The SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards - Day Four

All right. We're knee-deep in awards now. The Oscars may be on my birthday, but they're nothing compared to the awesomeness that is the SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards, right? Yeah, I'm right. That was rhetorical, mind you. My teeth have been brushed, and there's gel in my hair, so let's get this party continuing, shall we? Today we honor the best games for each system save for the 360 which died on me because it was cheaply made. Let's do it to it!

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[Best PSP Game]

And the nominees are...

Hot Shots Tennis: Get A Grip


The first Hot Shots Tennis was on the PlayStation 2, and it was a decent if not flawed game. It had a very short single-player mode. Hot Shots Tennis: Get A Grip fixes this by having a more in-depth campaign having you traveling around the world visiting locales, opening treasure chests, fending off foes, and gaining new recruits to your "We Love Tennis" team. The gameplay hits the sweet spot with some tricky AI, fun modes, and generally good times are had.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker


Essentially Metal Gear Solid 5, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker splits up the game into bite-sized chunks in the form of missions. This is perfect for the portable PlayStation indeed! The missions are well thought out with each one giving more and more to the story. Sure, the cutscenes may tend to run a little heavy like Metal Gear Solid 4 before it, but you can always skip those! Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker plays smooth, tight, and is just a bunch of enjoyable fun.

Phantasy Star Portable 2


Similar to the Phantasy Star Online games on Dreamcast, Gamecube, and Xbox, Phantasy Star Portable 2 takes you for a wild ride with its single-player and online Wi-Fi modes. The goal here is to take out monsters, gain new loot, and upgrade your weaponry. It's all fine and dandy, and it's massive amounts of fun, too! A significant upgrade from the original PSP (Phantasy Star Portable, that is), PSP 2 is a great action-RPG worthy of your attention.

Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep


Enter the confusing world of Kingdom Hearts once again. This time it's for the first entry on the PSP, and boy, is it a good one. Play as one of three characters as you explore the wonderful worlds of Disney in this excellent action-RPG. There's no Sora to be found this time around as the new cast rounds out things quite well. For a meaty single-player game, Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep is one game to watch out for this year!

And the winner is...







Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker

Solid Snake does it again, and this time he definitely meets business. Taking place in the era of Snake Eater, Peace Walker takes the stealth-action gameplay of the series and puts it in mission form and on the PlayStation Portable. What it adds up to is a magnificent stealth title that any PSP owner should pick up and play immediately.

Runner-Up: Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep

===

[Best Nintendo DS Game]

And the nominees are...

Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies


When Dragon Quest IX was announced for a handheld, the gaming world nearly crapped their pants in turmoil. How could my Dragon Quest be released on a weak handheld-- much less the DS? Well, fears were put to rest when the game was released, and it was awesome. With customizable heroes, a lengthy quest, plenty of side content, and gorgeous graphics, Sentinels of the Starry Skies is one RPG that fans of the genre should not miss.

Professor Layton and the Unwound Future


Plenty of puzzles ahoy for Professor Layton and his apprentice, Luke, in the third chapter of the Professor Layton series. There's many brain teasers and puzzles to wrap your head around and be embarrassed about when you cannot solve them without using up your last hint coins! Indeed this puzzle game with a rich story is one to look out for definitely as all Layton games are worth buying, young or old.

Picross 3D


Picross in 2D was a challenge. Picross in 3D is an even bigger challenge. This time there's three dimensions of fun to be had here. Numbers on the side of the 3D shape give you clues as to how many blocks need to be destroyed in the puzzle. By using the powerful tool of deduction, you slowly chip away at the ship until you unveil the special shape. Sometimes it's an animal, flower, or spaceship even! Or you can opt to create your own puzzles in this puzzling puzzler.

Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver


The fad that never dies returns with remakes of Pokemon Gold and Silver. With snazzy new visuals, added content, and the ability to explore both Johto and Kanto lands, Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver feature the same gotta-catch-em-all mentality of past games. Whether you're battling with friends or against the AI, there's fun to be had in this pair of brand-new Pokemon games!

And the winner is...






Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies

Those starry skies shine bright in Dragon Quest IX. This immense RPG is full of content-- hundreds of hours before seeing everything there is to see. The game sold so well that Nintendo is bringing over Dragon Quest VI, the remade version, to North America this February. Here's hoping this RPG series never loses its tremendous stride!

