NINTENDO GAME OF THE YEAR

RUNNER-UP OCTOPATH TRAVELLER

Developer Acquire, Square Enix Publisher Nintendo Format Switch Its eight-stories-in-one conceit didn’t always work, but after Square’s disastrous Secret Of

Mana remake, this was nostalgia done right. Borrowing smartly from Bravely Default, it treated us to some of the most exhilarating JRPG fights we’ve had in ages, while Yasunori Nishiki’s soundtrack, itself blending old and new, was one of the year’s best scores.

RUNNER-UP SPLATOON 2: OCTO EXPANSION

Developer/publisher Nintendo (EPD) Format Switch Hisashi Nogami and crew went above and beyond with this full-fat add-on, a smart and surprisingly tough-edged expansion comprising a series of challenge maps, each repurposing the game’s weapon set to inventive new ends. Its twisted story culminates in a finale that comfortably outstrips the main game’s singleplayer campaign. DLC done right.

WINNER SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE

Developer Sora Ltd, Bandai Namco Studios Publisher Nintendo Format Switch The best Nintendo game of the year isn’t necessarily the most Nintendo game of the year, but Smash’s cup runneth over with affection for both its publisher and, indeed, all videogames. It’s a giant love-in – comically overstuffed with features, characters and delightfully niche references, this is a party to which Masahiro Sakurai ensures everyone is invited.