The Best Games of 2017 So Far (First Half)

First quarter of 2017 is nearly ending, and we’re taking a look back at the most highest-rated games here at Sirus Gaming. It’s been quite a year especially for both triple-A titles and indie games. We have scored a lot of games, and there are still some that needs reviewing.

However, there are games that may not be listed here and that might be because: 1.) we didn’t receive a review code 2.) no one in the team bought the game for them to review. When time passes by and we might possibly get that game and review it, this list will be updated.

So here are Sirus Gaming’s best games in the first half of 2017. (DLCs are not included)Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Capcom | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“So if you’re a scaredy cat like me or you just want to prove how fearless you are, I totally recommend that you play this game. I can say that it will definitely change the way you perceive horror games. May it be that you probably don’t want to play it again or that you would want to relive the encounter over and over to make yourself numb to the scare. I love to be scared and I love the satisfying relief that it brings when you overcome it, and I can’t wait for the next installment of this game or the next DLC they provide because this game is absolutely satisfying. Now let me go hide in the corner so that the Baker family doesn’t catch me.” – Read the full review.


Gravity Rush 2

Platform: PS4 | Developer: SIE Japan Studio
Score: 8.9 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“I would daresay that Gravity Rush 2 will be a main addition to any collector’s library and there’s just so much to do in this game that even when you finish the main story, you will come backfor the side missions and the challenges. You can even just go in and do a little bit of sightseeing just to enjoy the environment and scenery that this game provides. I hope that they will make a third game and I can’t wait to see what else they have in store for the Gravity Queen.” – Read the full review.


Tales of Berseria

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Bandai Namco | Other Platforms: PS3, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Maria Kamille Chavez

“Overall, the game’s battle system is probably the most enjoyable among the whole series although there may be too many information to take in during the tutorials for a first time player of the franchise. It would take a lot of time to take in the whole essence of the battle system. The equipment and enhancement system may be quite frustrating at first but I encourage first-timers to not be discouraged by this.” – Read the full review.


For Honor

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: David Rix

“Overall, For Honor is a unique multiplayer experience that brings the art of intimate combat mixed in with the fan faction of your favorite warriors clashing to the death. Ubisoft has another great title under its belt that has a long life ahead of it, with seasons to see which faction is the victor and looming on the horizon is the Events mode, which is sure to add even more of the competitive spirit among player factions. Although, it isn’t without its faults, that doesn’t deter from the quality you are sure to have with the game and the fun of chopping off a vikings head with a samurai’s blade.” – Read the full review.


Horizon: Zero Dawn

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Guerrilla Games
Score: 10 / 10 | Reviewed by: Lexuzze Tablante

Horizon: Zero Dawn is the game that perfected the open-world RPG genre, there are still a lot of secrets that I have yet to uncover in the ruins beyond the land of the tribes. The minor faults didn’t affect my final score for Horizon since the great parts of the game outweighs it. Horizon entices me to come back for more, there was never a time that I got bored with its side-missions which I usually care less in most RPG titles. Horizon: Zero Dawn is by far the best cinematic and most immersive game I’ve played this year.” – Read the full review.


NieR: Automata

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Platinum Games | Other Platforms: PC
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Haidee Pinote

“But despite these areas where the game might need some improvement on, this game is quite a huge success. It caught my attention from start to finish and it made me yearn for more when it ended. As what a famous quote said, “All good things come to those who wait.”” – Read the full review.


Berserk and the Band of the Hawk

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Omega Force | Other Platforms: PS3, PS Vita, PC
Score: 8.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Jem Sagcal

“Though you may do get bored from time to time with its unchallenging levels and repetitive gameplay, blasting through enemies and beating monsters’ asses are still fun experiences. You may also choose stay for its gripping and emotionally captivating story, as well as the intensity of the characters you get to control. I love it simply for its stunning manga-style yet realistic graphics, its story, and because I can still appreciate a Dynasty Warriors format. You may choose it for these reasons too, and especially if you are someone that enjoys a good hack-and-slash.” – Read the full review.


