With more people working from home than ever before, it’s no surprise that digital entertainment took center stage in 2020. While a lot has been written about all the streaming video services, it was also a big year for video games.
Check out this very abridged list of some of the top video games of 2020.
Cyberpunk 2077
This was one of the most anxiously awaited video game releases of the year for many reasons, but did it deliver? According to most reviewers, yes and no. It gets high marks as a sprawling, open-world game in the vein of Skyrim, where the main game quest is enjoyable and engrossing (if a bit short), but the real depth comes from all the optional side missions, which have major impacts on the overall gameplay (i.e. your choices will have consequences). However, while the game itself is a blast, players and reviewers alike report a larger than expected number of bugs and issues that can make the gameplay frustrating. The bugs seem to vary, based on platform.
The verdict - despite the frequent bugs, the game is a blast to play and a strong addition to the RPG gaming arena.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Final Fantasy has been a familiar title to video game players for over two decades (nearly 23 years actually) and Final Fantasy 7 Remake holds its own against any of the previous entries in the series. The game is planned as the launching pad for an entirely new Final Fantasy series in coming years, so the title has a difficult mission to accomplish.
While the game isn’t perfect, it largely delivers on its promise and meets most players’ high expectations. The combat system is excellent, with a wide variety of enemies to fight, making battles entertaining, challenging, and fun. The story is also fleshed out, giving the game more emotional weight than previous versions. This RPG delivered for gamers in 2020.
Last of Us - Part 2
Building on the initial entry in this series from way back in 2013, the seven year wait was worth it for this follow up. Unlike the majority of video games, even the most deeply immersive, Last of Us Part 2 tells a powerful story that players will find utterly compelling. Many reviewers have marveled at the storytelling involved, that takes this game above and beyond the vast majority of other titles.
Combat is challenging and taking damage has more of an immediate impact on your ability to fight than most combat systems. The game provides a real mix of combat, stealth, and just general survival. Reviewers have suggested that players be ready to be riveted, surprised, and even traumatized by this winning title.
Ghost of Tsushima
This PS4 exclusive title provides an open world adventure, based on an imagined vision of feudal Japan. Fans of games like Assassin's Creed will feel right at home in this stealthy action game. The combat system builds on gameplay from other titles (Assassin's Creed, Batman Arkham, etc.) but adds some new twists, based on your stances that lead to different types of swordplay. The graphics are equally impressive, with spectacular landscapes and detailed backgrounds which make the simple act of exploring a joy.
The quest itself is compelling and all of the many side-missions bring the game to life, delivering 40-50 hours of gameplay to run through all of the quests. This is a sprawling samurai adventure that should keep gamers enthralled throughout.
