Top Ten of 2005

This was a very difficult list to put together this year due to the sheer amount of stellar titles available. The DS hit its stride early on and shows no sign of letting up and we saw all sorts of original titles from the various consoles. When ordering this best of list, I tried to look at each game as a whole for what it did for the industry and yet at the same time not ignore the importance of my own personal tastes. Hopefully you will recognize this as fair and just as well as entertaining. So, without further ado, I present to you my "Best of 2005." May it guide you on your journey of balancing out your gaming diet.

10.Killer 7 - Gamecube
Surrealism of the senses would be a good way to describe this on-rails shooter, because well, there aren't many words that can paint the picture of one of the most unique games to ever grace the Gamecube. You have to experience it for yourself to truly appreciate the beautiful art, whacked out conspiracy story, and very focused gameplay. I say focused, because the game forces the player to choose the characters' different paths in an attempt to create the illusion that the game character is always in control. That's no easy task since each character comes from the same place - the mind of Harman Smith. Smith has seven very deadly personalities who take on the role of assassins throughout the game. As the player, you have control of each of the "killer 7" via a television (proof the story is whacked) and each has their own unique ability to utilize. These abilities come in handy when trying to solve various puzzles in the very vibrantly colored world. The on-rails gameplay may be a turn off for some with the marriage of pressing the analog stick to choose your desired direction and the A button to select the path, but I thought it captured the unique feeling of the game just as each of the 7 personalities fit into the odd mind of Harman Smith. I'm not sure the developers ever intended for us to fully understand the meaning of the story in a cognitive way, hence my use of the term "surreal," however if you are looking for something that breaks the common game design mold, you should check out Killer 7. Even if the game is ultimately not for you, it is an experience you won't soon forget.


9. Kirby Canvas Curse - DS
What Yoshi Touch & Go touched on with pushing the boundaries of platform gaming with stylus control, Kirby Canvas Curse took and sprinted to the finish line with it. Canvas Curse gives new meaning to platform gaming in a way I never thought imaginable. Imagine my surprise when I realized I was manipulating the world around Kirby instead of the familiar way I was used to playing a game - manipulating the game character itself to meet the level goals. With its touch screen control, you will alter the environment in a way that refreshes the whole genre. Drawing colorful lines to protect Kirby from spikes or lava pits is only the tip of the innovative gameplay at work here. Kirby's trademark enemy-stealing ability is present as well, so fans of the little pink puffball will ultimately feel at home as the touch screen aspects become second nature. I tapped into platforming skills I never even knew I had, and so will you.


8. Digital Devil Saga 1 & 2 - PS2
What can I say about Digital Devil Saga that I haven't already said? Probably not much considering I like to compliment the Shin Megami Tensei games every chance I get. However, I will touch on one specific aspect since there seems to be a running theme to my list. If you haven't figured it out by number one, don't worry, I offer a full explanation.

RPG's have always had a close relationship with its players. Not only do we invest many hours into the characters and story but we are also required to constantly access menus for inventory purposes and also for manual combat control. Coupled with DDS's knack for making such extensive use of the elements, the immersion that RPG's control offers its gamers keeps us constantly thinking and contemplating the outcome. Both visually and intellectually compelling, Digital Devil Saga offers a different experience than most RPG's. Shin Megami Tensei games pride themselves on apocalyptic and demonic storytelling and Digital Devil Saga 1 & 2 are no different. For example, in DDS, your character transforms into a demon when in combat. It plays a bigger role than simply becoming a demon for the sake of becoming a demon, as the main reason for the transformation delves deep into an inner need to feed the demon you harbor by devouring your enemies. It's definitely not your average light hearted RPG, but that is what helps set DDS apart. It makes no apologies for requiring you to constantly level-up, or for demanding the utmost care in deciding how to use the elements to your advantage. Make no mistake, DDS will chew you up and spit you out if you aren't careful when traversing its maze like dungeons, but the overall feeling and story are both so well shaped that you will be glad to experience it.


