I Didn’t Expect Much From These 4 Games, But They Surprised Me and Were Incredible

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You often find the most enjoyable games in unexpected places. I’ve learned from years of playing that a lot of hype doesn’t guarantee a great game. Big-budget, highly anticipated games can be disappointing, while smaller, less-known projects can be surprisingly fantastic. Rarely does a game truly captivate me from start to finish and stay with me long after I’ve finished playing, but a few have managed to impress and move me in ways I didn’t expect.

I’m quick to form opinions about games – often within just a few minutes of seeing a trailer or gameplay. Sometimes, though, a game I initially dismissed turns out to be fantastic. In fact, four games recently proved me wrong and reminded me what I love about gaming, making me regret not playing them sooner.

4) Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

When *Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle* was first announced, I honestly thought it was a silly idea. The thought of Mario and the chaotic Rabbids teaming up seemed like a strange concept that somehow got the green light. I didn’t expect to enjoy it at all, but the more I saw of the game, the more curious I became, and I finally decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did!

Mario + Rabbids was a surprisingly brilliant tactical strategy game. It took the complex gameplay of XCOM and blended it with the playful world of Mario and the wacky humor of the Rabbids. The turn-based battles were both clever and rewarding, encouraging players to think strategically and position their characters carefully. But the biggest surprise was how genuinely funny the game was – something I didn’t expect, even after meeting Rabbid Peach!

I immediately loved the game and played it all the way through, excited for what came next. *Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle* showed me that you shouldn’t judge a game by its appearance. Despite its cartoonish style and unusual pairing of characters, it was a truly brilliant game on the Nintendo Switch. Learning about Davide Soliani’s dedication only made my appreciation for it grow.

3) Remnant II

I generally don’t enjoy shooter or soulslike games, so I wasn’t expecting much from Remnant II. I skipped the first game and almost did the same with the sequel. However, I decided to give it a try, and it completely changed my opinion of both genres. It’s even made me want to go back and play the original, though I haven’t had the chance yet.

I wasn’t very engaged by the overall story of *Remnant II*, but I was completely captivated by the individual stories within each world. They were clearly made with a lot of care and detail, and the plots, hidden secrets, and unique designs created an incredible atmosphere that’s rare in games. I got so lost in Losomn, trying to uncover everything, and even after finishing the game, I still want to play it again.

The story isn’t the only great thing about this game – the gameplay is fantastic too. I was immediately hooked by the fast-paced, challenging combat, which seamlessly combined shooting and close-quarters fighting. The enemy designs were also really impressive. I particularly enjoyed the puzzles, which revealed more about the game’s rich story and world-building. Discovering the history of each location really cemented *Remnant II* as one of my favorite games.

2) God of War

Everyone says the 2018 God of War is a PlayStation masterpiece, but I initially ignored it. I’d played the older games and wasn’t really interested in more of Kratos’ angry battles with gods, so I dismissed it. However, after getting a PlayStation 5, I decided to try it and see what all the fuss was about. I was completely blown away – it really resonated with me at the time I played it.

Playing God of War felt incredibly personal to me. I’d just become a dad myself, so watching Kratos learn to be a father to Atreus really hit home. I was totally invested in their story from the start, and it wasn’t just the big moments – it was all the little interactions that got to me. Santa Monica Studio did an amazing job making the game so emotionally powerful. Seeing that father-son relationship develop, with all the love and the struggles, felt incredibly real.

Beyond the compelling story, the game itself is excellent. Combat felt powerful and allowed for a lot of different approaches, and the puzzles were genuinely fun to solve. The game’s use of Norse mythology added a fascinating layer to the world, making exploration particularly engaging. Ultimately, *God of War* didn’t just impress me – it truly resonated with me emotionally.

1) Celeste

I first became interested in *Celeste* because it was a popular indie platformer. The unique pixel art really caught my eye, and I knew I wanted to try it. Having played *Towerfall* before, I thought it would be a fun, quick experience, but I didn’t expect it to be so impactful. I couldn’t have been more mistaken. By the time I finished *Celeste*, I was deeply moved, even tearful, as I watched Madeline overcome her inner struggles while climbing the mountain. Her emotional journey really resonated with me, reflecting my own doubts and insecurities.

I’ve struggled with depression for a long time, and this game really resonated with me. While my depression hasn’t completely disappeared – it still comes back occasionally – seeing Madeline’s inner struggles felt incredibly familiar. Playing *Celeste* wasn’t just about beating the game; it was about facing my own feelings. It sounds strange, but the game helps me break negative patterns, so I make a point of playing it every winter.

I loved this game, both for its story and how it made me feel. Beyond that, the gameplay itself was fantastic. The levels were well-designed and the challenges were difficult, but always felt achievable. It also looked and sounded incredible – the music fit the game perfectly. Finishing it felt like more than just beating a game; it was the satisfying end to a truly memorable experience that I’ll always cherish.

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2025-10-16 17:13