The Last of Us Part II
Storyline
The storyline is a crucial aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games did not disappoint in this regard. From the epic Norse mythology of God of War to the post-apocalyptic world of Horizon Zero Dawn, each game had a unique and engaging story that kept players hooked from start to finish. Some games, like Red Dead Redemption 2, even offered players the chance to shape the story through their choices and actions. Overall, the top 10 games of the year proved that a great storyline is still the backbone of any successful game.
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year did not disappoint in this aspect. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive open-world of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offered a unique and engaging gameplay experience. The Last of Us Part II’s stealth mechanics and intense combat sequences kept players on the edge of their seats, while Hades’ addictive rogue-like gameplay kept them coming back for more. Whether it was exploring the vast world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla or solving puzzles in the charming world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the gameplay of these top 10 games was nothing short of exceptional.
Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in the gaming experience, and this year’s top 10 games have certainly delivered in this aspect. From the stunningly realistic environments of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the vibrant and colorful world of Super Mario Odyssey, each game has its own unique visual style that immerses players in its world. The attention to detail in character design, lighting, and special effects is truly impressive, making it hard to believe that these are just digital creations. Overall, the graphics in these games have set a new standard for the industry and have left players in awe.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack:
The soundtrack of a game can make or break the overall experience. This year, several games stood out for their exceptional soundtracks. “Death Stranding” featured a hauntingly beautiful score composed by Ludvig Forssell, while “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” had a stunning orchestral soundtrack by Gareth Coker. “Final Fantasy VII Remake” also impressed with its updated version of the classic soundtrack, which perfectly captured the nostalgia of the original game. Overall, the soundtracks of these games added an extra layer of emotion and immersion to the gameplay, making them stand out as some of the best games of the year.
Ghost of Tsushima
Setting
Setting:
The setting of a game can be just as important as the gameplay itself. This year’s top 10 games feature a wide range of settings, from the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Fallout 4 to the lush, open world of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Some games, like Bloodborne and Dark Souls III, take place in dark, gothic environments that are as haunting as they are beautiful. Others, like Rocket League and Splatoon, have more lighthearted settings that are just as engaging. No matter the setting, each of these games offers a unique and immersive experience that is sure to captivate players.
Combat System
Combat System:
One of the most important aspects of any game is its combat system. This year, several games stood out for their innovative and engaging combat mechanics. For example, Ghost of Tsushima’s combat system was praised for its fluidity and depth, allowing players to seamlessly switch between different stances and weapons to take on different types of enemies. Similarly, Hades’ combat system was lauded for its fast-paced, skill-based gameplay, which kept players on their toes throughout each run. Other notable games with impressive combat systems include Doom Eternal, which offered a satisfying mix of gunplay and melee combat, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps, which combined platforming and combat in a way that felt both challenging and rewarding. Overall, this year’s top games proved that a well-designed combat system can make all the difference in creating an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
Visuals
Visuals are an essential aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have set a new standard for graphics and design. From the stunningly realistic environments of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the vibrant and colorful world of Super Mario Odyssey, each game has its unique visual style. The attention to detail in games like God of War and Spider-Man is impressive, with intricate character designs and breathtaking landscapes. The use of lighting and shadows in games like Celeste and Return of the Obra Dinn adds to the overall atmosphere and immersion. Overall, the visuals in this year’s top 10 games are nothing short of breathtaking, and they have raised the bar for future game development.
Sound Design
Sound Design:
Sound design is an essential aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have truly raised the bar. From the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Ori and the Will of the Wisps to the heart-pumping beats of Doom Eternal, each game has its unique sound signature. The Last of Us Part II’s sound design is particularly noteworthy, with its realistic and immersive sound effects that add to the game’s emotional impact. Ghost of Tsushima’s use of traditional Japanese instruments and ambient sounds also deserves a mention, as it transports players to feudal Japan. Overall, the sound design in these games is a testament to the creativity and dedication of the developers.
