I have to say after so many years of video gaming, 2023 comes across to me as one of the finest years of not just remakes titles, but also of new-kids-on-the-block comers. This will definitely only give us much more choices down the road. In this current era where so many media occupy our time, which 2023 games are worth your time? We do hope that the below will help to narrow down your choices depending on your preferred type of genre.
Best Open-World Game
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
IGN (10/10) | GameSpot (10/10) | PC Mag (5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
This long-awaited sequel to Breath of the Wild finally arrived in 2023, and it managed to exceed all expectations, no mean feat considering the predecessorBreath of the Wild was one of the best Zelda games ever. Yes, I used the word “was”. Massive sky islands designed with beautiful art are now explorable and creativity has also been taken to the next level which Nintendo has added in the Zonai devices to allow players to create various vehicles and constructs to tackle the world of Hyrule. Zelda fan or not, Tears of the Kingdom is a definite good addition to your Switch games collection.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (6/10) | PC Gamer (77%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC / Amazon Luna
Journey to 9th century Baghdad this time round to become the ultimate assassin. I have to confess, coming on the heeds of the massively successful Origins and Odyssey will never be easy. Great additions to the game would be allowing players multiple ways to engage the target compared to earlier series as well as the use of “tokens” that will allow you to pay for assistance within the game. All-in-all Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a fine addition to the series.
Hogwarts Legacy
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (6/10) | PC Gamer (83%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Potters fans rejoice, explore the wizarding world like never before! Taking place long before the events of the book series, you step into Hogwarts as a fifth-year student with dreams to become the greatest wizard yet. Hidden passages, puzzles, and collectible treasures coupled with Spellbinding Combat just makes this game so memorable. A must-play for Harry Potter fans and RPG enthusiasts alike.
Avatar Frontiers of Pandora
IGN (7/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (50%)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC / Amazon Luna
Immerse yourself into the breathtaking world of Pandora as it is brought to life with stunning graphics. Frontiers of Pandora takes place on the new continent of the Western Frontier. You get to create your own Na’vi, tailoring their appearance and skin markings to reflect your unique identity. You can also eventually unlock various abilities and skills, as well as customizing your approach to combat and exploration.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (55%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS5
The sequel to the critically acclaimed Spider-Man: Miles Morales, it promises to be even bigger and better than the first game. Get to play as Peter Parker or Miles Morales, and even Mary Jane and Venom in certain missions. A bigger and more vibrant New York City filled with new districts, landmarks, and secrets plus familiar villains new and old such as Venom, Kraven the Hunter, Mysterio and even Scream makes this game one of the best ever yet.
Best 16-Bit style Game
Sea of Stars
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Gamer (79%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Sea of Stars is a Chrono Trigger and Secret of Mana inspired classic SNES RPG. You star as a Solstice Warrior capable of wielding the powerful Eclipse Magic. The detailed pixel art is stunning with memorable characters that have their own unique past and personality.
Octopath Traveler 2
IGN (7/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (76%)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Developed by Square Enix, the same company that brings us Final Fantasy, Octopath Traveler II is one of the best modern JRPGs of all time. The third in the series which takes place in the enchanting world of Solistia where you will walk the path of 8 different travelers. Stunning art style and satisfying Character Progression makes it a worthy successor.
Blasphemous 2
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Castlevania inspired Blasphemous holds its own with fantastic combat and compelling narrative twists that keeps you on your toes. It’s a punishing yet rewarding experience for those who crave dark fantasy at its most unforgiving, with intricate exploration, memorable boss battles, and a story dripping in cryptic intrigue.
Best Horror Game
Resident Evil 4 Remake
IGN (10/10) | GameSpot (10/10) | PC Gamer (80%) | PC Mag (5/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
(PS5/PS4/Xbox Series X|S/PC) The game that started the zombie horror genre. Not only that, RE4 was frequently suggested as the best Resident Evil game in its series ever. Refined gameplay coupled with stunning visuals upgrade makes this a must play for fans of both original and survival horror.
Alan Wake 2
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (10/10) | PC Gamer (88%)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
This long-awaited sequel to the psychological thriller finally arrived in 2023, and it’s even more atmospheric and suspenseful than the original. With its Twin Peaks-inspired setting and Remedy’s signature storytelling, Alan Wake 2 is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing it.
Dead Space remake
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Gamer (84%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
One of the scariest games when it first came out back in 2008, the remake version is a faithful adaptation with great tweaks to breathe new life into this iconic game. Enhanced visuals and attention to details make the environment and the Necromorphs more horrifying than ever, while the revamped weapon crafting system lets you personalize your plasma cutter to carve apart Necromorphs in gruesomely satisfying ways.
