This past year has been a tough one for the games industry. Sales are down compared to during the pandemic, and gamers are going back out into the world rather than staying stuck in their homes. But there were also plenty of great games.
From grueling games that will test your will to playing to cozy games that’ll make you feel like you’re wrapped in your favorite blanket, 2022 gave us a wide array of titles for every type of player out there.
To that end, I’ve rounded up some of my own favorite games of the year. That’s not to say these are the best around. There are tons out there that are just as good, if not better, than those on this list. Nor is each game perfect, either. I’m looking at you “Pokémon Scarlet” and “Pokémon Violet.”
Still, these are the games, in no particular order, that I think are worth getting to know a little bit better the next time you’re in need of some time in front of your TV.
Elden Ring
‘Elden Ring’ will test your skills and your patience. But persevere, and you’ll find one of the best games of 2022. (Image: Bandai Namco)
One of the biggest hits of 2022, and one that I’ve poured more hours into than I’d like to admit, FromSoftware’s “Elden Ring” is an expansive, punishing title that will test you time and again. Death is as much a part of this game as survival, and each time you go down is a chance to learn from your missteps.
Yes, the first boss, Margit The Fell Omen, is a nightmare by early game standards, but beating him, or slipping past him by skirting the outside of v, is worth the struggle. And once you break out into the broader world of The Lands Between, you’ll be able to explore and grow at your own pace.
As for that optional fight with the boss Melania? It’s as hard as you’ve heard.
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0
‘Warzone 2.0’ brings a slew of big changes to one of the most exciting battle royale games around. (Image: Activision Blizzard)
The second installment of Activision Blizzard’s smash hit online battle royale, “Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0” is every bit as frenetic and fun as 2020’s “Call of Duty: Warzone,” with plenty of welcome changes. From the new map, Al Mazrah, to the ability to carry more items and armor via the game’s backpack mechanic, “Warzone 2.0” is an upgrade in almost every way.
Vehicles are no longer immune from falls, and they’ll run out of gas if you try to drive them around the map all match instead of engaging with other players. Proximity voice chat adds a completely new layer to the game, letting you know when another player is nearby, and weapons feel far more balanced, so newcomers shouldn’t feel too overwhelmed.
Oh, and did I mention it’s free?
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
‘Pokémon Legends: Arceus’ offers an open world experience that fans of the series are sure to enjoy. (Image: Nintendo)
“Pokémon Legends: Arceus” brings …….