GameSpot's Game of the Year award goes to the game that leaves the strongest, most long-lasting impression and that helps shape the industry in the years to come. It should be unique in both those respects. In addition, the Game of the Year must be an excellent game on its own terms. Previous recipients of this award include Blizzard's action-packed role-playing game Diablo (1996); Cavedog's outstanding 3D real-time strategy game Total Annihilation (1997); LucasArts' unforgettable adventure game Grim Fandango (1998); and Verant's addictive online role-playing game EverQuest (1999). Now, we're proud to present the nominees for GameSpot's Game of the Year 2000.

BioWare's sequel to its highly acclaimed 1997 role-playing game managed to be even better than the original. This huge game offers hard-core Dungeons & Dragons fans, as well as role-playing fans in general, a long and involving quest, sophisticated combat, and a huge number of characters to interact with.

Norwegian developer Funcom originally released The Longest Journey in Europe, but this outstanding adventure game has earned a lot of attention through the glowing reviews it received from critics and players alike. The game was finally released in the United States, and the unanimous praise continued - no surprise, considering the game's excellent plot and characters.

There weren't too many first-person shooters released this year, which made No One Lives Forever seem even more impressive. Monolith Productions' witty, fast-paced shooter is inspired by '60s spy movies, yet the high quality of the game's story and gameplay is never overshadowed by whatever kitsch value is inherent in the game's retro styling.

This real-time strategy game focuses on the Sengoku Jidai, a particularly bloody era in Japanese history. You play as one of several Japanese clans, all seeking the same ultimate goal: to consolidate the country under their rule. Shogun features impressive epic-scale battles and highly realistic gameplay, and its attention to historical detail is also noteworthy.

Maxis' innovative and very funny simulation of human life seemingly captured everyone's attention. Released early this year, The Sims managed to remain a best-seller throughout, which wasn't surprising considering the game's broad appeal, amusing and involving gameplay, and Maxis' continued online support of the game. The game's retail expansion, Livin' Large, effectively extended the game's appeal even further.