Some truly amazing games came out in 2019. From monolithic AAAs like Gears 5 and Pokemon Sword and Shield to unassuming indies like Wattam and Disco Elysium, the last year of the decade hasn’t left us wanting.
To celebrate the year that was, we’ve collected our highest-reviewed games of 2019 into a pseudo “best of” list. We’re a small staff at GameSkinny, so going the traditional “staff voting route” didn’t really make a whole lot of sense. The most democratic way to make a list like this was to include any game with a score of “8” or higher.
Such a rubric might not be perfect as it leaves out some of the year’s tentpole titles like Modern Warfare and Death Stranding, but a list like this is never perfect. It will always create some form of controversy.
So without further ado, here is GameSkinny’s “Best Games of 2019” list. We have arranged the following games in alphabetical order. Be sure to sound off in the comments at the end of the article. We’re certain you will have thoughts — and we want to hear them!
A Place for the Unwilling
Publisher: ALPixel Games
Developer: ALPixel Games
Initial Release Date: July 25, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: A Place for the Unwilling offers a delightfully sinister tale of mystery and destruction with a staggering number of branching paths that guarantee no playthrough will be the same.
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developer: Bandai Namco
Initial Release Date: January 18, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The VR Mode is the big draw of Bandai Namco’s new flight combat simulator, Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, but it is more limited than you might have hoped.
Age of Wonders: Planetfall
Publisher: Paradox Interactive
Developer: Triumph Studios
Initial Release Date: August 6, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: The turn-based strategy game of the year has arrived, and the unexpected transition from fantasy to sci-fi is handled superbly.
Ape Out
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Developers: Bennett Foddy, Gabe Cuzzillo, Matt Boch
Initial Release Date: February 28, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: There’s a lot to love about Ape Out and not many glaring flaws to point to… It may be a simple game with basic controls, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t still provide a challenge that rewards sound, strategic play.
Astral Chain
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Platinum Games
Initial Release Date: August 30, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Astral Chain presents an experience that might be familiar to those familiar with Platinum Games, but there’s enough to keep you engaged and excited… But even if you’re just looking for a new, fairly linear story to dive into, or dying to get your hands on a game whose combat actually involves new ideas and executes them well, then this is the game for you.
Atelier Lulua: The Scion of Arland
Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Developer: Koei Tecmo
Initial Release Date: May 21, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: It’s more of the same Atelier, but it also takes the best from its predecessors to synthesize a fun and customizable adventure. It might not be a huge leap forward for the series, but it combines the best elements from previous Atelier games to make this new entry a contender for best of the crop and an excellent starting point for newbies.
Atelier Ryza Ever Darkness and the Secret Hideout
Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Developer: Koei Tecmo
Initial Release Date: September 26, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Atelier Ryza is the best Atelier game to date, with some much-needed improvements that make for a more compelling package on the whole.
Blasphemous
Publisher: Team 17
Developer: The Game Kitchen
Initial Release Date: September 10, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: If you love SNES platformers and aren’t concerned by the possibility of an angry god pressing its “smite” button to rain lightning upon you, Blasphemous is simply a must-play.
Blazing Chrome
Publisher: The Arcade Crew, Limited Run Games
Developer: JoyMasher
Initial Release Date: July 11, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Rad and totally kickass, Blazing Chrome stands as one of the best run n’ gun games of all time. A worthy successor to the Contra crown from concept to execution.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: Artplay
Initial Release Date: June 18, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night stands as one of the best Vania games of recent memory, and one of the most satisfying games of 2019 so far.
Borderlands 3
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Gearbox Software
Initial Release Date: September 13, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Borderlands 3 is the best Borderlands has ever been. It’s beautiful, funny, and frantic in the best ways. There are issues, but those shouldn’t deter you too much from having an absolute blast.
Cadence of Hyrule
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Brace Yourself Games
Initial Release Date: June 13, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Cadence of Hyrule is a fresh approach to the classic 2D Legend titles that looks and sounds amazing, but it doesn’t last long.
Cardpocalypse
Publisher: Versus Evil
Developer: Gambrinous
Initial Release Date: December 6, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Cute graphics, funny writing, and good gameplay make Cardpocalypse a rousing good time.
Children of Morta
Publisher: 11 Bit Studios
Developer: Dead Mage Studios
Initial Release Date: September 3, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Children of Morta is a standout roguelike RPG with a solid central hook, satisfying gameplay, and gorgeous art style all piled on top of huge replay value.
