With the new year almost upon us, we look back at the last twelve months to discover some of the best video games of 2021.
Considering a global pandemic was still in full swing, 2021 was a pretty great year for video games. So as we get ready to welcome 2022 with open arms, let us look back on the year that was and remember some of the best games 2021 had to offer.
Halo Infinite (Xbox Series X/S, XBO, PC)
To say the press surrounding Halo Infinite wasn’t good is something of an understatement. But despite key staff members leaving, delays and serious fan backlash it’s a minor miracle that Xbox’s big hitter is as good as it is.
By going back to the series’ roots, Infinite focuses on the things that matter: amazing gunplay and fun action. The introduction of a more open world and a grappling hook that gives you the flexibility to go pretty much anywhere only strengthen that fact.
Halo Infinite is the perfect reason to buy an Xbox Series X and illustrates the incredible value of Xbox Game Pass.
Returnal (PS5)
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Even though it came out many months ago (all the way back in April, in fact) we just can’t stop thinking about Returnal. This action rouguelite sinks its teeth into you early – presenting you with an intriguing central mystery as you crash land on a dangerous alien planet.
But as your deaths start piling up, the constant gameplay loop will have you wanting to push yourself to progress further and further. You’ll want to see the next environment, try out the next weapon. It’s sure as hell not easy, but for those willing to take on the challenge it’s one of the best games on the PS5 right now.
Metroid Dread (Switch)
Originally announced in 2005, nobody ever expected Metroid Dread to still exist, let alone see the light of day. But boy howdy we’re glad it did because this action platformer is a thrill ride from start to finish.
The core mechanics of Metroid remain the same here – explore environments, find upgrades and defeat bosses. But by introducing the seemingly indestructible E.M.M.I. robots, Dread artfully transforms Nintendo’s favourite action hero from hunter to hunted in seconds. Our hands got plenty sweaty during this one and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
It’s worth noting that Metroid Dread looks especially good if you’ve managed to pick yourself a new Switch OLED model.
It Takes Two (PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, XBO, PC)
A surprise gem that has gradually taken gamers by storm, It Takes Two is something special indeed. It’s overall narrative of two pretty shitty people on the brink of divorce coming together might not gel with everyone, but it’s easy to get past when everything else is so bloody good.
A game all about cooperation with a friend or loved one, every moment of this adventure title is fun and creative. New gameplay mechanics are constantly tossed at you and each one will challenge your mind in fresh and exciting ways.
It Takes Two is dripping in charm, humour and fun, which easily makes it not just one of the best games of 2021, but an easy recommendation for pretty much anybody.
Death’s Door (Xbox Series X/S, PS5, XBO, PS4, Switch, PC)
Death’s Door might lack a big budget or high production value, but that just makes it shine all the brighter. Playing as a soul-reaping crow who is tasked with tracking down a stolen spirit, the game almost looks and feels like a game made by Studio Ghibli and we adored every minute of it.
Following an almost Zelda-like formula, the gameplay is tough yet fair – each upgrade opening up new exploration opportunities. But it’s the characters and world that make this independent adventure so special, and why you should definitely check it out right away.
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