1000xRESIST

At its core, 1000xRESIST is a walking simulator. That may sound reductive, but the first game from developer sunset visitor does so much with this often-derided genre that it’s endlessly impressive. This sci-fi adventure through the memories of a young girl turned god and her army of clone children has shades of NieR and 13 Sentinels, but stands tall on its own merits with a sprawling narrative built on fantastic characters and beautiful writing. And while its mind-bending sci-fi twists are terrific, there’s more going on here too, as 1000xRESIST’s human story touches on generational trauma and Asian diaspora. It’s an achingly personal and specific narrative, but one that is made universal through its excellent execution. It’s also a game about mother-daughter relationships, so if you want to work out any mommy issues, you have to remember the tissues while playing. — Willa Rowe