Best Downgraded Visuals – Watch Dogs
2014 was the year of the video game conspiracy, and one of the most controversial topics of the year was the practice of downgrading visuals from what was previously shown in a trailer or gameplay video. One developer in particular was accused of this practice on more than a few occasions – Ubisoft – which is why its Watch Dogs took home the honor for Best Downgraded Visuals in 2014. The game looked amazing in its E3 debut, but by the time it finally released nothing appeared to be what it seemed, which disappointed many eager fans of the new franchise.
Most Immature Mature Content – Sunset Overdrive
Sunset Overdrive is a great new title from Insomniac Games, but it definitely has its fair share of immature content for a mature game. Hell the outfits you can wear and the guns you can wield are perfect examples of this game’s kick ass immaturity, not to mention the colorful cast of misfit characters that you meet along the way. The immature content is fun and makes this game what it is, so this award isn’t has damning as some of the others on this list, and by no means an indication of Sunset’s merits.
Best Use of Old Assets – Far Cry 4
Ubisoft’s Far Cry 4 is another fun to play worthwhile experience, but it’s hard not to think of it as Far Cry 3 Part Two. Outside of the mountainous landscape this game looks just like its predecessor. Vehicles look the same, weapons look the same, even the NPC baddies resemble the ones used in FC3. Visually this game just feels like a slightly more polished version of the last game, so the developers didn’t really stretch themselves when it came to producing new assets for Ajay’s romp through Kryat.
