Despite the game’s niche’-ness, it should feel instantly familiar to anyone who has played a modern action RPG. There’s a lot of combat, dialogue trees with interesting characters, a few side activities, and plenty to learn. Lots of staples of the genre are here like fast travel totems, manual save points, and mild exploration being rewarded with extra items, but what will quickly become apparent to anyone playing this game is that it’s a cut above most of its contemporaries.

Taishi is an instantly likeable character that clearly only wants the best for his ill sister and others he cares about. Despite his immense skill and popularity with decorated warriors, he holds back – focusing instead on the well-being of his little sister in a world that orphaned both of them many years ago. Just as soon as you get your bearings on their situation, they’re attacked by monsters that roam the countryside, mortally wounding his sister.

"Simple at first but quickly blossoming into an intricate system of upgrades and enhancements, Xuan Yuan Sword 7’s combat is crisp and poignant."

From there on, the story is focused on our hero returning his sister’s soul to her body, as he fights through legions of mythological beasts, rival warriors, and others. Taishi meets several characters along the way, and it’s impossible to ignore how well written and performed their many conversations are. Obviously, some characters are more interesting than others, but the core cast is consistent with fascinating personalities that fill out their roles within the story well. Seeing Taishi and his sister deepen as characters is an always entertaining centerpiece of the narrative. While healing his sister is undeniably the north star of the story, there are several parallel threads that lean into bigger, broader concepts to pay attention to as well.

Simple at first but quickly blossoming into an intricate system of upgrades and enhancements, Xuan Yuan Sword 7’s combat is crisp and poignant. Sword slashes generally deal better damage but hand-to-hand blows are more likely to stun enemies and lead to executions by wearing down enemy stamina. Strikes with most weapons are fast, dodging feels nimble, and peppering in some of Taishi’s martial arts and other auxiliary moves on top of the basic combos is routinely satisfying regardless of the situation. This only improves further as more fantastical abilities become available. The enemy lock-on is very welcomed and helpful as it lets you switch to the next nearest enemy with the flick of the right stick.

Evolving our hero’s abilities quickly becomes and stays engaging with different garments, weapons, and stances that can really nudge combat into some distinct directions. Once you really start to harness everything the game’s combat has to offer, you’ll be gleefully cutting through enemies, with both worldly and otherworldly techniques at your disposal. Enemy variety here isn’t the best, but it does shuffle its handful of enemy types around with variations and different combinations in group fights enough to keep things from getting too stale. Most of the game’s enemies don’t really punish or reward you for any techniques in particular, so it might feel a bit shallow to some, especially for the first few hours, but there’s also something to be said for a game letting you find your favorite handful of moves and just enjoy using them. Xuan Yuan 7’s combat mostly sticks the landing here with a system that never overwhelms yet rarely feels simple. It progresses into its complexities at a fairly leisurely pace, giving you plenty of time to soak up the story and atmosphere as you advance through the largely linear adventure.

"You’ll also be spending a bit of time on the game’s many puzzles that can really start off as headscratchers but usually come together logically after a brief period of befuddlement. I’m generally not big on puzzles but still found most of these to be fun to figure out."

You’ll also be spending a bit of time on the game’s many puzzles that can really start off as headscratchers but usually come together logically after a brief period of befuddlement. I’m generally not big on puzzles but still found most of these to be fun to figure out. Your mileage may vary of course, but the game does mercifully give you opportunities to skip said puzzles if you want.

As you run down any of Xuan Yuan Sword 7’s many straight-forward paths, you’ll often notice just how beautifully designed the environments are. Shadows of leaves dance on the ground as wind and light flow through the trees and each of the game’s many areas feel unique from each other despite all of them clearly belonging to this world. The outdoor areas are highlighted greatly by what feels like a day-night cycle that you generally only see in more open-world games. Interior areas however – especially caves and ancient structures – can sometimes be a bit too dark to really appreciate the detail that went into them. But thanks to the game’s linear design and constant presence of subtle destination markers, you’ll rarely if ever feel lost or confused navigating through them.

