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There’s no denying that 2018 was a great year for gaming, with the likes of Red Dead Redemption 2, Marvel’s Spider-Man and God of War all releasing to critical acclaim.
And while we may be nearing the end of 2019, we still think it’s important to appreciate the biggest and best games PC, PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch games of last year. (Sorry mobile!)
So if you missed the boat on some of these great releases, and are maybe considering picking then up for cheap during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then we have you covered.
Prefer to stick to more recent games? Check out our list of the best games of 2019.
So, without further ado, here are the best games of 2018.
[ul]
[li]PS4 fan? Why not check out the best games on PS4 right now[/li][li]Or, if you’re a member of the Xbox family, why not take a look at our best Xbox One games[/li][li]Nintendo Switch has some fantastic games and these are the best of them[/li][li]We can’t forget the old faithful platform: these are the best PC games right now[/li][li]Strapped for cash? Why not try the best free games instead[/li][/ul]
When did it come out? January 26, 2018
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
Monster Hunter is a franchise that’s been going for a long time but for the first time in seven years we’re seeing it released on consoles. A global release that unties its fanbases in all markets, this is a game that will appeal to newcomers and veteran players alike.
In our Monster Hunter World review, we called the game a “bold and confident new chapter” for the franchise and it’s our first “must-have” game of 2018. We also have a tips and tricks guide that will help you to make your mark on the New World.
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When did it release? March 20, 2018
The Xbox One doesn’t have a large number of exclusives on its roster but this has been one of the biggest ones. It’s been a while since we’ve seen something big and new from development studio Rare and we really can’t wait to dive back into a charming world with a distinct sense of humor.
This is an online co-op extravaganza that will see you create your very own pirate, form a crew with your friends and go on wild adventures across a wide open world.
[ul]
[li]Want more info? Check out our in-progress Sea of Thieves review[/li][li]Already playing? Why not read our tips and tricks guide[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When did it release? March 27, 2018
Far Cry 5 caused controversy before it was even released thanks to its close-to-home setting of Montana, America. When the small town of Hope County is taken over by a violent doomsday cult known as Project at Eden’s Gate, it’s up to you to become the new Deputy Sheriff and take them out. Expect violence, chaos and a whole lot of fun from this one.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? April 20, 2018
The PlayStation exclusive God of War franchise returned earlier this year, moving away from the Greek myths to the Norse and turning the legendary lone wolf Kratos into something of a father figure. This revamped God of War has more of a focus on narrative than anything we’ve seen from the series but the hack and slash god fighting still remains.
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? April 27, 2018
It’s a concept that’s so utterly Nintendo, we’re pretty sure no other company could pull it off. Nintendo Labo was first announced in early 2018 and it’s captured the imagination of kids and grown-up kids alike. Nintendo Labo is a collection of DIY cardboard kits which can be used with the Nintendo Switch to create an entirely new kind of play.
Players can play cardboard pianos, use cardboard handles to control an on-screen motorbike, and step into the cardboard shoes of a giant robot. The potential seems endless and cements the Switch as one of the most individual consoles on the market and a must-have for families.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? May 25, 2018
The latest PS4 exclusive game from writer David Cage, this is a game courted some controversy with its themes. The script took two years to write and hundreds of actors have lent their faces for motion capture.
[ul]
[li]Read our full review of Detroit: Become Human right here[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? June 22, 2018
Mario Tennis Aces for the Nintendo Switch is a flashy arcade tennis game with plenty of special moves to master, and playing against someone that’s the same skill level as you is one of the most tense, frantic multiplayer battles you’ll have all year.
If you can regularly get a few friends round—or sort out a time to play together online—then you won’t regret buying Mario Tennis Aces, because the moment-to-moment play is the perfect platform for fast, competitive matches.
[ul]
[li]Read our full review of Mario Tennis Aces[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When did it release? August 10, 2018
Yes, yes, Madden comes out EVERY SINGLE YEAR but that doesn’t make last year’s gridiron sim any less special, as it’s one of the series’ best in the last decade. Changes to the passing game make it just as easy to throw a game-winning touchdown as it is to throw a pick, making defense more fun to play than ever.