Code Vein
Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developer: Bandai Namco
Initial Release Date: June 5, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Code Vein is an anime souls-like featuring great customization and a wonderfully bizarre world.
Control
Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: Remedy Entertainment
Initial Release Date: August 27, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Control is undoubtedly Remedy’s biggest and weirdest game yet. In many ways, it’s also their best, all while it paves the way for a Marvel-like connected universe.
Cooking Simulator
Publisher: PlayWay
Developers: Big Cheese Studio, Wastelands Interactive
Initial Release Date: June 6, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The simple fact that Cooking Simulator does what it says on the label makes it a must-have for anyone who loves cooking as much as they love gaming.
Dark Devotion
Publisher: The Arcade Crew, DotEmu, Maple Whispering Co.
Developer: Hibernian Workshop
Initial Release Date: April 25, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Get ready to die with another killer 2D souls-like that flips the script in several ways for a refreshing take on the genre.
Devil May Cry 5
Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Capcom
Initial Release Date: March 8, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Devil May Cry 5 is back, bringing with it the same hack-and-slash action that made it one of the best action franchises of all time.
Dick Wilde 2
Publisher: PlayStack
Developer: Bolverk Games
Initial Release Date: February 19, 2019
Platforms (VR): PS4, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: With humor, stylish visuals, and solid shooting mechanics, Bolverk Games’ Dick Wilde 2 is a great little VR diversion for those that dig on-rails shooters.
Disco Elysium
Publisher: ZA/UM
Developer: ZA/UM
Initial Release Date: October 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 10/10
What we said: Looking for something even weirder than Torment and with even more character customization options? Disco Elysium is RPG of the year. Hell, maybe even the decade.
Doraemon: Story of Seasons
Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developers: Marvelous Inc., Brownies Inc.
Initial Release Date: October 10, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Doraemon: Story of Seasons borrows from both franchises while managing to be a stand-out farm-sim game in its own right.
Dragon Star Varnir
Publisher: Idea Factory
Developer: Compile Heart
Initial Release Date: June 11, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Dragon Star Varnir could use some polishing in a few areas, but the combat, setting, and story make for a dark and compelling RPG nonetheless.
Dragon Quest Builders 2
Publisher: Square-Enix
Developers: Square-Enix, Omega Force
Initial Release Date: July 12, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Dragon Quest Builders 2 takes just about everything that made the original so enjoyable and improves upon it.
Etrian Odyssey Nexus
Publisher: Atlus
Developer: Atlus
Initial Release Date: February 5, 2019
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Etrian Odyssey Nexus is an excellent way to end the franchise’s time on the 3DS, beckoning old and new fans alike back into the labyrinth.
Far Cry New Dawn
Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Initial Release Date: February 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Far Cry New Dawn recycles the same general setting from last year’s Far Cry 5, but this time with a post-apocalyptic twist and healthy injection of creative, colorful, and bombastic content.
Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark
Publisher: 1C Entertainment
Developer: 6 eyes Studio
Initial Release Date: August 16, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark is a deep and engrossing tactical RPG no genre fan should miss. With interesting characters and complex combat, it’s a poster child for the greatest the genre can provide.
FIFA 20
Publisher: EA Games
Developers: EA Vancouver, EA Romania
Initial Release Date: September 27, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: For fun and realistic gameplay, FIFA 20 can’t be beat, though the specter of card packs looms large over the game’s Ultimate Team mode.
Figment
Publisher: Bedtime Digital Games
Developer: Bedtime Digital Games
Initial Release Date: September 22, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Figment turns a touchy topic into an engaging puzzle adventure that’s filled with heart and some excellent setting and soundtrack designs.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Publisher: Nintendo
Developers: Intelligent Systems, Koei Tecmo
Initial Release Date: July 26, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the definitive Fire Emblem experience, with a compelling story, streamlined gameplay, and a staggering amount of content.
Gears 5
Publisher: Xbox Game Studio
Developer: The Coalition
Initial Release Date: September 10, 2019
Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: The Coalition has set a new benchmark for Microsoft’s first-party campaigns. By taking huge risks, subverting expectations, and delivering a visual spectacle, Gears 5 is the best in the series.
God’s Trigger
Publisher: Techland
Developer: One More Level
Initial Release Date: April 18, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Heaven’s under new management. It takes a little while to come into its own, but God’s Trigger is a decent weekend’s worth of splatterpunk entertainment.