Best fighting Game
Mortal Kombat 1
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (70%) | PC Mag (4.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Welcome back to the gruesome arena of Mortal Kombat, where this is the second reboot of the Mortal Kombat series. This time round, Liu Kang takes on the role of Keeper of Time and has to face off a powerful adversary. The latest new game changing feature will have to be the Kameo fighters, which you can pair with to attack or extend a combo. This gives so much flexibility and alternatives than ever before.
Street Fighter 6
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Gamer (89%) | PC Mag (5/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Hadouken! The latest entry in the long-running fighting game series features a new cast of characters, new boss, new mechanics, and stunning visuals. 6 new characters and 4 DLC characters will make you spoilt for choices while the new World tour mode allows you to customize and build your very own SF character avatar.
Best First Person Shooter (FPS) game
Trepang2
IGN (8/10)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC | Amazon Luna
A F.E.A.R liked style FPS is a delight for gamers who like fast-paced action shooter games. The shortage of satisfying storytelling is more than compensated by its action pack gunplays while the amazing soundtracks add a more terrifying atmosphere to the well designed backgrounds.
Ghostrunner 2
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (7/10) | PC Gamer (65%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
Sink into the cyberpunk type of post-apocalyptic world in Ghostrunner 2 as it builds on its storytelling and of course, its new weapons and abilities that allows gamers to be more creative in their skills. As a metallic ninja, you can use katanas, throw shurikens and even ride bikes.
Metroid Prime Remastered
IGN (10/10) | PC Mag (5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Another blockbuster game having a titanic facelift in both graphics and its gameplay. Have always loved the visors effect, giving that kind of VR feel. Environments pulsate with detail, textures are crisp, and lighting creates a stunning atmosphere. Metroid Prime Remastered is a shining example of how to do a remaster right. It retains the soul of the classic while making it more accessible for modern audiences.
Best Family Game
Super Mario RPG
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Another remake from its original version way back in 1996 where you will return to the graphically enhanced Mushroom Kingdom. This is the RPG version of Super Mario with that JRPG format typical of Square Enix’s style. The updated cinematics greatly improves the charm between Mario, Peach and Bowser.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Mag (4.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
The side-scrolling game that started it all to kick start Super Mario’s legacy. It is also the fastest-selling Super Mario game of all time. You get to control up to 8 characters such as Mario, Luigi, Toad, Princess Peach and Daisy, Nabbit, Yoshi and Toadette. Nintendo has also added various new power-ups such as elephant changing fruit as well as the hat drilling mushroom and bubble creating flower.
Action
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (80%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
The sequel to Fallen Order picks up five years after the events of the first game, and it sees Cal Kestis and his crew on a new adventure to find more Jedi and rebuild the Order. Enhance your Jedi fighting skills using new abilities like Force Pull and Slow Time. Enjoy the breathtaking visuals and stunning environments as you immerse yourself once more into the world of Star Wars.
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
The game delves into Cereza’s childhood, exploring themes of loss, grief, and self-discovery. The game adopts a watercolor storybook aesthetic that beautifully brings the fantasy world to life. If you want a relatively shorter duration game to complete, then this is one not to be missed.
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (87%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
The game is set in a future where humans have homes everywhere in the galaxy. On the planet Rubicon, an energy substance called Coral was discovered that led to many fractions fighting for it. If you are someone that likes to tinker on things then this is definitely for you, as there are so many ways for gamer to customize your mech for your playstyle.
Hi-Fi Rush
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Gamer (69%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
A new kid on the block, you step into the shoes of Chai, a wannabe rockstar who, thanks to a freak accident during an experimental cybernetic surgery, gets his music player fused with his chest. Hi-Fi Rush is a rhythm-infused action game with a refreshing blast of energy in the gaming landscape, offering fun and accessible combat, a charming cast, and a vibrant world to explore. It even includes soundtracks of licensed songs.
RPG
Baldur’s Gate 3
IGN (10/10) | GameSpot (10/10) | PC Gamer (97%) | PC Mag (5/5)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
Finally, after 23 years since Baldur’s Gate 2 came out, was this worth the wait. Deep story-telling, endless possibilities and flexibility for character customization makes you want to keep playing for more. Easily 50+ hours for main objective completion and 100+ hours for full, prepare to sacrifice your social life.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R
IGN (8.8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / PC
One of THE JRPG around for the longest time, this version is an excellent remake. Its 2.5D graphics are a beautiful blend of hand-drawn characters and 3D rich and detailed environments. The game also features a deep item creation system, allowing you to craft your own weapons, armor, and accessories, while the soundtrack features a mix of new and remixed tracks from the original game.
