Adam’s Favourite iPad Games

I got an iPad around a year ago, and it’s quickly become my most used and beloved console yet. Although I assume I’ll continue to be a fan of Nintendo for a while, using the iPad has opened up a whole new world for me, and it feels as wonderful as a magic carpet ride. From the 69p games to the premium Square games, I’ve found tons of games to be busy with, and I know that I’ve barely scratched the surface for what the platform has to offer. Therefore, indulge me for a moment, as I list the thirty iOS games that I’ve especially loved, with a key factor being how they offer something unique to the platform.

So here’s the list! There’s no order, because the list of games I played over the last year is a big one, around 30 games I think! Hope you enjoy!

 

Knightmare Tower

‘Just one more go’ is a dangerous quote to say to yourself, especially when it comes to iPad games. The thought always enters the back of your mind when you least expect it, and Knightmare Tower became that one game I couldn’t stop playing. The simple yet brilliant gameplay was something that gave me the power to feel like I was getting better and stronger, while also ramping up the difficulty. The visual aesthetic is also something I was attracted to, where the overly cartoony  designs were always lovely to look at. Here’s a game that I really enjoyed, and will probably work my way through again in the near future.

GTA: Vice City

There’s nothing better for me than to just relax on a beach and listen to some Judas Priest. Or Hall and Oates. Or Toto. Or Gary Numan. Basically, GTA: Vice City is my fave GTA game in part because of the 80s aesthetic, where everything is either hot pink or neon purple, and the radio stations are blasting Iron Maiden. Of course, Vice City also has the best cast of characters, the most fun missions (except for those ones where fly a remote controlled thing), and the most creative writing and voice acting. Tommy Vercetti is a brilliant creation, and represents nearly everything I want in a GTA character. The iOS port isn’t without it’s problems, with the controls being the biggest issue, but everything you want from a GTA game is there, and it’s just as good as it ever was.

 

Terraria/The Blockheads

As much as I adore Minecraft, the Pocket Edition on iPad just doesn’t do it for me right now. Maybe it needs more updates, some controller support, maybe even some technically upgrades. However, right now I just can’t get into it, at least until some serious updates happen. Despite this, I feel as if there’s plenty of options available for iPad people who wanna punch trees, and those games are the iOS centric ‘The Blockheads’, and the PC port ‘Terraria’. Both games are here because they both made serious alterations to the Minecraft formula so that each game is great fun, and not hampered by terrible controls, or a lack of things to do. Each game focuses on different parts of the formula, with Blockheads having a Sims-like hunger/warmth/etc meter for each individual block person, while Terraria places more of a focus on fighting and RPG-style progression, which is assisted by the transition to 2D sprites.

Angry Birds: Star Wars

I love Angry Birds. There, I said it. It’s a franchise that’s everywhere right now, but I see that exposure as a testament to the success of adorable mascots, as well as new ideas in games. Sure, there may have been a case of saturation with the characters, seeing as they appear on everything from T-Shirts, Lunchboxes, Coffee Mugs, Theme Park Rides, whatever. Yes, the gameplay is as simple as you can get, and was probably done better through different Online Flash games. However, this is a game franchise that excelled at offering people a fun little game with cute and cuddly characters, which happened to capture the public’s imagination. As long as I enjoy myself when playing the games, whether it’s the vehicle building sim that is ‘Bad Piggies’, or even the gravity focused ‘Angry Birds Space’, there’s nothing more satisfying than flinging a little bird at a load of wooden planks and screaming pigs. I picked out the Star Wars game because no matter what, it still boggles my mind, and I love looking at each Stormtrooper having little snouts and pig ears.

 

Zen Pinball

I enjoy several pinball games, but the pinball series I fell in love with was Zen Pinball. First time I got it was through Playstation Plus, and I loved how close each table got to using a real pinball table. Not only that, but each table was interesting and varied, meaning I’d get Zen Pinball on numerous other devices, such as 3DS and even iPad. With the iPad version, I got to see the game at it’s very best, with constant updates and DLC to keep me busy, So far, my fave table is the Star Wars V: Empire Strikes Back one, with it’s constant action and flashy visuals. However, each table clearly had a lot of effort and detail put into it, and it’s something that makes the game as fun and enjoyable as possible. Here, we can see how DLC can enhance the experience, as apposed to take away parts to be sold later, and I’m more than happy to trust Zen Studios in the future to deliver quality Pinball tables through DLC.

 

Super Hexagon

One thing I love about iPad games are the simpleness of most of the stand out games, as well as the hidden complexities. Of all the games to showcase this concept of ‘simple, but difficult’, it’s Super Hexagon, one of the most infuriating yet fun games to come out. Made by the creator of VVVVVV, you can see similar ideas of simple controls matched with an immense difficulty, where the challenge is never unfair, but the game is still as hard as possible. When you get a Game Over, you can instantly try again, meaning that it’s easy to just keep trying and trying until you can clearly see yourself getting better, meaning that you get an instant feeling of progression and advancement. This system has allowed the game to gain widespread acclaim, and the portability of the iPad means I can stick to the game for as long as I need, which may be several hours at a time. 

 

The Room

A box on a table in the middle of the room that needs opening. Such a simple concept, and I’ve dedicated so much time to unraveling this mystery. A great example of getting your money’s worth from an iPad game, it may not take long to complete, but the Room offers an intriguing and memorable puzzle to solve. It uses the same puzzle-solving mechanics that other games in its genre have, where the puzzles are all intricately designed and presented to make sure that the game is challenging, but never impossible to finish. The little moments where you solve a bit of a puzzle all build up towards the final goal of opening the box, and it was something I couldn’t stop playing until the end. It’s a good thing my obsession is about to start again with the release of ‘The Room Two’…

 

Super Crate Box

I hate it I love it I hate it I love it I hate love hate love hate love. These are just some of the thoughts going through my head when playing Super Crate Box, a wonderfully designed arcade game from Vlambeer. You shoot the monsters while grabbing the crates, which each have different weapons to use. This is such a simple game, but it adds to the number of iPad games that are simple to play but hard to master, which is something I’m enjoying seeing more from games. The art-style is wonderful, the music is catchy, and the gameplay is never unfair, even if you spend a good chunk of your time swearing at the game. A wonderful game, made by wonderful people who seem to want me to do nothing but shout at my iPad.

