1.) Must be a game I have played
2.) Must be a game I have enjoyed
3.) Must have been available on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and/or Wii.
4.) Must have released since 2006
Because of #3, no PC exclusives are going to be on this list. Just know you ABSOLUTLEY MUST PLAY CIVILIZATION V. Now without, further ado, 8-Bit Ape's Top 25 Games of the Generation
25.) Batman: Arkham Asylum (released 2009 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Batman: Arkham Asylum surprised everyone. Its pre-release demos looked cool, but no one expected it to be really good. Oh how wrong they were. From developer Rocksteady Studios, Batman Arkham Asylum puts you in the shoes of The Dark Knight as you try to stop the Joker from taking over Arkham Asylum. The story is incredible, and the Scarecrow sections are very memorable. Arkham's now trademark gameplay makes head-to-head combat and stealth exciting and enjoyable. The Riddler challenges are also a blast. Arkham Asylum spawned a series of games and has made developer Rocksteady a top developer in the industry.24.) Wii Sports (released 2006 on Wii)
Okay, I know you probably think I'm crazy because I put Wii Sports ahead of Arkham Asylum. But understand the impact Wii Sports had on gaming. The title that came with every Wii turned out to be Wii's biggest success at launch. This is the only time I feel motion control has been done the way it should have been. I have a lot of memories of playing Wii Sports with family and friends. It's a simple game, but it truly is something incredible. The lasting impact this game has had on gaming is nothing short of legendary. And while its sequel Wii Sports Resort was still fun to play, it didn't have the same excitement of the original.23.) Mass Effect (released 2007 on Xbox 360, 2012 on PS3)
BioWare had already been a successful developer heading into the generation. They were, after all, creators of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. So the incredible quality of Mass Effect didn't really come as a surprise. Mass Effect may not have the strength gameplay wise of its sequels, but it still is a remarkable achievement of storytelling in games. Mass Effect puts you in the roles of Commander Shepard, and you are sent on an incredible adventure to save the galaxy. Along the way you'll meet a fantastic cast of characters, make game-changing decisions, and explore a rich and vast universe. It's truly a remarkable game.22.) Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City (released 2009 on Xbox 360, 2010 on PS3)
The standalone version of Grand Theft Auto IV's episodic content, Episodes from Liberty City features two different stories; The Lost and Damned and The Ballad of Gay Tony. In The Lost and Damned, you play as Johnny Klebitz and Vice President of The Lost Motorcycle Club. You are pit in a vicious turf war with other gangs in the city. In The Ballad of Gay Tony, you are Luis Lopez, bodyguard to nightclub owner Gay Tony and are put into a struggle between your family and friends. Both episodes feature an interesting cast of characters and refined gameplay from the already excellent GTA gameplay. Take notes developers, this is how you do DLC.21.) Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception (released 2011 on PS3)
Naughty Dog played a big part of PS3's journey last generation. How? They gave it a mascot, adventurer Nathan Drake. The Uncharted franchise has been a huge success story for Naughty Dog, and Uncharted 3 once again proves it. Drake is on a journey for the Atlantis of the Sands, an ancient treasure sought out by many before him. Along the way Drake also confronts his deepest fears and personal conflicts. The missions play out like a Hollywood blockbuster, and the second mission is definitely a surprise. The voice acting is top notch, and the multiplayer is the best it's ever been. While it may not be the best in the trilogy, Uncharted 3 is a title you don't want to miss.20.) Bioshock Infinite (released 2013 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
I had not been a big Bioshock guy. It's a very good trilogy, but none did it for me quite like Bioshock Infinite. The story is complex, deep, and thought-provoking. You play Booker DeWitt, and you must find a girl called Elizabeth, who possess a special power. The world of Columbia is stunning, and the characters you meet are, well, interesting to say the least. While the shooting isn't great, the powers are cool. Elizabeth also will help you in battle by finding supplies like health. This game isn't for everyone. But I did enjoy it, and it earns the number 20 spot.19. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag (released 2013 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Assassin's Creed is arguably the biggest new franchise this generation. But Assassin's Creed IV deviates from the formula a bit, and it's for the better. You play Edward Kenway, a pirate in the 18th century. While the story is forgettable, it's the gameplay that will keep you coming back. The open world is massive and filled with uncharted islands to explore. You get a ship, The Jackdaw, and you are free to explore the ocean at your leisure. Battle enemy ships, raid forts, uncover secret treasure, listen to shanties, and much more. Simply put, this is the most fun you will have in Ubisoft's alternate history universe, even if the story is below average.18. Tomb Raider (released 2013 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
