This is the time of year where I get to write about my favourite video games of 2005. These are the games I’ve deemed as the most entertaining and enjoyable titles of the past 12 months. Be forewarned, these choices are based on my opinions, and are not based on choices stemming from any other source or publication. It is also important to point out that I haven’t played every single game that was released this year, and that it’s more than possible that I’ve overlooked a specific title on a particular system. With that in mind, here are my top picks for 2005:

Game of the Year: Resident Evil 4 (GameCube/PS2) – Nobody expected “Resident Evil 4” to be as good as it ended up being. After two sequels and a series of uninspiring spin-offs, gamers practically gave up on the possibility of the series returning to its cutting edge roots. That is, until Capcom decided to reinvent the franchise by infusing some action-packed sequences to the familiar survival horror theme. Resident Evil 4 is the definitive action title of 2005. The game is also visually appealing and the graphics are among the year’s best, which makes you wonder why we’re jumping so suddenly in a new console generation. Pick up Resident Evil 4 and get reacquainted with the survival horror franchise that started it all.

Best MMO of 2005: Guild Wars (PC) – NCsoft’s “Guild Wars” is the perfect massively multiplayer online (MMO) title for gamers on a budget. No monthly fees, you just pay for the retail box, install it on your PC and play. The game blends the best elements from both the MMO universe and the traditional hack-and-slash action role-playing game (RPG). Best of all, Guild Wars features some of the best player-vs-player gameplay in its genre. A definite classic!

Best FPS of 2005: Battlefield 2 (PC) – “Battlefield 2” is one of the best online multiplayer first-person shooters (FPS) of all time. Sure, the game might have its fair share of problems, but nothing can downplay the game’s overall fun factor. Battlefield 2 is an intensive action title that immerses gamers in fierce modern day war scenarios. Don’t dwell on the fact that this game is a sequel, as you will be impressed with the improvements to the classic Battlefield formula. Be warned, this game is quite addictive and you might have a hard time prying yourself away from the computer screen.

Best Sports title of 2005: Forza Motorsport (Xbox) – Microsoft Game Studios managed to create the perfect driving simulation with “Forza Motorsport” for the Xbox. Racing purists will enjoy the fast-paced realism that was once a staple in Sony’s “Gran Turismo” series. The game features realistic looking vehicles and tracks, making Forza Motorsport one of the most visually appealing racing title on the aging Microsoft console. The game also features a strong online component that adds to the title’s overall replayability. Driving game enthusiasts should definitely add Forza Motorsport to their gaming library.

Best RPG of 2005: Jade Empire (Xbox) – Not only is BioWare’s “Jade Empire” the best RPG of 2005, but its also the greatest RPG for the Xbox. Jade Empire is a well structured oriental RPG that appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers. The game includes an innovative combat system that uses a rock, paper scissors approach to handle its battle sequences. Jade Empire, no slouch in the visual department, features some of the year’s most beautiful graphics. The game’s ancient Chinese setting breathes some fresh air on the tired medieval fantasy formula depicted in most modern day RPGs. BioWare’s latest endeavor will not disappoint and will surely keep you glued to your TV set for months.

By Andre Barriault as published in the Dec. 22 issue of [here] magazine.

The “For the Gamer” column is a weekly article that I write for [here] magazine based out of New Brunswick, Canada.

[tags]battlefield 2,resident evil 4,guild wars,forza motorsports,jade empire[/tags]