Game Of The Year 2022: Top Picks & Must-Play Titles

Hey gamers! Let's dive into the absolute best games that graced our screens in 2022. It was a year packed with incredible releases, innovative gameplay, and unforgettable stories. Whether you're an RPG fanatic, an action aficionado, or a puzzle prodigy, 2022 had something special for everyone. So, let's explore some of the most critically acclaimed and widely loved titles that made 2022 a standout year in gaming!

Elden Ring: A Colossal Achievement

When you think of the Game of the Year 2022, it's almost impossible not to immediately think of Elden Ring. FromSoftware, the masters behind the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and Sekiro, truly outdid themselves with this one. Elden Ring isn't just a game; it's a sprawling, breathtaking open-world experience that redefined the action RPG genre. Seriously, guys, if you haven't played it yet, you're missing out.

Why Elden Ring Stands Out

Elden Ring's immense and intricately designed world, The Lands Between, is a character in itself. Every corner of the map holds secrets, challenges, and stunning vistas. The freedom to explore and tackle challenges at your own pace is liberating. You can spend hours just wandering, discovering hidden dungeons, and battling formidable foes. The sense of adventure is palpable, and the game constantly rewards curiosity and exploration.

The combat system in Elden Ring is finely tuned and incredibly satisfying. It builds upon the foundation laid by previous FromSoftware titles, offering a deep and engaging experience. Each weapon feels unique, and mastering the various combat techniques is crucial for survival. The boss battles are legendary, pushing players to their limits and providing a tremendous sense of accomplishment upon victory. Defeating a particularly challenging boss is an unforgettable experience, marking a true test of skill and perseverance.

Elden Ring's lore, crafted by Hidetaka Miyazaki in collaboration with George R.R. Martin, is rich and captivating. The world is steeped in history and mythology, with complex characters and intriguing storylines. While the narrative is often cryptic and fragmented, piecing together the lore is part of the game's appeal. Exploring the backstories of the various demigods and understanding the events that led to the Shattering is a deeply rewarding experience. The game encourages players to delve deeper into its world, rewarding them with a richer understanding of its history and characters.

The Impact of Elden Ring

Elden Ring has had a profound impact on the gaming landscape, influencing other developers and setting a new standard for open-world action RPGs. Its innovative approach to open-world design, challenging combat, and intricate lore has inspired countless players and creators. The game's success has demonstrated the enduring appeal of challenging and rewarding gameplay experiences. Elden Ring is more than just a game; it's a cultural phenomenon that will be remembered for years to come.

God of War Ragnarök: An Epic Conclusion

Another titan that dominated 2022 was God of War Ragnarök. Serving as a direct sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018), Ragnarök continues the journey of Kratos and his son Atreus as they navigate the dangers of Norse mythology. This game is an absolute masterpiece in storytelling, character development, and visceral combat.

The Narrative Powerhouse

God of War Ragnarök delivers a powerful and emotional narrative that explores themes of family, destiny, and sacrifice. The relationship between Kratos and Atreus is at the heart of the story, evolving in complex and meaningful ways. As Atreus grapples with his identity and his role in the prophesied Ragnarök, Kratos struggles to protect his son while confronting his own past. The game delves into the complexities of their relationship, creating moments of both tenderness and conflict. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that add depth and richness to the narrative.

The world of God of War Ragnarök is stunningly realized, with each of the Nine Realms offering unique environments, creatures, and challenges. From the frozen landscapes of Fimbulwinter to the lush forests of Vanaheim, the game's visual design is breathtaking. The attention to detail is remarkable, with every environment feeling meticulously crafted and full of secrets to discover. Exploring the different realms is a joy in itself, each offering a distinct atmosphere and set of challenges.

The combat system in God of War Ragnarök is brutal and satisfying, building upon the foundation of its predecessor. Kratos' arsenal of weapons and abilities allows for a variety of combat styles, and the game encourages experimentation and mastery. The enemy encounters are challenging and diverse, requiring players to adapt their tactics and utilize all of their skills. The boss battles are epic in scale and intensity, pushing players to their limits and providing a thrilling sense of accomplishment. The combat is both visceral and strategic, requiring players to think on their feet and react quickly to changing situations.

Why Ragnarök Resonates

God of War Ragnarök resonates with players because of its deeply human story, its stunning visuals, and its satisfying combat. It's a game that stays with you long after you've finished playing, prompting reflection and discussion. The game's themes of family, destiny, and sacrifice are universal and timeless, resonating with players on a personal level. God of War Ragnarök is a triumph of storytelling and game design, solidifying its place as one of the best games of 2022.

Horizon Forbidden West: A Visual Spectacle

Don't count out Horizon Forbidden West! Aloy's journey continues in this visually stunning open-world adventure. Guerrilla Games took everything that made Horizon Zero Dawn great and amplified it, creating a truly breathtaking experience. This game is a visual masterpiece and a testament to the power of the PlayStation 5.

The Allure of the Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West boasts stunning graphics and a vast, diverse open world to explore. The environments are incredibly detailed, from the lush forests to the arid deserts and the snow-capped mountains. The machine designs are even more impressive than in the first game, with a variety of new and terrifying creatures to encounter. The game's visual fidelity is truly remarkable, showcasing the power of the PlayStation 5 and creating a sense of immersion that is unparalleled.

The gameplay in Horizon Forbidden West is refined and expanded, offering a greater range of options for combat, exploration, and crafting. Aloy's skills and abilities have been enhanced, allowing players to customize their playstyle and tackle challenges in a variety of ways. The game also introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to use a Pullcaster to traverse environments and a Shieldwing to glide through the air. These new mechanics add depth and variety to the gameplay, making exploration and combat even more engaging.

Horizon Forbidden West features a compelling narrative that builds upon the story of its predecessor. Aloy's quest to uncover the secrets of the Forbidden West and stop the encroaching blight is filled with twists and turns. The game introduces new characters and factions, each with their own motivations and agendas. The narrative is well-paced and engaging, keeping players invested in Aloy's journey and the fate of the world. The game's story explores themes of environmentalism, technology, and the consequences of human actions, making it both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Why It's a Must-Play

Horizon Forbidden West is a must-play for its stunning visuals, its refined gameplay, and its compelling narrative. It's a game that showcases the power of the PlayStation 5 and provides a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The game's open world is filled with secrets to discover, challenges to overcome, and breathtaking sights to behold. Horizon Forbidden West is a triumph of game design and a testament to the creativity and talent of Guerrilla Games. It is a game that will stay with you long after you have finished playing, reminding you of the beauty and wonder of the gaming world.

Other Notable Games of 2022

While Elden Ring, God of War Ragnarök, and Horizon Forbidden West often steal the spotlight, 2022 had many other amazing games worth checking out:

• Xenoblade Chronicles 3: A sprawling JRPG with a rich story and engaging combat.
• Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A fresh take on the Pokémon formula, offering a more open-world experience.
• Stray: A unique adventure where you play as a cat exploring a cyberpunk city.
• Immortality: An innovative FMV game that challenges players to piece together a missing film's secrets.
• Cult of the Lamb: A darkly charming mix of roguelike dungeon crawling and cult management.

Final Thoughts

2022 was an incredible year for gaming, offering a diverse range of experiences that catered to all tastes. From the epic open-world of Elden Ring to the emotional narrative of God of War Ragnarök, there was no shortage of unforgettable moments. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and experience the best that 2022 had to offer! Happy gaming, everyone!