1.Princess Peach™: Showtime!
Princess Peach steps into the limelight in her long-awaited starring role in Princess Peach: Showtime! for Nintendo Switch. This captivating adventure, released by Nintendo in March, transports the princess into a whimsical theater teeming with adversaries, where she must take center stage in a series of theatrical performances to thwart the impending danger.
Princess Peach: Showtime! offers a delightful blend of simplicity and intrigue, as players guide the princess through various acts adorned in an array of enchanting costumes, each imbued with unique abilities. Whether she's donning the attire of a stealthy ninja, a shrewd detective, a skilled pastry chef, or a spirited cowgirl, Princess Peach's versatility adds a refreshing twist to the classic adventure genre.
With its charming premise and engaging gameplay, Princess Peach: Showtime! captures the essence of childhood whimsy while providing a thoroughly enjoyable experience for players of all ages. Prepare to be enchanted by this delightful escapade that celebrates the timeless allure of Nintendo's iconic princess. —Nicole Carpenter
2. DRAGON’S DOGMA 2
Dragon’s Dogma 2 marks the highly anticipated sequel to its predecessor, arriving a remarkable 12 years later with a host of new features and expanded gameplay elements. Blending elements of action-RPG and party-based MMO, this sequel introduces a captivating gaming experience that defies convention.
In Dragon’s Dogma 2, players have the freedom to seamlessly switch between vocations (classes) at their leisure, allowing for unprecedented flexibility in character customization. Additionally, players can enlist the aid of pawns — customizable NPCs who accompany them in battle, providing invaluable support and camaraderie throughout their journey. With the ability to effortlessly swap out pawns as needed, players can tailor their party to suit any challenge that awaits.
3.Stardew Valley 1.6
I had lost interest in Stardew Valley for some time until the recent 1.6 update reignited my passion for the game. Like many others, I was curious about the impact an update could have on Stardew Valley; while I knew the update was expected to be significant, I was pleasantly surprised by the extent of the changes. Although Stardew Valley remains true to its essence, developer Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone truly exceeded expectations. The update addresses various aspects of the game, introducing improvements in quality of life such as the option to consume mayonnaise and bringing in new content like the Meadowlands Farm, where players receive chickens right from the start. I specifically highlighted these two features as they demonstrate the update's thoroughness: they combine to form a crucial early game strategy for progressing efficiently. These incremental updates contribute to making Stardew Valley an even more enjoyable gaming experience.
4.Balatro – A Roguelite Poker Adventure
Just when you think you've seen all possible combinations in the roguelite genre, a game like Balatro emerges to deliver a pleasant surprise. Quick rounds of poker combined with deep deck-building mechanics and layers of complexity beneath its seemingly simple facade, Balatro bets everything on its concept and is hard to put down once it sinks its hooks into your free time.
5.Persona 3: Reload - 9
Regarded as one of the standout Persona titles in gaming history, Persona 3: Reload undergoes a complete transformation for contemporary audiences. Representing the ultimate rendition of this beloved classic and its deeply immersive narrative, Persona 3: Reload receives a full-scale revamp, rendering its combat system more accessible, enhancing its visuals to offer a visually stunning experience, and complementing it all with a memorable soundtrack.
6.Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown - 9
Following a period dominated by 3D adventures, the resurgence of Prince of Persia in its 2D origins brings a refreshing breeze to the franchise. Seamlessly integrating metroidvania elements into its structure, The Lost Crown delivers impeccable combat mechanics and a meticulously designed world. These components blend harmoniously to form a unified experience. More than just a captivating metroidvania title, The Lost Crown stands as a meticulously crafted entry in the genre, poised to inspire future games for years to come.
7.Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth - 8
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth emerges as a monumental sequel, reintroducing Cloud and his companions in a grander and more audacious narrative as they persistently challenge fate. Despite a few missteps, the game's stunning visuals, polished combat system, and daring departures from established series lore remain its standout features.
8.Indika - 8
We've had some terrific games big-budget this year, but Indika is that surprise indie hit that provides a welcome contrast to the blockbuster approach by AAA studios. A fascinating exploration of religion and philosophy, Indika pulls no punches with its examination of Christianity. Rich characters, a unique visual style, and top-notch voice-acting help make Indika one of this year's best thought-provoking titles.
