Blizzard's long awaited sequel delivers in ways that not only satisfy its most hardcore fans but also manages to be a remarkably accessible jumping on point for newcomers. It's not perfect, and it's bound to have its fair share of doubters -- but Blizzard has created one of the most intense cooperative experiences that's going to be tough to put down for quite some time -- let's just hope it's not another twelve years.

Shogun 2: Total War - Fall of the Samurai

Total War Shogun 2 - Fall of the Samurai is a great addition to an already incredible franchise. Not only does it continue what the others did so well, but it also introduces new gameplay mechanics that change how you play dramatically. For strategy fans, this is another one from Creative Assembly that can't be missed.

Mass Effect 3

Bioware's finale for Commander Shepard is, in a word - -stunning. In even more words, it's gripping, engaging, emotionally charged and painstakingly well done. The entire Mass Effect series has felt like a symphony leading up to this, the crashing crescendo that outdoes everything before it. Most importantly, Mass Effect 3 is a fitting tribute to a universe we've spent the last half decade caring about and will leave you thinking about it long after you've finished it.