While 2011 will probably not go down as a classic year in terms of games, there have been some truly remarkable releases. Here, in no particular order, are our favourite five that we think you’ll still be playing by the end of 2012…

Portal 2

An amazing example of the modern gaming experience, we found Portal 2 to be immersive, clever, sharp-witted, exhilirating, touching, daft, artistic and, most importantly, incredibly enjoyable. In a way, playing Portal 2 is like watching all of your favourite films at the same time, with the added bonus of playing the protaganist yourself. In short, a masterpiece of a game.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

A perfect blend of storytelling, action and stunning visuals has made Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim the very best game of 2011 for many games sites and reviewers. We don’t reckon it’s the best, due mainly to several bugs we experienced, but it is certainly up there in our favourite five. Expect to be sucked into a new universe – and stay there for a considerable amount of time.

Batman: Arkham City

We didn’t rate Batman: Arkham City as highly as its predecessor, but then we found Arkham Asylum to be pretty much perfect, so a tough one to beat. With dark, atmospheric environments and well-conceived plotlines and charaters, the latest chapter of the Dark Knight’s gaming life is a breathtaking, ambitious experience. Don’t be a joker – you need this game.

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

A fantastic, rip-roaring adventure game bolstered by an immersive storyline and top notch graphics, Uncharted 3 picks up the baton from its predecessors and powers down the home straight – it is a winner of epic proportions. Expect lush environments, explosive action and a genuine film-like experience.

Minecraft

Minecraft sneaks into our favourite five thanks to its wonderful originality and its ability to appeal to anybody of any age. Forget about structured storylines, Minecraft lets you play how you want to play and is as only as small as your imagination allows and we think Minecraft is one of the most important titles of recent years in its concept – you make of it what you want to. Buy it – and expect to lose dozens of hours in the process.


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