Morgan

Morrowind is the last true RPG in the Elder Scrolls series, offering unparalleled player-agency and narrative variance. Everything from character build to the way the narrative unfolds is entirely at the whim of the player. Quests require reading, the use of weapons requires proficiency and levelling, and entire questlines can be skipped or cut short due to player actions. Morrowind has an intricate narrative that truly allows for player input, warranting many playthroughs as, rightly so, the player cannot simply do everything in one playthrough. Where Oblivion and Skyrim offered a far more accessible and streamlined approach to the Elder Scrolls, Morrowind is a true example of the RPG genre at its best.

Yakuza 0, as with the rest of the series, is a game that will either instantly grip newcomers or alienate them with its often times absurd and unique approach to game design. For those that stick around, however, Yakuza 0 will shine as an example of some of the best of gaming. It is heartwarming, emotionally gripping, tense, atmospheric and of course, absolutely crazy. It blends the swagger of the Yakuza in a neon-lit district of Tokyo with the emotional core of crime stories and a fun and often times brutal combat system. Everything from the soundtrack to the main narrative of Yakuza 0 is done perfect. Neither the serious nor the comedic is outweighed by one another, resulting in one of the most emotionally whole games available.

Escape From Tarkov is an experience unlike any other, essentially creating a genre and remaining the clear best example of extraction shooters. Escape From Tarkov vehemently sticks to its design document, almost stubbornly ensuring it retains its difficulty and edge. It is brutal, unforgiving, atmospheric, but above all else, rewarding. There is no feeling like building up a knowledge base for Escape From Tarkov, beginning each new wipe armed with new knowledge that will push progression further. It is one of the best gaming examples of the fact that knowledge is power, and there is always something to learn.

World of Warcraft is a timeless and ever-evolving MMO that acted not just as an introduction to the genre for many people, but shaped MMOs into what we know them to be today. Each expansion offers a wealth of content for every type of player, and the extensive backlog of achievements to complete and items to collect ensure that there will always be something to do. An underrated asepct of World of Warcraft is its soundtrack, a lengthy backlog of tracks that are equal parts beautiful and exquisitely crafted. This, coupled with the extensive lore and overall atmosphere of each zone makes World of Warcraft a joy to play.

The sheer amount of detail and the methodical design decisions at play within Red Dead Redemption 2 showcase the meticulous nature of Rockstar at its very best. The game is a gripping and cinematic adventure, spanning a intricate and vast open world that houses hundreds of hours of content. Above all, the atmosphere and setting makes Red Dead Redemption 2 a joy to simply exist in. It is a truly unparalleled experience that will continue to be in the discussion for the best game of all time.