Favorite 2018 Release: The Alliance Alive. It was such a surprising game. It felt like a mixture of old, new, classic, and fresh. I had low expectations due to The Legend of Legacy, but they were squashed by the time I finished the first hour of The Alliance Alive. Runner ups: 7'Scarlet and Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology.
Least Favorite 2018 Release: Secret of Mana for the PlayStation 4. A buggy, bland and banal remake of a childhood favorite. It shows how far Square has fallen, and how little they care about their non-FF franchises and their fans. Runner up: Kirby Battle Royale.
Favorite Game Played in 2018: There are many, but I'll give it to my replay of Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter. I already liked the game, but this replay solidified it in my top three. Truly an amazing game that shows what it means to take risks. Runner ups: the choices from the favorite 2018 release category, as well as Shining the Holy Ark.
Least Favorite Game Played in 2018: Again, there are many. But, I'll go with Golden Sun: Dark Dawn. This series...*shakes head* So much wasted potential. Runner ups: Contact, Tao's Adventure, Ray Gigant.
Sleeper Hit of 2018: Death Mark. Holy moly this game is wonderful, but it completely slipped my radar. It combines the best of visual novel, point-and-click adventure, and a touch of role-playing into a unique and terrifying package.
Favorite Gaming Moment in 2018: The true ending in 7'Scarlet. I've gone through more VNs this year than any other, but none of them had that emotional impact like the one in 7'Scarlet.
Proudest Collection Accomplishment of 2018: I found some great stuff at Retropalooza, but my favorite find from the year has been getting my CIB copy of MS Saga: New Dawn. I was just killing time before meeting some friends and wandered into a used media store. There the game was - one I've wanted to play for years.