With 2020 likely to launch the next generation of video gaming with Project Scarlet and the PS5 on the way, 2019 is the last year of this generation, and what a year it was. From fascinating indie games to big Triple-A titles, this year had it all. Here, we’re highlighting our 7 favorite games from 2019.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
In the past, Star Wars games have been pretty hit or miss. The 2017 Star Wars Battlefront was met with much disappointment, paling in comparison to its predecessor Battlefront II. It left me wondering if modern, AAA studios could successfully pull off a Star Wars game. However, it is safe to say that Star Wars Fallen Order is a total hit.
Taking place just after “Order 66” is implemented in Revenge of the Sith, this action-packed game will make you feel just like a Jedi. Similarly to how last year’s Spider-Man game nailed the superhero’s mechanics, so too does Fallen Order allow you to jump, fight, and use the force just like a Jedi. It’s one of the beauties of modern video game development, the ability to create game mechanics that are smooth and completely immerse you into the game.
If you’re itching for your next Star Wars video game experience, Fallen Order delivers.
Control
From the very beginning, Control is engaging, intriguing, and definitely confusing. The developers of Alan Wake, Control is a fantastic follow up for those looking for a unique third-person shooter. The story is… well, you just have to see for yourself. It’s artistic, you can move things with your mind, and at one point you fight a refrigerator (Trust me, it’s awesome).
The mystery of the story can often be confusing, but never in a way that is defeating. Rather, Control begs you to dive deeper into this very odd office building that you’re exploring. Control ingrains in you the need to find out just what the hell is going on. And it does not disappoint.
Resident Evil 2
In an era of remakes and reboots, there are clearly some installments that rise above the rest. The remaster of Resident Evil 2 is exactly that. Probably because its source material is so good already, Resident Evil 2 is the perfect blend of nostalgic gameplay with modern graphics, and it works perfectly. Truly, there are some games that just wouldn’t work with modern graphics and mechanics, but Resident Evil 2 seems like it has been waiting for a makeover all of these years.
Plus, few things are more terrifying than running from Mr. X in high definition. Don’t believe me? You’ll just have to play for yourself.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
While for so long it has been Mario in the spotlight, Luigi has really found his niche in Luigi’s Mansion, and the third installment of this game for the Nintendo Switch is likely the best. It’s fun and wacky, but still spooky at times. Luigi’s Mansion 3 leans into the magic of Nintendo. The premise isn’t exactly new, but every floor of this spooky hotel is full of detail that brings the game to life. It’s beautifully animated and will be a welcome addition to your Nintendo Switch arsenal.
The Outer Worlds
It’s like Fallout but in space! What’s not to love! The retro-futuristic aesthetic works so well in this space colony environment, making for a perfectly wacky and eerie setting. Similar to Fallout: New Vegas, The Outer Worlds doesn’t take itself too seriously, allowing players to embrace the quirky adventure that they are on. What the game lacks in depth, it makes up with in just plain fun. The characters may be somewhat flat, but the combat and world you are embracing make up for that.
Super Mario Maker 2
The sequel to 2015’s Super Mario Maker (well, duhh), Super Mario Maker 2 acts as a natural progression to a series with truly endless possibilities. In addition to minor upgrades such as Super Mario 3D World layouts and online and local multiplayer (as well as the recent update featuring Link from The Legend of Zelda), the game’s story mode, filled with insanely creative levels designed by Nintendo employees, acts as a mini Mario game on its own. Whether you fancy yourself a level designer or just feel like playing some endless Mario levels, there’s something here for every platformer fanatic.
Untitled Goose Game
Definitely one of the more interesting games on this list, Untitled Goose Game has a simple premise: you control a goose and you annoy everyone around you. Truly, this is the new genre the video game industry needs. The game quickly took the internet by storm, spawning some of the most memorable memes of 2019. And that’s not easy for me to say. As you sneak around a quaint little town, you’ll steal the keys from a groundskeeper, terrorize a pub, and even lock a young boy in a telephone booth. Every once in a while, it feels good to play the villain.
