It’s kind of weird doing a top ten list of games that were featured at an event where video gaming wasn’t the primary focus. But then again, it’s kind of weird to go to a event labeled the Consumer Electronics Show and not see many video games, especially considering that consumers love them, and they use electronic components. Nevertheless, after a bit of looking around, we were able to find enough video game pleasure to get our four days’ worth. Not as much as E3 would offer (or GDC, for that matter) but sufficient enough to make the trip worthwhile. With that, we count down the top ten games we saw on (and off) the show floor. They could’ve either been in hotel suites just a few steps (or blocks) away from the convention hall, or right there on the show floor, but either way, we were definitely happy to see them. (Note: they’re not limited to Xbox 360 picks, either. A couple of Vita titles definitely snuck their way in there.) Without further ado…
10. Battle Mii/Catch Mii (Nintendo Wii U): Okay, so these demos were actually shown back at E3, and sure, they’re mini-games with a focus on multiplayer. Still, what better way to show off the technological connection that the Wii U will have with those looking at a TV screen than these awesome little games? Battle Mii features a focus on shooting action, both from up in the sky and on the ground, without the need for over-the-top weapons or carnage. And Catch Mii is an addictive game in itself, with five people taking part in a real-time tag session and diving over each other like fun-loving buffoons. When the Wii U arrives later this year, look for these games to definitely make an impact.
9. Nexuiz (Xbox Live Arcade): THQ is bringing back the old-school shooter in a big way next month with the release of Nexuiz, a terrific first-person action game with an emphasis on tournament action. However, this isn’t just an ode to shooters of yore like Quake III Arena and Unreal Tournament. It’s a whole different animal with awesome weapons and cool stage modifiers, with everything from color blindness to a shift in gravity to keep things interesting. What’s more, the online action runs very smoothly, and you can practice against bots off-line as well. Bring on the battle.
8. Star Wars Kinect (Xbox 360): Though we didn’t really get the chance to live the life of a Jedi, we did get to check out an entertaining new sequence from this oft-delayed Kinect project, one that put us in control of a pod racer, feeling every twisting turn around Tattooine’s tracks and reliving the glory of being Anakin Skywalker without having to listen to his whiny voice. What’s more, Microsoft presented the demo in flawless 3D, engulfing us in the experience even further. When this game does eventually get a release date (hopefully this summer), it’ll prove to be worth the wait for this sequence alone. Hey, why not just release a pod racing game for XBLA?
This featured top 10 list continues on the next page, please click Page 2 below to read more of our choices for Best Games of CES 2012.
