2017's Game Of The Year: The Ultimate Winner!

Alright, gamers, let's rewind to 2017, a year that gifted us some truly incredible video game experiences. We're talking about a time when the industry was firing on all cylinders, delivering titles that pushed boundaries, captivated audiences, and, of course, sparked some serious debates about which game deserved the coveted title of Game of the Year. So, who snagged the top prize in 2017? Buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into the nominees, the winners, and the reasons why these games resonated so strongly with players and critics alike. Get ready for a trip down memory lane, filled with epic battles, heart-wrenching stories, and some seriously impressive graphics. It's time to relive the glory of 2017's gaming scene! This year was a battleground of gaming titans, each vying for the ultimate recognition. From sprawling open worlds to tightly crafted narratives, the competition was fierce. It's like, seriously fierce. Trying to choose a single winner from such a talented pool of games is a monumental task, but hey, that's what makes this whole thing so exciting, right?

The Contenders: A Look at the Nominees

Before we unveil the champion, let's give props to the amazing games that were even in the running for Game of the Year in 2017. These titles weren't just good; they were exceptional. They represented the pinnacle of gaming achievement, pushing the envelope in terms of gameplay, storytelling, and overall player experience. Each game brought something unique to the table, creating a diverse and exciting landscape for gamers everywhere. The nominees are:

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: Nintendo completely reimagined the Zelda formula with this open-world masterpiece. Breath of the Wild gave players unprecedented freedom to explore, experiment, and uncover the secrets of Hyrule. The vastness of the world, combined with its innovative gameplay mechanics, made it a true standout. Seriously, the ability to climb anything? Genius. This game set a new standard for open-world exploration.
• Persona 5: Atlus delivered a stylish and captivating JRPG that blended social simulation with turn-based combat. The game's vibrant visuals, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack made it an instant classic. This game had everyone talking, from its intricate plot to its addictive gameplay loop. This one wasn't just a game; it was an experience.
• Horizon Zero Dawn: Guerrilla Games unleashed a stunning action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by robotic creatures. Horizon Zero Dawn impressed with its gorgeous graphics, engaging story, and unique combat system. This game proved that a new IP could make a huge impact. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted world and compelling characters. The game's strong female lead, Aloy, also resonated with players, making her an instant icon in the gaming world.
• PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG): This battle royale sensation took the world by storm, popularizing the genre and captivating millions of players with its tense, last-player-standing gameplay. It was all the rage, wasn’t it? PUBG's addictive nature and unique premise kept players hooked for hours on end, and it demonstrated how a simple concept could lead to global success.
• Super Mario Odyssey: Nintendo's flagship platformer returned in a big way with Super Mario Odyssey. The game's innovative use of Cappy, Mario's new hat-shaped companion, added a whole new layer of gameplay depth and creativity. This game was pure fun, and it showed that Nintendo still had the magic touch. The game's vibrant worlds, imaginative level design, and charming characters made it a joy to play from start to finish. Mario never disappoints!

Each of these games, in its own way, redefined what was possible in the gaming world. They all had a strong claim to the title. But, only one could rise to the top.

And the Winner Is... The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild!

So, after much anticipation and deliberation, the award for Game of the Year in 2017 went to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild! This game was a critical and commercial success, earning rave reviews and breaking sales records worldwide. It was a clear favorite for many, and it's easy to see why. Breath of the Wild took everything we loved about the Zelda series and amplified it, creating an experience that felt both familiar and completely new. The game's open-world design was revolutionary, allowing players to explore Hyrule in a way they never had before.

The freedom to climb any surface, glide through the air, and experiment with the game's physics engine made exploration a constant source of wonder and discovery. The game's story, while not as central as in some other Zelda titles, was still engaging and provided a strong narrative backbone for the player's journey. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the use of the Sheikah Slate and the ability to cook food, added depth and complexity to the experience. The game's artistic style was also a departure for the series, opting for a more painterly, cel-shaded aesthetic that helped give the game a unique visual identity. The way the developers crafted the world made it feel alive, and this level of detail made exploring Hyrule even more rewarding. It was a true masterpiece, and for many, it was a no-brainer for Game of the Year. It deserved the win, no doubt. The game wasn't just a win for Nintendo; it was a win for gaming in general.