Gorn
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Developer: Free Lives
Initial Release Date: August 24, 2019
Platforms (VR): PS4, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Gorn is challenging, horrifying, hilarious, and a genuine joy to play. It manages to be brilliant in both short bursts and long sessions.
Heroland
Publisher: XSeed Games, FuRyu, Marvelous Inc.
Developer: FuRyu, Netchubiyori Limited
Initial Release Date: December 3, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Heroland offers a hilarious take on working life, RPGs, and fan culture, wrapped in a clever combat system.
Indivisible
Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: Lab Zero Games
Initial Release Date: October 8, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Indivisible brings its own mix of genres, packed with the best group of characters in years.
Ion Fury
Publisher: 3D Realms, 1C Company
Developers: Voidpoint LLC
Initial Release Date: February 28, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Ion Fury mixes old and new in a throwback FPS that deftly builds its own enduring identity.
John Wick Hex
Publisher: Good Shepherd Entertainment
Developer: Bithell Games
Initial Release Date: October 8, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: John Wick Hex puts you in the well-trained shoes of a master assassin, but without a lot of planning, you’ll find yourself no more use than a kid with a water pistol.
Judgment
Publisher: Sega
Developers: Sega, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Initial Release Date: June 25, 2019
Platforms: PS4
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Though there are some hiccups along the way, Judgment proves without a doubt that Ryu Ga Gotoku studio doesn’t need Kazuma Kiryu to sell a great game.
Katana Zero
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Developer: Askiisoft
Initial Release Date: April 18, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: If I have one complaint about Katana ZERO, it’s that there’s not already a sequel.
Kingdom Hearts 3
Publisher: Square-Enix
Developer: Square-Enix
Initial Release Date: January 25, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Kingdom Hearts 3 delivers an amazingly fun and intense experience in a long-awaited title that lives up to the hype.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Next Level Games
Initial Release Date: October 31, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Luigi’s Mansion 3 is almost non-stop fun and is another must-have for the Switch’s library.
Madden NFL 20
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: EA Tiburon
Initial Release Date: August 2, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Madden NFL 20‘s major new features are good on their own, but they are even better as a foundation for the years to come.
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Team Ninja
Initial Release Date: July 19, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 is a more-than-solid release that will interest most Switch owners. While some fans of the original games might have gripes, it’s still likely to be a solid choice.
Metro Exodus
Publisher: Deep Silver
Developer: 4A Games
Initial Release Date: February 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Metro Exodus, 4A’s new first-person shooter, is almost a perfect game, introducing exciting new elements while still offering the classic Metro experience.
Mini-Mech Mayhem
Publisher: FuturLab
Developer: FuturLab
Initial Release Date: June 18, 2019
Platforms (VR): PS4
Rating: 8/10
What we said: If you want a new, randomized strategy title for the PSVR that you can sink dozens of hours into, Mini-Mech Mayhem should be on your wishlist immediately.
MLB The Show 19
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Developer: SIE San Diego Studio
Initial Release Date: March 26, 2019
Platforms: PS4
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The Show is back with the latest, but just barely the greatest addition to the world of baseball video games.
Mortal Kombat 11
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Initial Release Date: April 23, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch, Stadia
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Almost three decades since the original, Mortal Kombat 11 proves the fighter’s might is still strong.
Need for Speed: Heat
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Ghost Games
initial Release Date: November 8, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Though it still can’t match the scope of Forza Horizon 4, Need for Speed: Heat is a great racing game in its own right.
NHL 20
Publisher: EA Sports
Developer: EA Vancouver
Initial Release Date: September 13, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Rating: 9/10
What we said: NHL 20 delivers an enjoyable simulation of the NHL experience, with new modes and features adding additional fun to the strong framework provided by prior years’ releases.
Night Call
Publisher: Raw Fury, MonkeyMoon
Developers: BlackMuffin, MonkeyMoon
Initial Release Date: July 17, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Night Call is an intriguing ride through Paris full of intriguing tales and conversations. Too bad its detective elements aren’t as compelling.
One Finger Death Punch 2
Publisher: Silver Dollar Games
Developer: Silver Dollar Games
Initial Release Date: April 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: One Finger Death Punch 2 is a deep, rhythmic fighting game that attempts to replicate the feel of classic kung fu movies.
Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth
Publisher: Atlus
Developer: P-Studio
Initial Release Date: June 4, 2019
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
Rating: 9/10
What we said: New Cinema Labyrinth is a brilliant combination of game mechanics with a heap of Persona charm and style that’s sure to keep you busy for a long time to come.
