The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The young artist’s vocabulary and sense of syntax attuned, the oil-based paint flows like acrylic. Dual healing strokes restore the canvas’ character; giants bend and break at the fine-tipped spear of the brush. Eventually, the entire painting is within the artist’s talented scope, and Skyrim unfolds like the jötnar from the armpit of the jötunn Ymir.

– Dan Crabtree

Runner Up: Dark Souls