In this article, we’ll list the five best video games of 2010 according to various video game magazines.
From the strategic depth of Civilization V to the cinematic brilliance of God of War III, the emotionally charged narrative of Heavy Rain, the galaxy-spanning epic of Mass Effect 2, and the vast open-world adventure of Red Dead Redemption, each game encapsulates the essence of a defining era in gaming.
Civilization V
Platform: PC, OS X, Linux
Metacritic rating: 90/100
Sid Meier’s Civilization V, released in 2010, stands as a monumental achievement in the turn-based strategy genre, shaping the way players engage with the complexities of building and leading civilizations. Developed by Firaxis Games, Civilization V took the already venerable franchise to new heights with its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visual design. One of the most notable departures from its predecessors was the introduction of a hexagonal grid system, replacing the traditional square tiles. This seemingly simple change had profound implications for strategic gameplay, offering more nuanced movement and positioning for units, adding layers of depth to the tactical aspects of the game.
At its core, Civilization V challenged players to guide their chosen civilization from the ancient era to the modern age, navigating through technological advancements, diplomatic intricacies, and military conquests. The game presented an intricate web of choices, from deciding on city locations and resource management to establishing diplomatic relations with other civilizations. Diplomacy, in particular, received a significant overhaul, emphasizing relationships and alliances, introducing city-states, and introducing a more dynamic and realistic approach to international affairs.
Visually, Civilization V was a feast for the eyes. The art style, while not hyper-realistic, was vibrant and stylized, giving each civilization a distinct visual identity. The cities evolved visibly as they progressed through different eras, reflecting the technological advancements made by the player. The attention to detail in the graphics extended to the world map, showcasing diverse landscapes and terrains, from sprawling deserts to lush forests.
Multiplayer functionality was another area where Civilization V made strides. The game provided a robust online platform that allowed players to engage in epic battles of wits and strategy with friends or strangers from around the world. The turn-based nature of the game made it conducive to asynchronous multiplayer, enabling players to take their turns at their own pace, accommodating various playstyles and time commitments.
Civilization V also introduced the concept of “City-States,” independent entities on the world map that players could interact with diplomatically or conquer militarily. These city-states added an additional layer of strategy, as players could choose to befriend them for various benefits or dominate them to assert dominance. The dynamic nature of these interactions added depth and unpredictability to the overall gaming experience.
The game’s expansion packs, such as Gods & Kings and Brave New World, further enriched the gameplay with new civilizations, leaders, and mechanics. The expansions addressed some of the community’s feedback, refining and expanding upon the core experience. Civilization V’s longevity can be attributed, in part, to the active modding community that contributed a myriad of user-generated content, ranging from historical scenarios to gameplay tweaks.
In conclusion, Civilization V marked a significant milestone in the strategy gaming landscape. Its blend of intricate gameplay mechanics, captivating visuals, and a deep understanding of historical and geopolitical dynamics elevated it to the status of a timeless classic. Whether engaging in epic battles against AI opponents, forging alliances with other leaders, or achieving victory through cultural, scientific, or military means, Civilization V provided players with a sandbox of possibilities, fostering a sense of exploration and discovery that has solidified its place in the annals of gaming history.
God of War III
Platform: PS3, PS4
Metacritic rating: 92/100 (PS3), 81/100 (PS4)
God of War III, unleashed in 2010 by Santa Monica Studio, brought the epic tale of Kratos, the Spartan warrior seeking vengeance against the gods of Olympus, to a thunderous and visually spectacular conclusion. As the final installment of the original trilogy, God of War III surpassed its predecessors in scale, narrative intensity, and technical prowess. The game opened with an audacious spectacle, as Kratos scaled Mount Olympus atop the back of the Titan Gaia, setting the tone for the relentless action and grandeur that would follow.