On top of the basic franchise and MUT versus modes, the addition of new solo challenges provides a fun new stream of content, enabling you to compete against teams put together by celebrities, athletes and the developers themselves.
Some of the commentary tracks have been carried over from last year and some of the best branching story decisions from Longshot have been cut, but overall this the football game both veterans and rookies alike can appreciate.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? September 7, 2018
Marvel’s Spider-Man did not disappoint when it released last year, offering the strongest narrative and most fluid web-swinging of any Spider-Man game to date.
Whether you’re swinging through New York, taking down some familiar enemies or searching for all the collectables, Spider-Man will provide hours of superhero action.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch
When did it release? September 28, 2018
Last year’s addition to the FIFA franchise saw the introduction of the Champion’s League to the soccer sim alongside the return of The Journey single-player mode.
Though FIFA 19 makes no groundbreaking changes, it does offer an add a series of small adjustments (such as the Active Touch system) that continue to push the series in the right direction.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When did it release? September 14, 2018
Shadow of the Tomb Raider sees intrepid explorer Lara Croft racing through South America in an attempt to stop the Mayan apocalypse. You know, just the usual.
Not straying far from previous entries in the series reboot, Shadow of the Tomb Raider includes all the puzzles, exploration and hostile environments you come to expect from a Tomb Raider game.
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When did it release? October 2, 2018
Forza Horizon 4 has been somewhat of a surprise success. The open-world racing adventure lets you tour the stunning sights of Britain, from lavender fields to quint English cottages. There’s even a dynamic weather system which changing according to the seasons.
In addition, Forza Horizon 4 offers a shared multiplayer mode which lets you race and explore with friends.
What can I play it on? Xbox One, PS4 and PC
When did it release? October 12, 2018
Fans were concerned when Activision revealed Black Ops 4 wouldn’t have a single-player mode, but the title more than makes up for it with the introduction of the new Battle Royale Blackout mode along with the return of fan favorite modes such as Multiplayer and Zombies.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When did it release? October 26, 2018
Voted TechRadar’s most highly-anticipated game of 2018, Rockstar’s latest outing was one biggest releases of 2018.
The Wild West adventure sees you stepping into the shoes of outlaw Arthur Morgan, a gunslinger in the notorious Van Der Linde Gang. With a vast open world, varying terrains, and activites ranging from bounty hunting to fishing, RDR2 will keep you busy for a while.
What can I play it on? Xbox, PS4, PC
When can I play it? November 20, 2018
After taking a year out in 2017, Battlefield is making a return in 2018 with Battlefield V (or 5), set in World War 2.
The game will see the return of War Stories, with some brand new multiplayer modes and the introduction of a live service element which will keep the game fresh long beyond its release.
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When can I play it? November 16, 2018
Pokemon Let’s Go is a set of spin-off Pokemon games which will launch on Nintendo Switch in November 2018. These games will integrate Pokemon RPG gameplay with mechanics from the mobile game Pokemon Go to create an adventure that’s accessible for new and younger fans.
Players will return to the Kanto region where they’ll be able to catch and battle Pokemon alone or with a friend in co-op mode. There are a lot of new ways to play Pokemon in these releases and you can read more about them here.
[ul]
[li]Read everything we know about Pokemon Let’s Go right here[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4 and Xbox One
When can I play it? January 25, 2019
Given it’s been 12 years since Kingdom Hearts 2 was released, it’s safe to say Kingdom Hearts 3 is one of the more highly anticipated titles for 2018. Once more players will take up the role of Sora as he travels with his closest friends Donald and Goofy across a variety of world themed around and populated by a host of famous Disney and Final Fantasy characters.
There’s going to be plenty of familiar sights and faces but we’re really excited to see the brand new Toy Story world.
[ul]
[li]Here’s everything we know about Kingdom Hearts 3[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4
When can I play it? 2019
Considering the first game has been continually hailed as a masterpiece thanks to its excellent, emotional story and engaging life-like characters, the decision to develop The Last of Us Part 2 isn’t actually all that surprising. This time around Ellie takes up the starring role and we’re being promised a much darker game with an even bigger story.
