Hey guys! Ready to dive into the best Steam games of 2022? We at OSC have compiled our ultimate list, and trust us, it’s packed with titles you won’t want to miss. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, immersive RPGs, or strategic simulations, we've got something for everyone. So, buckle up and let's explore the top Steam games that made 2022 an unforgettable year in gaming!

Why These Games? Our Selection Criteria

Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why we chose these particular games. Our selection criteria are pretty straightforward. First off, gameplay is king. We looked for games that offer innovative mechanics, engaging challenges, and that special something that keeps you hooked for hours. Is the game fun? Is it addictive? Does it offer a unique experience that you can't find anywhere else?

Next up, we considered the narrative depth and world-building. A great game isn't just about shooting or strategizing; it's about immersing yourself in a rich, believable world with characters you care about. Storytelling matters! We wanted games that offer complex characters, captivating plots, and lore that keeps you thinking even after you've turned off your computer. The more emotionally invested you are, the better.

Visual and audio design also played a significant role. Let’s face it; nobody wants to play a game that looks like it was made in the early 2000s (unless it's intentionally retro, of course!). We looked for games with stunning graphics, detailed environments, and soundtracks that enhance the overall experience. A visually stunning game can elevate the immersion and make your playtime all the more enjoyable.

Finally, we assessed the community impact and longevity of each game. Did the game create a buzz? Does it have a dedicated fanbase? Are people still playing it months or even years after its release? A strong community can keep a game alive and provide endless replayability through mods, updates, and player-created content. A game that continues to evolve and engage its community is always a winner in our book.

The Top Steam Games of 2022: Our OSC Picks

Alright, drumroll please! Here are our top picks for the best Steam games of 2022. Each of these games has something special to offer, and we highly recommend checking them out if you haven’t already.

1. Elden Ring: A Dark Fantasy Masterpiece

Elden Ring absolutely dominated the gaming scene in 2022, and for good reason. Developed by FromSoftware, the creators of the Dark Souls series, Elden Ring takes the challenging combat and intricate world design that fans love and transplants it into a vast, open-world setting. The result is a game that's both incredibly difficult and endlessly rewarding.

In Elden Ring, you play as the Tarnished, a character tasked with restoring the Elden Ring and becoming the Elden Lord. What sets this game apart is its unparalleled freedom. You can explore the Lands Between at your own pace, tackling dungeons, fighting bosses, and uncovering secrets as you see fit. There's no hand-holding here; the game expects you to learn from your mistakes and adapt to its challenges.

The combat in Elden Ring is brutal but fair. Every enemy, from the lowliest goblin to the mightiest dragon, poses a threat. Mastering the game's various weapons, spells, and combat techniques is crucial for survival. And with a deep character customization system, you can tailor your build to suit your playstyle. Whether you prefer to be a heavily armored knight, a nimble rogue, or a powerful mage, Elden Ring has something for you.

But Elden Ring isn't just about combat. It's also about exploration and discovery. The Lands Between are filled with hidden locations, secret quests, and fascinating characters. Every corner of the world feels handcrafted, and there's always something new to find. And with a cryptic but compelling storyline, Elden Ring keeps you guessing until the very end. If you're a fan of challenging action RPGs, Elden Ring is an absolute must-play.

2. Stray: A Purrfect Adventure

Switching gears completely, Stray offers a vastly different gaming experience. Developed by BlueTwelve Studio, Stray is a third-person adventure game where you play as a stray cat in a cyberpunk city. Yes, you read that right – you get to be a cat!

In Stray, you navigate the neon-lit alleys and decaying streets of a futuristic metropolis, solving puzzles, interacting with robots, and uncovering the mysteries of this strange new world. The game's unique perspective – seeing the world through the eyes of a cat – is both charming and inventive. You can meow, scratch furniture, and even take cat naps in cozy spots. It’s the little things that make Stray so special.

The gameplay in Stray is a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and stealth. You'll need to use your feline agility and cunning to overcome obstacles and evade enemies. And with a heartwarming story about friendship and resilience, Stray is a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing. If you're looking for a unique and emotionally engaging adventure, Stray is definitely worth checking out. Plus, who doesn't love cats?

3. God of War: A Norse Saga

While God of War originally launched on PlayStation in 2018, it made its way to Steam in 2022, bringing its epic Norse saga to a whole new audience. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, God of War is a reimagining of the classic franchise, casting Kratos, the god of war, as a father figure in a world inspired by Norse mythology.

In God of War, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a perilous journey to spread the ashes of Atreus's mother from the highest peak in the nine realms. Along the way, they'll encounter gods, monsters, and all sorts of mythical creatures. What sets God of War apart is its focus on character development and emotional storytelling. Kratos is no longer just a rage-filled killing machine; he's a complex character struggling to come to terms with his past and protect his son.

The combat in God of War is visceral and satisfying. Kratos wields the Leviathan Axe, a powerful weapon that can be thrown and recalled at will. Mastering the axe's various attacks and abilities is crucial for survival. And with a skill tree system, you can customize Kratos's abilities to suit your playstyle. Whether you prefer to be a defensive tank or an offensive powerhouse, God of War has something for you.

But God of War isn't just about combat. It's also about exploration and discovery. The world is filled with hidden locations, secret quests, and challenging puzzles. And with stunning graphics and a breathtaking soundtrack, God of War is a feast for the senses. If you're a fan of action-adventure games with strong storytelling, God of War is an absolute must-play.

4. Dying Light 2 Stay Human: Parkour and Zombies

Dying Light 2 Stay Human is the sequel to the popular zombie-parkour game, and it takes everything that made the first game great and amps it up to eleven. Developed by Techland, Dying Light 2 puts you in the shoes of Aiden Caldwell, a pilgrim searching for his sister in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by the undead.

In Dying Light 2, you'll need to use your parkour skills to navigate the sprawling city of Villedor, leaping across rooftops, sliding under obstacles, and outrunning hordes of zombies. The game's parkour system is fluid and intuitive, making it a joy to explore the environment. And with a day-night cycle that drastically changes the behavior of the zombies, you'll need to be strategic about when and where you travel.

The combat in Dying Light 2 is brutal and visceral. You'll need to scavenge for resources, craft weapons, and use your wits to survive. And with a branching storyline that's influenced by your choices, Dying Light 2 offers plenty of replayability. If you're a fan of zombie games with a unique twist, Dying Light 2 Stay Human is definitely worth checking out.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, no list is ever exhaustive, and there are plenty of other great games that came out in 2022. Here are a few honorable mentions that deserve your attention:

• Horizon Forbidden West: Another PlayStation exclusive that made its way to PC, Horizon Forbidden West is a stunning open-world adventure with a compelling storyline and breathtaking visuals.
• LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga: A delightful romp through all nine Star Wars films, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is perfect for fans of all ages.
• Total War: Warhammer III: A grand strategy game with epic battles and deep tactical gameplay, Total War: Warhammer III is a must-play for strategy enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – our top picks for the best Steam games of 2022! From epic fantasy adventures to charming feline escapades, 2022 had something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed our list, and we encourage you to check out these games if you haven't already. Happy gaming, guys!