10 BEST Games of 2019 [First Half]

TL;DR

A review of the top ten video games of 2019's first half.

Transcript

every year we like to stop at the halfway point and take a look back at everything good that we played so today we're talking about 10 of the best games of 2019 so far the first half of the year now keep in mind these are our personal choices the game ranks team got together and really just kind of cobbled together a little compilation of some of t... Read More

Key Insights

• 👏 Mortal Kombat 11 is praised for its exceptional single-player campaign, blending nostalgia and modern gameplay.
• 👶 Kingdom Hearts 3 evokes mixed feelings among fans, balancing nostalgic worlds with new storytelling elements.
• 🔂 Super Mario Maker 2 thrives on player creativity while also offering substantial single-player experiences.
• 😢 Devil May Cry 5 stands out through refined combat and character diversity in gameplay styles, enhancing its overall appeal.
• 👪 A Plague Tale: Innocence exemplifies engaging story-driven gameplay, focusing on themes of survival and family bonds.
• 🤗 Metro Exodus marks a successful shift to semi-open-world gameplay while retaining core series elements.
• 😱 Resident Evil 2's remake adeptly modernizes its predecessor, offering fresh experiences wrapped in engaging survival horror gameplay.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes Mortal Kombat 11 stand out compared to other fighting games?

Mortal Kombat 11 features a compelling single-player campaign that blends nostalgia with new elements, unlike many fighting games which often lack substantial story modes. The game emphasizes a fluid combat system focused on skill with intricate combo mechanics, alongside visually impressive graphics and character customization options, making it one of the best in the genre.

Q: Why did Kingdom Hearts 3 receive mixed reviews despite its inclusion in the top games list?

Kingdom Hearts 3 received mixed reviews primarily due to high expectations from long-time fans, especially regarding its storytelling and character development. Some players felt the narrative did not effectively tie up long-standing plot threads. However, the engaging gameplay, vibrant worlds, and nostalgic callbacks provide an overall fun experience that keeps many players entertained.

Q: What are the key features of Super Mario Maker 2 that appeal to gamers?

Super Mario Maker 2 offers a robust platform for creativity, allowing players to design and share levels. For those who may not be as creative, the game also provides a rich single-player experience through its story mode, which hosts many professionally designed levels. The combination of creation and exploration makes it a versatile and enjoyable experience for different types of players.

Q: How does Devil May Cry 5 revitalize the franchise?

Devil May Cry 5 revitalizes the franchise by refining combat mechanics and introducing diverse character abilities. Each character, from Nero's new tricks to Dante's extensive weapon types, provides unique gameplay styles. The visually stunning graphics and engaging combat system make it a significant entry that appeals to both newcomers and returning fans, boasting high replay value and challenging gameplay.

Q: What elements contribute to the success of Metro Exodus as an open-world game?

Metro Exodus succeeds as an open-world game by maintaining the franchise’s identity while effectively integrating open-world elements that enhance exploration. Players can forage for resources and upgrades, which creates a captivating gameplay loop. The balance between expansive environments and tight-knit storytelling ensures that the game feels coherent while offering memorable and atmospheric experiences.

Q: What themes does A Plague Tale: Innocence explore, and why is it significant?

A Plague Tale: Innocence explores themes of survival, sibling bonds, and the human struggle amidst a plague-ridden world. Its focus on the relationship between the young protagonists adds emotional depth to the gameplay, while navigating through grim environments enhances its horror elements. By successfully balancing storytelling and engaging mechanics, it stands out in the single-player narrative space.

Q: How does Resident Evil 2 remake compare to the original?

The Resident Evil 2 remake elevates the original experience by modernizing graphics and gameplay while retaining the core survival horror essence. It introduces new elements and refined mechanics that enhance exploration and combat. The game also leverages nostalgia by faithfully recreating iconic moments, ensuring that both new players and long-time fans find value in experiencing Raccoon City's horrors in a fresh way.

Q: Why is Days Gone considered divisive among players yet included in the list?

Days Gone is divisive largely due to its long playtime and some gameplay shortcomings, particularly in combat mechanics against human enemies. However, the compelling story, character development of Deacon St. John, and the excitement offered by the zombie hordes create a gripping experience that keeps players engaged. Its open-world design and motorcycle mechanics provide a unique perspective that sparks interest despite its flaws.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video reviews personal favorite games from the first half of 2019, presenting a mix of well-known titles and indie games. Each title is discussed in terms of gameplay, narrative, and overall experience.

• Notably highlighted games include Mortal Kombat 11 for its extensive single-player campaign, Kingdom Hearts 3 for its nostalgic elements, and Devil May Cry 5 for its refined combat mechanics, showcasing the developers' consistency in quality.

• The review also emphasizes single-player titles like A Plague Tale: Innocence and Metro Exodus, celebrating engaging stories and immersive environments, proving that single-player experiences remain valuable in modern gaming.