[ul]
[li]Want more information? Here’s the latest on The Last of Us Part 2[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When can I play it? February 2019
It was supposed to be one of the key launch titles for the Xbox One X in November 2017 but Crackdown 3 will now be a big 2018 exclusive for the console. The main selling point of the Crackdown franchise is destruction and in this game’s online multiplayer mode every part of the game’s city is open to destruction thanks to a cloud-based physics calculations system.
[ul]
[li]Want more info? Here’s everything we know about Crackdown 3[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When can I play it? 2019 or 2020
Revealed at E3 2017, this game was basically pitched as Assassin’s Creed Black Flag with the assassin bits removed. That leaves the naval warfare and in Skull and Bones you’ll find yourself engaging in single-player and online multiplayer seafaring adventures. Think Sea of Thieves but a bit more geared towards gritty realism.
Though it was originally slated for a 2018 release, it was pushed back in May 2018 to Ubisoft’s next financial year which means it could be launched anytime between April 2019 and March 2020.
[ul]
[li]Read everything we know about Skull and Bones so far[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When can I play it? November 14, 2018
There are mixed feelings among fans about the latest upcoming addition to the Fallout franchise, which sees the series hitting an online platform for the first time. While Bethesda promises the gameplay we’ve grown to love about the series, some remain unconvinced the West Virginia wasteland will deliver the same thrill.
[ul]
[li]Fallout 76 release date, beta, multiplayer, trailers and news[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? December 7, 2018
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly took the Nintendo Switch to new heights, bringing Nintendo’s much loved characters to a fighting platform once more.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate packs in more fighters, more stages, more gameplay modes, and more tactical elements of any game in the franchise. This is, for all intents and purposes, the definitive Super Smash Bros., with everything that entails – and plenty of juicy Smash Bros DLC (Joker! Piranha Plant! Banjo-Kazooie!) to keep you occupied after you’ve unlocked the main roster of fighters.
Continue reading…
And while we may be nearing the end of 2019, we still think it’s important to appreciate the biggest and best games PC, PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch games of last year. (Sorry mobile!)
So if you missed the boat on some of these great releases, and are maybe considering picking then up for cheap during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then we have you covered.
Prefer to stick to more recent games? Check out our list of the best games of 2019.
So, without further ado, here are the best games of 2018.
[ul]
[li]PS4 fan? Why not check out the best games on PS4 right now[/li][li]Or, if you’re a member of the Xbox family, why not take a look at our best Xbox One games[/li][li]Nintendo Switch has some fantastic games and these are the best of them[/li][li]We can’t forget the old faithful platform: these are the best PC games right now[/li][li]Strapped for cash? Why not try the best free games instead[/li][/ul]
When did it come out? January 26, 2018
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
Monster Hunter is a franchise that’s been going for a long time but for the first time in seven years we’re seeing it released on consoles. A global release that unties its fanbases in all markets, this is a game that will appeal to newcomers and veteran players alike.
In our Monster Hunter World review, we called the game a “bold and confident new chapter” for the franchise and it’s our first “must-have” game of 2018. We also have a tips and tricks guide that will help you to make your mark on the New World.
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When did it release? March 20, 2018
The Xbox One doesn’t have a large number of exclusives on its roster but this has been one of the biggest ones. It’s been a while since we’ve seen something big and new from development studio Rare and we really can’t wait to dive back into a charming world with a distinct sense of humor.
This is an online co-op extravaganza that will see you create your very own pirate, form a crew with your friends and go on wild adventures across a wide open world.
[ul]
[li]Want more info? Check out our in-progress Sea of Thieves review[/li][li]Already playing? Why not read our tips and tricks guide[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When did it release? March 27, 2018
Far Cry 5 caused controversy before it was even released thanks to its close-to-home setting of Montana, America. When the small town of Hope County is taken over by a violent doomsday cult known as Project at Eden’s Gate, it’s up to you to become the new Deputy Sheriff and take them out. Expect violence, chaos and a whole lot of fun from this one.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? April 20, 2018
The PlayStation exclusive God of War franchise returned earlier this year, moving away from the Greek myths to the Norse and turning the legendary lone wolf Kratos into something of a father figure. This revamped God of War has more of a focus on narrative than anything we’ve seen from the series but the hack and slash god fighting still remains.
