By Chris E. Hayner on Dec 22, 2017 11:30 pm
The 2017 Entertainment That Should Have Been More Popular
With so many movies and TV shows coming out every single week, it's nearly impossible to keep up to date on the best pop culture has to offer. Unfortunately, that means some of the most outstanding pieces o entertainment can get lost in the shuffle, especially during the busy year that was 2017. From what may have been the best video game adaptation ever, to a sequel that arrived 35 years after the movie it followed, to new ground being broken in the superhero genre, GameSpot is revisiting the best entertainment moments from the past year that should have been more popular. For one reason of another, these films and TV shows didn't find the audience interest they deserved. Whether it was a lack of box office success, not enough excitement from potential viewers, or a no social media buzz, these projects deserved better. Did you catch them all?
Marvel's The Punisher
After both Iron Fist and Defenders were met with average reviews, and given the current social climate when it comes to gun violence, you can't really blame viewers for skipping out on Marvel's The Punisher. That said, missing this one was a mistake. While Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal) didn't get much character development on Daredevil, Punisher paints the tragic anti hero as struggling with mental health issues as he gives into the urge to kill his enemies.
Blade Runner 2049
This movie had a lot going against it. As a sequel to a film from 35 years earlier, a major portion of the audience didn't know about the original. Still, somehow director Denis Villeneuve created one of the most beautiful and critically acclaimed sci-fi films of all time. In the end, though, the audience reaction didn't live up to the hype, leading to a disappointing run at the box office.
Colossal
When people complain about there being too many sequels and reboots, tell them about Colossal. It's the story of a woman who realizes her drunken movements are mimicked by a giant monster in Japan, putting a new spin on kaiju movies. With a cast consisting of Anne Hathaway, Jason Sudeikis, and Dan Stevens, you might expect it to be a hit. Sadly, it bombed. Perhaps that's why original ideas aren't explored more.
Castlevania
Netflix releases a lot of content every month. From scores of new shows, to original movies, it's easy for things to miss out on something. For many, that was the case with its animated adaptation of Castlevania, which debuted in July. This rare example of a video game adaptation that works really well was met with positive reviews from critics. However, as with many Netflix shows, it was quickly forgotten after release.
Saban's Power Rangers
The Power Rangers movie reboot was much better than anyone could have expected it to be. Whether it was giving an interesting backstory given to the Ranger powers or giving audiences their first autistic superhero, there was plenty to like about the film. Unfortunately, it opened to mixed reviews and less-than-stellar box office results. A sequel is possible but doesn't seem very likely.
Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later
The original Wet Hot American Summer movie has a niche fanbase at best. That's why it's not so surprising that the second sequel TV series--Ten Years Later--doesn't have a huge audience. Those missing it are skipping out on one of the funniest and star-studded shows of the year, though. With names like Amy Poehler, Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, Ken Marino, Michael Ian Black starring for multiple episodes, what's not to love?
A sequel to a 12-year-old movie is a risky bet, especially when you consider the franchise in question is xXx. Still, in terms of pure fun, xXx: Return of Xander Cage is hard to beat. With Vin Diesel returning as Xander Cage and very fun and funny performances from co-stars like Nina Dobrev and Ruby Rose, it really did deserve to be more of a hit. Luckily, it did rather well at the international box office, so perhaps there's still life left in the franchise.
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 10:30 pm
In a year cram-packed with big budget television series and movies filled with unique and complex characters, there was plenty to talk about in the realm of entertainment. From Star Wars to Stranger Things to Game of Thrones and more, we were reunited with some of our favorite people and introduced to a few we couldn't stop talking about. But which characters stood out the most this past year? Let us know which characters made the top of your list in the comment section below. As for the GameSpot crew, who were our favorites? Here are 27 characters from television and movies in 2017 that we loved and loved to hate. WARNING: THERE ARE MINOR SPOILERS AHEAD. BE WARNED.
27. Lenny (Legion)
Played by: Aubrey Plaza While the majority of the first season of Legion had viewers guessing as to whether or not Lenny was real, she was without a doubt one of the most dynamic and interesting characters on the show. Plaza showed a whole new acting range during this season, and her character had an incredible turn towards the end.
26. The Hormone Monsters (Big Mouth)
Played by: Nick Kroll/Maya Rudolph Few characters in 2017 were grosser--or truer to life. The Hormone Monster and Monstress, played by Kroll and Rudolph, respectively, embodied every terrible and wonderful urge each of us felt at that special time in our life.
25. Bob Newby (Stranger Things 2)
Played by: Sean Astin Whether or not the new hashtag ever catches on, Bob Newby remains the best new character added in Stranger Things Season 2. He's just so lovable!
24. Ed Kemper (Mindhunter)
Played by Cameron Britton Edmund Kemper definitely falls into the "love to hate" category. His soft-spoken, eloquent mannerisms only made heinous things that came out of his mouth all the more difficult to stomach. Poor Cameron Britton will probably never land a wholesome role in Hollywood after this one.
23. Trevor Belmont (Castlevania)
Played by: Richard Armitage Richard Armitage's rogueish portrayal of Trevor Belmont in Netflix's Castlevania series brought a surprising amount of heart to the traditionally blank role of the video game protagonist. We can't wait to see more of him in Season 2.
22. Okja (Okja)
For a CG super pig, Okja had a lot of personality. Even if Joon-ho Bong's Netflix original didn't turn you into a full-on vegan, it was hard not to fall in love with Okja.
21. Aquaman (Justice League)
Played by: Jason Momoa Normally the laughing stock of the DC Universe, Momoa's take on the amphibious superhero was quite the departure from his comic book counterpart but certainly one of the better parts of Justice League.
20. Jughead (Riverdale)
Played by: Cole Sprouse Jughead Jones, as portrayed in classic Archie comics, is little more than the hamburger-obsessed weirdo best friend of Archie Andrews. As the narrator, it's never clear exactly how much you can trust the things Jughead is saying or his version of the events. While this character, born on the wrong side of the tracks, is seemingly often the hero, who's to say that's not just how he wants the story to be remembered?
19. Vulture (Spider-Man: Homecoming)
Played by: Michael Keaton In the comics, Vulture is a pretty lame villain, but Spider-Man: Homecoming made him work exceptionally well. He's a sympathetic villain who has his faults that Keaton nails out of the park. If you haven't seen the movie yet, then you're missing out, because his turn during the third act comes out of nowhere.
18. Ivar the Boneless (Vikings)
Played by: Alex Høgh With the death of Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), there was a need for a new powerful warrior to rise on Vikings. Enter Ivar, the crippled son of Ragnar who's more bloodthirsty than his father ever was. Høgh's portrayal of Ivar breathed new life into the series as a polarizing main character you couldn't stop talking about. It's hard not to feel sympathy for him right up until the moment he kills his own brother in a fit of rage.
17. Dante (Coco)
Dante was much more than a lovable sidekick. He was Miguel's eyes, ears, and at times, sense of logic during their adventure in the Land of the Dead. Because the content in Coco was a bit heavy, dealing with death and the afterlife, Dante added a bit of much needed fun during Miguel's journey.
16. Mad Sweeney (American Gods)
Played by: Pablo Schreiber Mad Sweeney is the most entertaining leprechaun in all of television and movies--sorry, Warwick Davis's Leprechaun franchise. This antagonistic hot-head was one of the most entertaining parts of the first season of American Gods. The character may have some silly aspects about him, like his obsession with his coins, but Sweeney is unforgettable.
15. Ernesto de la Cruz (Coco)
Played by: Benjamin Bratt Ernesto de la Cruz is one of the most delightful villains you'll see in any film. Coco treats him as the true hero of the story, a larger-than-life deity figure that young Miguel is desperate to know and aspires to be like. When the truth comes out and he's revealed to be a fraud, his entire character unravels to reveal someone so sinister that you can't help but be terrified by him.
14. Ares (John Wick Chapter 2)
Played by: Ruby Rose The John Wick series is simply the best: better than all the rest. While the majority of the focus was on the titular character, Ruby Rose's Ares, a mute bodyguard, completely stole the show when she was on screen. It's proof that actions speak louder than words, as her character was cool but ultimately intimidating.
