As 2023 comes to a close and awards season approaches, it’s time to reflect on the video games that have been released this year. Not only have we have seen some critically acclaimed multi-platform games like Alan Wake 2, but exclusive titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, too have really shown off what their respective platforms are capable of.
It is safe to say that 2023 has been a great year for gaming, with top-rated titles coming out on all platforms. Both first-party and third-party games for PlayStation, Xbox/PC, and Nintendo have proven to be worthy contenders for Game of The Year. Here are five games from different genres and platforms that you should check out before the year is over:
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – PS5
A sequel to Marvel’s Spider-Man, this game is exclusive to the PlayStation 5 console. As a result, it features cutting-edge features such as ray-tracing, which is standard in all game modes, including performance, fidelity, and 40fps VRR. The game looks phenomenal, fast travel is incredibly quick, and the story is full of twists and turns. Spider-Man’s arch-nemeses, such as Venom, Lizard, Sandman, and Kraven the Hunter, join the list of antagonists you will fight in epic boss battles. If you own a PS5, Spider-Man 2 should be at the top of your list of games to play.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch
It is widely accepted that Nintendo is the undisputed master of platforming games. Super Mario Bros. Wonder takes this reputation to the next level by introducing mechanics that have never been seen before in a 2D Mario platformer. Wonder seeds found throughout the levels open up a whole new dimension of gameplay. The game is also visually stunning, with gorgeous art and music. Players can even transform into an elephant after consuming elephant fruit! Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a truly captivating and adorable adventure that can also be quite challenging, especially when trying to collect all the wonder flowers. It is a must-have for all Nintendo Switch owners.
Alan Wake 2 – PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Alan Wake was a brilliant game on all levels, from its gameplay to its overarching narrative. However, the sequel, Alan Wake 2, truly surpasses it in every way. The visuals are nothing short of extraordinary, and they are best appreciated on a good gaming PC. The story is a direct continuation of the first game, so players who have not played the original should play Alan Wake Remastered or watch a detailed recap before jumping into part 2. Alan Wake 2 delivers on many levels, but one thing to keep in mind is that it will only be released digitally, so there will be no physical disc for consoles. This is disappointing for collectors, but hopefully this will change in the future.
Final Fantasy XVI – PS5
Like other games in the series, this one features a standalone storyline as well—so you don’t need to have played any prior games to enjoy it. Throughout our playthrough of the game, we found it to be captivating both in terms of the storyline and gameplay. It narrates the tale of Clive Rosfield, who embarks on a quest to destroy all the Mother Crystals in Valisthea. This game features some of the most cinematic boss battles, brilliant Devil May Cry-like combat, and a storyline that is full of twists and turns—straight out of Game of Thrones. For now, the game is exclusive to the PS5.
The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch
The sequel to the critically acclaimed Breath of the Wild, this game offers endless possibilities in the vast world of Hyrule. It maintains the series’ formula while introducing new elements and extensive content. Just like Breath of the Wild, you have unimaginable freedom to explore the world, and this opens up an incredible amount of ways to play the game. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want, and how you want.
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