For this year, we saw a very diverse selection of games ranging from AAA to Indie that are going to make up this list. Number 10 may not be the most polished game out there, but it makes it on for sheer WTF and for being greater than the sum of its parts.
#10 — Nier Automata
Nier Automata is one of those titles that leave everybody wondering what the heck did they just play. While a sequel to the game Nier, Automata tells a completely original story about love, what it means to be alive, religion and even more.
This is all told through a game that feels like a collection of game systems stitched together, but it still works in a weird way. Players can install chips onto their character that can enhance their stats or give them new abilities. There are a variety of side quests, mini games and some of the most interesting music you’ll hear in 2017.
The game even has 26 different endings varying in length, weirdness and content. You will also have to replay the game several times to see it all.
Nier Automata is what I call a game that was explicitly designed to be like this. For some people, this was probably one of their favorite games of the year; for others, their least favorite.
The reason why it doesn’t rank higher on the list is simple. Nier Automata is about an experience first, gameplay third or fourth down the line. The difficulty of the game is either very easy or a frustrating time depending on the difficulty level, and I don’t think there was much balance put into it.
You have to go into playing Nier Automata with a very specific mindset of what you’re looking for in a video game.
I may never meet Yoko Taro or ever find out who he is, but shine on you crazy diamond.
Up next for #9, we have a game that is as beautiful as it is challenging.
