Baldur’s Gate 3 is nothing short of a masterpiece. The story is incredible, the world gorgeous and immersive, voice-over and writing of the highest quality, an amazing soundtrack, everything comes together in near perfect harmony. It’s not only the best RPG of the year, it’s the RPG of a generation.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a work of art. Its flawless hybrid combat system joins a cast of characters that tells a story rivaling the very best this medium has ever offered.

Much like what Arkham Asylum did for Batman games, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order sets the new standard for Star Wars titles. Not only is it a great Star Wars game, it is also the best game of the year.

Dark Souls has often been used to measure one's gaming prowess, but that measuring stick has changed with Crimson Desert. Not only does it boast some of the most challenging boss battles ever seen in the industry, its required levels of patience, determination, and ability have set a new gold standard.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder once again proves that Mario is the king of the platforming genre. Much like his previous adventures did before, the amount of creativity and polish on display sets a new industry standard.

Roguebook has everything it needs to set the genre on fire. A gorgeous visual feast, combat as deep and challenging as any CCG, rewarding roguelike mechanics - it has it all. If you're a fan of the genre, this one is quickly setting up to be a GOTY contender.

Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 has quickly become one of my favorite open-world RPGs of all time. Warhorse sits atop RPG Mount Rushmore with the best this industry has to offer.

Forza Horizon 4 absolutely nails the driving experience with its tight handling and dynamic seasons, and is as close as you can get to a perfect racing game.

DOOM: The Dark Ages is the most badass DOOM has ever been. A killer soundtrack, first-person melee combat better than it has any right to be, and the most intriguing version of The Doom Slayer we've ever seen.

Bloober Team has long established itself as a purveyor of innovative and frightening horror experiences, but it will be tough to outdo this one. The Medium is a terrifying and disturbing look into the darkest recesses of human behavior, wrapped in an immersive, atmospheric, and beautiful looking game world.

Monster Hunter Wilds is the natural evolution of Monster Hunter World, and is an early front-runner for Game of the Year. Fans and newbies alike will find a lot to like in Wilds.

BALL X PIT is one of the most satisfying and engaging games we've played all year. No matter what type of gamer you are, BALL X PIT is a must-play.

Despite its brilliance, Lost Ark’s ARPG nature won’t be for everyone. However, if you’ve been yearning for a new free-to-play experience to explore, you won’t get much better than this. The combat is exciting, the progression is quick and accessible, everything about Lost Ark screams a level of quality we’ve not seen in an MMO for many years. Lost Ark is the best free-to-play game to launch in the last 10 years, and I cannot wait to dive in at full release.

To keep it simple, Two Point Campus delivers. It’s everything fans of Two Point Studios’ works would expect. An expertly crafted management simulation experience with the perfect amount of humor, wonderfully designed characters, and charming graphics, it is a game full of heart from start to finish.

Assassin's Creed Valhalla is the best tale the franchise has ever told, featuring the most varied and rewarding gameplay the series has seen in years. Valhalla will forever dine in Odin's Hall as one of the greatest RPGs of this generation.

Dragon's Dogma 2 feels like the first proper RPG I've played in years. Its world is captivating, filled with stories both told and waiting to be found. This is a must-play for RPG fans who've grown tired of the hand-holding nature of modern games and just want to get lost somewhere magical and quite frankly, brutal as hell.

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is a tale of redemption in its purest form. No rubbish, no corpo spin, dedication, passion, and determination to deliver on promises made long ago. The team at CD Projekt Red may have taken a rough road to get here, but now they can rest easy. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is finally, the game we all hoped it would be.

Two Point Studios just doesn't miss - Two Point Museum is another funny, deep, and incredibly creative dive into the simulation genre that's sure to be another hit.

While no one wants to call Game of the Year in March, Elden Ring stands at the top of a very tall hill. If you play one game this year, make it Elden Ring.

I can't believe I'm saying this in the same year we've had Expedition 33, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and The Alters, but ARC Raiders is a real contender for Game of the Year.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a flarkin fantastic game; it's easily the best game of the year so far. My only disappointment? We need more Lipless.

Mortal Kombat 1 delivers one of the most impressive and exciting storylines I've ever experienced in this genre. The voice acting, the facial animations, everything comes together in near-perfect harmony. Fighting is fun, challenging, and rewarding every step of the way. Mortal Kombat 1 is brutally brilliant, and probably the best Mortal Kombat game I've ever played.

