The Underdog: A Look at Games That Don’t Get Enough Credit

When it comes to any form of entertainment, word of mouth is important. Compared to other industries, like music or film, video games might not overcome a negative reception upon release. After all, it’s easy to listen to a song or watch a film’s trailer to see if you might like something that others found unappealing.

That’s not the case with video games. Gamers shell out quite a bit of money for top titles, then spend hours of downtime to advance in the game. It’s a highly nuanced form of downtime… and not many players are willing to take a chance on a title that doesn't do well with other gamers and major publications like GameStop or PC Mag.

But this kind of approach can be dangerous. After all, it’s easy to jump on a bandwagon, especially when it’s going downhill. Most titles, even those that are immediately cast aside by the public, still might be worth trying out. Keep reading for five of the most underrated games available today and why they're worth a try.
 

Online Poker

The poker boom of the early 2000s helped popularize Texas Hold’em worldwide. Even those who had little interest in card games and tests of critical thinking knew a few basic rankings, key terms, and strategies. Still, many people feel that they might not have the logical thinking skills required to perform well and enjoy the game.

But don’t let that dissuade you. Today, millions learn more about poker on sites like PokerStars, which offer variations in game type and format. In other words, if you're a beginner who wants to have fun while playing, you won't be alone. In fact, there are events, guides, and even academies designed for beginners to learn the basics and then dive into the game properly.
 

Vampyr (2019)

This project from Dontnod flew under the radar for many. Thanks to its low production value, it was skipped over in favor of other action RPG releases in 2019. However, if you had a passing interest in the game, it’s worth revisiting. Players must navigate a post-WWI world as they grapple with the moral consequences of becoming a vampire. It’s got killer action sequences, unique characters, an atmospheric take on London, and supernatural intrigue. And with a release in 2019, even its low-grade features are superior to cutting-edge projects from the early and mid-2010s.
 

Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)

The release of Cyberpunk 2077 will go down as one of gaming’s biggest flops. Despite tons of press before the release, a promising open-world setup, and a cameo from Keanu Reeves, bugs quickly tanked the project. Players and critics like its narrative and setting, but issues with gameplay caused repeated problems.

But there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Since its release, there have been multiple updates—and the gamers who have stuck with Cyberpunk 2077 maintain that it’s highly underrated. The game includes an insane about of customization in terms of its MC’s mercenary skills, along with a world that’s brimming with details. If you were intrigued at first and then turned off by bugs, give this title another try—or maybe stick around for the sequel.
 
 

Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (2015)

The prequel to Syndicate, Assassin’s Creed Unity, and its sequel, Assassin’s Creed Origins, are the most-hated and most-loved releases in the franchise, respectively. Released between them, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate often flies under the radar. But it’s a turning point in the series—and one that includes a highly intriguing take on industrial-era London. If you’re a fan of the franchise, then you’ll enjoy seeing how it evolves in Syndicate, including new tropes, more satisfying missions, refined combat, and the introduction of tools like the grappling hook.
 

Dark Souls 2 (2014)

The first Dark Souls release is regarded as one of the most difficult (and satisfying) gaming experiences in the industry. Unsurprisingly, the sequel by FromSoftware didn’t quite live up to expectations—but that doesn’t mean it’s overrated, either. While some players disliked the predictable nature of level bosses, many also felt that the gameplay mechanics had improved greatly from the first release.

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