With summer vacation on the horizon as the spring semester of college classes come to a close, I am ready and excited to play some much-needed video games. I could purchase new ones to entertain me, but nothing beats re-playing one of your favorite games in your free time.

Over the years as a gamer, I have come to love several titles that have found a special place in my heart. Get ready to see my top 5 favorite video games (in no specific order and without mentioning another game from the same franchise) and why I love them!

1. Pokémon SoulSilver

Alright, I loved "Pokémon SoulSilver"! Not only did you get to relive the most expansive Pokemon Game again, but you had your companions follow you through your journey! All the additional game material added made the experience new and refreshing. All Pokémon games have been a joy to play, but this one takes the cake.

2. Final Fantasy 13

Lightning. That's the best explanation I can give. "Final Fantasy 10" holds a very similar spot in my heart, but the beautiful soundtrack, story, character interactions and cinematic presentation from FF13 solidified this title into my list. Lightning could not have made for a better female protagonist and her character development really made this game even better. I love this game.

3. Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep

I think I have a thing for strong female characters in video games because Aqua is to date, one of the best female protagonists I have seen in a video game. She literally risks her life for her friends, and is given one of the worst vague endings out of the roster of infinite characters in the Kingdom Hearts franchise. Everything about Birth By Sleep really helped develop the already built plot, and it's unusual to love a set of characters from a prequel more than the original cast, but that's exactly what happened. AQUA, YOU DESERVED BETTER!

4. Xenoblade Chronicles 2

This game is a lot more recent but the story of Pyra, Rex, and Mythra is so well developed. There's so much lore, content, story, and game time that goes into completing this amazing title. The soundtrack is heavenly and the gameplay is fun without seeming repetitive as they continuously incorporate new elements throughout your progression.

5. The Walking Dead

This franchise of the tell-tale games really provides insight into the world of the comic and TV series. I honestly prefer the characters in the video game now to the ones on the show. Clementine's story as she goes through every season is so amazing to follow, but Lee's from season 1 is one that really crushes your heart. Without spoiling, I can say that tears were shed at the end of the season 1 of "The Walking Dead's" game.