A lot of games come out every year, but some games stay with us for years. 2021 was an exciting year for gaming, with a wealth of new titles released on various platforms. From first-person shooters to RPG classics, 2021 saw some of the best video games ever created.
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While some of the big names like Call of Duty and Assassin’s Creed have come and gone, there are nevertheless plenty of games from 2021 that we’re still playing. We’ve seen everything from big-budget AAA titles to smaller indie games take the gaming world by storm.
With so many great games to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones to play and keep coming back to. To help narrow down the choices, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 games from 2021 that we’re still playing today. Read on to find out which games made the cut.
#10. Chicory: A Colorful Tale
Chicory is a game about color, discovering what that means to you, and sharing your experience with others. You play as a character who has been given the ability to bring color into the world, but only if you can handle the responsibility that comes with it.
- Chicory: A Colorful Tale 2021 Greg Lobanov. All rights reserved. Finji and regal weasel and crown logo are trademarks of Finji, LLC.
Along the way, you explore vibrant and enchanting landscapes, meet interesting characters, and complete puzzles and mini-games. The game is suitable for all ages and can be enjoyed solo or with up to three friends in local cooperative play.
You will solve puzzles and find hidden treasures as you travel through different environments, such as deserts, forests, snow areas, and many more. To get ahead in this wonderful adventure game, you need to not only look for items but also talk to the inhabitants of each region, which will lead to new paths.
The game features various levels, each introducing new characters, puzzles, and obstacles. The story also unravels in a compelling fashion as players progress through the game. With charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and a heartwarming story, Chicory: A Colorful Tale will provide hours of fun and entertainment.
#9. Mass Effect Legendary Edition
As one of the most anticipated releases of 2021, Mass Effect Legendary Edition did not disappoint. This remaster of the Mass Effect trilogy allows players to experience all three classic games with improved visuals and gameplay.
- One person is all that stands between humanity and the greatest threat it’s ever faced.Relive the legend of Commander Shepard in the highly acclaimed Mass Effect trilogy with the Mass Effect Legendary Edition.Includes single-player base content and over 40 DLC from Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3, including promo weapons, armors, and packs - remastered and optimized for 4k Ultra HD.
With smoother combat, improved textures, 4K Ultra HD support, and remastered cinematics, the Legendary Edition delivers an updated version of a beloved classic that stands the test of time. In addition to the improved visuals, the Legendary Edition includes all single-player DLC content and bonus weapons, armor, and packs.
This allows players to experience the original games in their entirety and explore all the new content included in the release. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the series or new to the universe, Mass Effect Legendary Edition provides hours of entertainment and adventure.
#8. Psychonauts 2
Players take on the role of Raz, a young psychic who finds himself enrolled in a summer camp for those with special abilities. To save his fellow campers, Raz must explore the mysterious depths of the Psychonauts headquarters and unravel its secrets.
The game has received high praise for its unique art style, clever puzzles, and story-driven gameplay. It’s filled with memorable characters, colorful levels, and an immersive soundtrack. With an amazing cast of voice actors, fantastic writing, and clever game design, Psychonauts 2 is an experience that should not be missed.
#7. Forza Horizon 5
emForza Horizon 5/em is an open-world racing video game developed by Playground Games and published by Microsoft Studios for Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Game Pass. The game features numerous improvements over its predecessors, including improved graphics, better physics, new car customization options, and the ability to drive both on-road and off-road.
The developers have also added some unique features to the game, including dynamic weather and seasons that change the look and feel of the environment. In addition to these upgrades, Forza Horizon 5 offers an online multiplayer mode where players can challenge friends in races or team up for cooperative activities.
The gameplay of Forza Horizon 5 is as smooth as ever. The driving physics is incredibly realistic, and every car feels unique. The dynamic weather system and day/ night cycles make the game feel alive and constantly changing. The visuals are breathtaking, with detailed graphics and incredible effects.
The game also supports multiplayer, allowing players to join friends or compete against other racers online. There’s also a weekly race series that adds some extra challenge and competition. Overall, Forza Horizon 5 is a great racing game that has stood the test of time and is still highly enjoyable.
#6. Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker
It’s been over a decade since Final Fantasy XIV was first released, and it remains one of the most popular games today. The latest installment in the series, Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker, was released in 2021 and has proven to be one of the best MMORPGs of 2021.
- Dive into the next chapter of the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online with the latest expansion pack—ENDWALKER!New jobs: Sage and ReaperLevel cap increase from 80 to 90New cities: Old Sharlayan and Radz-at-Han…and more!
In Endwalker, you’ll join your chosen party of adventurers and set out on a quest to save the world from impending doom. Along the way, you’ll explore gorgeous environments, complete daring missions, and participate in thrilling battles.
Endwalker features a revamped combat system that allows for more strategic and tactical play than ever before. You’ll be able to use a variety of abilities, weapons, and spells to overcome your opponents. Additionally, there’s an extensive crafting system to create powerful items and equipment for yourself or your party.
Endwalker also brings a wealth of content for players to enjoy. There are eight dungeons for you to explore, ranging from traditional dungeons to raids and other challenging endgame content.
There are also over 100 quests for you to experience, offering multiple paths and branching options so that no two playthroughs will be alike. Plus, you can join other players in the game’s MMO-style quests and activities.
The art direction in Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker is simply stunning, and the soundtrack is beautiful. This game is filled with endearing characters and plenty of content for players to enjoy for hours. Plus, with the addition of the new content, Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker is sure to keep players engaged for a long time.
#5. Resident Evil Village
The Resident Evil series is one of the most beloved video game franchises of all time, and the latest installment — emResident Evil Village/em — has been a hit with fans and critics alike. This survival horror game occurs in a sinister European village, where players must battle zombies and monsters to survive.
