The games of 2010 served up a five-star meal of hot, chocolate-covered awesome. In what may be remembered as "the year of sequels", we’ve had the pleasure of popping games like Mass Effect 2, Fallout: New Vegas, Fable III, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Halo: Reach, WoW Cataclysm, Super Mario Galaxy 2, Splinter Cell: Conviction, and Assassin‘s Creed: Brotherhood into our consoles - giving us more of the games we love. But new franchises like Red Dead Redemption and Alan Wake opened new worlds to us, and hopefully these gems will see sequels of their own in the near future.
But to quote Christopher Walken, "the past is the past and the future is now." A mixture of games delayed into the new year and a healthy amount of titles on schedule to launch in 2011 make for a perfect storm of gaming bliss on the horizon. Reboots, sequels, and new adventures cram each and every month. Stock up on Mountain Dew and your candy of choice, because there’s a storm a comin’, and you better be ready. Here’s a taste of what’s to come, and don’t say we didn’t warn you!
1. Dead Space 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
The original Dead Space thrilled us. Now, Dead Space 2 promises to continue doing what it’s good at (being creepy and awesome) and deliver so much more. Building on the epic story, hero Isaac Clarke carries a life-threatening infection, but that‘s not going to stop him from blasting all sorts of monsters into oblivion. Developer Visceral Games is letting you get your necro on in online multiplayer mode where players take sides as either humans or necromorphs in objective-based games.
2. Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (PS3)
Uncharted 2 is considered by most to be one of the best action games ever. With that being said, we’re keeping our vote until we see Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception. In the third installment of the series, Nathan Drake searches the deserts of Arabia for the “Atlantis of the Sands”. He also learned a few new tricks like stealth tactics and expanded melee and shooting maneuvers. Naughty Dog also beefed up the online mode to capture the cinematography of the main campaign during competitive and co-op play.
3. LittleBigPlanet 2 (PS3)
If you didn’t think that Sackboy could get any more adorable, think again. LittleBigPlanet 2 does what Super Mario Bros. 3 did for Mario. In LBP2, Sackboy uses new tools to help him hurdle and hop through the game. While new toys might not justify all the hype behind the title, the Create mode not only makes LBP2 a contender for game of the year, it may lead to a hundred other blockbuster games. Now using LBP2’s creation tools, players can create entire games, which includes shooters, racers, and even RPGs. Sure, Sackboy hasn’t been around for a while, but he still knows how to swing.
4. Gears of War 3 (Xbox 360)
If you own an Xbox 360, you’ve probably played a Gears of War game at some point. Next fall, Epic Games brings the third and possibly final chapter in the Gears series. Humans are losing, but a new enemy threatens the Locust and Gears. Does Marcus Fenix team up with the pasty-skinned Locust to survive? We’ll have to wait and see, but one thing is for sure: the Gears aren’t going down without a fight. Also, expect a refurbished multiplayer experience including light RPG upgrades and new game modes like Beast (where you play as Locust attacking Gears) and capture the leader.
For a puzzle-based game, the title leaves little to the imagination. In Mask of Miracle, our favorite top hat hero returns to track down a mask that grants wishes. Brain teasers abound in Layton’s fifth adventure (fourth in the West), and that’s just the way we like it. Expect to put on your thinking cap and bad guys with brain power next spring.
6. Crysis 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Just hearing the name “Crysis” gives us chills. Originally a PC supernova, Crysis 2 comes to PC and debuts on consoles this March. This futuristic FPS straps you in the powerful Nanosuit 2 -- bioarmor that can be upgraded to perfect your style of punishment. Set three years after the first game, Crysis 2 puts you in a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, letting you run and gun in this open-world adventure with nothing but you, sweet bioarmor, and a lot of aliens to send to the morgue.
7. Resistance 3 (PS3)
At a glance, Resistance 3 isn’t the sexiest FPS. Like many of its kind, you shoot aliens and fight slim odds. But, playing Resistance is anything but dull. Insomniac Games mixes standard ordinance with goodies like the Bullseye and Mutator to keep things fresh. Also, trademark co-op bullet spraying returns to even the odds against the Chimera as well as multiplayer deathmatch. Get ready to strike a blow against alien scum as a new hero, Joseph Capelli, in September.
