Top 5 Games of 2013 (So Far)

Ok, so we're halfway through the year, and I'd like to take a look back at the best games thus far:


5)  Company of Heroes 2  (PC/Relic Entertainment)

The sequel to the breakthrough 2006 real-time strategy game proves to be its predecessor's equal, be it in a different setting.  It's a legendary franchise series among the PC gaming community, and rightfully so.  Set in World War II, players can now click away and strategize on the Eastern Front as the Soviet Red Army battles German forces.  You'll have your hands full all summer with this title, that's for sure.

4)  Tomb Raider  (PC, Xbox360, PS3/Square Enix)

The reboot of one of the most famous video games in history proves to be a success.  Crystal Dynamics was wise to develop a new title in the series.  The game breaks away from the original story, digging deep into the roots of lead character Lara Croft, who has to save her friends from a vicious cult.  The cut-ins are classic, and the gameplay is top notch, as always.

3)  Minecraft Xbox 360 Edition (Mojang/Microsoft)

Hey gamers, don't laugh:  Minecraft is kicking some major ass in the gaming world, and it's only offered on ONE game console platform.  Since the spring of last year, more than 7 million copies have been sold.  It's SO good for Microsoft that it's coming to Xbox One.  Personally, I love the fact that an indie title has made it so big like this.  The number don't lie.  People love this.

2)  Bioshock Infinite (PC, Xbox 360, PS3, OS X/Irrational Games/2K Games)

I had a blast with this first person shooter.  The Bioshock Series is high quality gaming.  While Infinite might not have the been the best in the series (IMO), there aren't many games that come close to its quality and gameplay.  Infinite keeps your interest with its mysterious plot, and it certainly has an intriguing ending that still has me thinking.  There's nothing like battling a freakish, frightening cultural faction that Bioshock provides.  I THOUGHT this was the game of the year...until another came along...

1)  The Last of Us  (PS3/Naughty Dog)

You won't find a finer, new title out there.  Yes, it's only offered on the PS3 platform, and if you don't have it...GET it for this game alone.  Not only is the gameplay smooth and thrilling, so are the cut scenes that grab your attention and, quite frankly, your emotions as you're taken on a Walking Dead-like post-apocalyptic journey with Joel and Ellie.  Even if you're not a gamer, you could literally watch someone else's gameplay and still get the same enjoyment and satisfaction as you would with a feature film.  Yes, it's that good.


It's been a good year...and there's more to come


The B Gamer is a video game reviewer at 77 WABC in New York City
Twitter:  @thebgamerpd
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