When you think about how many games are released in a single year, the number is huge, we get everything from mobile games to MMO’s, from single player experiences to e-sport tournaments.

Of course with the way that our passion works, we usually know of things well in advance, so surprises are a rarity, but 2014 saw us get a few very nice ones.

OverWatch

While new games are not uncommon, anything new from Blizzard, not based in one of their exsisting game worlds is pretty special, even more so when it was announced at Blizzcon and then playable as well. After wowing the crowd with a spectacular introduction movie, fans were then treated to an in depth look at how it works, but the crowning moment was telling people it was playable was what placed this surprise on the list.



Now, in true Blizzard style, we just need to wait until it is released.

The Legend of Zelda Wii U

Most Nintendo fans know by now, to not expect anything if they want to be surprised, because whenever we expect some news we rarely get it. So when E3 2014 came around, we gave up on seeing Zelda, but what we were given was a look, like nothing else. Eiji Anouma started in front of a white screen, explaining what the team wanted to get in to the new game, but when those fingers snapped and we got our first look at the world, everyone was impressed.



We have since been treated to a second look, but now we have to wait and hope it makes its release this year.

Shovel Knight

Anyone who grew up playing Mega Man or Ducktales knows just how hard some games can be, but the reward when you finish them can be even greater. When Shovel Knight was first announced, it just seemed to be taking cues from those titles, but when people got hands on they realised it was something more. The game ended up surprising people with just how good it was and while it drew inspiration from games of old, it has dug its way into many hearts.



Shovel Knight is making its way over to the PlayStation family of consoles next year, so look for it there.

While I am sure there were many more surprises, these were the ones that really stuck with me, not for their splash or production values, but because they proved themselves with simple ideals and amazing delivery.