Whether you love them, hate them, or forget they exist until they pop on your screen and interrupt your game, achievements and trophies have become a (literally) required aspect of all PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 games.

I fall into the love camp, and these are some of my favorites from 2012. The achievements and trophies that I find most interesting aren't the ones that mark your progress in a storyline or reward you for attaining a certain number of headshots. I like the ones that force you to think outside of the normal functions of the game, or simply reward you for doing something weird.

Mass Effect 3
Mass Effect is a game that’s all about its story, and as such many of its achievements tie into specific  storyline moments. This is one that you have to go out of your way to get, and it's not easy. When you do pull it off though, it feels great.
Hijacker – Hijack an Atlas Mech

Journey
I actually have a very specific story as to why I like these Trophies so much, and you can read about them right here.
Ancestors – Find a mysterious creature hidden in the temple
Reflection – Sit and meditate with another player for more than 20 seconds

Dance Central 3
I got this achievement organically, and it made me laugh. Basically you get an achievement for being indecisive in your music choice.
Just pick something! – Skipped 5 songs in Party Time

Fez
This achievement, in a way, defines what is so amazing about Fez. It forces you to think outside of the traditional boundaries of video games in order to find an unlock everything.
Achievement unlocked – RTRTLTRTRTLTLTLT

Prototype 2
Born of an Internet meme, karate kicking a helicopter feels pretty damn good.
Arcade action – Karate kicked a helicopter

Read on for more of the best Achievements and Trophies of 2012.