The world of gaming is more thrilling than ever in 2023, with diverse and immersive titles coming to a wide range of platforms. From expansive open worlds to intimate indie experiences, there’s a game out there for every taste. These are the most exciting, must-play video games releasing in 2023.
Experience Blockbuster Action in Cinematic Worlds
For adrenaline-pumping adventure on a grand scale, look no further than 2023’s lineup of action-packed games. These titles put you in the shoes of bold heroes, immerse you in rich storytelling, and let you unleash spectacular abilities against thrilling challenges.
Starfield: Journey to the Farthest Reaches of Space
The highly anticipated new IP from Bethesda Game Studios, Starfield brings the studio’s expertise in open worlds to an entirely new frontier. As a member of Constellation, explore a vast array of procedurally generated planets and engage in an epic main quest across multiple star systems. With next-gen graphics, in-depth character progression, and seamless transitions from planet to space, Starfield promises to be an action-RPG of staggering scope.
Alan Wake 2: Return to Bright Falls
Remedy Entertainment brings back acclaimed writer Alan Wake in this eerie psychological thriller. Set years after the events of the original game, Alan Wake 2 sees Wake return to the Pacific Northwestern town of Bright Falls, where the line between reality and fiction begins to blur. With a focus on survival horror and combat, Alan must confront his past while trying to make sense of a dark mystery.
Assassin's Creed Mirage: Master the Art of Stealth
The Assassin’s Creed franchise returns to its stealth roots with Mirage. Set in 9th century Baghdad, the game puts players in the shoes of Basim, a cunning street thief with mysterious origins. With a renewed emphasis on parkour, close-quarters combat, and assassinations, Mirage evokes the classic feel of early Assassin’s Creed games. Explore the vibrant open world of the Golden Age of Islam and uncover secrets as the Brotherhood of Assassins emerges.
Experience Fantastical Journeys in Stunning RPG Worlds
Role-playing games allow you to step into wondrous realms and shape unique characters. The best RPGs of 2023 let you embark on magical quests, build relationships, and grow your skills in richly detailed settings.
Baldur's Gate 3: D&D Comes to Life
The long-awaited next chapter in the classic Baldur’s Gate series brings the beloved tabletop experience to life like never before. Developed by Larian Studios, Baldur’s Gate 3 immerses you in the Forgotten Realms using Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition rules. With unparalleled freedom in character creation, tactical turn-based combat, fully voiced characters, and reactive stories, this RPG brings unprecedented authenticity to D&D on PC and consoles.
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty: Return to Night City
CD Projekt Red revisits its unique sci-fi metropolis with Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, an expansive story expansion starring fan favorite V. Set in an all-new district of Night City, the DLC adds numerous hours of narrative content, new weapons and cyberware, and fresh characters to meet. With bug fixes and optimizations powering the underlying game, it’s the perfect time to dive back into Cyberpunk 2077’s gritty future.
Lies of P: A Dark Reimagining of Pinocchio
Neowiz paints a gothic portrait of the classic puppet hero in this action RPG. Set in the fictional city of Krat, you play as Pinocchio on a quest to become human by finding Geppetto. With bloodborne-esque combat and a progression system tied to lies and morality, Lies of P takes the familiar fable to dark new places. The intricate world and challenging enemies make this one of the most exciting RPGs coming in 2023.
Challenge Your Mind and Strategize Your Success
Flex your mental muscles with 2023’s standout strategy and simulation titles. These games let you test your planning skills, optimize complex systems, and think creatively to overcome challenges.
Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp: Revamped Tactics
Dual-screen tactics series Advance Wars makes its explosive console debut with this remastered collection. Including both the original Game Boy Advance classics, Re-Boot Camp adds HD graphics, online multiplayer, and quality of life improvements while maintaining the rock-paper-scissors unit design and captivating campaign. With its approachable yet deeply strategic gameplay, this is the perfect starting point for new commanders.
Age of Wonders 4: Grand Fantasy Strategy
The venerable Age of Wonders series returns to its 4X roots with expansive fantasy worldbuilding and strategic empire management. Choose from races like dwarves, orcs, and humans, each with unique units and abilities. Dynamic magic and skill systems let you tailor your playstyle, while tri-realm tactical battles require smart positioning and use of terrain. Rule your kingdom and wage war against massive mythical creatures in this strategy epic.
Company of Heroes 3: WWII Tactics Perfected
The acclaimed WWII RTS franchise charges into battle on Mediterranean shores with this tactical masterpiece. Dynamic campaign progression sees you make key decisions across a strategic overlay map, while battles unfold in stunning detail. Combined arms warfare demands tight coordination of infantry, vehicles, and support abilities. With four playable factions, destructible environments, and challenging AI, Company of Heroes 3 represents the pinnacle of WWII strategy games.
Relax and Unwind with Charming Indie Hits
For breezy fun or captivating stories on a smaller scale, indie games deliver bite-sized experiences often left out of bigger titles. These lower-budget hits punch above their weight with innovative ideas, memorable characters, and plenty of heart.
Pikmin 4: A Delightful Return
The long-dormant Pikmin series finally sprouts up on Switch with Pikmin 4. Explore nature-themed alien planets and solve environmental puzzles by directing hordes of adorable Pikmin creatures with unique abilities. New upgrades like chain throwing and lock-on targeting improve the real-time strategy mechanics. With gorgeous landscapes and charming visuals, this is the perfect light-hearted adventure for fans of all ages.
Metroid Prime Remastered: Samus Aran’s GameCube Classic Reborn
Nintendo revives Samus Aran’s beloved first 3D adventure with this Switch remaster. Metroid Prime set the gold standard for immersive first-person exploration and intricate world design. With polished widescreen visuals and intuitive modern controls, the remaster makes this moody sci-fi masterpiece feel fresh again. Newcomers and series veterans alike can experience Samus’ iconic debut in the Prime trilogy.
Dredge: Fishing Takes a Turn for the Weird
From the makers of cult hit Golf Story comes this quirky fishing RPG adventure. In Dredge, you’ll hook sea creatures that become weapons and tools for battling enemies and navigating obstacles across a flooded world. With a story spanning 150 handcrafted levels, tight combat, crafting, and fishing mechanics, Dredge reimagines RPG progression in a charmingly offbeat way.
The Vast World of Video Games Beckons in 2023
With jaw-dropping graphics, endless worlds to explore, and experiences catered to every interest, the best video games of 2023 showcase the true potential of the medium. Whether you want to lose yourself in living, breathing universes, test your skills in competitive multiplayer, or just unwind with experimental indies, there are more great games releasing this year than ever before. So power up your console or PC, get comfortable, and prepare to be transported into interactive adventures beyond your wildest imagination. The vast possibilities of video games await.