NiOh

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Omega Force
Score: 10 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“This is an excellent game and a game like this deserves to have a spot in your collection. Whether you’re a newbie to challenging games like this or you’re a veteran who knows the mechanics too well. This is a game that’s worth your money and time. I would happily go back into it to kill another yokai.” – Read the full review.


Yakuza 0

Platform: PS4 | Developer: SEGA
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: John Fernandez

“Yakuza 0 is unique in that you do not need any introduction to the series to enjoy it, it is a prequel after all. It also serves as a great way to get into the long running cult crime series. The game has indeed aged with outdated combat and visuals, but beyond those problems is a game with a rich world, strong story, and tons of activities to do.” – Read the full review.


Torment: Tides of Numenera

Platform: PS4 | Developer: inXile Entertainment | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Jem Sagcal

“Torment: Tide of Numenera is many things; it is unique and wonderfully artistic. Though to me, the combat may be a bit out of touch, but everything is else is worth a time. It is definitely worth hours. Personality and a narrative that’s touching on the importance of the imagination capable of texts albeit in a video game is an experience that you may not find elsewhere. Human touch in a video game is why video games make for great escapes, for vast story telling, and for detailed narratives.” – Read the full review.


Hollow Knight

Platform: PC | Developer: Team Cherry
Score: 8.7 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Overall, I truly enjoyed the experience this game has brought me. It has given me just the right amount of challenge and yet it’s also not letting you get off easy. The game even has a hardcore mode if you want an even more challenging experience as this mode offers permanent death. This game is not a walk in the park but once you get over the obstacles it gives you, what you get is a game that makes you feel accomplished and makes you yearn for more of that experience.” – Read the full review.


Loot Rascals

Platform: PC | Developer: Hollow Ponds | Other Platforms: PS4
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Roxanne Co

“A great title for the genre and definitely worth the investment.” – Read the full review.


Night in the Woods

Platform: PC | Developer: Infinite Fall | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, Wii U
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Jem Sagcal

“All I can confirm with absolution is that I loved it and it’s an experience I will take on again. I will read theories and I will understand the certain mental issues discussed. I will listen to the game’s soundtrack because the music is beautiful; it’s jazzy and relaxing. I will, also, most probably download wallpaper for my phone because I can guarantee, it has too much heart and soul to not be forgotten.

Lastly, Gregg rulz ok.” – Read the full review.


The Walking Dead: A New Frontier – Episode 3: Above the Law

Platform: PC | Developer: Telltale Games | Other Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, iOS, Android
Score: 8.7 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Overall, the Walking Dead continues to deliver a great and compelling story and that it had me following it from start to end. As we move to the penultimate episode, I am excited to see where this all leads up to and what will ultimately happen to this new town and the people we have come to love.” – Read the full review.


Rain World

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Videocult | Other Platforms: PC
Score: 8.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Kimberly Mae Go

“While working on my own review, I knew that the game received a lot of bad reviews. I did not want to read other reviews because I didn’t want my review to be influenced by others. Most people hate what they cannot understand. But for me, you can’t just hate a game simply because it’s difficult (what about Dark Souls?). When you’re playing to have fun, you need to give Rain World plenty of time to get the best out of it.” – Read the full review.


Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment

Platform: Switch | Developer: Yacht Club Games | Other Platforms: Wii U, 3DS, PC
Score: 9.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: David Rix

“Overall, Specter of Torment is a fabulous addition to the Shovel Knight title and further proves that Yacht Club Games are masters of their craft. Gameplay is fast and brimming with action, while adding hints of challenge. Specter Knight is an interesting character and a joy to play, while having an interesting story to boot. There’s more than enough meat to justify your purchase, and it is a succulent dish indeed to experience.” – Read the full review.


The Sexy Brutale

Platform: PC | Developer: Cavalier Game Studios | Other Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Score: 9.2 / 10 | Reviewed by: Roxanne Co

“I honestly believe that Cavalier and Tequila hit the nail right on the head for this one.” – Read the full review.


