While many publications are wrapping up their look at the best games of 2009, we have decided to peer ahead. Most gamers know what titles came last year, but keeping track of upcoming releases can be a bit more difficult.

We are going to take a look at some of the most anticipated PC games of 2010, from top to bottom in alphabetical order we have a total of 31 games spanning nearly every genre. Naturally, this list is subjective, but we hope it will allow you to keep tabs on what will likely be some of the best games this year.

Hopefully a majority of these actually see the light over the next 12 months. As you know, development delays are common with ambitious game projects – just ask the folks at 3D Realms.

Aliens vs. Predator

Release date: February 16 - Genre: Survival Horror, Action, FPS
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PS3

Developed by Rebellion Developments, the studio behind the original 1999 hit, Aliens versus Predator, the latest title will bring three FPS campaigns (Aliens, Predators, and Colonial Marines) that form one overarching storyline.

Based on gameplay footage, Predators will remain true to the way they are depicted in films: stealthy, efficient, technologically advanced hunters. They are outfitted with a cloaking device, several vision modes, and a host of other gadgetry.

Aliens seem to focus on close range combat, using their tail, claws, and jaws – not to mention that their acid blood can damage opponents. Using weapons like the Pulse Rifle and Smart Gun, the Colonial Marines seem to offer a more traditional FPS gameplay.

Another FPS title based on this theme, Aliens: Colonial Marines, is currently under development by Gearbox Software and is also expected to debut this year.

Alpha Protocol

Release date: Q2/2010 - Genre: Action RPG
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PS3

Hop into the shoes of rookie CIA field agent Michael Thorton after he is cut off from all of his contacts, betrayed by his superiors, and wanted from the US government. Thorton resorts to the "Alpha Protocol" – something usually reserved for more experienced agents – and begins to operate undercover, unraveling the conspiracy behind his dilemma.

The game blends espionage-style action with RPG elements, allowing the player to customize Thorton's attributes as well as weapon and gadget load-outs, permitting a highly dynamic approach to missions. You can bust into a room of baddies with guns blazing, lace the joint with explosives, bypass confrontation with stealth, and anything in-between.

The dialogue progression also allows you to reply with numerous attitudes, be it "suave" like James Bond, "aggressive" like Jack Bauer, or "professional" like Jason Bourne. Deviating from the norm, there is a short timer so you're forced to quickly take an emotional stance and stick with it, making for a pressured experience.

APB: All Points Bulletin

Release date: March 2010 - Genre: MMORPG
Platforms: PC

Designed and led by David Jones – the face behind GTA and Crackdown – APB is basically a video game of cops and robbers. The game allows you to participate in a constant battle between Law Enforcement and Criminals as they seek to control the sprawling fictional metropolis of San-Palo. Each territory within the city is contested 24/7, forcing players to strategize offensively and defensively simultaneously.

APB is largely focused on PvP, and apart from the territorial tug of war, you can complete missions for extra money to upgrade weapons, vehicles, and your character's appearance, and resulting stat gains affect the game. For instance, if a band of Criminals rob a store, the game will prompt Law Enforcement players with similar skills.

One of the boldest claims about the game, is that it will be the first MMO where skill determines character progression, rather than time investment. It's also said to lack a subscription fee.

Assassin's Creed II

Release date: March 16 - Genre: Stealth, Action-Adventure
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PS3

As you are probably well aware, Assassin's Creed II has been on store shelves since last November, but the PC version won't be released until mid-March – a real bummer for folks without an Xbox 360 or PS3. Those interested in the PC edition of Assassin's Creed II have likely already seen a game review, but for the unaware...

The game takes place during the Italian Renaissance with players looking through the eyes of a young nobleman-turned-assassin named Ezio Auditore di Firenze as he seeks revenge on those who have killed his brothers and father. Most reviewers agree that Assassin's Creed II is a significant improvement over the first, with less repetitive gameplay, a great story, and tons more content.

Battlefield: Bad Company 2

Release date: March 2 - Genre: FPS, Action
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PS3

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 is a direct sequel to 2008's Battlefield: Bad Company, continuing the conflict between the US and Russia, with the latter advancing through Alaska. Thus, much of the game is set on the west coast of the Americas (spanning Alaska to Chile), making for a diverse collection of locations such as snowy mountains, dense jungles, and sandy deserts.

As in the first Bad Company, BC2 features a highly destructible environment and squad-based gameplay, supporting up to 32 players on the PC and 24 on consoles. The game includes 15 different vehicles, 46 weapons, 15 gadgets, 4 classes, and 13 character specializations – not to mention the 15,000 kit customization options or the 50 ranks and awards. There are four multiplayer modes called Rush, Conquest, Squad Deathmatch, and a Squad Base mode which has yet to be detailed.

BioShock 2

Release date: February 9 - Genre: Survival Horror FPS
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PS3

Set ten years after the events of the first title in the fictional dystopian city Rapture, players assume the role of the first ever Big Daddy ("Subject Delta") – who is oblivious to what has occurred over the previous decade – and are pitted against new enemies in the form of other Big Daddies and Big Sisters.

Unlike the original game, BioShock 2 will offer a multiplayer mode with five gameplay options set one year prior to BioShock. Players will fight in Rapture's Civil War, and will test weapons made by Sinclair Solutions in a consumer reward program which will unlock new weapons and Plasmids.