It's been a long time since Tomb Raider was a mainstream game franchise, but developer Crystal Dynamics has brought Lara Croft back to the spotlight. Tomb Raider is an intense, emotional, and rewarding look into Lara's origins, as she is trapped on an island and must learn to survive. While the supporting cast is forgettable, Lara shows her vulnerabilities, and her transformation from a scared reporter to a hardened survivor is a memorable one. The combat is also really thought out, and the island is filled with tombs and treasures to discover. If this doesn't make you a Tomb Raider fan, nothing will.17. Mirror's Edge (released 2008 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Mirror's Edge is unlike anything I've ever played. It has some of the most remarkable gameplay I have ever seen. A first person free running game, Mirror's Edge finds the perfect ways to use your free running. This isn't a game about combat (I think you can go the entire game without killing a single person), it's a game about chases and puzzle solving. You'll make breath-taking leaps, run up the side of fences, and have a lot of fun doing it. There is a new one in production right now, and I can't wait to play it. In the meantime, you owe it to yourself to play this one.16. Mario Kart Wii (released 2008 on Wii)
Hands-down the best racing game of the generation, Mario Kart Wii is remarkable because you don't sit in front of your TV with analog sticks and buttons. You use the Wii Remote to steer your vehicle, making it a great party game. This, like Wii Sports, shows us how motion control should be done. And while you can play it alone, why would you? Grab some friends, a couple Wii Remotes, and race! I still turn on my Wii today because this game is just so much fun. I cannot stress how much fun this game is! Go out and buy it!15. XCOM: Enemy Unknown (released 2012 for PS3 and Xbox 360)
I have a big love for strategy games. I don't know why but I've always loved being the emperor or commander in a game. From Civilization creator Firaxis, XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a remake of the classic game UFO: Enemy Unknown and is sure to keep you busy for hours on end. Take control of a commander trying to save the Earth from an Alien invasion. Along the way you'll make tactical decisions to improve your soldiers, your research, and your construction projects. It's extremely addicting and I highly recommend you go out and buy this game.14. Journey (released 2012 for PS3)
Journey isn't really a video game. It's more of an experience. It's more of a, well, journey. You play a nameless hooded figure, wandering for the desert in search of a mountain. You don't attack any enemies and there's no elaborate set pieces. It's just you walking through the desert, occasionally solving a puzzle or two. And you may meet a fellow traveler along the way. The game seamlessly connects you with a random player. Your only means of communication are musical notes. It's an emotional experience that leaves you in awe. You can beat it in an hour and a half, but it will be a memorable one. You would be missing out if you didn't experience this.13. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (released 2011 for PS3 and Xbox 360)
Bethesda was on a roll heading into Skyrim's release. Morrowind, Oblivion, Fallout 3, the anticipation was high for The Elder Scrolls V. And finally it released and unsurprisingly, people loved it. A lot. I ended up putting 80 hours into this game. And for good reason. The character customization is deep and extensive. The quests are rewarding and interesting. And the world is massive and filled with things to do. Fight dragons, raid dungeons, partake in a civil war, go on assassin missions, enroll in the College of Winterhold, raise a family, cause chaos, the possibilities are endless. If you need something to play, Skyrim has you covered.12. Super Mario Galaxy (released 2007 for Wii)
Hands down the greatest Mario game of all time. Sure, you're still trying to save the princess from Bowser, but Super Mario Galaxy has stunning gameplay that will keep you hooked for a long time. It never feels repetitive and it never loses its charm. It brings out joy in all ages, and it never ceases to put a smile on your face. The game also boasts one of the best musical scores ever seen in a video game. Super Mario Galaxy's gameplay is now legendary, and while its sequel improved upon the already fantastic mechanics, it doesn't have the same feeling as the first. A true modern classic.11. Assassin's Creed II (released 2009 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