Hades
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year have certainly delivered in this aspect. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive world of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience. The Last of Us Part II’s stealth mechanics and intense combat encounters keep players on the edge of their seats, while Hades’ addictive rogue-like gameplay keeps them coming back for more. Whether you prefer open-world exploration or linear storytelling, the top 10 games of the year have something for everyone when it comes to gameplay.
Art Style
Art Style:
One of the most important aspects of any game is its art style. This year, we saw a wide range of art styles in the top 10 games. Some games, like Ori and the Will of the Wisps and Ghost of Tsushima, featured stunningly beautiful and detailed environments that were a joy to explore. Others, like Hades and Fall Guys, had a more cartoonish and whimsical art style that perfectly matched their lighthearted gameplay. And then there were games like The Last of Us Part II and Doom Eternal, which had a darker and more realistic art style that helped to create a sense of tension and danger. Overall, the art styles of the top 10 games of the year were diverse and impressive, and they played a big role in making these games so memorable.
Narrative
Narrative is an essential element of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have not disappointed in this regard. From the emotional and thought-provoking story of The Last of Us Part II to the epic and immersive world-building of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, each game has its unique narrative style. Ghost of Tsushima’s exploration of honor and sacrifice in feudal Japan and Hades’ retelling of Greek mythology through a rogue-like game format are also noteworthy. The narrative of these games not only adds depth to the gameplay but also creates a memorable experience for players.
Replayability
Replayability is a crucial factor for gamers when it comes to choosing a game to invest their time and money in. A game with high replayability value means that players can enjoy it multiple times without getting bored or feeling like they’ve exhausted all the content. This year, games like Hades, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Among Us have proven to have excellent replayability. Hades, a rogue-like dungeon crawler, offers players a unique experience with every playthrough, while Animal Crossing: New Horizons allows players to create their own island paradise and continuously add new features. Among Us, a multiplayer game of deception, has become a sensation due to its endless possibilities for different outcomes and strategies. These games have set a high bar for replayability, and it will be exciting to see what future games will bring to the table.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year have certainly delivered in this department. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive open-world of Ghost of Tsushima, each game has its own unique gameplay mechanics that keep players engaged and entertained. The Last of Us Part II, for example, offers a mix of stealth, combat, and exploration that seamlessly blends together to create a truly cinematic experience. Meanwhile, Animal Crossing: New Horizons provides a relaxing and addictive gameplay loop that has kept players coming back for more. Overall, the top 10 games of the year have set a high bar for gameplay, and have proven that a great game is more than just flashy graphics and a compelling story.
Customization
Customization has become an increasingly important aspect of modern video games, and 2021 was no exception. From character creation to weapon upgrades, players were given more control than ever before over their gaming experience. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla allowed players to fully customize their character’s appearance, while titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War and Apex Legends gave players the ability to personalize their weapons with unique skins and attachments. The level of customization available in these games not only adds to the overall enjoyment of the game but also allows players to express their individuality and creativity.
Multiplayer
Multiplayer gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years, and 2021 was no exception. Among the top 10 games of the year, several featured robust multiplayer modes that kept players engaged for hours on end. From the intense battles of Halo Infinite’s multiplayer to the cooperative gameplay of It Takes Two, there was something for everyone. Other notable multiplayer games included Back 4 Blood, which offered a thrilling zombie-killing experience, and Knockout City, a unique take on dodgeball that quickly became a fan favorite. With so many great multiplayer games to choose from, it’s no wonder that this mode continues to be a major draw for gamers around the world.
Music
Music is an integral part of any game, and this year has seen some exceptional soundtracks. From the haunting melodies of Death Stranding to the upbeat tunes of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the music in these games has added an extra layer of immersion and emotion. The jazzy soundtrack of Hades perfectly complements the game’s fast-paced action, while the orchestral score of The Last of Us Part II heightens the tension and drama of the game’s story. Overall, the music in these top 10 games of the year has been a standout aspect, showcasing the talent and creativity of the composers and musicians involved.
