Relive the Classics: A Look Back at the Best Games Released in 2017

Wow, 2017 was a big year for video games, wasn’t it? It feels like just yesterday we were all diving into these amazing new worlds and challenging ourselves with some seriously fun gameplay. Looking back, it’s pretty wild to see how many fantastic games came out that year. Whether you were a Nintendo fan, a PlayStation loyalist, or just looking for something new, there was definitely something for everyone. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best games released in 2017.

Key Takeaways

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefined open-world adventure with its vast exploration and emergent gameplay.
• Super Mario Odyssey offered pure joy and creative platforming, encouraging players to explore every corner.
• Splatoon 2 built upon its predecessor, delivering a polished and incredibly fun team-based shooter experience.
• Cuphead challenged players with its tough-as-nails boss fights and stunning 1930s cartoon art style.
• Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy brought beloved classics back with a fresh coat of paint, delighting long-time fans.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

It’s hard to talk about 2017 without mentioning The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game didn’t just redefine what a Zelda title could be; it set a new standard for open-world games across the board. Nintendo took the familiar Zelda formula, which had been around for decades, and completely flipped it on its head. Instead of guiding players through a set path, Breath of the Wild dropped you into a vast, living Hyrule with almost no restrictions.

The sheer freedom offered in Breath of the Wild is its most defining characteristic. From the moment you step out onto the Great Plateau, the entire world is yours to explore. Want to climb that massive mountain? Go for it. Fancy heading straight for Calamity Ganon, even with just a few hearts? The game lets you. This player agency is what makes the experience so personal and engaging. You’re not just playing a game; you’re embarking on your own unique adventure.

The world itself is a character. Every rock, tree, and enemy follows a set of physical rules that make interactions feel natural and often surprising. Weapons break, which initially might seem frustrating, but it encourages constant adaptation and experimentation with the tools you find. Enemies are more aggressive and dynamic, requiring you to think on your feet. The landscape is immense, filled with hidden shrines, challenging puzzles, and secrets tucked away in every corner, from lush forests to arid deserts.

While the sheer scale can sometimes lead to long stretches of travel or a feeling of being a bit lost, these moments are overshadowed by the constant sense of discovery. The game trusts you to figure things out, to learn its systems, and to forge your own path. It’s a bold design choice that pays off handsomely, rewarding curiosity and persistence.

Here’s a look at some key elements that make Breath of the Wild so special:

• Physics and Chemistry Engine: Interactions with the environment are dynamic. Fire spreads, electricity conducts, and wind affects movement, leading to emergent gameplay moments.
• Exploration and Discovery: The open world is designed to be explored at your own pace, with a focus on player-driven goals and emergent storytelling.
• Survival Mechanics: Managing resources, cooking food for buffs, and adapting to different climates are part of the challenge.
• Shrines: Over 100 mini-dungeons offer bite-sized puzzles and combat challenges, rewarding players with Spirit Orbs to increase health or stamina.

Breath of the Wild isn’t just a game; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve put the controller down. It’s a masterclass in game design and a true highlight of 2017.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey arrived on the Nintendo Switch in 2017, marking a significant evolution for the beloved 3D Mario series. Instead of the more linear paths seen in games like Super Mario Galaxy, Odyssey embraced the open-ended exploration reminiscent of Super Mario 64. This return to a collectathon style, where players are encouraged to find numerous hidden items, felt fresh and exciting.

The game’s structure is built around distinct "kingdoms," each offering a unique environment and a wealth of secrets to uncover. From bustling cityscapes to sandy deserts, every location is packed with challenges, puzzles, and surprises. The sheer density of things to do ensures that players are rarely left wanting for objectives, making exploration a constant source of enjoyment.

One of the most talked-about additions was Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat. This mechanic allows Mario to throw Cappy to capture and control various enemies and objects, opening up a vast array of new gameplay possibilities. This ability to inhabit different forms, from a T-Rex to a Chain Chomp, added a layer of creative freedom rarely seen in the franchise.

Super Mario Odyssey masterfully blends nostalgia with innovation. It celebrates the series’ history while introducing mechanics that feel entirely new, creating an experience that is both familiar and groundbreaking. The game’s design encourages curiosity and rewards players for engaging with its vibrant worlds.

Here’s a look at some of the key elements that made Super Mario Odyssey stand out:

• Cappy Mechanic: The ability to capture enemies and objects provided endless variety in movement and puzzle-solving.
• Diverse Kingdoms: Each world offered a distinct theme, art style, and set of challenges, keeping the gameplay engaging.
• Power Moon Collection: Hundreds of Power Moons were scattered throughout the kingdoms, offering short, satisfying objectives that fueled exploration.
• Nostalgic Touches: The game included numerous nods to past Mario titles, appealing to long-time fans without alienating newcomers.