Yooka-Laylee

Platform: PC | Developer: Team17 | Other Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Lexuzze Tablante

“Even if Yooka-Laylee is inspired from Banjo-Kazooie, since ex-Rare developers joined up with Team17, for players who didn’t get to play the aforementioned game will definitely enjoy this Banjoo-successor. The worlds you get to explore, the characters you meet, and how visually spectacular the game is, Yooka-Laylee is a platformer that you don’t want to miss.” – Read the full review.


The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Platform: Switch | Developer: Nintendo | Other Platforms: WiiU
Score: 10 / 10 | Reviewed by: David Rix

“Overall, Breath of the Wild is the game to have on your Switch or Wii U. Not only that, but it’s one of the rare phenomenon type of games that come around once in a blue moon. Pokémon was one, Skyrim was one, and — without a shadow of a doubt — Breath of the Wild is one too. Not many games are able to emulate the sense of adventure and wonder that Breath of the Wild has; it’s a game you’ll be playing for a long time and one you’ll definitely keep coming back to. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a game of legends and one you don’t want to skip out on” – Read the full review.


Persona 5

Platform: PS4| Developer: Atlus | Other Platforms: PS3
Score: 10 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Overall, Persona 5 has really captured my heart. With 70+ hours of gaming, I haven’t had this much fun since the last Persona game. I will definitely keep playing it and will even play it into the New Game+. The New Game Plus allows you to keep certain items that you have gotten from the game but it resets your relationship meter with the characters among other things. If you are into old school JRPG, this is definitely the game you have been waiting for. At its price point the game is totally worth it and even more. I am even willing to spend for this game’s DLC. It’s just that good. Now let me get back to the game and see if I can pass this school exam.” – Read the full review.


Little Nightmares

Platform: PS4| Developer: Tarsier Studios | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Lexuzze Tablante

Little Nightmares gives you what a platformer game needs to be. I enjoyed every bit of its level design and its creepiness. There’s nothing more I can say about Tarsier Studios latest title – it’s a nightmare you probably would love to spend your whole night in.” – Read the full review.


Mass Effect: Andromeda

Platform: PC | Developer: Bioware | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PS4
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: James Gopperton

“From the perspective of a new fan of the Mass Effect franchise, this game was a huge amount of fun and I never felt myself left out for not having played the other 3 Mass Effect games.” – Read the full review.


The Walking Dead: A New Frontier – Episode 4: Thicker than Water

Platform: PC | Developer: Telltale Games | Other Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, iOS, Android
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Although I can’t wait to see what happens in the next episode. It’s leaving me feeling like the game has not moved at all. For the last 2 episodes we’ve only been introduced to one location, not like what we had for the last 2 seasons where almost each episode takes us to a different place. I hope that this game will still be able to reinvent itself and introduce us to more locations and characters in the future. But right now it seems that they slowed things down and just focused on the characters and not the location.” – Read the full review.


LEGO City Undercover

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Traveller’s Tale | Other Platforms: PC, Xbox One, Switch
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

Lego City Undercover is a fun and entertaining game. If you love anything that’s Lego and want to immerse yourself in an open world that comes alive and reacts to whatever you do, then this is a game worth playing. The amusement it provides is worthwhile and it’s one of those games that you would love going back to. Lego City Undercover is Lego’s answer to Grand Theft Auto and I can say that they definitely delivered. And the best part? You can play this with a friend!” – Read the full review.


Ulimate Marvel vs Capcom 3

Platform: PC | Developer: Capcom | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PS4
Score: 8.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Dale Kakilala

Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 is a one way ticket to nostalgia express if you are a fan of the Versus series. However, this is a flawed experience for you if you are just a common gamer because of its limited content and bad multiplayer.” – Read the full review.


