First Runner Up: Titanfall 2
Titanfall 2 had the poor luck of releasing between two of the biggest online focused titles in 2016, yet it’s a game that shouldn’t be overlooked. Taking the momentum based formula of the original 2014 game, Titanfall 2’s multiplayer surpasses its predecessor in every regard. With a plethora of different modes, weapons, and equipment, developer Respawn Entertainment offers players a unique suite of weapons to deal death with. From the suicidal Tick robots to a ninja star that creates a mini black hole, there is always something new to experiment with and utilize.
However, the real stars of this game are the six selectable and customizable Titans that players can call down from orbit. Each one has their own strengths and weaknesses, with their weaponry offering game-changing effects. Titans like Scorch can wall off entire areas with lakes of fire while the nimble, sword using Ronin can phase between realities to close the distance in combat. No Titan feels better than others and each one has an exploitable weakness that smart Pilots can take advantage of.
All of this is built upon the movement system for Pilots that pushes players to wall run, climb, and double jump to their heart’s desire. Every level offers unique and interesting paths that snake throughout the map, yet the brilliance in Titanfall 2’s movement system is the freedom it allows. Each level and city is a playground waiting to be explored, with no real predetermined routes for users to follow, giving its combat a truly organic feeling. Battles take place at high speed and can result in some truly fast and furious chases.
There hasn’t been a multiplayer game released this year that masters momentum and speed better than Titanfall 2.