8. Mass Effect 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Mass Effect 3 has been kept under wraps and was only teased as late as the 2010 VGA Awards in early December... but what a teaser it was! In a spin-off of traditional ME fare, with Commander Shepard at the helm, this installment shows us what has become of Earth while Shepard is off doing his aggressive negotiations with Reavers and courting women amongst the stars. Earth is in ruins and is under attack by an overwhelming threat that looks a heck of a lot like Reavers. Can an unknown hero help stave off annihilation? Will Shepard swoop in and save the day? We’ll find out this time next year.
9. Batman: Arkham City (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Holy sequel, Batman! After Bruce Wayne survived Joker’s plot to make an army of superhuman freaks in Arkham Asylum, things have gotten worse for the caped crusader. An entire district of Gotham has been given to the city’s most nefarious criminals. No law, no rules, no restraint. With infamous baddies like Two Face, Mr. Freeze, Victor Zsasz, The Riddler, Joker, Hugo Strange, and others headlining in Batman: Arkham City, the Dark Knight has his hands full. But, with whispers of multiplayer support, he might not be alone. Batman: Arkham City releases in September. Ba-Na-Na-Na-Na-Na-NA… Batman!
10. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (Wii)
Though a definitive launch date hasn't been announced yet, if The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword stays on track for its 2011 launch, we'll be on cloud nine. With Wii MotionPlus at the forefront of gameplay, Skyward Sword will leave behind timing-based attacks for precisely angled striking and targeting. As a prequel to Ocarina of Time, this chapter has clown-sized shoes to fill. But, from what we've seen so far, it looks like Skyward Sword will pass with flying colors.
11. Forza Motorsport 4 (Xbox 360)
Been waiting to see if any heavy hitters buy into Kinect? Your wait is over. Forza Motorsport 4 will support both the motion-based technology and the standard Xbox 360 controller. Expect amazing automobiles, blistering racing, and stretching your legs in free-roam mode after taking home the checkered flag.
12. Shift 2 Unleashed (PC, PS3, Wii, Xbox 360)
Alright motor heads... you’ve had it easy racing around in $1M dollar cars and sliding up the ranks with the ease of a greased snake. Come this spring, Shift 2 Unleashed toughens up the track for the Need for Speed franchise with all-new physics that help you feel the impact of all the bumps and rubbin’. Along the bumpy path you’ll be able to choose your own career track on the road to victory and brag about your trophies and highlights online with the incorporation of the Autolog system first featured in 2010's Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit.
13. Portal 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
When it comes to puzzle / platform games, nobody does it like Portal. In Portal 2, good ol’ Chell is awoken after a few hundreds years of deactivation. Unfortunately, GLaDOS is accidentally reactivated and quickly gets back to her old tricks, putting Chell through the paces. Coming in April, Valve’s sequel promises platforming gold with a few new gadgets to mix things up. Also, a new co-op mode lets you bring a friend in on the action.
14. inFAMOUS 2 (PS3)
Sucker Punch Productions is almost ready to unleash inFAMOUS 2, and from what we've seen, this sequel amps the action up to eleven. With a new setting in New Marais, Cole McGrath is on the warpath for more power and answers. A focus on cinematic presentation and a bevy of lighting-based attacks will make taking on the gruesome Corrupted and Militia closer to sensory overload than tourism. And, with the Beast always looming in the dark corners of the world, we can't wait for round two of this epic series.
15. Mortal Kombat (PS3, Xbox 360)
Things got a little weird for a while, with spin-off action / adventure games and Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe. But, like the title suggests, Mortal Kombat returns to its roots, and it’s about time. Fast 2D combat with classic characters and more brutality than ever refocus the immortal franchise. Also, some teaser footage shows Kratos making an appearance in MK for the PlayStation 3 version, and we’re sure he’ll fit right in with the rest of the gang.
16. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
The Elder Scrolls series redefined open-world RPG gameplay. We’ve seen plenty of RPGs since Bethesda launched Oblivion in 2006, and gamers expect a whole lot more in all facets of the gaming experience. But, we’re confident that The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim will be nothing short of epic. Footage and info on Skyrim is scarce, but just the thought of returning to the world of The Elder Scrolls is enough to make the top 30 of 2011.
