Red Dead Redemption 2 is the game that everyone is talking about right now – and though the western wonder might technically be a prequel, it’s been hailed as one of the greatest follow-ups in gaming history. There’s other contenders for that particular crown though; we’ve selected a handful of standouts from the past year or two that could give it a run for its money…
DESTINY 2
PC, PS4, Xbox One
The original of the species boasted superb gameplay but a disappointing story – so when its successor combined the best of the first with a spectacular story and a new emphasis on exploration, you can bet we were tickled all manner of colours!
WOLFENSTEIN II: THE NEW COLOSSUS
PC, PS4, Xbox One
The timeless series took a new direction in 2014, and last year’s unbelievable update hit brand new heights! Glorious guns and mega-mechanics both present and absolutely correct, the real step forward was in creating characters to sink your teeth into; an iconic game suddenly got even better!
ASSASSIN’S CREED ODYSSEY
PC, PS4, Xbox One
There’s more instalments in the series than we can count at this point, but if you’re looking for the very best, then this is your only man! A full-blown action RPG, it has an open world and characters beyond anything achieved before, and the combat is more exhillarating too – the full package, then!
MONSTER HUNTER: WORLD
PC, PS4, Xbox One
The established series relies on complex strategy and in-depth roleplay – all well and good, but that means newbies can find it all a bit much. The latest chapter, though, is the most accessible of the bunch, with none of the trademark nuances sacrificed; that’s what we call a win-win!
CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS 4
PC, PS4, Xbox One
Blackout mode – need we say more?! The classic core of the first-person shooter remains intact (even if there’s no campaign mode this time around) but it’s the inclusion of what might be the very best battle-royale in gaming that puts this one over the edge; call up 99 of your best mates and dive in!
PILLARS OF ETERNITY II: DEADFIRE
PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
The FPS had its work cut out to top what we’d seen in the first incarnation, but latest is a more-than-welcome upgrade! It looks spectacular, and succeeds in creating a geunienly immersive atmosphere – and with smart stories, an expansive world and cracking side quests to boot, it’s epic in every way!
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