20 Best Video Games Of 2019 (So Far)

1. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Easily the most polished, experimental and all-round proficient game this year is Sekiro.

If we're talking juggling combos and hyper-extended animation strings, Devil May Cry is your takeaway pick, but when it comes to pure game design; labyrinthine levels, pinpoint precise combat, brutal-but-rewarding gameplay curves and epic, memorable visuals, it's Sekiro all the way.

In a brilliant twist on the standard "Souls formula", Sekiro is all about timing and counterattacks. You want to get VERY familiar with that block button, because although you can hold it down, match a press with any incoming attack and you'll absorb all the damage, rather than taking it.

Apply this to bosses that attack in rhythm, one-off enemies that require additional tactics like charging into a spear stab and the ability to wield freakin' lightning, and you have a base moveset that feels incredible to deploy and master.

Yes, FromSoftware's signature difficulty spikes put a HUGE number of players off, but if you can tango with Shadows Die Twice, the ride is unlike anything else.