 

Fruit Ninja

Everyone seems to ‘get’ Fruit Ninja. You see the fruit, you slice it. Such a simple concept, and yet its something I always find myself playing every now and then. This easy ‘pick up and play’ concept means that the game is always satisfying, and showing it to a new player is never difficult or complicated, what with the game being best explained through it’s title. However, it’s a game that I’ve always enjoyed, and couldn’t imagine not having on my iPad at all times, whether it’s to pass the time or to really get invested in. Basically, it’ a game where you slice fruit like a ninja. What’s not to love?

 

Ridiculous Fishing

Vlambeer have proven to be masters of the concept ‘Simple to play, hard to master’. Games like the previously mentioned Super Crate Box, Luftrausers and Nuclear Throne have amassed plenty of fans, and Ridiculous Fishing shows what happens when one of the most ingenious indie developers in the industry makes full use of tablets.The interesting artstyle is just one of the innovations, with the gameplay being the right level of challenging and fun to always feel like a game of skill. The gratification you get from shooting a large ton of fish into oblivion is always a laugh as well, wand it helps serve as a companion piece to the more calm and structured hook-diving stages. The game itself is also loaded with charm, from the ‘Byrdr’ Twitter parody, to the different upgrades that can assist and impress you.

 

Boson X

Remember when I gushed about Super Hexagon? What about all the other auto-runners I adored? Boson X feels like a combination that works in the best possible way. The idea is to keep running and jumping forward, dodging the incoming walls and obstacles, in order to get to 100% completion. Like other games of it’s genre, it’s a fun exercise in frustration  and enjoyment, where the challenge is in how you can beat your previous high score, while the game never punishes you for failing. The vector-esque style is also great to look at, and the distinct use of colours are what make it stand out.

 

Plants Vs. Zombies

The Zombies are coming, so you place the plants to attack the zombies. Of all the PopCap games to capture people’s imaginations, it’s easy to see why the wonderful looking zombies and plants have gotten as big as they have. This is a simple strategy game that allows all players to instantly understand it’s rules, and instantly start having fun with the brilliant looking designs, the quickness of each round, and the freedom in which players can complete the game. Here, each victory feels earned, as a testament to the player’s quick thinking, with the game offering new ideas in the form of new weapons as a reward. Overall, a great game that’s been remembered as a key part of its genre.

 

Sonic The Hedgehog

Most of the ports I buy are usually good despite the iPad, as apposed to these games being improved by the iPad. This usually means a voice in the back of my mind is going on about how the touch screen controls don’t really work, or the limitations of the device mean I can’t play it properly, even if the game is great. However, the port of Sonic the Hedgehog onto iOS is such a masterclass in how to convert a game to iPad, any complaints about controls and such quickly get ignored. The game plays just as well on the iPad as it did when the original was released on the Mega Drive, and it looks and sounds even better as well. Not only this, but there are substantial upgrades to the game, with the control mechanics from Sonic 2 being used, and the ability to play as Tails and Knuckles despite neither character existing before this game. It stands as one of the greatest ports ever seen, and it’s something I’d recommend to everyone.

 

Game Dev Story

I’ve been playing Game Dev Tycoon recently, which I’ve been having fun with. However, there’s always a nagging voice at the back of my head saying that Game Dev Story was a lot more fun and charming, and I think it’s a certain kind of magic Kairosoft specialise in. It may be the cute pixel graphics, it may be the simplistic approach to organising a game company, or even the sweet references to gaming history. However, what kept me playing Game Dev Story for ages was it’s brilliant sense of progression, where learning what combinations were best became something I’d look forward to with each play-through. There’s nothing more satisfying than choosing the right genre and style, picking the right people for the right job, deciding on the right platform and audience, then releasing your latest masterpiece for the world to enjoy.

 

Organ Trail: Director’s Cut

Do people still like Zombies? It feels like they’ve been around forever, and people have run out of ways to make them interesting. However, I can always appreciate any new ideas shown, such as this fusing of the Oregon Trail and the classic Zombie concept. The game shows how an old game can be enhanced not only with suitable subject matter, but also with a decent sense of humour about itself. All aspects of both Oregon Trail and the Zombie genre are poked fun at, and the game itself is consistently entertaining.

 

Rayman Jungle Run

One of my favourite platformers from the previous generation was Rayman Origins, which re-introduced the character in a brilliantly drawn and animated 2D side-scroller with more imagination and challenge than most of it’s competitors. When it comes to the iPad spinoff, the magic is still there, except the auto-runner genre is the perfect companion to an art-style that is both beautiful and imaginative. The complexities of the levels mean that the game can be both fun and challenging, with the charm that was evident in Rayman Origins being successfully translated into this new iOS interpretation.

 

Death Rally

Top Down Racing games seem to work really well on large tablets, with games such as Reckless Racing offering an experience that transcends the genre. However, I remember Death Rally from way back, so the remake was right up my alley. The controls are responsive and well implemented into the iPad screen, and the visuals always look great. The steady progression of your car is always noticeable, and the different variations you could have mean there are plenty of ways to find your own way of playing the game. The game was made by Remedy, the developers of Alan Wake and the upcoming Quantum Break, showing how even developers used to making large detailed games can benefit from testing what sort of games iPad can do.

 

McPixel

This game became a particular favourite for people making Let’s Plays, and it’s easy to see why. The brilliant use of pixel graphics as an art-style, the basic gameplay, and the subversive humour. It feels like an anti-Point and Click game, where there’s no rhyme or reason to anything, and experimentation is the key to success. Such a game works wonderfully on the iPad, where I just found myself clicking on anything not just to see if I could complete the puzzle, but also just to see what crazy reaction I could get, as the unpredictable nature of the game showed a great example of how comedy can be done right in a videogame. 

