Ben Allan
Rise of the Tomb Raider is a big-budget title that delivers a breathtaking adventure with all the trimmings.
Lots of little details impress, like the specific way a Covenant jackal will beat off an attacking Promethean crawler with his shield if you watch them fighting, or the swoops of alien bird creatures screeching around the skies. And it all hums along at the high frame rates that certain sections of the gaming populace seem very concerned that it should.
Batman: Arkham Knight is a visual treat. This sets a high standard the gameplay and story largely match, and the result is a closing chapter that's easy to recommend.
Its novel use of mechanics, its comic writing, and its retro aesthetics make Super Time Force a sure bet for those in search of light entertainment.
Wolfenstein II's stealth, gunplay, sprawling levels, and different abilities offer plenty of scope for a variety of player approaches, while its excellent writing and voice acting serve a great story that successfully manages to blend an often serious tone with moments of levity and pulp. It's an affecting yet cathartic title, and one of the very best games out this year.
Destiny 2 is the game everyone hoped its predecessor would be; a massive, polished, breathtaking beast in a class of its own.
Superhot is a highly effective expression of the gamer's neverending desire to perform cool action, but it also manages to perform some nifty narrative tricks as well. A clever, minimalistic, and totally badass indie gaming highlight.
Despite a troubled development, Doom is a confident, cracking throwback that pays loving tribute to its much-vaunted forefathers while bringing the noise via cutting edge tech. In a world awash with sci-fi hitscan shooters, it's a breath of fiery air that will delight as it melts faces.
Darkest Dungeon is a tough, atmospheric and rewarding RPG whose sanity mechanic, narration, and indelible aesthetic set it apart from the pack.
Inside is absolutely astonishing – a prime candidate for game of the year. Avoid spoilers and play it ASAP.