Super Mario Odyssey is a testament to Nintendo’s ability to reinvent its most iconic characters and franchises. It’s a game that feels both grand in scope and meticulously crafted, offering a joyful and memorable adventure for players of all skill levels.

3. Splatoon 2

Splatoon 2 arrived on the Nintendo Switch in 2017, building upon the unique foundation laid by its predecessor. This title took the ink-based shooter concept and refined it, offering a vibrant and energetic experience that appealed to both newcomers and seasoned players. The core gameplay loop involves teams of squid-like characters, known as Inklings, battling to cover the most territory with their team’s colored ink.

The game truly shines with its diverse modes and constant stream of new content. Beyond the standard Turf War, players could engage in ranked battles like Splat Zones, Tower Control, and Rainmaker, each demanding different strategies and teamwork. The single-player campaign, while perhaps not the main draw for everyone, provided a fun, albeit sometimes challenging, series of levels that introduced players to the game’s mechanics and lore. Furthermore, Splatoon 2 consistently received updates, including new weapons, gear, and the highly anticipated "Splatfests" – limited-time in-game events where players chose a side in a themed debate and battled it out.

Here’s a look at some of the key modes:

• Turf War: The signature mode where two teams of four compete to ink the largest area of the map within a time limit.
• Ranked Battles: A series of competitive modes including Splat Zones (control specific zones), Tower Control (escort a tower to the enemy base), and Rainmaker (carry a powerful weapon to the enemy base).
• Salmon Run: A cooperative mode where up to four players work together to defeat waves of salmonid enemies and collect Golden Eggs.

Splatoon 2 managed to capture a unique niche in the shooter genre by focusing on territory control and a colorful, playful aesthetic rather than traditional combat. Its accessible controls made it easy to pick up, but mastering the ink mechanics and strategic map control offered a surprising amount of depth.

4. Cuphead

When Cuphead first arrived, it felt like a game pulled straight from a bygone era, not just in its challenging gameplay but in its entire aesthetic. Developed by Studio MDHR, this run-and-gun action game is famous for its incredibly tough boss battles. You’ll spend a lot of time learning enemy patterns and trying to survive waves of attacks. It’s the kind of game that really tests your reflexes and patience.

But what truly sets Cuphead apart is its stunning presentation. The visuals are a direct homage to the golden age of American animation from the 1930s. Every character, enemy, and background is hand-drawn with incredible detail, bringing to life a style rarely seen in modern gaming. The jazz-infused soundtrack is equally impressive, perfectly matching the game’s vintage vibe and adding another layer to the immersive experience.

While the difficulty can be a barrier for some, the satisfaction of finally overcoming a tough boss is immense. It’s a game that rewards perseverance and skill. For those who appreciate a significant challenge paired with unique artistic vision, Cuphead is an unforgettable experience.

Here’s a quick look at what makes Cuphead stand out:

• Art Style: Authentic 1930s cartoon animation.
• Gameplay: Intense boss rush with run-and-gun levels.
• Soundtrack: Lively jazz music that complements the visuals.
• Challenge: Known for its high difficulty, offering a rewarding experience for dedicated players.

Cuphead is a testament to the idea that unique artistic direction and demanding gameplay can create something truly special. It’s a game that doesn’t compromise, offering a pure, albeit difficult, experience that sticks with you long after you’ve put down the controller.

5. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy

Remember Crash Bandicoot? That spunky marsupial who was basically PlayStation’s answer to Mario back in the day? Well, in 2017, he made a triumphant return with the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. This wasn’t just a simple port; it was a full-blown remake of the first three PlayStation classics: Crash Bandicoot, Cortex Strikes Back, and Warped.

Developed by Vicarious Visions, the trilogy gave these beloved games a much-needed modern makeover. The graphics were completely redone, looking sharp and vibrant on the PlayStation 4. The sound design got a similar treatment, bringing the familiar wackiness to life with updated effects and music. But the real magic was in how they kept the core gameplay intact. The tight platforming, the challenging obstacle courses, and Crash’s signature spin attack all felt just as good, if not better, than players remembered.

This collection was a masterclass in how to handle remakes. It respected the original games while making them accessible and enjoyable for a new generation of players. Plus, for those who grew up with Crash, it was a powerful dose of nostalgia.

Here’s a quick look at what the trilogy offered:

• Three Classic Games: All the levels and bosses from the original PS1 titles.
• Modern Graphics: A complete visual overhaul with high-definition visuals.
• Updated Audio: Remastered sound effects and music.
• New Content: An additional bonus level, "Future Tense," was added, offering a fresh challenge.
• Trophy Support: Added a modern feature for players to chase achievements.

