EDIT 2: since 2017 and 2007 were strongly mentioned years too, I have edited the poll so everyone feel free to specifically move their vote to thhose options. I now that it is a bit unfair since most people have already voted and won't come again to change their vote, and this will make that the options will not be accurately represented, but better late than never!
EDIT: I would like to point out that, for me, the best year was 1998, not 2020!
Disclaimer: the fact that Metacritic and Opencritic reviews are linked does not serve the purpose of justifying that specific games are good or bad, but to provide a tool for users to be able to easily see what games are being discused and to have acces to major reviews to get better insight about
the mentioned games, since probably many users haven't had the chance to play absolutely all of the games discussed.
With 2020 coming to an end and every major release already reviewed, I think it is fair to start an interesting discussion regarding videogames. I know that 2020 has actually been a really terrible year in every country around the world and for every user in this forum due to Covid-19, so in no way I'm downplaying the influence that this horrific pandemic has had in everybody's lifes. Once this has been made clear, let's get into matter.
2020 has undoubtedly provided us with a large amount of high quality games, from little indies to major AAA releases. Even though this is a matter that has been subject to constant discussion, the main consensus (or at least, the point of view that has major visibility within gaming community when this topic arises) is that 1998 is probably among the most noticeable/best year in videogames history.
This might the first time that a true contender has arisen to dispute 1998's "champion belt", so let's get a visual summary about how has 2020 performed. The following list does not correspond with a top list, so higher or lower in the list does not mean better or worse. Every game will be accompanied by a brief non spoilery synopsis and links to metacritic and opencritic:
- Persona 5 Royal:
- The Last of Us Part 2:
- Hades:
- Half-Life: Alyx: alf-Life:
- Ori and the Will of the Wisp:
- Demon's Souls:
- Microsoft Flight Simulator:
- Cyberpunk 2077:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons:
- Doom Eternal:
- Final Fantasy VII Remake:
- 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim:
- Wasteland 3:
- Spiritfarer:
- Marvel's Spiderman: Miles Morales:
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon:
- Genshin Impact:
- Crash Bandicoot 4:
- Assassin's Creed: Valhalla:
- Resident Evil 3:
- Ghost of Tsushima:
- Gears Tactics:
- Sackboy: a big adventure:
- Dirt 5:
- Valorant:
- Fall Guys:
- Spelunky 2:
Other mentions:
Crusader Kings III
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2
F1 2020
Tetris Effect: Connected
Black Mesa
Football Manager 2021
Nioh 2
Streets of Rage 4
Astro's Playroom
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
I might be forgeting some great titles, so that gives you an idea of the hugh amount of videogame releases that we have had this year. I have also tried to represent different styles and genres.
Now, let's go with what 1998 offered us (this time I'm not providing links of synopsis since they are already well known games):
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Tekken 3 (home consoles)
Half-Life
Gran Turismo
Metal Gear Solid
Pokemon Red & Pokemon Blue
Grim Fandango
Banjo-Kazooie
Thief: The Dark Project
Baldur's Gate
Unreal
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
Resident Evil 2
Starcraft
Tenchu: Stealth Assassins
Fallout 2
Turok 2: Seeds of Evil
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six
F-Zero X
Star Wars: Rogue Squadron
Xenogears
WipeOut 64
Final Fantasy Tactics
Parasite Eve
Tomb Raider III
For me this is a difficult take. There is no discussion that many of those 1998 games are among the greatest of all time, and not only that, but also they just defined videogame history in general. So, I'm still keeping with 1998.
What's Era's take on this one?
EDIT: I would like to point out that, for me, the best year was 1998, not 2020!
Disclaimer: the fact that Metacritic and Opencritic reviews are linked does not serve the purpose of justifying that specific games are good or bad, but to provide a tool for users to be able to easily see what games are being discused and to have acces to major reviews to get better insight about
the mentioned games, since probably many users haven't had the chance to play absolutely all of the games discussed.
With 2020 coming to an end and every major release already reviewed, I think it is fair to start an interesting discussion regarding videogames. I know that 2020 has actually been a really terrible year in every country around the world and for every user in this forum due to Covid-19, so in no way I'm downplaying the influence that this horrific pandemic has had in everybody's lifes. Once this has been made clear, let's get into matter.