Character models are also equally admirable despite their movements lacking some of the subtler nuances that you might be expecting after playing a western action game with a much bigger budget. That said, the characters’ somewhat stilted movements don’t do much to hold back their well-performed voices and general vibe. Each and every interaction feels meaningful in one way or another, and that’s the most important thing. Overall, Xuan Yuan Sword 7’s visual presentation is great despite it not quite holding up to some of its AAA contemporaries in 2021 in a superficial sense. For what this game is, the visuals are appealing and more than satisfactory.

"There’s so much to like about Xuan Yuan Sword 7 that it’s all the more shocking that so many of us are only being properly introduced to the series now, three decades into its existence."

Audio is similarly well-calibrated with punctual sound effects that complement the swift combat and authentic music that conveys the vaguely defined fictitious version of its era. Bigger battles are often accompanied by bombastic orchestral pieces with modern twists that really make those battles stand out in more ways than just visually. Voice acting, from what I can tell, seems to be top notch. I might not know the language, but I do sense the emotive and measured performances of each and every character, and it doesn’t go unnoticed while reading the subtitles.

There’s so much to like about Xuan Yuan Sword 7 that it’s all the more shocking that so many of us are only being properly introduced to the series now, three decades into its existence. All’s well that ends well though, as this is an outstanding game with a lot to show for its many years of evolution. Thanks to a combat system that is just as fun as it is deep, a story that is just as engaging as it is unique, and excellent presentation across visuals and sound, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is one of the most recommendable games I’ve played all year. The handful of legitimate nit-picks that can be made do very little to hold back what is, ultimately, a superb video game. Hopefully Domo Studio gets the widespread recognition they deserve for this game, and we see more from them as well as this series in the near future.

The PlayStation 4 version of the game was reviewed on the PlayStation 5 via backward compatibility.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

As the follow-up to Pathfinder: Kingmaker, Wrath of the Righteous promises much higher stakes as the player ventures to the Worldwound to fight off hordes of demons arriving through the rift. Along with leading an army to battle with new tactical options, there are 10 unique companions that will fight alongside you. This is on top of 25 classes, 12 races and tons of different abilities and customization options that the classic Pathfinder combat that fans know and love (this time with a turn-based option at launch). Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous releases on September 2^nd for PC.

WRC 10

Despite Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown being a year away, Nacon has WRC 10 releasing on September 2^nd worldwide (September 7^th for North America). Along with the Croatia Rally and Rally de Catalunya, the sequel will feature numerous historical cars like the Audi Quattro and Lancia Delta Group A to celebrate the World Rally Championship’s 50^th anniversary. Considering the jump in quality that last year’s iteration offered, it may be worth checking out WRC 10 when it releases for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4 and PS5 in the coming days.

F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch

Set in Torch City following the Machine Legion’s invasion several years ago, players control Rayton, a former soldier trying to rescue his friend. At his disposal are a mechanical Power Fist, Whip and Drill which can be used to pull off some crazy combos. With a grungy but beautiful aesthetic and tons of areas to explore, F.I.S.T.: Forged in Shadow Torch should be worth checking out for genre fans when it releases on September 7^th for PS4, PS5 and PC.

Sonic Colors: Ultimate

It’s not everyday that a good Sonic game gets a remastered re-release but 2010’s Sonic Colors is thankfully getting another opportunity to shine. The Ultimate version is out on September 7^th for Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC and PS4, and sees Sonic and Tails traveling to Doctor Eggman’s Incredible Interstellar Amusement Park to rescue the mysterious Wisps. Along with offering a mix of 2.5D side-scrolling and fast-paced 3D platforming, various mechanics like Boost and drifting are available. On top of this, Sonic can use eight different abilities from the Wisps, like drilling through the ground and transforming into a laser. In terms of improvements, expect a higher frame rate and resolution, the Jade Ghost Wisp, a re-recorded OST and Rival Rush for racing against Metal Sonic

The Artful Escape

First showcased in March 2017, The Artful Escape is finally nearing release after seeing numerous delays throughout the years. The musical platforming adventure sees one Francis Vendetti set to make his debut under the shadow of his legendary uncle and thus struggling to find his own identity. Thus does he embark on a psychedelic new journey through various musical landscapes, using his guitar to platform and battle foes. With a gorgeous art-style and sound-tracked effused with epic themes, The Artful Escape could end up being an underrated classic when it launches on September 9^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC and iOS.

