2008′s best games innovated
THE NEXT LEVEL
Several sequels were among the best video games of 2008, but innovation also came into play, both with new peripherals, new properties, and new adaptations of well-known franchises. The following are some of the best games of 2008:
Wii Fit
Using the Wii Balance Board in this workout game is not only fun, it’s a way to burn calories. The Nintendo crew continues to find ways to make the Wii a must-have for the non-hardcore gamers.
Grand Theft Auto IV
The game lived up to the hype. The mature-rated “Grand Theft Auto IV” features Niko Bellic, an eastern European lured to Liberty City by the promises of his cousin. His cousin, however, has oversold his own importance, and Niko must dig through the city’s underbelly to reach his goals. Excellent visuals and an engrossing storyline make “GTA IV” a must-buy for those who don’t mind the rough content.
Dead Space
Engineer Isaac Clarke is sent to repair a ship in deep space. But once there, he finds the ship overrun by zombies.
He has to use the tools on hand (like saws and welding guns) to take out the zombies in this survivalist horror game with a twist.
Left 4 Dead
Another zombie thriller, “Left 4 Dead” will adjust the gameplay experience based on the characters’ actions.
LEGO Batman
Explore the world of the Dark Knight in this adventure game starring LEGO versions of Batman, Robin, the Joker and more.
MLB 08: The Show
Excellent graphics and multiple gameplay options make this among the best sports games available for the PS3.
NCAA Football 09
The addition of online dynasty mode to this always-solid college football simulation made “NCAA Football 09″ among the year’s best.
Rock Band 2
Music-based games became more popular in 2008. The best of them was “Rock Band 2,” which allows the gamer to take on various roles in a rock and roll band. “Rock Band 2″ has new songs and more modes, as well as compatibility with previously downloaded “Rock Band” content.
– Matthew Price
From the Dec. 26 edition of The Oklahoman
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Comments
I agree LittleBigPlanet deserves a look. It’s less to my taste, perhaps, and I only listed some of what I considered the best games. I didn’t list Spore, either, which could also have been considered an innovative game this year. But basically, with the column, you’re getting my opinion.
I think every game I listed offered some kind of innovation, whether it’s the way to attack the zombies in “Dead Space,” or the gameplay editor in “Left 4 Dead” or the online dynasty in “NCAA Football 09.” But sure, different people will have different opinions!
True that, true that Nerd =) No big deal really, just thought that some were greater innovators than others. You know? But, as you say, to each their own!
Merry Christmas!
Morne
For what it’s worth, I did call “Little BigPlanet” the best E-rated game for holiday purchase here:
http://blog.newsok.com/nerdage/2008/12/02/quick-gift-guide-video-games/
So I agree with you that it’s a good one!
And a Happy New Year to you!
How are any of these games innovative except for Rock Band 2 and Wii Fit? And even that’s an already tried type of product (See: Rock Band 1, Guitar Hero etc…). Wondering why LittleBigPlanet isn’t up there. Considering it’s the only game out there that allows for the kind of user created content that it does allow. Interesting exclusion that one.
Morne