2020 has undoubtedly provided us with a large amount of high quality games, from little indies to major AAA releases. Even though this is a matter that has been subject to constant discussion, the main consensus (or at least, the point of view that has major visibility within gaming community when this topic arises) is that 1998 is probably among the most noticeable/best year in videogames history.
This might the first time that a true contender has arisen to dispute 1998's "champion belt", so let's get a visual summary about how has 2020 performed. The following list does not correspond with a top list, so higher or lower in the list does not mean better or worse. Every game will be accompanied by a brief non spoilery synopsis and links to metacritic and opencritic:
- Persona 5 Royal:
"Prepare for an all-new RPG experience in Persona 5 Royal based in the universe of the award-winning series, Persona! Don the mask of Joker and join the Phantom Thieves of Hearts. Break free from the chains of modern society and stage grand heists to infiltrate the minds of the corrupt and make them change their ways! Persona 5 Royal is packed with new characters, confidants, story depth, new locations to explore, and a new grappling hook mechanic for stealthy access to new areas. With a new semester at Shujin Academy, get ready to strengthen your abilities in the metaverse and in your daily life. Persona 5 Royal presents a unique visual style and award nominated composer Shoji Meguro returns with an all-new soundtrack. Explore Tokyo, unlock new Personas, customize your own personal Thieves Den, discover a never-before-seen story arc, cutscenes, alternate endings, and more! Even for the most seasoned Phantom Thieves among us, Persona 5 Royal is a new challenge to defy conventions, discover the power within, and fight for justice. Wear the mask. Reveal your truth".
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Persona 5 Royal
Prepare for an all-new RPG experience in Persona 5 Royal based in the universe of the award-winning series, Persona! Don the mask of Joker and join the Phantom Thieves of Hearts. Break free from the chains of modern society and stage grand heists to infiltrate the minds of the corrupt and make...
www.metacritic.com
Persona 5 Royal Reviews
Persona 5 Royal brilliantly tweaks the original game by building on fan feedback, adding new characters and content that manages to set the bar even higher for what a JRPG can be in the modern...
opencritic.com
- The Last of Us Part 2:
Five years after their dangerous journey across the post-pandemic United States, Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming. Living amongst a thriving community of survivors has allowed them peace and stability, despite the constant threat of the infected and other, more desperate survivors. When a violent event disrupts that peace, Ellie embarks on a relentless journey to carry out justice and find closure. As she hunts those responsible one by one, she is confronted with the devastating physical and emotional repercussions of her actions.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
The Last of Us Part II
The Last of Us Part II for PlayStation 4 game reviews & Metacritic score: Five years after their dangerous journey across the post-pandemic United States, Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming. Living amongst a thriving...
www.metacritic.com
The Last of Us Part II Reviews
Simply put, The Last of Us Part II is yet another masterpiece from Naughty Dog that should not be missed. It's a brutal, poignant, beautiful, cohesive, and thrilling experience.
opencritic.com
- Hades:
Defy the god of the dead as you hack and slash out of the Underworld in this rogue-like dungeon crawler from the creators of Bastion, Transistor, and Pyre. Hades is a god-like rogue-like dungeon crawler that combines the best aspects of Supergiant's critically acclaimed titles, including the fast-paced action of Bastion, the rich atmosphere and depth of Transistor, and the character-driven storytelling of Pyre.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Hades
Defy the god of death as you hack and slash your way out of the Underworld in this rogue-like dungeon crawler from the creators of Bastion and Transistor.
www.metacritic.com
Hades Reviews
Hades is one of the best games of 2020, with amazing worldbuilding, characters, and gameplay that will keep you coming back for hours.
opencritic.com
- Half-Life: Alyx: alf-Life:
Alyx is Valve's VR return to the Half-Life series. It's the story of an impossible fight against a vicious alien race known as the Combine, set between the events of Half-Life and Half-Life 2. Playing as Alyx Vance, you are humanity's only chance for survival. The Combine's control of the planet since the Black Mesa incident has only strengthened as they corral the remaining population in cities. Among them are some of Earth's greatest scientists: you and your father, Dr. Eli Vance.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx for PC game reviews & Metacritic score: Half-Life: Alyx is Valve's VR return to the Half-Life series. It's the story of an impossible fight against a vicious alien race known as the Combine, set betwe...
www.metacritic.com
Half-Life: Alyx for Vive, Oculus Reviews
Half-Life fans will find plenty to love in this groundbreaking VR title.
