Just Cause 2
For an open-world game, Just Cause 2 is a beautiful piece of work. The entire map is visually intoxicating, and the level of graphical detail is amazing. That's why you'll routinely find this game to be part of our benchmark suite.
Based on Avalanche Studios' Wikipedia page, it doesn't look like the developer has a game slated for 2012. However, a generally positive reception and decent sales numbers give us hope that this one will be spun into a Just Cause 3.
Alpha Protocol
Alpha Protocol is an espionage game with a bit of a twist, as each conversation is woven into the plot line. That's what makes this game enjoyable, even on a repeat.
Sega stated that it has no plans to develop a sequel due to lackluster sales and mixed reviews. However, the general concept is pretty solid. What this game needs is a developer able to fix some of its simple weaknesses. Minor issues like the inability to reliably take cover behind objects drag down the enjoyability factor.
Homeworld 2
The Homeworld franchise is another one of those victims of acquisitions and company reshuffling. However, five years ago, things started looking much better because the license and original developer (Relic Studios) were bought up by THQ. In 2008, there were rumors of a Homeworld 3, but nothing seems to have come of that. Should there be a sequel, we're hoping that it sports an updated game engine.
World In Conflict
World In Conflict is one of the best-looking RTTs. The units have a lot of detail, the environments are well-rendered, and the explosions are simply spectacular. This is epic destruction at its best.
While the story ends with successfully repelling a Soviet and Chinese invasion, we hope there's more left to this title. Gameplay is enjoyable, even if you're not a super-sophisticated gamer, since you only have to command a small army, and there's no base or economy to manage.
Burnout Paradise
Back in 2009, we stated, "Burnout Paradise is not only drop-dead gorgeous, but it’s also very easy on the hardware."
There are very few racing games that have lasting entertainment value. To us, repeating the same races and unlocking all of a title's beautiful cars is where things start getting old. However, figuring out new ways to eliminate the competition makes the racing genre a lot more fun. While this franchise was originally developed for consoles, we hope that future titles allow those of us sporting more impressive PC hardware to strut our stuff.
