The games below have had the biggest influence on how I think about gameplay, level design, worldbuilding, and player progression. Each one does something particularly well, whether that's movement, combat, atmosphere, storytelling, or creating memorable experiences that have inspired my own creative work.
Overwatch
Overwatch is one of my favourite hero shooters thanks to its unique character abilities and fast-paced movement. Heroes like Doomfist, Lucio, Tracer and Genji each completely change how the game is played, making every match feel different while rewarding mastery of movement and ability combinations.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 has some of the smoothest gunplay I've experienced. Every weapon feels satisfying to use, while the subclass system, abilities and highly customizable loadouts give players countless ways to approach combat.
Warframe
Warframe stands out for its incredibly fluid movement, fast melee combat and unique playable Warframes. Combining parkour, swordplay and powerful abilities creates an energetic gameplay style unlike almost anything else.
Ghostrunner
Ghostrunner perfectly captures a futuristic cyberpunk atmosphere while delivering incredibly fast first-person movement. Its visual style, soundtrack and precision gameplay create an experience with an unforgettable vibe.
Titanfall 2
Despite its relatively short campaign, Titanfall 2 delivers one of my favourite stories in a first-person shooter. The parkour movement is incredibly smooth, and combining wall-running with Titan combat keeps every level exciting.
Monster Hunter
Monster Hunter excels at making every weapon feel unique and impactful. Learning monster behaviours, mastering weapon mechanics and overcoming increasingly difficult hunts makes every victory feel rewarding.
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 features one of the most immersive futuristic worlds I've explored. Night City feels alive with its architecture, lighting, characters and atmosphere, making it one of my biggest inspirations for sci-fi worldbuilding.
Terraria
Terraria offers fantastic progression and engaging combat, especially through aerial movement and boss encounters. While the base game is excellent, mods like Calamity expand it into an even larger and more challenging experience.
Deadpool
Deadpool delivers exactly what it promises: over-the-top action, hilarious fourth-wall-breaking humour and surprisingly enjoyable combat abilities wrapped around a genuinely entertaining story.
Classic Favourites
LEGO Indiana Jones
One of my favourite LEGO games, combining classic LEGO humour with fun puzzles, memorable movie moments and enjoyable mechanics such as rope swinging, vehicle driving and cooperative gameplay.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
Melee remains one of my favourite fighting games thanks to its responsive controls, satisfying gameplay and the Adventure Mode, which made the roster feel like part of a larger world rather than simply a collection of fighters.
Skylanders Giants
Skylanders Giants introduced a creative toys-to-life concept alongside memorable creature designs and a fun fantasy story. Collecting characters and bringing them into the game made the experience feel unique and exciting.