7. Condemned: Criminal Origins - Xbox 360
Condemned represents something the Xbox 360 sorely needs more of: original games. The fact that it's actually a solid title helps give merit to my case. I've given the game its dues in my [url=http://www.dpadjunkies.com/index.php?module=prodreviews&func=showcontent&id=63]review[/url], but I'll touch on a few aspects that make Condemned a worth title. You play as Ethan Thomas, an FBI agent whose day goes from bad to worse when he is implemented in the murder of two police officers. To prove your innocence, you'll have to put your detective skills to the test. Lucky for you, there are various and neat forensic tools at your disposal to aid in your search for clues. It's easily the coolest feature in the game and the interaction helps to immerse you into Ethan's crazy world. Along the way, you'll also cross paths with all sorts of deranged lunatics who want to inflict damage on you with whatever object they can find. With limited ammo, your melee combat skills will be put to the test. Condemned isn't overly difficult and it's not long at all. So, do yourself a favor and experience this original property. Just watch out for those pesky and creepy mannequins.


6. Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks - Xbox
I would wager that not many people expected much from another Mortal Kombat action game after its previous embarrassing attempts, but the effort paid off. Even as a huge Mortal Kombat fan, I was crossing my fingers with this one. Shaolin Monks immediately impresses with its butter smooth combat in a 3D world. Its multi-directional fighting motions set a new standard in the world of 3D. The story takes place during the time of Mortal Kombat II and includes many familiar faces - some alibis, some foes. There is one brilliant battle between the player and a highly popular MK character that truly shines as one of the most memorable boss fights in recent history. The interaction between the two fighters during this battle made me realize how great a game Shaolin Monks is. The amount of control the game allows the player makes for an epic battle. Fan service at its finest.


5. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow - DS
Dawn of Sorrow could have easily been my number one game for 2005 because I love the game so much and it does everything right, however, as you read on, you will see that originality ultimately wins out this year. Continuing the Symphony of the Night graphical style and exploration aspect, DoS is actually the first in the Castlevania series to be a direct sequel. It picks up right after Soma Cruz destroys Dracula in Aria of Sorrow. It's apparent that Iga still believes in his product, because his style and story still continue to draw in the player. The graphics look absolutely gorgeous on the DS and do their part in creating the illusion of the world of Castlevania. The addition of the touch screen control to draw magic symbols to "seal" away bosses is a nice addition to the series. It's a simple element that does not detract from the familiar Castlevania mold. The soul system has been improved since Aria of Sorrow, however the biggest bonus to DoS is Julius Mode. This mode could have been a stand alone game, as it's that good. It doesn't feel tacked on like so many other games' bonus features sometimes do. Plus, it fully takes advantage of the existing castle map and enemies while adding three characters (Julius Belmont, Alucard, and Yoko) with distinct abilities who can be switched on the fly. As you can imagine, it is quite like having two full length games in one package. Julius Mode alone is worth the price of admission. No gamer will be disappointed with this very full package.


4. Resident Evil 4 - Gamecube
Of all the games on my list, none gave me more trouble placing than Resident Evil 4. The odd thing is I can't give a definitive answer as to why. It didn't immediately impress me like it did the rest of the gaming world and I still can't help but feel somewhat detracted from the experience, yet RE4 does so many things right and corrects so many past flaws that it would be a great misfortune to overlook this game. RE4 takes the series in a much needed updated direction that it makes it difficult to describe in fear of losing the famous Resident Evil feeling that the series is known for. Rest assured, this fourth installment still feels like Resident Evil but with a fresh coat of paint, an improved inventory system, and smoother controls than you have ever witnessed. I feel RE4 is a leap in the right direction for all of those reasons with the most important being control. It's obvious the developers knew this fourth game had to mature the series, and it shows with its updated fluid controls. The interactive control scheme in the boss battles and in many escape sequences adds a new gameplay mechanic, too. I guarantee the rush you get from evading a boulder set on destruction will not soon leave you. The pacing has also been improved. In an almost methodical way, the game pushes you to the limits and lets you catch your breath in the most calculated, exceptionally designed way. And none can deny that RE4 gives escort missions a new standard. How realistic is it that who you escort can go and hide when danger is imminent? Talk about realism in game design. Let's hope the next generation of gaming can tap into this more realistic gameplay as much as the beautiful graphics we are often promised.