Life is Strange: True Colors

Life is Strange returns and this time, empathy is your superpower. It’s a little more complicated than that for True Colors’ protagonist Alex Chen who reunites with her brother Gabe in Haven Springs. The scenic beauty and spirit of the community is ultimately unsettled when Gabe passes away from an accident. With the ability to read people’s emotions as different colors, Alex goes about investigating his death. Life is Strange: True Colors is a full release instead of being broken into episodes and is out on September 10^th for Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Google Stadia.

Lost in Random

Lost in Random appears, at first, to be an action adventure title with a Tim Burton-esque aesthetic, centering on Even as she explores the Kingdom of Random to save her sister Odd. However, everything in Random is determined by games and Even must take part in game board-style battles to prevail. She’ll have Dicey on hand to help though – attacking enemies will power its abilities and unleash unique cards, whether it’s explosives or barriers. Out on September 10^th, Lost in Random will be available for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.

NBA 2K22

Another year, another NBA 2K title and while I’m personally not a fan of the series microtransaction-laden gameplay, there is quite a bit that’s new in NBA 2K22. Gameplay-wise, precision jump shots, blocking and more are being changed; MyNBA returns with its customizable features (only on Xbox Series X/S and PS5 though) while MyWBNA is being introduced; and MyCareer’s The City is even larger while Hidden Talents provides alternate ventures like fashion and hip-hop. PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC players aren’t being swept aside entirely either thanks to the addition of the 2K Cruise, which offers unique Excursions and events in various locations. NBA 2K22 launches on September 10^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch so we won’t have to wait long to see how much it improves.

Tales of Arise

The Tales series returns with its biggest, most epic title to date in Tales of Arise. The story sees the denizens of Rena subjugating Dahna, enslaving its people and exploiting their resources. As Alphen, a Dahnan man without any memories, players team up with Shionne of Rena and embark on a journey to free the oppressed. Along with meeting other party members and traveling the world, players will utilize new skills like Boost Strike and Counter Edge in the revamped combat system. Activities like fishing, farming and more are also available along with the return of skits. Tales of Arise releases on September 10^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PC and PS5, and promises to be about as long as Tales of Berseria (which is a good thing).

Deathloop

Ever get that feeling of deja vu? For hitman Colt Vahn, it only felt like yesterday when he arrived on Blackreef to take out the Visionaries, a mysterious group harnessing the island’s technology to party eternally. It’s up to Colt to kill all of his targets before midnight, utilizing a mix of stealth, abilities and firearms before the loop resets. In the midst of all of this is agent Julianna, either controlled by AI or another player, who seeks to protect the loop (and mess with Colt as much as possible). With Arkane’s unique brand of sandbox gameplay and a rocking aesthetic, Deathloop promises to be a fun spin on the roguelite genre when it releases on September 14^th for PS5 and PC.

Aragami 2

Much like the original, stealth and shadow control are key in Lince Works’ Aragami 2. This time around though, players have more freedom and opportunities to sneak around the world, playing alone or in three-person squads in co-op. A variety of powers and abilities are available while combat has been improved to be more skill-focused (though it’s still inherently riskier than stealth). Extensive customization, improved visuals and a more effective story should make Aragami 2 a cut above its predecessor when it releases on September 17^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and PC.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits

Numerous delays haven’t dulled the beauty of Ember Lab’s upcoming action adventure title and it’s finally releasing on September 21^st for PS4, PS5 and PC. Kena: Bridge of Spirits follows spirit guide Kena as she travels to a decrepit village and looks to ferry the spirits of its deceased to the afterlife. Along the way, Kena will meet small spirits called the Rot who will help solve puzzles and fight off enemies. With a soothing animated aesthetic and solid gameplay, Kena: Bridge of Spirits is looking very appealing.