 

Chu Chu Rocket

I remember this being the first Dreamcast game I played, as a young lad whose only previous console was the Nintendo 64. As a puzzle game, it was a sweet, challenging way of using your brain, with clear goals and paths. Thankfully, the iPad has proven to be a brilliant place to put puzzle games, with touch controls offering an all new way of interacting with the game, and Chu Chu Rocket shows how this can be done especially well. The touch based controls just seem to fit perfectly with the slow and steady pace of the game, where moves don’t need rapid reactions, but instead benefit from a calculated, thought out response. It was fun when it was on the Dreamcast, and I believe the game is even better on the iPad.

 

Lili

I have an iPad 4, and although it’s not the most stellar graphical powerhouse anymore, it still can impress me with some outstanding visuals and technology. This is shown through games like XCOM: Enemy Unknown, which I still believe was ported through witchcraft, or even Pac-Man, which I reckon looks fantastic in all its pixely glory on the large iPad screen. However, Lili serves as a great representation for what the console is capable of, with the Wind Waker meets Studio Ghibli art-style being enhanced with the technical capabilities of the iPad showing one of the most visually pleasant games I’ve played recently. The gameplay is also fun, with the relaxed pace being matched with the fun action bits,

 

Machinarium

Point and Click Adventure Games are important to me, and I’ve amassed a good collection of them on the iPad. From Broken Sword to Monkey Island, I’ve been able to enjoy a variety of both classic games and new releases, with Telltale showing a great level of support for the iPad. However, I always enjoy bringing up Machinarium in Best Of Lists, so here it is! The atmosphere, the designs, the puzzles, the creativity, it’s all made better by the iPad’s touch-based control system, which is comparable to even playing the game on the PC. If you haven’t experienced this yet, now’s as good a time as any to get going.

 

Mikey Shorts

As lovely as I think platformers can be on the iPad, the lack of any proper buttons is something I have to deal with. Hopefully, an affordable iOS7 controller will come out soon for iPad, but until then, virtual joysticks and buttons aren’t going to be that great a replacement. However, there are some games that transcend the control limitations, and Mikey Shorts is a fantastic example. A fast paced, well presented and easily digested game, it makes quick reactions and other forms of platforming to become a great example of how to make the genre work on a buttonless console.

 

Peggle

The beautiful thing about Peggle is that it seems to be perfect on every console I’ve played it on. I’ve gone through it on PC, I’ve loved it on iPod Touch, and now my favourite version of the game is on the iPad. The visuals look fantastic on the iPad’s retina screen, the feeling of accomplishment and exaltation is something that is unique to this game, and the experience is made all the better on the iPad. The crisp retina display, the ease in which you can pick up and play the game bits at a time, the touch controls, it all adds to an experience that has to be played.

 

Raiden: Legacy

Another classic genre to be enhanced by the addition of touch controls is the famous ‘Schmup’ genre, which developers such as CAVE and DotEmu have been keeping alive. The touch controls that tablets offer seem to be well suited to the shooting genre, where the player’s finger can direct the ship, which is autoshooting. This can be seen in the example I’m giving here, a collection of several games from the Raiden series. Here, the challenge is always matched by the fun in each game, and the controls and presentation of the iPad show how the genre can benefit from tablets. Although games like Deathsmiles and the DonPachi serie show a similar level of expertise and creativity, the value and accessibility of Raiden Legacy are what make it stand out for me.

 

Happy Street

Ah, freemium. A word that sends a chill down my spine every time I see those monotonous city building games that rely on gems, coins, timers, patience, or cold hard cash. Keeping this in mind, it was wonderful to find an example of the genre that didn’t seem like a cynical cash-grab, and instead played more like a 2D Animal Crossing game, with a focus on the city building aspect.  The sense of humour, the colourful and inventive artstyle, and the brilliant use of game theory to enhance the game, not abuse the trust of the player, mean that the game stands as great example of how to make a game for iOS. I almost wish it could be put on other consoles, but it feels like the kind of game that could only work on phones and tablets, where players have instant access to it. 

 

Infinity Blade

This game was the big thing that people either saw as proof that ‘hardcore’ games were possible on iOS, or the proof that ‘hardcore’ games could never work on iOS. For me, it was a fun little game that reminded me of Punch Out!! in ways, with an interesting story and decent gameplay mechanics. The whole live system is also what got be interested in the franchise, where the death of your character leads a son to take your place decades later. It also manages to integrate this lives mechanic into the progression of each character, where lessons learnt and experience gained reveal this framing device to be surprisingly welcome.

 

Canabalt

Ah, the auto-runner genre. If there’s something iOS is happy to show off, it’s this. The easy controls, the freedom for creative art-styles, and the genius innovations that it could be integrated into the gameplay, it’s no wonder why this genre is the most popular amongst iOS developers. For me, nothing can beat what may be one of the first auto-runners to gain widespread popularity, and that has everything to do with how simple it seems. It plays almost like an arcade game, except with a distinctive artstyle and a pounding soundtrack by DannyB. A classic game in the history of indie games, it plays wonderfully on the iPad, where the single action means that the player can instantly react to whatever is in the way.

 

Gunman Clive

Sometimes, the presentation of a game can do wonders for it, and make me play games I never would have thought of playing. Gunman Clive’s hand-drawn, comic book style was something that attracted me to it, and I loved playing the game ever since. It plays like Mega Man, it looks like a Lucky Luke comic, and it’s great fun. The ease in which you can play the game gives the player every chance to instantly understand what obstacles do what, how enemies react and attack, as well as what levels operate by which rules. This is a game that takes the lessons in Game Design that Mega Man introduced, and utilises them to make a lovely old-school homage.

 

Worms 3

Ever since I was a young lad, I remember having Worms installed on my PC in some form or another. It’s the ultimate party game, and is a regular staple in any video-game night. The latest version of the classic franchise on tablets is Worms 3, which utilises the class system from Worms Revolution, as well as other new innovations. However, it’s been perfect for my iPad, as the pass-and-play mechanics that have always worked so well with Worms are matched by the large iPad screen. Once again, Worms is a multiplayer tour-de-force, and serves as a welcome addition to the number of local multiplayer games that excel on the iPad.