Runner-Up: Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver

===

[Best PlayStation 3 Game]

And the nominees are...

God of War III


The gods are angry at Kratos, and Zeus is aiming his powerful lightning bolts directly at the former God of War's heart. Ooh... How intense! From the remarkable HD visuals that look like a work of art as David Jaffe, creator of the series, once stated, to the amazing combat system and powerful score, God of War III serves as a reminder of how a triple-A blockbuster should be.

Gran Turismo 5


Polyphony Digital were hard at work on this highly-anticipated sequel for years. In fact, they released Gran Turismo 5: Prologue as a means to satiate the anticipation for a while longer as they honed their skills on this great racing simulator. Speed through Laguna, race through the streets of Italy, and drift through turns in this excellent racer. With more cars than a Chevy dealership, Gran Turismo 5 is the ultimate driving simulator.

The Sly Collection


Three games in one plus some Move-enabled minigames, The Sly Collection takes your favorite raccoon thief, and puts him in glorious HD. Each game plays differently from the next. One is a pure platformer while the second plays out more as a sandbox title. The third is a mix of both. No matter the game you play in the Sly trilogy, you're sure to have a gigantic smile on your goofy face.

Sports Champions


In my opinion, this is the premiere Move title, showing what Sony's Wii-too controller can do to its fullest. From archery to bocce ball, there's an impressive list of sports to play, awards to earn, and good times to have. Table tennis is much more responsive and entertaining than that of Wii Sports Resort. As many know, this is no easy task! If you're interested in a Move, be sure to pick up Sports Champions as your first Move title!

And the winner is...






God of War III

How are the other games supposed to beat a god? Answer? They can't. There's just no way in Hades. Kratos reigns supreme with some visceral and engaging combat, jaw-dropping visuals, and sensational score and voice acting. While it's not the best game of the God of War trilogy (that honor goes to II), it still is one very entertaining game.

Runner-Up: Gran Turismo 5

===

[Best Wii Game]

Tatsunoko VS. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars


Joe the Condor versus Ryu? Bring it on! A game that I deemed better than Super Street Fighter 4, Tatsunoko VS. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars brings all the fun of fighting games and streamlines it so anyone can pick up the controller and play. Sure, most of us will have our asses handed to us when we play online, but that's a whole 'nother story! With enough memorable characters, arenas, and combos to be had, Tatsunoko VS. Capcom is the best fighter this year.

Monster Hunter Tri


Capcom did Wii owners well this year with two Wii Game of the Year nominees. Monster Hunter Tri is essentially a big boss rush game. You are constantly thwarting the plans of gigantic monsters who intend to KO you in three hits. Meanwhile, you earn new weapons and armor from defeated monsters via transforming animal hides into valuable weapons. A difficult game to jump into, Monster Hunter Tri was my very first experience with the franchise, and I enjoyed every second of it.

Super Mario Galaxy 2


Super Mario Galaxy was 2007's Game of the Year here at SuperPhillip Central. This year, its sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2 came out, and it blew me away. The new challenges, puzzles, and tasks to accomplish were literally out of this world! The soundtrack is easily my favorite of the year, and jumping on 3D Goombas never gets old. If you're looking for a supremely competent 3D platformer, look no further than Super Mario Galaxy 2.

Donkey Kong Country Returns


Retro Studios handled the 3D versions of Metroid, and they handled them well. Now armed with the Donkey Kong Country franchise, Retro knocked this one out of the park as well with Donkey Kong Country Returns. The levels were fiendishly designed, the enemies were inspired, and the remade music was catchy, too. It's a game to absolutely go ape over or go bananas. Whichever monkey pun you prefer is fine with me!

Metroid: Other M


Some folks have a seething hatred of this game due to its insane story. I didn't mind it at all. If Samus Aran wants to have daddy issues, let the woman have daddy issues! From the fun exploration of the Bottleship to taking out enemies in stellar fashion, Metroid: Other M featured a whole array of new tricks, some good, some bad. All-in-all, Samus' newest adventure is definitely worth taking a look at.

Sonic Colors


You know the Wii is doing well when there's six games vying for the Wii Game of the Year in 2010! What a year it was for Sonic. First there was Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing, then Sonic teh Hedgehog 4, and that was followed by the incredibly great Sonic Colors for Nintendo Wii. Blast through levels at the speed of sound as Sonic the Hedgehog. This time around, the added gimmick, the Wisps, does not deter from the game but enhances it. Bravo, Sonic Team. Bravo.

