The term “backlog” didn’t enter the gaming vernacular until platforms like Steam and Humble Bundle revolutionized digital sales in the mid-2000s. Suddenly, gamers found themselves engulfed in a plethora of impulse buys, with discounts so significant they felt surreal. Yet, despite the hours we dedicated to gaming, our backlogs only continued to grow, a phenomenon that persists in today’s gaming landscape.
While I’m certainly not one to critique others for their incomplete games, it’s disheartening to note that fantastic titles often get overshadowed. It’s commonplace to acquire a sought-after game during a sale, only to have it slip further down the list as new releases crowd in. Based on user-generated statistics, many of these esteemed games remain untouched within libraries. If you can carve out some much-needed time from your gaming schedule, consider giving these underrated gems a chance.
This curated list of games draws from backlog statistics provided by HowLongToBeat. To add a unique twist, we will highlight only one representative title from each series.
10 Borderlands 2
Still the Best Entry
The Borderlands franchise is known for its divisive appeal. The first installment mirrored the gaming trends of its time, characterized by an overload of numerical indicators, superficial characters, and strong multiplayer elements. However, contrary to its predecessor, Borderlands 2 stands out as the pinnacle of the series. Widely regarded as the best installment, it strikes an ideal balance among gameplay, narrative, and distinct identity.
Much of this success can be attributed to the introduction of Handsome Jack, an unforgettable antagonist who added charisma—a notable absence in the original. My own reluctance towards the franchise dissipated after hands-on experience with Borderlands 2, which ultimately transformed my perspective.
9 The Witcher 3
Immersive Fantasy Awaits
Have you ever encountered a franchise you were unaware of, only to realize, once you dive in, that it’s a masterpiece? That’s precisely how I felt about The Witcher. Although it occasionally made appearances in my awareness, it wasn’t until The Witcher 3’s release that I fully grasped its monumental appeal.
This game is dense—immersive in a way that sucks you in completely. The story enriches itself, sufficient to engage newcomers regardless of prior knowledge of the games, books, or even the Netflix series. Although embarking on a massively intricate RPG can feel overwhelming, especially for those with extensive backlogs, delaying could mean missing out on an unforgettable adventure. And let’s face it: Geralt deserves better.
8 Batman: Arkham City
The Benchmark for Batman Games
Growing up, I had a lukewarm view of Batman, partly due to my disinterest in detective tales and the absence of superhuman abilities. This perception began to shift with Batman: Arkham Asylum, but it was Arkham City that truly captured my admiration. This sequel reinvented the formula, presenting a sprawling Gotham City for players to explore—a feature that cemented its status as a classic.
Despite its critical acclaim and enduring popularity, I’m puzzled as to why Batman: Arkham City lingers on many players’ backlogs. Perhaps it’s simply another victim of being purchased during a sale and then forgotten. Regardless, it remains an exceptional gaming experience worthy of your attention.
7 Fallout: New Vegas
Explore Before the Next Season Begins
If you’ve caught the live-action adaptation of Fallout, you’ll remember the season finale’s presentation of a desolate city in the desert. That city is undoubtedly New Vegas, making a playthrough of Fallout: New Vegas an opportune way to prepare for the show’s subsequent season. While Fallout 3 revitalized the series, it was New Vegas that perfected the formula.
This game offers a rich, engaging world—the Mojave Wasteland—filled with unforgettable characters and a gameplay system blending depth with accessibility. As anticipation builds for another season of Fallout, staying informed about the events of New Vegas will ensure you won’t be left out when the next chapter unfolds.
6 Half-Life 2
A Landmark in Gaming
Playing Half-Life 2 is often considered a rite of passage for any aspiring PC gamer. The game not only solidified Valve’s capabilities but also revolutionized physics integration in video games. Released in an era when such innovations were groundbreaking, it introduced players to a universe where physics-based interactions enhanced gameplay experience.
The Gravity Gun remains iconic, allowing players to engage creatively with the environment. Even years after its release, Half-Life 2 retains its status as not only a pioneering tech feat but also an engaging shooter filled with clever puzzles and humor.
5 Portal 2
A Pinnacle of Puzzle Gaming
The hype surrounding the release of Portal 2 was akin to a cultural phenomenon—a marketing extravaganza that involved alternate reality games and various interactive challenges. For those who experienced it, Portal 2 was the crowning achievement of PC gaming at the time.
Meeting and perhaps exceeding the expectations set by its predecessor, Portal 2 evolves the mechanics introduced in the original game while expanding its world in delightful ways, aided by stellar performances like that of J. K.Simmons as Cave Johnson. Priced low during sales, this masterpiece often finds its way into backlogs, but no price can diminish its significance in gaming history.
4 Psychonauts
Preserving the Uniqueness
Every gamer has a unique title that remains largely unrecognized by those around them. For me, that game is Psychonauts. This beloved platformer—a quirky blend of collect-a-thon mechanics and imaginative themes—has unfortunately remained obscure to many. Its gameplay and artistic style are unlike almost anything else out there.
Despite its age showing in some aspects, it is paramount to play Psychonauts before it becomes too difficult to access. Its quirky narrative and inventive gameplay truly deserve a wider audience, and playing it helps in preserving its legacy.
3 BioShock
Beyond Spoilers
When a game garners recognition, vital plot points can inadvertently be revealed through cultural discourse. Watching streams of BioShock often led to encounters where the twist was spoiled by chat commentary, much to my frustration. Nevertheless, dismissing BioShock simply because you already know its secrets is a missed opportunity.
In addition to its captivating narrative twist, BioShock features a compelling first-person shooting experience reminiscent of its predecessor, System Shock. Players can immerse themselves in the lore, engaging with the world and unearthing captivating stories layered within, making it a title worth experiencing for every gamer.
2 Undertale
Overexposure Doesn’t Diminish Quality
As a long-time fan of Undertale, I can empathize with those who have yet to play. The game has infiltrated popular culture to the extent that its plot and characters are widely recognized. However, it’s essential to remember that it achieved this acclaim for a valid reason: it’s an exceptional game.
Forget about the overwhelming fandom and criticism surrounding it; Undertale is a moving story filled with charming characters and innovative gameplay. If you can set aside preconceived notions, you may discover a memorable gaming experience that resonates more than you’d expect.
1 Hollow Knight
An Indie Gem
Much like Undertale, Hollow Knight boasts a remarkable success story etched in the annals of indie gaming. Even if you haven’t played it, its cultural impact is hard to ignore, often discussed in tandem with fans eagerly awaiting potential sequels.
The game’s strength lies in its seamless combination of the Metroidvania and Soulslike genres—offering engrossing gameplay and a rich narrative steeped in mystery. Hollow Knight invites players to explore and unravel the dark history of Hallownest while showcasing extensive free DLC expansions that enhance its value. There’s much to experience, ensuring this title remains relevant in today’s gaming sphere.
Leave a Reply