In a decade dominated by blockbuster titles like “The Last of Us,” “Red Dead Redemption 2,” and “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” many equally deserving games have flown under the radar. These underrated gems, though not as widely recognized, offer rich experiences that rival, or even t https://88clb.living/ surpass, those of their more popular counterparts. Here are some of the top picks for underrated games of the decade that you should consider adding to your collection.
1. “Hollow Knight” (2017)
1.1. A Metroidvania Masterpiece
“Hollow Knight,” developed by the indie studio Team Cherry, is a 2D action-adventure game that has become a beloved title among indie game enthusiasts. Set in the hauntingly beautiful world of Hallownest, players explore a vast, interconnected environment filled with challenging enemies, intricate platforming sections, and hidden secrets. The game’s art style, atmospheric soundtrack, and tight gameplay mechanics make it a standout in the Metroidvania genre.
1.2. Why It’s Underrated
Despite its critical success, “Hollow Knight” didn’t initially capture mainstream attention. The game’s steep difficulty curve and complex map may have intimidated some players. However, those who persevere will find a deeply rewarding experience that’s rich in both gameplay and lore.
2. “Prey” (2017)
2.1. A Sci-Fi Horror Experience
“Prey,” developed by Arkane Studios, is a first-person shooter that blends elements of horror, survival, and exploration. Set aboard the space station Talos I, players must navigate a world overrun by alien creatures while uncovering the mysteries of the station and its inhabitants. “Prey” offers a rich narrative, immersive environments, and multiple ways to approach challenges, making each playthrough a unique experience.
2.2. Why It’s Underrated
“Prey” was released to positive reviews but struggled to find a broad audience. Its slow pacing and complex mechanics might have deterred some players, but for fans of immersive sims and sci-fi horror, “Prey” is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
3. “A Plague Tale: Innocence” (2019)
3.1. A Heart-Wrenching Story of Survival
“A Plague Tale: Innocence,” developed by Asobo Studio, is a narrative-driven action-adventure game set during the Black Death in 14th-century France. The game follows siblings Amicia and Hugo as they navigate a world ravaged by disease and pursued by the Inquisition. The game is praised for its emotional storytelling, strong character development, and hauntingly beautiful visuals.
3.2. Why It’s Underrated
Despite receiving critical acclaim, “A Plague Tale: Innocence” didn’t achieve widespread commercial success. Its niche appeal, focusing on narrative and atmosphere rather than action, may have contributed to its relative obscurity. However, it remains one of the most emotionally impactful games of the decade.
4. “NieR: Automata” (2017)
4.1. A Philosophical Action-RPG
“NieR: Automata,” developed by PlatinumGames, is an action RPG that explores deep philosophical themes within a dystopian future. Players follow the androids 2B, 9S, and A2 as they battle against machine invaders in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The game is known for its fast-paced combat, multiple endings, and thought-provoking narrative.
4.2. Why It’s Underrated
While “NieR: Automata” has gained a cult following, it was initially overlooked by many gamers. Its unconventional storytelling, which requires multiple playthroughs to fully understand, and its niche appeal contributed to its status as an underrated gem. For those willing to engage with its complex narrative, “NieR: Automata” offers a deeply rewarding experience.
5. “The Last Guardian” (2016)
5.1. A Tale of Friendship and Trust
“The Last Guardian,” developed by Japan Studio, is a unique action-adventure game that centers on the relationship between a young boy and a giant creature named Trico. The game focuses on the bond between the two characters as they work together to navigate a mysterious world filled with puzzles and dangers.
5.2. Why It’s Underrated
“The Last Guardian” faced a troubled development cycle, and upon release, it received mixed reviews due to technical issues. However, its emotional depth and artistic design make it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games. It’s a poignant and unforgettable experience that deserves more attention.
Conclusion
While many games from the past decade have rightfully earned their place in the spotlight, these underrated titles offer experiences that are equally compelling. From the emotional journey of “The Last Guardian” to the philosophical depth of “NieR: Automata,” these games prove that sometimes the best gaming experiences come from unexpected places. If you’re looking to explore some hidden gems, these top picks are a great place to start.
