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By Preston Fossee ’16 | Staff Writer
10. “Titanfall“
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FPtT4C870c]
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: March 11, 2014
This first-person shooter by Respawn Entertainment was one of the first games available to Xbox One users. This massive online multiplayer game contains both single-player and multiplayer modes, although even the single-player missions can be multiplayer. Unique to this game is the duality of playing as a human “pilot” or the much larger and more powerful titan. The gameplay in this game rivals that of its higher-ranking cousins, but because of its lack of plot in single-player, it finds its way to the 10 spot on this list, which is still a respectable achievement.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFu5qXMuaJU]
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Nov. 4, 2014
Published by Activision, this new installment of the Call of Duty franchise has brought new life to the game with improved mechanics, futuristic gadgetry and a new, immersive campaign to explore. Maintaining Call of Duty’s singleplayer and multiplayer modes, Advanced Warfare stays with the overall layout of Call of Duty, but the content within the game makes it a worthy upgrade. The newly-introduced exo suit, diverse weapons, and a holographic interface within the game are a few of the reasons this Call of Duty shooter found its place on this list.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJqxfkgSUog]
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Nov. 18, 2014
Incorporating many of the successful aspects of its predecessors, Dragon Age: Inquisition provides an immersive action role-playing experience. BioWare, the developers of the game, also studied many other successful games such as Skyrim to produce this great game. The larger environment and ability to play as multiple character types are some of the highlights of this game. The four-player co-op option allows friends to enjoy this game together.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d60v1OErEY]
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Ubisoft’s next installment of the Far Cry series was a major success. Featuring an open-world environment, the massive number of main missions and side quests allow this game an unprecedented single-player experience. But friends can play through the game in a co-op mode too, adding to the appeal. The plot could use some work, such as better storytelling and an improvement in the character interactions. Overall, this game goes above and beyond in many aspects and truly stands out because of them.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX7r61fyltc]
Platforms: Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Sept. 30, 2014
Any video game list is incomplete without a racing game. For those who enjoy driving exotic, luxury or vintage cars, Forza Horizon 2 is the game for you. With its more than 200 drivable cars, enthusiasts can’t go wrong with this game published by Microsoft Studios. Its open-world environment has been seen before in racing games, but is unique and a major plus. Variations in this game exist between the Xbox 360 platform and the Xbox one platform, and they should be researched before deciding to purchase this exhilarating game.
- “Destiny“
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZyQK6kUdWQ]
Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Sept. 9, 2014
Destiny is undoubtedly the most controversial game to make this list. Upon its release, it received mixed reviews because of its lacking storyline and post-campaign content. Developed by Bungie, it was unexpected that these issues would arise after their successful Halo series. However, a series of updates helped aid the problem, adding new story missions and other features. In addition to an adapting player-mindset, Destiny became a much more enjoyable game. It makes it this high on the list because of its amazing gameplay interface, stunning graphics and excellent multiplayer.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6uyuIQYlfY]
Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Improving off of its predecessors, Dark Souls 2, developed by From Software, is much larger, more complex and provides many more hours of gameplay. Featuring dedicated multiplayer servers for PvP (player vs player) and an astoundingly immersive PvE (player vs environment), this game is incredibly rewarding. One critique of Dark Souls was that it was too easy, and Dark Souls 2 improved that with more difficult game situations and a larger campaign to explore.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h0cgmvIrZw]
Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Oct. 7, 2014
Alien: Isolation has all the traits of an immersive game: many missions, unique plot, and great mechanics. But what sets it apart is its unique use of artificial intelligence to create a dynamic environment where the player is “hunted” by an Alien that has invaded their space ship. This alien learns as the player leaves behind clues for it and continues advancing through the campaign. Unlike most games where situations in missions are predetermined, players never know what to expect.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leaYw-7Fgxg]
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Release Date: Sept. 30, 2014 (Xbox) & Nov. 18, 2014 (Playstation)
One of the first games based off Tolkien’s legendarium to receive critical acclaim, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is an interactive and engaging adventure through the world of Middle-earth. Taking place between the stories of “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings”, fans of Tolkien’s books can enjoy this addition to the saga. Some might question whether it is a misrepresentation of Tolkien’s world, but most see it as an excellent addition that pays tribute to many of the characters, places and ideas that Tolkien invented in his books. Regardless of where one stands, this open-world game, with its complex interface and long gameplay, will hold their interest.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU7tXqYplA8]
Platforms: Wii U
Release Date: May 30, 2014
Receiving the strongest review scores in this franchise’s history, this game shines in many areas where other games fail. With its excellent soundtrack, attention to detail and expansive environments, this home-racer deserves the top spot on this list. This game can function at a much higher frame rate than most games which contributes to its smoothness and vivid nature. Its mechanics do not disappoint either, with special anti-gravity walls to provide complex racing environments. Although this may be the only game produced by Nintendo on this list, their capabilities are unparalleled and are at their best in this game.