opencritic.com
- Ori and the Will of the Wisp:
From the creators of Ori and the Blind Forest comes the highly-anticipated sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Embark on an all-new adventure in a vast and exotic world where you'll encounter towering enemies and challenging puzzles on your quest to discover Ori's true destiny. Immerse yourself in a hand-crafted narrative experience with deeply emotional storytelling, strikingly beautiful environments, and a stunning soundtrack. Master new skills to guide Ori through a journey of untold danger using newly acquired spirit weapons, spells, and attacks. Utilize an all-new shard system to power-up Ori's newfound abilities. Face larger-than-life bosses and seek help from an expansive cast of new characters who will help you uncover Ori's mysterious fate. Race to the top of the leaderboards in the all-new Spirit Trials mode where players dash, burrow, grapple, and leap to high scores in unique speed-run challenges throughout the game.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
The little spirit Ori is no stranger to peril, but when a fateful flight puts the owlet Ku in harm’s way, it will take more than bravery to bring a family back together, heal a broken land, and discover Ori’s true destiny. From the creators of the acclaimed action-platformer Ori and the Blind...
www.metacritic.com
Ori and the Will of the Wisps Reviews
With great level design, tight game mechanics, an appropriate level of challenge, beautiful visuals, and a touching narrative, Ori and the Will of the Wisps proves that Moon Studios' isn't...
opencritic.com
- Demon's Souls:
From PlayStation Studios and Bluepoint Games comes a remake of the PlayStation classic, Demon's Souls. Entirely rebuilt from the ground up and masterfully enhanced, this remake introduces the horrors of a fog-laden, dark fantasy land to a whole new generation of gamers. Those who've faced its trials and tribulations before, can once again challenge the darkness in stunning visual quality and incredible performance. In his quest for power, the 12th King of Boletaria, King Allant channelled the ancient Soul Arts, awakening a demon from the dawn of time itself, The Old One. With the summoning of The Old One, a colorless fog swept across the land, unleashing nightmarish creatures that hungered for human souls
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Demon's Souls
From PlayStation Studios and Bluepoint Games comes a remake of the PlayStation classic, Demon’s Souls. Entirely rebuilt from the ground up and masterfully enhanced, this remake introduces the horrors of a fog-laden, dark fantasy land to a whole new generation of gamers. Those who’ve faced its...
www.metacritic.com
Demon's Souls (2020 Remake) for PS5 Reviews
Demon's Souls (2020 Remake) is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 89 critics, with an overall average score of 92. It's ranked in the top 1% of games and recommended by 100% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Microsoft Flight Simulator:
From light planes to wide-body jets, fly highly detailed and accurate aircraft in the next generation of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Test your piloting skills against the challenges of night flying, real-time atmospheric simulation and live weather in a dynamic and living world.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Microsoft Flight Simulator
From light planes to wide-body jets, fly highly detailed and accurate aircraft in the next generation of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Test your piloting skills against the challenges of night flying, real-time atmospheric simulation and live weather in a dynamic and living world.
www.metacritic.com
Microsoft Flight Simulator Reviews
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a technical marvel, with an insane amount of polish, incredible realism, and phenomenal controls.
opencritic.com
- Cyberpunk 2077:
Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world, action-adventure story set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification. Assume the role of V, a mercenary outlaw going after a one-of-a-kind implant that is the key to immortality.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 for PC game reviews & Metacritic score: Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world, action-adventure story set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification. Assume the role of...
www.metacritic.com
Cyberpunk 2077 Reviews
Cyberpunk 2077 is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 213 critics, with an overall average score of 76. It's ranked in the top 33% of games and recommended by 65% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons:
If the hustle and bustle of modern life's got you down, Tom Nook has a new business venture up his sleeve that he knows you'll adore: the Nook Inc. Deserted Island Getaway Package. Sure, you've crossed paths with colorful characters near and far. Had a grand time as one of the city folk. May've even turned over a new leaf and dedicated yourself to public service. But deep down, isn't there a part of you that longs for…freedom? Then perhaps a long walk on the beach of a deserted island, where a rich wealth of untouched nature awaits, is just what the doctor ordered. Peaceful creativity and charm await as you roll up your sleeves and make your new life whatever you want it to be. Collect resources and craft everything from creature comforts to handy tools. Embrace your green thumb as you interact with flowers and trees in new ways. Set up a homestead where the rules of what goes indoors and out no longer apply. Make friends with new arrivals, enjoy the seasons, pole-vault across rivers as you explore, and more.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
If the hustle and bustle of modern life’s got you down, Tom Nook has a new business venture up his sleeve that he knows you’ll adore: the Nook Inc. Deserted Island Getaway Package. Sure, you’ve crossed paths with colorful characters near and far. Had a grand time as one of the city folk. May’ve...
