Top 10 Games of 2014 According to Me

I eat my words from last year.  2014 ended up being an awesome year for games. Lots of lovely small and large-scale titles that impressed me quite a bit — to the point that I had to make some tough calls. Anyway, let's not waste time. Here's the list.

10.  Transistor (PC & PS4)

Trumping their previous effort (Bastion) in almost every way — Transistor goes on to pave the way with stronger narrative, more stunning art design, and a more complicated (and intuitive) battle system. If you enjoyed Bastion and want something that extends into a more mature narrative-space, this is the one to get. 

9.  Kentucky Route Zero (PC + Mac)

What if David Lynch decided to make a game? That question is the best way that I can sell this one to you. Click the video and if you're not swooning within the first minute, then we're at a major impasse my friends. This is the third stunning chapter of Kentucky Route Zero, which released in 2014, so expect to see the next chapter in my best of for next year. 

8.  Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor (PC)

Take the best gameplay elements of Assassin's Creed and the battle system of the Arkham series and sprinkle brand new lore from the LOTR universe and you're gifted with this gem. I thoroughly loved my time in the world. Note: I'm not an LOTR fan in any way, so that speaks volumes to the quality of this one. It'll lure you in.

7.  Broken Age (PC)

Sure, there's another episode (it's a two parter) to come out in early 2015, but trust me, this is as magical as the original Kickstater by Tim Schafer promised it would be. Everything from the art, dialog, acting, and gameplay are intuitive, charming, and highly magical. You'll be saddened when the "to be continued" comes up, but you're going to get the final chapter for free for buying it, so there's no real loss there. 

6.  Wolf Among Us (PC and Consoles)

My favorite Telltale adventure game yet. Combining the best of their mature storytelling skills with something that mixes both fantasy, grit, and noire elements. A fine adventure game that may or may not get a sequel. Either way, for any fan of adventure games and great characters, this is a must buy — more so than Walking Dead or any other game that Telltale has put out so far.

5. Wolfenstein: The New Order (PC, Mac)

Remember that awesome Riddick game? What about that underrated Darkness game? This is where those folks ended up and it's going to blow your mind. One of the best narrative experiences in a first person shooter (only trumped by Bioshock and Infinite) for me. Uncompromising, quirky, and dark. A single player only experience that knows what you're looking for. 

 4. Bioshock: Burial At Sea (PC and Consoles)

The second episode came out earlier this year and it killed all doubt I had about the first episode. It's gorgeous, it's sad, it answered a ton of questions left hanging about the Bioshock universe. It's a final goodbye from Ken Levine (the creator and writer) to you. If you loved the original Bioshock and Infinite, this is the expansion that puts most of your questions to rest and lets you rest easy (or not so easy) knowing it's all over. 

 3. Dreamfall: Chapter (PC)

A pure labor of love. The first episode of Dreamfall Chapters, which is a sequel to Dreamfall, which is a sequel to The Longest Journey is here. It's beautiful, it's personal, and it's exactly the game I wanted. It's a very introductory chapter that sets the tone for the world and introduces some of the players as we get ready to dive deeper into the dreamtime. 

2.  Alien: Isolation (PC and Consoles)

Putting this to number two was a challenge (I wanted it badly to be my #1). That should speak to just how awesome this game is. Take all the garbage Alien games of the past and omit them from your memories. This is the game you've always wanted. Based on the universe Ridley Scott helped create, you play the daughter of Ripley on a mission to learn more about your missing mother (who was on the Nostromo). Terrifying survival horror with beautiful design and an alien that is unpredictable at all times. One I'll be sure to visit again and again when I want to see what a medium budget game with next to no compromise looks and feels like.

1.  Dragon Age: Inquisition (PC and Consoles)

Say goodbye to your social life and say hello to one of the best universe Bioware has created. Taking the mass criticism from gamers with their abysmal Dragon Age 2 release, they went back to the foundation of why I love their games and built out something truly awe-inspiring. The only western RPG to make me feel this invested and impressed has been Witcher 2 and I can tell you this, Witcher 3 was most likely delayed after CD Projekt saw the amount of love Bioware poured into this open-world experience. Every decision and relationship and quest feels meaningful (okay, maybe not the shard-collecting ones). You're left with companions that you want to actively talk to and learn about and you're given a universe and story that you absolutely want to see through to the end...and probably see through to the end again while making drastically different choices. 

The Top 10 Albums of 2013 (According To Me)

An excellent year for music. Keep in mind, I'm including EPs in my list. 

