2. Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is what many call a “Metroidvania” game. It combines elements of the classic video game series Metroid (which was big on Nintendo consoles) and the Castlevania series by Konami. Ori is more like a 2D platform games at heart such as Super Mario Bros., though, but is not afraid to challenge players in the way a game like 2010’s Super Meat Boy did.

Ori and the Blind Forest boasts a beautiful art style, but it’s also one of the hardest games in recent memory, requiring reflexes and skill to navigate its superbly designed levels. But still, the game is not only tremendous fun, but it features a great and touching story in which Ori and his pal Naru see the forest succumb to darkness, and it’s up to Ori to save the day. And protagonist Ori’s story is brought to life by some great music and visuals, in what was surely one of the top Xbox One games of the year.

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