And the winner is...







Super Mario Galaxy 2

Who else could it be but Mario? The fantastic platforming, creative new galaxies, and stellar soundtrack kept Mario Galaxy 2 apart from the rest of the pack. Truly, it was not even close. 3D platformers are always a fun genre to play, and Mario generally always leads the way. This definitely holds true for Super Mario Galaxy 2.

Runner-Up: Donkey Kong Country Returns

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Tomorrow night is the final night of the SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards, so buckle up! We'll be looking back at last year's Game of the Year followed by the moment everyone has been waiting for-- 2010's Game of the Year! See you then, gang!

The SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards - Day Three

Yay! I got the grape jam out of my tuxedo. I've been wearing this thing for three days straight now. That's how dedicated I am to this award show, darn it! Today is a cool day for nominees. This time we're checking out the Most Overlooked game, Developer of the Year, and Multiplatform Game of the Year. It's sure to get interesting, so put on your helmets, fasten your seat belts, and do whatever else is necessary to prepare for the awesomeness that is the SPC Best of 2010 Awards-- Day Three!

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[Most Overlooked]

It hurts me deeply when a favorite game of mine is overlooked. I get angry. Not, like, "grrrr" angry, but more, like, "Darn you, people, for not buying this game!" You know what I mean? Well, I do at least, and that's all that really matters here, I imagine. Here are your nominees for most overlooked game of 2010...

Picross 3D (DS)


Man, was I addicted to this title! The goal is to make a shape by chipping away at blocks in a three-dimensional fashion. Numbers on the side of the shapes inform you of how many blocks are in a set row. Then it all comes down to the power of deduction to solve the puzzle for yourself. With hundreds of puzzles and a cheap budget-price tag, there's no excuse why this title didn't sell better!

Metroid: Other M (Wii)


Metroid: Other M didn't set the world on fire like Nintendo intended. It was supposed to be one of their biggest titles of the year, but it has yet to even hit half a million sales worldwide. Now that is sad. Regardless, was it game's weird story? Was it the linear progression of the game? Who knows? I am just disappointed that this wonderful game in the Metroid series didn't sell the way it should have!

FlingSmash (Wii)


I like hitting that little sucker around. Zip and Pip, the dynamic duo, trying to help out Sutton Island from the evil bad guys trying to take over the island. You use the new Wii MotionPlus to smack those bastards through twenty-four progressively more difficult side-scrolling levels. It's good fun when the controls work. And the game is really only ten bucks with a forty dollars Wii MotionPlus controller. Pretty cool deal that most people overlooked for Wii Play. Bastards!

Limbo (XBLA)


What can I say about Limbo? It's an atmospheric platformer/adventure game where you watch out for hidden traps, rolling boulders, and gigantic arachnids! The game is really beautiful to look at, but so many gamers overlooked it. Why? I don't know. Maybe art is subjective to people, and many folks didn't appreciate the style of the game. Limbo is in limbo to most gamers, and that's just disappointing.

Red Steel 2 (Wii)


RED STEEEEEEEL! YEAAAAAAAAH! All right. I'm calm now. This game must have been hampered by the MotionPlus only controls which left many a-gamer out in the cold. Regardless, those who played the game appreciated the masterful gunplay and swordplay that the game possessed. It was a blast taking down samurai warriors with a combination of a gun and a sharp, slicin' and dicin' katana blade. Unfortunately, the game sold like Enron stock.

And the winner is...







Metroid: Other M (Wii)

A big blockbuster game that sold poorly in the eyes of everyone, including Nintendo. That's no good! Now Samus Aran's next adventure may be in ten years instead of two since Other M sold so poorly. I definitely mind this unlike some people. I loved this game. Sure, the story was told oddly, but it was a fun adventure for the most part save for those Where's Waldo? TM sections.

Runner-Up: Red Steel 2 (Wii)

===

[Developer of the Year]

Nintendo EAD won last year over Rocksteady Games who made the incredible Batman: Arkham Asylum. Can they make it a repeat this year with Super Mario Galaxy 2? Let's find out with our nominees...

Nintendo EAD


Last year, Nintendo EAD won this coveted award for their work on both New Super Mario Bros. Wii as well as The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. This year they are nominated for this award for their work on Super Mario Galaxy 2. A team that can consistently pump out award-winning franchises and games is just sensational. Can they pull of the two-peat?

