Have done so already in:
- Red Dead Redemption. So much time just spent wandering peacefully, I feel heavyhearted when I load it up now. Nostalgic paralysis, and it came at a time that life seemed simpler.
- Dark Souls 1. The will to persevere, the necessity to explore cautiously and understand how to make each attack count. Pure brilliance.
- GTA IV. I was in college, mesmerized by the technical little details that were so stunning. I spent more time hurling Niko off ledges, and finding fun ways to drop from great heights safely. I've completed the game and the DLC three times properly, and still play it regularly. I've probably logged in the same amount of time in V, but it didn't capture me in ways that IV did, but it's still stunning (can not wait for the Remaster!).
- Mafia. The first thing I did when my good friend helped me build my PC was buy this game. It was the first title I wanted to return to, so many younger days cruising in Free Ride and enjoying the driving. Tommy's adventures all felt so unique, the mission design, the structure, the narrative. I kind of want to jump in right now!
- Hitman Blood Money. It was pure art. Every mission was so unique, and creeping about with different weapons captivated me. I just played through it again, I don't think I'll ever tire of it. I can't wait to play "You Better Watch Out..." during the holidays!
- Max Payne 2- Remedy's genius, a masterpiece in my eyes. God knows how many times I've played it to the end, how many lines I've memorized, how much love I have for the title.
- GTA Vice City. Every summer, I go back to play it from the start. It's more a summer tradition than anything else, and I've replayed it endlessly. I think for me, it'll always be my favorite GTA game.
- Dragon Age: Origins. Goodness, it came out at a time that I felt like I wasn't ready for a tactical party combat RPG. I turned down the difficulty (still had some problems with the controls) and got lost in two playthroughs. Blown away.
- NBA Street Vol. 2. This will forever be my favorite basketball game ever. Every court was infused with soul, every legend felt like a proper nod to a forgotten streetball era. We still fire it up and talk shit, and I still love it.
- Yakuza 2. Nagoshi the god, and a proper sequel. I was just fascinated with grinding repeated encounters, and enjoying the snow. I love the game with all my heart!
- WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain. It's almost embarrassing as to how much time I spent creating characters, and running through multiple seasons. PCSX2 and the glories of the best wrestling game (to me!) continue to thrive.
Will do so:
- The Witcher 3. Gearing up mentally for another romp with Geralt. Re-reading all the translated books/fanfiction, replaying bits of second game and just truly excited!!!
- GTA V Remaster. I may not even get to anything else during the holidays!