Here we go. The picks of mine which made it into the advent calendar weren’t embarrassing enough, so now I get to flick a few extras at you like discarded bits of liquorice I’ve found down the back of the sofa. Open wide.

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**Diving into the Essence of Gaming: A Contemplation on Authenticity and Creativity**

In a recent conversation with *Rolling Stone*, artist Woodkid illuminated his partnership with esteemed game director Hideo Kojima for the score of *Death Stranding 2*. Woodkid shared a thought-provoking apprehension voiced by Kojima: “I’m going to be very honest, we have been testing the game with players and the results are too good. They like it too much. That means something is wrong; we have to change something… If everyone likes it, it means it’s mainstream.” This open reflection from Kojima highlights the conflict between artistic integrity and mass appeal, a challenge encountered by creators in diverse fields.

As a participant and consumer of culture, this quote strikes a chord. Creations devoid of integrity often feel excessively polished, crafted merely to satisfy the crowd. While proficient design and accessibility hold significance, a work ought to evoke authentic emotions and stimulate contemplation, rather than just cater to ease. The essence of art resides not in its adherence but in its capacity to confront and inspire.

This year, I had the chance to immerse myself in several games, resulting in a modest compilation of five standout experiences. This is not a commentary on the overall caliber of gaming this year but rather a testament to my restricted time spent with them, as I sought to harmonize my involvement with other media and interpersonal connections.

### Honorable Mention: *Death Stranding 2*

The initial *Death Stranding* continues to be among my favorites, a pioneering experience that made a significant impression. In contrast, *Death Stranding 2*, despite Kojima’s worries regarding mainstream acceptance, feels more cautious and traditional. Familiar combat mechanics dominate, eclipsing the environmental tension that made the first installment distinct. Nevertheless, the game still presents memorable instances, like the delightful surprise of uncovering an unforeseen hot spring and an unexpected narrative twist towards the conclusion, reminiscent of Kojima’s creative leaps.

### Honorable Mention: *Avowed*

Obsidian’s *Avowed* captivates with its unique world echoing *Morrowind*, fostering exploration and unexpected revelations. The narrative, molded by player decisions, adds considerable depth, tackling significant themes while acknowledging its mid-budget constraints. It illustrates the importance of varied gaming experiences, proving mid-budget titles continue to hold relevance in an advancing industry.

### #5: *Absolum*

Following the acclaim of *Streets of Rage 4*, *Absolum* presents a fantasy beat ‘em up featuring roguelike elements, effectively blending genres and delivering both engrossing lore and lively gameplay. The vibrant art style conjures nostalgic sensations akin to classic animated fantasy, ensuring each encounter feels invigorating, whether it’s the player’s first or twentieth attempt.

### #4: *Despelote*

*Despelote* provides a heartfelt journey of passion, focusing on Julián, an Ecuadorian boy captivated by soccer during the 2002 World Cup qualifiers. The game artfully merges soccer with daily life, encapsulating the cultural importance of the sport without extensive exposition. It showcases how particularity in storytelling can cultivate connection, drawing emotional reactions even from those unfamiliar with its context.

### #3: *Terminator 2D: No Fate*

Inspired by the thrilling excitement of James Cameron’s film, *No Fate* stands out as one of the premier arcade-style run-and-gun games. While some may criticize its short duration, its pacing and design culminate in a gratifying experience that promotes replayability, highlighting refined controls and engaging level design.

### #2: *Blippo+*

*Blippo+* rekindles the serendipitous delight of childhood television exploration, offering a diverse array of programs reflecting an alien culture on the verge of transformation. Its charming visuals and narrative richness create a compelling experience, suggesting that true connection and understanding can arise from unforeseen interactions.

### #1: *Shadow Labyrinth*

In *Shadow Labyrinth*, players are immersed in an animated world that unfolds with delightful unpredictability. The game discards traditional design principles, encouraging players to explore without the frequent guidance typical of mainstream titles. It captures the spirit of discovery, reviving the joy of immersive gameplay, where the conventions of character progression and world-building are challenged, allowing for artistic freedom and personality.

Ultimately, from Kojima’s apprehensions regarding mainstream acceptance to the developers’ decisions in *Shadow Labyrinth*, the conversation around gaming persistently challenges standards and inspires. This year has reaffirmed that the heart of excellent game design resides in the courage to take chances, embrace ambiguity, and nurture authentic experiences that resonate beyond simple entertainment.

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