Sony Santa Monica


The makers of God of War III crafted an exceptional game. It consisted of Kratos, the God of War himself, terrorizing the god who turned against him, Zeus. The gameplay here is exquisitely-made with some impressive backdrops, intense sequences, and clever camera angles. This game really is a work of art, and only Sony Santa Monica could have done it. Well, maybe not.

Polyphony Digital


The team perfected the racing simulator with Gran Turismo 4. They somehow further enhanced the genre with Gran Turismo 5 on the PlayStation 3. How do you enhance perfection? Well, the fine folks at Polyphony Digital did just that. With more cars, more tracks, realistic driving physics, and a snazzy soundtrack, Polyphony Digital certainly outdid themselves this time around.

SUMO Digital


This team is known for their great tennis titles. However, in this case and in this year the team worked on Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing, and did a terrific job. The tracks are well-designed, the cast of colorful characters is terrific, and the multiple modes are enjoyable. Who hasn't wanted to pit Sonic against Knuckles in a race?

And the winner is...







Nintendo EAD

For two years in a row, Nintendo EAD has amazed me the most with their impressive game-making skills. This time they crafted the excellent Super Mario Galaxy 2 which may be in the running for best Wii game! This time just knows how to make fun games, and Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a testament to that.

Runner-Up: Sony Santa Monica

===

[Multiplatform Game of the Year]

I own multiple consoles, but my 360 RROD'd. That's the reason why the 360 won't have a game of the year this year or any other. If Microsoft could make dependable products, this wouldn't be a problem. Regardless, I own every other console, and got to play a slew of multiplatform games. Here are the nominees...

Dead Rising 2 (PS3, 360)


Join Chuck Greene as he battles the undead in beautiful Paradise City in Dead Rising 2. While not as impressive as the original Dead Rising on the 360, Dead Rising 2 does have its share of interesting and exciting moments! From driving through the halls of Paradise City's casinos, running over zombies, to combining weapons to form new, more powerful tools of destruction, Dead Rising 2 is a fantastic sequel worth your money.

Super Meat Boy (360, PC)


Meat is delicious. You vegetarians are missing out! Nonetheless, meat is also fun to play as, especially when you're Super Meat Boy. You play through super-difficult platforming perils, through sawmills, chainsaws, and other death traps. The game is a bone-crushingly hard, but it's rewarding to run through and complete each and every level Super Meat Boy offers.

Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing (PS3, 360, Wii, DS)


SUMO Digital's Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is an impressive racer as I've said repeatedly throughout this award show. May I have your permission to gush about it even more? Awesome! With fun and creative tracks to race upon based on several SEGA properties, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is a racer that outshines, outclasses, and outperforms Mario Kart Wii. It beats out a Mario Kart! Unbelievable!

Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, 360, Wii, PC)


Ooh-ra-- all right. That's enough of that. Call of Duty: Black Ops features an intense single-player campaign, incredibly fun online multiplayer, and some gorgeous graphics. The multiplayer's prestige system gives players rewards for kills and wins and levels up players with new rewards and weapons. All right. I'm saying it again! Ooh-rah!

Super Street Fighter 4 (PS3, 360)


Over thirty fighters from around the world fight for purpose, honor, and strength. Super Street Fighter 4 features new fighters, arenas, and options. It's a terrific fighting game with individual strategies offering new standards of play. The graphics are super-impressive with an awesome art style, great music, and classic characters that we know and love. Plus new ones!

And the winner is...







Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing

I'm sick of talking about the wonderful track design featuring locations like Dino Jungle from Billy Hatcher, Seaside Hill from Sonic Heroes, and many more. Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Eggman, Billy Hatcher, Ulala, Aiai, and others join the fray as you race through the colorful courses and awesome tracks. Better than Mario Kart Wii, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is SPC's best Multiplatform game.

Runner-Up: Super Meat Boy

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There goes by the halfway point of our lovely awards ceremony. I'm jumping into the washer with my tuxedo to get it clean. That is the smart thing to do, right? Hope you enjoyed tonight's awards. See you tomorrow, friends!

The SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards - Day Two

My tuxedo has been dry-cleaned! You know why? That's because it's time for Day Two of the wondrous SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards! This day we'll be taking a peek at the Best New Franchise, Biggest Unexpected Surprise, and Most Disappointing. Ooh. We're ending on a downer. I hope I can take it! Let's do this, dawgs!

