Before moving on to the start of this year, a quick look at what I enjoyed in the past year.
But remember all that glitters is not gold! Everyone has their own personal likes and dislikes and just because you don't necessarily agree with me, doesn't mean I'm wrong (Or you for that matter).
Games
Ok, I will happily admit that gaming is one of those things I can take or leave, I just like to dip my toes into the pool occasionally and in all likelihood everything I enjoyed playing in the last year probably isn't current, but it is still a representation of what I enjoy so here goes.
1.
Bioshock How had I managed never to play this game until this year? Visually this game is stunning, it is atmospheric (creepy) and completely immersive. If you haven't played this game and I'm going to assume that I'm probably not the only one, then beg, borrow or steal (well don't steal cause that's just wrong) a copy as soon as you can.
2.
Heavy Rain I played the demo of this and absolutely loved it and had to buy the full game. Again this game is fully immersive, every choice you make, every action determines what happens throughout the game. If you're after mindless violence and action then this game probably isn't for you, but if you want something a bit different that is completely engrossing, then go for it.
3.
Final Fantasy XIII Now I am completely aware that are lots of you out there that really dislike this game and feel it is not up to the usual Final Fantasy standard but, I actually quite like it. Yes it has faults, it's a bit linear, free roaming seems to be a thing of the past and the fight scenes seem to be made up of pressing the x button repeatedly but the movie sequences are just beautiful and that makes up for all the faults in my eyes. Visually the game is stunning, the storyline is understandable and interesting and all in all definitely worth trying out.
Movies
1.
Alice in Wonderland All I really have to say about this is, Tim Burton & Johnny Depp.....Really people what could possibly be wrong with it. I love it and if you don't tough!
2.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World Based on the graphic novels, this movie is basically a geeky love story,
Scott Pilgrim must defeat his new girlfriend's seven evil exes in order to win her heart. It is definitely not some kind of cinematic masterpiece nevertheless it is a fantastic film. Visually stunning, packed full of pop culture references and a great soundtrack.
3 Micmacs A man and his friends come up with an intricate and original plan to destroy two big weapons manufacturers. This quirky French film from Jean-Pierre Jeunet who gave us Amelie, Delicatessen and The City of Lost Children all of which are favourites of mine, is almost perfect in every way. If you haven't seen it why not?
TV Shows
1. Dr Who It took a few episodes to get used to Matt Smith as the new Dr but it's amazing how quickly you forget the previous incarnation. My darling daughter on the other hand has decided that she is no longer going to watch the show, in her head David Tenant is and should be, the only Dr Who (who say's we get more inflexible as we get older!). Anyway, Doctor Who has been shortlisted in two categories for this year's National Television Awards. The winners will be announced at a ceremony later this month with Matt Smith nominated for Best Performance for his role as the Time Lord and Doctor Who up for Best Drama.
2. Sherlock The BBC did it again with another stunning drama adaptation. Co-created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, Benedict Cumberbatch starred as the new Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as his loyal friend, Doctor John Watson. Brought bang up to date this was fast paced and amusing. It too has been nominated for two National Television Awards, in fact the same two as Dr Who. It's a close call and we'll just have to wait and see.
3. Big Bang Theory The series follow four geeks named Sheldon, Raj, Howard and Leonard, plus Penny a pretty blonde across the hallway. This is just incredibly funny, brilliantly scripted and well delivered by all the cast.
I was going to take a look at my favourite
reads of the year as
well but, I think that will have to be another post.