Why Breath of the Wild Deserved the Title

Breath of the Wild achieved something special: it reinvented a beloved franchise while simultaneously setting a new standard for open-world games. It's the kind of game that comes along once in a generation, and for many, it's a defining experience of the Nintendo Switch era. Its freedom, its depth, and its sheer sense of adventure combined to create something truly magical. The game's success wasn't just about good gameplay; it was about the feeling it evoked. The sense of wonder, the excitement of discovery, and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges all contributed to an unforgettable experience. The game was a testament to the power of game design, storytelling, and innovation. It also proved that a well-designed game can capture the imagination of players of all ages and backgrounds. It’s the kind of game that you can play for hours, and still feel like you've only scratched the surface. The game has a lot of replayability and there are many different ways to explore the game world.

The Impact of 2017's GOTY

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild not only won the Game of the Year award, but it also had a profound impact on the gaming industry as a whole. Its success inspired other developers to rethink their approach to open-world design, and its innovative gameplay mechanics influenced countless other games. The game's success helped to solidify the Nintendo Switch as a major player in the console market, and it introduced a whole new generation of gamers to the magic of the Zelda series. This win helped show how important the single-player experience is. The game was also a critical and commercial success, and it won several other awards and accolades, solidifying its place in gaming history.

The Legacy of a Champion

Looking back at 2017, it's clear that it was a banner year for gaming. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stood out as the undisputed champion, but the other nominees also made their mark. Their impact is still felt today, as these games continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by players around the world. The legacy of Breath of the Wild continues, with a sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, released in 2023, which also garnered widespread acclaim. The spirit of innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence that defined 2017 continues to inspire developers and gamers alike. Gaming is an ever-evolving medium, and years like 2017 serve as a reminder of its incredible potential. The game proved that games can be both entertaining and artistic, and that they can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. The impact of Breath of the Wild is still felt today, and its success paved the way for future open-world games. The game's impact also shows how much people value games.

Beyond the Award: Other Notable Games of 2017

While Breath of the Wild took home the big prize, 2017 was a year brimming with other fantastic titles. Let's give some love to a few more standouts that deserve recognition:

• Super Mario Odyssey: This game was a fantastic return to form for Mario. Its creative level design and charming characters made it a joy to play. It was a must-have for the Nintendo Switch.
• Horizon Zero Dawn: A stunning open-world action RPG that introduced us to a memorable new IP. The game's visual beauty and engaging story made it a real hit. It was a beautiful game!
• Persona 5: A stylish and addictive JRPG that won over fans with its vibrant visuals and memorable characters. It's a game with a lot of style.
• Nier: Automata: This game was an action RPG that gained attention for its deep philosophical themes and unique gameplay mechanics. It's a must-play for a more mature gamer.
• Resident Evil 7: Biohazard: A return to form for the survival horror franchise. The game gave players a new experience. It was great to see it be a success.

2017 was a year that was truly memorable! All of these games, and many others, contributed to making 2017 a year to remember for gamers. It was a year full of great gaming moments!

Conclusion: Celebrating a Year of Gaming Greatness

So, there you have it, folks! 2017 was a year that gave us some of the best games ever made. From open-world adventures to stylish RPGs, the games of 2017 pushed boundaries and created experiences that we're still talking about today. While The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild took home the crown, it's important to remember that all of the nominees were exceptional games that made the year special.

It's a testament to the power of gaming as an art form, and a reminder of the joy and excitement that video games bring to our lives. So, the next time you're looking for a great game to play, consider revisiting some of the titles from 2017. You won't be disappointed. It was a great year for the gaming industry! So, next time someone asks you about the best games of all time, you can confidently tell them about the magic of 2017! Keep on gaming!