2012 Promises A Ton Of Epic Video Games

By Michael Lopez

With the Consumer Electronics Show just a few days away, we thought now would be a great time to delve into this year's most anticipated video games. From gun-toting shooters, to zany Nintendo puzzlers, here are a few button mashers that are definitely worth putting on your radar.

Max Payne 3 – Believe it or not, it's been nine years since we've gotten a proper Max Payne sequel. Yes there was that movie with Mark Wahlberg in between, but nothing compares to entering the twisted world of the gritty NYPD vet yourself. The first installment won 2001's Best PC Game of the Year and Part 2 got Editor's Choice from both IGN and Gamespot. Part 3 promises to be just as epic, with new multiplayer modes and a story that takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Look for it to hit shelves in March.

Street Fighter X Tekken – Get ready for the mother of all fighting games. Street Fighter X Tekken mixes characters from two of the most popular fisticuffs titles of all time. Announced back at the 2010 Comic-Con, X features classic brawlers like Ryu, Chun-Li, Kazuya, and Zangief! Not only that, it will incorporate a new "Gem System" that allows for power ups and increased speed. There will also be a Story Mode where you can trace the origins of each fighter from each franchise. Look for this hot commodity to arrive in early Spring.

Kid Icarus: Uprising – One of Nintendo’s hottest games of the year is actually tied to a 25-year-old franchise. The original Kid Icarus arrived way back in 1986 and since then it’s built a fervent fan base. The winged hero’s newest adventure will take place on the 3DS and follow the continuing adventures of Pit as he tries to save the world from Medusa. Weapons such as bows, blades, and cannons will be used and Uprising will allow for unique multiplayer “Death Matches.” Nintendo plans to ship it out by the end of March.

Grand Theft Auto V – Ok, so there’s a chance this title may not be out by the end of the year, but we're throwing it on our list anyway. Back in October, Rockstar released the first trailer from this highly-anticipated sequel and since then it’s attracted millions of downloads. It’s been four years since the last GTA arrived and gamers are eager to invade the world of car jackings, rocket launchers, and mobsters once again. Part V will supposedly take place in California and feature a ton of interactive missions tied to Hollywood and the L.A. lifestyle. And there are even rumors that the main character will be Latino! Expect more updates on this blockbuster by summer.

What video games are you most looking forward to in 2012? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Auto V, GTA V, Hot Stuff, Kid Icarus: Uprising, Max Payne, Max Payne 3, Nintendo, Nintendo 3DS, Rockstar Games, Street Fighter, Street Fighter X Tekken, Tekken, video games