As we enter into the swing of things in 2015, video games only seem to become bigger, better, and more beautiful in release after release. From new installments of well-loved series to cutting-edge, unique pioneers, the game industry regularly churns out something for everyone. Here are a few notable recent standouts.
Labeled as “overhyped,” “beautiful,” and even “addictive,” Destiny was released on September 9, 2014 after much advertising and fanfare. The game is classified as “the next evolution” of the first-person shooter with “rich cinematic storytelling” as the player takes the role of a Guardian of the last city on Earth.
Destiny has an emphasis on becoming a next-gen Call of Duty and accomplishes most of that goal through its breathtakingly stunning graphics. From cutscenes to surroundings on different planets to the personalized design of the characters, the game brings video game graphics to a new level and raises the bar for future similar ventures.
However, disappointed users that expected more of an engaging story given the dramatic advertisements and an epic slogan–“Become Legend”–weigh down Destiny’s generally favorable reviews on Metacritic, an influential website that reviews pop culture. Despite qualms about the nonexistent storyline, most users generally agree that Destiny’s classic shooter gameplay combined with stellar graphics make the game a respected pick for the new year.
Assassin’s Creed Unity is the most recent yearly installment of the Assassin’s Creed (AC) franchise created in 2007 and is classified as an open world game (players can freely roam a virtual world and make decisions). It was released on November 11, 2014 to unfavorable reviews by users and mixed reviews by critics. In general, most complain that Unity is rife with unnecessary glitches and random drops in framerate, which frustrate many players.
The graphics improve with every new AC game that Ubisoft releases, and Unity’s rendition of Paris during the height of the French Revolution is beautiful; unfortunately, no amount of detail in buildings and scenery can make up for a “basically broken game.” However, players mostly seem to enjoy the new freerun and stealth systems that feel second-nature and extremely comfortable, and the story, albeit predictable, is solid and enjoyable. In addition, Kunal Patnaik ’15 picks Unity as his favorite recent release “because the game has a very innovative co-op play that allows me to complete missions in a different way with other players.”
Finally, hailed as “a unique creative vision” that everyone must try, Transistor tells the tale of a young woman named Red who acquires a mysterious, powerful, sword-like weapon after a group of enemies attempt to assassinate her with it. A creative spin on the classic action RPG (role-playing game) genre, Transistor’s gorgeous 2D graphics and haunting soundtrack combined with its complex, gripping story create a distinctive indie game for anyone to enjoy.
A unique combat system that allows players to either speed through battles or strategize turn-by-turn ensures that players of all tastes can comfortably battle enemies. The game has received almost entirely positive reviews from both users and critics who call it a “breath of fresh air” and “an incredible world for an adventure.” Srinivas Mandyam ’16 names Transistor as his favorite recent game due to its “intricacies and ability to give you loads of fun.”
As a whole, these three praised and hyped games produced a variety of responses in players and critics alike, either exceeding or falling short of the public’s expectations. As 2015 goes on, we can anticipate new advances and more daring concepts as entertainment’s fastest-changing industry continues to expand and exponentially improve.