10 Best Video Games Of 2017 You Haven't Played

6. Cuphead

A shoe-in for the best-looking game no matter what, Cuphead's charms extend far beyond aesthetics. What Studio MDHR have created is balls-hard, sure, but it's also surmountable, learnable, and loveable.

Playing as the titular Cuphead alongside Mugman (if you want an optional partner), gameplay consists of hyper-detailed boss encounters interspersed with the occasional run n' gun segment for good measure. Power-ups can be gained by spending time in the latter parts, but at some point you'll have to go up against bosses that have fast become known for being sickeningly infuriating.

Cuphead comes into its own during these bouts though, revisiting and perfecting old-school trial n' error gameplay in a way that tends to click just when you're about to call it a day. Each battle will take you half an hour(ish) learning what to do, but once everything comes together you'll match every blow with a dodge, every swipe with a return projectile, taking down these once fearsome annoyances with laser precision.

That feeling, and that alone, is why Cuphead stands a chance at Game of the Year. It's so damn meticulous and passion-filled, and like a reminder of why video games were such a draw in their formative years, so damn loveable.

Still, with only 18% of all Xbox players having managed to get through the final world and a smaller 14% defeating the final boss, good luck seeing it all.