In a recent reflection on the expansive world of PC gaming, a surprising realization emerged: there are over 100 noteworthy titles that deserve recognition. This revelation, while exciting, also sparked a sense of urgency among enthusiasts who felt that some beloved games were unjustly omitted from a curated list. Fueled by a desire to amend this oversight, contributors have each championed a personal favorite that they believe warrants inclusion.
Quest for Glory IV: Shadows of Darkness
Jeremy: Among the classics of point-and-click adventure games, only The Secret of Monkey Island graced the top 100, likely due to an inherent bias towards LucasArts. As a child of the Sierra era, I found my heart captured by Quest for Glory, particularly its fourth installment, Shadows of Darkness, released in 1993. This game invites players into the Eastern European-inspired valley of Mordavia, where the quest revolves around thwarting vampires intent on summoning Avoozl, a nod to Lovecraftian horror. Yet, what truly resonates is the pervasive melancholy woven through the narratives of its characters. Each non-playable character grapples with their own sorrows, and the satisfaction derived from aiding them is a rare gem in gaming. Coupled with a combat system reminiscent of Street Fighter II and the captivating voice of John Rhys-Davies as the narrator, this title, despite its initial bugs, has been revitalized by dedicated fan patches. It’s available on Steam for a modest price, making it a must-play alongside its predecessors.
Return Of The Obra Dinn
Brendan: Few games immerse players in the role of an insurance investigator in the year 1807, yet Return of the Obra Dinn does just that. As you board the eponymous ship, mysteriously intact but devoid of crew, a magical stopwatch allows you to revisit pivotal moments, unraveling the fates of 60 individuals. This game transcends mere whodunnit; it explores the how, where, when, and why of each demise. As you navigate the ship’s decks, the realization dawns that many tragedies were preventable, while others spiral into unexpected mythic consequences. It’s a blend of social archaeology and murder mystery, captivating from the first moment you engage with its enigmatic narrative.
The Binding Of Isaac: Rebirth
Ed: As one of the pioneering roguelikes, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth has proven its enduring appeal. The premise is simple: control Isaac as he navigates through a series of randomly generated rooms, battling grotesque foes with tears as his weapon. The game’s replayability is staggering; I’ve invested over 112 hours and still have not unlocked every bizarre item that transforms Isaac into a nightmarish figure. With online co-op now available, the experience becomes even more engaging as players embark on a quest for elusive achievements together.
Into The Breach
Graham: Recognized as perhaps the finest turn-based tactics game, Into The Breach places players in command of mechs defending cities from alien threats. Its unique design allows players to anticipate enemy moves, providing a strategic advantage on the 8×8 battlefield. This transparency fosters a rewarding gameplay experience, enabling players to devise counter-moves that turn the tide against their foes. While it draws inspiration from titles like XCOM: Enemy Unknown, Into The Breach stands out as a masterpiece in its own right, a fact that stings even more given its absence from the top 100 list.
Neon White
Nic: In discussing speedrunning, it would be remiss not to mention Neon White, a game that epitomizes the thrill of rapid traversal through meticulously crafted levels. This title offers a series of curated experiences that teach players the art of speedrunning while allowing for creative experimentation. The sensation of controlled vertigo is exhilarating, and while it may not have made the top 100, it certainly earns accolades as a quintessential gaming experience of the decade.
Deep Rock Galactic
James: Who would have anticipated that a co-op FPS featuring a group of drunken, deep-space dwarves would emerge as a successor to Left 4 Dead? Deep Rock Galactic excels in its core mechanics, offering a satisfying blend of combat and teamwork. Each class plays a vital role, whether it’s the Scout zipping through environments or the Engineer providing essential support. The procedurally generated alien caves are visually stunning and filled with navigational challenges, making each mission a unique adventure. The game’s humor and light-heartedness set it apart from other co-op experiences, ensuring that even failures lead to laughter rather than frustration.
Transistor
Ollie: If I were to encapsulate my gaming memories in a single sphere, it would undoubtedly be my first experience with Transistor. This title presents a poignant narrative of love and survival, set against a backdrop of a beautifully crafted digital world. The blend of real-time and turn-based combat is innovative, and the ability to combine skills for new effects is a feature I wish more games would embrace. The emotional depth of the story, coupled with its stunning soundtrack, makes Transistor a timeless masterpiece in the gaming landscape.
Ghost of Tsushima
Kiera: In a landscape yearning for a feudal Japan-themed Assassin’s Creed, Ghost of Tsushima emerged as a standout title. Players assume the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai torn between traditional honor and the more pragmatic ‘way of the Ghost’ in his fight against the Mongol invasion. The game’s cinematic quality and vibrant color palette create an immersive atmosphere, while optional activities like poetry writing and shrine exploration enrich the experience. The combat system allows for dynamic combos based on different stances, providing a satisfying and visceral gameplay experience that resonates deeply with those interested in Japanese lore.
Sunless Skies
Edwin: Sunless Skies invites players into an alt-Victorian universe filled with layers of intrigue and myth. As you pilot your locomotive across astral landscapes, the game poses profound questions about existence and the nature of the dead. Each location is a meticulously crafted narrative, offering a rich tapestry of lore that reflects on the complexities of the British Empire. The game’s writing is exceptional, and the experience of exploring its eerie world is both haunting and rewarding, making it a unique entry in the realm of space exploration games.
Nic: As we navigate the vast landscape of gaming, the question remains: which title do you believe deserves recognition for its absence? We invite you to share your thoughts passionately, as every voice contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding these beloved games.
