Here it is, my top picks for 2008. No long, boring introduction. Just check it out and keep reading for the rest of my favorites of 2008.

Game Of The Year

Gears Of War 2
This game has stunning graphics, absolutely perfect game play mechanics and some of the best multiplayer design to come out in a long time. Add on an emotional and fleshed out storyline with just enough twists and unanswered questions for a sequel or two and you’ve got one of the year’s greatest releases. The interesting story keeps the action flowing and varied. Tack in support for online and offline bots and Horde mode and Gears Of War 2 is easily the best game of the year.

Runner-up
Fable 2

Movie Of The Year

The Dark Knight
The lasting and visionary Dark Knight is full of expected surprises – the way a story should be. Done well enough to catch me off guard when they happen, even though I knew something had to be coming. A great thrill ride of why we need heroes to stop the sinister criminal activity in Gotham City.

Runners-up
Iron Man, Wanted

Blu-ray Of The Year
I work in the industry so this makes it difficult to judge. Instead of picking just one, I’ll list a few of the numerous releases this year that I really enjoy - Casino Royale, The Dark Knight, Cloverfield, Iron Man and Wanted.

Album Of The Year

Bullet For My Valentine - Scream Aim Fire
This one took a few listens before really sinking in and eventually making its way to the top of my 2008 list. The follow-up to the excellent The Poison is loaded with catchy guitar riffs, memorable choruses, great musicianship and dynamic vocal ranges. A grand mix of modern and 80’s metal.

Runners-up
Walls Of Jericho - The American Dream, Bury Your Dead - S/T

Action Figure Of The Year

AVP Requiem Predator Wolf
Hot Toys' series of Movie Masterpiece model kits continue to impress. This highly detailed figure features 22 points of articulation, a fabric net body suit, detailed armor and lots of accessories like twin plasma cannons, whips, shurikens, removable mask and more. A lot of work has been put into this 1:6 scale action figure giving it excellent painting and sculpting details. The packaging is also top-notch and collector friendly. This one has been on my shelf since receiving it earlier this year.

Runners-up
Obi-Wan Kenobi: General - Clone Wars (Sideshow), AVP Requiem Predalien (Hot Toys), Appleseed Saga Ex Machina - Deunan Knute (Hot Toys), Halo 3 Master Chief (McFarlane)