Now that 2023 is almost over, it's time to take a look back at the best console games of the year. From blockbuster releases to indie gems, this list has something for everyone. Whether you like competitive multiplayer battles, exploration-based adventures, or intriguing story-driven experiences, these five games are sure to keep you entertained. With so much to choose from, let's dive right in and explore the top five best console games of the year.
1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game developed by Nintendo. The game takes place on a deserted island and allows players to design and customize their own village, complete with buildings, furniture, and other decorative items. Players can also catch bugs, fish, and fossils, as well as interact with other villagers and even do business with them.
With its charming characters, vibrant graphics, and unique gameplay, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has quickly become one of the most popular console games of the year and is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
Pros:
- Immersive, vibrant graphics;
- Variety of activities, from fishing to bug catching;
- Player freedom to design and customize their own village;
- Variety of characters to interact with;
- Creative, unique gameplay.
Cons:
- Can become repetitive after extended playtime;
- Limited online multiplayer options.
2. The Last of Us
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure game developed by Naughty Dog and released in June of this year. The game is the sequel to the critically acclaimed 2013 title and takes place in a world ravaged by a fungal infection. Players take on the role of Ellie, a young woman who is on a quest to avenge the death of her loved ones. The game features intense combat, puzzle-solving, and exploration, as well as an emotionally charged story.
Pros:
- Gripping, emotionally charged story;
- Intense combat and exploration;
- Stunning visuals;
- Unique enemy types with their own behaviors;
- Multiple endings depending on player choices.
Cons:
- Graphical glitches can occur;
- Combat can become repetitive after extended playtime.
3. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima is an action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions. Set in feudal Japan, the game puts players in the shoes of Jin Sakai, a samurai determined to protect his homeland against invading Mongols. With its fast-paced sword fighting, exploration, and stealth mechanics, the game puts a modern spin on classic samurai cinema.
Pros:
- Beautiful, vibrant visuals;
- Fast-paced sword fighting and stealth mechanics;
- Variety of weapons, armor, and items;
- Interesting and varied side quests;
- Gripping story with multiple endings.
Cons:
- Combat can become repetitive after extended playtime;
- Some missions can be too challenging for casual players.
4. Doom Eternal
The game is the direct sequel to the critically acclaimed 2016 title and continues the story of the Doom Slayer as he battles against an invasion from Hell. With its fast-paced action, intense combat, and a huge variety of weapons, Doom Eternal is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
The game also features an impressive story and a unique upgrade system, making it one of the best console games of 2023.
Pros:
- Fast-paced action and intense combat;
- Huge variety of weapons, items, and upgrades;
- Unique upgrade system;
- Impressive story;
- Support for local co-op and online multiplayer.
Cons:
- Graphical glitches can occur;
- It can become repetitive after extended playtime.
5. Hades
The game is set in the underworld of Greek mythology and puts players in the shoes of Zagreus, a demigod on a quest to escape his father's domain. With its intense combat and roguelike elements, Hades provides a unique and challenging experience.
Pros:
- Intense combat and roguelike elements;
- Unique weapons, items, and gods to choose from;
- Support for local co-op and online multiplayer;
- Stunning visuals and an impressive soundtrack;
- Interesting story with multiple endings.
Cons:
- Can become repetitive after extended playtime;
- Some weapons and items can be overpowered.