Noisy Pixel’s Best Games of 2021: Genre Part 1

Let’s get this show on the road. Noisy Pixel will be rolling out their picks for their best games of 2021. This will include genres and anything else they want to ensure the best titles from last year get this spotlight they deserve. This will continue throughout the week until we get to our Best Game of 2021, including our Readers Choice.

Best Action: Scarlet Nexus

Bandai Namco’s action JRPG ventures are usually attributed to the Tales of franchise. While the recent Tales of Arise undoubtedly deserves critical praise, Scarlet Nexus’ combat is overlooked, likely due to its shared proximity of release.

While inspired by Tales of combative elements, Scarlet Nexus provides an altogether unique experience helmed by distinct character actions tying into enemy slaying and puzzle-solving. The freedom of choice with simultaneous skill usage adds to the unique gameplay identity. It’s an addicting romp heightened by caring post-launch support, depicting clear respect for its player base.

Best Adventure: Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy was initially met with dubious reception during its initial marketing, primarily due to the lukewarm release of Marvel’s Avengers. However, expectations were thrown on their head when the game turned out to be extraordinarily qualitative.

Boasting, witty and engaging character banter, a gripping narrative, strategic action combat, and more, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy is a must-play for any action fan regardless of their history with Marvel’s extensive catalog.

Best Horror: Resident Evil Village

The Resident Evil series has consistently tried to raise the bar for the horror genre, with varying results. Resident Evil Village brings together everything fans love about the series while treading new ground in terms of character development and environmental design.

This adventure has players explore various areas with obstacles around every corner. Whether a puzzle needs to be solved or a specific key is required to proceed, this is classic Resident Evil with modern updates. Oh, and the waves of zombie-like enemies and cool bosses trying to kill you only sweetens the experience.

Best Action-RPG: Ys IX: Monstrum Nox

Falcom is a developer known for their RPG experience of many decades. In fact, they’re even considered the creators of Action RPGs thanks to the very first Dragon Slayer game. Yet, after all those years, they still manage to make very compelling, dynamic games.

Ys IX is one of their peaks to this date, allowing players to feel the wonder of exploring the many layers of the Balduq city. With the special powers known as Gifts, unlocking more Monstrums for the team also means better exploration. Along with a powerful story filled with unique characters, it is the kind of game that is proof of their excellence in the genre.

Best Fighter: Guilty Gear -Strive-

When it comes to the fighting game genre, it’s the community of players who make or break the experience. Luckily, for Guilty Gear: Strive, the community is thriving. The roster of this new entry is packed with new and returning fighters who have been balanced in a way that makes every match up a thrilling fight.

It also helps that this is truly one of the prettiest anime fighters released with some stiller combo animations and level designs. It’s undeniable that not only is this one of the best fighting games released in 2021, but it’s one of the best fighting games of all time.