13. Evil Morty (Rick and Morty)
Played by: Justin Roilan There are a whole lot of Ricks and Mortys from infinite universes, but one of the best--and worst--has to be Evil Morty. The guy is incredibly twisted and evil--hence his name. He's killed off a multitude of other people and climbed his way to the top to be the President of the Citadel. You don't cross Evil Morty.
12. Joi (Blade Runner 2049)
Played by: Ana de Armas Joi is a hologram who exists in a world of replicants, yet it's easy for us humans to completely empathize with her, perhaps because of her total helplessness. She's not corporeal and must rely on Ryan Gosling's K to defend her--or rather, the device that projects her into the real world. It's this fleeting nature that makes her ultimate fate so sad, and the sexed-up Joi duplicate that much more upsetting later on.
11. Peter Parker (Spider-Man: Homecoming)
Played by: Tom Holland For the first time in cinematic history--aside from Civil War--Peter Parker finally looked and sounded like a high school student. Holland embodied what it's like to balance school and friendships all while being a superhero. Peter Parker was fun, silly, and reminded us all of our awkward times as a teenager. Finally, Spider-Man is fun again.
10. Steve Harrington (Stranger Things 2)
Played by: Joe Keery Steve Harrington was pretty unlikable in the first season of Stranger Things; however, he played a pivotal role in this year's season as a glorified babysitter and a father figure to Dustin. We got to see a new side to Steve, especially when faced with the new antagonist Billy Hargrove.
9. Rod (Get Out)
Played by: LilRel Howery Get Out, one of the best overall films of 2017, isn't a comedy, but LilRel Howery added some humor to break up the tension of the film. On top of that, he's probably one of the most loyal and best friends in the history of cinema. He'll take care of your dog and save you from your kidnappers.
8. Korg (Thor: Ragnarok)
Played by: Taika Waititi While the Thor: Ragnarok version of Korg was a huge departure from his comic book counterpart, Taika Waititi's portrayal of the warbound rockman was delightful and added yet another layer of comedy to the already hilarious film.
7. X-23 (Logan)
Played by: Dafne Keen X-23 didn't say much during Logan, but she didn't have to. This little mutant did all her talking with her fists--and adamantium claws. Audiences across the world cheered when she walked out and dropped a decapitated head onto the ground. When is the last time a little kid kicked so much butt?
6. Lady Bird (Lady Bird)
Played by: Saoirse Ronan Greta Gerwig is receiving much deserved praise for her directorial debut film Lady Bird. But the heart and soul of the film comes from Saoirse Ronan as the film's lead. The coming-of-age story focuses on Christine 'Lady Bird' McPherson, who longs to leave her Sacramento home for a new beginning in college on the east coast. Ronan delivers a complex and heartbreaking performance that will leave you wanting to immediately call a family member and tell them you love them.
5. Pennywise (It)
Played by: Bill Skarsgard Many people worried that the new incarnation of Pennywise would simply attempt to recreate Tim Curry's performance from the TV movie. However, that was not the case as Bill Skarsgard made the role his own, which led to a much scarier and intimidating version of Stephen King's classic monster.
4. Kylo Ren (Star Wars: The Last Jedi)
Played by: Adam Driver The Last Jedi showed that Kylo Ren is a much more complex and dynamic character than previously thought. His physical and emotional battles throughout the film were some of the highlights of the movie, and it was refreshing to see such a well-developed villain in this new Star Wars film.
3. Nora Durst (The Leftovers)
Played by: Carrie Coon Durst has always been a big part of The Leftovers, but the entire finale of the series centers around her story, in a "tell not show" monologue where the audience is left to wonder whether or not the narrator is reliable and trustworthy. She's a gripping and enthralling character that's emotionally complex and the best part of the HBO series.
2. June (The Handmaid's Tale)
Played by: Elizabeth Moss The Handmaid's Tale is a bleak, dystopian story, but there is one glimmer of hope during the first season, and that's June, played by Elizabeth Moss. She gives an award-winning performance as a handmaid who finds quiet ways to rebel against the system.
1. Wonder Woman (Wonder Woman)
Played by: Gal Gadot Gal Gadot's portrayal of Wonder Woman was the saving grace of 2017 for the DC cinematic universe. Gadot masterfully played the princess of Themyscira and gave the audience a few laughs with this fish-out-of-water story. In addition, she was one of the best parts of Justice League, which failed to hit its mark.
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 09:30 pm
Greatness Is Here
2017 was a memorable year for gaming, and PS4 possessed a fair number of varied and genre defining games that pushed their respective mediums forward. With great games from Western and Japanese studios such as Horizon: Zero Dawn, Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, Nioh, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, and Persona 5, the PS4 had a fantastic year. In this gallery, we're taking a look back at PS4 games that received a score of 8 or higher on GameSpot this year. See our 2017 PS4 Report Card for even more on the system and any games not listed here, and make sure to check out the rest of our Best of 2017 features.
Call of Duty: WWII -- 9/10
"Seen through the eyes of an American soldier and a few other Allies, this affecting story offers brief glimpses of how the Nazi occupation ravaged Europe and its people, including German civilians. It's emblematic of a game that--along with its multiplayer modes--delivers practically everything that one looks for in a pick-up-and-play shooter set in the Western Front of World War II while also breaking free of Call of Duty's formulaic trappings." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion, Editor
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age -- 9/10
"While its enhancements do not translate into a brand new game for existing fans, The Zodiac Age is nonetheless invigorating. For an experience that can last over a hundred hours, the subtle tweaks therein go a long way in showcasing Final Fantasy 12's grand trek in a new light. Its epic, lore-abundant story and its time-tested Gambit System should also appeal to those who missed out on the mainline series' trip to Ivalice the first time around. And thanks in part to the new audio and speed options, The Zodiac Age is an ideal definitive edition: one that improves the game over its original version across the board." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion, Editor
Horizon: Zero Dawn -- 9/10
"This is the first departure from the Killzone series for developer Guerrilla Games, and though you might think the team took a risk by stepping out of its FPS comfort zone to create a third-person open-world action game, you'd never know it was their first rodeo. For every minor imperfection, there's an element of greatness that recharges your desire to keep fighting and exploring Zero Dawn's beautiful and perilous world. Guerrilla Games has delivered one of the best open-world games of this generation, and redefined its team's reputation in the process." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
Gravity Rush 2 -- 9/10
"With a wealth of stories big and small to chew on, Gravity Rush 2 fulfills the needs of both a sequel and a prequel. The first Gravity Rush had enough going for it, but Gravity Rush 2 is stuffed with things to love. While its stealth missions are lame and it's disappointing to experience camera issues from time to time, Gravity Rush 2 excels in almost every other respect, making its predecessor seem quaint by comparison. This is easily one of the best video game sequels in recent memory, and an adventure truly worthy of its excellent lead character." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
Injustice 2 -- 9/10
"With AI battles, online and local versus matches, the diverse and ever-changing Multiverse, and an impressive story mode, Injustice 2 offers numerous ways of engaging with its characters and testing your abilities without feeling repetitive. This variety is further bolstered by gear. Despite the needlessly complex economy tied to item management, the value of customization and expression that comes with gear ultimately makes up for it. And with over 25 characters to explore, it's easy to look forward to watching your next character grow while your understanding of the game continues to expand. NetherRealm has delivered a fighting game that can be enjoyed by new players and pros alike in ways that go beyond pure competition. It's a bar that every fighting game should meet, but one that has up until now seemed out of reach." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Nier: Automata -- 9/10
"Thanks to Platinum Games' knack for riveting and gratifying combat, Automata is Yoko Taro's most exciting game to date. The combat mechanics click after hurdling a low learning curve, and the end result is a skillful dance where balletic dodges complement wushu-inspired aggression. Moreover, this multi-ending trip is generously peppered with surprises and revelations, as well as easter eggs that call back to the first game and the Drakengard series from which Nier spun off. It's a meaty, often exhilarating trek that showcases Platinum Games' and Yoko Taro's unique blend of genius." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Nioh -- 9/10
