There’s a lot to look forward to in the year ahead. 2024 promises another legendary year for gaming, with the return of big-name franchises, and the introduction of exciting new ones.
But before we leave 2023 in our dust, there are a few diamonds that got lost in the rough along the way, overshadowed by the publicity of AAA releases; and you can pick up a few of them right now below retail while you wait for the next big game to drop.
Here are 5 games from 2023 (in no particular order) that didn’t get the attention their immersive, innovative, and downright fun gameplay deserved.
Octopath Traveler II
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
First up is Octopath Traveler II. This is the follow-up to the beloved Nintendo Switch title that sold millions of copies and captured the hearts of JRPG fans in 2018. Once again, you’ll embark on an all-new adventure as one of eight travelers– each with their own skills, motivations, and origins. Each traveler also has a unique set of “Path Actions” that will ultimately determine where your character will go, what they’ll do, and how their journey will end.
Octopath Traveller II is worth checking out if you’re at all into quality RPGs. The story, characters, and turn-based action are not something you’d want to miss.
RoboCop: Rogue City
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
We have to admit, we were very surprised by how fun, satisfying, and true to the original films RoboCop: Rogue City turned out to be.
Part man, part machine– all cop. RoboCop: Rogue City allows players to step into the boots of the iconic law enforcement cyborg from the movies. Patrol the crime-ridden streets of Detroit in an original story that brings back familiar characters and settings from the RoboCop franchise.
With its action-packed gameplay and a focus on moral choices, players will have the chance to uphold justice using advanced weaponry and tactics while wrestling with complex ethical dilemmas. But don’t worry, your prime directive is quite simple: Serve the public trust, protect the innocent, and uphold the law… By any means necessary.
The Talos Principle II
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
The Talos Principle II is a long-awaited sequel that deepens the philosophical exploration and puzzle-solving experience of the first game. Set in a beautifully realized digital world, the game challenges players to contemplate profound questions about existence, morality, and artificial intelligence— all while solving intricate, non-linear puzzles that encourage creativity and exploration. With stunning visuals, an immersive soundtrack, and a thought-provoking narrative, The Talos Principle II is a must-play for both fans of the series and newcomers seeking a unique gaming adventure.
Need to catch up? Save on the first game for a limited time over in the CDKeys store.
Buy The Talos Principle II Now
Meet Your Maker
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
In Meet Your Maker, the latest release from the developer behind Dead by Daylight, you’ll create… to destroy.
In a post-apocalyptic setting, from a first-person perspective, you’ll use a variety of blocks, guards, and devious traps to build a deadly maze-like fortress. Why? To rip intruding players to shreds while you’re out and about invading their fortress.
Every level of Meet Your Maker is designed by players, for players; and you’ll need to outwit, cooperate, and connect to survive. Learn more about this exciting new singleplayer and online co-op experience via the link below:
System Shock
Platforms: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
What do Bioshock, Deus Ex, SOMA, and Prey have in common? They’re all spiritual succors to a little sci-fi shooter game called System Shock that originally released in 1994.
Now, nearly 30 years later, we see the return of this genre-defining title with a full-fledged remake. Updated controls, visuals, interface, and an all-new soundtrack enhance the sci-fi horror experience of a self-aware AI on a space station gone to hell.
Yes it’s a remake of a classic game, but nearly all of the “classic” elements of this 3-decade-old immersive shooter have been updated; while all the timeless elements like setting, story, and atmosphere remain.
Which 2023 release didn’t get the attention it deserves? Join the conversation over on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. And subscribe to our blog for more updates on the latest releases!