The narrative of God of War III seamlessly continued Kratos’ blood-soaked journey, seamlessly blending Greek mythology with a relentless pursuit of revenge. The game masterfully conveyed the sheer scale of Kratos’ vendetta, as he battled iconic figures from Greek mythology, including Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades. The storytelling transcended mere hack-and-slash conventions, presenting Kratos as a complex and tormented character driven by both rage and a tragic past. The game delved deeper into Kratos’ psyche, revealing the consequences of his insatiable thirst for vengeance and the toll it took on those around him.
Graphically, God of War III was a visual marvel, pushing the PlayStation 3 hardware to its limits. The character models, environments, and epic set pieces were meticulously crafted, showcasing a level of detail and fluidity that was unprecedented at the time. The game seamlessly transitioned between brutal combat sequences and cinematic storytelling, blurring the lines between gameplay and cutscenes in a way that immersed players in a relentless and visually stunning experience.
The combat system, a hallmark of the God of War series, reached its zenith in God of War III. Kratos’ moves were more fluid and devastating than ever, with a variety of weapons and magical abilities at his disposal. The game maintained its signature combo-driven combat style while introducing new weapons like the Cestus, adding layers of strategy to the carnage. The boss battles, a series highlight, were colossal in scale and required players to employ a mix of skill, timing, and quick reflexes to emerge victorious.
Beyond its visceral combat, God of War III showcased a level of environmental puzzle-solving that complemented the intense action sequences. The game’s level design ingeniously integrated puzzles into the fabric of the world, demanding players to engage both their minds and reflexes. These puzzles served as a testament to the game’s thoughtful game design, offering a respite from the relentless action while maintaining a seamless flow.
The musical score, composed by Gerard Marino, Mike Reagan, and Cris Velasco, heightened the emotional impact of God of War III. The grand orchestral compositions underscored the epic nature of Kratos’ journey, enhancing the emotional weight of key moments. From the haunting melodies that accompanied moments of introspection to the thunderous orchestration that fueled the ferocious battles, the soundtrack became an integral part of the game’s immersive experience.
In conclusion, God of War III solidified itself as a magnum opus in the action-adventure genre. It seamlessly blended cinematic storytelling, jaw-dropping visuals, and visceral combat into an unforgettable gaming experience. Kratos’ journey reached a crescendo, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. God of War III not only showcased the capabilities of the PlayStation 3 but also demonstrated how storytelling and gameplay could be harmoniously intertwined to create an epic and emotionally resonant gaming experience.
Heavy Rain
Platform: PS3, PS4, PC
Metacritic rating: 87/100(PS3), 78/100(PS4), 75/100 (PC)
Heavy Rain, released in 2010 and developed by Quantic Dream, emerged as a groundbreaking title that transcended traditional gaming conventions, delivering an interactive and emotionally charged narrative experience. Directed by David Cage, the game redefined the interactive drama genre, focusing on mature themes, intricate storytelling, and player-driven choices that significantly impacted the unfolding narrative. Set in a gloomy and rain-soaked city, the game follows four protagonists connected by the hunt for the Origami Killer, a serial murderer who preys on children.
The most distinctive feature of Heavy Rain was its emphasis on player choice and consequence. The narrative unfolded based on the decisions made by the player, influencing character relationships, story arcs, and ultimately determining the fate of the characters. This branching narrative structure provided an unparalleled level of player agency, creating a sense of personal investment and responsibility for the outcomes of the characters’ journeys.
The game leveraged a unique control scheme that focused on context-sensitive actions, transforming mundane tasks into emotionally charged sequences. From pouring a glass of orange juice to engaging in intense physical confrontations, players manipulated the controller in ways that mimicked real-world actions, immersing them in the characters’ experiences. This innovative control system blurred the lines between traditional gameplay and cinematic storytelling, enhancing the overall sense of immersion.
Visually, Heavy Rain presented a cinematic experience with a keen attention to detail. The realistic character models, coupled with advanced motion-capture technology, conveyed a range of emotions that contributed to the game’s narrative depth. The rain-soaked environments and moody atmospheres created a palpable sense of tension, enhancing the psychological thriller elements of the storyline.