"Although the spectre of potential failure hangs heavy over any play session, dying in Nioh is never genuinely disheartening. This is thanks in part to the various avenues of character growth and many approaches you can utilize to tackle a difficult section or boss fight. It shouldn't be surprising that the foresight and patience needed to survive a battle in Dark Souls translates well to the fundamentals of samurai combat here. Nioh's most invigorating and intimidating moments occur when you feel you're at equal footing with your opponent. And it's during these encounters that one careless move can result in your demise or the right string of thoughtful actions can make you feel invincible." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Persona 5 -- 9/10
"Within Persona 5 is a complex set of interconnected gameplay mechanics, and in almost every aspect Atlus has executed on its vision exceptionally, barring the pacing issues towards the end. At every turn, it presents something to marvel at, whether it's the fluid combat, vibrant world, or the many memorable characters….It's stuffed to bursting point with gameplay ideas and presentation flourishes--there's an overwhelming level of artistry in every part of Persona 5, making it a truly standout entry in the series. It's a refined, effortlessly stylish RPG that will be talked about for years to come." [Read the full review] -- Lucy James
Pyre -- 9/10
"And thus it's all too easy to fall in love with Pyre. It's immediately attractive. Its songs dance in your head long after they debut. And before you know it, you find yourself driven to get better at rites and perform at the top of your game. Likewise, you can't help but reflect on your partners in the Downside--those you trained, as well as those you neglected. Supergiant Games has created something special that lives on in your heart. And against great odds, it's invented a sport that could have stood on its own without the story it's attached to--but it's so much better because it is." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
Sonic Mania -- 9/10
"Sonic Mania methodically uses its sentimental appeal to great effect, but in the process, it heals the wounds inflicted by its most disappointing predecessors and surpasses the series' best with its smart and interpretive design. An excellent 2D platformer, Sonic Mania goes beyond expectations, managing to be not only a proper evolution of the series' iconic formula, but the best Sonic game ever made." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli
Uncharted: The Lost Legacy -- 9/10
"The Lost Legacy doesn't signify a new era for Uncharted so much as it presents an opportunity to show the series from new perspectives, for which Chloe and the AI-controlled Nadine are perfectly capable. With a new playable treasure hunter comes new settings and character motivations, wrapped in a comfortingly familiar Uncharted package. The thrill of playing through set pieces that call back scenes from the earlier games is all the more enhanced when seen through the gameplay mechanics introduced in A Thief's End. The initial hours of The Lost Legacy give an "Uncharted Greatest Hits" vibe, but it grows into a more nuanced, clever experience, ranking among the best in the series while also making its own mark as a standalone Uncharted that isn't anchored to Nathan Drake's harrowing exploits." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
What Remains of Edith Finch -- 9/10
"Developer Giant Sparrow managed to strike the delicate balance between joy and sorrow in 2012's The Unfinished Swan, but What Remains of Edith Finch transcends even the latent sadness of that game, finding the beauty--even sometimes the fun--in what's always fundamentally a tragedy. It's not often that a game's plot slips past the bitterness of grief to finally get to the acceptance, but that's the triumph in What Remains of Edith Finch. Ultimately, if the game has any resemblance of a moral, it's that the bravest, most beautiful thing every one of us does is choose to keep going, despite knowing what's coming." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Wipeout Omega Collection -- 9/10
"By focusing on this specific era of the series, Wipeout Omega Collection maintains a level of cohesion you wouldn't get if this compilation included, say, Wipeout Pure or Fusion. While each of the three games exude style and stimulation in their own distinct ways, they collectively showcase the best elements of franchise's engrossing racing and silky smooth visuals. And even though it doesn't completely scratch the itch that only a completely new PS4 sequel can offer, this collection is easily the next best thing." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus -- 9/10
"The New Colossus never lets you forget who and why you're fighting. Nazi brutality is on full display, from the blown-out, irradiated remains of Manhattan to each of the resistance members, who all carry mental scars if not physical ones. You're never given a chance between cutscenes, missions, and even downtime on the U-boat to lose sight of the Reich's cruelty. Wolfenstein's tense gameplay elevates this further by giving you the power to truly resist--and come out of each battle ready for another fight." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge
Everybody's Golf -- 8/10
"Longtime fans will find comfort in the familiar controls and deep progression system, while newcomers will find the on-boarding experience easy and welcoming. Between the lengthy career mode and online play, you are never short of competition to test your nerves. And no matter how ridiculously superhuman your linksman skills become--there are awards for getting a hole in one on a par-5, after all--Everybody's Golf's strict adherence to the sport's strategic underpinnings is never compromised." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice -- 8/10
"Hellblade's most notable achievement is the handling of an incredibly sensitive subject matter within an engaging and well-crafted action/adventure game. At its heart, the story is about Senua's struggle to come to terms with her illness. In the process, she learns to find the strength within herself to endure, and to make peace with her past. And in a profound and physical way, we go through those same struggles with her, and come away with a better understanding of a piece of something that many people in the world struggle with." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari
Gran Turismo Sport -- 8/10
"Ultimately, where you fall on GT Sport will mirror how you feel about racing games in general. If you're looking for a highly focused console racing sim, GT Sport is excellent, but don't come looking for a robust "Gran Turismo" experience. You won't find it. Casual fans will feel the pinch of the scaled-down offering and the intimidating push towards racing online. But for sim-racers with a competitive spirit, it's easy to look past the smaller car and track roster and appreciate the incredibly detailed and responsive driving model, which is better than anything the series has offered before." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
MLB The Show 17 -- 8/10
"MLB The Show 17 continues the series' fantastic tradition of consistency and refinement. Improvements to its various game modes give you more ways to play the game how you want to, and the action on the field has never been better, with smarter fielding AI, and enhanced ball physics that bring the hitting to life. Commentary is still a little too stilted for my liking, and there are other blemishes lurking throughout. But when you connect with a fastball and send the ball spiralling into a gap in center field, any issues retreat to the back of your mind. This is America's National Pastime at its best." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard -- 8/10
"By the end of the campaign, I was ready for the game to be over, but that's okay. RE7 ends just as it starts to outstay its welcome, and after the fact, I felt like I'd survived a truly harrowing journey. The boss fights may be slightly inconsistent and certain sections might drag after a while, but RE7 is still a remarkable success. It has a clear vision and executes it with impressive patience and precision. By returning to horror, Resident Evil has once again become something special." [Read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
Yakuza 0 -- 8/10
"Unless you have a strong aversion to violence, sex, or middling graphics, you owe it to yourself to give Zero a chance. Its story will surprise you, its inhabitants will make you laugh at every turn, and its ambitious scope will redefine how you think about open-world games. It's a fascinating adventure no matter how you approach it, and it's proof positive that a game can be wildly inconsistent yet remain a great experience." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
By Kallie Plagge on Dec 22, 2017 09:30 pm
Switch It Up
The launch of the Nintendo Switch on March 3 marked the beginning of a banner year for Nintendo. With The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild as its standout launch title, the Switch quickly rose to the top of console sales charts and dramatically increased Nintendo's revenue. And the best part is that there's no shortage of great games to play on the new hybrid console, from the big first-party staples like Zelda and Mario to great indie games like Stardew Valley and Golf Story. In this gallery, we're taking a look back at Switch games that received a score of 8 or higher on GameSpot this year. That includes two 10s--meaning "essential" on GameSpot's scale--and updates to reviews of older games that were ported to Switch. See our 2017 Nintendo Report Card for even more on the system and any games not listed here, and make sure to check out the rest of our Best of 2017 features.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild -- 10/10
"No matter how gorgeous its environments are, how clever its enemies are, and how tricky its puzzles get, the fact that Breath of the Wild continues to surprise you with newfound rules and possibilities after dozens of hours is by far its most valuable quality. It's a game that allows you to feel gradually more and more empowered yet simultaneously manages to retain a sense of challenge and mystery--which, together, creates a steady, consistent feeling of gratification throughout the entire experience. Breath of the Wild is a defining moment for The Legend of Zelda series, and the most impressive game Nintendo has ever created." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Super Mario Odyssey -- 10/10
