Most Anticipated Game 2022: The Winner Is...

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Alright, gamers, let's dive into the most anticipated game of 2022! The year 2022 was packed with incredible releases, and the anticipation for some titles was absolutely palpable. We saw sequels to beloved franchises, entirely new IPs promising groundbreaking experiences, and long-awaited projects finally coming to fruition. Deciding which game was the most anticipated is tough because everyone has different tastes and genres they prefer. But based on hype, pre-order numbers, and overall buzz, we can definitely pinpoint a few frontrunners and ultimately crown a winner.

When we talk about the most anticipated games of 2022, several titles immediately spring to mind. Elden Ring, without a doubt, was a massive contender. FromSoftware's pedigree with the Dark Souls series, combined with the open-world collaboration with George R.R. Martin, created a storm of excitement. Horizon Forbidden West continued Aloy's journey in a visually stunning and narratively rich world, building on the success of the first game. God of War Ragnarök saw Kratos and Atreus facing down Ragnarök itself, promising an epic conclusion to the Norse saga. These were just a few of the heavy hitters vying for the title of most anticipated. The gaming community was buzzing with speculation, theories, and eager countdowns to release dates. Each of these games brought something unique to the table, making the competition incredibly fierce. The discussions and debates surrounding these titles were a testament to the passion and excitement within the gaming world. It wasn't just about the games themselves; it was about the shared experience of anticipating something great, something that had the potential to redefine the gaming landscape.

The Contenders for the Crown

Let's break down some of the major contenders for the title of most anticipated game of 2022:

Elden Ring: FromSoftware's open-world action RPG was a massive hit. Its challenging gameplay, intricate world design, and collaboration with George R.R. Martin created a perfect storm of hype. Elden Ring stood out with its vast open world, allowing players to explore at their own pace and discover secrets hidden in every corner. The freedom to build your character and tackle challenges in your own way was a major draw. The difficulty, a hallmark of FromSoftware games, was both a point of attraction and a source of frustration for some, but it ultimately contributed to the game's unique sense of accomplishment. The lore, co-created by George R.R. Martin, added a layer of depth and intrigue that kept players engaged and eager to unravel the mysteries of the Lands Between.
Horizon Forbidden West: Guerrilla Games continued Aloy's story in a breathtaking open world. The sequel promised improved combat, new machines, and a captivating narrative. Horizon Forbidden West captivated players with its stunning visuals and immersive world. The attention to detail in the environments, the intricate designs of the machines, and the fluid animations of Aloy made the game a visual masterpiece. The narrative expanded on the lore of the first game, introducing new tribes, new threats, and deeper insights into the past. The improved combat system allowed for more strategic and dynamic encounters with the machines, adding depth to the gameplay. The game's focus on exploration and discovery, combined with its compelling story, made it a strong contender for the title of most anticipated game.
God of War Ragnarök: Santa Monica Studio delivered a sequel that many fans had been waiting for years for. Kratos and Atreus faced their most challenging journey yet, with stunning visuals and a gripping narrative. God of War Ragnarök built upon the foundation of its predecessor, delivering a more mature and emotionally resonant story. The relationship between Kratos and Atreus was further explored, with both characters facing their own internal struggles and challenges. The combat system was refined, offering a more visceral and strategic experience. The game's stunning visuals and epic scope transported players to the heart of Norse mythology, making them feel like they were truly a part of the legend. The anticipation surrounding God of War Ragnarök was immense, and the game largely delivered on its promise, solidifying its place as one of the most anticipated titles of the year.

And the Winner Is...

Okay, drum roll please! Taking into account the overall hype, critical acclaim, and commercial success, the winner of the most anticipated game of 2022 is... Elden Ring!

FromSoftware's masterpiece captured the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. Its unique blend of challenging gameplay, intricate world design, and captivating lore made it an unforgettable experience. Elden Ring's open-world design allowed for unprecedented freedom and exploration, encouraging players to forge their own paths and discover hidden secrets. The game's difficulty, while initially daunting for some, ultimately contributed to a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that few other games could match. The collaboration with George R.R. Martin added a layer of depth and intrigue that kept players engaged and eager to unravel the mysteries of the Lands Between. The sheer scale and scope of Elden Ring were unlike anything seen before, making it a truly groundbreaking title. Its impact on the gaming industry was undeniable, influencing game design and setting a new standard for open-world action RPGs.

