Puzzle games must have good puzzles, and that’s just to start. Usually, the puzzles have to be unique and have mechanics that differ from other games. This category didn’t see much action this year, but there were a few great ones. Every game this year created a unique way to solve puzzles, as well as deliver charming stories and characters along with them.

Portal 2

This really wasn’t a fair category this year. Portal 2 easily beats out anything else with its amazing characters, story, voice acting, and who can beat using portals? What makes it different from the last game is everything. Introducing new gels, a longer campaign, and varied environments make it a whole new animal. The game also featured super fun co-op multiplayer and just flowed perfectly with very creative puzzles.

Runner-Ups

Pushmo

ilomilo

Professor Layton and the Last Specter

Stacking