3. Trauma Center: Under the Knife - DS
Many naysayers claimed the DS's touch screen gameplay was a gimmick. By definition alone that would mean that the DS was easy to advertise yet it was destined to fail. Within the first year of the DS's life, in walks Trauma Center with is solid story complete with character development, tricky puzzles, and true creativity in how to capitalize on the touch screen innovation. You play as Dr. Derek Stiles, a young doctor finding his way in his craft of medicine. He is immediately tasked with some difficult life changing decisions and thrust himself head on into a battle against a deadly virus known as GUILT. Using the DS's touch screen, the stylus becomes your direct tool into the medical field as you find yourself operating on various patients who are affected by this virus. The game can be demanding at times, but soon enough, you will be removing tumors and viruses, and suturing wounds with precise speed and execution. Trauma Center capitalizes on the DS's abilities in a real way. It's a complete game experience all around and one that any DS owner must try. Trauma Center: Under the Knife is originality at its best.


2. God of War - PS2
I'll refrain from complaining about the box pushing puzzles for this "best of" piece, because every once in a while a new intellectual property (an original idea) comes along that pushes the boundaries of what we consider a great action game. This generation has seen a few really great ones that are now considered the mold for future action games. Annoying box pushing or not, God of War fits the bill of a great action game. Like Devil May Cry before it, God of War gave us action fans something to get excited about. With Kratos' fluid Blades of Chaos and Ares' demanding presence, it was obvious much care and planning went into this one. The architecture and grand landscapes accent this story of the gods with beauty and grace.

In an attempt to keep the player in control and involved, there are several moments in the game that require direct player interaction. Tapping out a sequence of button presses to bring down an enormous beast gives the player the sense of realism that can otherwise seem mundane. In other words, by the time the sequence is over, you feel like you are Kratos defeating the towering bosses. Make God of War the next action game you try. In no time at all, you'll see how fluid it moves, the grandness of the environments, and fall in love with action games all over again.


1. Guitar Hero - PS2
My number one game of 2005 may come as a shock to some. After all, it isn't what most gamers see as a typical video game. It has no baddies to fight, no hero who overcomes tragedy, no leveling-up, no new cool weapons to gain; I could go on and on. But do all of those things have to be present in order to have a true video game? I'd like to think gamers are more than just exploring caves and fighting bosses. They're about interactivity. And if there's one element that all of these games on my list have in common it's direct, physical interactivity with the player. That interactivity is the catalyst through which we experience games. As for Guitar Hero, I believe that its interactivity and replayability were enough to grant it the number one spot on my list. After all, it is an original intellectual property, not a sequel. Sure, it required a special controller to play, but that only meant I, the player, was in the role that much more. When jamming out to Cream's "Crossroads" or shredding to Ozzy Osborune's "Bark at the Moon," there was no denying that I felt like a rockstar. How's that for role playing? Interactivity is an extra step the developers can take to ensure total immersion. Take for example something I just touched on, the mandatory button presses God of War requires you to perform when bringing down bosses. Sure, you could argue that all games are interactive since it is the player controlling the lead character. That is definitely true, but these games are offering the cure for the player sitting on their couch, controller in hand, and becoming numb to the experience. It's keeping you involved throughout the entire gaming experience and allows you to become that character you're controlling.

There is no denying the Nintendo DS's innovations have influenced much of my list this year; it has influenced much of what interested me this year as well. When three of the ten games listed are DS exclusive titles, I would say it definitely has a hold on me. The direct interaction that it demands of gamers is refreshing and it gives hope that the gaming industry won't get stuck in a mundane rut. As I look ahead at 2006, I hope this is a trend the developers adopt and master and with the Nintendo Revolution on the horizon, I have a very good feeling about gaming as a whole.


Honorable Mentions:
Riviera: The Promised Land
Oddworld: Stranger's Wrath
Mario Kart DS


Most Underappreciated Console Game - Phantom Dust

Most Underappreciated Portable Game - Sigma Star Saga

Most Overlooked FPS - Unreal Championship 2: The Liandri Conflict

Best Console of 2005 - Nintendo DS

And The Best Console of 2005's Five Best Games -
5. Mario Kart
4. Animal Crossing: Wild World
3. Kirby Canvas Curse
2. Trauma Center: Under the Knife
1. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow


2006 Wishlist
Even more innovative DS titles, the Nintendo Revolution, a smaller DS (which is coming!!!), a new game in the Golden Sun series, cheaper next-gen games and PSP titles, gameplay that exceeds its pretty graphics, and last but not least.... a new Mario game!!!!