Planet Zoo
Publisher: Frontier Developments
Developer: Frontier Developments
Initial Release Date: November 5, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Planet Zoo is a deep management sim featuring some beautiful animal recreations. It’s a must-have for any animal lover.
Pokemon Sword and Shield
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Game Freak
Initial Release Date: November 15, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Pokemon Sword and Shield breathe a joyous breath of life back into the series, with great improvements and a stellar batch of new ‘mon.
RAD
Publisher: Bandai Namco
Developer: Double Fine
Initial Release Date: August 20, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: RAD is a fantastic roguelike that creates a world worth fighting for and a game well worth playing over and over again.
Rebel Galaxy Outlaw
Publisher: Double Damage Games
Developer: Double Damage Games
Initial Release Date: October 20, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Despite a few stumbles, Rebel Galaxy Outlaw is one of the best space sims of recent memory, with strong characters, fast-paced combat, and amazing music.
Remnant: From the Ashes
Publisher: Perfect World Entertainment
Developer: Gunfire Games
Initial Release Date: August 20, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Remnant: From the Ashes is a tough-as-nails cooperative shooter that brings together the best elements of games like Dark Souls and Left 4 Dead.
Ring Fit Adventure
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Initial Release Date: October 18, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Ring Fit Adventure may be the best exercise video game, blending strength and aerobics training into an impeccably designed package.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Publisher: From Software, Activision
Developer: From Software
Initial Release Date: March 22, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 10/10
What we said: Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is probably the best game From Software has ever made, and it’s worth every second of your time playing.
Shenmue 3
Publisher: Deep Silver, Shibuya Productions
Developers: Ys Net, Yu Suzuki
Initial Release Date: November 19, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: For better or worse, Shenmue 3 is a blast from the past. It’s a beautiful world marred only by its insistence to stay the same.
Sparklite
Publisher: Merge Games
Developer: Red Blue Games
Initial Release Date: November 14, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Sparklite is a good example of how creativity and sharp game design can elevate a genre even if you thought you’d seen everything it has to offer.
Spinnortality
Publisher: James Patton
Developer: James Patton
Initial Release Date: February 1, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Spinnortality is tightly focused on the bleak but shiny transhumanist megacorp side of cyberpunk, putting it in unique territory.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Initial Release Date: November 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has some technical issues and poor pacing but is still an amazing single-player Star Wars game.
Steel Division 2
Publisher: Eugen Systems
Developer: Eugen Systems
Initial Release Date: June 20, 2019
Platforms: PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Steel Division 2 proves to be a much better game than its predecessor in terms of graphics and mechanics, even if it still needs to solve a few balancing problems before it can be called “definitive.”
Stranded Sails
Publisher: Maple Whispering Co
Developer: Lemonbomb Entertainment
Initial Release Date: October 17, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Though it’s a bit more survival-focused than other games of its kind, Stranded Sails is still a mostly quaint and worthwhile farm life sim any genre fan will enjoy.
Stranger Things 3: The Game
Publisher: BonusXP
Developer: BonusXP
Initial Release Date: July 4, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch, Android
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Stranger Things 3 has taken over the pop culture world like it always does when a new season hits Netflix. If you’ve binged it already and need more, the console game is a fun adaptation worth any fan’s time.
Super Mario Maker 2
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Initial Release Date: June 28, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Super Mario Maker 2 fulfills just about everything it set out to do, making it a must-play for Mario fans.
Team Sonic Racing
Publisher: Sega
Developer: Sumo Digital
Initial Release Date: May 21, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch, iOS
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Team Sonic Racing is closer to a 3D Sonic game to a kart racer, and we love it. Sonic Heroes Racing, anyone?
The Blackout Club
Publisher: Question
Developer: Question
Initial Release Date: July 29, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Stranger things have happened, but they’re rarely as scary or as fun as The Blackout Club, a dynamic co-op adventure that beckons with its bellowing song of hypnosis.
The Church in the Darkness
Publisher: Fellow Traveler
Developer: Paranoid Productions
Initial Release Date: August 2, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The Church in the Darkness is an ambitious game and delivers on its premise almost all the way. It’s worth sipping this Kool-Aid.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 3
Publisher: NISA
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Initial Release Date: October 22, 2019
Platforms: PS4
Rating: 10/10
What we said: Trails of Cold Steel 3 is a masterclass in storytelling that improves nearly everything in the franchise’s history.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
Publisher: Nintendo
Developers: Grezzo
Initial Release Date: September 20, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: With a host of enhancements that more than make it worth playing for newcomers and old fans alike, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening remains a brilliant example of impeccable design.
