Screens of Fire: Top 5 Games of 2017

Here we go, it's a little late, but it's time to follow up my best anime of 2017, with my best games of 2017. Remember, this is based on my own personal opinion, and how much I was entertained by the games in question; so you're list could be completely different, and that's fine.

So let's get to it.

5. Resident Evil 7

Capcom's back to basic approach for the latest installment in this long running series ditches the action feel of the last couple if entries, in favour of a true survival horror theme; and boy, does it work wonders.

The atmosphere is dark and oppressive, and works well with the surrounding environments. The old dilapidated farmstead creates a creepy air, but the complex architecture lends a hint of faded grandeur, working together they create a hint of fall from grace. The sound design also works well, with both the music and effects getting into the players head, and under their skin, in order to unsettle them.

The gameplay is smooth and fun, with the controls being very responsive; which is helpful when you're trying to fight off some truly disgusting monsters. Even the stealth sections, the bane of a number of games, feel enjoyable. The weapons feel satisfying to use, without ever detracting from the sense of fear you feel, when you contemplate that there might be a molded around the next corner.

The only downside is that the main characters are a little bland. Then again, the Bakers are the real stars of the show, and they're fantastic; which when combined with the solid gameplay, leads to some memorable boss fights.

4. Persona 5

The latest, and most stylish entry, in Atlus' mind-numbingly popular Persona franchise.

The key part of any Persona game is the characters, and here Persona 5 succeeds with flying colours. Each member of the main cast is memorable, and likeable in their own way; and each gets the opportunity to show their stuff. On top of that we have the villains, who manage to be some of the most disgusting, yet human villains in the series; each as a motivation that makes sense (of a kind), but is still revolting. Then we have the confidants, and there isn't a single weak link amongst them. It's a delight to follow the story of each confidant through to its conclusion, see what makes them tick, and see their relationship with the main character evolve. Also, characters talk to each other, not just the protagonist, making them all feel more alive.

The gameplay is fun, being pulse-poundingly exciting, yet retaining the need for strategy that marks a good RPG. Battles can be difficult, but never feel unfair, and nothing beats that sense of satisfaction from beating a particularly difficult enemy. Between the two distinct styles of gameplay, there is enough here to keep a person playing for hours.

3. Metroid: Samus Returns

Samus Aran returns to the starring role for the first time since 2011's disastrous Metroid: Other M, and it's a massive success in my book.

Samus Returns returns to the two-dimensional perspective of the older games such as Fusion, along with their maze-like layout. Exploring the map in the quest for the path forward, as well as the numerous power-ups, is fun; and there is a regarding feeling of accomplishment when you finally conquer what stands in your way. The puzzles can be devious, but there is always a logic to them, so it never feels unfair.

Gameplay is quick and responsive. This makes the combat intense but controlled, making you feel like you really are playing as the universe's greatest warrior.

The story is very minimalist, and there isn't really any spoken dialogue. However, the game still provides plenty of characterisation through Samus' body language, marking as both professional and little irreverent at the same time. In this way the game shows that you do not need to be overly verbose to tell a story, it shows rather than tells.

Let's hope that Nintendo can follow this up with Metroid Prime 4.

2. Horizon Zero Dawn

A large move outside of their comfort zone for Guerilla Games, as they move from the Killzone series, onto something a little less grim, and it has done them a world of good.

Horizon Zero Dawn consist of an amazingly beautiful environment that takes your breath away the first time through, and even for several play-throughs afterwards. This makes it a real joy to explore, which is good, because that makes up the majority of the game. Delving into the darkest, most secret parts of the map, and rooting out the things that are hidden there. Which is all helped along by excellent and exciting gameplay, which is itself as open as the world around it. The game doesn't really force you to play in any one way, instead it gives you the tools, and leaves you to decide how you want to go about completing the objectives.

Aloy is also remarkable as a main character, feeling both relatable, and yet almost larger than life; and the way she is written immediately endears her to the audience. Her growth as she explores the plot of the game and uncovers it's mysteries, is both engaging and entertaining, leaving reluctant to put down the controller.

1. Nier: Automata

Fresh from the twisted mind of Yoko Taro, comes another adventure in some strange territory. Usually Yoko Taro's game have a different problem from most, being strong in story, but weak in gameplay. However, marrying his vision to Platinum Game's dynamic and fluid combat, has created something that is more than the sum of its parts.

Nier: Automata is an ethereal and emotional story, dredging a variety of emotions from the player, from wistfulness, to sorrow, and even joy. What seems on the surface to be a shallow action story about androids hides a compelling emotional centre. It even dares to get philosophical, asking questions about the meaning of our existence, and wondering what it is that makes us human. This is all helped along by some fantastically written characters, who feel like real people despite their circumstances.

However, the excellent story does not get in the way of the gameplay. Platinum Games brings the same intense combat that made Devil May Cry and Bayonetta such joys to play, only this time set in an open world. Every enemy encounter feels like an true battle, and the boss fights feel epic and intense, no matter how strange the boss may be. Not to mention that the game fits in many different shifts in gameplay here and there, ensuring that you never get board.

And there you have it. Those were my favourite games of the year, what were yours?

Until next time,

PhoenixAct.

Screens of Fire

Sunday 31 December 2017

Top 5 Games of 2017