Top 10 Video Games of 2023
2023, a year that echoes the resilience of the gaming realm after pandemic-induced setbacks. Beyond the shadow of COVID-related delays, this year emerges as a phoenix with major releases, quirky indies, revered remasters, and overdue sequels. It’s a contender for the Gaming Hall of fame, and we’re about to explore the top 10 games that define this exceptional year.
10. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (PlayStation 5)
Insomniac’s Spider-Man games remain a reliable joy. Spider-Man 2, while not groundbreaking, sticks to its acrobatic combat and comforting familiarity. Swing through New York, fight crime, and engage in another Marvel tale with beloved characters.
9. Lies of P (Multi-platform)
In a clockwork Dickensian world, Lies of P brings a Dark Souls twist. Complex combat, cryptic NPCs, and terrifying bosses in a dark Victorian setting create a satisfying challenge. It’s a game for those who crave a journey with a unique flavor.
8. Resident Evil IV (Multi-platform)
Resident Evil IV, a classic reborn, showcases the evolution of the franchise. Remastered in 4K, it brings back tight gunplay while facing aquatic behemoths and deranged cultists. It is a visually stunning revisit to one of the series’ greatest titles.
7. Pikmin 4 (Nintendo Switch)
Nintendo’s Pikmin series returns after a decade with Pikmin 4. As an inch-tall alien explorer, command adorable Pikmin to retrieve “treasure” in a real-time strategy game. While not stealing the spotlight, Pikmin 4 offers a delightful and strategic experience.
6. Pizza Tower (Microsoft Windows)
Inspired by the Wario Land series, Pizza Tower puts you in the shoes of a madcap pizza chef navigating a quirky universe. With momentum reminiscent of classic games, Pizza Tower showcases the impact of modern processing power on a nostalgic concept, making it a delightful indie gem.
5. System Shock (Multi-platform)
System Shock, a 1994 classic, gets a modern makeover from Nightdive Studios. The slow-paced, atmospheric campaign gets a fresh coat of paint, proving that some games are timeless with a modern sheen.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Nintendo Switch)
Nintendo redefines the Zelda formula with Tears of the Kingdom. Building on Breath of the Wild, this sequel offers an even more expansive scope. Tears of the Kingdom solidifies Nintendo’s ability to reinvent classic franchises.
3. Alan Wake 2 (Multi-platform)
Alan Wake 2, a psychological detective adventure, builds on the suspenseful atmosphere. With a broader scope and trademark clammy weirdness, Alan Wake 2 creates an immersive experience.
2. Street Fighter 6 (Multi-platform)
Street Fighter 6 takes bold risks by introducing a Yakuza-like RPG campaign and a multiplayer salon. Modernizing classic fighting mechanics while simplifying special moves, Street Fighter 6 offers a captivating and vibrant experience.
1. Baldur’s Gate 3 (Multi-platform)
Larian Studios cements its status with Baldur’s Gate 3, seamlessly translating Dungeons & Dragons into a digital realm. Blurring the lines between tabletop and digital gaming, Baldur’s Gate 3 achieves triumph in storytelling and immersion.
Honorable Mentions: A Closer Look at Noteworthy Titles
1. Super Mario Bros. Wonder (Nintendo Switch)
Super Mario Bros. Wonder returns to the 2-D format, injecting unpredictability with the Wonder Flower. Nintendo proves that innovation breathes new life into established franchises.
2. Cocoon (Multi-platform)
Annapurna Interactive’s Cocoon takes players on a mesmerizing journey as a dinky insectoid creature in an alien universe. Cocoon emphasizes the sense of smallness in a vast world, offering a unique and contemplative gaming experience.
3. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (Multi-platform)
CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is like a gaming phoenix rising from the ashes. It’s their way of saying, “Hey, we’re back!” Packed with a mature spy thriller narrative, tech upgrades, and more RPG goodness, Phantom Liberty is a bold statement of the studio’s commitment to giving players a top-notch experience.
4. Mortal Kombat 1 (Multi-platform)
NetherRealm Studios dives deep into the saga with Mortal Kombat 1, hitting the reboot button on the series timeline. Picture this: the single-player campaign unfolds like a blockbuster animated feature, proving NetherRealm’s dedication to weaving gripping narratives into the chaos of brutal, fighting gameplay.
5. Starfield (Multi-platform)
After what feels like forever in the making, Starfield lands on our gaming horizon. Bethesda brings their open-world RPG magic to the outer reaches of the Milky Way. Sure, it might not reinvent the design wheel, but it sure brings back that enchanting vibe that pulls players into vast, unexplored galaxies.
Final Thoughts
Taking a step back and looking at the gaming wonders of 2023, it’s crystal clear that this year has spoiled us rotten with exceptional experiences. Whether you’re vibing with remastered classics or diving into the creative depths of indie gems, the gaming world just keeps getting better. As we eagerly await future game announcements, 2023 will undoubtedly go down in history as a legendary chapter in the ongoing story of video game awesomeness. Game on!
