Despite several disappointing delays and lackluster releases in the AAA category this year, some titles have managed to stand out thanks to their innovative gameplay, compelling narratives, and brilliant use of next-gen features. Critics on Metacritic have made it clear which triple-A titles have lived up to the increasingly high standards in the gaming industry, which makes them worth checking out.

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An interesting mix of remastered titles, sequels, and completely new games have made it to the top of Metacritic’s list, with the very best garnering near-perfect scores. With games from varying genres, there’s something for every kind of player who wants to delve into these instant classics before the year ends.

Ghost Of Tsushima: Director’s Cut – 88

Jin holding a bow with a flaming arrow in Ghost of Tsushima.

Most players would agree that Ghost of Tsushima was already an impressive title when it was first released, but the improvements in its Director’s Cut version show that even near-perfect games can become even better.

With a new storyline, even better visuals, and faster loading times, the Director’s Cut elevates Jin Sakai’s adventure in exciting ways. Players can take on the Mongol invaders and make heartbreaking decisions, all while exploring the striking world of feudal Japan in a way that maximizes the PS5’s capabilities. It’s the perfect time to experience the critically-acclaimed open-world title, especially for players who enjoy games that deal with history and wars.

Monster Hunter Rise – 88

The player character jumping towards a monster in Monster Hunter Rise.

The sixth mainline installment in the massively popular Monster Hunter series features the best gameplay elements and monsters that fans know from previous games, while also adding new and exciting features to the title. From the lovable companion Palamute to the Wirebug traversal option, Monster Hunter Rise's new features significantly improve the genre-defying franchise, which only seems to get better with each new entry.

As always, players take on the role of a Hunter, who’s determined to stop the ferocious creatures trying to destroy a village. It’s a must-play for action RPG fans, as well as gamers looking to get into the genre.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart – 88

Ratchet holding onto a vehicle in Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart.

Fans of the Ratchet & Clank series are taken on a multidimensional adventure in Rift Apart, as the protagonist attempts to stop Dr. Nefarious in more than one world. The platformer stays faithful to what makes the franchise so successful, which includes its smooth gameplay, wacky weapons, and lovable characters.

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Players are introduced to the likable Rivet and Kit, who play an important role in the mind-bending narrative. Of course, the game is optimized for the PS5 and makes use of DualSense’s haptic feedback, as well as the 3D spatial audio. It’s a true next-gen gaming experience that fans shouldn’t miss.

Deathloop – 88

Colt holding a gun in Deathloop.

It’s hard to pinpoint just one thing that makes Deathloop such an enjoyable game. From its best characters, like Colt and the Visionaries, to its challenging puzzles and unique premise, it’s clear that it’s an innovative game that will go down in history as one of the defining titles of this year.

The 1960s aesthetic helps immerse players in a gorgeous, often zany setting in the enigmatic island of Blackreef. Every unexpected twist and turn makes it difficult to let go of the controller, so anyone diving into Colt’s journey can expect to play for hours on end until they reach the title’s satisfying conclusion.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – 89

Cloud and his friends watching the sun set in Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade.

Final Fantasy VII is often praised for having one of the best stories in the Final Fantasy franchise. The Remake Intergrade version takes that to a whole new level, as players get to learn more about Cloud Strife and his friends. Fans even get to meet Sephiroth under different circumstances in this version.

Aside from improvements in the narrative, the remake boasts 4k graphics, faster loading times, and maximizes DualSense’s haptic feedback. Players looking for the ideal entry point to the long-running franchise won’t be disappointed if they give this remake a shot.

Mass Effect Legendary Edition – 90

The poster of Mass Effect Legendary Edition featuring the main characters and Commander Shepard's helmet

Fans can’t be blamed for feeling apprehensive about the remaster of the iconic Mass Effect trilogy, but the Legendary Edition did not disappoint. The trilogy is an excellent example of a remaster done right, as it allows fans to rediscover these beloved titles and experience them just as they remember from the 2000s, but with improved graphics and smoother controls.

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Commander Shepard’s story in the first game is specifically much better, as the developers made it a point to align the title’s combat and balance with the latter games. Even the originally released DLCs and vehicles for each game are there, with refreshed designs and modernized physics, of course.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 – 90

The player character skating in a warehouse in Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1 + 2.

Long-time fans of what is arguably the best skateboarding franchise of all time can jump back into Tony Hawk Pro Skater’s best levels through its remastered versions. Players can relive the 2000s titles, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Pro Skater 2, repackaged with better graphics and designed to maximize the PS5’s capabilities.

With a new soundtrack and smooth mechanics, it’s easy to get into the groove of the skater titles, even for those who have never played them before. The genre-defining games underscore how far sports titles have come and unsurprisingly leave fans asking for more installments in the popular series.

Microsoft Flight Simulator – 90

A plane flying over the ocean in the Microsoft Flight Simulator.

To say that the first-ever console release of Microsoft Flight Simulator went well is an understatement. The simulation game has been praised for its stunning visuals and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics anchored on realistic physics and topography.

The title uses real-time data to accurately depict current weather conditions and even traffic in the air. There’s also an air traffic controller and a virtual co-pilot who can assist players when they’re unsure about what to do next. Whether fans are actual pilots or just interested in learning the basic controls and flight instruments, it’s an impressive game that has unquestionably dominated its niche.

Psychonauts 2 – 91

Raz wearing goggles in Psychonauts 2.

Raz’s wild adventures in Psychonauts 2 have enthralled players who have might have not heard of the series before, considering how the VR prequel – Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin – never really achieved the same commercial success that its sequel has.

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The platformer thrusts players into a wacky world where the titular Psychonauts use their psychic abilities for good, even if things aren’t as black and white as they seem after their leader is kidnapped. Every new mindscape Raz explores unlocks new cool abilities that fans can use against increasingly fearsome mental creatures. It’s a truly unique experience that has rightly placed the franchise in the spotlight, with its growing fanbase eager to see what comes next.

Forza Horizon 5 – 92

A car on the road in Forza Horizon 5.

It’s safe to say that the latest installment in the Forza series has dominated the racing genre. Forza Horizon 5 boasts the biggest open-world map in the franchise to date, complete with gorgeous volcanoes and ancient Mayan temples scattered throughout its Mexico-inspired locations.

The award-winning game can be experienced in both single and multiplayer modes, with the well-received battle royale mode from the prequel making a well-deserved return. The cars featured in the title are more customizable than ever before, as players can choose from a wide array of liveries, engines, body kits, and more. Of course, fans will have to complete enough tasks and achieve a number of Accolades to unlock the most sought-after vehicles in the game, which means players can count on hours of rewarding gameplay in Metacritic’s best triple-A game of 2021.

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