Best games of 2023 so far

How is it that we’re already more than halfway through 2023? Time really does fly when you’re having fun – especially when you’re distracted with some great video game entertainment.

For gamers, 2023 really did bring the goods. Whether it was a long-awaited sequel, a remake or the latest gaming release from our favourite studios, there was much to get excited– and after hours of game play and even some hand cramps, the reviews are in – and they are raving.

Here are our top choices for the best games of 2023 so far.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Rating M 

It’s finally here and it was worth the wait. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was arguably the most anticipated game for the past couple years. After the mesmerising storylines, graphics, and gameplay of its predecessor – it would’ve been hard to meet fan expectations. However, after playing through the expansive open world of floating islands and benthic caverns, it’s almost a unanimous decision amongst fans and critics that Tears of the Kingdom has surpassed expectations on a grand level.

Nintendo created a universe that feels endless and allows the player to be imaginative. If you see a mountain in the background, there’s a huge chance you will be able to climb it. Tears of the Kingdom allows players to choose their own adventure and complete quests at their own pace and playfulness – only this time with updated karts, flying machines, horses and hot air balloons.

Calling it now – The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will soon be known as a classic game.

Console: Nintendo Switch

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Rating M

The Star Wars universe has undeniably been going through a rough patch in history, especially with its last couple movies not being so well received.  If dedicated fans were wanting t to feel the Star Wars adrenaline and charm once more - may we suggest the games?

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor follows the journey of the last Jedi Knight, Cal Kestis and his crew of space rebels as they continue to fight against the tyranny of the Galactic Empire.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor has already garnered rave reviews from not just die-hard fans but also from everyday gamers, who are simply looking for a great gameplay. Although this game is a sequel and picks up the storyline five years after the events in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, players will not need to be familiar with the first instalment to enjoy this action-adventure game.

Console: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series S & X

Resident Evil IV (Remake)

Rating R18+ 

The original Resident Evil 4 was already a good game – and no one was asking for a remake. If anything, it would have made more sense to continue the storyline. Sure the 90’s game was built with some primitive controls, backtracking and a fairly straight forward storyline – but it was the 90’s, so we seemingly excused the flaws and moved onto new games and modernised graphics.

In saying that, after playing through the reimagined 2023 version – Resident Evil IV was the remake we didn’t know we needed. Capcom for whatever reason levelled up the experience of the original game with modernized gameplay, an updated storyline and vividly improved graphics and controls – so much so it almost felt like playing a whole new game.

Unsurprisingly, Resident Evil IV is set six years after the biological disaster in Raccoon City and follows Leon S. Kennedy who is sent on a rescue mission to save the president’s kidnapped daughter from a village where the citizens have turned violent.

Console: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series S & X

Street Fighter 6

Rating M

For those looking for a sense of nostalgia or were simply wanting to play a mindless game, give Street Fighter 6 a try. The concept is simple enough - there are two characters on screen, and they must fight till one player loses their entire health bar. This is a game for players who like to co-ordinate their special moves as well as for those who can only button bash.

In Street Fighter 6, the legendary masters and new fan favourites have returned with three distinct game modes including World Tour, Fighting Ground and Battle Hub and a highly developed combat system.

While there are no significant changes in gameplay, Street Fighter 6 is a classic case of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, instead upgrading the characters, playing fields and visuals.

Console: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series S & X and Steam.

Final Fantasy XVI

Rating MA15+

A century from now, the gaming community will still probably be talking about the Final Fantasy series. Sixteen games in and the gameplay, storyline, and character development somehow still managers to not only build on the previous versions but also keep our vivid attention.

This iconic action role-playing game is set in the fictional world of Valishthea and seen through the eyes of protagonist Clive Rosfield, a warrior granted the title of “First Shield of Rosaria” who is sworn to protect his younger brother Joshua against the Dark Eikon Ifrit – an unknown entity that devastatingly ruined his family’s legacy. 

It sounds rather complicated and perhaps too expansive – but rest assured, the story sounds more complex than it is. To simply put it, Final Fantasy rocks. From the very get go, the action and Game of Thrones-esque adventure will hook players in, especially with Clive’s updated movement capabilities and of course his cool giant sword.  Final Fantasy XV gives the fantasy fanfare that is known for, only this time with more mother crystal, impeccable kaiju fights, magic – that makes every new mission more exciting than the last.

Considering playing these legendary games on a handheld console? Find out where best to play them with our handheld gaming console guide. Or if you’re more of a PC gamer,  consider upgrading your setup with our accessory recommendations.

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