Our team went through rigorous voting to decide on the best games of 2023 in a number of categories and now it’s time to reveal the winners!
The amount of fantastic games in 2023 was almost overwhelming. There seemed to be no shortage of awesomeness in just about every genre for gamers of all ages to enjoy.
With that in mind, we decided to change up how we did our “Game of the Year” coverage this year, and instead have decided to do it “Awards” style with multiple categories where we can highlight titles. While we don’t have a fancy stage or anything, rest assured, if we did we’d let the winners have more than 30 seconds to talk about…
Anyway, before we get to the awards themselves, we want to acknowledge the many developers who worked hard on these games and found themselves on the shitty end of layoffs thanks to callous executives who have lost touch with what makes gaming great. 2023 has shown the power of gaming as a storytelling medium on top of a killer way to escape our worries; and the developers who made it happen definitely deserved better.
Now, let’s get to the awards!
13. Best Game Direction
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Developed By: Nintendo
Directed By: Shiro Mouri
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Release Date: October 20, 2023
The latest addition to the Mario franchise, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, showcases the outstanding creativity and innovation of the renowned game developer, Nintendo. With its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and captivating storyline, the game has set a new standard for the franchise, offering players an unforgettable gaming experience that will keep them hooked for hours on end. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of Mario, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
12. Best Indie Game
Sea of Stars
Developed By: Sabotage Studio
Directed By: Thierry Boulanger
Platforms: Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4|5, Xbox Consoles
Release Date: August 29, 2023
Beginning life as a Kickstarter project (meant to serve as a follow-up to The Messenger), Sea of Stars absolutely swept gamers off their feet. This indie darling managed to recreate the feel of those retro RPGs from days of gaming’s yore while refining the mechanics and giving players a compelling new story to enjoy.
11. Best Musical Score
Final Fantasy XVI – Composer Masayoshi Soken
Developed By: Square Enix
Directed By: Hiroshi Takai, Kazutoyo Maehiro
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows
Release Date: June 22, 2023
No Final Fantasy game is complete without a great soundtrack to go with it (at least no good Final Fantasy game), and FF XVI is no different. Masayoshi Soken’s impressive score not only spotlighted the emotional beats throughout the story, but made each enemy encounter feel suitably epic, no matter how big or small. Even the quieter moments back at base were filled with a serene melody that gave players the respite needed from the action.
10. Best Art Direction
Hi-Fi Rush – Lead Art Director Keita Sakai
Developed By: Tango Gameworks, Bethesda Softworks
Directed By: John Johanas
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: January 25, 2023
Tango Gameworks demonstrated a clear understanding of their objectives when they developed Hi-Fi Rush. The game’s design was intended to encapsulate the dynamic action and culture of anime and gaming. With careful attention to detail, the developers incorporated numerous Easter eggs, anime references, and elements that resonate with the gaming community. Hi-Fi Rush is an exceptional game that delivers hours of entertainment. We extend our gratitude to Tango Gameworks for their ingenuity and for creating a masterpiece that ranks among the best games available on Xbox GamePass.
9. Best Action/Adventure Game
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Developed By: Respawn Entertainment
Directed By: Stig Asmussen
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: April 28, 2023
Where Fallen Order helped establish new characters and set the path for this type of action game in the galaxy far, far away, Survivor blew the doors off and came out swinging confidently. From the refined mechanics, impressive visuals, and expanded story everything about Survivor is a gigantic leap forward. The new, streamlined, features made exploration a ton of fun, encouraging players to return for more even after they’d left an area. Most of all, it left us eager for more, in the best way possible.
8. Best RPG
Starfield
Developed By: Bethesda Game Studios
Directed By: Todd Howard
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: September 6, 2023
Starfield is an incredibly vast and immersive game that offers players a truly unforgettable experience. With a universe that is as expansive as it is beautiful, players will find themselves exploring new worlds, encountering strange civilizations, and uncovering secrets that will keep them engaged for hours on end. The story is equally impressive, with a compelling narrative that draws players in and keeps them on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of gaming, Starfield is a must-play title that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
7. Best Strategy Game
Dune: Spice Wars
Developed By: Shiro Games
Directed By: Sebastián Vidal
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: September 14, 2023 (Full Release)
Even in its Early Access state, it was clear there was something special about Dune: Spice Wars. The full release manages to fulfill all of the potential we saw in the previous year and deliver a compelling strategy game within this iconic universe. Considering Dune II essentially created the modern RTS genre as we know it, there was obviously a lot of legacy to live up to. Not only does it exceed those expectations, but the deft inclusions of the 4X Grand Strategy elements helps set a new standard for the genre as well.
