Neon White had been on my radar for awhile but I truly didn't know what I was getting into. If you want insanely kinetic and smooth gameplay that really tests your reflexes, then this is exactly what you're looking for. Every level provides a challenge that feels fun, and the multiple weapon types really make the movement puzzles fresh every single chapter. The Shotgun, RPG and the final type you get are by far the most enjoyable to use. It also helps that you have an amazing soundtrack done by Machine Girl to help puncuate the action. It's very easy to find a level you vibe with, and just continously attempt to shave seconds off your time, I know I sure did. The only real weakness of Neon White, to me, is the writing can be a bit much sometimes, it's not hard to see why some call this a "reddit" game, but honestly, I don't find it as bad as most. The cast is overall solid, with White and Mikey being my standouts. I only just beat it, and I already feel that itch to jump back in and run more levels, it's that addicting.

Super Metroid was always gonna have big shoes to fill after the non-stop praise I've heard for it over the years, and boy did it succeed and then some. I was worried about getting lost but much to my surprise, the map flows together pretty well, and very rarely did I ever feel like I didn't know where to go next. The physics feel weighty and once you get used to it (and also change your buttons because my god the default is not good for modern controllers), it feels super smooth to play. The real fun is learning the tech like bomb jumping to really make the most out of the exploration. In terms of atmosphere and music, it's pretty unrivaled in how on edge it can make you feel, outside of Fusion's Horror-esque vibes. I think my only complaint really is Maridia as an area is a total chore to navigate through, especially the sandy patches, but it's the only blight on a damn near perfect package. Onwards to Metroid Dread

It only took 200ish hours but I finally finished Xenoblade Chronicles 3 and to nobody's surprise, its my favourite of the bunch. There are plenty of things that XBC3 improves upon within the franchise, but I think it's biggest strong suit is the story this time around. It might have some of the best twists and overall storytelling I've seen in a piece of media. The gameplay is likely at its peak, with the new party size, chain attacks, and class switching making combat feel extremely enjoyable. The music goes without saying, to be honest, its a Xenoblade game, of course the music is gonna go absolutely crazy. XBC3 isn't without some minor faults, things like the Chain Attack music interrupting the OST, some side quests feeling like a chore, and just the overall lack of solid tank classes, but even with those gripes, I can't deny that the pros definitely outweigh the cons on every level.
All hail the commander of Colony 11