The 2020 Game Surprises
Its the end of the year again! And like tradition, I’ve rummaged through my play histories and would like to highlight 10 games that really, pleasantly suprised me this year, so maybe some of you might give them a second look 😀. Here we go!
1. Murder by Numbers
This was an easy one. I love Picross and I love Phoenix Wright. So even a decently competent combination of both was sure to be a delight. And Murder by Numbers is even more than that. It’s a murder mystery and puzzle game that is witty, charming and cool. it had big shoes to fill and did it with ease. Bravo! 🙌
2. Cadence of Hyrule
We all know the Crypt of the Necrodancer sequel with a Zelda theme blew the original out of the water. And while that would be enough to make the list, the biggest surprise was this years deluxe physical release with all DLC on cartridge. I hope this kind of preservation will become a staple of Nintendos major digital releases. 👏
3. Desperados 3
Hats off to Mimimi who have now not only delivered one but two world class tactic games. Desperados 3 is once again brilliant, exciting and challenging. Truly proving that the team isnt lightning in a bottle but world class. And special mention need to go out how incredibly well it controls with a gamepad, its utter magic! 😳🎮
4. Journey to the Savage Planet
There aren’t enough games that make the joy of exploration their core focus in game design. We’re too afraid, that people might miss content. Savage Planet was a wonderful, surprising, colorful romp, which only has your curiosity as a forward drive, full of wonder. I’d love to experience again.
5. Outer Wilds
Since I’m praising Savage Planet, I need to mention its artsy-er, cleverer and way less approachable cousin Outer Wilds. This game... is absolutely brilliant yet merciless. So frustrating yet so rewarding. Its this generations Myst! And as someone who experienced the impact of Myst I mean that with the highest praises. I didnt just love it, I adore it for its uncompromising vision.
6. Need for Speed Heat
What is this? A new Need For Speed, that dares to be… fun again?? Wow, Ghost Studios’ take on NFS is such a breath of fresh air. The day/night mechanic is clever&cool and everything has a invigorating energy to it how I haven’t felt since Forza Horizon 1. Finally! Need for Speed is back and it just feels right.
7. Gris
Yes, Gris is beautiful. But to my surprise the stellar visuals actually masked the fact that there is also an incredible well designed metroidvania game with a deep message underneath. Nomada Studios makes creating a masterpiece game look effortless. Simply breathtaking and a must play. I can’t wait to see what they will produce next.
8. Sayonara Wild Hearts
Speaking of artists making game-making look easy: Simogo! After dishing out amazing games on mobile for years, Sayonara feels like an indie art-house band having the most flamboyant pop sellout ever, and its glorious. This game is the first ever true playable record in existence. If you haven’t experienced this vinyl album of a game, do it!
9. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Dear Vanillaware PR: It took me 3 months after release to hear of this game 🤯. Seriously, I’d look at any of your releases in a heartbeat. How did I miss this?? Its... incredible! This gorgeous, horribly named, mind bending insane, visual novel - mech game will become one of THE hidden gem of the last generation. Bet me!
10. Cyberpunk 2077
Jep here it is. It is on my surprise list. Let me explain: I had very little hype for this game, and it really tries to copy the industries best studios in several regards and fails hard. But where it was its own, where it had to invent their own path; in the depth of its characters and the city design, it is a truly mind blowing experience. For me, CD Projects biggest mess up was truly a huge, welcome surprise of the year.
