5.) Vanquish

 

Vanquish tosses up a big middle finger to all other “cover based shooters” and takes you on an absolutely intense and freaking phenomenal ride…and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

4.)  Darksiders

 

Darksiders manages to take concepts from a hefty list of past games and turn it into something of it’s own.  What many have called a “Dark Zelda” proves to be one of the best games I’ve played this year.  An incredible art style, strong characters and a surprisingly deep and fun combat system makes Darksiders a must play game for fans of the genre.  From beginning to end I loved my time with Darksiders and with an ending that made me jump up and go “HECK YES” I’ll have a very hard time awaiting a sequel.

 

3.)  Sam and Max: The Devil's Playhouse

 

The Devil’s Playhouse is Telltale at their very best period.  Sam and Max are up their with my most beloved characters in all forms of media and with this past season I’m absolutely itching for anything and everything related to my favorite freelance police.

 

2.)  Nier

 

What is probably the most under appreciated game of this year Nier manages to create one of the most gripping storylines in a game that I can remember as well as what may be one of the best soundtracks this year.   While almost everything that Nier does is unconventional and something many developers wouldn’t dare attempt Nier is able to make good on everything it does offering up a truly unforgettable gameplay experience.  It’s not often a game like this comes along and if you can forgive the dated graphics I can assure you Nier is a game you’ll be very happy you gave a chance.

 

1.)  Kirby's Epic Yarn

 

 

To say Kirby’s Epic Yarn is my favorite game of the year would be a massive understatement.  I could go on and on describing all of the little details that I love or how much love clearly went in to making this game but I’ll simply leave you with this.  I don’t think I’ve ever had this much fun playing a game in my entire life than I have with Kirby’s Epic Yarn and it would be a shame if those without a Wii missed out on a truly phenomenal gaming experience.

 

*Honorable Mention*

 

Game Dev Story: After waiting what seemed like ages for the game to hit android it finally did recently and ever since picking it up two nights ago I haven’t been able to put it down.  Game Dev Story is dangerously addictive and one I’ll be playing for many months to come.