The end of the year is fast approaching. The editors of WANT again enjoyed the past year immensely with movies, series, games and technology flying around their ears. But what were the absolute best of the past year? Editor-in-chief Mark Hofman shines his light on the best games.
To be honest, 2022 was not entirely dedicated to games. Of course the necessary new games were played, but personally I was mostly occupied with titles on Xbox Game Pass. Not everything was new, but I still really enjoyed myself. Even with titles we saw for the first time this year.
WANT Awards 2022: the best games according to Mark
Which brings me to the third year-end list of 2022. After my personal favorite movies and outstanding series, it is now time to shine light on my favorite games of the past year. A list I am personally quite proud of.
#1 Pokémon Scarlet & Violet | Nintendo Switch
Pokémon is the reason for me having a Nintendo Switch in my home. The games made my childhood and provide a bucket of nostalgia that I can enjoy immensely. So the arrival of Scarlet & Violet is a treat for me personally.
For me personally, it is a wonderful feeling to start a new adventure again and choose a Pokémon to do this with. Collecting different monsters, assembling a rock-solid team and the necessary frustration that comes with it make for a fulfilled feeling.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet fulfills those requirements without really taking a completely similar approach to previous volumes. Whereas you usually have to defeat eight gym leaders and follow the necessary side-tracks, in the game you play three storylines interchangeably. In addition to the gym leaders, you are also tasked with bringing down Team Star and discovering and defeating giant Pokémon. An ideal combination that adds plenty of color to the open world you venture into.
There are definitely some problems in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, but it doesn’t dampen the fun for me. I personally have yet to encounter many bugs and completely lose myself in the world. Exactly what games like this should do.
Catch ‘m all
#2 God of War Ragnarok | PlayStation 5
God of War Ragnarok is one of the best games of the year according to many, and I fully concur.
It is no secret that the game is incredibly well put together. The graphics of the title are extremely impressive. It takes full advantage of the gaming capabilities of the PlayStation 5 anno 2022.
The story is powerful, the gameplay is top notch and every moment with the title allows you to forget everything in life for a very short time. Might sound a little problematic, but it’s a joy.
#3 Xenoblade Chronicles 3 | Nintendo Switch
In all honesty, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has been my first experience with the franchise. While the game for the Nintendo Switch makes me feel like I missed something in my life, it also shows that there is still so much to explore.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is one of those typical games that really does take some getting used to. You get so much information in the beginning that you don’t know where to look.
Fortunately, that’s a part that changes quickly. Getting used to the style, gameplay and all the possibilities is over in no time. The start of ultimate fun on the Nintendo Switch.
Once this one takes place, it’s pure enjoyment. You lift yourself into a story and gameplay you won’t want to take yourself out of. Discover it for yourself, I would say, and you may want to try the other games as well.