Doom Eternal
Combat System
The combat system is a crucial aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games did not disappoint in this regard. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the strategic battles of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offered a unique and engaging combat experience. Some games, like Hades and Ori and the Will of the Wisps, incorporated combat seamlessly into their platforming mechanics, while others, like The Last of Us Part II and Final Fantasy VII Remake, utilized a more traditional RPG-style combat system. Regardless of the approach, each game on this list delivered thrilling and satisfying combat encounters that kept players coming back for more.
Level Design
Level design is an essential aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have set the bar high. From the intricate and challenging levels of Hades to the open-world exploration of Ghost of Tsushima, each game has its unique approach to level design. The Last of Us Part II, for instance, features a meticulously crafted world that immerses players in a post-apocalyptic setting. Meanwhile, Ori and the Will of the Wisps offers stunningly beautiful environments that are both challenging and rewarding to explore. Overall, the level design in this year’s top 10 games showcases the creativity and innovation of game developers in creating immersive and engaging worlds for players to explore.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack:
The soundtrack of a game can make or break the overall experience. This year, several games stood out for their exceptional soundtracks. “Death Stranding” featured hauntingly beautiful music composed by Ludvig Forssell, while “Final Fantasy VII Remake” brought back classic tracks with a modern twist. “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” had a stunning orchestral score that perfectly captured the game’s emotional moments. “The Last of Us Part II” also had a memorable soundtrack, with composer Gustavo Santaolalla returning to create a haunting and emotional score that perfectly complemented the game’s themes. Overall, the soundtracks of these games added an extra layer of immersion and emotion to already incredible gaming experiences.
Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in the gaming experience, and this year’s top games did not disappoint in this aspect. From the stunningly realistic environments of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the vibrant and colorful world of Super Mario Odyssey, the graphics of these games were truly breathtaking. The attention to detail in character design, lighting, and textures made each game feel like a work of art. Even smaller indie games like Celeste and Gris showcased beautiful and unique art styles that added to the overall charm of the game. Overall, the graphics of these top 10 games were a testament to the incredible advancements in technology and artistry in the gaming industry.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Art Style
Art Style:
One of the most important aspects of a game is its art style. It can make or break a game’s success. This year, we saw a variety of art styles that were both visually stunning and unique. Games like “Cuphead” and “Hollow Knight” used hand-drawn animation to create a nostalgic feel, while “God of War” and “Red Dead Redemption 2” utilized realistic graphics to immerse players in their worlds. “Celeste” and “Return of the Obra Dinn” opted for pixel art, which added to their retro charm. Overall, the art styles of these games were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the overall gameplay experience.
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year have certainly delivered in this regard. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive open-world exploration of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience. The Last of Us Part II, for example, features a seamless blend of stealth, combat, and exploration, while Hades offers a challenging and addictive roguelike experience. Whether you prefer first-person shooters, role-playing games, or platformers, there’s something for everyone in this year’s top 10 games.
Music
Music is an integral part of any game, and this year has seen some exceptional soundtracks. From the haunting melodies of Death Stranding to the upbeat tunes of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the music in these games has added an extra layer of immersion and emotion. The jazzy soundtrack of Hades perfectly complements the game’s fast-paced action, while the orchestral score of The Last of Us Part II enhances the game’s already emotional storyline. Overall, the music in these top 10 games of the year has been nothing short of exceptional.
Storyline
The storyline is a crucial aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games did not disappoint in this regard. From the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us Part II to the Norse mythology-inspired world of God of War: Ragnarok, each game had a unique and engaging storyline that kept players hooked from start to finish. Some games, like Deathloop and Returnal, even incorporated time loops and alternate realities into their narratives, adding an extra layer of complexity and intrigue. Overall, the top 10 games of the year showcased some of the most compelling and well-crafted storylines in recent gaming history.