The N. Sane Trilogy proved that classic gameplay, when presented with care and attention to detail, can still capture hearts decades later. It was a reminder of a simpler time in gaming, but with all the polish a modern console could provide.

6. Gravity Rush 2

Released in early 2017, Gravity Rush 2 continued the unique adventures of Kat, our gravity-shifting protagonist. This sequel built upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering a more expansive world and refined gameplay mechanics. Players once again found themselves in control of Kat’s ability to manipulate gravity, allowing for a distinct sense of freedom in movement and combat. The game introduced new gravity styles, such as the Jupiter and Lunar styles, which altered Kat’s weight and movement properties, adding a fresh layer of strategy to exploration and battles.

The narrative saw Kat and her companion Syd exploring new territories and uncovering secrets about Kat’s origins and the world around them. The story expanded the lore significantly, providing more depth to the characters and the universe they inhabit. Beyond the main quest, the game also featured a substantial amount of side content and a free DLC episode focusing on the character Raven, which was well-received for its engaging story and playable character.

Gravity Rush 2’s art style remained a strong point, with vibrant environments and character designs that brought the floating cities and diverse inhabitants to life. The controls, while initially taking some getting used to, offered a rewarding experience once mastered, enabling players to perform impressive aerial maneuvers and combat combos.

While the game was praised for its ambition and unique gameplay, its online features were eventually discontinued, which impacted the long-term community engagement for the title. Despite this, the single-player experience remains a memorable journey.

Key features that set Gravity Rush 2 apart include:

• Gravity Manipulation: The core mechanic allowing players to fly and alter their gravitational pull.
• Diverse Environments: A visually rich world with distinct regions to explore.
• Expanded Combat System: New gravity styles and combo possibilities for engaging battles.
• Compelling Narrative: A story that delves deeper into the characters and the game’s universe.

7. Pokemon Ultra Sun

Pokemon Ultra Sun, alongside its counterpart Ultra Moon, represents a significant refinement of the Pokemon experience on the Nintendo 3DS. These titles build upon the foundation laid by the original Sun and Moon, introducing a more robust narrative and expanding the world of Alola in meaningful ways. The story sees players embarking on a journey that feels both familiar and fresh, with the introduction of new characters and plot threads that add depth to the established lore. A key addition is the Ultra Warp Ride, a mechanic that allows players to travel through Ultra Wormholes to different dimensions, offering a unique way to explore and encounter various Pokemon.

The inclusion of new story elements and expanded gameplay mechanics makes these versions feel like the definitive Alola adventure. The post-game content is particularly noteworthy, providing a vast amount of activities and challenges for players to engage with long after the main story concludes. This includes the opportunity to catch a wide array of legendary Pokemon from previous generations, making it a treasure trove for long-time fans.

Key improvements and additions in Pokemon Ultra Sun include:

• An expanded storyline with new plot twists and characters.
• The Ultra Warp Ride feature for interdimensional travel and Pokemon encounters.
• A significantly larger post-game with numerous legendary Pokemon to capture.
• New Z-Moves for many Pokemon, adding strategic depth to battles.
• Additional Ultra Beasts to discover and battle.

While the core gameplay loop remains true to the Pokemon series, the Ultra versions manage to inject enough new content and polish to feel like a substantial upgrade. They serve as a fitting send-off for the Pokemon franchise on the 3DS, offering a rich and engaging experience for both newcomers and seasoned trainers alike.

8. Pokemon Ultra Moon

While Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are essentially two sides of the same coin, focusing on Ultra Moon specifically, this 2017 release for the Nintendo 3DS represented a significant step forward for the series on handhelds. Building upon the foundation of the previous year’s Sun and Moon, these titles introduced a more fleshed-out narrative and expanded gameplay mechanics that offered a richer experience for both newcomers and long-time fans.

The story sees a more prominent role for the mysterious Ultra Beasts and the legendary Necrozma, weaving a more complex plot that pulls players across different dimensions. This journey is made possible through the Ultra Warp Ride, a new way to travel that adds an exciting layer of exploration. The core Pokémon catching and battling remains familiar, but the additions make the Alola region feel more alive and full of secrets to uncover.

Key improvements and additions include:

• Expanded Post-Game Content: The endgame was significantly beefed up, allowing players to encounter and catch a vast array of legendary Pokémon from previous generations, providing hundreds of hours of additional gameplay.
• New Story Elements: The introduction of Ultra Wormholes and the expanded lore surrounding Necrozma added depth and intrigue to the overall narrative.
• Improved Gameplay Mechanics: Various quality-of-life updates and new battle features were implemented, making the turn-based combat more engaging.
• Ultra Beasts and Legendaries: Players have more opportunities to interact with and capture these powerful, dimension-hopping creatures.

