1. Elden Ring

Dark Souls’ Meaner, Open-World Cousin
Elden Ring is that friend who invites you on an “easy hike” but conveniently leaves out the fact that it’s uphill both ways, through poison swamps, while dragons throw lightning at you. It’s a game for those who enjoy the thrill of finally killing a boss after 273 tries, only to find an even scarier one waiting around the next corner. If you’re into pain and beautiful landscapes, it’s like paradise… with lots of death.

2. Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Slinging, Swinging, and Still Broke in New York
Ever wanted to live the life of a superhero? You know, save the city, wear a cool suit, and… scramble to pay your rent because even spider-powered heroes struggle with NYC prices. Miles Morales is here to show you how to look cool in the middle of a snowstorm while fighting crime and dealing with the personal issues only a teenage superhero could have. Just don’t ask him how he keeps his mask so clean.

3. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

The Ultimate Pixar Movie You Get to Play
You’re a fuzzy space raccoon thing with a robot backpack, and your whole job is to travel through intergalactic portals like it’s nobody’s business. It’s colorful, it’s crazy, and there are more explosions than a Michael Bay movie. Plus, this time you get to play as Rivet, a female Lombax who’s got just as much sass and weaponry. Warning: You’ll have the urge to adopt a raccoon and name it “Ratchet” afterward.

4. Returnal

Groundhog Day Meets Alien Horror
In Returnal, you play as an astronaut who’s stuck in a “death-loop” on a creepy alien planet. Every time you die (which will happen a lot), you wake up again… just in time to make the same mistakes! It’s like reliving Monday mornings but with acid-spitting aliens and lots of guns. Perfect for players who love a challenge — and who don’t mind talking back to their screens.

5. Demon’s Souls

Because “Easy Mode” Was Never an Option
This is a “remake” of a notoriously difficult game from 2009, but with graphics so beautiful you almost forget you’re being crushed by yet another giant demon. Playing Demon’s Souls is basically signing up for self-punishment and somehow loving every second. The whole point? To prove you have the patience of a saint or, at the very least, the perseverance of a person who just really hates losing.