It’s that time of year! Time to blather on about the games we drooled over the most at E3 2015. Yes, we know these awards mean very little in the grand scheme of things. But stop being so pessimistic. Games are fun, and being excited about the ones you want to play in the future is part of what makes this hobby so great. So without further ado, here are our picks for the Best of E3 2015.
Best Pseudo MMO: The Division
Ubisoft
)
We got hands on time with this one, and it’s all we needed to realize that Ubisofts sort-of MMO shooter is going to be a must play when it launches early in 2016. Read Brad’s preview over here, but trust us when we say, splitting hairs of what is or is not an MMO aside, this is one online game that will likely get a lot of players in a tizzy. And what’s more? Ubisoft, unlike other developers, realizes the PC gamer is ready and waiting for this kind of game and the PC version will be available at launch.
Most Innovative: Crossout
Targem Games and Gaijin Entertainment
)
It may seem like a little thing, but being able to completely create your own death car from scratch and take it into battle is the type of game we’re all dying to play, especially as Mad Max has come back to prominence this year. You have the flexibility and insanity of SPORE’s creature creator mixed with the car combat if games like Twisted Metal, and it’s a recipe for some high octane awesomeness. We didn’t get to play the game, but the early alpha footage we saw, mixed with the idea that players can and will sell their creations for real money seems like a win-win to us. We’re definitely keeping our eyes on this one.
)
Best Mobile MMO or RPG: Torchlight Mobile
Runic Games
)
Of course, right? Torchlight Mobile is a brand new entry in the series from Runic Games, and while I know many PC enthusiasts may shy away from mobile games, Torchlight makes the transition really well. Yes there’s an energy mechanic and yes the dungeons are 2-3 minutes to uphold the mobile market’s quick session ideals, but Torchlight Mobile otherwise perfectly captures what makes Runic’s game so fun. The combat is visceral, impactful, and fun. The world’s art is gorgeous to behold. And there’s that ever-present desire to take on just one more dungeon and get one more new piece of gear. Stay tuned for our hands-on with the demo in the coming days.
)
Best Indie RPG: Pillars of Eternity: The White March Part 1
Obsidian
)
We talked a great deal about this expansion yesterday, and we don’t mind giving The White March the award for best Indie RPG. This kickstarted throwback was already a fantastic game when it launched earlier this year, and the title’s first expansion seeks to make it even more impressive with new mechanics, new features, and tweaks that will make existing fans squeal with delight. Party AI? Yes please!
