Gems in the Rough

Underappreciated, but not forgotten. 

As we move into a new year sometimes it's good to look back at the previous years and see what went well, and not so well. But more importantly what games you played, and the games that fell to the wayside. Recently I was asked what my favorite underappreciated games were, which made me want to write this article. So if you don't mind a little self-indulgence on my part, maybe you will find your next favorite gaming experience on this list. Without further adieu, here are my personal favorite lesser know titles. (Quick Note: The list is not in any particular order. Enjoy!)

1. To the Moon. 

Starting out this list is a game I have already briefly touched on. Coming out just days before The Elder Scrolls Skyrim, is a dangerous 
prospect. Which showed as the game didn't receive much attention from most, however months after release it got a second wind due mostly to YouTube playthroughs by large channels. The game is a simple point and click puzzle game, with sprites, beautiful pixel artwork, and a moving soundtrack. From a gameplay stand point it's very bare-bones, but the story is the key selling point here. The tale of a dying mans wish to go to the moon told backwards through his memories, is an emotional roller coaster. I can't explain too much as it will spoil the game, but needless to say it will leave thinking, wanting to discuss it, while also making you ask questions of yourself. At only 4.5 hours long it's a game that can be taken in quickly, but you will want to savor the journey.  

2. Hollow Knight.

Now there is some buzz about this game, (unintentional pun) but not nearly enough credit is given to it. Released, February 24, 2017. Set in a fascinating world, that is slowing unfolded to you. You play as an expressionless knight, with your only real clear goal to be to save a villages people. Did I mention everyone, and everything in the game is a bug? It's a metroidvania style game, with backtracking, new items, and plenty to explore. It really feels like a love letter to the older styles of games. What with it's hand drawn visuals, to its charming characters. It also introduces some new concepts that I would love to see passed on to other titles as well. Hollow Knight is a challenging and enriching experience that I would love for more people to play for themselves.

3. Ori and the Blind Forest.

Ok so I know I'm cheating a bit with this one, but I can't help myself. I love this game so very much, and I wish more people would play and see for themselves. 
Released, March 2015. 
Ori and the Blind Forest follows the story of well, Ori. A child of light that must restore the light to the forest. Even though Ori does not speak in the game, he is one of the most expressive and heartwarming characters in gaming. Also the visuals on display here are without a doubt the most beautiful I have ever seen. Besting games like, "The Witcher 3" and, "Uncharted 4." In that department. (This is just in my opinion though) While the game looks peaceful, make no mistake. Ori and the Blind Forest is tough as nails, and that's a good thing. It's just the right amount of challenge, giving you room to improve at the game and feel accomplished. To top it all off the games controls are incredibly tight and responsive, with jumps, flips, attacks, wall climbs, and leaps all feeling amazing to do. To sum it all up, the game looks amazing, feels great to play, has one of my personal favorite soundtracks, features a tear-jerking heartwarming story, and is only 19.99 USD. What are you waiting for, go, play it. Well after you finish with this of course. 

4. Lawbreakers.

Now this one is a bit weird. You have most likely heard of this one, but in some way or another were turned off by it. Releasing, August 8, 2017. It suffered from horrible marketing, and was put into a odd release slot, which ultimately failed the game. The game doesn't have a story, instead being a multiplayer only release. Another problem was the bland generic roster of characters to play as. Somehow, even after all of those negatives, the game is surprisingly fun. At it's core a lovely throwback to quake style multiplayer craziness. It has complex movement systems, twitch shooting, and quite a lot of strategy. If you have a itch for some old school fun, Lawbreakers might be able to scratch it for you. 

5. Sleeping Dogs.

Another game that is revered, but no one really talks about it. Ever. Sleeping Dogs released August 14, 2012. To high review scores and low sales. Over the years the game has seen somewhat of a cult following, and for good reason. The games premise is you play as, "Wei Shen" an undercover police officer in the infamous Triad. What follow is a tense game of cat and mouse as you constantly evade both sides of the conflict. It feature a gritty realized version of Hong Kong, with bright neon lights, seedy back alleyways, and famous movie stars. The combat is reminiscent of the Batman Arkham series, with the exception you are a Kung Fu master, who isn't afraid to kill. With its unique narrative and setting. It's a game I can recommend anyone looking for a open sandbox game.

That'll do...For now.

For now I'm going to keep this list short. As I keep going the games would become harder and harder to find. The intent of this list is to find a game that you could pick up and play today, without much hassle. If you would like me to continue with older game please do let me know. Just because a game is popular doesn't mean it's the best, and a game that you may have never heard of, just might become your new favorite. Happy New Year, and good hunting.