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[Best New Franchise]

So many times a new franchise is just the same genre painted in new colors. That's what gets me down about so-called new IPs. Regardless, this list features my favorite new franchises of 2010. Here are our so-called nominees...

ModNation Racers (PS3)


Let's race! ModNation Racers puts you in control. Want to play the single player campaign? It's awesome. Want to design your own tracks and detail your own vehicles and Mods? That's awesome, too. It really is your race to win, design, control, whatever. Playing the game with friends or complete strangers is a blast as well! ModNation Racers might not outdo Mario Kart, but it is a very competent kart racer nonetheless.

Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing (PS3, 360, Wii, DS)


Let's race even more! It's time to the pedal to the metal, and race with Sonic and his SEGA cohorts! There's Ulala, Aiai, Beat, those two zombies from House of the Dead EX, and so many more! It's a SEGA orgy in here! I'm surprised orgy is actually not being spell-checked. Regardless, with supreme track design, a great musical score of classic SEGA songs, and cool online lobbies, this title reigns on top when it comes to new IPs! Or does it? Tee-hee!

3D Dot Game Heroes (PS3)


Sure, it's the original Legend of Zelda taken under a fine microscope, dissected, and crafted finely into its own 3D adventure, but it's a brand-new adventure old-school Zelda-style! With sword upgrades, intense dungeons, monster and boss encounters, and a clever art style featuring 3D blocks making up everything from the characters to the scenery, 3D Dot Game Heroes may borrow heavily from Zelda, but it's a fun journey nonetheless.

MAG (PS3)


MAG. Massive Action Game. They weren't kidding either. Hundreds of players shooting each other in team warfare is a blast! What makes MAG unique is that is an exclusively multiplayer experience. So don't buy this game if you don't have online capabilities! You'll be sucked... er... pissed! The leveling up system makes a lot of sense with players earning new abilities for reaching new XP levels. MAG is the shit, dawg.

And the winner is...








ModNation Racers (PS3)

Hitting the finish line first is ModNation Racers, a truly impressive title! Who doesn't love racing on the excellent premade tracks, your own custom-made tracks, or zooming around the ModSpot for fun? No one, that's who! The controls are easy to master, the game is a joy to play, and you'll just desire to earn more XP as fast as you can accumulate it. Congrats to ModNation Racers, Best New Franchise of 2010!

Runner-Up: Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing (PS3, 360, Wii, DS)

===

[Most Unexpected Surprise]

This isn't like suddenly becoming pregnant after a rough night of passionate sex. No, no. Did I mention this site was for teens and up? Anywho... No, this is like those games that you played and were expecting them to not be all that good, but lo and behold they were awesome! That's exactly what papa is talking about! Let's get to it, daddios and mommios!

Red Steel 2 (Wii)


The first Red Steel was not a good game. It wasn't even a mediocre one-- it was just bad all around. However, Ubisoft redeemed themselves with the MotionPlus-exclusive sequel featuring gun-toting, sword-slashing gameplay. There was no multiplayer component unfortunately, but what there was of the single-player was one heck of a workout! A fun, enjoyable game, Red Steel 2 made March a great month for Wii owners.

Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing (PS3, 360, Wii, DS)


SEGA has been sucking it up a lot lately. So don't develop the game internally, outsource it to the excellent Sumo Digital. That is exactly what SEGA did. The end result? One of my favorite kart racers of all time with excellent tracks, radical characters, and memorable music from days long past. Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing surprised me as it was even better than Mario Kart Wii! ...But not by TOO much!

ModNation Racers (PS3)


Using LittleBigPlanet's design philosophy of create, play, and share, ModNation Racers brought with it an impressive trick system, XP system, track-creation program, and awesomely designed premade courses to trick out on. Playing with friends is always a blast, or heck, even with strangers! If you like fast kart racing action, and you own a PlayStation 3, then I reckon it's time to bust out a copy of ModNation Racers!

MAG (PS3)


We've talked so much about this game in the various categories it has been in that I'm really running out of ways to describe this game and make it sound interesting! Who knew a game that was multiplayer-only could function with a thriving community? I mean, it's still your typical FPS, but it's a fun one at the very least. Okay. I'm officially out of words now!