 

New Star Soccer

For a while, this was the time-waster of choice. A decision to just play one game would turn into an entire half-season, without me quite understanding where the transition happened. I guess there’s something I love about this simplified version of Football, where the only skill needed is the ability to kick a ball every now and then. This allowed me to just focus on the clear instructions given, and not have to worry about any intricate rules to football, such as what the hell the offside rule is. Same goes for the rest of the life-management stuff, where you have to maintain training as well as your lifestyle and other needs. Overall, it’s a fun game, one that could last people a good long while.

 That’s the list! I hope to play even more great games into the new year, with my time already being invested in GTA: San Andreas, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, The Room Two, Angry Birds Go!, Dropchord, More Peggle…….

Adam Reviews: Frozen (2013)

If I hadn’t written my top 15 list only a few days ago, I would DEFINITELY have included Frozen somewhere in the top 3. I’ve always been a fan of Disney films, whether live-action, animated, musical, dramatic, comedic, whatever. I’ve loved them since I was a young lad watching them over and over on my VHS tapes, and always saw any cinema release as a momentous occasion. As such, I’ve always been interested in watching Disney films, and recently they’ve been terrific. Tangled was a great way of showing how the traditional Disney Princess film can be updated with new technology and modern sensibilities, and Princess and the Frog was another great throwback to the glory days of Disney, complete with a phenomenal Jazz soundtrack by Randy Newman. Other films, such as Wreck-It-Ralph and Winnie the Pooh, were also of such a high-caliber that I’ve anticipated any new developments ever since (Unless those developments happened to involve Johnny Depp in a stupid hat). With Frozen, not only does it show that Disney are back on form, but they’re constantly improving. Frozen could be considered just as excellent as other seminal works such as The Lion King, or Beauty and the Beast, and is definitely the best traditional Princess film since Mulan.

The story revolves around two sisters from a Scandinavian Royal Family, Elsa and Anna. Elsa has ice powers, which are shown to be unstable when she accidentally injures her sister, leading to her being scared of her powers. The family decide to isolate themselves from the world so that no-one can get the wrong idea about Elsa, and view her as a ice-throwing monster. However, this leaves two different problems: Anna’s injury is healed, but she has two forget that her sister has Ice Powers. Meanwhile, Elsa becomes afraid of hurting her sister again, and as such isolates herself from Anna. This all comes to a head during the coronation ceremony of Elsa several years later, where her powers are revealed, and all those misinterpretations and misunderstandings all leave her heartbroken. A run up to a mountain later, she creates an Ice Palace to be alone in, but accidentally creates an everlasting winter in her kingdom, meaning Anna has to go talk to her and convince her to help save the day.

As you can see, it’s a bit all over the place, plotting wise. I haven’t even gotten to the Prince whom Anna instantly falls in love with, the representatives of different countries who all have different motivations surrounding Queen Elsa, Kristoph the Ice Seller and his dog-like Reindeer Sven with their extended family, and Olaf the Magical Snowman. All these different plot points are going on, and it can get a bit daunting at times. However, it all feels naturally connected, despite the packed nature of it all. Although another problem with this hectic plotting is that sometimes, it feels as if the film needed a few more minutes or songs to breath. Certain character’s goals and motivations get lost in the shuffle, and although it’s never distracting, there may be some occasions where you feel like the story is speeding up a bit too much.

Now that’s over with, let’s get to the good stuff. The film looks damn amazing, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Disney film look this beautiful before. This isn’t just in the 3D-animated technology, but the artistic style and presentation of the clear snow mountains, the blue ice castles, the crowds of people and the numerous character styles. This is a film that shows how Disney have evolved in a way that allows for the creativity of hand-drawn animation, but also the scope and epic feel that new technology can offer. The characters look as if they could be made in any form of animation, and would still be fantastic to look at, and the same goes for the rest of the scenery and settings. Another big change between Frozen, and also Tangled, and previous Disney films is the seemingly bigger influence that Broadway has had on them. ____, the song writer from Avenue Q and The Book of Mormon, gives several characters huge, bombastic moments to sing as hard and loud as they can, which is something I love. The big song sung by Elsa called ‘Let it Go’ is an especially noteworthy moment from the film, and wouldn’t look out-of-place in any big musical production. Special mentions in this regard should go to _____ and ______, both well-known Broadway performers who both give it their all in their respective songs.

There’s also the Snowman character. Olaf was in all the advertising and all the commercials for the film, and I feared the worst from him. However, I was pleasantly surprised, as he works as a comic relief character that doesn’t get annoying. He get’s a fun song, some funny lines, and is never overused or pushed to the centre of the screen. However, what makes this movie work in a way that no other Disney film has done before are the princesses themselves. If Anna and Elsa aren’t the best possible interpretations of Disney Princesses yet, they’re still at the top of the list. They both light up the screen every time they’re on, and could go on as some of my favourite characters in all of Disney. First off, Anna is presented as naive, yet light-hearted and fun, with Kristen Bell constantly giving her all in a role that requires numerous different mood-swings and situations. If Anna represents how clever and inventive the animation and writing can be, then Elsa can be seen as the emotional heart of the story. Her story of fear and isolation shows a level of tragedy that manages to distinguish it from other interpretations of the Snow Queen. The way in which the character is written is a testament to why the Disney Princess films are so admired, with Elsa probably on her way to joining Belle, Mulan and Jasmine as some of the more celebrated characters in the line of Disney Princesses.

Overall, I’d definitely recommend everyone go to see Frozen, especially if you have kids or remember the glory days of Disney in the 90s or before. The future of Disney Animated features seems very bright, with films such as this and Wreck-It-Ralph, Tangled, and others showing that Disney can keep the successes going again. As a Christmas-period Family film, it shows what makes Disney stand out, and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Special Mention: The short film that’s shown before 3D viewings of the film is also a fantastic mixing of tradition and technology. It’s a new Mickey Mouse short, but done in a way I wouldn’t want to give a way. So make sure you watch it in 3D, as this film is a brilliant time on its own.

