I’ve always been comfortable in my own company, so the prospect of self-isolating for a few weeks didn’t exactly phase me. But, since getting the news that we might not return to some sense of normalcy for the next six months, I’ve had to reconsider how I’m going to survive the extended self-isolation.
So, as Little Red Ā PRās resident gamer, Iām pleased to share with you the half a dozen games that are essential to riding out the lockdown. And what better way to kit out my gaming den than with the Nanoleaf Canvas Kit (pictured below) and a dedicated WD_Black drive to store up to 200 games.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)
Aptly named, considering the current climate, the latest instalment of the much-loved franchise acts as the perfect proxy for those of you who had a real-life trip to paradise planned, as well as those who simply miss socialising.Ā And, although this may initially open wounds that have barely healed over, I’m confident you’ll forget all about them once losing yourself in unadulterated bliss. Craving social interaction? Check-in with the neighbouring family of raccoons. Eager to take up agriculture? Plant, grow and harvest turnips. Always wanted to try your hand at carpentry? Build furniture and kit out your crib.Ā There’s no overarching goal here; the world is your oyster, so go wherever your whims may take you.
Doom Eternal (PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Google Stadia)
Off the back of glowing reviews for the Doom reboot in 2016, it seems Bethesda and iD softwareās highly anticipated sequel is posed to outdo its predecessor. Focusing on speed and free-flowing combat, the demon-slaying romp is a natural evolution that doesnāt sacrifice the quintessential elements of the original. Doom Eternal is now available for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Stadia and Xbox One, with a Nintendo Switch version planned for a later release.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4)
To be honest, you could substitute any of the Elder Scrolls franchise – or any game from Bethesda, for that matter – and it would still hit the spot. Released nearly a decade ago, it’s action roleplaying done right. And, with a minimum 30 hours of storyline, plus an added 200 hours of side quests (and that’s not even taking into account being derailed by an unexpected dragon fight), you’ll have enough to keep you busy for the foreseeable future.
Destiny 2 (PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 4)
In a time defined by a reverse on our freedom of movement rights, this lucrative loot-shooter offers exploration by the bucket loads. Taking place in a ‘shared world’, players can travel across the galaxy discovering new planets and embarking on solo missions. Or, for the social butterflies who feel their wings have been clipped by quarantine, you can while away the hours raiding spooky lairs with your buddies.
Rise of Nations (Steam)
Honestly, you can opt for any real-time strategy that floats your boat here, but, personally, this round-up wouldn’t be complete without a shout out to Rise of Nations, arguably one of my top 3 favourite games growing up and undoubtedly one of the best games for killing large chunks of time. Available to purchase onĀ SteamĀ (and, occasionally, at a significant discount, providing you keep your wits about you), players have the option of a traditional campaign, however, if you’re a social butterfly like me, you’ll go for the multiplayer option. The goal is simple: choose a nation, build up their resources, advance through the ages and, ultimately, obliterate all opposing nations in sight.Ā It’s hardly wholesome, but – by God – if it isn’t addictive.
Jackbox (Steam, Xbox One, PS4, and Nintendo Switch)
If you’re yet to be acquainted with the Jackbox titles, they’re essentially a collection of party games that can be played with just your phone, making them essential to your self-isolation survival kit.
Included in the care package are games ranging from general trivia quizzes like You Don’t Know Jack to Fibbage, where players have to work out the real answer while trying to fool the other players.
Providing you’re lucky enough to boast a large group of friends to play with, too, you can even have non-participants spectate and vote on their favourite answers to help you climb the rankings. But, realistically, with a game as rip-roaringly fun as Quiplash included in the bundle, everyone will be getting involved.
