We’re halfway through 2017 and the beginning of the year was jam-packed with gaming delights. From the launch of the Switch and a new Zelda to indie darlings and a slew of AAA hits, we’ve been spoilt for choice. Here are the best games of 2017, so far:
Horizon Zero Dawn
The trailer promised us robot dinosaurs and the game delivered that in spades. It also delivered a rich, intriguing world with an engaging lead character who did more than just slot into the hot chick with a bow category. It was part Tomb Raider (the reboot) and part Witcher 3, but Horizon Zero Dawn was also a distinct game world that delivered a polished and fun experience. Shame about the cultural appropriation and let’s make Aloy more interesting next time because I’m almost certain there will be a next time.
Our review.
Zelda: Breath of the Wild
For a few weeks you couldn’t move on Twitter for people gasping in absolute joy at the wonder that is Breath of the Wild. It’s the open world Zelda everyone’s wanted since open world became a thing and we dreamed. This is the Zelda game that even people who don’t like Zelda like. It’s gorgeous, it’s hard and unforgiving, but it’s also endlessly fun and rewarding.
Our review.
Night in the Woods
If Reality Bites was a film it would be Night in the Woods – the indie hit of 2017. The beautiful, paper cut style aesthetic sets the game apart and made the anthropomorphic lead characters instant icons. Add to that an intriguing story and well-written characters wallowing in the small town ennui of disillusioned youth and you’ve got a stand out game.
What we said on Argue the Toss.
What Remains of Edith Finch
The story of a woman returning to her family home is presented as an anthology of weird tales of loss and mystery. Each story is so distinct from the next that to describe any of them is to spoil some of the most joyful gaming moments I’ve had all year. There’s no game like What Remains of Edith Finch, which is still my unrivalled favourite of the year.
What we said.
Nier: Automata
This is a game that I thought I’d give a go. The anime aesthetic looked pretty enough and the atmosphere of the trailer had me intrigued. Two hours later and there I was with a massive grin on my face, immersed in fluid combat against giant robots while a soaring score swirled around me. This is Platinum Games showing off what they do best with some old school fast-paced combat in a beautiful world. The story is engaging with twists and heartbreak. What more could you want?
What we said.