AdamOwenFTW: Top 15 Films of 2013

I watched a lot of films this year. From dramatic musicals like Les Miserables to action blockbusters like Man of Steel, there were plenty of impressive moments to behold this year. Although I was disappointed by some anticipated releases, there were enough films I enjoyed to come up with a top ten list, and I believe it fully encapsulates what I loved most about the year. Here are the films that made the biggest impression on me, and rocked my socks off with either their general awesomeness, or brilliant filmmaking. Some films were released in 2012 in the US, but 2013 in UK, so keep that in mind for some of them. On we go!

Please note: There were a few films I didn’t watch at the time of writing, which may end up on the list at some point. This includes films like Walter Mitty, Frozen, Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, most of this season’s Oscar films, or Anchorman 2, so this list may not be exactly the same when the year is over.

15. The Wolverine

I don’t consider myself that big a comics fan, but of all the characters in both Marvel and DC that I like, Wolverine was always a favourite of mine. World-weary, at times brutal, yet honourable at heart, Wolverine stories have become famous due to the versatile and varied representations of him, and the X-Men films got that right more than it got it wrong. After an Origin film that stank as bad as possible, ‘The Wolverine’ uses one of the most famous settings in Wolverine history to tell a personal, smaller story than most other Superhero films. This is a film that allows Hugh Jackman, the definitive Wolverine for our time, to give a great performance that doesn’t have to share the screen with an entire cast of mutants (X-Men Trilogy), or spend an entire film hampered by bad material (Origins: Wolverine).

The Japan backdrop is something that’s never entirely made use of, but it still means that the film looks like no other film of its kind, and I hope that more films can use it. The mixture between Modern and Traditional settings are always beautiful to look at, and the cultural aspects of Japan are given enough space to make an impression. The story of Logan as the Ronin (the samurai without a master) is something I’ve looked forward to, and the film does a great job using the previous experiences of Logan in the films to have the film become a character study, one which is mostly faithful and respectful of the Wolverine that became a cultural icon. I’d agree that the ending fights and twists become grating, but considering the mystery and intrigue of the story, it’s something I can still enjoy. I look forward to watching this again, especially in the run up to ‘Days of Future Past’.

14. Evil Dead

Horror films had a sort of renaissance in 2013, with James Wan giving us expertly made films such as ‘The Conjuring’ and ‘Insidious Part 2’, as well as film’s such as ‘You’re Next’ showing that modern Horror films can still evolve and impress. Another film that managed to impress was the remake of ‘Evil Dead’, which was a brilliant re-imagining of the well-known classic. The film shows that gratuitously gory, genuinely creepy horror films of the traditional style can still exist in a post ‘Cabin in the Woods’ landscape, despite the tropes and clichés of the genre being more than accounted for.

The problem with trying to replace a character as definitive and influential as Ash Williams is admirably subverted by not having anyone fill the void of the character, meaning each character has a chance to offer something different, even if some of them can be forgettable. The idea of the trip to an isolated cabin with no means of contact with modern society is also given an interesting twist, with one of the group of young adults trying to go cold turkey after a heroin overdose, and her friends acting as carers. When this plan goes wrong, the blood and gore goes into full swing, with one scene literally raining down with the stuff. It’s certainly one of the most explicit horror films in recent years in terms of violence, but unlike the overtly brutality of ‘torture-porn’ films such as Hostel, it’s fantastical enough to be enjoyed, rather than be too disgusted at.

13. Fast and Furious 6

The Fast and Furious franchise was something I didn’t expect to enjoy, what with ironic appreciation being something I never usually give to big-budget action films. The first film was alright as a pulpy undercover crime film with a street racing backdrop, and I was never interested enough in the premise to watch the sequels, 2 Fast 2 Furious or Tokyo Drift. I watched Fast and Furious, and it was boring as all get out. When I heard everyone was talking about how great the fifth film in the series was, I sighed and wished people would stop pretending to enjoy things that were obviously rubbish. However, I did end up watching it, and understood what made it an exceptional action film amidst a sea of similar, dull action fodder: The action was ramped up, the characters had a chemistry that was clearly developed over time, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson was a more than capable foil to the main cast of street-racing people, and everything just felt like it was a really great time.

Fast and Furious 6 continues this feeling of elevation, with the actors assuming we’re already aware of their backstories and motivations as to get on with the brilliant car chases, the expertly directed and arranged set-pieces, as well as the numerous fight scenes that are performed by people at the top of their game. This is a franchise that has been given the freedom to be confident in it’s own capabilities, and has used that freedom to excel in ways that most action movies of its kind would struggle with.

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12. The Great Gatsby

I love classic literature, so hearing about a Great Gatsby film directed by Baz Luhrmann, director of Moulin Rouge and Romeo + Juliet, seemed like something I at the very least had to see for myself. In fact, I went to this film with my mother, who for the first time ever had to watch a film in 3D. While she wasn’t as happy with the film as I was, it shows how subjective this particular interpretation of the original text can be, as well as how distinctive it is. The grandiose presentation, the thumping soundtrack, the overall exaggeration, it all adds up to a film about excess, where every party is attended by everyone in town, and our narrator is there to witness it all.

All this style, is there any room for substance? The framing device of a depressed Nick Carraway in an institution reminiscing the story works well, and each actor is believable as the screen representation of the characters from the novel. However, the movie itself does come across as a very abridged and literal take on the text, with characters not entirely done justice. Daisy in particular isn’t as well rounded or explained as the book allowed, and the film is constantly threatening to go completely off the rails at any point. It’s a similar problem that I felt Les Miserables had, where in adapting a large, complex work, there were always going to be things lost in translation. However, what we are shown is a blistering interpretation that has never been attempted before, and offers up a great starting point of discussion.

11. Oz: The Great and Powerful

Of all the films I hated during its release, Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland stands as one of the films I spent the entire time just being sad at. It was well acted, well designed, and beautiful to look at, but the story and script were both boring and terrible, which is something I felt especially betrayed by. I usually love Tim Burton films, and can even forgive most of his misfires, but something as wonderful and imaginative as Alice in Wonderland being reduced to yet another ‘Hero with a Thousand Faces’ yarn, and an awful one at that, was something I couldn’t stand. This meant that when I heard of a new film based on the Wizard of Oz was being made with the same sort of presentation and look as Alice in Wonderland, my heart sank, and I went to the film expecting to doze off half-way through. Thank goodness for low expectations though, because this film ended up being a very pleasant surprise.

