5. World of Warcraft: Legion
Above: Legion is a success for Blizzard.
Developer: Blizzard
Publisher: Activision Blizzard
Platform: PC
World of Warcraft is the game that just won’t go away. I planned to level my character to 110 and move on, but Legion is just too engaging to leave behind. The new world quests give you something meaningful and fun to do every day. The class halls and artifact weapons give you a stronger tie to your character, and the story doesn’t suck (looking at you, Warlords of Draenor).
4. Titanfall 2
Above: Titanfall 2’s campaign sure looks pretty.
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Titanfall 2‘s multiplayer actually isn’t grabbing me the same was the original’s did (maybe because I’m playing so much Overwatch), but the single-player campaign makes up for this. It’s wonderfully paced, switching from platforming and pilot to action and titan. And right when you think you’re about to get bored, its level design shows why it’s some of the most clever I’ve ever seen in a shooter.
3. Final Fantasy XV
Above: There’s a lot to explore in Final Fantasy XV.
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One
How can a game that’s been in development for so long come out so good? The game formerly known as Final Fantasy Versus XIII is unlike any other in the series, focusing on real-time combat and an open world. But it works because it’s so different, with its large, gorgeous world filled with treasures and magical moments.
2. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Above: “Nice report card, kid! You’re going to Chuck E. Cheese’s!”
Developer: Naughty Dog
Publisher: Sony
Platform: PlayStation 4
I love this series, and A Thief’s End is a great way to finish the story. Nate and his friends are just as charming as ever, and the addition of his brother to the cast adds more depth to Drake’s background and gives this game a strong theme: the bond of brothers and what you’re willing to do for them. Just like other Uncharted games, A Thief’s End has memorable set-pieces, beautiful locations, and funny dialogue. It’s pure, blissful entertainment from start to end.
1. Overwatch
Above: Get eliminated by Ana.
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Overwatch is my favorite competitive experience in gaming. The team-based shooter has so many heroes, each with distinct abilities and strengths, that I’m never bored. It’s also filled with personality. Overwatch can make me care more about a character with a simple animation or voice line than most other games can with hours of cutscenes. I haven’t stopped playing Overwatch since it came out in May, and I don’t see myself stopping any time soon.