"Odyssey is sustained beyond its major milestones not only through colorful worlds and hidden challenges, but through the sheer joy of controlling Mario, who's never felt more responsive or dynamic in action. Even with everything new that's been introduced, Nintendo's forward-thinking platformer retains the series' classic handcrafted appeal, which is even more impressive when you realize how densely packed each kingdom is. Mario's latest outing is big, bold, and bursting with new ideas, and like Breath of the Wild, is another instance of Nintendo going above and beyond to redefine our expectations. It's a shining example of refined creativity, and another crown jewel for Switch that is without equal." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle -- 9/10
"Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle exudes off-beat optimism that never dissolves. It's a consistent delight, no matter how challenging the road becomes, because Kingdom Battle's unique turn-based tactics system is in every way a pleasure to engage with. Coupled with the annoyingly infectious allure of Rabbids, and the always delightful, colorful world of the Mushroom Kingdom, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is an implausibly engrossing formula that is positively challenging and endlessly charming." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe -- 9/10
"For Mario Kart fans, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe might look like more of the same with small Double Dash-inspired tweaks. But thanks to a series of updates both big and almost unseen, it's the version of Mario Kart to get. If you don't own a Wii U or skipped out on Mario Kart 8 the first time around--or even if you've played it before--Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is worth your time. It plays beautifully on Switch in both handheld and docked mode, and its core racing is as exciting as ever. And, most notably, it completely revamps the original's lackluster Battle Mode, rounding out an already great racing game." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Rocket League -- 9/10
"For people new to the game, they have a lot to look forward to regardless, as it's one of the most fascinating sports games in memory. Nevermind if you don't like soccer or couldn't care less about the growing esports community. Rocket League is a unique game that redefines the concept of what a sports game can be, and Psyonix continues to support it with new content on a regular basis. It's been around for a while, but now that it's on Switch, there's no better time to give it a shot." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Sonic Mania -- 9/10
"Sonic Mania methodically uses its sentimental appeal to great effect, but in the process, it heals the wounds inflicted by its most disappointing predecessors and surpasses the series' best with its smart and interpretive design. An excellent 2D platformer, Sonic Mania goes beyond expectations, managing to be not only a proper evolution of the series' iconic formula, but the best Sonic game ever made." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Stardew Valley -- 9/10
"The sheer number of things to accomplish in Stardew Valley can keep you interested beyond the original three in-game years you need to reach the end of your story--you may just want to start over rather than continue on. You'll work quite hard to gather enough money for your first horse, so that you can quickly move to the mines to get a mineral to complete a bundle at the community center. It's all centered around whatever it is you want to accomplish that day. And that's truly what makes Stardew Valley such a lovely experience, it encourages you to go out and be the best you can be, in whichever task that brings you the most joy. Stardew Valley motivates naturally, with blissful optimism." [Read the full review] -- Mary Kish
SteamWorld Dig 2 -- 9/10
"Every advancement Dig 2 makes to its story and mechanics strengthens your initiative to progress. There's an overwhelming sense of momentum that runs through the adventure; as if developer Image & Form sifted the original in a pan, removing its redundancies while expanding upon what made it so fun to persistently play. In your quest to acquire every upgrade and explore every nook and cranny, there's no shortage of hidden collectables to discover. And with post-game content that unlocks after you unearth every secret, the desire to keep digging intensifies. Dig 2 manages to not only be an exceptional successor, but a great adventure in its own right. Where the first game was a diamond in the rough, Dig 2 is a polished jewel." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim -- 8/10
"The original version of Skyrim is still an immense, engrossing RPG, and the quality, number, and variety of its quests makes it as easy to become lost in its world as ever. With the addition of Zelda-themed gear that's actually useful--and the fact that you can play anywhere--the Switch version of Skyrim is a great excuse to revisit a much-loved RPG." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Golf Story -- 8/10
"It can take a little while for the narrative to ramp up in Golf Story and for you to feel like you've really cultivated the skills of a champion, but based on the sheer scope of what the game delivers, there's likely something for everyone to enjoy whether their shtick is mini-golfing or terrorising delinquents with frisbees. It has successfully captured the trappings of yesteryear's RPGs, and the witticisms and idiosyncrasies of the characters you encounter are a great palate cleanser between rounds. Switch has had a swathe of indies hit its eShop recently, but if you're looking for something that'll give you satisfaction in terms of an interesting story and a rewarding mechanic, then Golf Story is certainly par for the course." [Read the full review] -- Ginny Woo
Gorogoa -- 8/10
"Few games take the concept of altering reality to as artistic a level as Gorogoa. This labor of love made chiefly by one developer is a gorgeous and intriguing puzzle game that works because of its stunning art and intelligent puzzle design. Far from a traditional game, Gorogoa is a slow and methodical trip into the surreal." [Read the full review] -- Jason D'Aprile
Mr. Shifty -- 8/10
"Mr. Shifty isn't a huge game in terms of length, but the three- to four-hour campaign is ample. It's like a shot of adrenalin, offering an exciting, intense experience, and it's easy to forgive the game's performance flaws when it so consistently makes you feel like a badass." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor
NBA 2K18 -- 8/10
"NBA 2K18 is a hardcore sports simulation. If you want to get good, you have to put in the work. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to improve your skills no matter how you want to play. And the fact that there's so much to do is a bonus, because on the court, NBA 2K18 is also an amazingly well-crafted experience." [Read the full review] -- Seth Macy
Puyo Puyo Tetris -- 8/10
"Overflowing with colorful personality, Puyo Puyo Tetris revels in its weirdness. It provides solid versions of both puzzle games and merges the two in bizarre, frantic ways that adds a fresh dash of style to these long-running series. With an array of game variations spanning single-player, along with on- and offline multiplayer, it's an incredibly meaty package that should satisfy gamers for a long time to come." [Read the full review] -- Jason D'Aprile
Rive -- 8/10
"Rive is demanding, but it pushes the kind of near-thoughtless play that shoot-em-ups strive to achieve. When faced with an onslaught of enemies and environmental hazards, you'll have to think fast or die. Rive also doesn't run all that long, but what's here is excellent, top-notch action, and the game delivers some of the most memorable moments in a shoot-em-up in years." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment -- 8/10
"Specter of Torment is a finely-crafted 2D platformer that is satisfying in all respects. Simply controlling Specter Knight--flying through the air and slicing through enemies--is a joy in itself, and being able to push your ability to control these skills in overcoming the game's cleverly-designed and challenging levels is always an exhilarating feeling. Specter of Torment is a focussed, polished, and satisfyingly challenging game that's well worth experiencing whether or not you've had the pleasure of playing Shovel Knight." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor
Splatoon 2 -- 8/10
"At first glance, Splatoon 2 seems very similar to the first game. But all the small changes, and even the bigger ones in single player and League Battles, make for a fresh take on the already unique shooter. If you played a lot of the original, the sequel has enough to keep you coming back, and if you're new to the game, it's a fantastic place to jump in." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 09:30 pm
Time To Upgrade The Rig
2017 was a memorable year for gaming, and the PC proved that the platform still possesses a number of varied, and genre-defining games. With great games such as Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, Rez Infinite, and Divinity: Original Sin II--which earned a rare 10 score from GameSpot--the PC had a stellar year, and proved once again that it can stand side-by-side with the current competition. In this gallery, we're taking a look back at PC games that received a score of 8 or higher on GameSpot this year. Given the number of stellar releases from this year, the games of 2018 will have a lot to live up to. See our 2017 PS4 Report Card for even more on the platform, and make sure to check out all our Best of 2017 features for more.
