The Video Games
Most improved – Life is Strange
The first episode’s clumsy storytelling and try-hard teen speak meant expectations for this interactive teen drama began low. But we found ourselves drawn deeper and deeper in with each passing episode, as lazy stereotypes began to blossom into well-rounded characters we cared about, and we discovered the lengths to which we could shape their fates with our social interactions. It’s flawed, yes, but it’s still one of the most fascinating series we’ve played in years.
Best Innovation – Halo 5: Guardians’ Warzone
The perfect counter-punch to Halo 5’s brilliant but regimented Arena mode. Leave all thoughts of preserving kill/death ratios at the door, spawn some ridiculous weapons and tanks, and wage brutal, silly, constantly-evolving warfare across three enormous battlefields. In bridging the gap between campaign and multiplayer, Warzone rolls up everything that is good about Halo into one explosive ten-minute package.
Best Newcomer – ScreamRide
Not a vintage year for new game series, it has to be said. Although it has to be said that even in a stronger year, a game that asks you to knock down buildings like dominoes by firing rollercoaster carriages packed full of screaming passengers would have to be considered a serious contender. And look, it was either this or bloody Evolve, okay?
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