Sonic Colors (Wii)


When the wisps were introduced, it seemed the Sonic Cycle was in full swing all over again. However, as hands-on coverage of the game was given out to the media, it seemed this game, Sonic Colors, might actually be good! No way, Jose! Yes way! With incredible level design, rocking music, and a carefully-constructed 2D and 3D levels, Sonic Colors is not just a great Sonic game, it's just a great game all around.

Donkey Kong Country Returns (Wii)


I had faith in Retro Studios to produce an excellent return to the Donkey Kong Country franchise, but I was not expecting what I received. It was a full-out awesome adventure with hidden goodies all over the place, multiple shortcuts, barrels to blast between, and Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong-- just how it should be! The game simply outclasses Rare's efforts save for DKC2, and that is no small feat.

And the winner is...








Sonic Colors (Wii)

A true gem in a 3D franchise that just couldn't catch a break from their developers, Sonic Colors is the ultimate 3D Sonic game. It's not just a good 3D Sonic game, it's a good 3D game, Sonic or not. The levels are masterfully-crafted, the game looks great, and the soundtrack is just beautiful when it's not rocking your butt off! Well done, Sonic, you've finally reached the big time!

Runner-Up: Red Steel 2 (Wii)

===

[Most Disappointing]

Kinect (360)


I hate Kinect. I played it, and it was not fun. I don't like jumping around like a moron while a camera records me. How do you like my third leg, Kinect? It's my penis. With a pathetic lineup of release date software featuring a paltry amount of Wii clones Kinect-ized, Kinect may sell well, but those of us in the know and with some taste know what kind of garbage desperate Microsoft is cooking.

Metroid: Other M (Wii)


A lot of people had a problem with the story bits of this title. I didn't really mind those nor did I mind the somewhat linear gameplay. Regardless, the game opens up immensely around halfway to the end, so there's lots of traditional exploration to do. Nonetheless, many folks were unhappy with Samus' newest adventure, love that the game didn't sell to Nintendo's standards (that's lame gamers for you), and want the series to go into hibernation. Which is more disappointing-- the game or the gamers?

Dante's Inferno (PS3, 360)


Hyped up to be a God of War killer but was anything but, Dante's Inferno sold like bullocks even with multiple Super Bowl ads. I loved the ad with David Letterman, Oprah, and Jay Leno. You know the one I'm talking about, right? Oh, back to the description! The game wasn't very well designed nor did it have any kind of fun factor to make it even resemble God of War. Add to the fact that it was the most pirated 360 game of 2010, and you have a mess of something.

Sonic Colors (DS)


A DS game reaches Most Disappointing status when it resembles a gerbil running through a maze of poorly constructed levels. Speed is key here, but where's the fun in that when you always fall down a bottomless pit without any warning? At least in the damn Wii version they tell you when there's a bottomless pit ahead! Regardless, Sonic Colors for the DS is a disappointing title that could have been so much better had the team spent more time on the level design.

And the loser is...









Kinect (360)

Screw you, Kinect. You raped my sister and dragged my family's name through the mud. Okay, so my distaste for Kinect isn't steeped in that much back-story, but still it's a horrible add-on from a desperate company in greedy Microsoft. The games suck for the most part (when they even work properly), the tech is too expensive, and the selection of games is, again, paltry. I'm going to get a hemorrhage from this. I almost put hemorrhoid! Now THAT would have been embarrassing!

Runner-Up: Dante's Inferno (PS3, 360)

===

Hey, dudes! That's all for day two of the SPC Best of 2010 Awards! I hope you had fun tonight reading my picks for best and worst of 2010! Does anyone know how to get grape jam out of a tuxedo? I think I'm screwed. Oh, well. See you tomorrow night, friends!

The SuperPhillip Central Best of 2010 Awards - Opening Night

SUPERPHILLIP'S NOTE: I apologize that this is late. I was hospitalized for a little bit. No worries-- I'm doing well!

It's that time again! Time for the third annual SPC Best of Awards! The awesome year known as 2010 is finally nearing its end. Like many other sites and publications, I'm taking note of my favorite games in a variety of humbling categories. Which game will win the coveted SPC Game of 2010? You'll have to wait till Friday for that answer! For the time being, check out last year's award show here:

Best of 2009 Awards - Day One
Best of 2009 Awards - Day Two
Best of 2009 Awards - Day Three
Best of 2009 Awards - Day Four
Best of 2009 Awards - Day Five

With the pleasantries out of the way, it's time to kick off this award show! I promise it will be less retarded than Spike TV's VGAs!