Divinity: Original Sin II - 10/10
"From lonely farmhouses through pitched battles with gods in far-flung dimensions, Divinity: Original Sin II is one of the most captivating role-playing games ever made. Its immaculately conceived and emotion-wrought fantasy world, topped by brilliant tactical combat, make it one of the finest games of the year thus far, and it has to be regarded as an instant classic in the pantheon of RPG greats." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd
F1 2017 - 9/10
"Codemasters has been on a roll with its F1 series for a number of years now, and F1 2017 feels like the culmination of those years of work. Where F1 2016 lacked a little on the career side, F1 2017 more than makes up for that and then some more. An improved multiplayer set up, a greater variety of race options and straight-up better cars to drive, on top of the stellar career mode and thrilling on track racing experience make F1 2017 simply the best Formula One game ever made." [Read the full review] -- James Swimbanks
Night In The Woods - 9/10
"From beginning to end to epilogue, Night in the Woods is ultimately open to individual interpretation. How you relate to it depends on your own experiences and choices, including Mae's dialogue and who you decide to spend time with. Though its charming and angsty story works well on its own merits, it's special because of how it prioritizes conveying emotion over telling a straight narrative." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge
Observer - 9/10
"Cyberpunk is a reflection of where we're headed as a society, an oddly alluring reality where we've allowed impressive technology into our lives at the cost of our humanity. This is a niche genre that needs new revisions and new pioneers so it can keep evolving as we inch closer to seeing its fictional warnings play out in real life, and Observer adds to the familiar parables in fascinating and unexpected ways. In that respect, and on so many other levels, Observer is a haunting and remarkable achievement." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Rayfield
Pyre - 9/10
"And thus it's all too easy to fall in love with Pyre. It's immediately attractive. Its songs dance in your head long after they debut. And before you know it, you find yourself driven to get better at rites and perform at the top of your game. Likewise, you can't help but reflect on your partners in the Downside--those you trained, as well as those you neglected. Supergiant Games has created something special that lives on in your heart. And against great odds, it's invented a sport that could have stood on its own without the story it's attached to--but it's so much better because it is." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown
Rez Infinite (Review Updated After PC Launch) - 9/10
"Some games are timeless. Rez is one of them. Set in a cyberspace landscape riddled with bugs, you guide your tiny figure on a quest to awaken the mysterious being lying dormant within in. To get to her, you must shoot through hordes of technicolor, swirling viruses that lob projectiles and try to block your path. But it's not the narrative that makes this game incomparable; Rez is a rail shooter on paper and a heart-pounding synesthesia joyride in practice." [Read the full review] -- Alexa Ray Corriea
SteamWorld Dig 2 - 9/10
"Every advancement Dig 2 makes to its story and mechanics strengthens your initiative to progress. There's an overwhelming sense of momentum that runs through the adventure; as if developer Image & Form sifted the original in a pan, removing its redundancies while expanding upon what made it so fun to persistently play. In your quest to acquire every upgrade and explore every nook and cranny, there's no shortage of hidden collectables to discover. And with post-game content that unlocks after you unearth every secret, the desire to keep digging intensifies. Dig 2 manages to not only be an exceptional successor, but a great adventure in its own right. Where the first game was a diamond in the rough, Dig 2 is a polished jewel." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli
Super Rude Bear Resurrection - 9/10
"For all of these minor gripes, none of them stand in the way of enjoying nearly every second of playtime. On the strength of its pacing and basic mechanics alone, Super Rude Bear Resurrection would make for an extremely engaging platformer. The addition of its corpse mechanic elevates it to something greater, allowing it to simultaneously serve as an extreme challenge for the most diehard platforming fans as well as a game that can be enjoyed by the novice crowd. Super Rude Bear Resurrection demands a lot from you, but the satisfaction of success is immense in the end." [Read the full review] -- Chris Pereira
Torment: Tides of Numenera - 9/10
"Torment wants you to dig through its hamlets and delve into its dungeons on your own. It isn't about cutting down waves of foes, it's not about being the one true hero, and it's not wish fulfillment. Narrative is an end in itself. Story is the everything, and the play that backs that story, while minimal, gives the experience a weight that's too often lost in other games. Torment defines itself as codified opposition to current trends, but that's also not all it is. Using pools of points to set limits on its players and driving player expression through curiosity are novel additions to one of gaming's oldest genres. Taken together, Torment is far more than just a phenomenal role-playing game. It's a challenge to restore the depth and nuance for which the genre was once known." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Total War: Warhammer II - 9/10
"With Warhammer II, Total War doesn't reinvent anything so much as it iterates on the ideas that made the first so special. At its heart there's still the marriage of Total War's big-scale strategy and Warhammer's precise tactical play. But, through a thousand tiny tweaks, they've refined the experience into one of the most intriguing and exciting strategy games ever." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus - 9/10
"The New Colossus never lets you forget who and why you're fighting. Nazi brutality is on full display, from the blown-out, irradiated remains of Manhattan to each of the resistance members, who all carry mental scars if not physical ones. You're never given a chance between cutscenes, missions, and even downtime on the U-boat to lose sight of the Reich's cruelty. Wolfenstein's tense gameplay elevates this further by giving you the power to truly resist--and come out of each battle ready for another fight." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen - 9/10
"Everything that Chosen brings--from the elite soldiers to the deeper connections between your squads--feels like a living part of the XCOM universe. If you like your deep strategy and brutal turn-based tactics alongside brilliant interplay between camp and emergent drama, there is none better." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Destiny 2 -- 8/10
"In true Destiny fashion, if you do something once, you'll probably end up doing it many more times. The difference with Destiny 2 is in the variety and accessibility of what's available, which cuts down on a lot of the frustration associated with grinding. And even after you've leveled up, there's still more you can do, from keeping up with daily and weekly challenges to just hanging out with friends. It's a much stronger foundation than the original had and one that's enough on its own to keep people coming back week after week." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge
Dishonored: Death Of The Outsider -- 8/10
"Dishonored: Death Of The Outsider is a solid, inventive, yet somewhat subdued capper to the stories from the previous Dishonored games. While the smaller scope can be felt throughout, the approach to allowing players to express themselves as a master assassin is just as strong as ever. It's uncertain where the series can go from here, but this stand-alone release proves that Dishonored is still a remarkably designed stealth-action game with much potential, that offers players the chance to be creative in ways they'd least expect." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari
The Evil Within 2 -- 8/10
"Though there's some occasional technical hiccups that result in some particularly frustrating moments and weird pacing issues, this horror sequel elevates the tense and impactful survival horror experience in ways that feel fresh and exciting. What this cerebral horror game does isn't totally new, but it rarely feels routine, and offers plenty of surprises. Coming in at a lengthy and surprisingly packed 15-hour campaign, the sequel does an admirable job of ratcheting up the tension and scares when it needs to, while also giving you the freedom to explore and proceed how you want. It's a tough thing to balance, but The Evil Within 2 does it remarkably well, and in a way that leaves a strong and lasting impression after its touching conclusion." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari
Lawbreakers -- 8/10
"One sign of any worthwhile team-based shooter is a level of accessibility where everyone feels they can contribute no matter their play style, and Lawbreakers succeeds in this manner. And while the lack of Deathmatch is a lost opportunity, its sufficient playlist of modes offers a viable outlet to flaunt your kill/death ratio, even if it's at the expense of team success. What counts is that its fresh anti-gravity mechanics transcends its first-glance novel appeal and creates limitless combat situations that will be new and inviting to many shooter fans." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard -- 8/10
"By the end of the campaign, I was ready for the game to be over, but that's okay. RE7 ends just as it starts to outstay its welcome, and after the fact, I felt like I'd survived a truly harrowing journey. The boss fights may be slightly inconsistent and certain sections might drag after a while, but RE7 is still a remarkable success. It has a clear vision and executes it with impressive patience and precision. By returning to horror, Resident Evil has once again become something special." [Read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 09:30 pm
They can't all be winners.
So many amazing movies came out in 2017. Get Out and It showed that horror movies can still surprise, whether they're brand new or based on something old. Blade Runner 2049 became the sequel we didn't know we needed, and Coco made us cry more than when Han Solo died. They can't all be winners, though. 2017 was also filled with absolute duds--movies so bad they should never have been allowed to exist in the first place. Here are 56 of them--every film that scored below a 40 on review aggregator site Metacritic during 2017. How many of them did you see, and what would you do to get that time back? Read on!
