5. Fifa 10:

Fifa 09 changed the trend for Electronic Arts and took the mantle of best soccer game from Konami’s Pro Evolution series. Fifa 10 builds on top of an already great game with their new 360 control system. In addition a multitude of other minor adjustments have been made that improve the AI of computer. They have also improved defenders and goal keepers to make for a much more balanced game. This culminates into a richer experience.

Besides the numerous features and skills, the game has a natural feel to it which makes it easy to pick up and play for novice players as well. The great and thorough online play furthers the experience and longevity.

4. Shadow Complex:

Shadow Complex revisits the 2D shooter genre that has taken a backseat in the world of 3D and open worlds. But the game is also a strong testament of the importance of quality over technical achievement. This 2D game is simplistic in nature but its action, adventure and exploration provides for a highly addictive experience.

Speaking of technical achievements, the game looks stunning. Its audio complements the great visuals and keeps the game on par with other high quality games. For a measly $15, it’s a downright steal.

Full review here. 

3. Batman: Arkham Asylum:

When it comes to making video games based on popular licenses, the gaming industry as a whole should learn from the success of Rocksteady Studios. Most game developers make the mistake of only focusing on the protagonist and the star of the show. Instead of simply creating a game based on Batman, the studio clearly did their homework by learning the ins and outs of the rich Batman universe and all its characters.

This results in a game that offers a very authentic Batman experience. By using a great script and hiring the right cast for the vocals, they managed to recreate and bring the rivalries between Batman and his enemies to the gaming medium.

Full review here. 

2. Modern Warfare 2:

Dodging falling helicopters, making getaways in snowmobiles, chasing gang members in the cities of Brazil and infiltrating oil rigs are just some of the things you take part in during the campaign for Modern Warfare 2. Although lasting only six hours, the campaign offers a greater adrenaline rush and action packed gameplay than the best shooters with standard length campaigns.

Special Ops mode offers an impressive variety of 25 missions that allow the thrill to be experienced in 2-player co-op. Its competitive multiplayer opens up even more customization options that even extend to kill streak rewards. Its levelling system offers a high level addiction that had only previously been reserved for RPGs.

Full review here. 

InsightBits Game of the Year: Assassin’s Creed 2:

Saying that Assassin’s Creed 2 is a major improvement over the first Assassin’s Creed would be a slight understatement. In addition to addressing the issues of repetition by offering a great variety in primary missions, the also game makes an assortment of tools and techniques available to the players.

Furthermore it also has two great side missions that have the player adventure through mysterious tombs and also keep an eye out for markings left by subject 16 that provide insight into the present period (Desmond’s time year 2012).

This parallel story telling of past and present is strengthened by a great script and direction. The story is definitely one of the most remarkable things about Assassin’s Creed 2. It’s a story that follows Ezio from his teenage years to the time he becomes a full fledged assassin. The game does a great job in providing details into the assassination targets and their roles which lead to death of Ezio’s father and brothers. This attaches a certain amount of emotion to them. This steady paced story leads to a very satisfying and fulfilling experience.

Assassin’s Creed 2 is a great example of that shows the prospect of video games having a better ability to tell a story compared to movies that is primarily due to the latter’s lack of time and interactivity. 

Full review here.