The kind of game that virtually sells itself. Whether you’re scaling vast towers while avoiding a giant bird, or simply taking in the stunning surroundings, the results are frequently awe-inspiring. RimeĪlso from Tequila Works (whose reputation as one of the hottest new developers around must surely be confirmed), this is a captivating puzzle-based adventure with atmosphere, music and aesthetics to rival Journey. The story ultimately reveals hidden, surprising depths as well.

Tasked with preventing the deaths of various characters in a sprawling mansion, marked for murder by the house’s servants, it is original and darkly amusing, with tremendous music to boot. Tequila Works’ stylish puzzler came armed with an intriguing premise – and didn’t disappoint. Those band practice mini-games were a treat too. It is also very, very funny packed with witty, heartfelt dialogue and genuinely endearing characters who live long in the memory. A timely rumination on bored, alienated youth, Infinite Fall’s narrative gem nails the experience of going home to a small, suffocating hometown where the past is painful and the future seems uncertain.

Best games of 2017 first half