56. My Little Pony: The Movie (score: 39)
55. Jigsaw (score: 39)
54. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (score: 39)
53. First Kill (score: 39)
52. Queen of the Desert (score: 39)
51. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (score: 39)
50. All Eyez on Me (score: 38)
49. Youth in Oregon (score: 38)
48. Woodshock (score: 38)
47. Tulip Fever (score: 38)
46. Psychopaths (score: 37)
45. Baywatch (score: 37)
44. The Secret Scripture (score: 37)
42. The Bye Bye Man (score: 37)
41. Blind (score: 36)
40. The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature (score: 36)
39. Rupture (score: 35)
38. Camera Obscura (score: 35)
37. Birth of the Dragon (score: 35)
36. The Assignment (score: 34)
35. Bitter Harvest (score: 34)
34. The Dark Tower (score: 34)
33. Sleepless (score: 34)
32. The Mummy (score: 34)
31. Despite the Falling Snow (score: 33)
30. The Only Living Boy in New York (score: 33)
29. Collide (score: 33)
28. The Space Between Us (score: 33)
27. Fifty Shades Darker (score: 33)
26. The Shack (score: 32)
25. Wish Upon (score: 32)
24. Kill Switch (score: 31)
23. The Book of Henry (score: 31)
22. Absolutely Anything (score: 31)
21. Friend Request (score: 31)
20. The House (score: 30)
19. Daddy's Home 2 (score: 30)
18. Literally, Right Before Aaron (score: 28)
17. The Crash (score: 28)
16. Transformers: The Last Knight (score: 28)
15. CHIPS (score: 28)
14. Once Upon a Time in Venice (score: 28)
13. Flatliners (score: 27)
12. The Ottoman Lieutenant (score: 26)
11. Arsenal (score: 25)
10. Rings (score: 25)
9. Underworld: Blood Wars (score: 23)
8. The Snowman (score: 23)
7. A Family Man (score: 21)
6. Geostorm (score: 21)
5. Just Getting Started (score: 21)
4. Tyler Perry's Boo 2! A Madea Halloween (score: 17)
3. The Last Face (score: 16)
2. The Layover (score: 15)
1. The Emoji Movie (score: 12)
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 05:02 am
Strategic Approach
Across a multitude of genres, there were plenty of high-quality games to play in 2017. For strategy fans, this year offered several games with complex systems that were as rewarding as they were mechanically substantial. Whether you were looking for real-time strategy, turn-based strategy, or any sub-genre in-between, there was a game for you. In this gallery, GameSpot is taking a look back at some of the best strategy games from this year that got a score of 7 or above on GameSpot. Click forward to see 2017's best-reviewed strategy games, and make sure to check out all our Best of 2017 features for more.
XCOM 2: War Of The Chosen (PC, PS4, Xbox One) -- 9/10
"Everything that War of the Chosen brings--from the elite soldiers to the deeper connections between your squads--feels like a living part of the XCOM universe. If you like your deep strategy and brutal turn-based tactics alongside brilliant interplay between camp and emergent drama, there is none better." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Endless Space 2 (PC) -- 8/10
"Any way you look at it, Endless Space 2 is one impressive achievement even taking into account the above paragraph of what are fairly minor gripes given how much this game does extremely well. 4X space sims have long been known as the territory of the serious strategy gamer, but Amplitude has broken away from the pack here. Outstanding depth and tactical challenge have been preserved, although not at the expense of the strong storytelling needed to emphasize the sense of awe and wonder in galactic exploration that's always been a huge part of the genre's appeal. Amplitude has done a masterful job combining these two elements into a single game, where the quests and strategy and politics and economy are all tied into a whole much greater than the sum of its parts." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd
Fire Emblem: Shadows of Valentia (3DS) -- 8/10
"Fire Emblem Echoes is a fantastic remake and a striking departure from modern Fire Emblem staples. What it lacks in interpersonal character relationships and user-controlled "shipping," it makes up for in meaty, challenging strategy gameplay, engaging exploration sequences, and a tighter overall narrative. Taken both on its own and as part of the larger Fire Emblem franchise, Echoes's unique elements help it stand out from its contemporaries. If you feel like you're up to a lengthy, engaging challenge, then Echoes will satisfy in spades." [Read the full review] -- Heidi Kemps
Gigantic (PC) -- 8/10
"Gigantic may not exactly be wildly innovative, but its likable characters and tactical depth are impressive enough to make an old formula feel fresh again. These key core elements, plus the vital ingredient of a healthy fan base that guarantees you'll pretty much always be able to find a match, make the game stand out, even among the crowded free-to-play MOBA genre." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd
Steel Division: Normandy '44 (PC) -- 8/10
"Pinning down enemies with suppressing fire is a blast. So, too, is a well-executed offensive that cracks and divides enemy front lines. The adrenaline of pulling together a coordinated attack is priceless, and Steel Division is all about chaining these moments together, directed as they are by an aggressive tie to historical realism. If there's one failing here, it's that the game doesn't offer many chances to explore that rich field on your own before jumping into multiplayer matches. But when it all comes together in the perfect match, Steel Division's magic is undeniable." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Tooth And Tail (PC, PS4) -- 8/10
"Tooth and Tail is a bizarre cocktail of a dozen great ideas. It's a minimalist RTS that tosses out complex tech trees in favor of action-packed but accessible play. It's set vaguely in Eastern Europe in the 1910s, with both the Russian Revolution and World War I in full swing. Playing up the grim tumult of the era, Tooth and Tail also casts itself with all manner of cute--though ragged and crestfallen--critters. With so many disparate items, it's a wonder that Tooth and Tail manages to work at all, but it excels with but a few minor blemishes." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Total War: Warhammer II (PC)
"With Warhammer II, Total War doesn't reinvent anything so much as it iterates on the ideas that made the first so special. At its heart there's still the marriage of Total War's big-scale strategy and Warhammer's precise tactical play. But, through a thousand tiny tweaks, they've refined the experience into one of the most intriguing and exciting strategy games ever." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III (PC) -- 8/10
"An odd chimera of its forebears, there's a lot in this fast-paced RTS that's a little bit off. Parts of the interface don't work sometimes, inter-match army management is half-baked, and the micromanagement needed to use the game's signature hero units effectively doesn't jibe with the extensive base-building you'll need to support them. But those problems fall away when you're in the heat of battle. Dawn of War III builds and maintains an organic tension that yields huge pay-offs, and there's nothing else quite like it." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Distrust (PC) -- 7/10
"If everything goes according to plan and you aren't backed into an inescapable corner, you're looking at a roughly six-hour playthrough. That may seems short, but chances are the vagaries of Distrust's randomization will leaving you taking much longer to reach its end, and even after six hours you'll feel as though you've survived a trial by fire. Victory is a warm feeling in this world of cold. As Casper might tell us in his Shakespeare-quoting reveries, the challenge makes crossing the finish line feel all the most rewarding, "lest light winning make the prize light." [Read the full review] -- Leif Johnson
By GameSpot Staff on Dec 22, 2017 03:12 am
Sports! Sports! Sports!
There was an abundance of fantastic games to play in 2017. For sports fans, this year brought a multitude of top-tier sports games. While there were a fair number of solid entries from many well-known long-running sports game franchises, like Madden and NBA 2K, there were a few notable games in less popular sports, like Cricket and Golf. In this gallery, GameSpot is taking a look back at some of the best sports games from this year that got a score of 7 or above on GameSpot. Click forward to see 2017's best-reviewed sports games, and make sure to check out all our Best of 2017 features for more.