10. Dopplereffekt - Tetrahymena (EP)

Lurid, dark, and to the point. I've gone back to this EP a lot this year.  If you enjoy the darker electronic sounds with a German influence -- this is it. 

9.  Om Unit - Threads (LP)

Equal measures soundscapes, hip hop, drum and bass, and trance. Effortlessly showcasing his influences and interest in avoiding being pigeonholed. A lovingly crafted album with a repeat-friendly formula.  

8.  Tim Hecker - Virgins (LP)

Yet again, Tim Hecker manages to assault my sense with brilliant melancholia. Part of my writing ritual this year. Inspirational, moody, dark, conflicted, and uncompromising. 

7.  Sepalcure - Make You (EP)

To me, there's no agenda here. A couple of dudes creating a lovely instrumental adventure in making music you love and keeping it genuine. 

6.  Benjamin Damage - Heliosphere (LP)

One of my top underrated release of the year. Each track asks for you to listen again. Something driving, but don't call it 'techno' -- it delivers more than that, but still makes you want to move. 

5.  Atoms for Peace - Amok (LP)

This album is probably on a lot of lists and for good reason. Nearly flawlessly production and enthusiasm went into this one. One of my favorite releases with Yorke and Godrich. 

 4.  Moderat - II (Import) (LP)

I mentioned 'Import' because one of my fave tracks on it (above) was never included on the standard release. I never expected another Moderat album to happen, but it did. I certainly didn't expect it to outdo their last one (which stands out more than both acts' albums to me). So yeah, to me, this is the best thing both Apparat and Modeselektor have made. I've listened to it far too many times than I'm willing to admit. 

 3. Bibio - Silver Wilkinson (LP)

I adored the first Bibio album. I really liked the second album. I absolutely worship this one. The most consistent and thought-out release by him yet. Every track is excellent -- zero filler.  

 

2. Burial - Rival Dealer (EP)

This guy just keeps blowing my mind. So much stuff happening here and it comes across so natural and effortless. At times brutal/industrial and at other times soothing and full of compassion -- this tribute to the lonely and abused wins across the board. The yearly Burial EPs have become one of those things I eagerly anticipate and this EP stands head above most releases out there.

1.  Boards of Canada - Tomorrow's Harvest (LP)

Every single year that passed, I would lose a little more hope that another BoC album would happen. So finally a new album is announced and my expectations were staggeringly high. Nearly a year after its release and I'm happy to say this is as good as their past legends. Timeless tracks that continue to grow on me. So after 25+ listens, I can comfortably admit, it's my personal best of 2013. 

The Top 10 Games of 2013 (According to Me)

I'll admit it, 2013 definitely dominated on the indie game side -- that doesn't mean several larger-scale titles didn't make my list of favorite gaming experience of 2013. 

10.  Papers, Please! (PC, Mac)

Taking place in a fictional Communist-state (very similar to the USSR of yesteryear), you're forced to use your powers of deduction to verify if people crossing the border into your country are valid residents -- then things get a little fuzzy. There's something both addicting and terribly sad about this title.  The lines begin to blur as you realize that the rules you're following are causing genuine hardship on others. Need I mention that you'll be sent to prison (and your family will be thrown out to the streets) if you fail to do your job right? A stellar 'art meets adventure' experience.  

9.  Metro: Last Light (PC, Mac, Linux, Xbox 360)

A dark yarn that places you inside a dystopian near-future Russia that is equal parts shooter, survival horror, and stealth -- with a great sci-fi twist. A real labor of love experience developed by a Russian team of developers that plays like a AAA high-budget game. The reality:  a small team in a cramped office in Eastern Europe poured their hearts out to make their vision happen. The development of this game saw it go through two publishers, as THQ is now defunct. I'm glad it was finished and it's certainly worthy of your time if the bolded statement above appeals to your genre taste. 

8.  Outlast (PC)

Some of the biggest and best industry veterans get together and make the ultimate survival horror experience. This title is not for the faint of heart, but if you like adventure horror -- this is one of the finest. Your character is a reports. He has no weapons and no attacks -- the video camera is your only weapon and trust me, you'll need it (and that helpful night-vision mode). Investigate this asylum at your own risk -- you'll never forget what you'll find inside. 

7.  Dishonored: The Brigmore Witches (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)

The second (and final) DLC expansion to the Dishonored universe is even better than the original game. In a matter of hours, you're given a very personal peek at the Dishonored universe. Something I would have loved to see more of in the full game. If you enjoyed Dishonored, make this a must-buy. 

