I think we can all agree that 2009 was a big year for both PS3 and Xbox 360. Both Sony and Microsoft alike shifted a lot of consoles, detailed plans for motion controllers to rival the Wii and delivered some massive exclusive and  multiplatform titles such as Uncharted 2, Forza 3, Left 4 Dead 2, Killzone 2, Assassin’s Creed 2 and of course Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. Somehow however, 2010 is promising to be an even bigger and better year for the big two HD consoles, with both Sony and Microsoft getting ready to hit the ground running with the release of some stellar and massive console specific exclusives. After much deliberation, we here at TGL have compiled a list of the Top 5 exclusives that were collectively looking forward to play most for both consoles. First up it’s the Xbox 360. Here we go:

5. Halo: Reach

2009’s Halo 3: ODST was slightly underwhelming and although it was an amicable addition to the Halo franchise, it wasn’t the true step forward for Halo that we all really wanted to see. Cue, Halo: Reach. Details are still a little sparse at the moment but with Bungie at the helm of this prequel to the original Halo, were expecting big things. The game recently got a world exclusive reveal trailer at this month’s VGA’s and although we didn’t get a look at any kind of gameplay, the new Halo engine was on show. If you bought ODST, you’ll be no doubt taking part in the Reach beta promised in the Spring. Whether you think it’s a proper sequel or just a prequel, one thing’s for sure, Halo: Reach is going to be huge.

4: Crackdown 2

The sequel to 2007’s surprise hit Crackdown; its sequel will be getting a release in the first half of 2010 according to MS boss Aaron Greenberg. Unveiled at E3 2009, Crackdown 2 sees you playing the role of ‘Agent’ who manipulates the mutant infested streets of Pacific City. Crackdown 2 will build on the original and promises to be a real blast. It also looks amazing. Blowing stuff up never looked this good. Get ready to start jump around collecting those orbs all over again.

3: Alan Wake

Alan Wake has been in the works for far too long but at E3 2009 Remedy Entertainment at last confirmed that 2010 will be the year we finally get to step into Alan’s shoes. An early contender for 2010’s Game of The Year, the only thing that can stop this game from being a major critical and commercial success is the weight of the years of hype and mystery surrounding the title. Alan Wake is a bestselling writer, condemned to play out a living nightmare (which is actually his latest novel) so that he can find his missing wife Alice. Think Psychological Horror ala Silent Hill 2. Think Twin Peaks. Think Alan Wake. This is arguably the 360’s most important game of 2010.

2: Mass Effect 2

Mass Effect 2 is going to be the first big exclusive for the 360 in 2010, with the game being released internationally at the end of January. It’s so close, it’s almost tangible. With its epic RPG action set in the backdrop of deathly space, the original Mass Effect blew away 360 owners upon its release in 2007. Commander Shepard returns in Mass Effect 2 and considering that the game is shipping on 2 discs, ME2 will be huge for lots of different reasons. With new weapons and new classes promised, TGL cannot wait to get our hands on this at the end of January.

1: Splinter Cell Conviction

Sam Fisher is back and it’s been too long. Our most anticipated Xbox 360 game for 2010 is Splinter Cell Conviction. Originally announced by Ubisoft way back in 2007, Conviction will finally launch in February. After discovering that the death of his daughter Sarah wasn’t an accident, Sam turns his back on the Third Echelon in order to learn the truth behind Sarah’s death. The Third Enchelon in turn pursues Fisher who must utilize and unite with old friends and colleagues to find out who in fact killed his daughter. The stealth action we know and love, the gadgets, the compelling story line, there all here. This is the Splinter Cell we know and love. The game will also include multiplayer options as well as a number of co-operative modes which look amazing. It’s promising to be a massive release for the 360 in 2010 and as a result, stands atop our Top 5 360 exclusive list for 2010.

What do you think? Do you agree with our Top 5? What are you looking forward to play on 360 in 2010? We know that a some of these games will appear on PC too so dont bother reminding us. As the 360 is the only console that these games will appear on, we felt it was only fair to include them. They are still exclusive to the 360 console in that sense. Thoughts and comments below everyone.