Simply put, Starfield is Bethesda’s greatest-ever RPG. The living, breathing universe they have created is one of the most impressive in the gaming space and the sound effects and musical score push the immersion to near perfection. If only I didn’t have to speak to the back of NPCs head.

Massive Entertainment created breathtaking environments across the galaxy, delivered a fast-paced combat system true to the scoundrel style, and crafted a story that rivals the modern movies. Star Wars Outlaws is, simply put, the Star Wars game of a generation.

Marvel's Midnight Suns is, without question, my Game of the Year and has quickly become one of my favorite games of all time.

The Alters will leave you with pondering thoughts long after the credits roll. It’s a brave and daring take on the survival genre and one that will keep you coming back, hoping to answer just one more 'what if.'

Street Fighter 6 is the complete package, with decades of refinement proudly on display. Whether you’re flying solo or hitting the streets with others, this is the definitive Street Fighter experience.

The Outer Worlds 2 is Obsidian Entertainment's best work to date - a perfect RPG for those seeking an old-school approach, one with more substance than expanse.

Split Fiction is truly a blast to play and is one of the only games this year that I recommend to everyone. Needless to say, 2025's Game of the Year discussion just got even more complicated with Split Fiction.

Gotham Knights is up there with Elden Ring as a Game of the Year contender. Its fast, responsive, and action-packed combat is surpassed only by a narrative that had me glued from the very first cutscene. A must-play for fans of open-world titles, and an easy pickup for anyone invested with the Gotham Knights or DC Universe.

For The King 2 is the perfect sequel. It takes the very best components of its predecessor and uses those time-tested elements to raise the series to new heights. To put it simply, For The King 2 is one of the best strategy-based co-op experiences on the market today.

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction is one of the most intense and exciting co-op experiences available today. It's an incredible addition to the Siege universe and one that stands alone as a fantastic demonstration of innovation in an otherwise stagnating genre.

Whether one is a fan of medieval mysteries or just looking for more Henry exploits, Mysteria Ecclesiae and its secrets of the church provide another great adventure.

Shadow of the Erdtree is the perfect Swan Song to Elden Ring. It gives you all the challenge, the loot, and the lore of the base game in a smaller chunk. Prepare to lose yourself to its siren call yet again.

Arcade legends who cut their teeth on run-and-gun greats shouldn’t hesitate to join the Family for Neon Inferno’s new-school, old-school thrills.

Moonlighter is an exciting action adventure-shop simulator game that shouldn’t be skipped. If you have any interest in running a shop and dungeon diving, then this game is for you.

A stellar example of storytelling in the video game space. What initially seems like a futuristic science-fiction story quickly steers into a very real struggle of freedom vs. oppression which has been endured throughout history. With just one single playthrough, Detroit: Become Human will warm your heart, provoke your thoughts, and light a fire in your stomach.

I find myself thinking this about a lot of games this year, but in a weaker year Remnant 2 could be a GOTY contender. Don’t hesitate to check it out if you like these types of games.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is one of the best Like a Dragon spin-offs to date, and we are eagerly looking forward to Majima's next adventure.

Featuring deep swing mechanics and incredibly detailed courses, EA Sports PGA Tour sets a new gold standard for golf games. The title is every bit as deep as one wants it to be, with RPG elements that encourage replayability and self-improvement.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is the definitive Virtua Fighter experience, packing serious depth just waiting to be mastered. Fans of SEGA’s time-honored fighting series, rejoice; Virtua Fighter is back.

Batman: Arkham Shadow pays homage to the Arkham games as if solely developed by Rocksteady itself. Incredible combat, a fantastic cast of characters, and the opportunity to feel downright unstoppable make Batman: Arkham Shadow a game worthy of a Meta Quest 3 pick-up.

It’s been a long time coming, but Diablo 4 is the game fans deserve. Put simply, Diablo 4 will easily be many people’s Game of the Year.

Pack your bags for South Town - KOF is back. The deep and stylish gameplay that put the series on the map is back and better than ever, and the inclusion of rollback netcode ensures this dream match never ends.

