2021 has been a big year for video games. Developers have been experimenting with new designs, new equipment, and new ways of storytelling. In addition to evolving in audio and visual design, video games have started implementing smarter storylines, better narrative techniques, and deeper plots.
Games like Kena: Bridge of Spirits, Tales of Arise, Returnal, Little Nightmares 2, and many others have caught the attention of gamers everywhere. The deep, sometimes philosophical plots allow players to empathize with characters like never before, completely submerging into the stories and therefore the gameplay. Ultimately, it was these five games that caught the attention of video game critics everywhere, landing them a prime spot in this year's Game Awards.
5 Psychonauts 2
Released: August 25, 2021 by Double Fine & Xbox Game Studios
Available on: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, macOS, Linux
When people heard there was going to be a sequel to the beloved Psychonauts, they were worried it might go south compared to the flawless predecessor. The original game was magical, weird, and unique, making it difficult for a sequel to become worthy of the name. Ultimately though, Psychonauts 2 rose to the challenge by elevating the narrative and leaving the most unique and special elements of the first title untouched.
The original game was quirky and weird, and the second one pushed these boundaries even further to the delight of fans. Psychonauts 2 doesn't just tell a simple spy story, but manages to combine that with an endearing family tale, amazing character development movements, and even a story about the complexity of the mental states of characters. It goes without saying that the developers did an amazing job bringing this beloved classic back to life.
4 Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy
Released: October 26, 2021, by Eidos Montreal & SQUARE ENIX
Available on: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy managed to become one of the best superhero video games yet. And most of its accomplishments are thanks to the amazing, ambitious narrative style. Players have experienced a journey in which character development was flawless, the script was written to perfection, and the plot was enjoyable and exciting.
The main reason the narrative and writing became such a hit was how the characters and dialogues were scripted. There were a lot of deeply emotional scenes, and people grew to love and empathize with characters that they didn't in the movies. The game puts a whole new spin on the story and the characters, while staying loyal to both the comic and the films. It creates the perfect mixture between what is familiar, and what is an entirely new (and welcome) experience.
3 It Takes Two
Released: March 26, 2021 by Hazelight Studios & EA
Available on: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
The director of It Takes Two has already proven to be one of the best video game storytellers today, but this game is by far the most ambitious project he has taken on. The heartbreaking (and sometimes endearing) story takes players on the emotional journey of a married couple on the brink of divorce.
The narrative is highly ambitious for a game with such a simple style, and complex to a fault. At times the story struggles to make a point, and big ideas fail to come across. Overall, though, the development team did a fantastic job creating a heartwarming, but at the same time tragic, story with one of the most enjoyable gameplay styles this year.
2 Life Is Strange: True Colors
Released: September 10, 2021, by Deck Nine & SQUARE ENIX
Available on: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Google Stadia
The entire Life is Strange series is known for its amazing storytelling style, and True Colors doesn't disappoint in this regard. It's not easy telling a mind-bending story while diving into complex emotional topics. Not only that, but video games also have the obligation to invite players on a personal journey where they can empathize with the main character, and fully submerge into the plot and the gameplay. This game accomplishes all of that.
Life is Strange: True Colors does an absolutely stellar job at telling an exciting story in a unique manner while inviting players to go on their own emotional journey. The protagonist, Alex Chen, has a secret ability, allowing her to see people's emotions through their auras. Thanks to this, the exciting main plot is supported and fleshed out by this emotional insight. All characters are incredibly well-written, and the main story flows effortlessly.
1 Deathloop
Released: September 14, 2021, by Arkane Studios & Bethesda
Available on: PlayStation 5, PC
Set in the 1960s on an island called Blackreef, Deathloop introduces a rather strange and intriguing plot to its audience. On the island are eight targets players must assassinate. Unfortunately, a scientist lived on this island in the 1930's who wanted to gain immortality by creating an infinite time loop. Thanks to this time loop, the aforementioned targets (called the "Visionaries") decided to host a neverending party, knowing that the time loop resets every midnight, therefore nothing can hurt them.
The short introduction should be enough to get anyone hooked on the premise of the game. It's unique, it's complex, it has stakes,, it's exciting, and there's a perfect amount of mystery that ties the entire plot into a neat bow. Thankfully the execution left little to be desired, as the story and the gameplay itself were well-thought-out and crafted.
The Game Awards 2021 was hosted in Microsoft Theater on December 10, 2021, and can be viewed on social platforms: YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, Facebook Live, etc.