www.metacritic.com
Animal Crossing: New Horizons for Switch Reviews
Animal Crossing New Horizons provides the perfect escapist fantasy with new features and stunning visuals providing plenty of reasons to keep coming back again and again and again...
opencritic.com
- Doom Eternal:
DOOM Eternal is the direct sequel to 2016's DOOM. Developed by id Software, DOOM Eternal delivers the ultimate combination of speed and power, along with the next leap in push-forward, first-person combat. As the DOOM Slayer, you'll return to take your vengeance against the forces of Hell. Set to an all-new pulse-pounding soundtrack composed by Mick Gordon, you fight across dimensions as you slay new and classic demons with powerful new weapons and abilities. [Bethesda]
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
DOOM Eternal
DOOM Eternal is the direct sequel to 2016's DOOM. Developed by id Software, DOOM Eternal delivers the ultimate combination of speed and power, along with the next leap in push-forward, first-person combat. As the DOOM Slayer, you’ll return to take your vengeance against the forces of Hell. Set...
www.metacritic.com
DOOM Eternal Reviews
DOOM Eternal builds on the 2016 reboot by further polishing every aspect of it's gameplay, visuals and soundtrack to create the ultimate DOOM experience.
opencritic.com
- Final Fantasy VII Remake:
Long ago, we looked upon a foreboding sky. The memory of the star that threatened all burns eternal in our hearts. In its wake came an age of silence. Yet with each fond remembrance, we knew those encountered were not forgotten, that some day we would see them again. Perhaps it was no more than wishful thinking. But after the long calm, there are the beginnings of a stir. The reunion at hand may bring joy, it may bring fear, but let us embrace whatever it brings. For they are coming back. At last the promise has been made.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Final Fantasy VII Remake for PlayStation 4 game reviews & Metacritic score: Long ago, we looked upon a foreboding sky. The memory of the star that threatened all burns eternal in our hearts. In its wake came an age of silence. Yet with...
www.metacritic.com
Final Fantasy VII Remake for PS4, PS5 Reviews
Final Fantasy VII Remake is a masterpiece to be enjoyed by both long-time fans and Midgar newcomers that will leave you wanting more.
opencritic.com
- 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim:
A departure from the studio's traditional fantasy style, the game takes place in a modern setting punctuated with giant mechs. Although the world may be bleak, Vanillaware's signature artistic shine and gorgeous aesthetics will bring the characters and story of 13 Sentinels to life.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
A departure from the studio's traditional fantasy style, the game takes place in a modern setting punctuated with giant mechs. Although the world may be bleak, Vanillaware's signature artistic shine and gorgeous aesthetics will bring the characters and story of 13 Sentinels to life.
www.metacritic.com
13 Sentinels Aegis Rim Reviews
13 Sentinels Aegis Rim is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 120 critics, with an overall average score of 86. It's ranked in the top 4% of games and recommended by 97% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Wasteland 3:
In Wasteland 3 you take command of a squad of Desert Rangers, lawmen and women in a post-nuclear world, trying to rebuild society from the ashes. More than a century after the bombs fell, you're fighting a losing battle to keep your beloved Arizona alive. Then the self-proclaimed Patriarch of Colorado radios, promising aid if you'll do a job he can only entrust to an outsider—rescue his land from the ambitions of his three bloodthirsty children.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Wasteland 3
In Wasteland 3 you take command of a squad of Desert Rangers, lawmen and women in a post-nuclear world, trying to rebuild society from the ashes. More than a century after the bombs fell, you’re fighting a losing battle to keep your beloved Arizona alive. Then the self-proclaimed Patriarch of...
www.metacritic.com
Wasteland 3 for PS4, PC, XB1, XBXS, PS5 Reviews
Wasteland 3 is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 108 critics, with an overall average score of 86. It's ranked in the top 6% of games and recommended by 96% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Spiritfarer:
A cozy management game about dying. What will you leave behind? Play as Stella, ferrymaster to the deceased, a Spiritfarer. Build a boat to explore the world, then befriend and care for spirits before finally releasing them into the afterlife. A unique, endlessly varied adventure! Farm, mine, fish, harvest, cook, and craft your way across mystical seas. Unwind for hours into cozy and relaxing gameplay. Join the adventure as Daffodil the cat, in two-player cooperative play. Learn how to say goodbye. Experience moving, emotional stories filled with unforgettable moments. Spend relaxing quality time with your spirit passengers, create lasting memories, and, ultimately, learn how to say goodbye to your cherished friends. What will you leave behind?
