In the vast landscape of video games released annually, only a handful truly approaches the pinnacle of perfection.
Where some titles achieve exceptional refinement, others are hindered by minor yet significant flaws that prevent them from attaining complete greatness.
These imperfections do not overshadow their status as outstanding selections within their respective genres; however, they can negatively impact aspects such as storytelling, pacing, and gameplay.
In light of these observations, I have compiled a list detailing ten minor issues that diminish an otherwise near-perfect gaming experience.
10 Ring of Fire
Repetitive Content
Throughout my adventure in Elden Ring, it was clear that I was engaging with a revolutionary title.FromSoftware succeeded in fine-tuning their long-established format, resulting in a game that sets a new standard both within and outside its genre.
Nonetheless, as the expansive world unfolded, the creators fell into the trap of reusing content too frequently, introducing numerous dungeons and exploration points that obscured the main journey.
An ideal version of Elden Ring might benefit from a reduction in playtime and a decrease in repetitiveness. While it remains an iconic game, that issue prevents it from achieving absolute perfection.
9 Blue Prince
Randomness Dependency
Experiencing Blue Prince evoked memories of the profound impact of games like Portal and Outer Wilds, all contained within a single experience.
The innovative blend of roguelike mechanics with puzzle-solving offers one of the most outstanding gaming experiences of recent years, showcasing impressive depth and complexity.
Shifting the map rather than switching characters keeps the gameplay fresh, as players reshape environments through imaginative scenarios until reaching Room 46.
However, the game suffers from a tipping point where the reliance on chance to uncover combinations for challenges detracts from the overall enjoyment.
Had it not been for the frequent need to restart runs due to randomness, Blue Prince could have been heralded as a flawless title.
8 SOMA
Limited Interactivity
SOMA stands as a remarkable psychological thriller, masterfully enveloping players in its atmospheric tension and intricate narrative.
However, navigating through the game can become bewildering due to confusing interaction mechanics, as the simplistic inputs can disrupt the flow.
Moments of suspense become strained when players struggle to remember which button to press while evading unfathomable horrors, highlighting a crucial drawback in the game’s design.
7 Darksiders 2
Repetitive Mission Structure
One of the key frustrations I have encountered in video games is feeling reduced to a mere delivery service, a sentiment that often arises in Darksiders 2.
This title excels at merging genres while presenting a captivating story and characters within a stunning world; yet, the repetitive nature of its objectives can be frustrating.
Whether it involves collecting scattered artifacts, seeking keys to unlock doors, or defeating a series of mini-bosses, I found myself engaging in the same tasks too often, detracting from overall enjoyment.
Although it remains one of the all-time great hack-and-slash titles and offers brilliant combat and an exceptional soundtrack, the repetitive mission structure is a notable flaw.
6 Nine Sols
Notable Difficulty Spikes
Nine Sols has swiftly become one of the standout indie titles, exceptionally blending the gameplay styles of Hollow Knight and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
Remarkably crafted combat, character development, level design, and narrative elements all shine, yet the game grapples with design inconsistencies rooted in relative inexperience with the Metroidvania genre.
While the overall challenge is well-tuned for the majority of the game, there are difficult spikes that can discourage players and detract from an otherwise cohesive experience.
These challenges, while exhilarating once overcome, present a significant barrier to a smooth progression throughout the game.
5 Cyberpunk 2077
Abrupt Prologue
Despite its rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into one of my favored open-world experiences, largely attributed to its captivating universe.
However, the prologue proved to be somewhat jarring; the rapid progression of certain events and the pacing left little room for player immersion.
While the narrative aims to build a rich picture of life in Night City, its hurried execution often leads to missed emotional connections with players early on.
Subsequent gameplay reveals stronger narrative pacing, yet the chaotic prologue serves as a barrier that may deter players from continuing.
4 DOOM Eternal
Disruptive HUB Mechanics
What captivates me about DOOM Eternal is its undeniably thrilling gameplay, where the exhilarating combat can keep you engaged for hours.
Each level delivers an electric rush, thanks to finely-tuned shooting mechanics and melee tactics that motivate players to fully utilize their arsenal.
Nonetheless, the transitions between high-tempo gameplay and slower HUB moments can disrupt the immersion, lessening the velocity and intensity of the overall gaming experience.
3 The Last of Us Part 2
Pacing of the Story
The Last of Us Part 2 excels in nearly every aspect, showcasing exceptional character performances, a profound exploration of grief, engaging gameplay, and meticulous attention to detail.
However, after multiple playthroughs, I find that the pacing of the story significantly hampers engagement, causing players to lose track of their objectives.
The array of flashbacks and character shifts, combined with an extended campaign duration, dilute the emotional gravity of key events.The story’s impact is weakened as a result.
Despite its many achievements, The Last of Us Part 2 lacks the narrative cohesion that characterized its predecessor, which may have elevated its polish to an even greater level.
2 God of War Ragnarok
Insufficient Final Act
God of War: Ragnarök undoubtedly ranks among the best in its franchise, largely improving upon its bold predecessor.
However, its final act undermines the narrative momentum built throughout the adventure.
The game’s immersion emphasizes the looming threat of Ragnarök, yet the resolution occurs abruptly, with much of the spectacle relegated to the background, rendering it less impactful.
Having invested so much time into building anticipation for this cataclysmic event, the swift resolution feels unsatisfactory, leaving players craving a more robust conclusion.
While Valhalla provides Kratos with a fitting closure, God of War: Ragnarök may be remembered as a title that excelled in crafting its plot but faltered in its execution.
1 Bloodborne
Limited Healing Mechanics
Bloodborne is a game I cherish for its unique approach, pushing players to navigate its challenges without guiding hands, along with its array of inventive mechanics.
From the atmosphere to the combat and iconic bosses, everything in Bloodborne possesses distinctive charm, solidifying its status as one of the most exceptional titles ever made.
However, encountering blood vials—which are limited and require frequent farming—can diminish some of its magic, as players may hesitate to take risks in combat to avoid depleting resources.
In time, managing these mechanics becomes less burdensome, especially as player skill progresses. Yet, this system contributes little to meaningful gameplay.
While it doesn’t overshadow the experience entirely, Bloodborne’s healing mechanics are arguably its weakest aspect developed by FromSoftware.
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