[Best Original Soundtrack]

Music is fun. I love conducting to various music tracks as a way of meditation. That's enough about me though! This year had so much great music to listen to, it's a challenge to pick the best, isn't it? Well, I did so anyway and persevered! Here's the nominees...

Final Fantasy XIII (PS3, 360)


Nobuo Uematsu is nowhere to be found this time around, but that doesn't deter the new batch of composers from coming up with one of the more memorable soundtracks in recent years! Everything from the radical battle theme to impressive boss theme demands the listener's attention. Not bad for a bunch of unknown composers, huh?

Blinded by Light
Lightning's Theme
Snow's Theme

Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)


The Mario series of historic and important video games have always had impressive music in them. Recreate the Mario sound with an orchestra and choir, and you have an even more impressive sound. Mahito Yokota whose previous work was the original Galaxy and composing veteran, Koji Kondo, bring us this excellent and lively soundtrack. And hey! It's actually memorable unlike so many Western soundtracks! Oooh.... diss!

Bowser's Lava Lair
Throwback Galaxy
Melty Monster Galaxy

Kirby's Epic Yarn (Wii)


Kirby games also have a wonderful history of having great, cute, lively soundtracks as well which is why I simply HAD to nominate Kirby's Epic Yarn. This game has such a good soundtrack that I would call it Kirby's best. Oh, yes. I went there, peeps. From the same composer that took it to the fridge with Wario Land: Shake It!, Kirby's Epic Yarn is an incredible game with a great soundtrack to go along with it.

Fountain Gardens
Rainbow Falls
Butter Building

Sonic Colors (Wii)


Sonic speeds into the SPC Best of 2010 Awards in style with a fantastic soundtrack to match! Composed by a plethora of SEGA's most talented composers, the Sonic Colors soundtrack features styles of music such as trance, rock, and classical for your ears to dance to as you race through loop de loop after loop de loop. So the main theme might seem a bit "hinky". That doesn't stop Sonic Colors from having one of the best soundtracks come this year.

Reach for the Stars
Planet Wisp - Act 1
Asteroid Coaster - Act 1

Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers (Wii)


This game came out at the end of 2009, but it was around the same time of the 2009 Best of Awards that I felt it needed some spotlight. And so it is. Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers has some excellently composed music. There are some familiar themes to listen to and enjoy, but most of it is all-new and a delight to the ears.

Lett Highlands
Selkie Guild
Catch and Throw

God of War III (PS3)


Kratos, the former God of War, has returned, and this time, he's pissed! Well, truthfully, when isn't he pissed? I mean, seriously! Regardless, this epic soundtrack to go along with this epic game is one for the masses indeed! With choir chanting, intense strings, and banging drums, the God of War III soundtrack is as epic (third time I've used that word in this description already) as the game it represents!

Brothers of Blood
Overture - Main Theme
Poseidon's Wrath

And the winner is...








Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)

Mahito Yokota and Koji Kondo, the dream team, have done it again. Super Mario Galaxy 2 isn't just hummable, but it's intense, carefree, lovable, and lovely all at the same time! Some may call this soundtrack inferior to the original Galaxy, but I love this one just the same. Both soundtracks have their ups and downs, but that doesn't stop Super Mario Galaxy 2 from having the soundtrack of the year!

Runner-Up: Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers

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[Best Multiplayer]

Playing by yourself is fun. I mean, any man knows that if you know what I mean, but playing with others is just more social. And you don't want to be anti-social, do you? No, of course, you don't. Regardless, these are the nominees for best multiplayer game of 2010. Strap on your jock straps, and get ready to roll.

Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, 360, Wii, PC)


I'm not going to say "ooh-rah". Not yet anyway! I'll save that for the next category this game is nominated in! Regardless, Call of Duty: Black Ops' multiplayer isn't severely that different from past games. You kill people, you win games, you earn experience and prestige that levels you up to unlock new weapons and abilities. The maps are varied and fun to play on, and the system of leveling up lets even the n00biest of n00bs proceed and level up.

Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing (PS3, 360, Wii, DS)


Sonic and SEGA's best and brightest line up on the starting line to race against one another. You can, too, y'know! The multiplayer is set up in a fashion where a host sets up a room for up to seven other players worldwide or nationally. He (or she) selects the course to race upon, and then you earn SEGA Miles which is the currency the game uses to buy new tracks, music, and characters. For a fun online racing experience, none come close to Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing.

