2023 has brought us a wave of daring and wonderful video games that have pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling. From fantastical adventures to bizarre simulations, this year has been filled with unique and captivating experiences. While there are still many highly anticipated releases to come, it’s important to appreciate the smaller gems that have already made their mark.
Final Fantasy 16: A Lavish and Action-Packed Adventure
Final Fantasy 16 takes players on a lavish and action-packed adventure in a world filled with palace intrigue, epic battles, and magical creatures. The game’s broody protagonist, Clive Rosfield, embarks on a quest for revenge after his family’s legacy is destroyed. With stunning visuals and exhilarating combat, Final Fantasy 16 is a must-play for fans of the series.
Dave the Diver: Fishing, Sushi, and Underwater Mysteries
Dave the Diver combines fishing, restaurant management, and underwater exploration in a delightful and quirky package. As Dave, players dive into the mysterious Blue Hole, encountering sea life, helping out eccentric characters, and even racing seahorses with mermaids. With its charming gameplay loop and surprising variety of activities, Dave the Diver is a hidden gem.
Battlebit Remastered: A Blocky Battlefield Experience
Battlebit Remastered captures the spirit of classic Battlefield games with its large-scale combat and intense sandbox gameplay. While the graphics may be simple, the gameplay is top-notch, offering a mix of realistic mechanics and arcade-style fun. With ongoing development, Battlebit Remastered has the potential to become one of the best Battlefield games in years.
Diablo 4: A Living Game Done Right
Diablo 4 sets a new standard for “living games” with its deep RPG systems, engaging story, and expansive world. Unlike other games in the genre, Diablo 4 offers a complete and satisfying experience right from the start, with plenty of content to keep players invested for hundreds of hours. With multiple expansions planned, the future looks bright for this action-packed ARPG.
Amnesia: The Bunker: A Terrifying Descent into Madness
Amnesia: The Bunker is a haunting and intense horror game that takes place in an abandoned bunker sealed during World War I. As you navigate the dark corridors, you must collect resources, solve puzzles, and avoid a terrifying monster that lurks in the shadows. With its atmospheric setting and heart-pounding gameplay, Amnesia: The Bunker is a must-play for horror fans.
Super Mega Baseball 4: Arcade-Style Fun on the Diamond
Super Mega Baseball 4 brings the joy of baseball to life with its arcade-style gameplay and humorous presentation. With over 200 real-life ballplayers to choose from, players can build their dream team and compete in a variety of game modes. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for some lighthearted fun, Super Mega Baseball 4 delivers.
Street Fighter 6: The Ultimate Fighting Game Toolbox
Street Fighter 6 is a love letter to fighting game fans, offering a wealth of content and a deep combat system. With its extensive character roster, detailed tutorials, and excellent netplay, Street Fighter 6 is one of the most accessible and enjoyable fighting games on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the genre, Street Fighter 6 has something for everyone.
System Shock: A Remake Done Right
System Shock is a masterful remake that updates the classic 1994 game with modern visuals and gameplay while staying true to its roots. The game’s atmospheric setting and immersive storytelling make it a must-play for fans of the original and newcomers alike. With its blend of action, exploration, and horror, System Shock is a standout title in the immersive sim genre.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom: A Breathtaking Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a breathtaking adventure that builds upon the success of its predecessor, Breath of the Wild. With its expansive open world, innovative gameplay mechanics, and emotionally charged narrative, Tears of the Kingdom is a must-play for fans of the series. Whether you’re exploring familiar landscapes or uncovering new mysteries, this game promises an unforgettable journey.
Laya’s Horizon: High-Speed Gliding and Exploration
Laya’s Horizon takes players on a high-speed gliding adventure through a stunning open world. With its unique pie chart map system and exhilarating gameplay, Laya’s Horizon offers a fresh take on open-world exploration. Whether you’re soaring through the skies or discovering hidden secrets, this game is a visual and auditory delight.
Age of Wonders 4: A Deep and Nuanced Strategy Game
Age of Wonders 4 combines the best elements of 4X and grand strategy games to create a deep and engaging experience. With its intricate empire-building mechanics and compelling narratives, Age of Wonders 4 offers endless hours of strategic gameplay. Whether you’re conquering new territories or forging alliances, this game will keep you hooked.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor: A Thrilling and Immersive Adventure
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor takes players on a thrilling and immersive journey through the Star Wars universe. With its action-packed combat, rich storytelling, and stunning visuals, Survivor captures the essence of what makes Star Wars so beloved. Whether you’re battling enemies with a lightsaber or exploring iconic locations, this game is a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Mr. Sun’s Hatbox: Fishing, Sushi, and Underwater Adventures
Mr. Sun’s Hatbox combines fishing, sushi-making, and underwater exploration in a delightful and quirky package. With its charming characters, addictive gameplay loop, and unexpected activities, Mr. Sun’s Hatbox offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re diving into the depths of the ocean or serving up delicious sushi, this game is full of surprises.
