2021 Unleashed: The Ultimate Game Picks

2021: A Year of Chaos, but Video Games Still Deliver

We’ve all felt the roller‑coaster of 2021 – from the pandemic ups and downs to the endless streaming parties. Yet there’s one thing that kept our thumbs glued to the screen, no matter what: fresh games throwing fun at us.

Phase 2 & the “Play‑During‑WFH” Trend

When it came to easing out of lockdown, we still found time to game. If you ever wanted to peek at your board‑room colleague’s progress gizmos and secretly cue a stealth screen‑pop while they work, remember this line: “psst… secretly play while WFH.” Trust me, it’s a legit way to keep morale high.

Our Hand‑Picked 2021 Stars

• Elden Ring – The open‑world action‑RPG that made everyone chase high‑level gear. It’s basically a “glory hunt” that stole our hearts.
• Hades – A rogue‑like dungeon crawler that blends humor with mythic battle clay. Easy to pick up, hard to stop.
• The Last of Us Part II – The emotional, gritty sci‑fi saga that still kept us on the edge of our seats.
• Spider‑Man: Miles Morales – Swing through NYC like a teenage hero (and snack on pizza while you’re at it).
• Resident Evil 4 Remake – Classic horror reimagined with crisp, new graphics. Skinny‑tuck the scares!

There you have it: 2021’s best – a handful of titles that kept us busy, entertained, and most importantly, nostalgic.

Gloom and Doom

Ready for a Game That Knows Your Thoughts?

Release Date: January 17, 2021

Ever had a flash of pride and thought, “I built a video game from scratch all by myself”? Singaporean developer Drew Pan is living that dream. His visual‑novel masterpiece dropped in 2021 and, thanks to its interactive storytelling, it’s a total must‑play for anyone who loves letting choices steer the narrative.

Remarkably, this gem sneaked straight into our Top 4 2021 PC Picks list—because the game got its debut right over the holiday season, it’s practically a fresh‑out‑of‑the‑box treasure.

Why Drew’s Game Stands Out

• Pure Indie Power: Built entirely by a one‑person team.
• Choice‑Heavy Gameplay: Every decision feels like a real-life domino effect.
• Accolades: SEA Game Awards 2021 finalist—coincidence? Nope, destiny.

Huge shout‑out to Drew for proving that determination + creativity can make a game that’s both emotionally resonant and wildly engaging.

More Little Red Dot Legends

Want to keep the momentum? Check out these other standout games crafted in Singapore’s own gaming hub:

• Game A: Innovative mechanics + heart‑warming story.
• Game B: A visual adventure that dazzles with light and color.
• Game C: Think strategy, but with an off‑beat twist.

So grab a controller, dive into Drew’s choices, and savor the local brilliance that Singapore keeps delivering.

Monster Hunter Rise

Nintendo Switch & PC: Dragon‑Hunting Delight

Release Date

March 26, 2021

Why You’ll Want to Jump In

• There are hunters who’ve spent over 500 hours—and some even > 1000—fearlessly battling dragons and gigantic monstrosities together.
• The game keeps pumping out fresh updates, plus a massive expansion that brings in even more fantastical creatures and opens up a brand‑new storyline.
• If you can rally a “kaki” squad, this is a must‑play for team fun.
• No Nintendo Switch? Don’t sweat it—PC is set to arrive in stunning 4K next month, serving up a visual feast for all the fire‑breathers.

Fun Fact

Talk about timing—there was another incredible game that dropped in the same month (and even the same day) as this one… an extra dose of excitement for gamers everywhere!

It Takes Two

It Takes Two: The 2021 Couples‑Game Hit

Released: March 26, 2021 | Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One S/X

Why Every Couple Should Try It

• Two‑player chaos that feels like a love‑language lesson—unexpected high‑fives, subtle arguments, and plenty of shared laughs.
• If you’ve got a partner who’s not so into gaming, It Takes Two is the perfect excuse to pull them in without calling it a “nerd thing.”
• Watch Twitch streams of real couples battling obstacles together: wholesome fun guaranteed.
• Feel the joy of solving puzzles together—feels less like gaming, more like a mini‑relationship therapy session.