6.  The Swapper (PC)

A sci-fi puzzler that has you constantly transferring your soul (and in turn, murdering your past selves) to escape a haunted space station. A moral conundrum that is a treat to experience. Did I mention all of the 3D objects and environments in the game are modeled using clay? A really atmospheric and haunting experience that encourages problem solving and trigger finger moves. 

5.  Kentucky Route Zero (PC, Mac)

If David Lynch made a surrealist adventure game for the ages. That is the perfect synopsis of this 5-part episodic adventure (currently two are out with a third coming out soon). Expect a surreal and moving and dreamy experience where there are no puzzles -- exploration is the key and reading is important too. I've been eagerly awaiting the next episode. 

 4.  Tomb Raider (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

After a slew of terrible and subpar releases, Tomb Raider finally gets the reboot it deserved. Visually gorgeous, lots of room to explore, fun narrative, modernized controls that pay huge homage to the Uncharted series (which in many ways nods its hat to the original Tomb Raider).  I ended up playing through this one twice just to find all the hidden goodies. 

 3. Gone Home (PC, Mac, Apple Store)

You return home after a one-year European adventure. You arrive to find your parents and sister missing. There is a frantic message on the answering machine from your weeping sister. You are now allowed to explore this large abandoned Oregon home to solve the mystery. The more you look, the more letters and information you'll find about your family's secrets until you find out what's really going on. A game that is as much about exploration and atmosphere as it is about true love.  

2.  Bioshock Infinite + Burial At Sea (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Ken Levine makes the spiritual successor to Bioshock and it's as thought provoking and memorable as the original. The follow-up expansion called Burial at Sea is equally essential to any one that's been fascinated with the universe. 

1.  The Last of Us (PS3)

The most moving and well-written narrative and acting in a game -- seriously, no story-centric game has gotten remotely close to this (yet). Prepare for a slow building and emotionally driving experience. You will think on the conclusion of this game days/months/years later. Every title that attempts to create emotionally engaging characters and stories are taking notes from this. 

Top 5 films of 2012 according to me!

I'm not even going to pretend there were 10 films I loved in 2012. So here are five films that impacted me and will ultimately end up in my collection. I also want to point out that with the exception of one film (Lincoln), the remainder were written or co-written by the director--this seems to be a common thread in the films I enjoy. 

5. Lincoln

Stephen Spielberg is nearing his 70th year on this earth. This is both maddening and exhilaration to me. He is no longer at the point in his life where he wants to challenge his viewer or to prove anything to anyone. He's confident in his ability to deliver good films quickly and efficiently with minimal fluff. He acknowledges that life is too short to spend too long on a film. With that said, he's still putting out films that continue to gain my respect and awe. One of the few superstar directors that has aged well in terms of retaining his craft (Lumet and Scorsese also come to mind). With that said, Daniel Day Lewis is as legit as Lincoln could get. Method actor in action. This film is both slow paced, thought provoking, a bit too preachy (and musically overdone) at times, and hilarious when it needs to be. It's worth your time. 

4. Dark Knight Rises

A lot of people are torn on the final film in the Dark Knight series by Chris Nolan and brother. I'm  the first to admit that it has its faults. Regardless of those faults, it took something as unrealistic as Batman and turn that universe into one you can believe in. Ultimately, closing out a complex and gritty trilogy like this is going to have some issues and this one had a few stumbles (a bit too camp in some spots and a few loopholes). Regardless, Nolan delivered a great film that's a great balance of pop and retains the indie visual flair he's known for (thanks to his longtime cinematographer Wally Pfister). I can't think of any director that's tackled a trilogy of this kind and concluded it better. It belongs in your library. Now, it's time for Nolan to go back to something smaller and more personal. I'll be here waiting. 

3. The Master

Paul Thomas (P.T.) Anderson isn't one to shy away or compromise from anything. I agree that Boogie Nights and Magnolia are all great films, but it was with There Will Be Blood and The Master where I truly became a believer. Something about his craft has evolved to a point where not an ounce of him is trying to win the audience over. These films were made in his mind and ultimately, if everyone leaves the theater because the material is offensive or uninteresting, he doesn't care. I find this so alluring. A man who lives in his mind and has people pay to bring that experience to reality--lucky man. Joaquin Phoenix is flawless in his role and challenges the like of Daniel Day Lewis for the method acting award. If you don't cringe, smile, and feel uncomfortable during his performance, you're probably dead inside. This will be the second P.T. film added to my collection--I get a lot of hate for not owning them all, but I like to stay true to myself. Worth your time. 