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Spiritfarer
A cozy management game about dying. What will you leave behind? Play as Stella, ferrymaster to the deceased, a Spiritfarer. Build a boat to explore the world, then befriend and care for spirits before finally releasing them into the afterlife. A unique, endlessly varied adventure! Farm...
www.metacritic.com
Spiritfarer for Switch, PS4, PC, XB1, XBXS, PS5 Reviews
Spiritfarer is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 61 critics, with an overall average score of 87. It's ranked in the top 5% of games and recommended by 90% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Marvel's Spiderman: Miles Morales:
The latest adventure in the Spider-Man universe will build on and expand 'Marvel's Spider-Man' through an all-new story. Players will experience the rise of Miles Morales as he masters new powers to become his own Spider-Man.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
The latest adventure in the Spider-Man universe builds on and expand Marvel’s Spider-Man through an all-new story. Players experience the rise of Miles Morales as he masters new powers to become his own Spider-Man. With PS5’s SSD, players can near-instantaneously fast-travel across Marvel’s New...
www.metacritic.com
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales for PS5, PS4 Reviews
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 139 critics, with an overall average score of 85. It's ranked in the top 6% of games and recommended by 94% of...
opencritic.com
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon:
RISE LIKE A DRAGON. Become Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza grunt left on the brink of death by the man he trusted most. Take up your legendary bat and get ready to crack some underworld skulls in dynamic RPG combat set against the backdrop of modern-day Japan.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
RISE LIKE A DRAGON. Become Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza grunt left on the brink of death by the man he trusted most. Take up your legendary bat and get ready to crack some underworld skulls in dynamic RPG combat set against the backdrop of modern-day Japan.
www.metacritic.com
Yakuza: Like a Dragon Reviews
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 154 critics, with an overall average score of 86. It's ranked in the top 5% of games and recommended by 91% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Genshin Impact:
Welcome to the beautiful fantasy world of Teyvat. Step into a huge open-world of adventure and mystery, where heroic quests await. As a traveller from another world, you must find your lost sibling and unravel Teyvat's many secrets. Joined by Paimon, a kind-hearted sprite guide, your mission takes you through beautiful forests, bustling towns, and treacherous dungeons. And while your journey may put you into the path of merciless foes and fiendish puzzles you can count on numerous playable allies to join your custom party of four, harnessing the power of the elements to overcome all obstacles.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Genshin Impact
Welcome to the beautiful fantasy world of Teyvat Step into a huge open-world of adventure and mystery, where heroic quests await. As a traveller from another world, you must find your lost sibling and unravel Teyvat's many secrets. Joined by Paimon, a kind-hearted sprite guide, your mission...
www.metacritic.com
Genshin Impact for PS4, PC, Switch, PS5 Reviews
Genshin Impact is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 32 critics, with an overall average score of 80. It's ranked in the top 19% of games and recommended by 88% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Crash Bandicoot 4:
it's about time: The devious villains Neo Cortex and Dr. N. Tropy have finally escaped their interdimensional prison, leaving an evil scientist sized hole in the universe. Now they've got their eyes set on not only simply conquering this dimension, but ALL dimensions, and it's up to Crash and Coco to save the day.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
The devious villains Neo Cortex and Dr. N. Tropy have finally escaped their interdimensional prison, leaving an evil scientist sized hole in the universe. Now they’ve got their eyes set on not only simply conquering this dimension, but ALL dimensions, and it’s up to Crash and Coco to save the...
www.metacritic.com
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time Reviews
Crash Bandicoot 4 is a perfect revitalization of the franchise, building on its series' strong foundation and adding both challenge and modern flair.
opencritic.com
- Assassin's Creed: Valhalla:
Build your own Viking Legend. Become Eivor, a Viking raider raised to be a fearless warrior, and lead your clan from icy desolation in Norway to a new home amid the lush farmlands of ninth-century England. Find your settlement and conquer this hostile land by any means to earn a place in Valhalla. England in the age of the Vikings is a fractured nation of petty lords and warring kingdoms. Beneath the chaos lies a rich and untamed land waiting for a new conqueror. Will it be you?