Pokémon Ultra Moon stands as a fitting farewell to the Nintendo 3DS, offering a polished and content-rich adventure that refined the Pokémon formula. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise and a strong entry in the series’ history.

9. Hob

Hob is a quiet adventure that dropped in 2017, and it really stuck with me. It’s an isometric action game where you play as a little guy trying to fix a world that’s a mix of nature and old machines. The story isn’t told with words, which is pretty cool. Instead, you piece things together by looking at the environment and finding these old pictures that look like hieroglyphs.

The world itself is the main character here, a beautiful blend of overgrown plants and rusting metal. You’ll spend your time exploring, solving puzzles, and engaging in some satisfying combat. It’s not overly complicated, but it feels good to figure things out and make progress.

There were some technical hiccups when it first came out, like camera issues and performance stutters, but the core experience was strong enough to push through. The developers patched a lot of that up later, thankfully.

Hob offers a unique experience that relies on atmosphere and discovery. It’s a game that respects your intelligence, letting you uncover its secrets at your own pace without holding your hand too much. The lack of dialogue forces you to pay closer attention to the details, making the world feel more alive and mysterious.

Here’s a quick look at what Hob offers:

• Exploration: Traverse a world filled with secrets and hidden paths.
• Puzzles: Solve environmental puzzles that require observation and logic.
• Combat: Engage in straightforward hack-and-slash combat against mechanical foes.
• World Building: Discover the lore through visual storytelling and environmental clues.

10. Salt and Sanctuary

Released in 2017, Salt and Sanctuary is a 2D action RPG that really captured the attention of players looking for a challenge. It often gets compared to the Dark Souls series, and for good reason. The game takes the challenging combat, intricate level design, and dark fantasy atmosphere that fans love and translates it effectively into a side-scrolling perspective.

Players step into the role of a shipwrecked sailor who finds themselves on a mysterious, monster-infested island. The core gameplay loop involves exploring these dangerous environments, battling tough enemies, and collecting resources to upgrade your character. The combat is deliberate and requires careful timing of dodges, blocks, and attacks, making each victory feel earned.

One of the standout features of Salt and Sanctuary is its build variety. You can customize your character with a wide array of weapons, armor, and magic spells, allowing for many different playstyles. Whether you prefer a heavily armored knight, a nimble rogue, or a powerful mage, the game provides the tools to create your ideal warrior.

Here’s a look at some of the key elements:

• Challenging Combat: Enemies hit hard, and bosses are formidable. Learning attack patterns and mastering defensive maneuvers is key to survival.
• Deep Customization: A vast skill tree and a wide selection of gear allow for extensive character building.
• Atmospheric World: The hand-drawn art style and bleak environments create a compelling and immersive dark fantasy setting.
• Exploration: The interconnected world is filled with secrets, shortcuts, and hidden pathways, rewarding thorough exploration.

The game doesn’t hold your hand. Expect to die, learn from your mistakes, and push forward. This difficulty is part of what makes overcoming its challenges so satisfying.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

As we wrap up our look at the standout games of 2017, it’s clear that this was a year packed with memorable experiences. From groundbreaking new titles that pushed creative boundaries to beloved franchises making triumphant returns, the gaming landscape offered something for everyone. Whether you were exploring vast open worlds, mastering challenging combat, or getting lost in compelling stories, the games released in 2017 left a lasting impression. This collection of titles not only provided countless hours of entertainment but also showcased the incredible talent and innovation within the industry. As we move into the future, the legacy of these games continues to inspire and set a high bar for what’s to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was 2017 a good year for video games?

Yes, 2017 was an amazing year for video games! Many people consider it one of the best years ever, with lots of fantastic new games and even some great remakes of older favorites coming out. It was a big year for consoles like the Nintendo Switch too.

What made 2017 special for gaming?

What made 2017 stand out was the mix of incredible new games and some controversies in the gaming industry, like loot boxes. Plus, the Nintendo Switch console launched, which was a huge deal and brought Nintendo back into the spotlight.

Were there any remakes or remasters in 2017?

Absolutely! 2017 saw some classic games get a fresh coat of paint. The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is a prime example, bringing back beloved PS1 games with updated graphics and gameplay for a new audience.

Which games were considered the best of 2017?

Some of the most talked-about games from 2017 include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Splatoon 2, and Cuphead. These games were praised for their creativity, gameplay, and overall fun factor.

Did Nintendo have any big releases in 2017?

Yes, Nintendo had a massive year in 2017! They released the Nintendo Switch, which was a huge success. They also put out major games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey for the new console.

What kind of games came out in 2017?

2017 had a wide variety of games. You had huge open-world adventures like Zelda, fun platformers like Mario, unique shooters like Splatoon 2, challenging indie games like Cuphead, and updated versions of classic series like Crash Bandicoot.