Games of the Year

RPGFan Games of the Year 2021 ~ Editors’ Awards: Tyler Trosper

RPGFan Games of the Year 2021 Editors Awards

Despite what you might think, a lot of games released in 2021. The year finished in a blur, for me at least, and I had to refresh myself on what actually came out this year.

Top Games of 2021

1. Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy

The latest entry in the Atelier series improves upon every aspect of the previous Ryza in spades. Battles are addicting, alchemy is smooth and user-friendly, and the cast from the first game has grown into more endearing adults. Gust has come a long way since their niche days, and I’m glad to see their efforts are appreciated and experienced by more players.

2. Tales of Arise

Since taking a hiatus after the last game in the series, Tales of Berseria, the hype for the next entry was palpable. With such high expectations, Tales of Arise could have easily been a disappointment. But it wasn’t! With an excellent cast of characters complemented by possibly my favorite battle system in the series, Tales of Arise is easily one of the best games of the year and in the Tales series.

3. Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town

Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town is a chill gaming experience. Whether you are tending your farm, your animals, or interacting with the town’s eclectic residents, you can’t go wrong with however you choose to play the game.

Screenshot From Story Of Seasons Pioneers Of Olive Town

Best Boy of 2021

Dohalim, Tales of Arise

When I first laid eyes on Dohalim, I knew he was something special. Aside from his charismatic charm, Dohalim is a caring soul with a troubled past. He is inquisitive, and, despite his penchant for not picking up on social cues, he tries his best to understand and help his fellow party members.

Best “I can’t believe I waited until 2021 to play this” Game

The House in Fata Morgana

When I first played The House in Fata Morgana, I was sick. I had a strong cough, bad congestion, and was tired. It was 4 a.m., and I just had some nighttime medicine to lull me to sleep. So I decided to boot up a visual novel to help me get to sleep quicker. However, when I started The House in Fata Morgana, I felt like I was being transported into a dark fairytale thanks in part to the game’s surreal and downright amazing soundtrack. Instead of quickly falling asleep, I was sucked into an engrossing world and its fascinating characters. I can’t recommend this game enough.

Tyler Trosper

Tyler Trosper

Tyler Trosper is a news writer for RPGFan. He has an unhealthy obsession with the Xeno franchise, especially Xenosaga. He runs a podcast about the series in his free time and sometimes works on fan projects. Tyler would die happy if Xenosaga Episode IV was announced. Besides Xeno, Tyler enjoys watching anime, his favorite being Neon Genesis Evangelion.