Games of 2021


1. Shenmue III by Ys Net [PS4]
I have yet to play the first two games (my collection does include the first game on Dreamcast), so I was a little confused story-wise at times. The first hour, I was more lost than found, and felt a strong urge to give up on the game. Persevered, though, and came to thoroughly enjoy the story. Reviews were mixed (GamesRadar+ called it 'a magnificent, authentic, totally uncompromised sequel that crucially ignores virtually every gaming trend of the past 18 years'), but I really dug it. Sure, the controls are clunky at times, but I loved the pedestrian, hyper-realistic, slow pace. Chop wood in real-time to save up on some measly currency? Drive a forklift truck for hours on end? Bring it on! Here's hoping for a Shenmue 4.


Honourable mentions

Creed: Rise to Glory by Survios [PS4 VR]
Haven't played it, so no opinion as of now. Need a PS VR set to be able to sample it. Bargain at $8.99.

DJ Hero 2 by FreeStyleGames [Wii]
Haven't played it, so no opinion as of now. Bargain at $2 (and I really liked the first DJ Hero).

The Last of Us Part II by Naughty Dog [PS4]
Haven't played it, so no opinion as of now. Bargain at $10 (and I LOVED the first game).



Julian De Backer, 22 July 2022