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Our Favorite Games of 2023

As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back at our favorite games of 2023. These are the titles that stood out for their outstanding experience, pushing gaming to its limit or we just played it for four hours straight. Regardless of the reason, they are a representation of the video games that defined the year for us.

Be aware that this list is only of games we have reviewed. If a game you liked isn’t here even though it was great, it’s because we didn’t review it.

Here are the games we enjoyed playing in 2023:

10. Inescapable: No Rules, No Rescue

Inescapable: No Rules, No Rescue is an engaging thriller that is always keeping the player on edge. It’s a captivating visual novel that immediately grabs your attention with its engaging storyline and diverse cast of characters. The heart of the enjoyment lies within its core gameplay, and the inclusion of mini-games expands the player’s experience. 

9. Trepang2

Trepang2 is a satisfying fast-paced and over-the-top shooter that is also a reminder of an era defined by innovation. It’s an experience anyone can easily get into and will be mesmerized by the intense action. It’s also a is a reminder of an era when studios would take risks by experimenting with different gameplay mechanics or unique stories. 

8. Persona 4 Golden

Persona 4 Golden is akin to observing an artist’s work that serves as a bridge between their early work and their magnum opus. It was a stepping stone between the earlier games and what would become Persona 5. At the same time, it’s a time capsule that perfectly captures the culture and lifestyle of the 2000’s. 

7. Lies of P

Lies of P takes one of the most iconic works of Italian literature and uses it as the foundation for a Soulslike experience. The result is an unforgettable journey through a nightmarish world while having to overcome a verity of obstacles.

6. ANONYMOUS;CODE

ANONYMOUS;CODE tosses players into a thrilling story set in a post-disaster cyberpunk world that is on the verge of doom. The sixth entry in the Science Adventure series once again creates an experience inspired by real-world events and popular conspiracy theories. It’s a story fans will enjoy as it’s everything you could expect from the beloved series.

5. System Shock

System Shock is a remake that modernizes one of the most influential games while also preserving its defining aspects. It’s the same game that wowed players back in 1994 but with modern graphics and gameplay that is more polished. It perfectly captures and honors the legacy of one of the most important games.

4. The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie and Trails to Azure

2023 has been a good year for fans of The Legend of Heroes as they’ve gotten to experience multiple entries in such a short time frame. 

Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie serves as the culmination of an extensive narrative that has unfolded across six games and an anime series. After everything, this is the closure that fans have been waiting for. 

The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure continues from where Trails from Zero left off, while also polishing the gameplay. From its familiar gameplay to its retro style visuals, it has everything one could ask for in a JRPG. Players are once again tossed into an urban fantasy world plagued with corruption with the stakes higher than ever. 

3. Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless 

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless encapsulates all the quintessential elements that have long defined the series. At the same time, it has changed up some of the gameplay mechanics and introduced new features. From its new world to a gallery of colorful characters and numerous challenges, this is another worthy entry in the most evilest JRPG series. 

2. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the kind of experience that fans of the mecha genre have wanted for some time. From its grim world to the intense combat and the need to be prepared, it’s what one would expect from a true mecha game. Fans have waited a long time for a new Armored Core game and the wait was worth it. 

1. Resident Evil 4 and Separate Ways DLC

The original Resident Evil 4 has been hailed as a staple of the PlayStation 2 era while praised for reinventing the horror survival genre. The remake follows that tradition while also bringing it back to its horror roots and being a more mature experience. The Separate Ways DLC successfully recreates one of the best companion pieces while also bringing back some of the series’ defining elements. Overall, it builds upon the already successful foundation of its predecessors to reimagine one of the most iconic games.

What do you think of our list, was there a game that should have been the “Best Games of 2023”? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.