The Top Video Games of 2023 So Far: An Unforgettable Start to the Year

The first few months of 2023 have seen an impressive array of video games, showcasing the industry's creativity and technological advancements. While gamers eagerly anticipate the release of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Bethesda's Starfield later in the year, there's no shortage of engaging titles to keep them entertained for now. From offbeat indies to highly-anticipated sequels, these games have made the beginning of 2023 a time to remember.

Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon (Nintendo Switch)

Bayonetta, the fierce librarian who can summon monsters from her hair, gets an origin story in Bayonetta Origins. This new Switch title departs from the main series' flashy combo-based gameplay, opting for a more thoughtful, isometric Legend of Zelda-style approach. Players control a young Cereza and her demon-possessed cat companion, Cheshire, using their unique abilities to solve puzzles and defeat interdimensional foes. Bayonetta Origins demonstrates that even iconic characters can benefit from exploring different genres.

Horizon Call of the Mountain (PlayStation 5)

Although virtual reality (VR) hasn't quite broken into the mainstream, the release of PlayStation VR2 has rekindled interest in the technology. In Horizon Call of the Mountain, players experience the post-apocalyptic world of the Horizon series, where cyborg dinosaurs roam the remnants of the United States. This VR game offers an immersive, first-hand experience of scaling mountains and crafting weapons in a breathtaking environment. Call of the Mountain is a testament to the potential of VR in gaming.

Like a Dragon: Ishin! (PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S)

The Yakuza series has gained significant popularity in the West over the past few years, and Like a Dragon: Ishin! is no exception. Originally released in Japan in 2014, this westernized localization offers a unique blend of gripping storytelling and quirky humor. Set in 19th-century Japan, Ishin! is a spaghetti-western pastiche that explores themes of revenge and loyalty while maintaining the series' signature mini-games. Its recent release in English-speaking regions is a triumph for Yakuza fans.

Octopath Traveler II (Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows)

Octopath Traveler II builds upon its predecessor's enchanting art style and addresses criticisms of its combat and storytelling. The sequel features a more engaging narrative and a vibrant world with unique customs, traditions, and history. Players can choose from eight distinct characters, each with their own compelling stories and motivations. Octopath Traveler II has successfully transformed its world from a mere visual spectacle into a living, breathing universe for players to explore.

Metroid Prime Remastered (Nintendo Switch)

Metroid Prime, a classic GameCube title from 2002, receives a high-definition remaster on the Nintendo Switch, allowing fans to relive the atmospheric adventure of Samus Aran. The remastered version retains the original's sense of isolation and exploration, offering a fresh experience for both new and returning players. Metroid Prime Remastered serves as a nostalgic reminder of the franchise's roots and its lasting appeal.

Dead Space (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows)

EA's Dead Space franchise returns with a modern remake of the 2008 original, complete with updated textures and animations. The game transports players to a derelict space station teeming with terrifying parasites, expertly blending horror, suspense, and storytelling. Dead Space is a welcome reminder of a time when single-player, linear survival-horror games were a staple of the gaming landscape, and its return is sure to please fans of the genre.

Pizza Tower (Microsoft Windows)

Indie developers often draw inspiration from the games they loved in their youth, and Pizza Tower is no exception. Taking cues from the Wario Land series, this game replaces Wario with a zany pizza chef lost in a bizarre, hand-drawn world reminiscent of Ren & Stimpy. The game combines nostalgic gameplay with modern processing power, resulting in a polished and entertaining indie title that pays homage to a beloved classic.

Hi-Fi Rush (Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Cloud Gaming)

Tango Gameworks, known for their work on The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo, surprises gamers with Hi-Fi Rush, a vibrant, cel-shaded action game. Combining fast-paced combat with a catchy pop-punk soundtrack, Hi-Fi Rush offers a fresh take on the beat-matching gameplay, creating a unique and engaging experience. This unexpected release demonstrates the versatility of the development team and their ability to captivate players across genres.

Fire Emblem Engage (Nintendo Switch)

Fire Emblem Engage takes the series back to its tactical roots, focusing on strategy and unit management. In contrast to the more narrative-driven Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Engage prioritizes tactical gameplay, offering players challenging puzzles perfect for shorter gaming sessions. This return to form is a welcome change for fans who prefer a more traditional Fire Emblem experience.

Conclusion:

The first few months of 2023 have provided gamers with an incredible assortment of games to enjoy. From exploring the origins of iconic characters like Bayonetta to reimagining classic franchises with titles like Dead Space, this year has started with a bang. As we look forward to the release of major titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Starfield, we can appreciate the diverse range of games that have already made their mark in 2023. It's been an unforgettable start to the year, and we can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for the gaming world.