6. Best Horror Game
Dead Space (2023)
Developed By: Motive Studio
Directed By: Roman Campos-Oriola, Eric Baptizat
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: January 27, 2023
Motive Studios was faced with an intimidating task when taking on the Dead Space remake project – to recreate the same level of fear and terror that the original game had instilled in its players. Nevertheless, through meticulous planning and careful execution, it is evident that Motive and EA were able to take on this challenge head to head. The result is a game that is not only true to the original in terms of its gameplay and storyline but also manages to surpass it in terms of its graphics, sound design, and overall immersive experience. The Dead Space remake is a testament to the dedication and talent of the team at Motive Studios, who have managed to breathe new life into a classic horror game while retaining its core essence.
5. Best Sports/Racing Game
Forza Motorsport
Developed By: Turn 10 Studios
Directed By: Chris Esaki
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Windows
Release Date: October 10, 2023
Turn 10 has crafted an extraordinary game with Forza Motorsport. As someone who used to play a lot of racing games in my younger years, I found myself losing interest in them over time due to their lack of excitement. However, Forza Motorsport is different. It’s not just another racing simulator or arcade game; it’s a revolutionary racing title that immerses you in the experience of real-life racing. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the meticulously crafted tracks to the lifelike opposing racers, and the stunning locations that make you feel like you’re really there. With Forza Motorsport, you’re not just playing a game; you’re living the racing experience.
4. Best Multiplayer Game
Diablo IV
Developed By: Blizzard Team 3, Blizzard Albany
Directed By: Joe Shely, Sebastian Stepien, Luis Barriga
Platforms: PlayStation 4|5, Xbox Series Consoles, Windows
Release Date: June 5, 2023
By all accounts, there’s no reason Diablo IV should be as addictive as it is…and yet, it’s nearly impossible to stop playing. Blizzard proved they still had the goods when it comes to this franchise, proving the long wait was definitely worth while. While being set in an always online “world” had some drawbacks, it also made playing with friends, or crawling through dungeons with total strangers, a blast.
3. Best Family Game
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Developed By: Nintendo
Directed By: Shiro Mouri
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Release Date: October 20, 2023
Can you believe it? One game has won not one, but two awards! And it’s no surprise, really, given the sheer brilliance of Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The game is an absolute masterpiece in terms of creativity and innovation, which undoubtedly earned it the Best Game Direction Award. But that’s not all – it’s also an incredibly fun and engaging game to play with family or friends. Whether you’re a full time gamer or a complete novice, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is sure to bring out the child in you with its magical, family friendly world.
2. Best Fighting Game
Street Fighter 6
Developed By: Capcom
Directed By: Takayuki Nakayama
Platforms: PlayStation 4|5, Xbox Series Consoles, Windows
Release Date: June 2, 2023
As highlighted in our review, Street Fighter 6 is a game that has undergone a complete transformation from its predecessors. The developers have left no stone unturned in bringing a fresh and engaging experience to the players. Every aspect of the game, from its various modes that offer diverse gameplay experiences, to its improved gameplay mechanics, and stunning graphical upgrades, presents an unparalleled gaming experience. The musical score, environmental design, cutscenes, and other in-game features have been crafted with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a game that is nothing short of astounding. Capcom’s exceptional achievement in elevating an already successful game franchise to new heights is truly commendable.
1. Game of the Year
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Developed By: Insomniac Games
Directed By: Bryan Inthihar, Ryan Smith
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Release Date: October 20, 2023
Insomniac Games has truly raised the bar in the gaming industry with their exceptional titles over the past few years. Their latest releases, including Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart and the Spider-Man series, have set a new standard for immersive gameplay and captivating storytelling. It’s no surprise that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has been awarded the prestigious title of Game of the Year, as it stands out for its incredible gameplay mechanics that make players feel like they are truly Spider-Man, as well as its gripping storyline that keeps players engaged from start to finish.
