10 Video Game Moments That Made Us Say, “Now That’s Next-Gen!”

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Over time, we’ve encountered many amazing instances within numerous games we’ve played. Yet, the latest generation gaming hardware combined with cutting-edge engines has fueled an array of games that have made it challenging to distinguish reality from their presented worlds. These games offer awe-inspiring moments that underscore how far we’ve progressed from the pixelated gaming experiences of yesteryears.

Absolutely, flashy graphics aren’t the only factor that sets a game apart. In fact, they can significantly enhance the player’s experience by drawing them deeper into the virtual worlds displayed on their screens. With this in mind, let’s delve into ten extraordinary moments from our recent gaming sessions with current-generation games that were so impressive, we found ourselves pausing, wide-eyed and amazed at the spectacle unfolding before us.

#10. Horizon Forbidden West’s Stunning World

Right from the start of Aloy’s newest journey, it was clear that the world had been meticulously crafted. The Decima engine brought to life a realm where plants, animals, weather, and landscape harmoniously combined to offer an immersive experience that would undoubtedly captivate viewers and demonstrate the PS5’s graphical capabilities at their finest.

We were amazed by the Tremortusk when we discovered it in its natural habitat, and the Thunderjaw’s lethal aggression was even more awe-inspiring after its modernized upgrade, standing out significantly from its appearance in Zero Dawn.

Guerilla Games’ imaginative presentation of Aloy’s new world through its opening credits, filled with creativity and meticulous detail, remains one of our standout moments in recent years. The experience is further enhanced by a melancholic, eerie tune that underscores the montage, hinting at the wonders of the Forbidden West that lay ahead.

#9. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End’s Madagascar Set Piece

Nate and Sam’s thrilling escapades gained renewed vigor when “Uncharted 4” was upgraded for the PlayStation 5, as part of Naughty Dog’s “Legacy of Thieves” compilation. The studio is quite skilled at creating epic scenes, but the sequence where Nate and Sam struggle to escape a relentless caravan of armed vehicles on a motorcycle is one we can’t help replaying repeatedly.

The enhanced graphics and seamless performance due to cutting-edge technology made this chase sequence a spectacular demonstration of what such hardware is capable of, even within older games. Every bustling street, muddy path, or explosive vehicle was meticulously detailed, while the tension of the pursuit only heightened the scene rather than detracting from it.

In newer gaming platforms, the fires from Nate’s wrecked car appeared even more perilous. On the other hand, the way Naughty Dog skillfully included endearing dialogue among their characters amid insurmountable odds in this sequence is what makes it an unforgettable topic for future discussions.

#8. Ride 5 On A Rainy Day

Despite suggesting that owners of the prior game might want to skip this one, there’s no denying that Ride 5 was a breathtaking addition to the next-generation gaming landscape. Achieving a convincing first-person perspective is quite challenging for any studio, given the vast amount of detail required to deliver an immersive and authentic experience.

It’s fortunate that Milestone s.r.l. was capable of creating a motorcycle racing simulator, which was surprisingly gentle on the eyes compared to its challenging learning curve. Riding a bike in the game was an enjoyable experience, particularly when the stunning graphics and realistic weather conditions were factored in.

Experiencing the game in first-person perspective during a rainy ride captivated us, making us pause to appreciate the scenery, even though speed was our primary goal. Raindrops striking our helmets blurred our vision slightly, yet the track sparkled with real-life-like reflections as if it were an actual wet road. Every time we jump on a fast bike and navigate its accurately designed tracks, it continues to enchant us.

#7. Enter the Sandman in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

In the initial stages of Peter Parker and Miles Morales’ latest escapade, it was nothing short of breathtaking to witness Insomniac Games’ enhanced version of New York City, as if guiding not just one, but two Spider-Men wasn’t already impressive enough.

Engaging with Sandman required Spider-Men to ensure each jump and swing was precise, and the game didn’t shy away from demonstrating its top-notch particle physics and ray-traced reflections at every opportunity. It seemed almost unrealistic, leaving us awestruck at how far advanced gaming systems could elevate visual appeal and graphical accuracy in today’s video games.

The bike chase was just as exciting as the one seen in Uncharted 4, and possibly even more so because we had the power to control real superheroes in a game that instantly made us feel like we were among them, starting from the very beginning.

#6. Aiming For the Sky In Microsoft’s Flight Simulator 2024

Certainly, let me rephrase that for you: The list wouldn’t be fully comprehensive without Microsoft Flight Simulator 24, which showcases remarkable graphics and a host of technical marvels. This simulation delights experts while leaving novices in awe due to its high level of detail and authentic flight experience.