Quick Tips for Couples

1. Start with the beginner missions—just easy peasy so you all feel the groove.
2. Keep the mic open: the more you communicate, the faster you get through the bad moments.
3. Celebrate small victories; shaking the world might leave them glowing.

If you want to brag about your new gamer‑hub, this is the game that will make your friends (or family) wonder why you’re glued to the screen. Trust us—it’s less “playstation” and more “play‑to‑relate.” Let the adventure begin!

Resident Evil Village

The buzz around “RE: Village” had a surreal flavour—think giant lady memes circulating everywhere, promising something big and bold. Streaming from the launch it turned out to be just right.

All in all, the hype was real, but the game kept its promise—no disappointment in sight.

Another title that hit stores in May didn’t disappoint either. “Pokemon Snap” gave us a fun, breezy experience—capture adorable creatures in the wild, no intense combat needed. Perfect for a quick pick‑up session.

Every big console and computer platform covered, so no matter your set‑up you can jump into these recent releases.

May 2021 was all about hitting the right vibe: big marketing, timely releases, and a balanced mix of horror, action, and wholesome fun. Whether you’re chasing a 10‑hour thrill or a light‑hearted photo op, there’s something for everyone.”

Guilty Gear ~Strive~

Guilty Gear Gets a Fresh Spin

Launch Date, Platform, and All That Jazz

Drop the calendar to June 11, 2021, and splash this gem onto PlayStation 4, PS5, and PC. No booming servers or big bling—just a straightforward, new‑look fighting adventure that even seasoned newbies can jam into.

Why I’m a Fan (and Hope You’re One Too)

• Zero-Gravity Gameplay – The fights are slick and forgiving. Even after a handful of matches, you’re already beating your bros.
• Attack‑Mashing Fun – Kinda like having a video‑game fighting‑style mixtape: flashy moves that look cooler than your phone’s wallpaper.
• Rock & Roll Vibes – The soundtrack drops beats that instantly put you in the mood for throwing punches.
• Spicy Storyline – I’m a colossal Sol Badguy fan, so the plot hooks me tighter than a chocolate bar in a candy shop.

What I’d Rate 10/10

If you’re looking for an easy‑to‑pick‑up brawler that still feels deep, this is it. Punches come fast, the storyline fills the gaps between button combos, and the music keeps your heart pumping like an illegal tie‑flop dance.

Expansion Note

Fun fact: something “FF7” related popped out in June, too—keeping the gaming world hopping and hands full. Let’s see what juicy surprises the next big release brings.

F1 2021

F1 2021: The Race That Outshined Zelda

Released on July 16, 2021, this game is a must‑grab for any fan who just finished Netflix’s Drive to Survive.

Story Mode: From Rookie to Champion

Picture yourself starting off as a fresh‑out‑of‑driving-school rookie, trying to climb the ranks of Formula One. Your biggest challenge? Managing that mixed relationship with your seasoned teammate—competitive, fiery, but always with a twist.

Build Your Own Dynasty

Aside from the sprint‑focused gameplay, there’s a create‑a‑team mode where you become the team boss. You’ll need to:

• Guide your drivers on the track
• Decide what new parts to develop for the cars
• Craft your public relations strategy with the media

Why It Beat Zelda

Let’s be honest—I was thoroughly surprised to find myself having more fun racing in F1 2021 than stepping through the mystical realms of Legend of Zelda, even though both launched the same month. The adrenaline of high‑speed battles, the tension of team politics, and the sweet triumphs of staying ahead—all wrapped in a story that keeps you glued to the screen.

Bottom Line

If you’re craving an electrifying blend of strategy, drama, and sheer speed, F1 2021 is the game that turns every lap into a page‑turning adventure. Hop on the track—your rookie dream awaits!