The Outer Worlds
Publisher: Private Division, Take-Two Interactive
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Initial Release Date: October 25, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The Outer Worlds is a goofy, full to the brim RPG that liberally samples from other giants in the genre. It’s a fun romp through a neon universe.
The Sinking City
Publisher: Bigben Interactive
Developer: Frogwares
Initial Release Date: June 25, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: With a distinct lack of hand-holding, in-depth investigative mechanics, and a solid mix of open-world design with mythos monsters, The Sinking City is the standard for Lovecraftian games.
The Sojourn
Publisher: Iceberg Interactive
Developer: Shifting Tides
Initial Release Date: September 20, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Rating: 9/10
What we said: The Sojourn elevates simple mechanics and creative level design to create a thoroughly enjoyable puzzling experience and a game any fan of the genre should play.
The Surge 2
Publisher: Focus Home Interactive
Developer: Deck 13
Initial Release Date: September 24, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: With more options, more weapons, and a much bigger environment to play with, The Surge 2 improves on everything from its predecessor.
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove
Publisher: HumaNature Studios
Developer: HumaNature Studios
Initial Release Date: March 1, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove isn’t a blast FROM the past, it’s a blast TO the past.
Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
Publisher: Ubisoft
Developers: Massive Entertainment
Initial Release Date: March 15, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The Division 2 is an improvement on the first game in almost every way, and it’s both a fun game and a satisfying investment.
Trine 4
Publisher: Modus Games
Developer: Frozenbyte
Initial Release Date: October 8, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: The puzzles and banter are as good as they’ve ever been, though Trine 4 has a hard time overcoming some dodgy combat mechanics.
Trover Saves the Universe
Publisher: Squanch Games
Developer: Squanch Games
Initial Release Date: May 31, 2019
Platforms: PS4 (VR), Xbox One, PC (VR), Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: A surprisingly entertaining platformer smothered in Roiland-brand humor. Trover Save the Universe is a title well worth playing whether you have a VR headset or not.
Truberbrook
Publisher: Headup Games
Developers: btf GmBH
Initial Release Date: March 12, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Truberbrook has a few faults, but its engaging characters, enjoyable narrative, and fantastic atmosphere make it easy to recommend.
Vambrace Cold Soul
Publisher: Headup Games
Developer: Devespresso Games
Initial Release Date: May 28, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: If you don’t mind being actively abused and tortured for hours on end, Vambrace can become extremely addicting for fans of either Darkest Dungeon or classic SNES RPGs.
Void Bastards
Publisher: Humble Bundle
Developer: Blu Manchu
Initial Release Date: May 28, 2019
Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Rating: 8/10
What we said: Void Bastards is a roguelite shooter that encourages experimentation and smart thinking in outer space, and it mostly works to great effect.
Wattam
Publisher: Annapurna
Developer: Funomena, SIE Santa Monica Studio
Initial Release Date: December 17, 2019
Platforms: PS4, PC
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Wattam is a rare wonder of a game, full of hope, charm, and poop. But it’s also one of the kindest games to come out all year.
We. The Revolution
Publisher: Klabater
Developer: Polyash
Initial Release Date: March 21, 2019
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: All told, We. The Revolution comes together to make a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
What the Golf?
Publisher: Triband
Developer: Triband
Initial Release Date: October 1, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch
Rating: 8/10
What we said: What the Golf? is a funny hole-in-one success of a game that keeps surprising and captivating with unfiltered creativity.
Witcheye
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Developer: Moon Kid
Initial Release Date: August 15, 2019
Platforms: Android, iOS
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Witcheye is the most fun you can have as a floating eye in a mobile game.
Yoshi’s Crafted World
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: good-Feel
Initial Release Date: March 29, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 10/10
What we said: Don’t let the green dino’s mid-tier status fool you. With fluid platforming, incredible attention to detail, and a huge variety of content, Yoshi’s Crafted World is a must-have Switch game.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Legacy of the Duelist: Link Evolution
Publisher: Konami
Developer: Other Ocean Interactive
Initial Release Date: August 20, 2019
Platforms: Switch
Rating: 9/10
What we said: Yu-Gi-Oh! Legacy of the Duelist: Link Evolution is the most complete Yu-Gi-Oh! title to date, with a great price tag for its infinitely replayable content.
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That’s it for our list of the best games of 2019. What were your favorite games? Sound off in the comments below.
