The year 2016 was a landmark one for PC gaming, offering a diverse range of titles that captivated gamers worldwide. From immersive open-world adventures to intense competitive shooters, the Top Rated Pc Games Of 2016 showcased the creativity and innovation of the gaming industry. This article will explore some of the most memorable and critically acclaimed titles, delving into what made them special and why they continue to be cherished by players today. We’ll also look at why these games were rated so highly and what lasting impact they have had on the gaming landscape.
Unveiling the Best PC Games of 2016
2016 was a year of remarkable releases. Gamers were spoiled for choice, with genres ranging from first-person shooters and strategy games to action-RPGs and immersive simulations. Let’s delve into some of the standout titles that earned critical acclaim and a place in the hearts of many.
Overwatch: The Team-Based Hero Shooter Phenomenon
Blizzard’s Overwatch burst onto the scene with its vibrant art style, diverse cast of characters, and highly polished gameplay. This team-based hero shooter redefined the genre, focusing on teamwork and strategic use of unique hero abilities. Its accessibility made it easy to pick up, while the depth of its gameplay offered endless possibilities for mastery.
What truly made Overwatch a hit?
- Diverse Hero Roster: Each character offered a unique playstyle, fostering strategic team compositions.
- Fast-Paced, Addictive Gameplay: The fluid movement and impactful abilities made for engaging, high-energy matches.
- Consistent Updates: Blizzard provided continuous support, adding new heroes, maps, and game modes.
- Competitive Scene: Overwatch‘s strong competitive scene provided long-term engagement for dedicated players.
“Overwatch was a breath of fresh air in the hero shooter space,” says game critic, Anthony Miller. “It proved that you could build a highly successful game around teamwork and accessible gameplay.”
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Blood and Wine: A Grand Finale
While The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was released in 2015, its final expansion Blood and Wine, released in 2016, further cemented its place as a gaming masterpiece. This expansion introduced a new region, Toussaint, filled with breathtaking landscapes, intriguing characters, and a compelling storyline. Blood and Wine not only provided a fitting end to Geralt’s story but also raised the bar for single-player content.
What made Blood and Wine so memorable?
- Stunning Visuals: Toussaint’s vibrant world was a feast for the eyes, offering a refreshing change from the main game.
- Engaging Story: The narrative was both complex and captivating, offering a memorable farewell to Geralt.
- Ample Content: The expansion provided hours of gameplay, with new quests, monsters, and locations to explore.
- Enhanced Mechanics: Improvements to the game’s systems further polished an already exemplary experience.
Dark Souls III: A Grueling, Rewarding Challenge
FromSoftware’s Dark Souls III continued the series’ tradition of challenging, unforgiving gameplay. This action RPG pushed players to their limits, rewarding perseverance and strategic thinking. Its intricate level design, imposing bosses, and atmospheric world created a deeply immersive experience. While it didn’t revolutionize the formula, it refined it to perfection.
What made Dark Souls III stand out?
- Refined Combat: The combat system felt more responsive and fluid compared to its predecessors.
- Intricate Level Design: Each area was carefully crafted, with multiple paths and hidden secrets to discover.
- Memorable Boss Encounters: The boss battles were challenging yet fair, offering a sense of accomplishment upon victory.
- Atmospheric World: The grim, desolate world created a unique and compelling experience.
Civilization VI: A New Era of Turn-Based Strategy
Civilization VI brought fresh ideas to the beloved turn-based strategy series. It introduced new mechanics like districts, which added depth to city building, and a more visually engaging presentation. This entry offered both seasoned veterans and newcomers a deeply satisfying strategic experience.
What made Civilization VI so highly regarded?
- District System: This new mechanic added complexity and depth to city planning.
- Visual Improvements: The game looked more vibrant and detailed than previous entries.
- Strategic Depth: The game offered countless strategic options, fostering replayability.
- Engaging Single-Player: The single-player campaign provided hours of content and a satisfying sense of progression.
