As 2022 draws to a close, one thing remains clear, and that is we are still feeling the effect of what CoVID had on the game industry. Not only were many expected 2022 games delayed into next year, but some of the best games we played this year were originally intended or announced for 2021. As such, it made 2022 one of the most eclectic years for gaming, exemplified by our top 10 games of 2022. 

As in previous years, we used math to determine our rankings. Games ranked number one on our individual (submitted by staff members) lists had a higher weight than the other spots, and due to the varied nature of the back half of our lists, we gave spots to games that we reviewed on the site and then ranked them based on score and list position. 

Without further ado, here are MP1st’s Top 10 Games of 2022 leading up to our Game of the Year.

10. Thymesia

Developed by OverBorder Studio
Published by Team17 Digital Limited

“All in all, Thymesia does a good job scratching that Soulslike itch but providing rewarding, robust combat and memorable boss fights. While it doesn’t nail everything, what it does right elevates it toward the top of the subgenre. And considering the game was made by a team of seven people, that is no small feat. I would love to see what Overborder can do with a larger support team and a bigger budget. Thymesia is the real deal.” – Sean (from his review)

9. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (campaign)

Developed by Infinity Ward
Published by Activision

“Modern Warfare 2019 left big shoes to fill, and Infinity Ward had a lot to live up to, but Modern Warfare 2 makes it clear as day that they are the very best studio making Call of Duty campaigns. All hail the king.” – Sean (from his review of the campaign)

8. Sifu

Developed and published by Sloclap

“A new and refreshing spin on the rogue-lite genre that has possibly the best combat I’ve ever seen in a brawler.” – James

7. Weird West

Developed by WolfEye Studios
Published by Devolver Digital

“I love the romanticized version of the Wild West. This game’s presentation of that setting with its mix of gothic horror and dark fairy tale was truly something special to be admired. Everything from the UI to the way the areas are portrayed as pop up maps make for a memorable experience and I am so excited for what this new studio does next.” – Tim

6. Gran Turismo 7

Developed by Polyphony Digital
Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment

“Gran Turismo 7 represents a true return to form for Polyphony Digital. Despite being the seventh mainline iteration, the team is still able to keep the series feeling fresh with its new coat of paint and innovative technology with its new weather system… For Gran Turismo players out there thinking this might be a half step measure, it’s not; it’s a full blown experience and so much more. It’s an essential must-play for any fan out there and it just might be my favorite Gran Turismo thus far.” – James (from his review)

5. Stray

Developed by BlueTwelve Studio
Published by Anapurna Interactive

“Stray is the type of game you didn’t know you needed but are extremely happy it does. It was an amazing experience exploring the ruins of a dead world as a feline, getting into all kinds of kitty trouble. Stray was the most unique game I played this year.” – Avery

“Stray knows exactly what it wants to be and delivers on that premise flawlessly. Despite the game’s short duration, it leaves a strong impact, and it doesn’t overstay its welcome. Although the gameplay is simple, it’s made up for by the game’s stunning world, charming story, beautiful soundscape, and immersive atmosphere.” – AJ O (from his review)

4. Cult of the Lamb

Developed by Massive Monster
Published by Devolver Digital

“Cult of the Lamb is a brilliant fusion of Binding of Isaac and Animal Crossing, with an evil twist, and a charming artstyle. The combat is tight, although somewhat limited, and the rewarding base building system is a joy to play with. While it may not top many Game of the Year lists, the 10-15 hour journey is still absolutely worth experiencing, especially considering the low price. It also features unique visuals and an excellent soundtrack which makes it that much more fun to play. Simply put – don’t miss out on this one.” – AJ O (from his review)

“A sleeper hit that no one should skip out on. ” – James

3. Evil West

Developed by Flying Wild Hog
Published by Focus Entertainment

“Evil West is the first game in years I immediately restarted with the New Game +. I just wanted more. The combat felt like the explosive update to the brawler genre I’ve been wanting to find and I can’t wait for a sequel.” – Tim (read his review)

2. God of War: Ragnarok

Developed by Santa Monica Studio
Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment

“Santa Monica’s revival of the God of War franchise was met with tremendous praise, as Kratos and his son Atreus battled against Norse gods. God of War: Ragnarok continues their epic tale with plenty of more intense battles and amazing gameplay. Although Ragnarok didn’t overcome Elden Ring for Game of the Year, it was easily the best exclusive game of 2022.” – Avery

“If you need an example of how to make a sequel, look no further than Ragnarok. It excels not only at being a better game but also alleviates the first game to new heights with its brilliant storytelling that follows up on old threads in the most satisfying of ways.” – James (read his review)

“When I first saw the trailer for this game I thought it looked like glorified DLC. Having platinumed the game, I can safely say I was very, very wrong. Not only is Ragnarok not a DLC to God of War 2018, it’s almost too much game. As a result I feel there are some pacing issues in the middle section, but even with that complaint, had this been any other year this would have easily been my personal Game of the Year. Everything about its production is the pinnacle of console gaming” – Sean

1. ELDEN RING

Developed by FromSoftware
Published by BandaiNamco

“Not a single day has gone by where I’m not thinking about Elden Ring. This game is perfect on all levels of gaming. Great, fun, and addictive combat with a world filled to the brim with lore and exploration. It has set a new golden standard for open-world games and undoubtedly will influence the future of gaming for decades to come.” – James

“Many speculated whether the race for Game of the Year was over with the launch of Elden Ring in February. The latest masterpiece from Hidetaka Miyazaki presented gamers with unparallel freedom and emphasized curiosity and exploration. I’m the last person to offer any advice on succeeding at FromSoftware games (I’ve only defeated a few bosses before suspending my Elden Ring run), but that doesn’t mean I can’t admire and appreciate greatness when I see it. The discussion on which game was best in 2022 was put to rest with Elden Ring.” – Avery

“Like Babe Ruth I called my shot. I called it back in February that Elden Ring would be Game of the Year. Not just for myself but industry-wide. FromSoftware took their already successful Souls formula of tough but engaging combat and impeccable level designand put it in an open world and treated it the exact same: trusting the player to figure it all out. Adding in a ton of new, game changing features, it was clear that Elden Ring was Hidetaka Miyazaki and FromSoftware’s magnum opus. Not even sure how they are ever going to top it but I can’t wait to see them try.” – Sean (read his review)

As you can see, it was a pretty eclectic year for games in 2022! Do you agree with our ranking? Let us know in the comments what your top 10 games of 2022 are. Until then! See you next year!