While covering PAX Prime 2014 we were given the chance to see a wide
assortment of games from publishers large and small. Some were close to
being released and others had only recently begun their production cycle.
As such, we have comprised a list of the best games of the show based on
visual appeal, originality, and overall fun to play.
The games are listed in alphabetical order as I at times find it difficult
to crown one game a winner over another when you are playing unfinished
code, and the final games, can and do differ when release dates roll
around.
Alien Isolation
Sega
This game really impressed me at E3 and subsequent experiences at Comic
Con and PAX Prime have done nothing but increase my excitement for this
survival horror game set in the Alien universe.
Battlecry
Bethesda
A team based game from a third person perspective that offers the twist of
being in a land where gunpowder was never discovered. Fast paced and at
times brutal, players fight one another to control strategic locales with
a variety of characters with different weapons and abilities.
Bloodborne
Sony
This creepy atmospheric game is part God of War and Part Dark Souls but is
so much fun to play. Although only given a taste of the final game, the
mix of cutting edge graphics, blood spattering weapons, and fast paced
moves makes this one to watch.
Borderlands: The Pre Sequel
2K
Take the fun of the Borderlands series and add in low gravity lunar
combat, oxygen resources, and a new batch of eccentric and at times,
homicidal enemies and playable characters and you have the makings of a
winning combination.
The Evil Within
Bethesda
Creepy, atmospheric, and disturbing, this game has all the parts to be a
massive hit. The promise of future DLC that lets players experience the
game from the perspective of other characters only ads to the intrigue.
EVOLVE
2K
This game keeps looking better and better. Even though my time as the
monster glitched out a few times allowing my wife and others to hunt me
down, the 5 player game of four unique hunters stalking an ultimate
killing machine is impressive in every detail and so much fun.
Far Cry 4
Ubisoft
Highly detailed maps, tons of weapons, wild animals, and a mini copter to
fire death on your enemies from above is what this game offers and more.
There is also the matter of being able to climb mountains, take over
vehicles, and co-op play.
Heroes of the Storm
Blizzard
We have been following this one since we first learned of it two Blizzcons
ago. It looked great then it looks and plays amazing now. With tons of
characters from Warcraft, Diablo and Starcraft at your disposal and tons
of mission options in gloriously HD maps, this is a fan’s dream brought to
life.
Shadow of Mordor
Warner Bros/Monolith
Set in the Lord of the Rings universe, fans play as a Ranger with an
impressive set of skills as you complete quests and eliminate various Orc
Warlords. With the ability to charm enemies and animals and a hierarchy
system that keeps the enemies from being generic fodder, this eye popping
action game is one to watch.
The Order: 1886
Sony
While I wonder how much of the final game is play and how much is
cinematic and rail driven, the graphics and concept for this game made it
very appealing. Action and a Steampunk style setting combine to give
gamers a title to watch.
Until Dawn
Sony
This was a very nice surprise at the show. A combination horror and
mystery game where players use their control to manipulate objects and
search for clues. There were some very jump inducing moments for some
during the demo and the graphics really made this one stand out.
