As 2021 comes to a close, it’s worth taking some time to look back at the best games of the year. Alongside big blockbuster hits, 2021 also brought a strong lineup of indie games, offering a variety of styles to suit every taste. Whether you’re into shooters, RPGs, adventure, or hack-and-slash, this year had it all. If you’re hunting for fresh games to dive into before the year ends or want to expand your collection, here are the top 15 best games of 2021.
Scarlet Nexus
Scarlet Nexus launched to warm reception but never quite hit mainstream popularity, which is a huge miss. This game features one of the best combat systems of 2021, truly clever and engaging. It also offers well-developed characters and an ambitious story that hits you right in the feels.
If that’s not enough, the soundtrack is absolutely killer. Plus, Scarlet Nexus’s striking art style perfectly complements the audio-visual experience. This is one game you definitely have to try.
Halo Infinite
FPS games had a quieter year in 2021, but Halo Infinite came through as a true savior. While it carries the strengths and weaknesses typical of the Halo series and this installment, it still delivers an incredibly fun experience.
The multiplayer is free-to-play with a solid selection of maps and weapons, offering both chill moments and enough challenge for hardcore players. The single-player campaign is now open-world style, putting you back in Master Chief’s shoes as you search for answers about Cortana. With more updates planned, the end of 2021 is a perfect time to jump in.
Lost Judgment
Lost Judgment is an action-adventure game from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, famous for the Yakuza series. Although it’s not as popular as Yakuza, it’s one of the standout games of 2021. Some say the original Judgment offered a better experience, but Lost Judgment still delivers a gripping and engaging story.
The game improves on the unique 3D combat system from its predecessor, giving you a seriously cool feeling like you’re the king of Tokyo’s streets. Plus, you get a new companion, a Shiba Inu dog. What could be better?
Final Fantasy 14: Endwalker
Endwalker is the fourth and final expansion wrapping up the Hydaelyn and Zodiark saga in Final Fantasy 14. Though technically an expansion, its content is massive. Square Enix rarely disappoints, and even with an MMORPG like Final Fantasy 14, they nailed it.
If you started playing from A Realm Reborn and stopped, it’s worth giving Final Fantasy 14 another shot. The game has evolved and transformed a lot since then, now standing as one of the most popular and respected entries in the series. That’s why Endwalker easily makes the list of best games in 2021.
Guilty Gear Strive
Guilty Gear Strive isn’t just a top-tier fighting game, it’s one of the best games of 2021 overall. It features a unique and memorable cast, each with their own fighting style and controls.
The graphics are stunning, and the soundtrack is intense and thrilling. Together, they create an unmatched experience for fighting game fans in 2021.
