#10 Super Smash Bros
I think we all knew that the next edition of one of the greatest fighting series of all time was going to be good; I don't think Nintendo are aware of what a bad sequel is, and hopefully that will rekindle some interest in the 'Wii U'. True, not that much has changed, but it's still the classic fighter I've always loved. Fast paced action and perfectly balanced mechanics combine to make one of the most enjoyable experiences you will get out of any game. This time there are no overpowered 'Meta Knight's' for players to abuse, and if anything I would complain that the combat has almost been dumbed down a little from the almost perfect mechanics of 'Brawl'. That's not to say it's completely different, it's still the same gimmicky fast paced fighter that also manages to be one of the most accessible games for first time users.
The big inclusion this time is the introduction of an eight character brawl, which is every bit as hectic as it sounds. Aside from that though and Nintendo have actually removed some large portions of the game, things that I felt were vital to 'Brawl's' success, things like story mode and the emphasis on variety. That isn't to say it fails at all it promised; in fact it's a worthy entry into the franchise. And if you stick to multiplayer then you can't go wrong. That's what this series is all about, and aside from a few lag issues it's as good as it always was. And it's still ever so fun. That to me is the most important thing a game like this can do; and this series just excels at that.
#9 Titanfall
From the makers of 'Call of Duty' came what was probably the most anticipated title of 2014, and whilst it may not have lived up to all the hype it gained, it was still showered with awards by every single reviewer going. That's for a very good reason, as this game is pretty damn awesome. It may not be as awesome as it promised to be, but as an FPS it is one of a kind. Unlike most it never looses the idea of fun with its rapid pace and well balanced mechanics that integrate free running and combat seamlessly. It's an almost perfect match that makes the game feel a lot like 'Call of Duty' on steroids. The only difference from this to COD is that this has huge robots that fire missiles called 'Titans', which are a lot less awesome than they look. They do provide a different challenge to other FPS's, but as a unique selling point they don't really work.
Aside from that it's a familiar concept with an original feel. Especially free running, which is just so well done. It's the main joy that this game gives you, and it's such a treat to be able to just hop between vertical walls. It really does open up the tightly packed maps. Story mode is a little questionable, which is another way of saying it sucks and doesn't work in any way. For some reason that too is also multiplayer and so any sense of plot or context is soon lost by being randomly put into what seems like pointless matches. In short its execution is shockingly bad, even if the idea could be worth another try. Couple this with the lack of content and customisation and you have a game that might tire out quite quickly. I've always found it fun and something different from the crowded FPS genre. Just don't expect too much and it will easily exceed your expectations.
#8 Shovel Knight
Our first indie title, a genre that in my opinion dominated 2013. This year they didn't have it so easy, but that doesn't mean there weren't some standout games. Shovel Knight is one of those games that instantly stood out due to its almost flawless production. To call it an indie title would be almost a travesty as 'indie' is usually a byword for poor quality, a title that this game quickly forgets. The feeling at every stage is that this is a triple-a classic; it's truly a special game that somehow managed to be almost perfectly developed despite being crowdfunded. it's a throwback to the past and you can't help but marvel at that NES palette colour scheme that give it that authentic and retro feel. It pays homage to the games of old and takes everything that makes sidescrollers great and throws them into one. It's platforming heaven and a dream for anyone who loves a retro game with an interesting storyline and a ton of nostalgia.
#7 Endless Legend
In a year when the greatest '4X' series failed, this game was on hand to save the genre. 'Civilization: Beyond Earth' was a nice idea, but like its predecessor it lacked any depth to match the legendary status of some of its classic entries. For me 'Endless Legend' filled that gap perfectly by doing everything a 'Civilization' game should do, even when 'Civilization' itself can't be bothered. Sure that depth I was talking about still might not be there, but I can't complain about a game that plays better, looks nicer, and is a lot more interesting than its more famous counterpart. All the strategy elements work as they should and real care went into designing this game; it really does look quite beautiful.
It also feels unique. Every fictional faction is much better designed than the realistic ones in 'Civilization'. Here they all have their own separate perks and that contributes to a much more interesting plot than in conventional games in this genre, which is important despite the user controlling their own narrative. My only complaint would be that the AI are a bit sloppy, which is a bit of a letdown in a game like this. And I would also say that the game is far less accessible than its rivals. But once you get the hang of things it's a much more rewarding strategy game than any others released this year.
#6 Dragon Age Inquisition
This was many people's favorite game of the year, and it's easy to see why. I can't actually think of a bad Bioware RPG, and so this was a dead cert to be a pretty awesome game. I don't think its a game of the year contender, but it is a good RPG that always keeps the storyline at the heart of everything it does. This storyline contributes to the rich and immersive environment that provides a beautiful setting for an epic title like this to take place. The player driven story is classic Bioware, and every decision you make will effect the story and the landscape around you. This allows the user to become fully integrated into the complex and well written narrative that is only complimented by the expansive world that never once feels barren.
The other key element, combat, is also executed to a good standard. I have seen better systems from similar games, but as a mechanic its a solid system to base the gameplay around, even if I feel it was substituted for a more story driven game. That gamble might have payed off, as the story elements are expertly produced with complex characters being bought to life with some of the best voice acting I've ever heard. Couple this with some killer audio and special effects and you have a very stylish game that also sounds pretty neat. It's like a fusion of 'Game of Thrones' and 'Mass Effect', and I love it for that.