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Build your own Viking Legend. Become Eivor, a Viking raider raised to be a fearless warrior, and lead your clan from icy desolation in Norway to a new home amid the lush farmlands of ninth-century England. Find your settlement and conquer this hostile land by any means to earn a place in...
www.metacritic.com
Assassin's Creed Valhalla Reviews
Assassin's Creed Valhalla takes the modern open-world formula established by Origins and Odyssey and successfully streamlines and builds upon it, delivering an intriguing, fun, and occasionally...
opencritic.com
- Resident Evil 3:
Fight your way to freedom from the brink of despair. A series of strange disappearances have been occurring in the American Midwest within a place called Racoon City. A specialist squad of the police force known as S.T.A.R.S. has been investigating the case, and have determined that the pharmaceutical company Umbrella and their biological weapon, the T-Virus, are behind the incidents though they've lost several members in the process. Jill Valentine and the other surviving S.T.A.R.S. members try to make this truth known, but find that the police department itself is under Umbrella's sway and their reports are rejected out of hand.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Resident Evil 3
Fight your way to freedom from the brink of despair. A series of strange disappearances have been occurring in the American Midwest within a place called Racoon City. A specialist squad of the police force known as S.T.A.R.S. has been investigating the case, and have determined that the...
www.metacritic.com
Resident Evil 3 for PS4, PC, XB1, XBXS, PS5 Reviews
Resident Evil 3 is a faithful and strong remake that's sure to make Resident Evil fans happy, even though some critics felt like it could have been more.
opencritic.com
- Ghost of Tsushima:
The year is 1274. Samurai warriors are the legendary defenders of Japan -- until the fearsome Mongol Empire invades the island of Tsushima, wreaking havoc and conquering the local population. As one of the last surviving samurai, you rise from the ashes to fight back. But, honorable tactics won't lead you to victory. You must move beyond your samurai traditions to forge a new way of fighting -- the way of the Ghost -- as you wage an unconventional war for the freedom of Japan
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Ghost of Tsushima
The year is 1274. Samurai warriors are the legendary defenders of Japan -- until the fearsome Mongol Empire invades the island of Tsushima, wreaking havoc and conquering the local population. As one of the last surviving samurai, you rise from the ashes to fight back. But, honorable tactics...
www.metacritic.com
Ghost of Tsushima Reviews
Ghost of Tsushima is one of the best samurai games ever made, and a great way to close out the PS4's incredible run of exclusive titles. It has its flaws, but most critics had a great time...
opencritic.com
- Gears Tactics:
Gears Tactics is the fast-paced, turn-based strategy game from one of the most-acclaimed video game franchises – Gears of War. Outnumbered and fighting for survival, recruit and command your squad to hunt down an evil mastermind who makes monsters.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics is the fast-paced, turn-based strategy game from one of the most-acclaimed video game franchises – Gears of War. Outnumbered and fighting for survival, recruit and command your squad to hunt down an evil mastermind who makes monsters.
www.metacritic.com
Gears Tactics for PC, XB1, XBXS Reviews
While comparisons to XCOM are inevitable, Gears Tactics successfully spins off the shooter series with a must-play game for turn-based strategy fans.
opencritic.com
- Sackboy: a big adventure:
Perilous platforming experience - Explore here, there and everywhere as you utilize sackboy's cool, diverse move-set to face a huge variety of thrilling challenges, fierce enemies and startling surprises. Re-stuffed. Re-stitched. Re-zipped - sack boy returns to the big time stuffed with fresh moves and game-changing gadgets in an awe-inspiring and downright fun 3D adventure in this new, but familiar world
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
Iconic PlayStation hero Sackboy returns in an all-new 3D adventure with a deeply immersive and expressive control scheme. Players can go on this epic platforming journey solo-style, or they can team up with friends for collaborative, chaotic multiplayer fun.
www.metacritic.com
Sackboy: A Big Adventure for PS4, PS5 Reviews
Sackboy: A Big Adventure is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 83 critics, with an overall average score of 81. It's ranked in the top 19% of games and recommended by 85% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Dirt 5:
Take a trip around the world to and race on over 70+ unique routes across 10 different global locations in stunning environments complete with dynamic weather and time of day. Get behind the wheel of an eclectic and exciting roster of cars. World-renowned voice talents troy baker and nolan north head up the cast of dirt 5's story-driven Career mode. Local split-screen of up to four players on offline modes, including Career, makes dirt 5 the perfect couch multiplayer racing game as you battle for position with your friends. Capture your biggest jumps and best moves with a detailed photo mode, and show your creative flair with dirt's deepest ever livery editor for all cars.