I stated early how good Assassin's Creed IV is. But the truth is, it doesn't hold a torch to the best one in the series, Assassin's Creed II. Taking place during the height of the renaissance, you play as Ezio Auditore. The story is about revenge, Ezio is trying to track down the people responsible for murdering his father and brother. While it seems simple enough, Assassin's Creed II is filled with memorable characters and moments. Ezio is by far the best Assassin in the franchise (Ubisoft thinks so too, he had three games) and one of the most likeable characters in gaming history. The gameplay is also stellar, you will find yourself shooting sleep darts at enemies across rooftops a lot. If there's any game you must play in this franchise, Assassin's Creed II is it.10. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons (released 2013 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Brothers is 2013's Journey. It shows how a small indie studio with a small budget, no dialogue, and little to no hype can make something truly spectacular. You play as two brothers trying to save their father who is dying from a major illness. The game, like Journey is short (about 2-3 hours). But it contains so many emotional and exciting moments that you can't help but enjoy it. The gameplay is also interesting, one stick to control one brother the other stick controls the other. This makes for some clever puzzles. I don't think this game got the credit it deserves. It's emotional, fun, but most of all worth it. Brothers is an adventure you simply must take.9. LA Noire (released 2011 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
LA Noire is a once in a generation kind of game. Insanely ambitious, LA Noire takes place in 1947 Los Angeles and revolves around Cole Phelps, a war hero who is now working as an honest patrol cop. Eventually you become a detective and work through the four desks; Traffic, Homicide, Vice, and Arson. It is a slow yet rewarding game. You investigate crime scenes looking for evidence, go through intense interrogations where you determine if someone is telling the truth or lying, and chase down fleeing crooks. It is not a game for everyone, but it is really rewarding and really challenging. The interrogations are more intense than some action scenes in other AAA games. The game uses revolutionary new facial technology, and even today it is still better than other games. It is a shame Team Bondi went under after completing this game, but hopefully Rockstar can continue this franchise.8. Grand Theft Auto IV (released 2008 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
The Grand Theft Auto franchise has been a monumental success for Rockstar, so when GTA made the jump to next gen, the anticipation was high. Fortunately, it wasn't in vain. Grand Theft Auto IV takes place in a masterful recreation of New York, called Liberty City. You play as Niko Bellic, an Eastern European hoping to find a better life in America. Unfortunately, his past simply won't let him. Grand Theft Auto IV features a living, breathing city with massive amounts of things to do. GTA 4 also packs in a multiplayer mode, a first for the series, and even today there are still many people playing and loving GTA 4's multiplayer. Sure, it's not perfect, and some people think it is the series' low point, but I put over 100 hours into GTA 4 and it is a game I still love to this day.7. The Walking Dead (released 2012 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Can you imagine a point and click game being higher than a Grand Theft Auto game? Well if it's The Walking Dead, you make a pretty good argument. From developer Telltale Games, already known for their Back to the Future series, The Walking Dead puts you in the shoes of Lee Everett during the zombie apocalypse. You meet Clementine, a little girl who you decide to protect from the Walkers. Along the way you will meet an exceptional cast of characters, all expertly voice acted, and must make tough decisions that will have dire consequences on the story. Your choices matter in The Walking Dead, and some of them are incredibly emotional. Sure the gameplay may be simple and may throw off hardcore FPS fans, but The Walking Dead is a game that you absolutely must play.6. Mass Effect 2 (released 2010 on Xbox 360, 2011 on PS3)
I hold Mass Effect 2 to be the greatest science fiction video game ever. And anyone who has played it knows why. BioWare took everything great about the original Mass Effect and turned it up to 11. Human colonies are disappearing, and you, Commander Shepherd, must find out why. The plot unfolds to be a plan by the Reapers to take over the galaxy. You must make tough choices that impact the fate of the galaxy. The excellent BioWare dialogue wheel returns, and engaging with characters is as interesting as ever. The game has real tension throughout and builds up to a "Suicide Mission", quite possibly the greatest finale in gaming history. While it is a shame that there are less exploration options than the first, Mass Effect 2 is a game that will be treasured forever, and you should absolutely play it.5. Batman: Arkham City (released 2011 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