Tales of Arise

Finally, the Tales of Eternia Series Stitches It Up!

After a few shaky launches, Bandai Namco finally nailed the Tales formula with their newest pick‑up, making it the standout JRPG of 2021.

What Makes It Fun

• Game‑Feel Fixes – The developers squashed a bunch of bugs that once kept players sniffling.
• Battle System – It’s smooth, satisfying, and feels like a battle you’d love to replay over and over.
• Crazy Storyline – The plot twists make even fans of blockbuster adventures blush.

“It’s the best sequel since the original Tales of Eternia and the legendary Tales of Vesperia. Not a full ‘game‑above all’ claim, but it’s damn close.”

Bonus: The Best Waifu

We’re talking about Kisara – she’s the real heart‑stealer.

In short, if you’re hunting for a vivid narrative, responsive mechanics, and a dash of romance, this one’s your ticket. Enjoy the ride!

FIFA 22

FIFA 22: From Skeptic to Must‑Play Champion

On October 1, 2021, we finally saw the release of FIFA 22 on every major platform – PC, PlayStation 4, 5, Xbox One, Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. I started off feeling a bit of a “fence‑walker”, curious but not fully convinced.

Why I Got Hooked

• New “Create‑a‑Team” Mode – Building a squad from scratch felt like running a real football club. Every tweak mattered.
• Real‑World League Hype – The return of live crowds for the new EPL season gave the game an electric vibe.
• Flawless Gameplay – No major hiccups – it just ran like a well‑oiled machine.

Current Struggle: Promotion Quest

Despite the excitement, getting my freshly crafted team promoted to the EPL is proving to be a tightrope walk. Anyone else feel the gears grinding in the same struggle?

All‑Stars Meeting

My friend from Wonderwall.sg, Farhan Shafie, once bullied me over how great FIFA 22 is, and that brag feels sweet. But there’s more on the football front – let’s not forget his latest piece on the Lion City Sailors winning the Singapore Premier League for the first time. Grab a read – it’s a heartfelt tribute to local football glory.

Other games we enjoyed in 2021

Wa seh! Board and card games made in Singapore

Why Singapore‑Made Board Games Are the Ultimate Family Flick‑Glitch

Video games got you scrolling past your inbox, but nothing beats a board‑game session where the competition heats up, the drinks spill, and everyone is on the brink of a friendly (or not so friendly) war. Here’s a quick tour of the top Singapore‑crafted games that will make your living room feel like it’s right in the heart of the city.

1. Shiok Shuffle

• What it’s about: A fast‑paced card game that forces players to match colours, numbers, and a cheeky “shiok” card that ends the round in a flash.
• Why you’ll love it: The quick tempo means no one’s doing the laundry for an hour in a row!
• Fun factor: The “shiok” card can blast opponents into the void—so be ready to shout “oh nooo!”

2. Kangaroo Kaboom

• What it’s about: A board adventure where you hop across the “wayland” map, collecting snacks, dodging boomerangs, and leaping out of sticky situations.
• Why you’ll love it: Designed by a local team that blends tourist vibes with a rugged Croc‑style narrative.
• Fun factor: The player who crisply avoids the bridge “kabar” gets a toast‑like bonus—keeping the competition on their toes.

3. Happy House

• What it’s about: A family board game where you navigate your tiny house through the tropical jungle, encountering hazards and constraints that push you to use your sense of humor.
• Why you’ll love it: The unique “hilarious” basis and vibrant design sets it apart from lower‑budget home games.
• Fun factor: The free‑time element of the board adds an extra layer of tension, keeping your decisions snappy.

4. Jumbo Jambo

• What it’s about: A station‑based game where you control a giant “Jambo” moving through the city with daring strategies.
• Why you’ll love it: You’ll see familiar Singapore icons at every turn—vintage fades, rings, and all.
• Fun factor: The game’s quirky internal logic keeps things lively in the competitive arena.

