-to-back occurrence as an ill omen, we’re taking it as a sign to dive deeper into our backlogs. This weekend, we aren’t just fixated on the macabre; we’re balancing our time between Klei’s latest chaotic brawler and the creature-collecting charm of the Monster Hunter universe. Of course, there’s always room for a little heavy-hitting action in the squared circle. We are also still consistently losing hours to Pokémon Pokopia, Slay the Spire 2, and the high-stakes world of Marathon.
Before you settle into your couch for the next 48 hours, here is a quick look at the headlines that defined the week:
- Donkey Kong Bananza: Creators reflect on the overwhelming power of the Elephant transformation.
- GDC 2026: A roundup of the most innovative titles from this year’s conference.
- WWE 2K26 Review: Examining the friction between monetization and gameplay.
- Project Helix: Xbox reveals the technical blueprint for its next-gen hardware.
- Remake Radar: Every major reimagining currently in development.
- Monster Hunter Stories 3: A deep dive into the stunning “Twisted Reflection.”
Rotwood
By Matt Miller
After a successful stint in early access, Rotwood has finally arrived on PC and the Switch 2. This roguelite brawler seamlessly blends the frantic energy of Castle Crashers with the tactical depth found in Hades. As you venture into its stylized, cartoonish world, the difficulty ramps up significantly, requiring players to master gear upgrades and ability synergies. While the aesthetic is welcoming and lighthearted, the core combat system offers a satisfying level of complexity that rewards long-term play. If you’re looking for a cooperative experience that is easy to pick up but difficult to put down, Klei’s latest effort is an essential weekend play.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
By Charles Harte
While Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection doesn’t reinvent the turn-based RPG wheel, its sheer charm and vibrant art direction make it incredibly inviting. Transitioning from the role of a hunter to a rider, you’ll focus on hatching “Monsties” and building a diverse team. The late-game combat can occasionally feel like a grind, but the loop of exploring vast environments to scavenge for rare eggs remains addictive. For fans of the franchise, seeing iconic creatures reimagined in this expressive style is a treat. It’s a massive, content-rich JRPG that provides a perfect escape for those looking to lose themselves in a beautiful world.
Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake
By Kyle Hilliard
I’ll be the first to admit that I struggled with this remake. However, horror is subjective, and what felt cumbersome to me might be the exact atmospheric tension you’re looking for this Friday the 13th. The game is undeniably haunting and visually striking. My advice? Scale back the difficulty to focus on the narrative and the chilling atmosphere rather than getting bogged down by the finicky camera mechanics. If Japanese horror isn’t your speed, you can always revisit the masterful Resident Evil Requiem for a different kind of terror.
WWE 2K26
By Marcus Stewart
Despite some noted frustrations with the live-service elements, WWE 2K26 remains a blast when you focus on the core action. With the Road to WrestleMania heating up, now is the ideal time to step into the ring. If the simulation-heavy mechanics feel too sluggish, I recommend toggling off the stamina and weight detection settings to create a faster, arcade-style experience. Beyond the matches, the creation suite is as robust as ever. I’ve spent hours meticulously designing custom attire for the Motor City Machine Guns, and I plan to spend the rest of the weekend booking shows in MyGM while catching up on my favorite podcasts.
