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2022 was a monumental leap forward for video games. Even with the constraints of COVID-based development, developers really got together and put forth some fine efforts, with some recognizable and unlikely heroes leading the pack. But out of all the releases, only a handful can be called the best. So…where do we get started? Let’s count down the top 15 games of 2022!
15. Marvel Snap
Whereas Diablo Immortal was a nightmare of transactions, Marvel Snap actually got the mobile gaming experience right this year. With an array of awesome characters, fun gameplay and lots of rewards, it’s the sort of game that keeps those comic book pages a-turnin’. More please.
14. Vampire Survivors
Vampire Survivors is so simply put together. And yet, there’s something about its “kill or be killed” gameplay that keeps us hooked for hours on end. What is it?! Why are we still playing? Wait, can three more characters be unlocked?! Be right back.
13. Neon White
A wild and crazy first-person experience unlike any other, Neon White is a sheer indie darling that puts you in an imaginative world and keeps you enticed for hours on end. We’d love to see more chapters come from this adventurous realm.
12. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
An incredibly loaded Lego game – in fact, probably the biggest to date. But Travelers Tales delivers with the best gameplay we’ve seen from a title such as this, along with mesmerizing visuals and a ton to unlock. Strong, this Force is.
11. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
In just a few short years’ time, Monolith Soft has crafted an immaculate series that has yet to be matched when it comes to full-fledged adventure. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 continues the saga well, with rich visuals, stunning gameplay and a whole lot to offer.
10. Horizon Forbidden West
Guerrilla Games put a lot of time and effort into this sequel, and it shows. Aloy’s quest feels much more natural this time around; and takes advantage of the PS5 hardware (for those who have it) to make it look nothing short of amazing. Can’t wait for 2023’s DLC.
9. Immortality
That’s right, an FMV game on our top games list for 2022. But this is no mere Night Trap wannabe, but a deep, enriched mystery, filled with all sorts of treasures to unearth and surprises in store. Its quality can’t be beat, either. More like this, please.
8. Bayonetta 3
Announced five (!) years ago, Bayonetta 3 finally arrived this past October and didn’t disappoint. The epic action returns, and better than ever, with all sorts of gameplay twists. And, of course, that bewitching presentation always wins us over. Also, Jennifer Hale rocks. We said it.
7. Tunic
Another indie darling that we refused to ignore, Tunic is a thrilling adventure that definitely follows in the spirit of the best Zelda games. The visuals are something else, and the gameplay really does nail down the basics. This one plays out quite wonderfully in our hands.
6. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
How many games give you the opportunity to travel across a decaying world in the form of a fridge that lets you spit out soda cans at enemies? Kirby and the Forgotten Land shows that HAL Laboratories still knows how to churn out fresh entities with its long-time heroes. What a game.
5. Stray
Some of us aren’t cat people, but Stray kind of makes us wonder why. It’s got an interesting hero that acts just like the real deal, put into a world loaded with all sorts of dangers and mystery. It’s very well done, and, ahem, the cat’s meow. OK, moving on now.
4. Sifu
Heck yes. Sifu nails down everything you’d expect from a good kung fu movie, but also teaches you patience with immaculate controls. But Sloclap was also wise to load the game with post- release updates that keep things fresh and enjoyable. Plus there’s an arena coming in 2023.
Let’s fight!
3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
2022 was definitely the comeback year for the Ninja Turtles, especially with the Cowabunga Collection on deck. But Shredder’s Revenge is a perfect blend of all things old and new, a beat-em-up with options galore and some really cool unlockables. Not to mention the awesome selection of bosses. Hey, Screwloose is back! Bonus points for the theme song by Faith No
More’s Mike Patton.
2. God of War Ragnarok
Once again, Cory Barlog and his team at Sony Santa Monica put on a show. God of War Ragnarok absolutely aces its storytelling, while also making improvements to the sharp gameplay. Not to mention its presentation is off the charts, with a stellar cast (Christopher Judge! Toby from The West Wing!) and outstanding music. If you aren’t playing this, something’s wrong with you.
1. Elden Ring
Everyone seems to be naming Elden Ring as the best game of the year. But it’s easy to see why. Its unconventional approach to taking on boss battles on your own is something else. However, it’s also incredibly well produced on every level. The music. The visuals. The boss battles. The finale. Not to mention its lore, which stands apart in its own right (that’s George R.R. Martin for you). Even for those that weren’t brave enough to beat it, you have to admit that it shook you to some effect in 2022. That’s just what it does.
Want a shiny new console to get your 2023 started off right? We’re giving one away!
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