Best overlooked games of 2007

As 2007 just ended I checked around the internet for critics picks of great games over the last year that woefully fell under the radar of popular acclaim. These always tend to be the real gems that don’t get the recognition they deserve due to poor marketing or being just too weird for main stream audiences (games like Odin Sphere, Katamari, Psychonauts, Okami, REZ, etc…).

Gamasutra had a good list this year and coming in near the top was Raw Danger, a game with an absolutely horrible name and budget pricing to scare away most gamers. I picked it up today for a measely $14.99 and after a few hours into it I have to say this is already one of the most engaging games I’ve ever played. Anyone that likes the adventure genre, and especially games exploring new narrative territory similar to Indigo Prophecy, should definitely check this game out.

It certainly has its flaws regarding gameplay mechanics, the camera behavior for example can get really frustrating, but the story and environment progression are so well done that these quirks are easily forgiven.

Anyway, I’m throwing this game out as my pick for most under appreciated game of 2007, Odin Sphere is a close second. But I’m curious about other people’s picks.

Ethan

Ubisoft’s budget release of InXile’s The Bard’s Tale (5€ here in germany). Great designed roleplaying game with fantastic humour. Surprisingly it’s way funnier than Sam&Max. Featuring great accents too. I just love the way they pronounce four! :O)

http://www.thebardstale.com/soundtrack/beer_beer_beer.mp3

Dungeon Maker: Hunting Ground (only on PSP and Japanese DS) rocks …

If this thing ever makes an English-language DS port I’ll buy a DS for myself (both the kids have one). That’ll give me an excuse to play Zelda Phantom Hourglass too.