Ranking Summer 2017's Video Games From Worst To Best

8. Nidhogg II

Speaking of small indie outfits, the original Nidhogg was one of the most distilled and enjoyable multiplayer experiences you could ever have. Built around a 1v1 setup where two characters can punch, kick or use a variety of weapons, killing your opponent triggers a victory screen way over on the other end of the map - something you'll have to make a mad sprint for.

Get killed, and your opponent's goal is then open.

Cut to literal hours of back n' forth gameplay as you try to outwit your foe at every turn.

Built for couch vs. sessions, this sequel mostly upends the older pixel-based graphical style into an almost 'steampunk Muppets' vibe, adding more weapons that have pros and cons, and changing up levels so there are more platforms and varying heights to navigate. Essentially 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' actually done well, Nidhogg is one of this generation's most essential party games.