#5 Alien Isolation
Finally, a worthy game that the 'Alien' franchise so desperately needed. Trust the Brits to produce a game from nothing that finally got 'Alien' it's mojo back. It was such a pleasant surprise as it came from a first attempt by developers 'The Creative Assembly' who are famed for their 'Total War' RTS series, and this game is far from a strategy title. Instead it takes the form of a horror game that plays much more into the path of the 'Alien' franchise instead of an FPS, which is where previous titles were failing. This time there are no weapons and so each Xenomorph is a challenge in itself and can't just be killed with a few bullets, meaning you actually have to use cunning to beat the game. Your only tool is a motion tracker that makes the player more visible to the aliens every time you use it, which makes it almost the perfect tool for any horror game, and also makes this game quite challenging.
The rest of the game is also perfectly optimised for a brilliant horror game. The absence of audio causes players to react to ambient noises, and the lack of lighting and claustrophobic setting also make this game one intense ride. it's such a good example of the horror genre and is genuinely thrilling at every available opportunity. This is only aided by the ridiculously clever and unpredictable AI that never seems to put a foot wrong. It's a game that requires a deft touch, and this only emphasizes the role of the aliens as villains. They are now an intimidating foe which much better suites their portrayal in the iconic series of films, and means that finally the 'Alien' franchise gets a game it can be proud of.
#4 Sunset Overdrive
This is about as much fun as you can have in a game this year. It was a huge exclusive for Microsoft and pushed home their advantage over the disappointing offering of games that Sony bought us this year. The game takes its form as a fast paced and ridiculous RPG that revolves around cartoon zombies. That sets up some ludicrous content and some hilarious gameplay that is still great fun despite revolving around button mashing. It's made by the same fellows who bought you the much loved 'Ratchet & Clank' series, and that style is evident as soon as you start playing this.
The storyline is also surprisingly good for a game that's premise is just to have a good time. It might be borderline stupid in some sections, but overall it's just a fun version of the apocalypse, if there is such a thing. It's games like this that remind me why I hate conventional zombie games, and although this is a parody of them if anything, it still manages to steer clear of any cliches that litter any other zombie game. The multiplayer is a bit of a miss as it's a little shallow, but for a unique experience the single player is a must. It's got a fuck load of content, endless customisation, a detailed and expansive environment, and most of all it's a great laugh. An excellent and unique title only made better by the next generation of consoles.
#3 Banished
Now it's time for my PC exclusive and slightly unconventional choice. But when you look at it it's the best placed indie and PC game for being almost the perfect strategy game. That isn't usually something you hear with city builders, and especially of those released in recent years, but this is nothing like any conventional city builder. This is a punishing and brutal strategy game that disguises itself as a quaint little village designer. It's unlike any other city builder in that expanding is actually a dangerous thing to do. It's a strategy almost discouraged as a large population leads to lack of resources or rampant levels of disease that will destroy your village at an alarming rate. It's such a strategic game that it has to run at a monumentally slow pace to allow the game to tactically destroy your village right in front of you whilst you watch. You can see it coming, but just can't do anything about it.
The game runs on so many perfectly executed mechanics that all intertwine to create a strategy experience like no other; either that or it's the most elaborate survival game I've ever played. I can't remember playing a game where the strategic mechanics are all flawless and all work seamlessly together to dictate how the game ruins you this time. It never pretends to be anything flashy; it knows its purpose and it demands respect even from the most experienced of players. A cold and calculated mind is needed to conquer what may be the ultimate strategy game of all time, and although that may not result in you having fun, it certainly results in an epic and memorable gaming experience. It's just another example of how if you just get the basics right you can develop any game into something truly special.
#2 Mario Kart 8
Well it was always going to be good wasn't it. The fact that it's now been good for the past eight occasions is an achievement that the lads at Nintendo can be proud of, and this is one of their better entries. I wouldn't say it was straying into any new territory, in fact if anything it's more of the signature kart racer we've grown to love. But what we do have is a racer that everybody can still enjoy; it's great fun no matter how many times you play it, and it doesn't even matter if you're a bit shit. A quick blue shell or bullet bill will take care of that for you. Maybe the logical move was to keep this game as original as possible. If it isn't broken why fix it?
There are some changes, this entry adds some new shiny visuals and also includes new anti gravity racing, that although doesn't sound too major actually changes the whole complexion of many courses. It might not be a huge leap in the genre but it's an exciting and fun addition, and does at least contribute to some pretty awesome tracks. Of course the rest of the game runs without a hitch like you would expect. It feels so great to play and it's accessible to the whole family. This might be the reason why you would buy a Wii U, and I can't think of a better game to have fun with in my spare time. It's just such a brilliant way to be a dick to people whilst still having a good time.
#1 Far Cry 4
I personally thought that 2014 was a year when many good games were released, however this is the only one I played that I felt was the complete package. It ticks all the boxes that I use to classify a great RPG. The storyline is excellent and gripping. It looks fantastic and the mechanics are excellent and rarely fail. The gameplay is just sensational and there are a wide array of things to do; things that are relevant to story and contribute to a very interesting and exciting setting. Yes it may be quite similar to Far Cry 3, but why is that an issue? Surely you wouldn't turn down sex with Katy Perry on the second occasion because it would be a bit similar to the first time. Yet somehow those same people aren't complaining when the latest edition of FIFA arrives that has been similar for the last twenty years.
And anyway, I just love the premise behind the series. The exotic location that is now somewhere in The Himalayas is a great landscape to set a game. Its unique fauna and features are a welcome addition to a franchise that always gives us a great map. They're maps are fun to explore and large in scale to perfectly accompany a brilliant storyline, even if that isn't quite as good as it was in number three. Multiplayer also returns, although for some reason you can't do a co-op campaign, which is a small price to pay for a game mode that's actually a lot of fun. Overall this game is a port in a storm for Ubisoft who have had a pretty poor year for games. This proves a reminder that they can still produce quality content and expand on an already great series.
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