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Storyline
The storyline is a crucial aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have some of the most captivating narratives in recent memory. From the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us Part II to the Norse mythology-inspired world of God of War: Ragnarok, each game offers a unique and immersive story that keeps players engaged from start to finish. Whether it’s the emotional journey of a young girl and her robot companion in Kena: Bridge of Spirits or the epic space opera of Mass Effect Legendary Edition, the storylines in these games are sure to leave a lasting impression on players long after the credits roll.
Combat System
The combat system is a crucial aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games did not disappoint. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the strategic battles of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offered a unique and engaging combat experience. Some games, like Hades and Ori and the Will of the Wisps, incorporated combat seamlessly into their platforming gameplay, while others, like The Last of Us Part II and Final Fantasy VII Remake, focused heavily on narrative-driven combat. Overall, the combat systems in these top 10 games were well-crafted and added to the overall enjoyment of the gaming experience.
Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in the gaming experience, and this year’s top 10 games have certainly delivered in this aspect. From the stunningly realistic environments of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the vibrant and colorful world of Super Mario Odyssey, each game has its own unique visual style that immerses players in its world. The attention to detail in character design, lighting, and special effects in games like God of War and Spider-Man is truly impressive. Overall, the graphics in these top 10 games have set a new standard for what is possible in the gaming industry.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack:
Music can make or break a game, and this year’s top 10 games have some truly standout soundtracks. From the hauntingly beautiful melodies of “Death Stranding” to the adrenaline-pumping beats of “Doom Eternal,” these games have music that perfectly complements their gameplay and enhances the overall experience. “Final Fantasy VII Remake” also deserves a special mention for its stunning orchestral score, which brings the beloved classic to life in a whole new way. Whether you’re battling demons in hell or exploring a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the soundtracks of these games will transport you to another world.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in the gaming experience, and this year’s top 10 games have set a new standard for visual excellence. From the stunningly realistic environments of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the vibrant and colorful world of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, each game has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in terms of graphics. The attention to detail in games like God of War and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is truly impressive, with intricate character designs and breathtaking landscapes. Overall, the graphics in these top 10 games have not only enhanced the gameplay but have also created immersive and unforgettable worlds for players to explore.
Realism
Realism has become an increasingly important aspect of video games in recent years, and 2020 was no exception. Games like The Last of Us Part II and Ghost of Tsushima pushed the boundaries of what is possible in terms of graphics and immersion. The attention to detail in these games is truly impressive, from the way characters move and interact with their environment to the realistic sound design. Even games like Microsoft Flight Simulator, which is all about simulating real-world flying, have taken realism to new heights. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more realistic and immersive gaming experiences in the years to come.
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have not disappointed in this regard. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive world of Ghost of Tsushima, each game has its own unique gameplay mechanics that keep players engaged and entertained. The Last of Us Part II, for example, offers a mix of stealth, combat, and exploration that seamlessly blends together to create a truly immersive experience. Meanwhile, Hades’ roguelike gameplay keeps players coming back for more, as they try to escape the underworld with each playthrough. Overall, the gameplay in these top 10 games is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the gaming industry.
Multiplayer
Multiplayer gaming has become an integral part of the gaming industry, and this year has seen some exceptional multiplayer games. Among the top 10 games of the year, several stand out for their multiplayer features. Games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Apex Legends, and Fortnite have continued to dominate the multiplayer scene, offering players a range of exciting gameplay modes and features. Other games like Rainbow Six Siege and Overwatch have also maintained their popularity, thanks to their engaging multiplayer gameplay and regular updates. Overall, the multiplayer category has been fiercely competitive this year, with each game offering unique experiences and challenges for players to enjoy.