While Horizon Forbidden West and God of War Ragnarök were undoubtedly fantastic games, Elden Ring's sheer impact and innovation gave it the edge. It's a game that will be talked about for years to come, and its influence will be felt throughout the gaming industry. So, congratulations to FromSoftware for creating such a monumental and unforgettable gaming experience!

Why Elden Ring Took the Crown

So, what exactly made Elden Ring the most anticipated game of 2022? Let's break it down:

The FromSoftware pedigree: FromSoftware had already established a reputation for creating challenging and rewarding action RPGs with the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. This pedigree instilled confidence in gamers that Elden Ring would deliver a high-quality and engaging experience. The studio's commitment to challenging gameplay, intricate world design, and cryptic storytelling had cultivated a dedicated fanbase eager for their next project. Elden Ring represented the culmination of their experience and expertise, promising to take their signature style to new heights.
The George R.R. Martin collaboration: The involvement of George R.R. Martin, the author of the A Song of Ice and Fire series (Game of Thrones), added another layer of intrigue and excitement. Martin's reputation for creating complex and morally ambiguous characters and worlds aligned perfectly with FromSoftware's style. The collaboration between the two creative powerhouses generated a massive amount of buzz and speculation, drawing in fans of both gaming and literature. Martin's contribution to the lore and world-building of Elden Ring added a depth and richness that resonated with players, making the game's universe feel both familiar and entirely unique.
The open-world design: Unlike FromSoftware's previous games, Elden Ring featured a vast open world that players could explore at their own pace. This freedom and sense of discovery were a major draw for many gamers. The open world allowed players to stumble upon hidden areas, encounter challenging enemies, and uncover secrets at their own pace, creating a sense of adventure and exploration that was both rewarding and immersive. The sheer scale and scope of the Lands Between were unlike anything seen before in a FromSoftware game, offering players countless hours of gameplay and exploration.
The challenging gameplay: FromSoftware's games are known for their difficulty, and Elden Ring was no exception. However, the game's difficulty was balanced by a sense of fairness and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Overcoming challenging enemies and bosses required skill, strategy, and patience, but the feeling of triumph after a hard-fought victory was incredibly satisfying. The game's difficulty also encouraged players to learn from their mistakes and improve their skills, fostering a sense of growth and mastery.

Honorable Mentions

While Elden Ring took the top spot, it's important to acknowledge the other amazing games that were released in 2022. Horizon Forbidden West and God of War Ragnarök were both incredible titles that deserve recognition. These games pushed the boundaries of graphical fidelity, narrative storytelling, and gameplay mechanics. They offered players unforgettable experiences and contributed significantly to the gaming landscape in 2022.

Horizon Forbidden West: Guerrilla Games delivered a stunning sequel that expanded on the world and lore of the first game. The game's visuals were breathtaking, and the combat was improved, making it a must-play for fans of the original.
God of War Ragnarök: Santa Monica Studio concluded the Norse saga with an epic and emotionally resonant story. The game's characters were compelling, and the combat was brutal and satisfying.

These games, along with many others, made 2022 a truly remarkable year for gaming. While Elden Ring may have been the most anticipated, these titles deserve recognition for their contributions to the industry.

Looking Ahead

As we look ahead to the future of gaming, it's exciting to imagine what new and innovative experiences await us. The success of games like Elden Ring demonstrates the power of ambitious and creative game design. It encourages developers to take risks and push the boundaries of what's possible. The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and we can expect to see even more groundbreaking titles in the years to come. New technologies, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of gaming. We can also anticipate the rise of new genres and gameplay mechanics that will challenge and surprise us. The future of gaming is bright, and it's exciting to be a part of this ever-evolving industry.

So there you have it, folks! Elden Ring took home the crown for most anticipated game of 2022. What were your favorite games of 2022? Let us know in the comments below!