With The Game Awards approaching, GameSpot staff have offered one-sentence descriptions of games they consider worthy of Game of the Year recognition, aiming to highlight both well-known titles and smaller, potentially overlooked gems. The selections span a variety of platforms and genres, reflecting the diverse landscape of games released throughout the year.
For those interested in job simulators, Mark Delaney recommends Retro Rewind: Video Store Simulator on PC, noting its significant update that includes video games in its inventory. Big Walk on PC, PS5, and Switch offers a puzzle-filled island adventure for up to 11 players. In a style reminiscent of Remedy's unique approach, Control Resonant on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5 is described as a potential new Infamous. Early access title Far Far West on PC is presented as a Western-themed take on the extraction shooter genre, developed by the team behind Pumpkin Jack. Bungie's extraction shooter, Marathon, is praised for its satisfying gameplay, art direction, and worldbuilding across PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.
Jessica Cogswell champions Fields of Mistria on PC as a farming life-sim superior to Stardew Valley, citing its '80s to '90s shōjo anime aesthetic, romance options, and gameplay loop. The Blood of Dawnwalker on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5 is likened to The Witcher but with improved combat, time management, and vampire elements. Paralives on PC, an early access life-sim, is noted as a strong contender for The Sims with impressive gameplay and worldbuilding. Meccha Chameleon on PC and Switch is described as a joyful and creatively rewarding "friendslop" title. 007: First Light on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5 is recommended as a perfectly paced action game that makes players feel like a "total badass."
Darryn Bonthuys highlights Denshattack on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Switch as a cel-shaded, high-energy on-rails adventure involving train-kicking and taking down corporations. Onimusha: Way of the Sword on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Switch is recommended for its combat system and challenging boss encounters. Vampire Crawlers on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Switch 2, Switch, and Mobile, a follow-up to Vampire Survivors, is called a "deliciously entertaining" combo-powered dungeon crawler.
Chris Pereira suggests Forbidden Solitaire on PC for its '90s-style presentation of a creepy, demonic card game. Esoteric Ebb on PC is a text-based RPG adventure set in a fantasy world, noted for its "I can't believe they thought to account for that decision I might make" moments. Over the Hill on PC is a relaxing exploration game that balances engaging driving mechanics with chill vibes. Slay the Spire 2 (early access) on PC expands on the original deckbuilding roguelite with new content and a co-op mode.
Steve Watts points to Mina the Hollower on PC and consoles as a retro-style masterpiece blending The Legend of Zelda's Game Boy Color aesthetic with soulslike elements. Pokemon Pokopia on Switch offers a cozy experience with building mechanics where Pokemon are neighbors. Star Wars: Galactic Racer on PC and consoles is an arcade racer with a roguelite structure. Castlevania: Belmont's Curse on PC and consoles is lauded for its combat and complex tarot card system. Blood Dungeon on PC and consoles is a survivorslike with a platforming twist.
Gabe Gurwin recommends Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 on PC and consoles as a more varied boomer-shooter sequel with intense action. Nioh 3 on PC and PS5 is described as an improved version of Nioh 2 with open-ended environments and a deep combat system. Saros on PS5 is noted for enhancing Returnal's bullet-hell combat. Star Wars Zero Company on PC and consoles is an XCOM-like game featuring the Force and lightsabers. Ashley Oh suggests Mouse: P.I. For Hire on PC and consoles, a first-person shooter with a '30s cartoon noir style, inventive animations, and a jazzy soundtrack.