Dave's Place The internet home of David Hinkle, a guy who plays way too many video games

My 5 best games of 2008

I've been thinking long and hard about what my 5 favorite games for 2008 are. I knew what my favorite game was immediately, and one other game guaranteed itself a spot on the list, but what about the other 3? It's tough to pick, considering just how many games released. But, I'm glad to say that I've finally narrowed my list down to 5 games. Here they are.

5. Gears of War 2

I'm a Gears junkie. So of course it had to be included in my top 5. The characters and writing may be laughable, but the improvements made to the first game, as well as the still very fun gun-and-cover gameplay turned it up that much more. The online is glitchy as all hell, but hopefully a patch will fix that sometime soon. After the first patch in Gears 1, it was smooth sailing for awhile. Oh, and let's not forget Horde.

4. Mirror's Edge

D.I.C.E. broke the mold with parkour-inspired Mirror's Edge and created something incredibly special. I've been through the campaign twice, once with no guns, and it all flows together so wonderfully. Add in the Time Trials and Speed Runs, and you've got a package I've sunk many, many hours in.

3. Civilization Revolution

Who could've known such an involving PC game could be so effectively adapted for consoles? While still retaining the hardcore strategic framework of the PC series, they've managed to cut a lot of corners and really make the game go that much faster, not at the sacrifice of key features. I may not play it as much as I used to (when you play with people who are good, a game can still go for 3 hours), but it's easily recognized as one of this year's best.

2. No More Heroes

A style all its own and some of the most memorable characters I've seen in a long time made Grasshopper Manufacture's No More Heroes one of my favorites this year. It was hard to not give it top honors because, well, it's one of the best games I've ever played in my entire life, but the top game is something I've been waiting many years for.  And the hype leading up to it was completely justified.

1. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

What can I say? I love the Metal Gear Solid series and the fourth game was epic. It was essentially multiple games in one, as each Act brought forth its own unique bag of tricks and surprises. MGS4 had everything; it's a game full of wonderful bits of fan service, improved stealth and shooting, and amazing cutscenes. The second I completed MGS4 (in two sittings, mind you) I knew it was one of the greatest games ever made, and a wonderful way to wrap up the series. If it'll stay wrapped, that is.

Honorable Mention: Fallout 3

I feel bad about Fallout 3. I've made my gripes with it known for all, but with the upcoming changes that Bethesda is planning to roll out, it would seem most of those gripes will be addressed. If it wasn't for those issues, I would've easily stuck it in the top 5. As it stands, though, I wonder if I'll ever go back and play it again.

Be Sociable, Share!

• 

Related posts:

1. Going corrupt in Fable 2
2. Finally! Gears of War 2 title update rolls out
3. Pure White Lover Bizarre Jelly 5 makes me feel very, very awkward
4. EA’s in-game ads: Where’s the line?
5. 5 fun things to do in Fable 2