9.Pepper Grinder - 8
Pepper Grinder is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face with its innovative gameplay mechanics, fluid sense of movement, and charming art style bursting with personality. Despite its brevity, it strikes the perfect balance, offering a delightful experience that never overstays its welcome as you navigate its dynamic action and immerse yourself in its endearing pixel art.
10.Tekken 8 - 8
Amidst the buzz of new Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat releases in 2023, the comeback of Tekken was eagerly anticipated. Though fashionably late to the brawl, Tekken 8 arrived this year packing a punch as one of the franchise's finest installments yet. Featuring a robust roster from day one and showcasing stunning graphics that render every muscle in exquisite detail, Tekken 8 propels the series forward with its exhilarating and intense gameplay.
11.The Last of Us Pt. II
The Last of Us Pt. II Remastered offers a chance to revisit the gripping narrative of The Last of Us Pt. II, starting the year off with a bang for fans. This official remaster includes the original game's DLC along with an added "roguelike survival mode" called "No Return," introducing random encounters to heighten the tension. Additionally, for those who already own the original Pt. II, upgrading to the PlayStation 5 edition is a steal at just $10.
12.Mario vs. Donkey Kong
Mario vs. Donkey Kong, the fifth installment in the puzzle-platforming series, channels the spirit of the original Donkey Kong arcade game. This graphically enhanced version introduces local multiplayer, boasts over 130 levels, and features the utilization of Mario Minis to aid players in their journey. And what exactly are Mario Minis, you inquire? They're Mini Marios! Keep up, folks.
13.Unicorn Overlord
Developer Vanillaware brings its signature touch to the strategy RPG genre with Unicorn Overlord, a game that excels in mechanical perfection. The standout feature of Unicorn Overlord lies in its deep systems and challenging large-scale battles. Surprisingly, the game boasts a plethora of interconnected systems that seamlessly work together, offering players a complex yet rewarding experience.
Unicorn Overlord innovatively blends turn-based and real-time strategy elements, resulting in a captivating gameplay experience. From organizing characters into units to devising Final Fantasy XII gambit-style tactics, strategic planning is key. Once battles commence, players are thrust into a frantic rush to direct units and outmaneuver opponents. Each battle surpasses the last, introducing new twists and variations that continually test players' strategic prowess. It's akin to navigating an extra-complicated game of chess.
14.Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
The dynamic duo of gaming's most iconic gangsters, Kazuma Kiryu and Ichiban Kasuga, return in style for an uproarious island escapade in Infinite Wealth. This time, our heroes find themselves embroiled in a wild Hawaiian adventure, uncovering the secrets of a cult backed by corrupt politicians and the remnants of the criminal underworld. But fear not, for amidst the chaos, Infinite Wealth retains the quirky charm and eccentric side quests that define Ryu Ga Gotoku's series.
Prepare for hours of immersive gameplay in this robust turn-based RPG, where you'll find yourself torn between unraveling the mysteries of the island and indulging in delightful distractions like building your own Animal Crossing-style resort or capturing candid shots of speedo-clad gentlemen. With a versatile job system and an endless array of eccentric adversaries, each battle becomes a strategic and comedic spectacle, ensuring that Infinite Wealth delivers thrills and laughs in equal measure.
15.Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 is an absolute gem of a game, offering a thrilling blend of tough-as-nails gameplay and satirical humor that sets it apart from the crowd. Developed by PlayStation and Arrowhead Games, this third-person, co-op sci-fi shooter delivers an experience like no other. Despite the inevitable demise that awaits you and your squadmates, whether by friendly fire or unforeseen mishaps, Helldivers 2 manages to strike a delicate balance that keeps you coming back for more.
What sets Helldivers 2 apart is its ability to provide just enough tools and options to navigate the treacherous landscapes of alien worlds and complete your missions. Every victory feels hard-earned, every defeat a lesson learned. The game's satirical elements add depth to the experience, ensuring that each mission is not only exhilarating but also memorable. Unlike many other co-op shooters, Helldivers 2 maintains a focused and streamlined approach, free from unnecessary bloat.
In the end, Helldivers 2 stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and democracy, offering a uniquely rewarding gameplay experience that will keep you engaged for hours on end. And with the servers finally up and running smoothly, there's never been a better time to dive into the chaos of Helldivers 2.