5. Cardboard Kings

• What it’s about: A modern card‑stock game where you design the board with a “hey new thing” vibe and clock your time while you play.
• Why you’ll love it: You’ll shout “I want to be hacked!” while you plan your victorious moves.
• Fun factor: A stand‑up once you gather your “cardboard collection” for a truly in‑the‑moment board experience.

Wrapping Up

When you pick up any of these Singapore‑rooted games, you instantly feel the pulse of the city. The laughter, the mild ferocity, and the sheer excitement of seeing your friends get kata on the board creates big memories—much more than the endless scrolling through a mobile app. So next time you’re hunting for a way to spend an evening, rub the board up, shuffle the decks, and let the shiok games start. The living room will soon feel more like home—and less like a stuffy office.

Whole lot, fall in! These games will bring back fond memories of NS

Throwback to Those Army Game Days (Because Who Needs 5BX Anyway?)

Ever find yourself reminiscing about those good old NS days when you were a full‑time soldier on Xbox, armed with a controller instead of a rifle? Remember the thrill of scouting a jungle from the top shelf, or pretending your apartment’s a NATO base with a squad of floor‑plan defenders? Yeah, those were the pinnacle of chill time—until suddenly, the dreaded five‑block exercise (5BX) hits again.

Why Those Games Still Feel Fresh

• Cold‑weather missions that’d make you sweat in reality.
• Intense, realistic weaponry that keeps you on your toes.
• Team coordination drills that could fill a training manual.
• Strategic maps that make every clutch moment feel epic.

Top Army‑Themed Games That Bring the Old‑School Vibe

1. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare – Dive into swift, gritty battles that feel like a modern battlefield, complete with dynamic weather and military vehicles that make you feel like a real operative.
2. Rainbow Six Siege – Embrace tactical squad play; every siege feels like a ground‑level operation, knocking down walls and hunting down imposters with your best friends.
3. Battlefield 2042 – Massive multiplayer experience letting you dominate entire cities or set up a jungle reconnaissance, with FPS gameplay that screams army training.
4. Squad – True field‑force simulation with a heavy emphasis on teamwork, radio chatter, and skill‑based tactics. Great for bringing that “real combat” vibe.
5. Armored Warfare – Focus on heavy armor and stealth in a realistic tactical setting, perfect for players who enjoy tank ops and covert movements.
6. Army of Two: The 40th Day – A dramatic narrative where you and a squad partner fight through war zones—easy to pick up but hard to put down.

How These Games Keep That Military Spirit Alive

Each title offers a unique angle of military realism—whether it’s spotting enemies in dense foliage, coordinating with teammates, or simply navigating complex battle maps. Even if you’re not in uniform at the gym, these games make you feel like you’re on the front lines.

Ready for a Re‑run?

Next time you’re waiting for your morning 5BX, pull up one of these games, assemble your squad (virtual or real), and enjoy the nostalgia while you still push those dumbbells (or at least keep the thought of them in mind). It’s the perfect way to keep your spirit high, your gear ready, and your humor intact—all while staying away from the dreaded exercise routine.

Olympic fever: 5 games to get you in a winning mood

Singapore’s Olympic Stars Shines Unapologetically

Our Athletes Made Headlines

They literally stole the spotlight at this year’s Olympics and Paralympics, leaving us all a little breathless, yet oh‑so proud.

Want the Full Scoop?

Jump into the story about our Singapore MVPs—read all about them here.

From Couch to Champion (Virtually)

If you’re all “I gotta Netflix tonight” but secretly want to feel that Olympic roar, go check out these games.
Our favorite? Still the classic Doodle Champion Island Games, because who doesn’t love doodling their way to victory?

• Game 1: Doodle Champion Island Games – guaranteed fun.
• Game 2: … (more titles can’t wait to be discovered).

Side Note: Netflix’s New Frontier

Rumours are swirling that Netflix’s next move could be in videogames—yes, you heard that right. Check out the latest info here.

Publication Details

This article first hit the digital pages of Wonderwall.sg under the categories Gaming and Video Games for the digital crowd.