17. Bulletstorm (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
In short, Bulletstorm takes FPS / action gaming and turns the volume to eleven. Expect a stalwart protagonist, a badass cyborg sidekick, an electric lasso, and ridonculous weaponry. The name of the game is dispatching enemies in the most painful way possible using the environment to earn more points for upgrades.
18. F.E.A.R. 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Originally slated for 2010, F.E.A.R. 3 turns our living rooms into living nightmares in late March. Players can control both Point Man and Paxton Fettel, the two main characters from the F.E.A.R. series. Where does F.E.A.R. 3 differs from other FPS games you ask? How about using Fettel’s ethereal abilities to possess enemies and a co-op mode where you can actually work against your partner to serve your own agenda? Practice that maniacally evil laugh.
19. Dragon Age II (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Dragon Age is back in all its gratuitous glory. Dragon Age II isn’t a continuation of the original. Rather, the story occurs within the timespan of Dragon Age: Origins. If you‘ve finished the first game, your choices and outcomes play a part in the sequel. BioWare revamped the dialogue system, implementing a Mass Effect-style conversation wheel, cinematic flare, and new attacks and spells. You can’t choose your race, but the new tack means a feature like full voiceover treatment for the protagonist, Hawke, (as opposed to Origins’ mute hero) is possible, making Dragon Age II a must-have for RPG gamers.
20. The 3rd Birthday (PSP)
The 3rd Birthday accomplishes three things. One, it breathes life back into the Parasite Eve series, which hasn’t seen a title since 2000. Two, it gives the PSP a major jolt during times of skepticism. And three, its core gameplay mechanics are unlike anything we’ve played in a long time. Not only do players control Aya, the protagonist, and command an A.I. support team, but you can also switch your playable character on the fly during battles. Already out in Japan, The 3rd Birthday hits the U.S. and Europe in early 2011.
21. Killzone 3 (PS3)
Killzone plus jetpacks equals awesome. It’s simple math. Killzone is known for its hardcore FPS gameplay and dark overtones. But, Killzone 3 looks to lighten things up, while keeping you entranced with white-knuckle action. Jetpacks aside, KZ3 will see various new environments, including jungles, artic terrain, and even outer space. We can’t wait to see what kind of trouble Sev and Rico have gotten themselves into, and we only have to wait until February to find out.
22. Deus Ex: Human Revolution (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Deus Ex has been collecting dust since Invisible War launched in 2003. The critically acclaimed cyberpunk FPS / RPG evolved gaming, and Deus Ex: Human Revolution looks like it’s getting ready to make history all over again. Players' classes range from assault to stealth, but with hacking and speech skill trees, the sky is the limit as far as variety goes. Plus, the guy has retractable blades attached to his suit. Who wouldn’t want a piece of that action? Circle March on your calendar. Vive la Révolution!
23. L.A. Noire (PS3, Xbox 360)
Rockstar seems to be making a habit out of using long-forgotten settings. In 2010, Red Dead Redemption, L.A. Noire winds the clock back to the late 1940s. Beyond the jazz music and three-piece suits, Rockstar / Team Bondi used new face-recognition technology to capture minute facial expressions that look eerily lifelike. This cops and robbers thriller hits stores some time in the spring, and with Rockstar’s track record we expect nothing short of perfection. took us to the Wild West; in 2011
24. Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC)
If it manages to live up to half the hype, Star Wars: The Old Republic will be the most expansive and immersive Star Wars game to date. This MMORPG takes place 300 years after the Knights of the Old Republic saga, which gives stalwart KOTOR fans something to cheer about. So far there are eight classes to choose from. Giving you the keys to a spaceship and access to at least 16 different locations across the galaxy, BioWare created a system that allows each player to have a unique story based on his actions. The Old Republic takes flight mid-year. Look out WoW, the force is strong with this one!
25. Twisted Metal (PS3)
Those of you old enough to have played Twisted Metal on PlayStation or PS2 know exactly what you’re in for with the Twisted Metal reboot. Psychopath killers, death-dealing autos that’d make Bigfoot weep, and open-world, destructible environments that make every twist and turn a death trap. The reboot puts the pedal to the metal in March, and the campaign and online play look absolutely fantastic. Players can drive or ride shotgun in cars, motorcycles, construction vehicles, and even helicopters to deal destruction with gritty satisfaction. You better buckle up and check your blind spots. Twisted Metal pulls no punches, missiles, or flaming chainsaws.
