Forza Horizon 5 is a damn impressive game regardless of how similar it may feel to its predecessor. The massive map size in Mexico is varied enough to keep the races engaging, and the visuals on the Series X never disappoint. While I certainly have issues with how overwhelming the map can feel at times, this is still without question, one of the best games of the year.

Riders Republic may be a successor to Steep, but it does just enough new to really feel like the birth of a new franchise. From biking to snowboarding to tearing it up in the skies with your rocket pack, Riders offers a thrilling series of races and events that shine, even if some small issues set it back and keep it from standing tall on the winner’s podium.

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is a surprisingly fantastic game that felt constantly rewarding with an iteration of the team that ends up delivering a heartfelt and memorable campaign. As Star Lord, you’ll attempt to keep the team from killing each other as a threat looms over the entire galaxy, one that will require the team to come to rely on each other in ways they never expected.