- Halo Infinite
Absolutely a terrific experience from start to finish. Really enjoyed my time with it, and it reignited my interest in the franchise and world of Halo. Even got me reading the books that I’ve owned for ages and never found the time to start. It is a well deserved return to form for the series and I’m looking forward to what comes next.
- Guardians of the Galaxy
What can I say, while I’ve loved previous Eidos games, I did not expect to have this game in my top 10 list, particularly at the top. This game’s marketing failed it, because it’s a fun, well-told adventure, with great pacing and likable characters that you just don’t seem to see much these days. Highly recommended.
- Psychonauts 2
Double Fine still have it. I played Psychonauts 1 not that long before 2, for the very first time, and it was incredible to me how starting 2 really felt like I was continuing the adventure with the same characters and all the same beats, when there was such a long gap between the games. The characters, art style, music, writing, everything is fantastic and enjoyable. Truly a great game.
- It Takes Two
Wow! The production values really saw a step-up from A Way Out. This was such a fun game to play through with a friend. It always kept the gameplay fresh and entertaining. I think the story started to drag a little in the backend, but overall I really enjoyed my time with it and can’t wait to see what Hazelight do next.
- Death’s Door
If there weren’t such amazing games above it in my top 10, this little game would be number 1 for its soundtrack alone. It’s an absolutely beautiful game with a terrific atmosphere and though the gameplay is somewhat simple, it’s still challenging and engrossing. It deserves all the accolades it gets.
- Forza Horizon 5
A beautiful game with tight gameplay that just innovates enough to keep the formula entertaining. You can’t get a better chill experience than this. While it’s online functionality was a little spotty, I still have enjoyed my time with it so far, and it’s earned its spot on my SSD until the next one comes out.
- Hitman 3
IOI delivered another fantastic addition to the series and a warm farewell to this trilogy. While it’s budget constraints were obvious at times, it’s a beautiful game that delivers excellent gameplay in a superb package with just enough hooks in the story to keep you interested while staying out of your way as you repeat the missions again and again to see all the hidden elements. While I’ve never really cared much for 007, I’ll be paying attention to Bond due to IOI alone.
- Hades
Seemingly as a staple of their games, just like Bastion and Transistor before it, Hades is a masterclass of an indie with a striking art style, a beautiful soundtrack, and fantastic voice acting and writing. If I enjoyed the rougelike mechanics a little more, this game would be higher on my list. It still managed to keep me hooked for a good 20 hours which is no mean feat with rougelikes.
- Resident Evil Village
I really enjoyed this game, it felt AAA in all the right ways, but I felt it played it a little safe and it didn’t capture me as much as VII. As usual with RE games, the first third was the best part of the game, and the back third was filled with crazier and crazier twists that just don’t hold up to scrutiny. I look forward to seeing where they take the series next however.
- Twelve Minutes
Ok, this one’s controversial. It definitely isn’t for everyone, and it doesn’t do everything right, but it’s a true indie experience that will engross you all the same. It’s got beautiful music, great acting, charming little touches throughout, let down by its writing and a lack of really interactive setpieces. I still think this game is worth trying out, despite its flaws, I really enjoyed my time with it.
Honorable Mentions: Back 4 Blood, The Gunk, Far Cry 6, Tales of Arise, The Medium.
It caught me by surprise.
