[Zanbatou]

My Game of the Year is Skyrim. This is my first Bethesda game, and I'm loving it. I just passed the 100 hour point and the game is still going strong. I'm only at level 25 and I still have about half the map left to explore.

If I was allowed to choose a game from previous years I'd probably go with Mass Effect 2 as my GOTY instead, but it's a close call.


And now I think I'll dole out random custom awards, because that looks fun.

Best character:
Tali from Mass Effect 2
Runners up:
Mordin from Mass Effect 2, Wheatley from Portal 2

Most disappointing ending:
Mass Effect 2
(Spoilers!) What were they thinking with that end boss? That was the Collectors' plan all along? A giant skeleton flying superman style through space? And it was made out of people for some reason? You know what, if Skyrim can simply avoid an embarrassment like that, it will be my GOTY after all.
Runner up:
The "choose a button" climax of Deus Ex: Human Revolution

Best new mechanic:
The real time narration from Bastion.
It's such a simple thing, yet somehow the narration throughout that game literally doubles its appeal. I wouldn't be surprised to see dozens of games copying that mechanic in the coming years.

Best Nostalgia Trip:
Jurassic Park: The Game.
Apparently my love for Jurassic Park is stronger than my hatred for Real Time Events.
Runner up:
Replay of Riven

Most overrated:
Amnesia: The Dark Descent

Best game I'm happier watching than playing:
StarCraft 2

The Just One More Turn Award for game that kept me up far, far too late:
Spectromancer
Deciding you're not allowed to go to bed until you have a winning record for the night is a stupid, stupid decision.
Runners up:
Civilization V, Might and Magic: Clash of Heroes

Most improved sequel:
Bioshock 2


2011 games I'm most looking forward to playing in 2012:
Dark Souls, Batman: Arkham City