The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the gaming industry, with a plethora of amazing titles released across various genres and platforms. From highly-anticipated sequels to innovative new IPs, from RPGs to sushi-sims, there was something for everyone to enjoy. But which game deserves to be crowned as the best game of 2023? IGN India has revealed its nominees for this coveted award, and the competition is fierce. Here are the 16 games that made the cut, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Cyberpunk 2077 was one of the most hyped games of the decade, but its launch in 2020 was marred by technical issues, bugs, and broken promises. However, CD Projekt Red did not give up on its ambitious sci-fi RPG, and after three years of hard work, it released Phantom Liberty, a massive expansion that overhauls the game’s mechanics, skill tree, and story. Phantom Liberty is a testament to the developer’s dedication and passion, and it delivers a deeply immersive and cinematic RPG experience that lets players customize their very souls and make meaningful choices in the dystopian Night City. It is also the first of two game nominees this year adapted from a classic tabletop RPG.
Baldur’s Gate 3 – A Tabletop Masterpiece
Baldur’s Gate 3 is another game that is based on a beloved tabletop RPG, namely Dungeons & Dragons. Developed by Larian Studios, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a faithful adaptation of the pen-and-paper game, with a rich and complex ruleset, a dynamic and reactive world, and a vast amount of freedom and creativity for the players. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a game that rewards exploration, experimentation, and role-playing, and it offers a thrilling and epic adventure that can be enjoyed solo or with friends. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a game that proves that sometimes, the old ways are the best.
Alan Wake 2 – A Mind-Blowing Journey
Alan Wake 2 is the long-awaited sequel to the cult classic psychological thriller by Remedy Entertainment. The game follows the eponymous writer, who is trapped in an alternate dimension called the Dark Place, where fiction becomes reality. For 13 years, he has tried to write himself out of this nightmare, but to no avail. Meanwhile, in the real world, FBI agent Saga Anderson is investigating a series of ritualistic murders in Bright Falls, the town where the first game took place. The two protagonists’ stories are intertwined, and they will have to face the horrors of the Dark Place and the secrets of Bright Falls. Alan Wake 2 is a game that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, and it pushes the medium of games forward with its innovative storytelling and gameplay.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – A Breath of Fresh Air
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Breath of the Wild, and it takes the open-world formula to the next level. The game features a new story that revolves around the mysterious Tears of the Kingdom, a powerful substance that can alter the environment and the creatures in it. Link and Zelda will have to explore the vast and diverse Hyrule, and discover the secrets of the Tears, while facing new enemies, puzzles, and challenges. The game also introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as gliding, crafting, and riding different animals. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a game that redefines the genre of open-world adventure, and it offers a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – A Web-Slinging Spectacle
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is the sequel to the smash hit superhero game by Insomniac Games, and it continues the story of Peter Parker and Miles Morales as they protect New York City from new threats. The game features a larger and more detailed map of the city, with more activities, landmarks, and secrets to discover. The game also improves the combat and traversal systems, with new moves, gadgets, and suits for the web-slingers. The game also boasts an impressive roster of villains, including Venom, Kraven the Hunter, and the Sinister Six. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is a game that captures the essence of being Spider-Man, and it delivers a thrilling and cinematic adventure that fans of the comics and movies will love.
Other Nominees
The other nominees for the best game of 2023 are:
- Resident Evil 4 – A Terrifying Remake
- Street Fighter 6 – A Fighting Revolution
- Horizon Forbidden West – A Stunning Sequel
- God of War: Ragnarok – A Mythical Finale
- Halo Infinite – A Glorious Return
- Deathloop – A Stylish Shooter
- GhostWire: Tokyo – A Paranormal Action
- Sable – A Beautiful Journey
- Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido – A Delicious Puzzle
- Psychonauts 2 – A Trippy Platformer
Who Will Win?
The winner of the best game of 2023 will be announced on Friday, December 15th, by IGN India. The decision will be based on the votes of the IGN staff, as well as the feedback of the readers and viewers. You can cast your vote on the IGN website, or on the IGN India social media channels. Which game do you think deserves to win the prestigious award? Let us know in the comments below.