While Microsoft’s focus has long shifted away from console exclusives and the generational shift left it in a tougher spot than usual, the Xbox One still had some great games in 2020. Siliconera’s Xbox One Game of the Year 2020 selections gave us a lot to play and enjoy. Onto our picks!
These awards represent the consensus of the Siliconera staff. For more of the year’s award selections, check out our Game of the Year 2020 archive.
Winner: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2
While we got older all the time in 2020, the remastered parks and skaters of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 gave us a precious respite. It’s not easy to remake this game — multiple attempts over the years have proved that — so the success here feels extra-sweet for beleaguered THPS fans. We’d wish for this success to lead to a new original title, but we’re afraid we’d restart the cycle of disappointment. Instead, we’ll just like this one!
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
How do you follow up such a gorgeous, polished platformer? Well! As it turns out, you can just do a second one of those! It’s clear that the team at Moon Studios learned a lot while developing the first game, and the second shows a new level consistency and flow as a result. Whether it’s the original release or the well-crafted Switch port, however you play Ori, you’ll have a good time.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Even on the old generation of consoles, Yakuza: Like a Dragon brings a lot of charm and value. Sure, the loads are longer! Sure, you’ll deal with some lower frame rates and reduced textures! But the value of Like a Dragon remains. It’s a new, fresh Yakuza, and you should play it however you can.
What’s your Xbox One Game of the Year 2020? Share your thoughts (and check out recommendations from our staff and community) on our forums.
Published: Dec 30, 2020 12:00 pm