The game’s narrative was driven by its characters, each with their own motivations and flaws. The player assumed control of Ethan Mars, a father desperate to save his kidnapped son; Norman Jayden, an FBI profiler investigating the Origami Killer case; Scott Shelby, a private detective; and Madison Paige, a journalist entangled in the mystery. The intersecting perspectives provided a multifaceted exploration of the overarching narrative, allowing players to piece together the mystery from different angles.
One of Heavy Rain’s most memorable aspects was its ability to evoke genuine emotions. The game tackled mature themes, including loss, guilt, and the lengths one would go to protect loved ones. The emotional weight of decisions, coupled with the unpredictable nature of the narrative, created an immersive experience that resonated with players on a personal level. The game’s willingness to explore darker and more complex subject matter distinguished it from conventional video game storytelling.
Beyond its narrative strengths, Heavy Rain received acclaim for its production values, including a haunting musical score by composer Normand Corbeil. The music seamlessly complemented the evolving emotions of the narrative, enhancing the overall atmospheric experience.
In conclusion, Heavy Rain stands as a seminal work in the realm of interactive storytelling. Its innovative approach to player choice, emotionally charged narrative, and cinematic presentation demonstrated the potential for video games to deliver mature and thought-provoking experiences. By pushing the boundaries of what interactive narratives could achieve, Heavy Rain left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, influencing subsequent titles that aspired to blend gripping storytelling with player agency.
Mass Effect 2
Platform: PC, Xbox 360, PS3
Metacritic rating 94/100 (PC), 96/100 (X360), 94/100 (PS3)
Mass Effect 2, released in 2010 by BioWare, stands as a defining masterpiece in the realm of action role-playing games, seamlessly blending an epic space opera narrative with compelling characters, strategic gameplay, and a vast, immersive universe. The game picked up the story of Commander Shepard, a human hero navigating a galaxy on the brink of annihilation due to the impending threat of the enigmatic Collectors. The narrative commenced with Shepard’s resurrection by the human-survivalist organization Cerberus, setting the stage for a mission to assemble a diverse team of specialists and confront the looming danger.
Central to Mass Effect 2’s success was its emphasis on character development and relationships. The game introduced a compelling cast of companions, each with their own backstories, motivations, and unique abilities. Shepard’s interactions with these characters extended beyond mere dialogue exchanges, influencing the loyalty of the team members and impacting the game’s outcome. The loyalty missions, personalized quests for each character, delved into their pasts, forging deeper connections between players and the crew of the Normandy, the spaceship at the heart of the adventure.
The narrative structure of Mass Effect 2 was dynamic, with a strong focus on consequential decision-making. The choices made by players throughout the game affected not only the fates of individual characters but also the overall success of the suicide mission, the high-stakes climax that served as the culmination of Shepard’s quest. The sense of agency granted to players in shaping the narrative fostered a deep sense of investment, as their decisions reverberated throughout the game’s complex web of relationships and alliances.
The gameplay underwent significant improvements from the first Mass Effect installment. The combat mechanics were refined, featuring more responsive controls, a revamped cover system, and a diverse array of weapons and biotic powers. The tactical depth of combat engagements demanded strategic thinking, as players orchestrated the abilities of their squad members to overcome formidable enemies. The sense of urgency during the suicide mission further heightened the stakes, as any missteps or unpreparedness could lead to the loss of beloved characters.
Mass Effect 2 also excelled in world-building, presenting a meticulously crafted galaxy teeming with diverse species, cultures, and political intrigue. The game’s attention to detail extended to its environments, each with its own distinct visual identity and lore. Exploring the galaxy aboard the Normandy, players encountered a myriad of planets, space stations, and celestial phenomena, contributing to a sense of epic scope and discovery.
The visual presentation of Mass Effect 2 was nothing short of spectacular. The character models, environments, and cinematic sequences demonstrated a level of graphical fidelity that was groundbreaking at the time. The game’s art direction, characterized by its futuristic aesthetic and attention to atmospheric details, elevated the overall immersive experience.