2. Django Unchained

Tarantino is another director/writer that rarely compromises, but his influences are perfectly placed in the middle ground where art and pop culture meet. It's fair to say that not a moment in Django is portrayed accurately based on the timeline and social issues it collides with--that's not the point. Tarantino mixes in music from all eras with dialog that would have never been spoken during that time to deliver an experience that really felt new to me. I was laughing and cringing in equal measure. I also think this one has some of the best writing out of all his films. Jamie Foxx is stellar and believable. DiCaprio plays his first villain (as far as I know) and he played it like he's got something to prove--I'm a believer. Great stuff!

1. Moonrise Kingdom 

All my friends are probably rolling their eyes by this point since I'm an overly proclaimed (mostly by myself) Wes Anderson fan. I'm an equally large Nolan fan and for me to place his work at #4 on this list, I think it should speak to the quality of this film. Wes has figured out that perfect balance of keeping things quirky and visually dreamy while delivering dialog and chemistry that can win over even a casual moviegoer. This is definitely an achievement.

Okay, I'm done. Thanks for reading my rants. 

Top 10 albums of 2012 according to me!

What an excellent year for music. The following are the top 10 that made the biggest impact on me this year. 

10. Blondes - Blondes 

Don't be fooled by the name--this is actually Blondes' sophmore album. This gem has gotten so many listens from me while I'm writing, working, or being creative--not even funny. Simple, flawed, lo-fi, electronic melodies and rhythms that ease my soul. Take the journey. It's worth your time.

9. Burial - Kindred

Yes, this is technically an EP and not a full album, but Burial's EPs are essentially albums. Each going on a tangent that lasts up to 40 minutes--dragging through various genres and elements. I don't know how he does it, but there's no one out there that's been able to touch his gritty production value. A dark, soulful, dirt infested mess you can't help, but adore.

8. BVDUB - The First Day + Resistance is Beautiful

Brock (aka BVDUB) is an amazing man. I've gotten to know him a bit via email and his music speaks leaps about his stance on the industry.  Each track last 15 to 30 minutes and manages to defy all commercial qualities and never gets dull. He's currently living in China, but he plans to return one day to California--I  hope to give him a platform to share his lovely work in Sacramento. An underrated gem.

7. Clams Casino - Instrumental 2

Clams Casino has been getting a lot of hype the last couple of years and for good reason. A lot of his work is generally for popular rap artists. The highlight for me is actually his Instrumental series which consist of the stripped down (you guessed it) instrumental version of the tracks he's made for different artists. The second in the series is just as essential and it's totally free to download. 

6. Daniel Avery - Water Jump

A loving homage to the early '90s darker dance music scene. Each track in this release shifts through different genres melding 303 and 909 energy. It's energetic, dark, strange, and manages to stay fresh for me. I'm rarely into dance music these days, but innovative producers keep it coming back for me.

5. Hammock - Departure Songs

This is the second time Hammock has made it to my top 10 for a year. The sleeping/relaxing soundtrack to your year. Bordering on shoegaze, but never berating you with it--a must own for anyone that enjoys the ambient side of artists like M83, Ulrich Schnauss, and Sight Below. 

4. Simian Mobile Disco - Unpatterns

This goes down as the best SMD album for me, hands-down. Eschewing the pop vocals of their previous releases and more palatable than their minimal techno release called Delicacies. There's a lot of analog love in this release. 

3. Legowelt - The Paranormal Soul

What a legendary album. Totally old school and totally unapologetic about what it is. Lots of crazy cool analog synths too. If this track doesn't take you back, then I'm pretty sure you've wasted a lot of time reading this little blog. 

2. Lemonade - Diver

The first time I listened to this release, I didn't quite know what to make of it. A similar experience to the older Junior Boys releases. I felt it was a bit too much initially and with repeated listens, it just hooks you. The simplicity of the vocals combined with the layered love given to the music. This one definitely proved a real highlight for the year. 

1. Chromatics - Kill for Love

Johnny Jewel is a production mad man. One of the few artists out there that can make me gobble up so much pop music by layering it with layers. Also, that methodical programming and dirty vinyl trademark. I'm not even going to rationalize it for you--this album is fantastic and hasn't aged one bit for me after tons of repeat listens.

The top 10 games of 2012 according to me!

I think we can all admit that 2011 was a better year overall for games than 2012--happy now Joe Vierra? With that said, I still say that this year still had some great titles that need to be mentioned. Take note that one of these games came out on consoles in 2011 and another was only on iPhones before this year.