For the most part, Death's Door hits it out of the park and is easily a contender for indie GOTY. Fans of top-down action RPGs shouldn't hesitate to pick this one up.

Children of Morta is the best roguelike I've played in 2019. A strong story, exciting combat, and great characters make it a must-play for any roguelike fan.

Resident Evil Village shines brightly as one of this year’s early Game of the Year contenders. Whether you’re a fan of the series or a survival horror fan in general, be sure to pick it up.

Years of Funcom’s expertise managing Conan: Exiles have paved the way for Dune: Awakening to be one of the most impressive online survival games ever made.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles stands the test of time as one of the best tactics games the genre has ever seen. Its voiced content adds a modern layer to an already incredible story, and although its combat system hasn't changed much, it's just as good today as it was nearly 30 years ago.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is a classic example of the old mantra: get past the start, and you’ll love it. If you have Xbox Game Pass, you have no reason not to try this game.

Infinity Nikki radiates a charm that warms your heart, engages your mind, and sweeps you off your feet. It’s a refreshing and heartfelt take on the gacha formula, truly promising a little something for everyone.

Wrath of the Druids is near perfect in its execution, a flawless combination of challenge and accessibility that paves the way for a glorious adventure into the darker side of Irish mythology and legend. Everything has been carefully packaged with incredible visuals, worthwhile new endeavors, and a cast of characters just as memorable as the original game.

Like a Dragon: Ishin! is the most fun I’ve had playing a Yakuza game since Yakuza 0. Any fan of the series or fans of samurai games, in general, should check it out.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a fantastic entry in the series, and has quickly become one of my favorite RPGs of the modern era.

Ghost of Tsushima is the best Sucker Punch game to date. Anyone who is a fan of the developer, or samurai games in general, should not hesitate to pick this one up.

Ghostwire: Tokyo is set up to be one of the most unique and interesting titles of the year, and it doesn't disappoint. Darken the room, turn the volume up loud, and keep out any distractions; Ghostwire: Tokyo is one hell of a spooky ride.

This entry proves yet again that letting Respawn handle the Star Wars IP is the right call. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a Game of the Year contender in a very stacked year.

Platinum delivers another winner with Astral Chain. Fans of fast-paced action games shouldn’t hesitate to pick this one up.

Resident Evil 2 sets a new standard for game remakes. Series veterans and newcomers alike will find a meaty adventure they can sink their teeth into with this title.

King's Bounty 2 is everything turn-based fans have been screaming out for. The traditional RPG elements are executed to near perfection. The combat is challenging and engaging from start to finish. The story is dark, heartwarming, and impactful. Put simply, this game has everything.

Unicorn Overlord might be an early GOTY contender for me. Fans of strategy games should download the demo and play it immediately.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a game of passion, made from the heart. Featuring charming characters, a vibrant world filled with mystery and intrigue, and genre-leading platforming action, you will struggle to find a single experience that encompasses the artistic values of video games like Ori and the Will of the Wisps.

TEKKEN 8 hits hard with what could quite possibly be the best TEKKEN entry to date. Fresher than newcomer Azucena’s signature coffee blend, this title does everything in its power to make this King of Iron Fist tournament worthy of all players.

Despite Mouthwashing’s unsettling atmosphere, this immersive tale will make you want to take responsibility for the Tulpar – just make sure to approach with a fresh, open mind.

Ultimately, WWE 2K24 is the single best wrestling game on the market today, and the best one in decades. Building on the already solid foundations of WWE 2K23, the in-ring action is smooth and rewarding, the flurry of game modes offers a little something for everyone, and the Wrestlemania Showcase retells some of WWE’s most iconic stories in new and exciting ways.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth marks the very best in class across practically every element of game design for the Final Fantasy franchise, but I still couldn't help but feel I was bidding farewell to an old friend.

Dragon Quest XI proves that a traditional turn-based RPG in 2018 can not only work, but also thrive. Longtime fans and newcomers alike should not hesitate to take the trip to the Elusive Age.

Doom Eternal is completely badass. The soundtrack, the level design, the combat – it all comes together to create a package of adrenaline-fueled rage and destruction. Put simply, it’s the best first-person shooter of this generation.

While I still think Forza Horizon is the better series, there is no denying Forza Motorsport has the best driving around. Racing fans should pick up Game Pass and give it a go.

