Top 10 Best Video Games of 2011 (So Far)

2011 has been another banner year in the realm of gaming. From great shooters to involving RPGs, there has been something for everyone since January. With E3 2011 finally upon us, we thought it would be a good time to look back at the games that stood head and shoulders above the rest. So, sit back and take a trip with us as we look at the 10 best games of the year so far.

10. Shift 2 Unleashed (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Part of the landmark Need for Speed series, Shift 2 Unleashed offers updated controls and a plethora of cars that can be customized to suit the driver's needs. By plethora, I mean some 130 vehicles waiting for the player to take them for a spin. That kind of content screams replay value on a level that most games can only dream of. The new helmet cam offers an ‘in the car’ experience that is first rate. If you love racing games that are filled to the brim with action and excitement, look no further than Shift 2 Unleashed.

9. Conduit 2 (Wii)

Wii seems to get a bad rap when it comes to the opinions of hardcore gamers. Not nearly as powerful as the other next-gen systems, the Wii struggles with certain genre mainstays like first-person shooters. Or does it? Wii owners everywhere have at least one game they can make an argument with, and that game is Conduit 2. The second game in the series takes full advantage of the Wii’s motion controls and delivers a unique gameplay experience that other gamers will salivate over. Add to that impeccable graphics and a deep story, and it’s no wonder why Conduit 2 made the list.

8. Dead Space 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

The survival horror genre has been the stomping ground for one zombie fest after another, in a lot of ways diluting the genre. But Dead Space changed that considerably. Dead Space 2 continues the tradition of thinking outside the box with yet another great sequel. The third-person shooter is truly terrifying at times, which makes the survival aspect quite rewarding. Enemies in the game are highly varied, smart, and can attack from every angle. If you haven’t checked out Dead Space 2 yet, do yourself a favor and get it; the best gamers out there swear by it.

7. Killzone 3 (PS3)

The PS3 has been knocking on the door of the shooter genre for a while now, and while games like Gears of War and Halo have a bit of a head start, you could do far worse than Killzone 3. The game's controls are nothing short of impeccable, and the sound effects keep you squarely on the edge of your seat. The campaign takes you further into the game and its unique universe. For PS3 owners, Killzone 3 is a must, if for no other reason than the extensive online multiplayer and its options.

6. Fight Night Champion (PS3, Xbox 360)

Fight Night Champion has already made our list of greatest sports simulations of all time, so it should go without saying that its one of the best games to come out this year so far. Like most of the Fight Night series of games, Fight Night Champion has an extensive list of fighters to choose from. But what sets it apart is the wildly entertaining Champion mode where you go through the intense drama of a young fighter dealing with matters both in the ring and out. It’s rare that a sports game delivers a movie-quality story while remaining true to the spirit of the sport itself; this might be the best sports game of 2011.

(Continued on the Next Page...)