We are almost 8 months into 2015, which is crazy in its own right, but it is about to get even crazier. With the games heavy Fall lineup upon us, let me break down my top 5 games of 2015 so far this year!
5. Rocket League
Car soccer? I was skeptical at first too but Rocket League turned out to be the perfect summer game, especially for PS Plus members who saw it free in July. The physics engine is great, the game is addicting, and it appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers alike. You can spend hours or just minutes with this sports game and have a great time either way.
4. Shovel Knight (PS4)
All you technical people will tell me that Shovel Knight is not a true 2015 experience but it did come to PS4 in 2015 and was my first time with the game so it makes the list. A complete homage to the old school SNES platformers, Shovel Knight is a charming, yet brutal game. Everything in this game feels tight and calculated, and perfected, from the platforming to the upgrade system. It has jokes, bosses, and it is challenging and rewarding, just like the next game on the list.
3. Bloodborne
As with Shovel Knight, most of this game is challenge and reward. You will feel the desire to give up, like I felt, at least once, during this punishing game. But once you push past this feeling and complete your immediate task, you get a surge of accomplishment. That’s the premise of the whole game. Add to that, a gorgeous world with a chilling atmosphere, huge and incredible looking bosses and enemies, and lots of weapon variations to play with, and it is no wonder that Bloodborne is a solid game of the year contender thus far.
2. Batman: Arkham Knight
Batman: Arkham Knight is not perfect. There is way too much tank combat and some of the missions can be frustrating. But, the overall experience of Rocksteady’s finale in the Arkham trilogy is astounding. Combat is more fluid than ever, the Batmobile is a joy to drive, some of the villain side quests are good enough to be main plot lines themselves, and being the Dark Knight has never felt so fun. There is a lot to do in the game with new and familiar faces alike, and the Arkham Knight is a cool villain in my opinion. Another great summer blockbuster, just like the number 1 game on this list.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
This is a no-brainer for me. A game has not been able to suck me in for such a long period of time, ever. I put over 100 hours in my play through of The Witcher 3 and still did not see everything. The world is incredible with lots to explore, the side quests could easily be a game themselves, especially the ones that have to do with main characters. While the main plot could have been a bit stronger, it was not weak and I very much enjoyed the ending that I had carved out through my actions in the game. The combat is very smooth and quite fun, especially when you get a decapitating animation. Killing monsters has never looked so good, and Geralt is still the coolest white haired protagonist yet. The Witcher 3 is my game of the year so far, and it is going to be very tough to beat.