As we approach the end of an extraordinary year for gaming, we reflect on standout titles ranging from Baldur’s Gate 3 to Alan Wake 2. It’s been a fantastic year, and we’re gearing up to celebrate these achievements at The Game Awards 2023 on December 7. Yet, before we turn our attention to the awards, there are still some releases deserving of attention. Our list highlights the six best new games of December 2023.
While these upcoming games might not quite match the year’s earlier high-profile releases, their arrival is still noteworthy. Notably, we’re excited about The Day Before, a game that’s been on our radar for years. Similar to the new games of November 2023, we’ve included the launch dates for these December games.
New Games of December 2023
This December, the spotlight shines brightly on Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. The anticipation for a high-calibre Avatar game has been building for quite some time, and the initial leaked reviews are promising. Players won’t be limited to traditional weaponry like bows and arrows. There’s even the option to wield a machine gun, adding a dynamic twist to the gameplay.
However, December 2023 will be most memorable for the return of familiar favourites. Phantom Liberty, which launched on September 25, now offers the complete main game in one comprehensive package. Additionally, Baldur’s Gate 3, arguably the best game of the year, is set to extend its reach to Xbox players, broadening its fanbase.
Here are the six best new games of December 2023:
- Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition — December 5
- Disney Dreamlight Valley — December 5
- Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora — December 7
- The Day Before (Early Access) — December 7
- House Flipper 2 — December 13
- Baldur’s Gate 3 (Xbox Series X|S) — TBA
1. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
The Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, combining the base game with the Phantom Liberty DLC, is set for release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. This bundle represents CD Projekt RED’s current ending in the series, marking a significant milestone.
The initial launch of Cyberpunk 2077 back in 2020 was fraught with challenges, notably due to bugs and performance issues that rendered the game nearly unplayable. However, the scenario has dramatically improved since then. With enhancements brought by the Phantom Liberty DLC, Cyberpunk 2077 has transformed into one of the best games available, a fact reflected in its high Metacritic scores.
For those considering the Ultimate Edition among the new games of December 2023, there’s an important distinction to note. PS5 users buying the physical pack will access the Phantom Liberty DLC via digital download. In contrast, Xbox Series X users will experience a unique first — the game will span across three discs.
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: December 5, 2023
2. Disney Dreamlight Valley
It might come as a surprise to see Disney Dreamlight Valley on this list, considering it’s been available on Steam in early access since 2022. However, it will finally transition to the full version as one of the new games of December 2023. This significant step is further celebrated with the release of its DLC, A Rift of Time.
Disney Dreamlight Valley has carved out a niche in the life simulation genre, filled with beloved Disney characters. It stands as a charming alternative to games like The Sims, boasting a campaign mode that spans over 65 hours, alongside the potential for endless playability. As the game prepares to exit early access, there’s a keen interest in how it will perform and evolve.
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
Release Date: December 5, 2023
3. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, arguably the last major triple-A title of the year, is poised for release. Set in the expansive Avatar universe, the game offers a fully open-world experience. Players will have the freedom to explore the map at their leisure after the initial few hours, choosing between focusing on the main campaign or roaming the world.
From the first gameplay videos, one aspect is strikingly evident: The game bears a strong resemblance to the latest Far Cry titles. While the parkour mechanics might seem to set it apart, in essence, playing Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora may feel akin to experiencing an Avatar-themed version of Far Cry 6. Is this similarity a downside? Not necessarily, but it might be wise to temper expectations.
As one of the new games of December 2023, it’s important to note that Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora will not be available on older console generations. Additionally, the game won’t initially be released on Steam or the Epic Games Store. Instead, it will be exclusively sold on the Ubisoft Store at launch.
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: December 7, 2023
4. The Day Before (Early Access)
In our discussion of the November 2023 game releases, we speculated that The Day Before might face delays. Shortly after that article, the game’s postponement was indeed confirmed. However, the delay isn’t extensive, as the game is now set for a December release.
The Day Before has endured a challenging development process over the years and will now launch as an early-access title on Steam. While the timeline for its full release remains uncertain, a 2025 launch seems likely at the earliest. Details about its structure as a live-service game are expected to be unveiled soon.
Should The Day Before overcome the hurdles and negative expectations surrounding it, it has the potential to be one of the best new games of December 2023. However, we must temper our optimism, as the likelihood of this happening appears relatively slim.
Platforms: PC
Release Date: December 7, 2023
5. House Flipper 2
One of the new games of December 2023 is House Flipper 2. While it might initially seem like just another entry in the crowded field of simulation games on Steam, it’s worth noting that its predecessor was a pioneer in sparking the simulation game craze. So, expect a game that’s engaging enough to keep you hooked for hours.
The sequel brings a significant upgrade from the original: The ability to build a house from the ground up. This means that gameplay isn’t limited to just renovating existing properties for profit. We anticipate many players will still find themselves absorbed in the meticulous task of cleaning and organising messy homes, satisfying their inner perfectionists.
For those who find a sense of calm in orderly spaces, House Flipper 2 is a must-try among the new games of December 2023. Interested players can already add the game to their Steam wishlist, preparing for its launch and the satisfying task of virtual house flipping.
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: December 14, 2023
6. Baldur’s Gate 3
The best way to close out 2023 would have to be with the best game of the year. Baldur’s Gate 3 is finally getting ready to be released for Xbox Series X|S after PC and PS5. This is exciting news for millions of Xbox players who will soon embark on this epic journey.
However, a specific release date for the Xbox version remains unconfirmed. We know for sure that Baldur’s Gate 3 will be one of the new games of December 2023, but the exact day is set to be announced at The Game Awards 2023. We estimate that it won’t be too far off from the end of the year and might even coincide with the event itself.
For those who haven’t experienced Baldur’s Gate 3 on any platform yet, including GeForce Now, the Xbox launch is an opportunity not to be missed. The game isn’t just a highlight of 2023 but is acclaimed as one of the greatest games of all time.
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S (Already released on PC and PS5)
Release Date: TBA
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