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? April 27, 2018
It’s a concept that’s so utterly Nintendo, we’re pretty sure no other company could pull it off. Nintendo Labo was first announced in early 2018 and it’s captured the imagination of kids and grown-up kids alike. Nintendo Labo is a collection of DIY cardboard kits which can be used with the Nintendo Switch to create an entirely new kind of play.
Players can play cardboard pianos, use cardboard handles to control an on-screen motorbike, and step into the cardboard shoes of a giant robot. The potential seems endless and cements the Switch as one of the most individual consoles on the market and a must-have for families.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? May 25, 2018
The latest PS4 exclusive game from writer David Cage, this is a game courted some controversy with its themes. The script took two years to write and hundreds of actors have lent their faces for motion capture.
[ul]
[li]Read our full review of Detroit: Become Human right here[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? June 22, 2018
Mario Tennis Aces for the Nintendo Switch is a flashy arcade tennis game with plenty of special moves to master, and playing against someone that’s the same skill level as you is one of the most tense, frantic multiplayer battles you’ll have all year.
If you can regularly get a few friends round—or sort out a time to play together online—then you won’t regret buying Mario Tennis Aces, because the moment-to-moment play is the perfect platform for fast, competitive matches.
[ul]
[li]Read our full review of Mario Tennis Aces[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When did it release? August 10, 2018
Yes, yes, Madden comes out EVERY SINGLE YEAR but that doesn’t make last year’s gridiron sim any less special, as it’s one of the series’ best in the last decade. Changes to the passing game make it just as easy to throw a game-winning touchdown as it is to throw a pick, making defense more fun to play than ever.
On top of the basic franchise and MUT versus modes, the addition of new solo challenges provides a fun new stream of content, enabling you to compete against teams put together by celebrities, athletes and the developers themselves.
Some of the commentary tracks have been carried over from last year and some of the best branching story decisions from Longshot have been cut, but overall this the football game both veterans and rookies alike can appreciate.
What can I play it on? PS4
When did it release? September 7, 2018
Marvel’s Spider-Man did not disappoint when it released last year, offering the strongest narrative and most fluid web-swinging of any Spider-Man game to date.
Whether you’re swinging through New York, taking down some familiar enemies or searching for all the collectables, Spider-Man will provide hours of superhero action.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch
When did it release? September 28, 2018
Last year’s addition to the FIFA franchise saw the introduction of the Champion’s League to the soccer sim alongside the return of The Journey single-player mode.
Though FIFA 19 makes no groundbreaking changes, it does offer an add a series of small adjustments (such as the Active Touch system) that continue to push the series in the right direction.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When did it release? September 14, 2018
Shadow of the Tomb Raider sees intrepid explorer Lara Croft racing through South America in an attempt to stop the Mayan apocalypse. You know, just the usual.
Not straying far from previous entries in the series reboot, Shadow of the Tomb Raider includes all the puzzles, exploration and hostile environments you come to expect from a Tomb Raider game.
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When did it release? October 2, 2018
Forza Horizon 4 has been somewhat of a surprise success. The open-world racing adventure lets you tour the stunning sights of Britain, from lavender fields to quint English cottages. There’s even a dynamic weather system which changing according to the seasons.
In addition, Forza Horizon 4 offers a shared multiplayer mode which lets you race and explore with friends.
What can I play it on? Xbox One, PS4 and PC
When did it release? October 12, 2018
Fans were concerned when Activision revealed Black Ops 4 wouldn’t have a single-player mode, but the title more than makes up for it with the introduction of the new Battle Royale Blackout mode along with the return of fan favorite modes such as Multiplayer and Zombies.
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When did it release? October 26, 2018
Voted TechRadar’s most highly-anticipated game of 2018, Rockstar’s latest outing was one biggest releases of 2018.
