10 Best Hidden Gem Video Games Of 2022

If you thought 2022 has more great video games than usual, there's a very good reason for that. Because the pandemic forced dozens of projects to be delayed, it feels like every remake, remaster, and sequel that we've been dying to get our hands on has been released at the same time.

Even though the idea that having too much content to play is the definition of a First World Problem, it does create a genuine issue: As everyone is obsessing over Sifu, Tunic, and Elden Ring, there's a myriad of quality titles fighting for scraps.

With gamers spending their hard-earned cash on recognised properties like WWE 2K22, Dying Light 2, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Gran Tursimo 7, Mario Strikers, Kirby and even Cuphead's stunning DLC, masterpieces like Paradise Killer, Cosmonious High and Card Shark have been unfairly overlooked.

If these beat 'em ups, platformers, and shooters were released any other year, they would've got a lot more love. If you're looking for an underrated game that hasn't been overblown with hype, these hidden gems are worth checking out.

Thanks to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge's beautiful gameplay, balanced roster, and slew of nostalgia, there's no question the heroes in a half shell will have the biggest selling beat'em up of the year. This is a pity since other titles in the genre like Dawn of the Monsters have been left on the sidelines.

The story revolves around a horde of colossal beasts called The Nephilim, who invade Earth and reduce human civilisation to rubble. Decades later, humanity has befriended four kaiju, and uses them as guardians to defeat The Nephilim.

The plot may be unimaginative but this 2.D5 side-scroller does a lot to separate itself from other beat'em ups like Final Fight and Streets of Rage. The Viewtiful Joe-like animations make every punch and kick look painful and beautiful. Not only does the game boast a diverse selection of enemies, moves, and Cataclysm Attacks, the story mode is composed of 35 levels, which is guaranteed to keep you entertained for a long, long time.

And in case you are wondering, yes, Dawn of the Monsters supports two-player local co-op, allowing you and a buddy to team up and batter these abominations.

If you've been disappointed by the horde of disappointing Godzilla titles over the years, this game is the closest you're gonna get to feeling like king of the monsters.