GamesBeat’s Game of the Year 2022

As we near the end of 2022, it’s time to look back at our favorite games of the year. This is an interesting one. Sure, we still have some big triple-A experiences that grab our attention, but 2022 also has a large number of indie games and other smaller games that will grab our attention.

Our selections, which the GamesBeat editorial team jointly decided, represent games across genres and platforms. We had to cut out some of our personal favorites to keep the list at 10, but we were all satisfied with highlighting these great titles.

10. Get lost

Stray, the indie title known simply as ‘that cat game’ prior to its release, proves to be much more than that. This adventure game has lots of incredible stories and cyberpunk explosions along with good background mechanics for its nimble protagonist.

Although Stray is a bit short on time, it doesn’t waste its time. Even the cat hero is more than just a gimmick, showcasing a lot of personality and intelligence. It may not be a big game, but Stray is a lovely, soulful title that will stick with you even after it’s over.

—Rachel Kaser

9. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II

Activision built a new merge engine for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2. It works on next-gen consoles as well as PCs, and allows for integration of weapons and copies. Modern Warfare II multiplayer map in Warzone 2. On top of that, MWII had both an excellent single-player and multiplayer campaign experience this year. The story takes an interesting twist, deviating from the path of modern American war propaganda in a way that is healthy for a game that is well received around the world.

Better storytelling, with enhanced roles for CIA task force leader Kate Laswell and new Mexican special forces soldiers — all of whom became key figures in the campaign. The action is intense, but the game finds a finer line between entertainment and sensational war violence than the 2019 title.

— Dean Takahashi

8. Ao Dai

Tunic is a lovely indie action game that literally takes the old-school Legend of Zelda vibes up its sleeve. You play as a fox in the familiar blue ao dai uncovering secrets and fighting the monsters that inhabit the world.

If you’re looking for a game with minimal manuals and tutorials — this is it. The design philosophy is a revival of the NES/SNES era. Tunic’s instructions — inspired by old game manuals — are written in a unique script that players must figure out how to read along the way. The story of this game is also quite minimal. However, the game updates some of these 1980s classic elements to the present day, borrowing from games like Souls.

Tunic is largely independent — aside from the music, the game was developed by Andrew Shouldice for over seven years. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the craft and art that created this magical world. It’s an easy proposition for gamers who want to explore.

— Jordan Fragen

7. Lamb Cult

If cute meets eldritch horror is your game genre, look no further than Cult of the Lamb. You play as an adorable sheep turned cult leader, splitting your time between managing your Animal Crossing-inspired herd and participating in rouge-like dungeon runs to collect resources and new followers.

The game is full of fascination and humour, and features enough customization options to allow the player to effectively role-play as the cult leader. For players looking for depth, there’s enough to keep you busy. The combat is frenetic and takes some getting used to, but it’s the right mix of satisfying yet challenging.

Publisher Devolver Digital has also worked with Streaming Toolssmith to integrate Twitch allowing viewers to get in on the action. Viewers can enter a raffle to name and customize followers. Periodically, the Twitch chat will also be able to vote to help or hinder the streamer. This increased interaction allows me to have fun both while playing and watching. The mix of genres, depth, customizability and horror combined with cute vibes was enough to put this little lamb on the list.

— Jordan Fragen

6. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

I have wanted a 3D Kirby background for decades. The 2D games in this series have always offered exciting adventures (even if I found the last game, Kirby Star Allies, a bit dull), but I also think the franchise could work. good animation as a 3D experience.

Kirby and the Forgotten Lands proved me right. It retains the appeal and fun of the series while adding (literally) depth. The game also features engaging boss battles, an intuitive two-player co-op mode, and an engaging soundtrack. I also like how it increases the difficulty. Sure, it’s another fun Kirby adventure at first, but you’ll have to work hard to beat some of the optional offerings once the credits roll out.

—Mike Minotti

5. Neon White

Neon White is one of the most unique games of the year. It is difficult to try to distill and explain in a few paragraphs. It’s a first-person action platformer where you use cards representing guns and special abilities to try to get through the levels as fast as you can.

I can’t get enough of it. Neon White feels as great as any first-person game, and it’s designed to let you replay dozens of levels (in my case, even hundreds of times) as you chase perfection. . I also love its bright Y2K-era-inspired aesthetic.

—Mike Minotti

4. Magical Snap

It’s no secret that mobile games are dominating the market, but Marvel Snap was a smash hit in 2022. I’ll put my cards on the table and say I’ve been obsessed since launch. Ben Brode and the team at Second Dinner built a game designed for media, and that game shows.

Marvel Snap borrows from Brode’s digital CCG Hearthstone original, but in a focused, mobile-friendly experience. Games (usually) have a final six turns, and deck building is manageable with only 12 cards to choose from. Each match has a unique feel due to the random placement. And the Snap mechanic takes the game to the next level, rewarding players with skill and knowledge of the game.

However, Marvel Snap’s most important contribution to the industry is its consumer-friendly monetization. Unlike other card games and mobile titles, players can progress and compete at high levels without spending money. I hope the team continues to add new ways to earn cards and extend its seasons for a month longer, but I’m still using many of the cards you earn early in your deck. This is a Clash Royale and Hearthstone combo that’s perfect for when you’re taking a break.

— Jordan Fragen

3. God of War Ragnarok

Ragnarök is the culmination of the God of War series’ long journey to adulthood. While its predecessor shied away from Kratos’ murderous past, considering it an embarrassing secret, Ragnarök confronts it head-on and ties the two discordant halves of the franchise together. It features a richer, more interesting cast of characters and enhanced combat mechanics.

It feels like the last leg of a very long journey we’ve all gone through with Kratos, with all the mixed emotions though evoked. Also, Christopher Judge and Sunny Suljic continue to be a great father-son duo.

—Rachel Kaser

2. Repentance

Repentance is the most unexpected thing of 2022. It’s a fascinating mix of historical drama and murder mystery — something we don’t often see in video games. Following the life of amateur detective-turned-artist Andreas Maler, Pentiment offers a brilliant small-town mystery, intertwined with tragedy, romance, humor and drama with a full cast of characters. color.

Its unique art style is also one of its highlights — Pentiment looks more distinctive than any other game of 2022. Some might find it a bit slow-paced, but the pacing is. helps create atmosphere and tension as Tassing’s community moves closer to boom. point.

—Rachel Kaser

1. Fairy Ring

The most popular, most discussed and ubiquitous game of 2022 is also the best game of the year. Elden Ring took FromSoftware’s addictive action role-playing formula and made it more engaging and enjoyable by diving into a massive open world. No matter which way you decide to explore, the Elden Ring will reward you with fun things to explore.

Playing it is like joining a community. That could mean teaming up with strangers or friends as you battle giant bosses. But that also involves comparing notes, talking to other people who have played the game to learn their strategies, builds, and discoveries.

Elden Ring was also a huge success and it is sure to influence the media world in the years to come. This could pave the way for bigger, more open games that put more trust in players.

—Mike Minotti