Are you tired of mainstream games that don’t quite hit the mark? Look no further than these 15 video games that were surprisingly amazing. These games far exceeded expectations and proved that you don’t need a huge budget or a major franchise to make a great game. From indie hits to cult classics, we’ve got you covered with this list of games that were way better than they had any right to be. So grab your controller and get ready to dive into some unexpected gaming gems.

Introduction:

Video games come in all shapes and sizes, and while some games are destined for greatness, others have to work harder to earn their place. However, these games have proven that you shouldn’t judge a game by its cover. They have turned out to be surprisingly impressive, with innovative game mechanics, engaging storylines, and compelling characters. Here are 15 video games that were way better than they had any right to be.

Inside

Inside is a puzzle-platform game developed and published by Playdead. The game has a dark and eerie feel to it, with a minimalistic approach to storytelling. The game mechanics are simple, yet unique, and the puzzles are challenging without being frustrating. The game’s immersive atmosphere and ambiguous storyline have earned it critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.

Metal Gear Acid

Metal Gear Acid is a tactical turn-based card game spin-off of the Metal Gear series. While the game mechanics may seem bizarre at first, the cell-shaded visuals and tight controls make it a delight to play. The game earned mixed reviews, but it was still successful enough to have a sequel that was even better.

Until Dawn

Until Dawn is a survival horror game developed by Supermassive Games. The game was originally a first-person game with PlayStation Move features, but it was later changed to a third-person game. The game exceeded expectations with its compelling storyline, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a turn-based tactical RPG game that combines the worlds of Mario and Rabbids. The game was met with skepticism at first, but it turned out to be an incredibly fun game with tight mechanics, challenging scenarios, and a light-hearted story that did justice to both franchises.

Sonic Mania

Sonic Mania is a traditional 2D side-scrolling Sonic game developed by Christian Whitehead and Headcanon, not by Sonic Team. The game became a massive hit with some critics considering it as one of the best Sonic titles due to its visual, gameplay, and storyline.

Wolfenstein: The New Order

Wolfenstein: The New Order is a first-person shooter game developed by MachineGames. The game has a heavy-handed story and cutscenes, but it makes up for it with fast-paced, high-octane action, compelling characters, and fresh gameplay approaches that established Machine Games as a significant player in the FPS genre.

Hi-Fi Rush

Hi-Fi Rush is a hack-and-slash rhythm game revealed during Xbox’s first Developer Direct. At first glance, the game looks overtly cheesy, but it turned out to be a cool-looking game with impressive mechanics, environments, and music that garnered critical acclaim and two million players since its release in January.

Little Nightmares

Little Nightmares is a platformer developed by Tarsier Studios. The game received strong critical acclaim and sold over two million copies due to its compelling narrative and surreal horror, despite its average controls.

Dredge

Dredge is a fishing game with cosmic horror elements from Black Salt Games. The game exceeded expectations with its fun gameplay, compelling story, and world-building that drew players in without getting repetitive.

The Room

The Room is a puzzle game developed by Fireproof Games. The game’s intricate puzzles are what sets it apart from other games. The game has an eerie and mysterious atmosphere that keeps players engaged throughout.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a farming simulator developed by ConcernedApe. The game’s immersive world and addictive gameplay mechanics have made it a fan favorite. Players can grow and harvest crops, raise livestock, and build relationships with the town’s inhabitants.

Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a roguelike-metroidvania game developed by Motion Twin. The game’s tight controls, procedural generation, and permadeath mechanics have made it a favorite among masochistic gamers.

Enter the Gungeon

Enter the Gungeon is a bullet hell dungeon crawler developed by Dodge Roll. The game’s quirky sound effects, amazing pixel art, and fast-paced gameplay have made it a fan favorite.

Firewatch

Firewatch is a walking simulator developed by Campo Santo. The game’s gorgeous visuals, immersive atmosphere, and storyline set it apart from other walking simulators.

The Binding of Isaac

The Binding of Isaac is a roguelike action-adventure game created by Edmund McMillen. The game’s dark humor, brutal difficulty, and procedurally generated levels have made it a cult classic.

Conclusion:

Video games are a form of art, and just like any other art form, they can surprise us. These 15 games were way better than they had any right to be, and they prove that you shouldn’t judge a game by its cover. From immersive storytelling to addictive gameplay mechanics, these games have it all.

FAQs:

Was Sonic Mania a commercial success?

Yes, Sonic Mania was a commercial success and was praised for its visual, gameplay, and storyline. The game sold millions of copies and received critical acclaim.

What makes Firewatch unique?

Firewatch is unique because it’s a walking simulator with a compelling storyline, immersive atmosphere, and gorgeous visuals.

What is the gameplay of Dredge?

Dredge is a fishing game with cosmic horror elements. The gameplay involves fishing and exploring the environment while uncovering the game’s compelling storyline.