Best Games of 2001

A worthy combatant against 1998 for one of the best years in early video game history.

GTA 3 redefined the "blockbuster" video game and the mix of sandbox and story seemed alter the landscape of heavy-combat action adventure games like Zelda and Diablo, while destroying the idea of tying story to levels like what was common in shooters and action RPGs like Parasite Eve, Resident Evil, Max Payne, and System Shock. Story could occur in a wide-open world and the use of a mission structure transformed what was possible in the genre.

Civilization 3 was the first true modern Civ game, with all of its addictive qualities. Halo redefined the modern console shooter, FFX brought voice acting to JRPG's, and SSX Tricky and NBA Street showed how style could mix music, culture, and sports into a unique product that countered simulation-style sports.

All of this while MGS2 and Gran Turismo 3 pushed graphics to its apex for its time, Tony Hawk 3 brought the trilogy to the top of its moment, and Smash Bros. Melee created a sub-culture that would take still another 5+ years to turn competitive.