The past 8 years is where I came to the realization that video games are more than recreation but something that brings people together. Here are my choice selections for the experiences I’ve enjoyed with friends and family along the way.
Batman: Arkham Asylum
“A Batman game that lives up to the idea of what Batman encompasses. The concept of stealth wetwork and detective puzzles charmed the OCD within me. Clearing out rooms with precision and satisfying combat made it a completely satisfying experience.”
Shadow Complex
“Metroidvania with modern controls, humorous ragdoll physics, and an everyman protagonist voiced by Nolan North combine for hours of memorable fun. Shadow Complex is tough at first but it constantly rewards you with better equipment and weapons that, by the end you become an unstoppable machine and THAT is fun.”
Journey
“I jumped on the Journey train when it was re-released for the PS4 and it warmed my cold, empty heart. In one session, from beginning to end, brought a spectrum of emotions that left me drained but at peace.”
Sleeping Dogs
“Hard boiled John Woo action in an open world setting makes for the best rendition of Hong Kong cinema in a video game. United Front Games, now defunct, utilized the backdrop of Hong Kong as the playground for tight narrative and filled it with action packed moments to boot. Don’t forget to stop by the street vendor for those pork buns.”
Rayman Legends
“I truly enjoyed the whimsical take on a classic series combined with the co-op slap fights that ensued. Rayman is one of my favorite platformers and it was exciting to see it captivate a new audience.”
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
“For a series that was seen as the posterchild of derivative open world games, Black Flag dispelled that notion with fun high seas ship combat and hijinks. Pirate settings are one of my favorites and to see the charm of traversing the high seas, capturing forts, and taking on legendary ships felt true to the period. Raise the black sail!”
South Park: The Stick of Truth
“Merging the sophomoric humor and turn-based RPG combat makes for a crude, engaging romp. South Park is one of the few media properties that translates well into the video game medium and playing it felt like an extended episode of the TV show. Visiting Canada was probably my highlight from The Stick of Truth, next to fighting Mongolians.”
Life is Strange
“Ever wondered what Donnie Darko would be like as a video game? Well, here it is! Dontnod tackled an adventure genre dominated by the cookie-cutter Telltale template and refined it with time travel, impactful choices, and a heart bending story that made me want the next episode as soon as possible. Who knew teenage drama was so interesting?”
