The lights are on
NEW SUPER MARIO BROS. U
The Wii U may boast a wide variety of novel features, but Nintendo’s best game at the show was one that barely utilized any of them. Other than the ability to play the game on the controller or on the TV screen, the only hardware-specific function the Wii U provides in New Super Mario Bros. U is the ho-hum “assist mode” that lets friends create platforms by tapping the controller. It may not show off the capabilities of Nintendo’s shiny new console, but it’s fantastic to see Mario and friends in HD for the first time. More importantly, the gameplay feels as solid as any title in the stellar series. We can’t wait to don the new flying squirrel suit and embark on Mario’s new adventure with three friends.
THE LAST OF US
At its core, Naughty Dog’s latest project doesn’t do a whole lot that we haven’t seen before. There’s cover mechanics, stealth play, shooting, melee attacks, and platforming puzzles. Where The Last of Us breaks new ground is the stunning humanity brought not just to leads Joel and Ellie, but also every enemy you encounter. Blasting a man in the face with a shotgun after he pleads for his life signals a consistent theme of dealing with the weight of sickening, realistic violence that’s necessary to survive in the gorgeously destroyed, post-apocalyptic world.
HALO 4
Fans have been wary of new developer 343 Industries ever since Microsoft handed them the keys to the Halo franchise after Bungie moved on to its still-under-wraps new franchise. The team at 343 came out swinging at E3 2012, ready to prove that this rookie fighter is ready to take up the mantle. By placing the focus on the integrated experience between single-player, cooperative, and competitive multiplayer, Halo 4 looks to offer something for everyone, and gives players a good reason to cross back and forth between modes. Perhaps most importantly, Halo 4’s strong showing helped Microsoft prove that the 360 still has some untapped power.
ASSASSIN’S CREED III
Plenty of games showed beautifully at E3 2012, but none created more buzz amongst our staff than Assassin’s Creed III. If anyone had doubts about the ability of this franchise to make another leap forward with a new hero and setting, those fears were systematically dispelled. With three separate single-player demos, Ubisoft convinced showgoers of the wide array of activities the game offers players. The playable multiplayer and brand new trailer were icing on the cake. The visually stunning environments of the game were enough to catch our attention – add in some of the most intense action sequences we’ve seen in a video game, and we’ve got a winner.
Which title earned your game of show? Share your thoughts below.
Email the author Matt Bertz, or follow on Twitter, Google+, Facebook, and Game Informer.
Great to see Borderlands 2 there! There was way too little coverage about B2 at E3, but Mr. McNamara also seems to be a Borderlands fan ;)
Good list. I wouldn't mind playing these as well. =p
I, too thought that ACIII looked most impressive, but Dishonored definitely caught my eye, too. I didn't think it would, either.
good list but i gotta give it to The Last of Us for the best in show, that game blew me away.
There seems to be a lack of Watch Dogs on this list. I'd call it "Biggest Surprise", maybe even best new IP.
I was surprised at first that Watch Dogs didn't make this list. Then again, looking back at the categories and criteria of the choices, we might need to see and know more of the game before justifiably listing it. Otherwise, I very much agree with this, nice list.
Interesting choice for game of the show, thought either Watch Dogs or Last Of Us. AC3 does look fantastic though.
Have to say without a doubt that the new IP from Quantic Dream (makers of Heavy Rain) with Beyond: Two Souls. Absolutely stunning and looks like a great mystery/thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end.