Honorable mention: Mass Effect 3 (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)

Unfortunately, ME3 didn't make it into my top 10, but it was looming right there below it. I felt everything else I mentioned took a priority to it, but I did enjoy ME3. Even though it was the weakest of the three and ultimately, my decisions in the first two games amounted to mean very little as Bioware concluded the story pretty much in the same way for all players with three forced conclusions. Regardless, the game was a very fun action RPG and definitely entertained me to the very end. 

10.  Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC)

Okay, so I really don't like MMO type RPGs. Also, this game originally came out in late 2011, but missed the public eye due to being a paid game. Enter 2012, it gets revamped and goes free-to-play--opening up the door to a lot more gamers. With that said, Bioware went and spent a ton of money to create a world full of characters that speak, have stories to tell, and ultimately did a decent job of spiritually creating a third Knight of the Old Republic (KOTOR). Give it a go. If you enjoyed the KOTOR titles, you'll enjoy your adventure, even if you opt not to finish it to completion. 

9.  Sine Mora (PC, XBLA, PSVita)

When it comes to shooters--I think this is one of the best I've played in a long time. Visually, it's gorgeous. In terms of difficulty, it gently works you into the brutal difficulty of the later levels. Best of all, you can generally nab this one for a few bucks on the Steam sales. If you enjoyed the old school shooters of yesteryear (e.g. 1942, Gradius, etc.) then this one has your name all over it.

8.  Journey (PS3)

It's fair to say that Journey is probably one of the most visually appealing titles ever made. Did I mention that the soundtrack has been nominated for a Grammy? Continuing to border on the 'art meets game' territory that's proven to be a very controversial debate over the last few years. This was the only non-PC (it's on PS3 yo) title I bought in 2012. A fine example of why the PS3 serves to deliver the best exclusive content in the current-gen console climate. If you have a PS3 and don't own Journey--you're doing yourself a major disservice. 

7.  Hotline Miami (PC)

The makers didn't deny for one minute that the movie Drive served as a big influence in this game.  From the '80s flair, to the shockingly rad electronic soundtrack, to the excess of violence that leaves you feeling dirty to the core--this is a challenging little beast that keeps you coming back for more punishment.

6.  Superbrothers: Swords and Sworcery (PC, Mac, iOS, Android)

All through 2011, I kept hearing about how this amazing retro looking gem was blowing minds and soothing ears--then, we finally got a PC and Android release and the rest of the world got a chance to partake. Don't let the 'retro' wording fool you. This game looks and sounds far superior to the visual look it's emulating. Constantly breaking that fourth wall and having you try innovative ways to solve puzzles. Loved it! 

5.  Sleeping Dogs (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

The name of this game is very appropriate. This is an underrated gem. The gameplay is tight. The story is fun and well written. The side quests weren't the best in the world, but the core story and experience are enough to give titles like GTA a run for the money while offering more depth and flexibility that fans of Shenmue and the Yakuza series would approve of. Give this sleeping beast a shot. 

 4.  Dishonored (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

This one really caught me by surprise. Took the sneaky thieving elements of the Thief series and mixed it with the leveling and power skill-tree of Bioshock. The story isn't quite on par with that of the original Bioshock, but regardless, this is a great experience that any fan of either Thief or Bioshock would be pleased to own. 

 3. Hitman: Absolution (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Be warned--this game has massive replay value. You can complete your mission objectives your own way. This isn't hyperbole either. For example, do you take the poison in the cellar and disguise yourself as a chef and poison your target's food? Or perhaps you go in and avoid that scenario altogether and dress up as a guard and pretend you're working with the enemy? Your options are varied and very rewarding. As a non-fan of the Hitman series, consider me finally won over. 

2.  The Walking Dead (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Proof that character development and great writing goes far beyond a game's graphics engine. The visual design is simple and charming, but the story and world are a whole different story. Telltale stepped out of their typical mold of humorous adventure games (e.g. Sam & Max, Tales of Monkey Island) to deliver a series that continuously builds and gets you emotionally involved. Best of all, your decisions affect how the story progresses and how people perceive you in your party. An emotional roller coaster that deserves the praise its getting. 

1.  Max Payne 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

I was one of the first people to get worked up when Rockstar took the development helms of MP3 rather than Remedy (creator of the original two MP titles). Let me assure you, MP3 is a fantastic product. Max as a character is more realized and self deprecating than ever. One of the few titles I finished, only to pick it up immediately after and replay again. This rarely happens for me. Rockstar is allowed to make as many GTA games as they like, if it means titles like MP3 and L.A. Noire are going to be put out. 