Action-RPG
Lies of P
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (74%)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Soulslike mix with Bloodborne, what attracts me most are the twists along the way while not being overbearingly challenging. Taking on and reimagining the classic Pinocchio story, where humanity has been transformed into monstrous puppets. If you like gothic themes then this is for you.
Final Fantasy 16
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (9/10) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS5 / PC
It has been a long 7 years wait for this since FF XV first came out. You will visit Valisthea, the game’s world, where it is a dying land choked by crystallized blight and ravaged by Dominants – humans possessed by monstrous Eikons, powerful summons that fuel the conflict between nations. Continuing the fast-paced action driven system, this version of FInal Fantasy is as dark as it gets.
Diablo 4
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (85%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
The game is set in the fictional world of Sanctuary, 50 years after the events of Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls. Players take on the role of a Nephalem, a human-angel hybrid, who must fight against Lilith, daughter of Mephisto and the creator of the Sanctuary realm. A more open-world concept with enhanced graphics and branching storylines with choices that can impact the world and the characters.
Remnant 2
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (7/10) | PC Gamer (84%)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
Fans of this game don’t call it the “Dark Souls with guns” for nothing, this third-person shooter packs a punch in both world design and co-op fun. The game takes place on a post-apocalyptic Earth where you need to defeat this interdimensional evil creature known as Root. A highly enjoyable looter-shooter game with innovative elements.
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (10/10) | PC Gamer (87%) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
Started out wrongly but ending it strongly, this addition is HUGE. With new characters, and new weapons to the game, Phantom Liberty is a great way to return to Night City and experience more of what Cyberpunk 2077 has to offer.
Starfield
IGN (7/10) | GameSpot (7/10) | PC Gamer (75%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: Xbox Series X|S / PC
With 1,000 star systems to visit, the sheer scale of the game is impressive. What is worth the time is the stunning environments and atmospheric world-building coupon with the various multiple ways of customizing your spaceship that really makes it stand out. Hey this is by Bethesda no?
Strategy Game
Age of Wonders 4
IGN (8/10) | PC Gamer (87%)
Available on: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / PC
From the same developer which brought us the award winning Crusader Kings, Age of Wonders 4 is akin to the fantasy version of Civilization game. The learning curve may be slightly steep, but once you master it, you will get to enjoy the full range of customization options.
Total War: Pharaoh
IGN (8/10) | PC Gamer (80%) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: PC
This latest edition brings you back to the good old Egyptian days, leading iconic pharaohs like Ramesses II or Akhenaten through historically inspired campaigns, managing diplomacy, trade, and military prowess to unify Egypt. You will be well trained to manage resources to build your cities and army in order to conquer the land.
Company of Heroes 3
IGN (8/10) | PC Gamer (82%)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
You will be taking on the role of Allied Forces during the World War 2 period on their invasion of Italy and Axis forces. While it is a real-time strategy game, the new feature such as Tactical Pause system allows players to plan and queue up their commands. Another great system of COH3 is the dynamism of its storytelling, where the ending is influenced by the gamer’s interactions with the various commanders along the way.
Tactical Games
Persona 5 Tactica
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (8/10) | PC Gamer (92%) | PC Mag (4.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch / PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One | Xbox Series X|S / PC
Everyone’s favorite Persona game in tactical RPG style. Its familiar soundtrack and mechanics will quickly ease gamers in. Even if you are new, it will not be overly complex to learn and enjoy. Use this to fill the gap before Persona 6 is out.
Advance Wars 1 + 2: Re-Boot Camp
IGN (8/10) | GameSpot (7/10) | PC Mag (4/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
One of my first tactical games since it was released back in 2001 on the Game Boy Advance. This reboot with Modernized visuals and music breathes new life into the nostalgic charm of the originals. New features that particularly stand out are the online multiplayer and map editor, where you can build your own maps for extra replayability.
Fire Emblem Engage
IGN (9/10) | GameSpot (7/10) | PC Mag (3.5/5)
Available on: Nintendo Switch
The latest entry in the beloved Fire Emblem series and a worthy successor to the famed Fire Emblem: Three Houses, which was one of the most successful Fire Emblem games. Playing as a god in the game, you can imagine how the game will evolve around the residents of the world. The innovative Emblem Ring mechanic, captivating story, and visually stunning presentation elevate the experience, offering both strategic depth and emotional resonance.