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
DiRT 5
Let Loose in DIRT 5 - the boldest off-road racing experience ever, with a star-studded Career, four-player split-screen, innovative online modes, livery editor and more. Blaze a trail on global tracks, covering gravel, ice, snow and sand, with cars ranging from rally icons, to trucks, to GT heroes.
www.metacritic.com
DiRT 5 for PC, PS4, XB1, XBXS, PS5 Reviews
DiRT 5 is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 110 critics, with an overall average score of 81. It's ranked in the top 17% of games and recommended by 89% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Valorant:
A 5v5 character-based tactical shooter. Imagine this: tactical shooter meets hypernatural powers. Everyone's got guns and a unique set of abilities, so how do you beat someone with the speed of wind? Use your own moves to outplay them and beat them to the shot. VALORANT is a game for bold strategists who dare to make the unexpected play, because if it wins, it works
www.metacritic.com
opencritic.com
Valorant
A 5v5 character-based tactical shooter. Imagine this: tactical shooter meets hypernatural powers. Everyone’s got guns and a unique set of abilities, so how do you beat someone with the speed of wind? Use your own moves to outplay them and beat them to the shot. VALORANT is a game for bold...
www.metacritic.com
Valorant for PC Reviews
Valorant is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 44 critics, with an overall average score of 81. It's ranked in the top 19% of games and recommended by 86% of critics.
opencritic.com
- Fall Guys:
Fall Guys is a massively multiplayer party game with up to 60 players online in a free-for-all struggle through round after round of escalating chaos until one victor remains.
opencritic.com
www.metacritic.com
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout Reviews
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 107 critics, with an overall average score of 80. It's ranked in the top 17% of games and recommended by 91% of critics.
opencritic.com
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout for PC game reviews & Metacritic score: Fall Guys is a massively multiplayer party game with up to 60 players online in a free-for-all struggle through round after round of escalating chaos until one...
www.metacritic.com
- Spelunky 2:
Spelunky 2 builds upon the unique, randomized challenges that made the original a roguelike classic, offering a huge adventure designed to satisfy players old and new. Meet the next generation of explorers as they find themselves on the Moon, searching for treasure and missing family.
opencritic.com
www.metacritic.com
Spelunky 2 Reviews
Spelunky 2 is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 67 critics, with an overall average score of 88. It's ranked in the top 2% of games and recommended by 95% of critics.
opencritic.com
Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 for PC game reviews & Metacritic score: Spelunky 2 builds upon the unique, randomized challenges that made the original a roguelike classic, offering a huge adventure designed to satisfy players old a...
www.metacritic.com
Other mentions:
Crusader Kings III
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2
F1 2020
Tetris Effect: Connected
Black Mesa
Football Manager 2021
Nioh 2
Streets of Rage 4
Astro's Playroom
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
I might be forgeting some great titles, so that gives you an idea of the hugh amount of videogame releases that we have had this year. I have also tried to represent different styles and genres.
Now, let's go with what 1998 offered us (this time I'm not providing links of synopsis since they are already well known games):
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Tekken 3 (home consoles)
Half-Life
Gran Turismo
Metal Gear Solid
Pokemon Red & Pokemon Blue
Grim Fandango
Banjo-Kazooie
Thief: The Dark Project
Baldur's Gate
Unreal
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
Resident Evil 2
Starcraft
Tenchu: Stealth Assassins
Fallout 2
Turok 2: Seeds of Evil
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six
F-Zero X
Star Wars: Rogue Squadron
Xenogears
WipeOut 64
Final Fantasy Tactics
Parasite Eve
Tomb Raider III
For me this is a difficult take. There is no discussion that many of those 1998 games are among the greatest of all time, and not only that, but also they just defined videogame history in general. So, I'm still keeping with 1998.
What's Era's take on this one?
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