GOTY 2011 Puzzle

If recent history has taught us anything it’s that the simplest concept always makes for the best puzzle game, and if you disagree with that principle then Alexey Pajitnov, the creator of Tetris, - arguably the biggest selling game of all time - may have a few stern words to the contrary. There may not be the greatest selection in 2011 to choose from, but the handful that we have highlighted each has the necessary traits of being easy to pick up and impossible to put down that set them apart and brings them to the forefront of our minds.

Blossom  (PC, iOS)
It might seem like just another iPhone/iPad game to you, but Blossom is a fun puzzle game that can potentially eat up some of your time. The objective is to connect the tiles together to create a waterway network that reaches the flowers below. It’s a simple game to play, and it’s addicting as well.

Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective  (DS, iOS)
There’s a unique feel to the its puzzle mechanics that makes it fun and intriguing, but it’s Ghost Trick’s story and charming cast of characters that definitely steal the show. Every puzzle sequence gave us the motivation to finish each one because we wanted to see how the story progressed. Ghost Trick has got heart, and coming from the creator of the Ace Attorney series, we’re not surprised.

Hector: Badge of Carnage  (PC, Mac, iOS)
Hector: Badge of Carnage makes this list because it turned out to be a more competent point-and-click puzzle adventure game than expected. But that description’s probably selling this episodic series short. Don’t let the nasty sex jokes and crude sarcasm get to you; Hector is more than meets the eye.

Kirby Mass Attack  (DS)
The game diverges from its predecessors by focusing more on puzzle strategy than just another platformer for people to gawk at. Players utilize the stylus and touch screen by controlling up to 10 Kirby’s at once, and order them to attack enemies to overcome certain obstacles to progress. Oh, and did we say, cute? Mass Attack is riddled with so much overwhelming charm that could make the coldest heart melt.

Portal 2 (PS3, 360, PC, Mac)
Portal 2 is not just a well-made sequel to the original; it’s a fantastic adventure that takes you on an expanded return trip to the crazy world of Aperture Science. The puzzles are more challenging and mind-boggling than the first, and new additions to the formula are proof of that. Valve truly outdid themselves this time.

It’s not hard to understand why Valve’s newest foray would win, even amongst other amazing titles this year.  Portal 2 is not just an ode to fans, but the culmination of story and puzzles combined from the prototype that was the original Portal. This captivating experience slightly increased the challenge step by step and lead players on perfectly, together with a terrific cast of old acquaintances and new surprises alike. The wit and charm oozed out of every pore of this game to keep the mind fresh for its tricky, but ultimately logical puzzles. Not only did it make players think, but it opened up new doors to start thinking with portals. Add to that the same immersive experience, but completely adapted to a lengthy cooperative campaign and you get one of the strongest deliveries this year, period. Portal 2 is a perfected class act all the way.

Best Rhythm / Fitness Game