Lake

Lake, an indie adventure from developer Gamious, looks to take players on a more grounded kind of escape when it releases on September 1^st. As Meredith Weiss, you venture to Providence Oaks in Oregon for two weeks, taking a sabbatical from your old software development job to deliver the mail. Talk to and hang out with the different residents, or simply stay at home to read; experience branching storylines and ultimately determine your path in life. If a chill adventure game sounds good to you, then Lake may be worth checking out when it comes to Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.

Diablo 2: Resurrected

After the failure of Warcraft 3: Reforged (not to mention tons of controversy at Activision-Blizzard), Diablo 2 is next in line to be remastered. The visuals have been improved tremendously while still keeping true to the original’s aesthetic as players explore Sanctuary as one of seven classes to defeat the forces of evil. Support for 4K resolution, cross-progression and quality of life features like auto pick-up for gold and Shared Stash tabs make this a lot more inviting for today’s players but it’s still the classic action RPG that fans grew up with. Diablo 2: Resurrected releases on September 23^rd for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch.

Sable

Another interesting title in the “chill adventure” genre is Shedworks’ Sable, which releases on September 23^rd for Xbox Series X/S and PC. Boasting gorgeous visuals, the story centers on Sable as she ventures out into the world to find a mask and complete her clan’s rite of passage. She’ll traverse dunes on her customizable hoverbike, investigate strange ruins and ultimately learn more about the mysterious world while forging her own path.

Death Stranding Director’s Cut

The journey of Sam and B.B. came to a relatively satisfying conclusion when Death Stranding released last year. However, the Director’s Cut – which launches on September 24^th for PS5 – proves that there’s still room for improvement. It adds numerous new tools, like a Buddy Bot that can carry Sam and thrusters for safe landings when jumping from high places; the new Fragile Circuit for races, complete with time trials and leaderboards; a new Firing Range with practice and Ranked Drills; replays for boss fights; and some new story content that promises more stealth-based action. This is in addition to new graphics modes like upscaled 4K/60 FPS and native 4K, support for the DualSense’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers and an option for PS4 players to upgrade to the Director’s Cut Digital Deluxe Edition on PS5 for just $10.

Lost Judgment

What defines justice? Former lawyer turned private detective Takayuki Yagami seeks to answer this while delving into a strange murder. Lost Judgment sees players venturing to Isezaki Ijincho to go undercover in a school and while there are activities like dancing, drone combat and boxing, themes of bullying and abuse also come to light. Overall, the sequel improves on pretty much every aspect of the original, adding a new combat Style, parkour for platforming, more in-depth stealth mechanics, better chase sequences and much more. It arrives on September 24^th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and Xbox One.

New World

Even with so many delays over the years – including a recent one from August to September – enthusiasm for Amazon’s New World is still strong. The MMO takes a somewhat different direction from its competition, focusing on the interactions between the three factions on Aeternum Island. Though the island has its own unique mysteries and PvE content, players will spend time creating settlements, battling those from other factions and establishing their own foothold. It’s out on September 28^th for PC with a beta on September 9^th but whether it can maintain its momentum after launch remains to be seen.

Hot Wheels Unleashed

Milestone’s Hot Wheels Unleashed may not be the most realistic-looking racer but it is looking to be the best possible Hot Wheels title ever made. With over 60 cars, from real-world vehicles to fantasy offerings like the Batmobile and Knight Rider, it offers a variety of twisting, turning tracks set in real-world environments. Players can also partake in the track builder and create their own unique courses, or go on online to challenge players (though offline split-screen is also available). Hot Wheels Unleashed arrives on September 27^th for Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

Xuan Yuan Sword 7

Released last October for PC, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is coming to PS4 in September and offers hack and slash RPG action with the backdrop of Chinese mythology as Taishi Zao battles monsters and  seeks to unravel the mystery behind a strange bamboo slip. Along with creating unique techniques, players can improve their armor and weapons while leveraging the fast-paced combat to dominate foes. As a somewhat off-beat option, it may be worth checking out when it releases on September 31^st.