I’m looking for action hidden gems, preferably scripted and linear—no open world or procuderal generation (roguelike, roguelike-like, or roguelite)
Some of my “usual suspects” favorites are Bayonetta, The Wonderful 101, Viewtiful Joe, God Hand, and Ninja Gaiden II. On the shmup/twin-stick shooter side: Crimzon Clover, Ketsui, and Assault Android Cactus+.
I also love Catherine, so I wouldn’t mind some puzzle thrown in there.
As nonlinear as I can go: The Deadly Tower of Monsters.
Brigador is amazing! The flavor text is so good I went out of my way to purchase it all (in game money, but still). Even better, it gives you hints of powerful combos to try out, amongst the many many possible combinations. It’s a fantastic blend of Mechwarrior, with Syndicate graphics, with a brilliant soundtrack. Such a gem!