Players will take on the role of Ethan Winters as he navigates this terrifying world and attempts to uncover its secrets. The game features intense combat sequences, challenging puzzles, and an intriguing storyline. With stunning visuals and an immersive atmosphere, Resident Evil Village has become one of 2021’s most highly-rated games and one that many gamers are still playing and enjoying.
#4. Hades
One of the most acclaimed games of 2021 has been emHades/em, an action role-playing game developed by Supergiant Games. Hades puts players in the shoes of Zagreus, the immortal son of Hades, as he attempts to escape from his father’s domain.
With its excellent writing, charming art style, and enjoyable combat, it’s easy to see why Hades continues to captivate players. Hades allows for a great deal of replayability with its multiple difficulty levels, unlockable items, and secrets waiting to be discovered.
Players can customize their character with various weapons, armor, and relics to suit their playstyle. They can also interact with characters in the underworld, which offers interesting dialogue options. In addition to its engaging gameplay, Hades has earned critical acclaim for its outstanding writing and voice acting.
The game’s story offers many surprises and moments of humor that make it easy to get lost in its world. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring stunning compositions by Darren Korb that add an extra level of atmosphere and depth.
Overall, Hades is a fantastic game that offers hours of entertainment. Its combination of a captivating story, intense combat, and excellent art design makes it one of the best games of 2021 and something that we’ll be playing for years to come.
#3. Tetris Effect: Connected
Tetris Effect: Connected is a unique puzzle game that combines the classic gameplay of Tetris with the narrative storytelling of the original hit game. This enhanced version of the classic Tetris game offers new challenges and levels for those who have played for years.
- Over 30 different stages, each with its own music, sound effects, graphical style and background that all evolve and change as you play through themAn exhilarating single-player experience full of surprisesA wide variety of competitive and co-op modesCross-platform multiplayer lets you play with players from all over the worldIncludes the all-new “Zone” mechanic, where players can stop time (and Tetriminos falling) by entering “the Zone” and either get out of a sticky situation that could otherwise lead to “Game…
The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and visuals, as well as its relaxing soundtracks and sound design. In Tetris Effect: Connected, players must arrange different colored blocks on the game board to complete a line and make it disappear.
To help players progress, various Power-Ups can be used to increase the difficulty or even provide an advantage. The game also includes a co-op mode where up to four players can join online or locally to complete levels in a single playthrough.
The game also features a unique Zone mode, which allows players to slow down time and build up blocks without having them fall from the top of the screen. This allows players to focus on clearing lines and earning high scores.
#2. Halo Infinite
The story of emHalo Infinite/em revolves around the legendary Master Chief, who finds himself in a mysterious alien ringworld known as Zeta Halo. As he embarks on his journey, the Chief must face new enemies, uncover ancient secrets, and find a way to save humanity from a devastating threat.
Halo Infinite is the next step in the evolution of the Halo franchise. It features an expansive and immersive multiplayer experience, bringing together players from all over the world to battle it out. Players can choose to fight either solo or join forces with up to 4 friends in an intense, epic cooperative campaign mode.
Halo Infinite also offers a classic deathmatch style mode that allows you to compete against your opponents in fierce, team-based warfare. The game features brand-new weapons, vehicles, armor abilities, and maps to create a truly unique experience. With its improved graphics and lightning-fast gameplay, Halo Infinite takes action to a whole new level.
#1. Deathloop
Deathloop is the latest game from Bethesda and Arkane Studios, released in May 2021. It’s a unique blend of first-person shooter and action-adventure games with a time-bending twist. Set on the enigmatic island of Blackreef, the game pits protagonist Colt against a cadre of rival assassins in a battle to break a never-ending cycle of time.
- DEATHLOOP is a next-gen first person shooter from Arkane Lyon, the award-winning studio behind DishonoredIn DEATHLOOP, two rival assassins are trapped in a mysterious timeloop on the island of Blackreef, doomed to repeat the same day for eternityAs Colt, the only chance for escape is to end the cycle by assassinating eight key targets before the day resetsLearn from each cycle - try new paths, gather intel, and find new weapons and abilities, and do whatever it takes to break the loopDo whatever it takes to break the loop
Deathloop‘s gameplay combines a fast-paced first-person shooter experience with a deep story that keeps you engaged throughout the game. As you progress through the game, you’ll gain access to new weapons and abilities, allowing you to customize your approach to any situation. You can choose to take on each mission directly or plan a stealthy approach, depending on your preference.
Deathloop‘s gameplay focuses on finding creative ways to survive against your opponents, using various weapons, gadgets, and tools at your disposal. You can explore the island, collect items, and upgrade your character with new abilities and weapons.
The game is set in a world of constant flux, where every day is different and challenging. The art style is a mix of dystopian visuals and vibrant colors, creating an atmosphere that’s both beautiful and deadly.
The story of Deathloop is an intricate one that revolves around the island’s mysterious fate. As you progress through the game, you’ll uncover more secrets and make decisions that will determine the future of Blackreef and its inhabitants. With its unique setting and intense gameplay, Deathloop looks to be a unique and exciting experience for gamers everywhere.
Final Thoughts
Despite the past year’s challenges, developers have continued to push the boundaries of gaming with their innovative releases. From new action-adventure titles to classic puzzle and strategy games, there has been no shortage of amazing gaming experiences worldwide.
Many of these games may become classics in years to come, and we can only imagine what amazing new titles will be released in 2023. Until then, we’ll keep playing and enjoying the fantastic games that came out in 2021 and this year.