16. Journey
Despite the short game experience, Journey is heartfelt and meaningful, and the incredible graphics and setting will mean this will take that special place in your heart; a game that will touch you in ways that the bigger, flashier games could never do. This truly is a Journey, as well as a beautiful interactive parable and work of art. The game is anonymous, meaning there's no voice and no text, yet you still must interact with others to solve some problems - the meaning of gesture is emphasised and the general storyline leaves you feeling a little elated. Like sitting on a cloud, I imagine...but prettier.
17. The Walking Dead
Based on the award winning comic book series, The Walking Dead is about a world devastated by an apocalypse, and the horrifying choices you're forced to make. Without a doubt one of the most shocking, emotive, gripping series to date, you will find yourself glued for hours as you work through the various chapters. Choices made at the start of the game reflect even in the last chapters, ensuring a truly interactive and psychologically thrilling experience.
18. Sleeping Dogs
It's unclear why more people aren't paying attention to Sleeping Dogs. The game does things to astound and astonish the player from the word go, and doesn't relent throughout the whole game. The thing that really makes Sleeping Dogs, however, is the storyline. There are a few finicky issues, but the fact this game plays really well for the most part is just a bonus point for us.
19. Forza Horizon
Forza Horizon is the first game in the series to go beyond the circuit. The game still maintains its trademark realistic handling, but now you can explore an enormous open world. It's the first Forza game to feature night races, off-road races and illegal street races, meaning that it's a lot more relaxed and less serious than its predecessor, Forza Motorsport 4.
20. The Simpsons: Tapped Out
Okay, so it's not
technically a console game (although with the range of iOS games coming out, it may as well be classed as one), but we couldn't go through a 'Best of 2012' list without mentioning Tapped Out. This 'freemium' gem is exclusive to iOS (sorry, Android users) and begins with Homer blowing up Springfield. Cue your entrance: rebuilding the 'new' Springfield. With added bonuses such as holiday specials (at the moment, Ned's dragged his kids out into the snow on a snowmobile), the game will keep us tapping away well into the new year.