With titles like Final Fantasy XVI, Diablo IV, and Starfield still on the horizon, 2023 is turning into quite a year for gaming. We’re not even halfway into the calendar year and we’ve already had a handful of fantastic titles, from action-horror to real-time strategy and more. Here are our picks for the best games of 2023 so far.
Resident Evil 4
Of course, where else to start than with Capcom’s celebrated remake of the iconic survival-horror classic? The enhanced visual fidelity and modernized gameplay of this atmospheric title certainly didn’t disappoint fans. The merchant’s side quests are a nice addition, while the variety of replayability options, cosmetic items, and glorious special weapons make the experience addictive and easy to revisit. The new essential way to experience one of gaming’s most influential and revered titles.
Dead Space
2023 may seem like the year of remakes, but you can’t argue with the quality of these titles. Back-to-back, gamers have been able to relive two iconic horror games in a new light. Like Resident Evil 4, the fresh coat of paint and overhauled gameplay is a delight to experience. Considered by many to be one of the 360 generation’s finest games, there’s never been a better time to experience it if you missed out. Or simply subject yourself to the nightmarish horror all over again! If you like your games bloody and horrifying, you won’t want to miss this 2023 hit.
Octopath Traveler II
A sharp left turn from gruesome, atmospheric body horror to delightful, old-school JPRG charm. This eagerly awaited follow-up to Square Enix’s 2018 hit has gone down wonderfully with critics and fans. Standing at a comfortable Overwhelming Positive on Steam, it’s clear that people have quickly warmed to the game’s pixel art, wonderful music, and variety of characters and party members. With superb music that you won’t be able to get out of your head, to rich turn-based combat, this is guaranteed to be a hit with JRPG lovers.
Company of Heroes 3
After ten long years, Relic and Sega have finally delivered the third entry in their beloved Company of Heroes series. While Company of Heroes 2 saw players battling it out on the fields of the Eastern Front, here you’ll fight your way across the plains of Africa and throughout Italy. With a traditional level-based campaign and a more experimental one with a 4X type map, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into. The streamlined gameplay and satisfying combat make this a gripping strategy title not to miss.
Hi-Fi Rush
A total surprise from Evil Within developers Tango Gameworks. Few were expecting a bright, vibrant rhythm-combat game from the studio with Resident Evil lineage. If you like stunning visuals and gripping rhythm-based gameplay, where everything moves in time with the music, then check out Hi-Fi Rush. Certainly one of the biggest surprises of 2023 so far, this is another title with Overwhelming Positive on Steam.
We’re only halfway through 2023, but already we’ve had a myriad of surprises, long-awaited titles, and thrilling remakes. The year still has some highly-anticipated titles on the horizon, so we’ll have to check back at the end of the year and so how this list has changed. It’s proved to be an amazing time for 2023 games, though!