Best "PC" Games of 2002

What a whirlwind year for the humble PC it's been. With more and more gamers getting online, it seems that the massively multiplayer online games are finally coming of age, and titles like Unreal Tournament 2003 and even Counter-Strike are pulling in the 'Net gamers.

As always, we had to whittle the list down to a select few. Just click on the image or the number link and you'll be able to see why we thought the game was deserving of such a prestigious accolade.

Game #8

While this one's aimed at the littlies, it is one of the better kids games to release in 2002. With a plethora of game modes and lively graphics, this is one game the ankle-biters won't want to miss.

Game #7

Whether you crave ultra-realism or something a little more fast and fun, this next game can be tailored to suit many different play styles. Arguably the last word on Formula One games, it is said that many professional drivers use it to refresh themselves with the circuits.

Game #6

As Richard Moore, our resident tactical genius, puts it: "Strategy gamers will play this for hundreds of hours - possibly in one sitting - and it will hang around on the hard disk for a very, very long time. Europa Universalis 2 is a classic-to-be that will eclipse even Civilization in gamers' minds."

Game #5

The only flaw for this game was that it all eventually had to end... With solid multi- and single-player offerings, this is the action RPG that keeps Blizzard coders up at night.

Game #4

Ah - the first-person shooter. Arguably one of the most popular and best-selling genre's for the PC, this one was a bit of no-brainer. Improving on the games that came before it, the '2003' revision offers bigger levels, better graphics and superior weaponary.

Game #3

The second RPG in our "Best Of" list, this one offers more scope than most, while giving players one of the most sumptuous and engrossing storylines ever, brought to life with some seriously hot visuals.

Game #2

Prior to its release, this game was built-up, hyped and given a right-royal PR spinning. Thankfully, the final iteration doesn't disappoint. Combining the goodness of an RPG with the tactics of a real-time strategy game, this is fantasy gaming at its best.

Game #1

This one is an absolute Hit, man! While the original game - Codename 47 - had a few issues with the physics, the recently released sequel is - quite simply - a brilliant game. It's not perfect, but then it's not far from perfection either. Hitman 2: Silent Assassin should be on everyone's must-have list, without a doubt.