26. Rage (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
We’ve had our eyes on Rage for some time now. Developed by id Software under the Bethesda banner, Rage will be the first title launched using the new and amazingly impressive id Tech 5 engine. The graphics certainly up the pixel ante, and a mixture of racing, FPS gameplay, and RPG elements (it’s Bethesda afterall) are too tempting to pass up. Set in a post-apocalyptic setting, you have to mingle with other survivors and carve an existence for yourself in a world that can be best described as the mutated offspring of a Mad Max movie and Fallout. Between Rage hitting stores in September and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Bethesda has its hands full--and we’re all the gladder for it.
27. Homefront (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
Homefront may look like a typical FPS that entrenches you in war, but it feels far different. Things get real when the fight hits your doorstep. Homefront puts the fight in the heart of America, and America is losing. With a disjointed military, you must help resist overpowering Korean military using anything you can. You’re not the unstoppable hero, but rather a freedom fighter doing anything he can to protect not just his homeland, but his home. The war will come pounding on your door this March. Will you answer?
28. SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs (PS3)
Honestly, the PS3 just didn’t feel the same without a numbered SOCOM title under its belt. Fortunately, the wait is almost over. Mixing action / shooter and tactical play, SOCOM 4 puts you in charge of stopping a global war from starting. Using an elite squad, you have six days to work your magic or all hell breaks loose.
29. Marvel vs Capcom 3 (Xbox 360, PS3)
It’s been ten years since Marvel and Capcom tangled, and that’s ten years too long. Marvel vs Capcom 3MvC3 promises to be more accessible to newcomers, as Capcom trimmed the button layout from four attack inputs to three. February can’t come soon enough. boasts many of the features the series is famous for, including a wide and dynamic pool of fighters (32 fighters announced to date), flashy and electric fighting, and team-based matches.
30. Conduit 2 (Wii)
The Conduit gave Wii owners a great FPS game. Conduit 2 will give Wii gamers a solid all-around experience, adding online and local co-op, Wii MotionPlus and PDP Headbanger Headset compatibility, and character customizations. Don’t be fooled by the Wii’s proclivity for casual audiences. Conduit 2 gets locked and loaded February 15, and it should pack enough firepower to compete with shooter juggernauts on other consoles.
As you can imagine, there are many more games in 2011 that should have made it on this list, but you have to make the cut somewhere. Here's a handful of other titles we're also really excited about and that you should keep in mind... and we probably still forgot a few! Feel free to comment below and let us know what games you're looking forwards to playing in 2011.
Honorable Mentions:
DC Universe Online (PC, PS3) - January 2011
Brink (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - January 2011
MindJack (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - January 2011
Dungeons (PC) - February 2011
Test Drive Unlimited 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - February 2011
MotorStorm Apocalypse (PS3) - March 2011
Dynasty Warriors 7 (PS3, Xbox 360) - March 2011
Dissidia 012 [Duodecim] Final Fantasy (PSP, PSN) - March 2011
ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Collection (PS3) - Early 2011
Duke Nukem Forever (PS3, Xbox 360) - Early 2011
Max Payne 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - Q3 2011
Ghost Recon: Future Soldier (PC, PS3, Wii, Xbox 360) - October 2011
New Call of Duty (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - November 2011
SSX: Deadly Descents (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - Q4 2011
The Last Guardian (PS3) - Q4 2011
Resident Evil: Revelations (3DS) - TBA 2011
Shadows of the Damned (PS3, Xbox 360) - TBA 2011
Knights Contract (PS3, Xbox 360) - TBA 2011
True Crime: Hong Kong (PS3, Xbox 360) - TBA 2011
Driver: San Francisco (PC, PS3, Wii, Xbox 360) - TBA 2011
Monster Hunter Freedom 3 (PSP) - TBA 2011
Metal Gear Solid Rising (PS3, Xbox 360) - TBA
Diablo III (PC) - TBA
Battlefield 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) - TBA
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