Microsoft’s considerable efforts to ensure authenticity were undeniably successful, providing an intricate level of detail that kept us captivated, making us want to linger in the skies as long as possible, appreciating the world beneath from a perspective no other flight simulation has been able to recreate since its debut.

If you’re someone aiming to display your cutting-edge gaming system at its best, this game undoubtedly has the visual appeal to make it shine.

#5. Akira Kurosawa’s Magic in Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

Regardless of Ghost of Tsushima initially being released on older gaming hardware, Sucker Punch’s depiction of Tsushima Island presented a striking contrast between the somber, desperate story of Jin Sakai and a breathtaking world that made every drop of blood spilled by the noble samurai worthwhile. It might have even justified his slow shift away from honor and tradition as he employed strategies that ultimately weakened the Mongol army.

With great excitement, we plunged once more into Tsushima upon the Director’s Cut launch, and sprinting across a meadow, as we recall with fondness Nobu, was even more awe-inspiring due to the PS5’s seamless frame rate and knack for upgrading previous-generation games.

In our opinion, “Ghost of Tsushima” remains one of the most captivating artistic styles we’ve encountered, offering an immersive visual experience for those embarking on Jin’s journey for the first time or revisiting it to engage once more with Kotun Khan’s troops.

#4. The Crushing Darkness of Hellblade: Senua’s Saga’s Opening

Ninja Theory’s sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice surpassed its initial offering in both graphical realism and ambition, delving deeper into portraying Senua’s deteriorating mental condition and her unyielding pursuit of justice against those Northmen who harmed her.

Instead of generating excitement and awe as every other entry on the list did, this one presented a chilling opening sequence with deep blacks and stunning moonlit reflections. The combination of the sea and night created such an oppressive atmosphere that it sent shivers down our spines even though we were comfortably seated in our warmest chairs.

In the initial scenes of the game, Senua battled against the fierce ocean currents that destroyed her vessels and her desperate journey towards safety amidst the opening credits demonstrated the potential of next-generation hardware for delivering lifelike visuals in contemporary gaming. The game’s exceptional sound design and profound storyline complemented its visually stunning elements to create an immersive experience that we would not hesitate to revisit, even with the lingering shivers.

#3. Death Stranding 2’s Introduction to Sam and Lou

It was widely anticipated that Hideo Kojima’s latest work would be included on this list, but the way it managed to secure its spot left us in awe. After a concise summary of the first game’s events predominantly presented in shades of gray, the stunning landscapes powered by the Decima Engine truly showcased Kojima’s filmmaking abilities, resulting in an opening sequence that transported us back to Sam and Lou as they found respite on a mountain peak.

Mastering Sam’s journey through the perilous landscape en route to his secret sanctuary was nothing less than astonishing, instantly highlighting the vastness and complexity of “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach”. This early scene also provided Kojima with an opportunity to introduce aerial cameras and an incredibly intricate level of detail within the world he meticulously crafted for gamers.

Each viewing, it remains a joyful opening sequence that never fails to bring a smile – not just because of its nostalgic charm, but also due to its stunning beauty and grandeur.

#2. The Dimensional Rifts in Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart

As a passionate fan, I find myself embarking on an unforgettable voyage through the space-time continuum, all thanks to the dastardly schemes of Dr. Nefarious and his tampering with the Dimensionator. This thrilling adventure in Insomniac’s colorful universe further cements its spot among my favorites due to their captivating exploration of Dimensional Rifts.

As a devoted admirer, I’m left speechless by the vibrant realms within realms that burst with striking colors, captivating me in ways only imaginable in this extraordinary game. The intricate puzzles, innovative and thought-provoking, serve as the perfect foundation for the visual spectacle, creating a seamless gameplay experience that truly showcases what next-gen hardware can achieve with one of my beloved franchises.

Rift Apart” seamlessly combines witty humor, endearing charm, and stunning visuals, ensuring that every rift we navigated became an unforgettable adventure.

#1. The Matrix Awakens and Its “Unreal” Showcase

Epic Games demonstrated an incredibly realistic representation of The Matrix, using Unreal Engine 5 to showcase its potential when equipped with the right resources. The city setting and accurate reenactments of chase scenes left us questioning whether we were watching actual movie footage or a digitally crafted rendition of those moments instead.

In an exceptional manner, the demo seamlessly merged the boundaries between reality and video games, a feat that only the hypothetical sequel to Death Stranding, if successful, could replicate. This unique blend fills us with anticipation, as we believe that future generations of gaming hardware are just scratching the surface of their potential capabilities.

Wrapping up, these are the standout instances from modern times that left us awestruck by the capabilities of advanced technology. Here’s to countless more such instances and endless enjoyment as we share them with you!

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2025-07-22 14:43