Not only is Nioh 3 the best entry in the series, it's also the most accessible entry as well. Whether you're a fan of Soulslikes, previous Nioh entries, or just good samurai action, don't hesitate to check this one out.

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an absolutely thrilling game, providing a hefty amount of challenge and the tools needed to grow and overcome any threats. Take up this call from Handler Walter - he’s got a new job for you.

Music to our ears, Lumines Arise is a stellar puzzle game that provides the ultimate timeline cleanse.

While I still think the Resident Evil 2 Remake is the king, Resident Evil 4 Remake is still a fantastic game. Fans of Resident Evil or survival horror, in general, should check it out.

Following up a series as renowned as Streets of Rage with a new entry is no small feat, but Streets of Rage 4 hits hard with its signature frantic action and stylish audiovisual presentation.

With its unique blend of strategy, survival, and city building, Frostpunk 2 stands as one of the best titles of 2024.

Control is a treasure trove of storytelling that is supported by great dialogue, intriguing characters, and stellar voice acting. When paired with its badass combat, it proves to be the complete package.

The Outer Worlds has quickly cemented its place as one of the best RPGs of the current generation. Excellent combat, exploration that never gets stale, characters that never grow old, stories and events that hide endless secrets...The Outer Worlds is simply fantastic.

Date Everything!’s romance packs heart, with its stellar voice work and sheer wit stealing the show. Grab your Dateviators - there’s a world just waiting to be swooned.

Observer: System Redux combines a psychological thriller narrative with psychedelic visuals, terrifying chase scenes, and next-generation graphics to provide one of the most impressive remaster packages I’ve played in ages.

Fairy Tail is a return to form for the classic turn-based RPG combat of yesteryear. A huge cast of memorable characters, tons of side content, and incredible combat all come together to form one of this year's most impressive JRPGs.

The Plucky Squire oozes creativity and charm on every page. It stands aside Balatro and Animal Well as one of the best indie games of the year.

Everybody's Golf: Hot Shots is the definitive arcade golf game, with countless golfers, caddies, courses, and modes just waiting to be explored.

The Surge 2 combines a rewarding combat system with a fantastic game world to craft one of the best games of 2019. Fans of Soulsborne games shouldn’t hesitate to check this one out.

Those willing to truly master The First Berserker: Khazan will be treated to a world that is equal parts brutal and rewarding.

Surprising absolutely no one, Red Dead Redemption 2 is easily a game of the year contender, if not the winner. Rockstar Games knocks it out of the park once again.

If you are a Zelda fan, then Cadence of Hyrule should be a no-brainer. For anyone who likes great music, fun gameplay, and action RPGs, this one is for you.

Parking Garage Rally Circuit channels raw thrills to create something truly magnificent. For those always on the hunt for the perfect line, Parking Garage Rally Circuit’s speed, challenge, and aesthetics help this arcade racer fly sky-high.

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics manages to make a name for itself with an impeccable way to play as Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and World Warriors.

Blue Prince’s mysterious manor is just begging to be explored, providing a puzzling experience unlike anything else in the gaming space.

Dead Cells sets an example for the rest of the industry as far as Metroidvanias are concerned. If Dead Cells sounds even remotely interesting to you, pick it up and give it a go.

You'll struggle to find a more immersive and rewarding setting in which to forge your own odyssey. Assassin's Creed Odyssey is the complete package.

Though I entered a skeptic of Apex Legends, my experience with the title has made me believe that it the best battle royale game currently on the market.

Sea of Stars sets itself apart with its unique look, relaxing vibes, engaging gameplay. Not only is it a great indie RPG, but it also currently sits at the top of my indie GOTY list.

Whether you’re a hardcore spidey fan or just like to dabble in spandex, Marvel’s Spider-Man is, in a word, amazing.

Packing tricks and treats in equal measure, Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo will no doubt be the talk around New Jolt City with its new school old school cool.

Fans of the original Dragon Quest III will feel right at home with this stellar HD-2D Remake. Rise, fellow heroes, and slay the great Archfiend.

Proof positive that love conquers all, Mission: It’s Complicated saves the day with its original premise, sharp writing, and long-lasting replayability.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has got that dog (or is it wolf?) in it, bringing depth, originality, and countless ways to throw down in South Town.