Dredge: A Fishing Horror Experience
Dredge is a unique fusion of fishing and horror, taking players on a thrilling and terrifying journey. As you navigate treacherous waters and battle deadly sea creatures, Dredge delivers a one-of-a-kind fishing horror experience. With its atmospheric setting and innovative gameplay mechanics, this game is a must-play for fans of both genres.
Misericorde: A Haunting and Intriguing Visual Novel
Misericorde is a haunting and intriguing visual novel that immerses players in a world of mystery and suspense. With its captivating story and well-developed characters, Misericorde offers a unique narrative experience. Whether you’re uncovering dark secrets or solving complex puzzles, this game will keep you hooked until the very end.
Resident Evil 4 Remake: A Fresh Take on a Horror Classic
Resident Evil 4 Remake breathes new life into the beloved horror classic, offering updated visuals and gameplay while staying true to the original’s terrifying atmosphere. With its intense combat, immersive storytelling, and iconic enemies, Resident Evil 4 Remake is a must-play for fans of the series. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime fan, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Tchia: An Open-World Adventure Filled with Possibilities
Tchia is an open-world adventure game that invites players to explore a vibrant and magical world inspired by New Caledonia. With its unique shapeshifting mechanics and captivating storytelling, Tchia offers a fresh take on the genre. Whether you’re gliding through the air or transforming into different objects, this game promises a truly immersive experience.
Patch Quest: A Charming and Addictive Adventure
Patch Quest combines monster-taming, exploration, and roguelike elements in a charming and addictive package. With its delightful pixel art, strategic gameplay, and endless variety, Patch Quest offers hours of fun and excitement. Whether you’re capturing cute creatures or embarking on epic quests, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo: A Gripping Mystery
Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo is a gripping mystery game that immerses players in a world of urban legends and supernatural phenomena. With its compelling narrative and atmospheric setting, Paranormasight offers a unique and thrilling experience. Whether you’re solving puzzles or uncovering dark secrets, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Phantom Brigade: A Unique Blend of Tactics and Mecha
Phantom Brigade offers a unique blend of tactical combat and mecha warfare, allowing players to plan their moves in advance and watch the action unfold in real-time. With its deep customization options and intense battles, Phantom Brigade is a must-play for fans of strategy games. Whether you’re commanding a squad of mechs or outmaneuvering your enemies, this game offers endless strategic possibilities.
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty: A Thrilling Mecha Adventure
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty combines the intense battles of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice with the rich lore of Three Kingdoms-era China. With its challenging combat, stunning visuals, and epic boss fights, Wo Long delivers a thrilling mecha adventure. Whether you’re wielding a sword or unleashing devastating attacks, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Company of Heroes 3: A Fresh Take on Real-Time Strategy
Company of Heroes 3 revitalizes the real-time strategy genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive storytelling. With its tactical pause option and turn-based overworld map, Company of Heroes 3 offers a fresh take on the genre. Whether you’re commanding armies or capturing key installations, this game will keep you engaged for hours on end.
Octopath Traveler 2: A Captivating and Diverse RPG
Octopath Traveler 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering a captivating and diverse RPG experience. With its unique storytelling approach and deep combat system, Octopath Traveler 2 is a must-play for fans of the series. Whether you’re embarking on individual character quests or unraveling the overarching narrative, this game promises an unforgettable journey.
Metroid Prime Remastered: A Classic Adventure Reimagined
Metroid Prime Remastered brings the classic 2002 adventure to life with updated visuals and gameplay. With its immersive first-person perspective and atmospheric setting, Metroid Prime Remastered is a must-play for fans of the series. Whether you’re exploring alien worlds or battling fearsome creatures, this game offers a thrilling and nostalgic experience.
Season: A Letter to the Future: A Beautiful and Thought-Provoking Adventure
Season: A Letter to the Future takes players on a beautiful and thought-provoking adventure set in a world on the brink of change. With its stunning visuals and evocative storytelling, Season offers a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re documenting the end of an era or uncovering hidden secrets, this game will leave a lasting impression.
Fire Emblem Engage: A Strategy Game for Tactical Enthusiasts
Fire Emblem Engage caters to tactical enthusiasts with its deep combat mechanics and engaging gameplay. With its extensive character roster and customizable decks, Fire Emblem Engage offers endless strategic possibilities. Whether you’re commanding armies or forging alliances, this game will put your tactical skills to the test.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns: A Thrilling Blend of Strategy and Superheroes
Marvel’s Midnight Suns combines strategy and superheroes in a thrilling and immersive experience. With its card-based combat system and diverse cast of characters, Midnight Suns offers endless strategic possibilities. Whether you’re battling iconic villains or unraveling a complex narrative, this game is a must-play for Marvel fans.
Source: polygon