GoldenEye 007 (Wii)


I'm humming the James Bond theme while typing this. I politely ask that you hum it, too, while you read this nomination description. Or you sing the Goldeneye theme song like Tina Turner. I don't really have a preference. Using Call of Duty's leveling up system is a cool trick, but it also unlocks new guns, modes, and abilities for your little secret or double agent! Not only some great online for Wii owners, it's simply an awesome multiplayer title in general.

ModNation Racers (PS3)


I loved building my own tracks and having my PSN friends race on them. Or you can simply race on the greatly-designed premade courses that are also buckets of fun. Either way, you're in for a tubular time. The lobbies are made so that you wait a minimal amount of time to race as you earn precious XP to climb the ranks in the ModSpot. Mario Kart, move over, as you have some new competition on the online front!

MAG (PS3)


When your name stands for Massive Action Game, you better have the tools to bring it. MAG did such a thing. This PlayStation 3 exclusive proved it could be a multiplayer-only game, and get away with it! Working as a massive team in this massive game on massive maps is massive fun. Enough with the massive already, Super! Nonetheless, the intense firefights against hundreds of players is just an awesome feeling giving this title an edge in this award show!

And the winner is...








MAG (PS3)

I was just impressed massively (there he goes again) with MAG. How so many players duking it out on one map could be so much fun escaped me until I played the game. Working with a large (synonym of massive) team is such a cool feeling as I stated before in the nomination description. MAG has the guns, it has the goods, and it's an immensely wild experience.

Runner-Up: Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, 360, Wii, PC)

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[Best Presentation]

Looks aren't everything, but I'll be damned if they don't look pretty! These games are the best-looking of the best-looking. The creme de le creme, if you'll excuse my French. What game looks the best though? Let's find out with our nominees...

Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, 360, Wii, PC)


Ooh-rah! Do armed forces really say that? I don't know. Do Black Ops say "ooh-rah" as well? I don't know the answer to that either. What I do know, however, is that Call of Duty: Black Ops takes the AAA blockbuster to a whole 'nother level with its intense cinematography, brutal, visceral graphics, and grade A voice acting and score. Even on the weak Wii, the action is not compromised to an extent that it ruins the experience. Now that's class!

Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)


What a wonderful universe Mario shares his platforming adventures in! The visuals don't have the moniker of being good "just for the Wii". They, in fact, look good next to the big boys in my opinion. Perhaps all my medicine is souring my mind, but I love the colorful galaxies, triumphant orchestral score, and intricate camera angles that Mario Galaxy 2 possesses. Mario, you're a star!

Kirby's Epic Yarn (Wii)


Yep, I'm joining GameTrailers in nominating Kirby's Epic Yarn for best presentation. Y'wanna fight about it? No, let's make love, not war. Regardless, Kirby's Epic Yarn supports several unique art styles with a world consisting of yarn and fabrics of various varieties. The groovy soundtrack accompanying this gorgeous game is wonderful as well. This presentation package is as interesting as it is a joy to gaze upon!

God of War III (PS3)


With some of the most impressive HD graphics, period, God of War III stands tall with its jaw-dropping visuals, awesome orchestral score, and HD oh-my-goodness-I-think-I-just-orgasmed presentation. It looks even better on an HDTV, but do not worry, SD only owners, the game looks just dandy in standard definition. No worries on being left out on the fun!

And the winner is...









God of War III (PS3)

What else could it be besides God of War III? Hey, kids, that rhymed! I also noticed I ended every description in this nomination category with an exclamation point. My apologies if that was annoying. Nonetheless, God of War III outclasses every other game in this category severely with its eye candy, awesome artistic visuals, and impressive settings and backdrops. The wonderful music and voice acting only further complements this radical title. There's no wonder why God of War III outshines, outclasses, and outdoes every single title released this year.

Runner-Up: Kirby's Epic Yarn (Wii)

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I hoped you enjoyed night one of the SPC Best of 2010 Awards. This is always my favorite time of the year. I love looking back on the most awesome games of a given year and awarding them. Stay tuned tomorrow night for three more categories of nominations!

Apologies for Non-Symmetry

I would like to apologize for the lack of updates this month. I am currently undergoing treatment at a treatment center. I do not wish to say what the treatment is for-for privacy reasons. However, I will say that I will be back soon with new reviews as well as 2010's SuperPhillip Central Game of the Year Awards. I hope you will look forward to that and my return.