The musical score, composed by Jack Wall and Sam Hulick, contributed significantly to the game’s emotional impact. The sweeping orchestral arrangements and thematic motifs heightened the epic nature of Shepard’s journey, complementing the narrative beats and character moments with a sense of gravitas.
In conclusion, Mass Effect 2 represents a pinnacle achievement in the RPG genre, combining a gripping narrative, well-developed characters, strategic gameplay, and a meticulously crafted universe. The game’s legacy endures not only for its technical accomplishments but also for its ability to deliver an emotionally resonant experience that transcends the confines of traditional gaming. Mass Effect 2 stands as a testament to BioWare’s storytelling prowess and its ability to create a gaming experience that remains etched in the memories of players long after the credits roll.
Red Dead Redemption
Platform: PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch
Metacritic rating: 83/100(NS), 78/100(PS4)
Red Dead Redemption, the western-themed masterpiece released by Rockstar Games in 2010, stands as an iconic open-world adventure that seamlessly blends a gripping narrative with expansive gameplay set against the backdrop of the American frontier. Developed by Rockstar San Diego, the game transported players to the dying days of the Wild West, offering a vast and meticulously crafted open world that exuded authenticity. At its core, Red Dead Redemption told the tale of John Marston, a former outlaw forced by the government to hunt down his former gang members in exchange for the safety of his family.
One of the game’s most notable strengths lies in its narrative depth and character development. John Marston emerged as a complex protagonist, torn between his violent past and the desire for redemption. The characters he encountered, from the enigmatic Dutch van der Linde to the strong-willed Bonnie MacFarlane, each contributed to a rich tapestry of storytelling that explored themes of loyalty, justice, and the changing tides of the West. The narrative unfolded with cinematic flair, punctuated by memorable set pieces and unexpected twists that kept players invested in Marston’s journey.
The open-world design of Red Dead Redemption was revolutionary for its time, presenting players with a vast and immersive landscape known as the American frontier. From the dusty towns of New Austin to the snowy expanses of the Tall Trees, the game’s environments captured the diverse geography of the Wild West. The dynamic ecosystem, complete with wildlife and changing weather patterns, added a layer of realism rarely seen in open-world games.
The game’s attention to detail extended to its depiction of a society in transition. As players explored the frontier, they encountered bustling towns, struggling homesteads, and the encroachment of modernity in the form of trains and telegraph lines. This evolving backdrop not only served as a visual feast but also reflected the historical narrative of a world on the brink of change, mirroring the encroachment of civilization on the untamed wilderness.
Red Dead Redemption’s gameplay seamlessly blended exploration, gunfights, and horseback riding into a cohesive and engaging experience. The Dead Eye targeting system, allowing players to slow down time during shootouts, became an iconic feature, adding a strategic layer to gunfights. The bond between the player and their trusty steed, whether galloping across the plains or navigating treacherous terrain, was a testament to the game’s attention to the minutiae of the Wild West experience.
The side activities and challenges within the game, ranging from poker games in saloons to hunting legendary animals, offered a rich array of diversions that contributed to the sense of immersion. The ambient storytelling within these activities added depth to the world, with each encounter contributing to the overall narrative tapestry.
Red Dead Redemption also boasted a haunting and evocative musical score composed by Bill Elm and Woody Jackson. The sweeping orchestral arrangements and twangy guitar melodies perfectly complemented the game’s tone and atmosphere, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments.
In conclusion, Red Dead Redemption is a tour de force that transcends the gaming medium, delivering an unforgettable narrative set against the vast and evocative backdrop of the American frontier. Its meticulous attention to detail, memorable characters, and immersive open-world design set a new standard for the industry. Red Dead Redemption remains a landmark title, celebrated not only for its technical achievements but for its ability to evoke a sense of time and place, making it a timeless classic in the pantheon of video game storytelling.
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Conclusion
2010 was an epic year for video gaming and here we presented the top 5 games in our opinion. Honorable mentions also include Limbo, Rock Band 3, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, Super Mario Galaxy 2, Super Meat Boy, and Xenoblade Chronicles.