10 Best Xbox One Games Of 2018
3. Below
While it's easy to have forgotten about Below considering it was announced back in 2013, the game itself is certainly worth remembering. The game puts your character far, far away from the camera and the rest of the map is gradually revealed as you trek through it. The art direction here is minimalist and visually stunning.
The game's roguelike design is similar to the best Metroidvanias of 2018, combining intense difficulty with a world too interesting to be left ignored. The way that the map is unveiled slowly and deliberately means you will consistently be caught off-guard by enemies sneaking around the shadows. You will die quite frequently and you'll lose a considerable amount of progress if you're not careful. With the Permadeath feature, there's a heavy amount of pressure attached to every combat encounter. If there's one thing Below isn't, it's relaxing.
However, if you're willing to take on the challenge, there's plenty of good to be found here. Below may be daunting at times and rather demanding, but it's a beautiful-looking venture into a dark, unexplored world that will motivate you to leave no stone unturned.