What a bonkers year. I have at least four 2004 games in my top 50.
My pick is Half-Life 2. Just an absolute roller coaster of a game. And one of the prettiest, most immersive, and most thoughtful when it comes to storytelling and game design.
Second place would go to Snake Eater, my pick for best Metal Gear title. Third place would go to Zero Mission.
Damn, what a year.