Like Alice in Wonderland, it’s well acted and designed from the very beginning, with James Franco being more than fine as the titular Oz, and the supporting cast each being given their stand-out moments, especially Mila Kunis as the Good Witch Theodora. It’s a beautiful film to look at too, with the world of Oz looking better than it ever has. The emerald city is a wonder to behold, especially in 3D, and the numerous environments and fantastical characters are impressive, with Zach Braff as a flying monkey being a standout character. However, what impressed me was how the story was allowed to be one that fully suited the original Wizard of Oz film, and could be considered as a more than appreciated prequel to the well-known classic. As someone who still loves the original classic film, I saw this prequel as one of the rare instances where it could enhance, not take away from, the original film, even if the development of certain characters feels rushed and out of place, or particular instances of the plot feel forced. I’d describe ‘Oz: The Great and Powerful’ as flawed, but I still enjoyed it, from Danny Elfman’s fantastic score to the brilliant finale that comes across as ingenious when compared to most films of its kind.

10. Elysium

Dystopian Sci-Fi may have peaked during the 1970s, but I always appreciate seeing a new interpretation of the concept in cinemas. Whether it’s the fantastical damnation of bureaucracy in Brazil, or the moral standpoint on the direction Humanity is headed in Planet of the Apes. In Elysium, we see the director of District 9 (Itself a brilliant interpretation of segregation and prejudice) turn his attention to social separation, as well as the current political time-bomb of universal health care. Science Fiction has always been a brilliant method of talking about current issues that affect the world, and we can see how great such a genre is through films like this, where a viewpoint is brilliantly and effectively portrayed, as well as integrated into a brilliant action movie.

Actors such as Matt Damon and Jodie Foster are fine in their respective roles, but it’s Sharlto Copley, who was brilliant in District 9, who leaves the biggest impression as the villain of the film. The variety that this actor can offer is something that is rare in the industry, and I hope he can give even more brilliant performances in the future. The cinematography is also exceptional, with the world being a brilliantly designed dystopia, while the ship Elysium itself is a master class in futuristic design and extravagance.

9. The World’s End

I went into this film expecting to love it, what with my affection for Edgar Wright’s previous work on Scott Pilgrim, Spaced, and the other films in the ‘Cornetto Trilogy’. What I wasn’t expecting was to consider The World’s End as the defining moment in the series, with it being the funniest, most exciting as well as the best written film so far. There’s so much denseness in its themes and iconography, I feel as if I re-watch this film a dozen times, and still get as much out of it as I did when re-watching Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Instead of the well-worn horror parody of Shaun, or the exhilarating action in Hot Fuzz, we instead look at the tropes and iconography of classic science fiction, with particular films such as Invasion of the Body Snatchers being especially noticeable.

Simon Pegg and Nick Frost both give career-best performances, with their roles as friends separated by past injustices as well as different aims and goals in the future allowing for both actors to venture into different territories as actors. The supporting cast is as memorable and brilliant as in previous films, with surprise cameos being especially important. The film was also designed to especially appeal to film-lovers like myself, with each frame seemingly designed to include as many thematic references and shout-outs as possible. One small issue I have with the film is the lack of time for Rosamund Pike to be on screen, what with her character standing out as a particularly impressive character among the ‘Lad’s Night Out’ from hell. However, this is something I’m confident deleted scenes can help with, which means I’d recommend everyone go and buy the DVD for this now. Go on. I’ll wait.

Please read Footnote (b)

8. Django Unchained

Quentin Tarantino directing a Western? Don’t mind if I do! Like most other people in this world, watching a Tarantino film is an experience, which means that they’re always anticipated. All the signs towards it being good were there: A genre Tarantino has openly been enamoured with, a cast of actors that are at the top of their game, A brutal subject matter that gets torn open, and Leonardo Dicaprio in one of his greatest performances yet. After films such as Kill Bill and Death Proof seemed as if his magic was lost, this and Inglourious Basterds have shown there there’s plenty more ways in which Tarantino can reinvent a genre. This film started off the year for me, and ended up being one of my favourite Tarantino films of all time.

It’s a story about revenge, but done with such style and flair that you can just take in the atmosphere, as well as the typically well written script. This new interpretation of Django is one the defining characters of recent years, and Jamie Foxx does it justice with a fantastic performance. Christoph Waltz also impresses, as does Samuel L. Jackson in a role that terrifies as much as it leaves an impact. Any problems? You can tell Tarantino wanted to make this a double bill, like he did with Kill Bill. There seems to be an entire second act missing, but apparently there’s a comic book series that details that, so I’ll check that out later. Also, Tarantino needs to stop giving himself speaking roles. Sorry, but it’s distracting. Stop it. Now.

7.Wreck-It-Ralph

Delayed in the UK as to be released during the financially lucrative school spring half term holiday period, this is one of the most brilliant new Disney films to ever be released. The video-game references alone are worth any gamer’s time, with affection being given to the Arcade days of old, as well as the modern era of video-games. Everywhere you look, there’ll be all sorts of references to classic franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Street Fighter II, Mortal Kombat, Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy, Super Mario, the list goes on and on. the first fifteen minutes alone are filled with nearly every notable character you could think of, from Q*Bert to Dig-Dug. The affectionate parodies of numerous other video-game elements are also brilliantly done, with everything from arcade games to modern shooting games being referenced and subverted in a way any video-game fan can laugh at.

However, if you come for the video-game nostalgia trip, you’ll stay for one of the funniest, most heart-warming partnerships ever seen in a Disney film. The relationship between the eager-for-approval Ralph and inexperienced racer Vanellope is the main focus of the film, with everything built around them, and the film does everything to make you care about both of them in equal measure. The decision to spend most of the movie on scenes where the relationship is built may seem odd considering how much people would want a film filled with references, but the excellent writing more than makes up for it. In a film about outcasts, it was nice to see two characters connect in such a way. The majority of the world is set in the candy-themed Mario Kart world, and it serves as a great visual treat to look at. Other standout characters include Jane Lynch as a Samus/ Commander Shepard-like marine, as well as Alan Tudyk as the Mad Hatter influenced King of the Candy World. But the film belongs to John C. Reilly as the titular Wreck-It-Ralph, who is always sympathetic when he needs to be.