Football Manager 2018 (PC) -- 9/10
"For a game that's so consuming you might not even realise the sun's gone down, it feels almost irresponsible to proclaim that giving you more things to do is a resounding positive. Yet the way these new and overhauled systems coalesce with Football Manager's deep and emotional fundamentals is fantastic. The series' propensity for telling emergent stories has only increased with this emphasis on player personalities and morale, and it bleeds into every other facet of Football Manager 2018's design, from transfers and injuries, to team selection and tactical considerations. These are changes that tilt the simulation closer to reality with captivating aplomb, and ensure that the armchair managers among us are kept busy for another whirlwind 12 months of 40-yard screamers and cup final heartbreak." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling
Madden NFL 18 (PS4, Xbox One) -- 9/10
"Overall, Madden 18 marks an unusually large shakeup in a series that, due to its annualized releases, rarely features much more than small, iterative changes. The Frostbite engine allows the game to reach new levels of realism in its visuals, and EA has put a lot of effort into constantly evolving the game to keep it in line with real-world events. But it is the Longshot story mode that defines Madden 18. Some of Longshot is unnecessary spectacle, but its lasting value comes from the humanity that it brings to the game. The moments of vulnerability and sincerity between Devin Wade and Colt Cruise during the story are worthy of celebration and give the overall game a weight that Madden hasn't had before. And if that's not enough to entice you, it's also simply a terrific football game." [Read the full review] -- Alex Newhouse
Everybody's Golf (PS4) -- 8/10
"Longtime fans will find comfort in the familiar controls and deep progression system, while newcomers will find the on-boarding experience easy and welcoming. Between the lengthy career mode and online play, you are never short of competition to test your nerves. And no matter how ridiculously superhuman your linksman skills become--there are awards for getting a hole in one on a par-5, after all--Everybody's Golf's strict adherence to the sport's strategic underpinnings is never compromised." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
MLB The Show 17 (PS4) -- 8/10
"MLB The Show 17 continues the series' fantastic tradition of consistency and refinement. Improvements to its various game modes give you more ways to play the game how you want to, and the action on the field has never been better, with smarter fielding AI, and enhanced ball physics that bring the hitting to life. Commentary is still a little too stilted for my liking, and there are other blemishes lurking throughout. But when you connect with a fastball and send the ball spiralling into a gap in center field, any issues retreat to the back of your mind. This is America's National Pastime at its best." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling
NBA 2K18 (PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch) -- 8/10
"Basketball is a way of life, and each year, NBA 2K is a big part of that cultural movement. Real NBA players worry about their NBA 2K ratings. This year's entry is incredible in so many ways, from graphics, to soundtrack, to the different modes and ways to play hoops. It becomes clear early on that the fastest and easiest way to progress is by spending real money, slightly marring an otherwise tremendous experience." [Read the full review] -- Seth Macy
Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 (PC, PS4, Xbox One) -- 8/10
"And yet, when you get onto the pitch, no other football game feels as good as PES 2018. The slower pace is a definite improvement, helping tread the line between realism and fun near-perfectly. There's just something about the players' movement and the kinds of arcs the ball makes in the air that's just so pleasant to control--every pass, header, and shot just feels right. And when it clicks, and you score a thunderous strike from the edge of the area or finish off a slick passing move or even when you launch an ugly long ball forward to grab a last-gasp winner, it's the closest feeling you'll get to being out there scoring yourself." [Read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus
Ashes Cricket (PC. PS4, Xbox One)
"Ashes Cricket has definitely got its issues; bad commentary, some rough presentation, only two licensed teams and a few bugs. But ultimately they can be shaken off, because the feeling of enjoyment I get when I'm playing Ashes Cricket is palpable. I haven't played or watched the sport in over 10 years, but sitting down to play here feels intuitive and familiar in a way that's surprisingly comforting. The batting, bowling and fielding all feel better than they have in any other cricket game before, and the sheer variety of game types and customisation offered makes Ashes Cricket, in spite of its issues, a sports game worthy of your time." [Read the full review] -- James Swinbanks
FIFA 18 (PS4, Xbox One) -- 7/10
"It's off the pitch that EA excels. From the variety of game modes on offer and how everything's presented, to the constant updates in FUT's Team of the Week, Daily Objectives, and discussion of real-world happenings in commentary, FIFA 18 captures the world of football and confidently translates it into a video game. On the pitch, however, EA's soccer series is still lagging far behind PES 2018's more fluid, satisfying football. This year's improvements are welcome, but more needs to be done in the coming years if FIFA is to be a world-beater once again." [Read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus
NBA Live 18 (PS4, Xbox One) -- 7/10
"NBA Live 18 is a welcome return for EA's basketball series, but doesn't come close to matching the greatness of NBA 2K11 or 2K16. By contrast, the strengths of The One underscore the uninspired designs of Franchise and Ultimate Team. These mainstays are fine and functional, but feel dated when held up against their deeper counterparts in Madden and NHL. That's not to say this game is short on replayability. Between the WNBA matches and the position variety of The One, NBA Live 18 succeeds--albeit barely--as a viable alternative to NBA 2K18." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
NHL 18 (PS4, Xbox One) -- 7/10
"There's still a lot to love about NHL 18, even if the core on-ice experience has only seen minor tweaks. The new modes bring variety to the gameplay, with NHL Threes standing out as a fast-paced, fun way to play hockey. No matter what the mode, gameplay is fast, responsive, and rewarding. And those fresh to the franchise won't feel lost, as NHL goes out of its way to make sure you get up to speed with training, tutorials, and on-screen hints. New players are sure to feel welcome, but for any series veterans, NHL 18 still has some room to improve." [Read the full review] -- Seth Macy
Steep: Road to the Olympics (PC, PS4, Xbox One)
"As it is, the moments where Road to the Olympics shines are when you're shredding through waist-deep powder at breakneck speeds through a picturesque glade, or careening from the very peak of a mountain down through ravines and all the way to the base far below. The new mountain is beautiful and features a good number of opportunities, and it's a welcome expansion of Steep's playable territory. The Olympic events, meanwhile, provide nice diversions when you really want to compete against yourself. The DLC's main feature--the narrative journey to the Olympics--is flawed, unfulfilling, and frustrating, but thankfully there's enough to do elsewhere that Road to the Olympics still helps bolster and revitalize Steep's main appeal. It's good to have a new mountain to throw yourself down." [Read the full review] -- Alex Newhouse
By Alex Newhouse on Dec 22, 2017 02:58 am
Destiny 2's holiday event, The Dawning, is now live on PS4, Xbox One, and PC, and it adds a whole bunch of new stuff for you to check out. From decorations, to snowballs, to armor, to the absurd Mayhem mode in Crucible, there's a lot to do and earn in The Dawning. We've gathered up images of all the items that the event adds and put them in this gallery for quick reference. You'll immediately notice that The Dawning is taking place when you jump into Destiny 2. Winter has come to the Farm and the Tower, where decorations abound and snow covers the ground. At these social spaces, you can take a break by throwing snowballs at your friends. The snow has fallen throughout the rest of the game, too, as you'll notice when you run Strikes. There, the snowballs actually have a use: you can throw them at enemies to stun them and deal damage. In The Crucible, meanwhile, Mayhem is back. The crazy, chaotic game mode gives you a ridiculously fast cooldown timer on your Super attack, and it tasks you with causing as much destruction to the other team as you can. Completing Mayhem matches and Strikes aren't just for fun, either: new Milestones have been added that award a Dawning engram per week. These engrams contain a bunch of new gear, which we've showcased in this gallery. Finally, The Dawning adds a gifting and receiving function to Destiny 2. Unfortunately, you can't give gifts to other players--but you can give them to vendors and receive cool items in return. The Dawning will run for the next few weeks; it's currently scheduled to end on January 9. In other Destiny 2 news, Bungie has recently detailed upcoming changes to both the Three of Coins buff and the Masterworks weapon system.
Giving (Emote)
A History of Starflight (Ship)
Chill of Winter (Sparrow)
Holiday Cheer (Sparrow)
Winterhart Cover (Warlock Helmet)
Winterhart Robes (Warlock Chest)
Winterhart Gloves (Warlock Arms)
Winterhart Boots (Warlock Legs)
Winterhart Helm (Titan Helmet)
Winterhart Plate (Titan Chest)
Winterhart Gauntlets (Titan Arms)
Winterhart Greaves (Titan Legs)
Winterhart Mark (Titan Class Item)
Winterhart Mask (Hunter Helmet)
Winterhart Vest (Hunter Chest)
Winterhart Grips (Hunter Arms)
Winterhart Strides (Hunter Legs)
Winterhart Cloak (Hunter Class Item)
Infinite Hand Ghost Shell
Winter Lotus Ghost Shell
Jasper Dawn Ghost Shell
Dawning Hope Shader
Dawning Warmth Shader
Dawning Festiveness Shader
By Chris E. Hayner on Dec 22, 2017 02:11 am
30. Doom
Few actors in Hollywood are harder working -- or more marketable -- than the iconic Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. With even more of his blockbusters around the corner, we thought there was no better time than to rate the action hero's entire filmography. To start, let's consider the truly terrible video game movie Doom. In theory, a sci-fi movie featuring The Rock fighting alien demons sounds like a winner. Unfortunately, though, it just didn't translate to the big screen. This film received a 34 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
29. Tooth Fairy
When it comes to Johnson's time starring in family movies, this is the bottom of the barrel. The Rock plays a hockey player that that becomes the Tooth Fairy as a form of punishment. Even with all the charisma the actor can muster, this movie turned out boring and predictable. This film received a 36 on Metacritic. (Image credit: 20th Century Fox)
28. Be Cool
While most of this sequel to Get Shorty is forgettable, its one shining spot is Johnson's turn as bodyguard Elliot. The role led to some very funny comedic moments, proving the wrestler is more than just a tough guy. This film received a 37 on Metacritic. (Image credit: MGM)
27. Baywatch
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, Johnson has adapted the classic-yet-very-silly TV series Baywatch for the big screen. The movie is a whole other kind of silly, thanks to many R-rated antics that miss out on the campiness that made the original so special. This film received a 38 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
26. Planet 51
Moana isn't Johnson's first time voicing a cartoon. In Planet 51, he plays an astronaut on a mission to save alien life on another planet. The problem is it didn't aim to be more than a kid's movie, leaving the end result not all that interesting. This film received a 39 on Metacritic. (Image credit: TriStar Pictures)
24. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (tie)
Johnson has made quite a career of joining franchises in progress, with this movie being one of the earliest examples. Replacing Brendan Fraser, who starred in the first Journey film, Johnson is paired with a much younger cast and gets to play action hero for one of the first times. This film received a 41 on Metacritic.