The Wild West adventure sees you stepping into the shoes of outlaw Arthur Morgan, a gunslinger in the notorious Van Der Linde Gang. With a vast open world, varying terrains, and activites ranging from bounty hunting to fishing, RDR2 will keep you busy for a while.
What can I play it on? Xbox, PS4, PC
When can I play it? November 20, 2018
After taking a year out in 2017, Battlefield is making a return in 2018 with Battlefield V (or 5), set in World War 2.
The game will see the return of War Stories, with some brand new multiplayer modes and the introduction of a live service element which will keep the game fresh long beyond its release.
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When can I play it? November 16, 2018
Pokemon Let’s Go is a set of spin-off Pokemon games which will launch on Nintendo Switch in November 2018. These games will integrate Pokemon RPG gameplay with mechanics from the mobile game Pokemon Go to create an adventure that’s accessible for new and younger fans.
Players will return to the Kanto region where they’ll be able to catch and battle Pokemon alone or with a friend in co-op mode. There are a lot of new ways to play Pokemon in these releases and you can read more about them here.
[ul]
[li]Read everything we know about Pokemon Let’s Go right here[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4 and Xbox One
When can I play it? January 25, 2019
Given it’s been 12 years since Kingdom Hearts 2 was released, it’s safe to say Kingdom Hearts 3 is one of the more highly anticipated titles for 2018. Once more players will take up the role of Sora as he travels with his closest friends Donald and Goofy across a variety of world themed around and populated by a host of famous Disney and Final Fantasy characters.
There’s going to be plenty of familiar sights and faces but we’re really excited to see the brand new Toy Story world.
[ul]
[li]Here’s everything we know about Kingdom Hearts 3[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4
When can I play it? 2019
Considering the first game has been continually hailed as a masterpiece thanks to its excellent, emotional story and engaging life-like characters, the decision to develop The Last of Us Part 2 isn’t actually all that surprising. This time around Ellie takes up the starring role and we’re being promised a much darker game with an even bigger story.
[ul]
[li]Want more information? Here’s the latest on The Last of Us Part 2[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Xbox One and PC
When can I play it? February 2019
It was supposed to be one of the key launch titles for the Xbox One X in November 2017 but Crackdown 3 will now be a big 2018 exclusive for the console. The main selling point of the Crackdown franchise is destruction and in this game’s online multiplayer mode every part of the game’s city is open to destruction thanks to a cloud-based physics calculations system.
[ul]
[li]Want more info? Here’s everything we know about Crackdown 3[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One and PC
When can I play it? 2019 or 2020
Revealed at E3 2017, this game was basically pitched as Assassin’s Creed Black Flag with the assassin bits removed. That leaves the naval warfare and in Skull and Bones you’ll find yourself engaging in single-player and online multiplayer seafaring adventures. Think Sea of Thieves but a bit more geared towards gritty realism.
Though it was originally slated for a 2018 release, it was pushed back in May 2018 to Ubisoft’s next financial year which means it could be launched anytime between April 2019 and March 2020.
[ul]
[li]Read everything we know about Skull and Bones so far[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC
When can I play it? November 14, 2018
There are mixed feelings among fans about the latest upcoming addition to the Fallout franchise, which sees the series hitting an online platform for the first time. While Bethesda promises the gameplay we’ve grown to love about the series, some remain unconvinced the West Virginia wasteland will deliver the same thrill.
[ul]
[li]Fallout 76 release date, beta, multiplayer, trailers and news[/li][/ul]
What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch
When did it release? December 7, 2018
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly took the Nintendo Switch to new heights, bringing Nintendo’s much loved characters to a fighting platform once more.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate packs in more fighters, more stages, more gameplay modes, and more tactical elements of any game in the franchise. This is, for all intents and purposes, the definitive Super Smash Bros., with everything that entails – and plenty of juicy Smash Bros DLC (Joker! Piranha Plant! Banjo-Kazooie!) to keep you occupied after you’ve unlocked the main roster of fighters.
Continue reading…