Dear Reader,
Continuing my left-of-center yearly wrap-up piece, let’s look at threequels, unnecessary games, re-releases and botched stories in otherwise quality games. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? It is! Hit the jump!
Best Threequel: “Resistance 3” (PS3)
Okay, this one perhaps deserves some explaining. Of the many threequels released this year, “Gears of War 3” was probably the best game, but I think “Resistance 3” revitalized its franchise in a way no other title this year did. Many (read: me) were critical of the pairing down of R2’s generous multiplayer battles and co-op functionality, but the result was a more focused game. The campaign was so good it got very near “Half Life 2,” the weapons were spectacular and perfectly balanced, and the multiplayer was a blast. R3 didn’t rest on the laurels of its older brothers (cough Uncharted cough), it was definitive and new.
Also Awarded: Most Andrews Eating Crow for Doubting This Game.
Most Unnecessary Game: “Need for Speed: The Run” (Xbox 360/PS3/PC)
Raise your hand if you bought this game…I rest my case.
Also Awarded: Nothing.
Most Welcome Re-Release: “Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Collection” (PS3)
Yes, “Halo: Anniversary,” I see you raising your hand for me to call on you, but frankly, “Ico and Shadow of the Colossus” was more exciting. These artful games were calling out for a chance to reach a new generation, as opposed to “Halo,” which has been sold to me so many times that it makes up half my credit card statement.
Also Awarded: Most Murdered Giants, You Monster.
Worst Story in an Otherwise Great Game: “Batman: Arkham City” (Xbox 360/PS3)
“Arkham Asylum” had a great story, so it’s all the more baffling that AC jumped the shark (literally) so thoroughly. Ancient robots who can record video tape? Great white sharks? And can anyone explain to me how Protocol 10 is supposed to make any sense? Talk about Rocksteady just throwing crap at the wall and seeing what sticks. A great game, but a mess of a narrative.
Also Awarded: Pointiest Ears.
_AA
don’t take my word, just look skyward
