In a year thought to be one of the weaker ones seen this generation on the onset, 2019 in gaming actually provided some incredible experiences in gaming both expected, unexpected & even some that met incredible amounts of hype. Now it’s time to name the top five games released in 2019 (all games listed in chronological order by initial release date).
Resident Evil 2 (January 25th)
While this version of “Resident Evil 2” isn’t a 1:1 recreation of a classic that hasn’t aged too well, this re-imagining is a perfect example of a developer bringing together the best aspects from a franchise’s praised sequels (in this case “RE 4’s” camera angles & “RE 7’s” graphics) and adding them to a solid story featuring memorable & improved characters; creating long-lasting moments aplenty across several campaigns. There is definitely a level of difficulty & stress not seen in games today that allows for “RE 2” to feel even more unique. Capcom not only delivered a game worthy of its resource material, it also set a standard for video game remakes that will be held against any developer that attempts to bring games from the generations past to the modern era.
Mortal Kombat 11 (April 23rd)
Other than some of the choices in regards to Kustomization, Towers of Time & Krypt grinding (things players may not even care about in the long run as it doesn’t affect multiplayer), “Mortal Kombat 11” is the epitome of everything that’s great about a “Mortal Kombat” game. The battles are always exhilarating, topped off by sickening Fatalities or impressively timed Brutalities. Story Mode continues NetherRealm Studio’s streak of fun narrative presentations. The online offerings are plentiful yet again. Fighting game & “Mortal Kombat” fans alike will be eating this up like so much brain during a Tarkatan feast.
Indivisible (October 8th)
“Indivisible” is truly a “sleeper hit” when it comes to games in 2019 – a nice throwback experience that doesn’t rest on the troupes & mechanics of time gone by. The combat is intuitive & rewarding a majority of the time. The platforming is a mixed bag with the early & mid portions being a better example of enjoyable gameplay than what’s seen in the final dungeon. The art style, soundtrack & overall narrative will leave a smile on the face of almost any gamer. Fans of old school RPGs & platformers won’t be disappointed with the overall experience and should add this one to their collection as quickly as it takes protagonist Ajna to continuously pull unsuspecting allies into her head.
The Outer Worlds (October 25th)
While it may sound like a disservice to state “The Outer Worlds” is “‘Fallout’ in Space”, a majority of “The Outer Worlds” experience feels just like that right down to the protagonist’s presentation, quest structure, communication & dialogue options, and overall gameplay. Thankfully all of the “Fallout”-esque aspects are done expertly well with a satisfying quest set matching the overall combat and character customization options. The same grandiose, positive feeling gamers had playing “New Vegas” will return here and then some mostly thanks to the dialogue opportunities that may or may not turn a narrative opportunity on its head. There’s no reason a fan of the seventh generation “Fallout” games or FPS RPGs in general shouldn’t love this game.
Death Stranding (November 8th)
“Death Stranding” is so much more than a “walking simulator” assumed by those only judging the game by trailer footage. Kojima’s latest digital gaming presentation asks for patience both when moving throughout what’s left of the United States and when experiencing stories both large & small. The overall gameplay issues including mobility both on foot & while utilizing a vehicle, underwhelming “boss” encounters, and general repetition figuratively melt away by the game’s end as the plot unravels and the feeling of overcoming what seemed to be insurmountable odds both natural & supernatural becomes definitive. For the patient & understanding who aren’t looking for “Metal Gear Solid” under a different name, “Death Stranding” is nothing short of remarkable with obvious flaws & issues that carry on throughout.
