Low Five Gaming: Alex's Top 10 Games of 2023
Hey, there! Alex here from Low Five Gaming. It’s that time of the year again where I get the awesome opportunity to share my top gaming picks with the brilliant folks at Offshore Gamescast. Reflecting on 2023, it’s been a wild ride, both in gaming and life (hello, fatherhood!). So let’s dive into the games that defined my year.
10. NBA 2K24
NBA 2K24 starts my list at number ten. I know. I know… Yes, this dude did just say 2K. If only for hours played alone, it’s gotta make the list.
This year’s iteration continues to impress with its hyper-realistic gameplay and graphics, making every match feel like a courtside experience. My virtual success with the Timberwolves has paralleled their real-life achievements. Which as a Minnesota sports fan, I couldn’t be happier about!
The attention to detail in player movements and game mechanics is remarkable, ensuring that each game is as thrilling as the last. The balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for seasoned players makes NBA 2K24 a standout title in sports gaming.
9. Gris
Gris is a testament to the power of visual storytelling in gaming. Its breathtaking watercolor art style and emotionally resonant soundtrack make it more than just a game; it’s an experience. The narrative’s exploration of themes like grief and resilience is beautifully woven into the gameplay. Each color and element in Gris’ world is meticulously crafted, carrying deep symbolic meaning that resonates long after the game is over.
The game’s lack of conventional dialogue or text allows its stunning visuals and music to take center stage. Playing Gris feels like moving through a living painting, with each scene and sound evoking a range of emotions. It’s a game that proves how art and gaming can merge to create something truly extraordinary. Gris is not just a game to play; it’s a game to feel.
8. PlateUp!
PlateUp! is my go-to game for a quick, fun gaming session. As a rogue-like cooking simulator, it brilliantly blends strategy, time management, and culinary chaos. The game’s quirky art style and unpredictable gameplay elements made each session unique and entertaining. Running a restaurant in the game, dealing with the rush hours, and upgrading the kitchen were challenges that reminded me of my own time in the industry.
The game’s ability to capture the essence of kitchen life – the urgency, the creativity, and the satisfaction of serving up a perfect dish – is commendable. Whether I was playing solo or with friends, PlateUp! provided endless hours of laughter and culinary adventure.
Slap this indie gem on your wishlists!
7. Death's Door
Death’s Door brilliantly blends elements of classic adventure games with a modern twist. Its captivating world, filled with intriguing characters and lore, sets a unique stage for its story. The combat is challenging yet rewarding, demanding precision and strategy. What truly sets it apart is its darkly whimsical tone, combining humor with a poignant narrative about life and death.
The game’s design encourages exploration, with secrets and puzzles that add depth to the already engaging gameplay. Death’s Door doesn’t just entertain; it also leaves players pondering its themes long after the credits roll. The balance between tough bosses and moments of quiet introspection makes for a rich gaming experience.
6. Celeste
Celeste is more than a challenging platformer; it’s a deeply personal story about overcoming mental and emotional hurdles. Each level’s design not only tests your gaming skills but also mirrors the protagonist’s inner struggles. The game tactfully addresses themes of anxiety and self-doubt, making each victory feel significant and earned.
The pixel art style, combined with a touching soundtrack, enhances the game’s emotional impact. Celeste’s genius lies in its ability to intertwine its narrative and gameplay so seamlessly, making each jump and climb a metaphor for personal growth. It’s a game that challenges both your reflexes and your heart.
5. Starfield
Starfield offered an expansive and immersive RPG experience. Despite the mixed reviews, the game captivated me with its detailed world-building and the freedom to explore the vastness of space. The ability to craft your own story within its universe was a standout feature, making every playthrough unique.
The game’s depth in customization, from character development to spaceship design, allowed for a truly personalized experience. The sense of wonder in discovering new planets and engaging in space battles kept me hooked. Starfield is a game that reaches for the stars and, in many ways, succeeds.
4. Sea of Stars
Sea of Stars is a delightful homage to classic RPGs. Its charming pixel art, engaging turn-based combat, and well-crafted story made it a joy to play. The game beautifully blended nostalgia with modern game design, resulting in a comforting yet fresh experience. The character development and world-building were top-notch, creating a rich and immersive narrative.
The game’s soundtrack and visual aesthetics were standouts, enhancing the overall experience. The strategic combat, coupled with intriguing puzzles and exploration, kept the gameplay exciting and rewarding. Sea of Stars is a testament to the enduring appeal of the RPG genre and a shining example of how indie games can capture the spirit of classic titles.
Oh, and there’s Garrrlllllll!!!
3. Inscryption
Inscryption is a game that brilliantly fused card mechanics with psychological horror. Its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay made it one of the most memorable titles of the year. The game’s atmosphere was incredibly immersive, filled with eerie and unsettling elements that kept me on edge. The card battles were engaging, requiring strategic thinking and adaptability.
The narrative twists in Inscryption were some of the most surprising and ingenious I’ve encountered in gaming. The game constantly played with expectations, leading to a genuinely unique experience. Its blend of genres and the dark, mysterious storyline made Inscryption a game that was as thought-provoking as it was entertaining.
2. Dredge
Dredge combined fishing simulation with a dark, Lovecraftian narrative in a way that was both captivating and unsettling. The game’s art style, with its gloomy and atmospheric visuals, perfectly complemented its haunting story. Exploring the waters, uncovering secrets, and facing the unknown dangers lurking beneath the surface was thrilling.
The tension of balancing the routine of fishing with the game’s darker elements created a unique and immersive experience. Dredge’s narrative unfolded in a way that kept me engaged and curious, with each new discovery adding depth to its mysterious world. The game was a standout for its originality and its ability to blend different gameplay styles into a cohesive and compelling experience.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Topping my list at number one is The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This sequel to Breath of the Wild not only met but exceeded my high expectations. It expanded on everything I loved about the original, with a more gripping story, enhanced mechanics, and an even more expansive world. The sense of adventure and discovery was unparalleled, offering a gaming experience that was both familiar and thrillingly new.
The game’s visuals, puzzles, and combat systems were all refined, making every moment in Hyrule an absolute joy. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a testament to Nintendo’s ability to evolve and perfect its franchises, delivering a game that’s both a love letter to long-time fans and a welcoming gateway for newcomers.
2023 has been another fantastic year of gaming, and a huge shoutout to the team at Offshore Gamescast for letting me share these experiences. Here’s to another year of great games and new adventures!