The top 10 games of 2011 according to me

Okay, the moment you geeks have been waiting for--my top 10 games of 2011. Without further ado, let's do this.

10. Bastion 
To say that Bastion is the best looking 2D game I have seen all year (yes, I'm aware of Rayman) is an understatement. Gorgeous 1080p visuals and style that kept me hooked until I concluded our hero's adventure and reunited the Bastion. The soundtrack is fabulous and the narrator is laughably good. 

9. Dead Space 2
Well, it was brought up to me that my #9 was actually a 2010 release (Limbo) and that I forgot to include one of my favorite games from 2011--so here it is, Dead Space 2. This is one of those IPs that genuinely thrills and had enough story, universe, and character development to really deem itself worthy of novels and other non-gaming media. It was nice to hear Isaac's voice this time around. Turn the light off, crank up the speakers/headphones and let this one take you.

  
8. L.A. Noire
The ballsiest venture from the Rockstar folk--this is the adventure game I always wanted them to make. The game comes across like an action game, but it is literally a straight-forward adventure game with action elements thrown in to keep things moving. You're talking, analyzing, looking for clues, and ultimately wanting to go back to solve the crime fully. The game lets you get by even when you miss clues or put the wrong perp behind bars--for this reason alone, there's a lot of replay value in the universe. 

7. Gemini Rue
One of the coolest old school adventure games of yesteryear was made in 2011. I'm not joking--this is probably one of the finest adventure games to come out and it's made by a college student. From the design, dialog, and soundtrack, this is a total futuristic noir gem. My favorite downloadable game of the year, hands-down.  

6. Batman: Arkham City 
I think it's fair to say that Rocksteady pretty much made the best superhero (if you can call Batman that) game ever made. So for them to pretty much double the quality in terms of story, things to do, and generally leaving the player feeling like there's always something around the next street corner of Arkham City--it's a borderline miracle. I couldn't stop myself from finishing the story and I even found about 70% of the riddles. I have a feeling I'll be going back to this in a few months. 

5. Deus Ex: Human Revolution

From the Blade Runner influenced design to the "pick your play style" gameplay to the epic synth score, I was immediately smitten with Deus Ex. I adored the original and I can safely say that this game is the modern remolding of the original. The universe is rich and although the acting isn't award-winning, it fits the sci-fi noir look of the universe nicely. I highly recommend this to any gamers out there that enjoy a smart action game with plenty of western RPG elements.  

4. Uncharted 3
Naughty Dog are the best developers on the PS3--hell, they're one of the best developers in the universe. Without spoiling anything, I will say that Uncharted 3 is the most gripping tale told in a game this year. I was hooked from beginning to end to find out what happened. Did I mention that this is one of the most visually stunning games out there? The set pieces have  to be seen to be believed. The only reason it didn't get a higher spot--there didn't seem as much of an urge to go back and replay right after I finished this one. Either way, one of the finest games I have ever played. No brainer--buy it. 

3. Skyrim

I never expected myself to fall for this game. I'm being honest here, I was not a big fan of Oblivion or the previous iterations of this series. However, Skyrim pretty much took all the junk I disliked and threw them out to make a title for anyone that enjoys western RPGs. The world has been fully realized, the stories all manage to run alongside each other without getting too confusing, and somehow I felt like I was in control and I knew the path I wanted to take the whole time. Be warned, this game is a time sink and if you don't think you can afford a 50 hour game in your life, then just step away. Having completed most of my journey in this universe, I can safely say that a lot of love and hard work went into making this one happen. 

2. Portal 2
The most smile-inducing "makes me feel like I'm way smarter than I really am" experience of 2011. I think all my friends will collectively agree that Portal 2 is one of the most genuinely smart and charming experiences to have come out this year. From the way the story is told, to the way the puzzles play out--you're literally forced to use your brain to uncover the story. The cooperative aspect of the game is also brilliant and probably the best way to get a loved one to partake in a smart game and see that gaming isn't the derivative joke that the media makes it out to be. 

1. Witcher 2
I'll sum it up like this: Witcher 2 is the RPG that Bioware wishes it could make today. Talk about the most improved sequel ever made. For a small Polish studio to turn out what can only be summed up as one of the deepest story-centric RPGs I have played in years--not expected at all. CD Project Red gets my number 1 for the year. From the dialog, acting, universe/lore, soundtrack, controls, depth, and ability to modify the story (drastically) by making different decisions--this is the game of 2011.