Crusader Kings III
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year did not disappoint in this regard. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive open-world exploration of Ghost of Tsushima, each game offered a unique and engaging gameplay experience. The Last of Us Part II pushed the boundaries of storytelling and player choice, while Animal Crossing: New Horizons provided a relaxing and customizable escape from reality. Whether you prefer first-person shooters, RPGs, or simulation games, the top 10 games of the year had something for everyone when it came to gameplay.
Strategy
Strategy is an essential component of any game, and this year’s top 10 games did not disappoint in this regard. From the tactical planning required in games like XCOM 2 and Civilization VI to the fast-paced decision-making of games like Overwatch and Rainbow Six Siege, players were challenged to think critically and strategically in order to succeed. The variety of gameplay styles and strategies required in these games made for a truly engaging and rewarding experience for players who enjoy a good challenge. Whether you prefer to outsmart your opponents or outmaneuver them, the top 10 games of the year offered plenty of opportunities to flex your strategic muscles.
Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in the gaming industry, and this year has seen some of the most visually stunning games to date. From the breathtaking landscapes of Ghost of Tsushima to the hyper-realistic character models of The Last of Us Part II, developers have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in terms of graphics. The use of ray tracing technology has also become more prevalent, allowing for more realistic lighting and reflections in games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Overall, the graphics in this year’s top games have been nothing short of impressive, immersing players in stunningly detailed worlds and enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Replayability
Replayability is a crucial factor when it comes to determining the best games of the year. A game that can be played over and over again without losing its charm is a true gem. This year, several games have stood out in terms of replayability. For instance, Hades, a rogue-like game, offers a unique experience every time you play it. The game’s procedurally generated levels and different weapons and abilities make each playthrough feel fresh. Another game that has impressed in terms of replayability is Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The game’s open-ended gameplay and daily events keep players coming back for more. Overall, the games that offer the most replayability are the ones that keep players engaged and entertained long after their initial playthrough.
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Gameplay
Gameplay is the heart and soul of any game, and the top 10 games of the year have all delivered in this aspect. From the fast-paced action of Doom Eternal to the immersive open-world of Ghost of Tsushima, each game has its own unique gameplay mechanics that keep players engaged and entertained. The Last of Us Part II, for example, features a seamless blend of stealth, combat, and exploration, while Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a relaxing and addictive experience through its life simulation gameplay. Whether you prefer first-person shooters, role-playing games, or sports simulations, the top 10 games of the year have something for everyone when it comes to gameplay.
Multiplayer
Multiplayer gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years, and 2021 was no exception. Among the top 10 games of the year, several stood out for their exceptional multiplayer experiences. “Call of Duty: Vanguard” offered intense and immersive multiplayer battles across a variety of game modes, while “Halo Infinite” brought back classic multiplayer gameplay with new features and improvements. “Back 4 Blood” provided a thrilling co-op experience, allowing players to team up and fight against hordes of zombies. Overall, the multiplayer aspect of these games added a new level of excitement and social interaction to the gaming experience.
Visuals
Visuals play a crucial role in the gaming experience, and this year’s top 10 games have certainly delivered in this aspect. From the stunningly realistic graphics of “Red Dead Redemption 2” to the vibrant and colorful world of “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate,” each game has its own unique visual style that immerses players in its world. “God of War” also deserves a special mention for its breathtakingly beautiful environments and character designs. Overall, the visuals of these games have not only enhanced their gameplay but also elevated the medium of video games as a whole.
Sound Design
Sound Design:
Sound design is an essential aspect of any game, and this year’s top 10 games have set a new standard for immersive audio experiences. From the hauntingly beautiful score of “Death Stranding” to the heart-pumping sound effects of “Doom Eternal,” each game has its unique sound design that adds to the overall gameplay experience. “The Last of Us Part II” stands out for its exceptional sound design, which perfectly captures the game’s tense and emotional moments. The game’s audio team used a combination of realistic sound effects and a hauntingly beautiful score to create an immersive and emotional experience for players. Overall, the sound design in this year’s top 10 games is a testament to the importance of audio in creating a truly immersive gaming experience.