Special mention should also go out to the short film that came before the film, ‘Paperman’, was exceptionally beautiful, and something I’d recommend people watch whether or not it comes before Wreck-It-Ralph’. The beauty and sophistication of the animation is matched by the magical realism of the story, and it’s something I hope can be a bigger influence on other Disney films.

6. Stoker

Simple thrillers can be easily watched and forgotten, and I’ve seen enough of them in the Straight-to-DVD section of stores to believe this. However, it’s good to watch a master of the genre elevate the material into something outright fascinating, with brilliant performances from all involved. From the director of Oldboy, this was an example of how to do it right, almost to the point where I can only hope the remake of Oldboy can be even half as exciting and brutal as this.

Based around the aftermath of the death of a father, the majority of the story is set in the large house where a grieving mother and daughter are introduced to an unknown uncle in the family, one who is immediately charming and almost too good to be true. The mysteries and unknown revelations surrounding all the characters, however, are nothing compared to that of India, the lead character of the film played by a very impressive Mia Wasikowska. The twists and turns the film undergoes surrounding the relationships between India and her family members are something to behold, and are a testament to the film’s style and presentation that such a film can seem entirely new, despite its traditional Hitchcockian tendencies. It really feels like a classic film lost in time, with modern sensibilities elevating it to something everyone who enjoys such films should really consider watching.

5. Iron Man 3

My choice for Superhero film of the year is getting increasingly difficult as the years go by, with the slate getting bigger and better each year. As audiences flock to these films, it’s brilliant to see the imaginative and detailed worlds of DC/Marvel comic books being brought to life in ways that would have been considered impossible only a decade ago.

Iron Man 3 represents the evolution of the genre in film, and a fantastic way to start ‘Phase 2’ of Marvel’s line of Superhero films. At this point, every recurring actor has refined their performance to exceptional levels, with Robert Downey Jr. giving a career-best performance as Tony Stark. The direction of Shane Black also appears to have made a considerable difference to the franchise, with his dry wit being an almost perfect counterpart to the larger action set-pieces. The use of source material from the comics such as Extremis and The Mandarin are reimagined in ways that are well suited to the current Marvel Cinematic Universe, while the film itself never feels like it’s hampered or bogged down by the overwhelming nature of the Marvel Universe. It’s a solo Iron Man story, where he’s at his weakest and most vulnerable, and the film shows probably one of the best case-studies of Tony Stark as a character, to the point where it can stand alongside some of the best arcs from the comics.

Please read Footnote (c)

4. Pacific Rim

Watching giant mechas beating the crap out of giant monsters is something I wish every movie could have, but I’ll settle for just this for now. Pacific Rim stands as the shining beacon of the Summer Blockbuster, offering an enjoyable testament to the capabilities of Guillermo Del Toro, as well as appeal of watching a larger-than-life film on the big screen. Does it have some dodgy moments? Sure, the script is clunky and overly blunt at times, and several characters are so clichéd in their appearance and nationality, they look as if they’ve come directly from a Street Fighter clone. However, that probably doesn’t matter, what with giant Jaegers fighting giant Kaijus filling me with unbridled glee every time they got into a big fight.

The world that’s been crafted is something to behold, with the East Asian influences of the film really coming into effect during the scenes where we take a break from the action, and get to grips with downtown Hong Kong. That the film can succeed in keeping such a large-scale film grounded during these scenes show how brilliant the performances from supporting actors such as Charlie Day, Idris Elba and Ron Perlman can be. We can also see how the hero may be as traditionally written as possible, but how such an archetype can help the film focus on areas that need as little complicated story-telling as possible, what with the Jaegers themselves being given as much techno-babble as possible. However, in the end, its the action scenes that are the best parts of the film, where behemoths clash in epic fights that scale as high as skyscrapers. It really is something that should be seen, in as high a quality as possible.

3. Lincoln

Oscar films are noticeable from a mile away, and can lead to two hours of boredom if they aren’t good. Pity the poor soul who has to sit through dozens of these exercises in tedium, where the actors are struggling, the writing is over dramatic, and every big moment seemingly screams desperation for recognition. However, there will always be the shining examples of these Oscar films, and one such example is Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln.

First off, I fully agree with nearly everyone else in the world that Daniel Day Lewis is brilliant as the titular Lincoln. A performance unlike any other in film history, we see every aspect of the character, from the renowned lawmaker to distant husband and father in a way that can be described as masterful. Day-Lewis fully deserves his third Oscar for his performance, as the film as elevated by him whenever he’s on screen. That’s not to say he’s the only aspect worthy of consideration though, as Spielberg has directed his most intricate, fascinating drama since Saving Private Ryan, with the race to ensure the freedom of all slaves during the closing years of the American Civil War being presented as a fight between social justices against political calculations. There are times when we see the President resort to less than agreeable tactics and circumstances, but we are constantly made aware of the impact that passing the bill could have on the millions of people whose lives are potentially at risk. This can be seen not only in the performance of Day-Lewis, but the exceptional performance of Tommy Lee Jones, who gives one of the finest moments in his career as Thaddeus Stevens.

It’s a film filled with a mixture of big and small moments, each complimenting each other. In other words, it’s one of the best dramas I’ve seen in recent times.

2. Gravity

I saw Gravity during my short stay in Rotterdam, where there’s a large 3D IMAX screen for special feature presentations. I was told this was the optimal way of watching the film, and I knew that trying to watch the film in London would be a lot harder, so I decided to ignore the expense and just go with it. This ended up being the best possible decision I could make film-wise, as it’s nothing like I’ve ever seen in all my years going to the cinema. It’s become a trend for most people writing about the film to talk about how they’ve the film is something completely new, but I still admit: I’ve never seen anything like it. An action film that feels like the best possible roller-coaster ride, where the effects and performances allow for a suspension of disbelief so powerful, you’d almost believe that it looked as real as possible.

