STACK #253 November 2025

GAMING PREVIEWS

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WHAT’S OUT Words Amy Flower

No matter what style of game is your vibe, there’s sure amongst these fresh releases heading to JB this month.

EDITOR’S PICK KIRBY AIR RIDERS RELEASE DATE: Nov 20 GENRE: Racing FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Nintendo’s GameCube console gave us many treasures, and one of the biggest cult classics amongst them was Kirby Air Ride , starring everybody’s favourite pink glob of glorious goodness. Unlike the majority of Kirby’s outings, it was basically a racing game, but not just another spin on the karting genre. 22 years, and two extra letters later, we now look forward to this month’s direct sequel, Kirby Air Riders . Original creator Masahiro Sakurai returns as director, his first time back in that role with Kirby since that original racer. So, what‘s in store for us? A super-fun 3D racing game through all sorts of weird, wild, and, of course, cute environments that’s suitable for racers of all ages. It has simple controls but requires all sorts of strategy to be the best – including mastering Kirby’s legendary ability to absorb the

LET’S SING 2026 RELEASE DATE: Nov 4 GENRE: Party FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes

ANNO 117: PAX ROMANA RELEASE DATE: Nov 13 GENRE: Strategy FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: No The Roman Empire is yours to shape in this strategic builder game, the latest

Sometimes you just have to sing, so it’s great that Let’s Sing is always there. This

year’s model promises to be even better, too, with the addition of a bunch of the hottest hits from Antipodean acts. Warble 35 new smashes from the past and present, with more tracks available via the VIP Pass. Let rip solo or with up to four others, using a USB mic or your ever faithful smartphone.

in the storied series. Construct cities, manage economies, and expand provinces as you govern through diplomacy, trade, or military power, while balancing the demands of your people and the emperor. Explore diverse regions, engage in land and naval battles, and make impactful decisions – the fate of your empire is up to you.

HELLO KITTY AND FRIENDS: FREEZE TAG PARTY RELEASE DATE: Nov 18 GENRE: Party FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Tag, you’re it in this magical action game

SHREDDERS RELEASE DATE: Nov 13 GENRE: Sports FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Drop into a huge, open world love letter to snowboarding, as you ride with real

pro riders, and master tricks from parks to backcountry. Kick off filming goofy videos, then level up with sponsor deals, epic gear, and a shot at an elite invitational. With lifelike controls and deep style customisation, Shredders brings the thrill of real snowboarding to life, solo or online – and with much less risk to life and limb!

where you join your favourite Sanrio characters in exciting tag battles! Play as a Challenger or Hunter, using each character’s unique magical skills. There are 35-plus adorable characters to unlock, 70 missions to complete, and dress-up fun with super cute outfits. With co-op play and collectible rewards, it’s a charming, fast-paced adventure for fans of all ages.

HYRULE WARRIORS: AGE OF IMPRISONMENT RELEASE DATE: Nov 6 GENRE: Action FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Nintendo and Koei Tecmo join forces

CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS 7 RELEASE DATE: Nov 14 GENRE: Shooter FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes

Get thrown headlong into a mind boggling 2035 future war, where

psychological warfare and global chaos collide. Led by David Mason, your elite JSOC team uncovers a dark conspiracy in the city of Avalon – and are drawn into their haunted pasts. With a captivating co-op campaign, evolved movement, 6v6 and 20v20 multiplayer maps, plus a terrifying return to Zombies, Black Ops 7 is wilder than ever!

again for the latest hack and slash outing in the super-fun Hyrule Warriors series, this time for the new Switch 2. As you may have guessed, it’s another crossover game that sees The Legend of Zelda collide majestically with Dynasty Warriors . The story serves as a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom , and the game promises what may be the series’ most epic battles yet.

DOUBLE DRAGON REVIVE RELEASE DATE: Nov 7 GENRE: Fighting FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes The classic coin gobbling ‘80s arcade beat ’em up makes a triumphant return,

REMATCH: ELITE EDITION RELEASE DATE: Nov 14 GENRE: Sports FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes It’s time to get physical as this Elite Edition kicks off a fresh, fast-paced,

powers of adversaries, no matter who you’re racing as. Whether playing with friends or family, locally or online, we can’t wait to get back in the pink!

with all the upgrades that you’d expect in 2025. Thrill to modern 3D graphical updates and careful control tweaks, as you again take on the roles of the Lee brothers, survivors of the nuclear war of 15 years past, who take it upon themselves to fight back against the evil gang Shadow Warriors and their plans to take over the town.

third person take on 5v5 soccer where every move, pass, and goal is up to you. With no fouls, no breaks, and no player stats, these multiplayer matches are all about skill, strategy, and teamwork. Dive into relentless action, compete online, and enjoy a raft of included bonus DLC gear. Rematch is soccer for the next generation.

Answers: 1. John 2. Cold War 3. Dynasty Warriors 4. Mirror’s Edge 5. Project CARS 6. Bastion 7. Sensible Soccer 8. 1602

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GAME EXAM

18 NOVEMBER 2025

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