Dishonored 2
Dishonored 2 is the best kind of sequel. It smartly builds on what its predecessor achieved without deviating from the core of what made it so beloved by fans and critics alike. The tweaks to gameplay are mostly welcomed, though I fear Arkane’s attempt to make the game harder will push potential newcomers away, having them miss out on one of the better games of the 2016 holiday release schedule.
Having two characters is novel and encourages replayability, since both enjoy a relatively decent personal story through the same sequence of events, however I feel it would have been better had Emily been the new face of the franchise, separate from her father.
After all, her new powers are an evolution of Corvo’s, and playing as her feels both fresh and familiar, whereas he is just too familiar. Still, that doesn’t tarnish what is clearly a well-designed and thoroughly enjoyable game.
(Words by Jayden Williams)
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Uncharted 4 was just the game the PlayStation 4 needed heading into 2016.
The system-seller and big-name franchise has defined the PlayStation name for almost a decade, and Naughty Dog’s latest outing — and Nathan Drake’s (supposed) last — makes for one of the year’s most amazing and memorable experiences.
It’s a landmark title, one of 2016’s jewels. A must-play in every sense of the term, and the reason to own a PS4.
Dark Souls 3
Where do you start with a game like Dark Souls 3? Series diehards boldly proclaim it’s the weakest — and easiest — in the franchise, but there’s no denying that it still exists as one of the year’s toughest and most frustrating games.
It’s the sort of game and experience that dominates headlines and gamer chatter for weeks on end, dictating a special sort of cultural collaboration in an effort to beat down on the game’s devilish obsession with death.
It’s not for everyone — including this author — but there’s simply no denying Dark Souls‘ power over the industry.
Firewatch
Firewatch is a lot of things. Some call it boring. Some call it unrewarding. It may be those things. But it’s also intriguing, ambitious, powerful, immersive, heartfelt and confident.
It’s eerier at just the right times, challenging the player in tense moments of conflict and danger. Its themes of isolation, depression and manhood propel the game through the ranks as one of the bravest in recent years, never afraid to tell a story in a way that questions the player’s choices.
Abzu
Abzu is perhaps this list’s most genuine “adventure” game. This underwater adventure has to surely be the best underwater adventure game you’ve ever played.
Its orchestral soundtrack, superb controls, and stunning visuals help drive players down a linear path of exploration and beauty. One of the year’s most compelling, memorable and straight-up gorgeous games.
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