Best of 2012

Action and adventure have been at the heart of videogames since their conception. Tense combat, thrilling chases and the emotional highs which result from them are the cornerstones of a genre which keeps players gasping for breath and coming back for more. 2012 was no slouch in this department, and we have found a selection of five fantastic games representing the best the industry had to offer.

Here are Destructoid's nominees for the best Action/Adventure title of 2012:

Dishonored

"Arkane's aggressive, non-aggressive, unsubtle, sneaky, thoroughly versatile tale of intrigue makes for the kind of game that reminds us this generation isn't all straightforward shooters and 'me too' trend-seekers. Its level design is some of the very best, its willingness to let the player decide their own path is exhilarating, and the satisfaction gleaned from a mission well done leaves one hungry for more."

Read the full Dishonored review.

Hotline Miami

"In a medium where taking a life means so little, Hotline Miami has a way of making each death feel significant. Each step toward a higher score is one further away from your character's sanity. Picking up the gun comes naturally, and Hotline Miami wants to explore why."

Read the full Hotline Miami review.

Max Payne 3

"Max Payne 3 is a game which is instantly recognizable by its gameplay tropes yet manages to achieve a fresh take on the character and his world without betraying his origins. Packed with fast action, brutal violence, and a striking cinematic style, all of the stops have been pulled out to make this the most exciting entry in the series to date."

Read the full Max Payne 3 review. 

Sleeping Dogs

"The first couple hours of Sleeping Dogs are some of the best gaming you'll have all year..."

Read the full Sleeping Dogs review.

Tokyo Jungle 

"...if you don't laugh your ass off at Tokyo Jungle, there's something seriously wrong with you. It's not the deepest or most polished game out there, but it makes up for any faults with ceaseless hilarity. Reading about how you'll first control a cute little Pomeranian pup to go up against other animals is one thing, but actually mashing the button to have the little guy swipe his paw at a roaring lion -- or a massive, chomping alligator -- is another."

Read the full Tokyo Jungle review.

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Congrats to all the nominees! We'll be announcing the official winner on Friday, December 14. In the mean time we want you to tell us which game this year was the best for action/adventure. Plus, be sure to go vote in our Community Choice Award for your favorite game of 2012.

Check out all our other categories and nominations:

• Game of the Year nominees
• Best visuals nominees
• Best PC exclusives
• Best console exclusives
• Best multiplayer
• Best soundtrack
• Best portable
• Best platformer
• Best shooter
• Best RPG
• Best strategy game