Downloadable games are the new frontier in our industry. The way was forged on the PC with direct downloads from independent developers and then to the masses via the Steam (and Games for Windows Live, to a lesser extent) distribution system.
Xbox Live Arcade and then the PlayStation Network Store pushed the system into our living rooms and the PSPGo made an early attempt to limit us to download-only gaming. The largest growth in this arena throughout 2010 has probably been the smartphone markets though.
The iPhone has forced itself into the considerations of most informed gaming commentators as a proper gaming platform and you would be foolish to discount the impact it is having on the industry and the landscape of modern gaming. Likewise, Android devices now pick up a significant market share and are starting to catch up with Apple’s dominance in the mobile gaming arena.
This Game of the Year category recognises the unique position that download-only games have in the marketplace and the growing reputation that they have with gamers of all backgrounds, tastes and platforms.
Reflecting the stellar growth of the distribution format, this category was incredibly varied and incredibly hard-fought but we did end up with one clear winner leading a very hotly-contested pack.
We present to you our Download Only Game of the Year, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light.
DJ Judas
Beat Hazard and Dead Nation get my vote for this year.
Loving and hating the Steam sale in equal measure at the moment though, so many games at ridiculously low prices, just waiting for Amnesia to come in at <£3.00.
djhsecondnature
Must admit I’m actually very surprised by this. Lara Croft was good but I’d personally put Super Meat Boy, Pac-Man CE DX, LIMBO, Joe Danger, Flight Control HD and Beat Hazard above it. Even more surprised at how low down Joe Danger is.
Darth Newdar
I downloaded Pac-Man Championship Edition DX yesterday, and it’s so much fun! I’m surprised it only got 6%.
cc_star
<3 Space Invaders Infinity Gene
ARUMIR
I quite liked Namco Museum but I wasn’t sure if I would buy the new Pac-Man, hope Galaga gets the same treatment soon!
Rocket_345
This is the year that i’ve really started purchasing downloadable titles. Between me and my brother (We shared a PS3) we own overall about 17 titles all of which have been bought this year. Add to that the Plus stuff and it makes about 35. There are also several store games i want to buy but haven’t due to being skint.
Charmed_Fanatic
Great winner :)