The weekend has arrived once more, seemingly faster than the last. As we settle into our Friday routine, we’ve curated a list of digital adventures to occupy your leisure time. While our comprehensive review of Crimson Desert is already live, much of the team is just beginning their own journey into its sprawling world. Beyond that epic, we’re eyeing the diamond in MLB The Show 26, diving into co-op battles in Ghost of Yōtei Legends, and exploring several other notable releases.
In a brief departure from the console, Matt Miller and I recently attended the premiere of Project Hail Mary at the new IMAX theater in Lakeville, Minnesota. Joined by former editor Ben Reeves, we found the cinematic adaptation to be exceptionally compelling—perhaps even surpassing the original novel in its delivery. It’s a hearty recommendation for any sci-fi enthusiast.
Before we dive into our specific weekend picks, here is a look at the most significant headlines from the past week:
- Crimson Desert Review – Navigating Open-World Excess
- Marathon – Initial Impressions and Review in Progress
- World of Warcraft: Midnight – A Triumphant Homecoming
- Anticipating the Future: Top 10 Nintendo Switch 2 Titles
- Switch 2 Technical Update: Enhanced Performance in Handheld Mode
- A Culinary Critique: The Best and Worst Pies in Gaming
Crimson Desert
Contributor: Eric Van Allen
For those seeking a game that can effortlessly consume forty-eight hours, Crimson Desert is the definitive choice. Pearl Abyss has crafted a single-player odyssey that is currently the epicenter of industry conversation. It is a vast, visually arresting playground that encourages exploration and rewards curiosity at every turn.
My perspective aligns with our colleague Hayes: at its peak, the game is a technical masterpiece, delivering a sense of scale and majesty that is rare in modern gaming. Conversely, it can sometimes feel like a chaotic collection of systems that don’t always harmonize perfectly. My advice? Prioritize the Greymane camp questline and don’t neglect your wrestling abilities—there is a unique joy in delivering a Stone Cold Stunner to an armored foe in the heart of Pywel.
Parseword
Contributor: Charles Harte
Josh Wardle, the mind behind the Wordle phenomenon, has debuted a fresh challenge called Parseword. While it may not achieve the same cultural ubiquity as its predecessor, it is a masterfully designed experience for fans of linguistics. It functions as an approachable entry point to cryptic crosswords, demystifying a notoriously difficult genre.
Cryptic clues are essentially verbal puzzles where the definition and the construction of the word are hidden in plain sight. Parseword assists the player by clearly identifying definitions and providing interactive tools to manipulate letters. It’s a sophisticated, rewarding way to spend a few minutes each day, turning a confusing hobby into an accessible pastime.
MLB The Show 26
Contributor: Brian Shea
I’ve spent the last several days immersed in MLB The Show 26, and Sony San Diego continues to prove why they lead the sports genre. The “Road to the Show” mode feels more refined than ever, but the real standout is the revamped Franchise mode. It has evolved from the rigid “March to October” structure into a deeply customizable experience that caters to long-term strategists. The fundamental gameplay remains unparalleled; the tactile satisfaction of a perfect home run or a clutch defensive play is still very much intact.
Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War
Contributor: Marcus Stewart
Rather than mimicking modern squad shooters, Ultimate Bug War takes a nostalgic turn toward the “boomer shooter” aesthetic of the 1990s. It’s a visceral, first-person experience that captures the weight and impact of retro combat while utilizing contemporary physics.
There is a therapeutic quality to dismantling hordes of insects across sprawling maps, flavored with the series’ signature satirical propaganda. The inclusion of live-action cutscenes featuring Casper Van Dien as Johnny Rico adds a layer of B-movie charm that perfectly complements the frantic action. It’s a loud, proud, and incredibly fun tribute to the franchise.
Ghost of Yōtei Legends
Contributor: Kyle Hilliard
After being thoroughly captivated by Atsu’s journey last year, I jumped at the chance to return to Ezo through the new Legends co-op mode. Remarkably, Sucker Punch has released this as a free update for owners of the base game, completely devoid of microtransactions. It is a refreshing departure from the predatory monetization found in most modern multiplayer titles.
Though I usually prefer solitary adventures, the rhythmic and brutal combat of Ghost of Yōtei translates beautifully to a cooperative setting. Fighting supernatural variants of familiar foes alongside other players has been a highlight of my week, proving that the game’s combat systems are deep enough to sustain multiple styles of play.
Marvel Rivals – Season 7
Contributor: Matt Miller
Marvel Rivals continues its impressive momentum with the launch of Season 7. The primary draw this time is Silver Fox, a versatile strategist capable of turning the tide with potent healing abilities. The new season also expands the narrative, focusing on a fresh crisis within a stylized New York City. With a new Battle Pass and the upcoming addition of Black Cat and a Lower Manhattan map, the game feels more vibrant than ever. It strikes a rare balance between chaotic superhero brawling and genuine tactical depth.
Planet of Lana II: Children Of The Leaf
Contributor: Matt Miller
Wishfully has crafted a stunning sequel that matches the emotional resonance of its predecessor. Planet of Lana II is a masterclass in wordless storytelling, utilizing breathtaking visuals and clever environmental puzzles to forge a bond between the player and their companion, Mui. It’s a standalone experience that welcomes newcomers while rewarding returning fans. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet intellectually stimulating weekend, this is a must-play.
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach (PC Release)
Contributor: Kyle Hilliard
The PC port of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach arrived this week, bringing Hideo Kojima’s latest vision to a new audience. While the game has its eccentricities and occasional pacing lulls, its earnestness is undeniable. The PC version is the definitive technical showcase, offering unlocked framerates, ultra-widescreen support, and advanced upscaling features. Whether you’re a returning Porter or stepping into the chiral network for the first time, this bizarrely beautiful world is worth the journey for its sheer originality.
