Top 10 Games of 2011
1. Portal 2
Portal 2 is a funny, charming and unique game, there really isn't too many video games like this. Sporting some great writing and voice work as well as some deviously designed puzzles (I felt smarter after playing this), Portal 2's single-player campaign is superior to its predecessor in every way.
2. Mortal Kombat
One of the greatest Mortal Kombat games in the series. This really does take you back to the original games with its 2D gameplay and gory fatalities. If you are a veteran of the series, this is a must have. The levels are greatly detailed, and the character models are pretty cool. Each character has several fatalities, and casual gameplay is rewarded by a point system generated by combos, wins, and fatalities. The game runs smooth, the online is fun, and the fatalities are gruesome. This is one of my favourite fighting games ever.
3. Saints Row: The Third
I admit that I'm a classic Saints Row fan. I loved Saints Row 1 and 2 to death and I was very overwhelmed by the shift of direction in the third game. But I would be lying if I said that "I didn't enjoy it" because I absolutely did. It's basically fucking Chaos. Beautiful and sexual chaos is what this game is. The story might be lacklustre and graphics can leave much to be desired but what a crazy roller coaster this game was.
4. DiRT 3
If you're talking strictly about sheer volume of content, depth of presentation and crazy attention to detail than there's no doubt Forza Motorsport 4 was absolutely the best driving game of 2011. However if you're talking about sheer 'fun' than DiRT 3 takes the prize home here. Codemasters' off-road racing series has redefined the line between arcade and simulation with a lot of great cars (even more if you're looking at DLC), excellent tracks (also more that's DLC) and beautiful graphics. Even though the Gymkhana mode isn't that good the sheer driving, content and progression in this game kept me playing this game for months.
5. Bastion
The game is still stunning in both its art direction and writing. Gameplay is fun and varied, and there are many different experiences to be had throughout. It’s also nice to once again see the game that laid the foundation for Transistor‘s presentation and mechanics. Bastion is an exciting experience, and one worthy of every bit of praise that it has received.
6. Driver: San Francisco
This game is the very definition of a 'hidden gem'. Excellent production values and an enormous fun factor. The city, music, cars and story create a 'Starsky and Hutch' style. Humour in various dialogues can be funny. Driving/shifting mechanics are great. The handling, feel, response, and sound of each vehicle feels very right. It sucks that not people played this. This game also scratches the itch of a Midtown Madness styled racing game that's missing in the video game market for years.