The genius of the film is not just in the special effects, which were indeed as brilliant as I had been told, but in how the film utilises every asset it had in order to bring to life an immense action spectacular, Based entirely around the static, lifelessness of space, the premise is based entirely around the outer rims of space, where there’s danger seemingly everywhere. George Clooney is fine as the veteran astronaut, but it’s Sandra Bullock who impresses, fully justifying her Oscar credentials in a role that would challenge anyone. She spends a good chunk of the film essentially alone, and to watch her go through some of the most spectacular set-pieces I’ve ever seen, there’s barely a moment where you’re not painfully aware of the danger she’s in. The effects themselves are also unbelievable at times with the level of destruction and detail being something to behold. Alfonso Cuaron has been on a list of potential great directors for a while since he not only made the best Harry Potter film, but also the brilliant Children of Men, which stands as one of my favourite Science Fiction films of all time. Here, he shows how he can stand as one of the finest action directors as well, with the film being a perfect example of how to be both critically acclaimed and an audience pleaser.

1. Cloud Atlas

I admire ambition more than I ever like it. I’m always hoping that films find more methods to subvert a status quo rather than give me something I’ve seen before, but that usually means anything that could be described as ‘different’ when compared to other films of it’s kind leave me more than eager to praise it despite the flaws. However, when I say that Cloud Atlas is one of the most mesmerising, exceptional films I’ve seen this year, I say that knowing full well I don’t have to patronise it’s ambition, or over-state what it’s doing. It’s an epic, ambitious tale of love, life and the human condition, and it does it in a way that can only be described as miraculous. There’s barely a moment where I was bored, or wondering what was going on, which in itself is an accomplishment considering six different stories are being told at once.

The film is about history, and it’s role in the passing of time and space. Everything in the film is connected, whether through theme, relation, coincidence, or just time itself. It tells six stories of six men and women who seem completely different,but share a clear distinction amongst each other that passes onto the next person, intentionally or not. This is made possible through a cast of actors who portray different characters in different time periods, indicating that each character is reincarnated multiple times in different circumstances and areas to fulfil a certain role. Some are inherently good, some destined to be bad, some are in flux between the two depending on the time period. Either way, each person has a role that they fulfil, that is stunning to see change in each different story. If this looks confusing (Same actors, different time periods, but same souls, but WHAAAA?!?), I’m doing a disservice to the film itself, as the editing and direction of the film do the impossible and make the six stories being told connect in a way that most films haven’t even attempted.

Tom Hanks proves why he’s one the greatest actors of our generation, while Halle Berry makes a strong case for why she needs to be given much more material. This is an ensemble piece however, and the rest of the main cast are each spectacular. The make up, costume designing, cinematography and music are all beyond what I thought possible from a film, with the entire production looking as if it cast a lot more than it did. Other standout performances include Bae Doona

It’s possible that some people may not enjoy the film as much as I did, but I can definitely say that I’ve never seen anything like it before in my entire life watching film. It made me feel like I was watching a film at the cinema for the very first time, and re-watching the film makes the experience even better. If you enjoy high-concept science fiction, pulpy thrillers, bittersweet tragedies, historical biopics, madcap comedies, or post-apocalyptic epics, you’ll find something to enjoy. If you like the idea of seeing them being told all at once in connection with one another, this is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Honourable Mention: The last 15 minutes of ‘Lone Ranger’

Let’s get this out of the way: I hated the Lone Ranger. Hated, hated, hated it. The tone and presentation is all over the place, the actors seem lost or bored, the ‘banter’ between the Lone Ranger and Tonto borders on monotonous, and the inappropriate levels of violence that occasionally happens left me wondering what should be considered appropriate for a kids-teenagers film. There seems to be a large disdain for the character and general concept of the Lone Ranger, with his idealism and heroic nature being ridiculed and insulted at every opportunity. Tonto is basically Captain Jack Sparrow but without any shred of charm or cohesion, and Johnny Depp’s portrayal of him borders on insensitive to centuries of Native American History. Basically, I hated nearly all two and a half hours of it.

And that’s when I got to the final 15 minutes, where the big action set-piece starts. The famous William Tell Overture starts, and it feels as if I’ve walked into a completely different film. One where the excitement is almost overwhelming, where the CGi is indistinguishable from real life, where the exhilaration is like something I never thought possible from the film. Gore Verbinski proves why he’s one of the best action film directors around with a set-piece that stands as one of the most ambitious and joyous celebrations possible, where we finally see the Lone Ranger act as heroic and brave as we assume he’d be. Also, Tonto barely says anything, meaning we can just focus on the action unfolding in front of us. In short, it was probably the most fun I had watching a film this year. It was just a shame I had to sit through two hours of bollocks to get to it.

That’s it! Special thanks go to Ariel Nichols and John Quinn for help with proof reading and other suggestions. You guys rock!

Footnotes:

a. The tragic events concerning the death of Paul Walker are something I hadn’t anticipated when thinking of in this list, and as such weren’t part of my original enjoyment of the film. However, as it is, it was sad to see an excellent actor from a film I really liked pass away this year in tragic circumstances.

b. Special Mention goes out to ‘This is the End’, the other apocalypse set, cameo filled, well written comedy film this year, which was a little too similar in story and execution to The World’s End to include as a separate film in this list, and probably not as funny or interesting to compare to. However, I enjoyed it as a brilliant self-satire of well-known actors such as James Franco, Seth Rogen, Emma Watson, Michael Cera, and numerous other actors who were admirably game enough to elevate the film into something more than what could have been a 90-minute Funny or Die sketch. There were also standout performances from Danny McBride and Jay Baruchel.

c. Like with the apocalypse films being too similar to include separately on the list, I’d like to give a special mention to Thor: The Dark World, which managed to improve on its fun but flawed predecessor in several ways. The film itself still has problems in areas where I doubt it’s going to get better anytime soon, such as its complexity and pacing, but it was good to see such a fantastical mythological character being given a genuine fantasy adventure to go on, as opposed to the previous film’s insistence on mining as much comedy as possible out of the ‘fish-out-of-water’ premise of Thor in New Mexico. Also, any film with more Loki in it than usual is instantly made better, but credit should also be given to the supporting cast as well who are given a bit more to do.

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