Super Rude Bear Ressurection

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Alex Rose Games | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: David Rix

“Overall, Super Rude Bear Resurrection is a platformer, which shouldn’t slip under your radar, especially if you like getting kicked in the balls. You’ll die over and over again, but you’ll have a lot of fun doing so, while some grimey music blasts in the background. Also, be sure to try and beat the whole game without dying, there’s a $1000 waiting for you at the end of it.” – Read the full review.


Outlast 2

Platform: PC | Developer: Red Barrel Games | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PS4
Score: 8.2 / 10 | Reviewed by: Justin Janitzek

“For the most part, Outlast 2 ticks all the boxes when it comes to presentation. The story may seems convoluted at first but given enough time and introspection, it can be rewarding. As of now though, the revelations are left to speculations and interpretations.” – Read the full review.


The Surge

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Deck13 | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Rachelle Tan

“I would also say that mecha or sci-fi fans will love this game as much as I do for even at the first couple of hours of game time — I had already immersed with the game. It was hard for me to let go of my controller, the action was getting to me and it set my carnage on rampage.” – Read the full review.


Seasons After Fall

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Swing Swing Submarine | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Rachelle Tan

“Seasons After Fall‘s story is almost  like a child’s favorite bedtime book with its adorable illustrations. Making the story not too complicated to understand, but the message it conveyed was deep. Its music is very relaxing coupled with sounds of nature making it so pleasant to the ears.” – Read the full review.


Prey

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Arkane Studios | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 8.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Despite the fact that there were technical difficulties, I still enjoyed the game thoroughly. And as much as I would like to talk more details about it, it is better that you explore this dangerous ship to discover them all.” – Read the full review.


Injustice 2

Platform: PS4 | Developer: NetherRealms | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 9.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: David Rix

“Overall, Injustice 2 is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre. It features one of the best super hero stories of all time, defying expectations of both the genre and the medium. Not only that, but it’s the best looking fighting game to date, with the best facial expressions in a game since Uncharted 4. To top it all off, it has solid fighting mechanics and is bolstered with its smooth experience both online and offline. It’s a game that soars sky high and one that shouldn’t be missed, no matter what universe.” – Read the full review.


RiME

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Tequila Works | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC, Switch
Score: 8.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Lexuzze Tablante

“In the end, RiME is a beautiful piece and I loved every second I spent in this magical game. It’s an emotional adventure, and that’s what it makes RiME a stunning title despite the performance issues it has.” – Read the full review.


Tekken 7

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Bandai Namco | Other Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Score: 9.5 / 10 | Reviewed by: Leif Bornales

“Tekken 7 at its core, is a pure fighting game. It’s a game that has been around for decades and has proven that you can teach old dogs new tricks. With its multitude of features and game modes, Tekken 7 is here to stay. It’s a long-standing game that old and new gamers alike will be able to enjoy. A game that will forever stand the test of time.” – Read the full review.


DiRT 4

Platform: Xbox One | Developer: Codemasters | Other Platforms: PS4, PC
Score: 9.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Jonathan Quirino

“Overall, Dirt 4 delivers unforgettable moments for the fans and racing enthusiasts, the experience that the game gives you is like you’re actually driving the car itself. Winning is also satisfying, not because you’re fast, but you’re skilled. You also need to be smart on how to drive your car in different situations, and you must always listen to your co-driver. Dirt Rally was a success but Dirt 4 gives you more what Dirt Rally is lacking. If you’re looking for a racing game that gives you challenges and test your skills, then Dirt 4 is your game.” – Read the full review.


WipEout Omega Collection

Platform: PS4 | Developer: Sony Studio Liverpool
Score: 8.0 / 10 | Reviewed by: Hans Jurado

“This isn’t a game everybody would appreciate, especially those who aren’t racing game fans, even I myself, wasn’t really a fan of the franchise before but after spending hours of playing the game, I got to see the game’s imperfections but I was just happy that I got to play the franchise again and seeing all the slick visual and gameplay improvisions, with or without the 4k setup, it sure made my experience worthwhile.” – Read the full review.