Choosing the best games of the year is always a tough call, and 2022 was no exception. With so many amazing titles to choose from, it’s tough to pick just five that stood out from the pack. From blockbuster AAA releases that took the gaming world by storm, to indie gems that challenged our expectations of what games could be, 2022 was a year that truly had it all.
But before we get into the top five, there are a few other games that deserve a shoutout. These titles are definitely worth checking out, and in some cases, could easily have made the cut. Take Stray, for instance – a game that lets you explore a sprawling world through the eyes of a cat. Or The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe, which somehow manages to be even more mind-bending than the original. And let’s not forget about Bayonetta 3 and Xenoblade Chronicles 3, two beloved franchises that delivered yet again in 2022.
So without further ado, let’s get to the main event. Here are the best five games of 2022, hand-picked by the expert editorial staff at Player.me:
5. Dwarf Fortress

Hold on to your keyboards, because an indie game that’s been in development for over 20 years has made it onto our list. We were just as shocked as you when Dwarf Fortress dropped on Steam in the waning days of 2022, boasting completely revamped graphics and technical wizardry. To say this game is hard to describe would be an understatement.
At its core, Dwarf Fortress is a fantasy simulation game that puts you in charge of a bustling colony of dwarves. But don’t let its deceptively simple name fool you – this game is a masterclass in deep mechanics and open-ended gameplay that will have you hooked for hours on end.
We’ve got a soft spot for indie games around here, but Dwarf Fortress isn’t just any old indie darling. It truly delivers on its promise of a unique gaming experience that you won’t find anywhere else. And that’s why it’s easily one of the best games of the year, and then some.
4. Immortality

If you consider video games to be a true art form, then Immortality is undoubtedly one of the most shining examples of this in 2022. While its gameplay mechanics may seem familiar at first glance, it’s the incredible storytelling that sets this game apart from the rest.
In Immortality, you’ll take on the role of a video editor tasked with uncovering the mystery behind actress Marissa Marcel’s disappearance. Using real footage from three different films and a host of unique gameplay mechanics, you’ll need to collect clues and solve puzzles to unravel the truth. And if that hasn’t already got you hooked, we should also mention that the game was produced by the team behind the critically acclaimed Her Story.
Comparing Immortality to other games in its genre doesn’t quite do it justice – this is a game that truly stands on its own. And it’s a testament to the developers that they were able to challenge our preconceptions of what games can be. When people talk about the best storytelling in games, Immortality is a name that will undoubtedly come up time and time again.
3. God of War Ragnarok

When God of War hit shelves in 2018, it completely changed the game for the series – and the entire gaming industry. It’s no exaggeration to say that it’s one of the greatest games of all time. And with its sequel Ragnarok dropping in 2022, we’re happy to report that it not only lives up to the hype, but actually manages to raise the bar even higher.
Playing Ragnarok is like mainlining AAA gaming goodness. From the jaw-dropping graphics to the impeccable technical details and top-notch mechanics, everything about this game screams “Elite”. And let’s not forget the perfect pairing of voice-over work and music, which combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Do yourself a favour and play God of War Ragnarok, the next (And possibly final) chapter in Kratos’ journey through Norse mythology. It’s a game that you’ll remember for years to come – and we predict it will eventually make its way to PC in the next year or two, looking better than ever before.
2. Vampire Survivors

Oh boy. When was the last time a game managed to create a whole new genre? It’s been a minute, to say the least. But in 2022, Vampire Survivors burst onto the scene and completely redefined what we thought was possible. This indie game flawlessly combines idle gameplay mechanics with roguelike elements to create something truly special.
Playing Vampire Survivors is an experience unlike any other. From the moment you start playing, you’ll be hooked on the genre-bending mechanics and constantly-updated content. And while it’s already one of the best games of 2022, we’re confident that it’ll continue to hold that title for years to come.
But perhaps what’s most impressive is the fact that the first version of Vampire Survivors was developed by just one person. It’s a true testament to the talent and creativity of indie developers that they’re able to create something so groundbreaking with so little. And with a team of equally talented developers now supporting the game, we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.
So if you’re looking for a game that you can play for hours on end or just want to sneak in a quick half-hour session before bed, look no further than Vampire Survivors. It’s a game that’s truly worth sinking your teeth into.
1. Elden Ring

Elden Ring is the game of the year. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. FromSoftware has outdone themselves with this masterpiece, taking their beloved Souls-like genre to new heights.
Lands Between is a world like no other, filled with wonder and danger in equal measure. The open-world design is nothing short of stunning, with surprises and secrets around every corner. But what really sets Elden Ring apart is its ability to keep you on your toes. The gameplay is as challenging as it is rewarding, demanding your full attention and skill at all times.
This is a game that will test even the most seasoned of players, and yet it never feels unfair. Every death is a lesson learned, every victory a hard-earned triumph. And with so much content to explore and uncover, it’s a game that will keep you coming back for more.
It’s hard to imagine anyone not falling in love with Elden Ring. Even those who aren’t fans of the genre will find something to appreciate in this stunning masterpiece. And hey – we still continue to play every day. We’re preparing guides that can help you as you play:
- How to Switch Arrows in Elden Ring?
- What Does Focus Do in Elden Ring?
- Best Interactive Map for Elden Ring
- Which One Is Better for Elden Ring, Controller or Keyboard?
- How to Fix Connection Errors in Elden Ring?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Won Game of the Year 2023?
In 2022, the highly anticipated Elden Ring took home the coveted Game of the Year award at The Game Awards and other major award shows. But Elden Ring wasn’t the only game that captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Vampire Survivors and God of War Ragnarok also managed to win a lot of awards from different ceremonies.
Is 2022 a Good Year for Gaming?
Actually one of the best. You can see why when you look at the list of games – excellent AAA games followed by some great indie with great ideas and mechanics. In addition to the games we mentioned in this article, here are some great games coming out in 2022: Horizon Forbidden West, Tunic, Norco, Cult of the Lamb, Pentiment, Return of Monkey Island and many more.
What Is the Best Free-to-Play Game?
Choosing the right game to play is always a subjective matter. For Battle Royale lovers, games like Fortnite and Apex Legends offer endless hours of adrenaline-fueled excitement. Meanwhile, fans of MOBA games can indulge in the likes of Dota 2 or League of Legends. Other standout games in various genres include Path of Exile, Genshin Impact, CS2, Overwatch 2, Rocket League, and New World.
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- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.