Skyrim is my game of the year, with Portal 2 just behind. I rate Arkham City, Deus Ex and Saints Row: The Third very highly too. 2011 was a great year for games.
You're right, 2011 has been quite a good year for games, despite a drought in the summer.
I started playing Skyrim earlier this week, and it's quite enjoyable. I can't see myself becoming as hooked or engrossed as others seem to have become though, given the reviews from game sites, and people alike. I'm not too far into it yet - I reckon I've clocked up about 7-9 hours playing time. Obviously given the apparent vastness and depth of the game, I've barely scratched the surface, but as I say, it's going to take more playing to really grip me I think. Once I really get my teeth into it, I may enjoy it more.
I voted L.A. Noire as my game of the year a couple of months back. I probably still stand by that. I have been very surprised - and impressed - with WWE '12's quality though, of which I'd perhaps consider the second best game of the year. I'm really loving WWE '12 right now. It's a game I can see myself playing right up until WWE '13 inevitably comes out.