1. Catherine
A Japanese puzzle game about the complexities of adult relationships was never going to set the charts on fire, and predictably this one didnt. Catherine is one of those rare games that pulls off being both utterly bizarre and yet completely compelling, somehow managing to combine a surreal nightmare world with one of the most relatable and gripping gaming narratives in recent memory. Putting you in the shoes of Peter Pan-syndromed 30 year old Vincent, you have to choose whether to keep flirting with the sexy and mysterious Catherine, or to settle down with nagging long term girlfriend Katherine. The whole game is about dealing with the inevitability of growing up - and grown men in their underwear racing against dream sheep did I mention this was Japanese? The games fiendishly difficult and addictive puzzle sections see you frantically climbing towers , as you constantly pull out blocks to create a path towards the exit all while trying to avoid plummeting to your death. The combination of these demented Jenga-from-Hell sections with the gripping choice based rpg mechanic of the day sections, is unlike anything else in gaming, and ensures that the overall experience stays with you long after you see the credits roll. If youre looking for something a bit different do yourself a favour and pick up this criminally overlooked gem. Which other brilliant games that didn't get the love they deserved belong on this list? Share your own picks below in the comments thread.
Tom Regan
Contributor
Having written for Official Playstation Mag, Godisageek and obviously What Culture. Tom is a London based writer who loves him some games. You may also find his articles lurking in the film and comic sections on rare occasions.
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