DOOM (2016): A Glorious Return to Form
id Software’s reboot of DOOM was a high-octane thrill ride that blended classic gameplay with modern sensibilities. The game’s fast-paced action, brutal combat, and head-banging soundtrack created an adrenaline-fueled experience. DOOM revitalized the classic shooter genre and earned critical acclaim for its pure, unapologetic fun.
Why was DOOM such a hit in 2016?
- Fast-Paced, Intense Action: The gameplay was relentless and kept players on the edge of their seats.
- Visceral Combat: The glory kills and brutal combat mechanics were incredibly satisfying.
- Head-Banging Soundtrack: Mick Gordon’s score perfectly complemented the fast-paced action.
- Successful Reboot: DOOM proved that classic gameplay could be updated for modern audiences.
Comparing the Top Games of 2016
Let’s delve deeper into a comparison of some of these top titles using several criteria.
| Game | Genre | Gameplay Focus | Visual Style | Difficulty | Lasting Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overwatch | Hero Shooter | Team-based combat | Vibrant, cartoonish | Moderate | Popularized the hero shooter genre, strong competitive scene |
| The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine | Action RPG | Story-driven exploration | Detailed, realistic | Moderate | Set a new bar for single-player DLC content, enhanced narrative RPG experiences |
| Dark Souls III | Action RPG | Challenging combat | Dark, gothic | Very High | Maintained the Souls-like formula, inspired many similar games |
| Civilization VI | Turn-based Strategy | Strategic empire building | Detailed, stylized | Moderate | Revamped the city-building system, revitalized turn-based strategy |
| DOOM (2016) | First-Person Shooter | Fast-paced combat | Visceral, brutal | Moderate | Brought back the classic run-and-gun gameplay, high-energy action in modern gaming |
Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 PC Games
Here are some common questions gamers had about the top rated PC games of 2016.
- Q: Why was Overwatch so popular?
A: Overwatch was popular due to its accessible gameplay, diverse hero roster, team-based focus, and continuous updates. Its unique combination of character-driven gameplay and competitive mechanics created a highly engaging experience. - Q: Is The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine worth playing if I haven’t played the main game?
A: While Blood and Wine is a fantastic experience on its own, playing the main game, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, is highly recommended. The expansion provides a satisfying conclusion to Geralt’s story. - Q: Is Dark Souls III too difficult for new players?
A: Dark Souls III is known for its difficulty, but it is not insurmountable. Perseverance and a willingness to learn are key to success. Many players have found the challenge to be highly rewarding. - Q: What is the biggest difference between Civilization V and Civilization VI?
A: The biggest difference is the district system in Civilization VI, which adds a new layer of complexity to city planning. The new system greatly impacts how a player manages and builds their civilization. - Q: How does DOOM (2016) compare to the classic DOOM games?
A: DOOM (2016) maintains the fast-paced, action-packed gameplay of the original games, but it also incorporates modern mechanics, refined combat, and a more robust upgrade system.
What’s Next After Exploring These 2016 Gems?
If you loved these titles from 2016, you may be interested in revisiting other classics or exploring the evolution of these series. For Overwatch fans, Overwatch 2 offers a new take on the formula. Fans of The Witcher 3 might be interested in revisiting the earlier Witcher games or exploring similar narrative-driven RPGs like Cyberpunk 2077. Dark Souls fans might be curious about Elden Ring and other Souls-like games. For strategy fans, other Civilization titles and grand strategy games offer endless hours of gameplay. Shooter fans will want to explore DOOM Eternal which delivers even more of the high-octane gameplay from the reboot.
Conclusion
The top rated PC games of 2016 offered a unique blend of innovation, creativity, and engaging gameplay. These titles continue to be cherished for their distinct qualities and lasting impact. Whether you’re a fan of team-based shooters, epic action-RPGs, or challenging strategy games, 2016 had something for everyone. Revisiting these games today provides a nostalgic look back at a remarkable year in gaming, and it’s a reminder of the incredible experiences that can be found in the world of PC games.
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