24. G.I. Joe: Retaliation (tie)
Stepping into the spotlight as the film's lead allowed Johnson the chance to lead a very fun blockbuster movie, even if it was nothing like the cartoon fans grew up watching. Then again, after the first G.I. Joe film failed to deliver on fan expectations, there wasn't much hope for that anyway. This film received a 41 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
23. San Andreas
Who better to battle a monstrous earthquake than The Rock? San Andreas put the actor against Mother Nature herself in a disaster movie that sees the destruction of California. It's a big, mindless, wild affair that somehow makes you forget he plays a firefighter who abandons the people he's supposed to be saving to steal a helicopter and save his own child. This film received a 43 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Warner Bros.)
19. Southland Tales (tie)
Director Richard Kelly's sci-fi epic is remembered fondly... by practically nobody. It should be, though. Johnson's Boxer Santaros, an action movie star with amnesia, helps set the stage for one of the most unique post-apocalypse worlds one could imagine. Unfortunately, it totally bombed at the box office. This film received a 44 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films)
19. Faster (tie)
This is Johnson's final movie before appearing in Fast Five, turning him into a bonafide box office success. It showed a distinct move away from family movies--a step in the right direction to redefining his career. This film received a 44 on Metacritic. (Image credit: CBS Films)
19. The Game Plan
Given that his co-star was an eight-year-old, you can guess how good this movie was--or wasn't. Johnson plays a cocky professional quarterback who finds out he has a daughter nobody ever told him about. From there's, it's pretty formulaic: He hates it and he doesn't want to ruin his image, but he ends up falling in love with being a dad. Go figure. This film received a 44 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures)
19. Walking Tall (tie)
If you're waiting for a buddy cop comedy starring Johnson and Jackass alum Johnny Knoxville, you're in luck: It already exists! Walking Tall was never going to win Oscars, but it's exactly what it should be: Lots of fun, very funny, and loaded with Johnson kicking butt. This film received a 44 on Metacritic. (Image credit: MGM)
17. Pain and Gain (tie)
This definitely isn't the movie you'd expect from a collaboration between Johnson and Transformers director Michael Bay. The action-comedy teams him with Mark Wahlberg, and the chemistry between them is instant and hilarious. There are plenty of gratuitous shots of them pumping iron, too. This film received a 45 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
17. The Scorpion King (tie)
Johnson's first leading role spun his character from The Mummy Returns off onto his own adventure. While it may not have been as memorable as The Mummy, it did spawn some direct-to-DVD sequels, letting Hollywood know that Johnson was taking his movie career seriously. This film received a 45 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
16. Hercules
With two Hercules movies released in 2014, Johnson's turn as the mythical son of Zeus was clearly the better one. While the wig he wore throughout was laughable at times, it's not hard to believe that the very muscular actor has the character's power and might. This film received a 47 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
15. The Mummy Returns
This was Johnson's first substantial film role and the one that ignited his aspirations to become the biggest movie star on Earth. Of course, his Scorpion King is a very dated CGI creation that looks downright silly now. This film received a 48 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
14. Snitch
You can't blame Snitch for being an underappreciated and little-remembered Johnson movie--after all, it was just one of five movies he released in 2013. That said, it casts the former wrestler as a dad going undercover with the DEA, a simple enough action plot for Johnson to elevate. This film received a 51 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Summit Entertainment)
11. Gridiron Gang (tie)
Gridiron Gang is a movie people have seen a million times: A nice guy helps mentor at-risk youth to help them achieve more from life. In this case, it's through football. This movie was the beginning of Johnson's descent into family-friendly movies that ultimately led him to play the Tooth Fairy. This film received a 52 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Columbia Pictures)
11. Race to Witch Mountain (tie)
Remaking a Disney classic like Race to Witch Mountain is tough going. That said, this version turned out as good as one could hope--possibly even better. Johnson comes across like the leading man he is and while the movie is aimed at kids, it's also entertaining for adults. This film received a 52 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures)
11. Central Intelligence (tie)
Putting one of action's biggest stars together with one of comedy's biggest stars for an action-comedy worked perfectly with Central Intelligence. It allowed both actors to stretch outside of their comfort zones, delivering a very successful film. It also left the door open for sequels. So get on it, Hollywood. This film received a 52 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Warner Bros.)
10. Get Smart
It's not often you see Johnson in a supporting role but, go figure--he knocked it out of the park in Get Smart. He also got the opportunity to play a bit of a villain in this classic TV remake, to very funny results. This film received a 54 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Warner Bros.)
9. The Fate of the Furious
The latest edition in the Fast & Furious franchise pits Johnson and the team against Vin Diesel's Dominic Toretto, which is appropriate given their reported feud on the movie's set. Though it may be the least cohesive entry in the franchise, Johnson and co-star Jason Statham have plenty of great scenes together. This film received a 56 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
8. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
While Welcome to the Jungle is by no means perfect, this pseudo-sequel is a fun trip to the theater. Almost all of its charms are due to a cast -- Johnson stars with Karen Gillan, Jack Black and Kevin Hart -- that has ridiculously good chemistry together. This film received a 58 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Columbia Pictures)
7. The Rundown
Otherwise a fairly by-the-numbers action movie, the chemistry between Johnson and co-star Seann William Scott makes it standout. Little known fact: The film's original title was Helldorado, which sounds a lot more badass. This film received a 59 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
6. Fast & Furious 6
After being adversaries in Fast Five, Johnson and Diesel become allies in the sixth installment of the franchise. It also introduced the Shaw family, who would go on to become central figures in future movies. Above all that, however, this movie will be best remembered as the one where they crash a car through an airplane. This film received a 61 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
5. The Other Guys
While he may not have survived the first half of the movie, Johnson and co-star Samuel L. Jackson certainly made their marks as the rock star cops most desk jockeys only dream of being. This film received a 64 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Columbia Pictures)
4. Fast Five
Johnson's arrival to this epic franchise signaled a big change from street racing-centric stories to general action plots that take the crew all around the world. Strangely enough, Johnson's Luke Hobbs is a bit of a villain in this, but he still goes on to become one of the family. This film received a 66 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
3. Furious 7
The best movie in the Fast & Furious franchise is also the most heartbreaking. Actor Paul Walker died during the movie's production, leaving the creative team with the task of finding a way to write his character out. In the end, the movie is an emotional affair that delivers in every single way. It's also the movie that fully integrates Johnson's character into the family. This film received a 67 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
2. Beyond the Mat
Before he was a movie star, Johnson was one of the subjects of this excellent wrestling documentary. Released during WWE's famed Attitude Era, the film showed the behind-the-scenes realities of professional wrestling and put the spotlight on the I Quit match between The Rock and Mankind, which resulted in severe injuries for the latter. This film received a 73 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)
1. Moana
While Planet 51 may not have set the world on fire, Moana sure did. Johnson, in the role of demigod Maui, joins Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) on her adventures through the ocean. He also has his own song called You're Welcome, which is positively perfect. This film received a 81 on Metacritic. (Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures)
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