Why do people love Spider Man 2 The Game? Because it puts you in an open world environment and makes you truly feel like Spider Man. Arkham City does that for Batman, and boy does it do it well. Arkham City feels 10 times better than its predecessor, and it is one heck of a ride. Mayor Quincy Sharp has zoned off part of Gotham City to house criminals, and has put Hugo Strange in charge. Inside Arkham City, a massive turf war has begun between The Penguin, Two-Face, and the Joker. Batman now must discover the mysteries of Arkham City and Hugo Strange before it's too late. Arkham City has an exciting narrative that will be hard to put down. The excellent free flow combat system from Arkham Asylum returns here, as well as numerous other improvements. There are lots of side missions to undertake, and the Riddler challenges are better than ever. Arkham City is the best superhero game of all time, and I can't wait to see Rocksteady's final installment in the franchise; Arkham Knight.4. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (released 2009 on PS3)
There's never a dull moment in Uncharted 2. Your journey as Nathan Drake to find the lost city of Shambhala is exciting and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It feels like one epic action movie, and you are the star. The narrative is tense and the characters are all memorable. What Uncharted: Drake's Fortune did wrong Among Thieves fixes it, and what Drake's Fortune did right Among Thieves perfects it. Uncharted 2 also boasts a multiplayer mode, and it is anything but tacked on. It offers incredible rewards, great gameplay, and just a good time. This title propelled Naughty Dog to the top of the industry, winning numerous Game of the Year awards. It also is the game that came along with the PS3's resurgence in the generation. And, on top of that, is the number four best game of the generation.3. Grand Theft Auto V (released 2013 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
I have never seen a game hyped as much as Grand Theft Auto V was. With each new trailer or screenshot gamers investigated every fine eyed detail. So when GTA 5 released last September it didn't meet expectations. It surpassed all of them. GTA 5 introduces three protagonists for the first time; Michael, Trevor, and Franklin. Together they must pull off a series of heists to make it big in the Los Angeles-inspired city of Los Santos. The story is humorous and thrilling, with expert voice acting and sound direction. The gameplay is also fantastic. The character switching is genius, gunplay and driving have been significantly improved, and the world is alive and filled with things to do. Grand Theft Auto V is the definition of AAA. GTA 5 is the best one in the series, one of the best open world games ever made, and a true send-off for the generation.2. Red Dead Redemption (released 2010 on PS3 and Xbox 360)
While GTA V is one of Rockstar's best games, Red Dead Redemption bests them all. It is 1911, you play John Marston in a dying west. He must track down his former gang members in order to save his family. This game made me a western fan. I love the incredible and emotional story and the characters you meet along the way. Gameplay is also fun, and riding on a horse is entertainment unto itself. The open world is massive and filled with things to do. Herd cattle, get into fights in saloons, meet strangers, do random encounters, play poker, hunt, the possibilities are endless. The multiplayer is also excellent. This is in my opinion, the greatest open world game ever made. You are seriously missing out if you don't play this masterpiece.And 8-Bit Ape's Game of the Generation is...
1. The Last of Us (released 2013 on PS3)
I debated this one for a long time with Red Dead Redemption. But I then realized why The Last of Us is truly the Game of the Generation. Sure the post-apocalyptic survival story is better than most Oscar-winning movies, and the characters (especially Joel and Ellie) are entertaining. The gameplay is also hectic and intense, with emphasis on stealth rather than guns blazing. And the graphics are pretty. But what sets The Last of Us apart from the rest is because it's a game-changer. It is the perfect marriage between story and gameplay. It's really hard to put into words how much of an impact the game has had on me and the industry as a whole. The Last of Us isn't an interactive movie, or a meager pastime, it's what makes video games video games. Movies are something that you watch, Music is something you listen to, and Books are something you read. They all though, are not interactive, you just watch/listen/read what happens. Games are the perfect blend of all that and are interactive. The Last of Us, more than anything, shows us that. Naughty Dog should be applauded for changing the industry forever, and the way games are viewed. So it is fitting that their crown jewel, The Last of Us, is the Game of the Generation.Of course this was all just my opinion. What do you think? Come up with your own list in the comments below!
And, as always, thanks for visiting 8-Bit Ape.
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