2017 has been one of the finest years for gaming in recent memory. We’ve had more than a few potential masterpieces alongside a seemingly never-ending library of hits to sink into. However, just like every year, a number of brilliant experiences might have slipped by unnoticed.
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Trusted Reviews has compiled some of our top hidden gems from 2017 including sprawling RPGs, touching romantic adventures and more!
Night in the Woods
Developer: Infinite Fall
Night in the Woods is a spectacular adventure unlike anything else released in 2017. You play as Mae, a young college drop-out who finds herself back in her hometown of Possum Springs. Despite its charming art style and stellar sense of humour, Night in the Woods also takes a serious look at mental health and economic disparity in the modern world. It’s unusual, and one of the year’s best as a result.
Our score: 9/10
NieR: Automata
Developer: Platinum Games
The original NieR was an underrated gem that fell under the radar of many when it launched in 2010. Automata is a completely different story, having already sold 2 million copies worldwide. However, its unorthodox subject matter and polarising aesthetic shouldn’t be seen as a reason to miss out. The gameplay, characters and music are positively masterful, and arguably Yoko Taro’s best work yet.
Our score: 8/10
The Surge
Developer: Deck 13
Ever since the release of From Software’s Dark Souls many developers have strived to replicate its unique combination of challenging combat and rewarding exploration. The Surge comes very close to nailing it, presenting a morbid world filled with murderous robots just waiting to tear players to shreds. With DLC still being pumped out, Deck 13’s latest is well worth a look.
Our score: 8/10
Related: Upcoming PS4 Games
What Remains of Edith Finch
Developer: Giant Sparrow
As the credits rolled in What Remains of Edith Finch I had to step away from the television and think about what I’d been through in the past three hours. Giant Sparrow’s narrative adventure is beautifully told with a range of excellent characters and locations brought to life through fantastic performances. The mystery of Edith Finch is one I can’t recommend enough.
Our score: 9/10
Pyre
Developer: Supergiant Games
Pyre is a gorgeous game, and I’d expect nothing less from the creators of Bastion and Transistor. And just like that aforementioned duo, it’s also superbly written and surprisingly deep in its gameplay mechanics. Playing as a character exiled from a fantastical society, you roam the land in search of answers while battling similarly fated outcasts.
Our score: 8/10
Butterfly Soup
Developer: Brianna Lei
Brianna Lei’s Butterfly Soup is a lovely experience, and provides the best example of queer representation I’ve seen in the medium yet. Played from the perspective of four high-school students, you learn to love these characters as they come to terms with their sexuality in a world filled with societal pressures. It’s cute, silly and undeniably heartfelt.
Our score: 8/10
Golf Story
Developer: Sidebar Games
This Nintendo Switch exclusive is about playing golf and making friends. The role-playing sports adventure takes place across 8 courses as you compete to emerge victorious while meeting a bunch of diverse characters along the way. All of this is complimented by sharp pixel-art graphics and an ace soundtrack.
Our score: 8/10
Dream Daddy: A Dad Dating Simulator
Developer: Game Grumps
Ever wanted to date the perfect dad? Well, now you can with Dream Daddy, a fun-loving visual novel with a heart of gold. Despite its silly premise, Dream Daddy is superbly written and packed with worthwhile jokes. You can even create your own Dadsona as you prowl the neighbourhood in search of potential dates.
Our score: 8/10
What are some of your hidden gems from 2017? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter @trustedreviews!
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Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
