1) Saints Row the 3rd
Technically came out late 2011 but I just played it. Everything I hated about GTA is fixed in this game. It's the GTA I've wanted since the start. Ridiculous, over the top and most of all it has missions and characters that I actually enjoy.
1)Lone Survivor
Who ever though a pixel art game could be scary? This game was a wonderful mindfuck and was like a David Lynch production with one major difference. You didn't hate the ending.
1)Faster Than Light
Space exploration games,micromangement games and rougelikes usually take a lot of time to learn and are a big commitment. FTL melds the 3 in a format that you can play without the huge time commitment.
1)The Walking Dead
Two words. Holy Fuck. This game REALLY pushed the adventure genre forward. Can't say much without ruining the story except it's really really good.
1)Hotline Miami
I haven't played a game this intense in years. The story kept you wanting more. One of the few games I've played lately where I had to go back and be a completionist. Absolutely loved this game. Cactus has paid his dues for years and I'm so glad to see his first commercial endeavor is such a success.
Also my biggest disappointment was Retro City Rampage. Was awesome for the first 40 mins then I realized this game was just an endless delivery of winks and nods but the underlying game was actually quite boring.
EDIT: I havent played Xcom yet. I'm guessing it would be on my list if I had.