2021 may have kicked off with a slower-than-usual start thanks to numerous big delays, but that doesn't mean we still haven't been treated to a fair share of quality releases. Whether you're looking to get the most of out of your PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S or still enjoying your PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, or PC, we've evaluated many of 2021's most noteworthy games to help guide you towards the best of the best. What highly anticipated games met our expectations? Which under-the-radar indies deserve your attention? You can find the answers to those questions right here.
Below you'll find a list of the top scoring games of 2021, beginning with the top scorer and going down. Any game that scores between a 10 and an 8.5 makes the cut. Each entry also features a small blurb and a link to the full review. We'll update the list with eligible titles as the year progresses, so be sure to bookmark this page if you ever need recommendations on what to play next. Have fun!
9.5
Returnal
A deadly alien planet is a playground for your senses and curiosity. Read review
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Release Date:
9.25
It Takes Two
Hazelight's cooperative adventure is clever, different, and loads of fun. Read review
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Release Date:
Little Nightmares II
This impressive follow-up builds on its predecessor with emotional gut punches and unnerving visuals that stick with you. Read review
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Release Date:
February 11, 2021 (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC), (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S)
Resident Evil Village
Village doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to horror, but a consistent rollout of new weapons and tools makes it hard to walk away from these terrors. Read review
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Release Date:
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
By bundling one of the best 3D Mario games with an all-new adventure, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a compelling package for all fans of the Nintendo mascot. Read review
Platforms: Switch
Release Date:
Tales of Arise
Flashy combat, dynamic characters, and a masterfully realized game world make Tales of Arise one of the best JRPG experiences of the year. Read review
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Release Date: