2023 has been an extraordinary year for gaming fans, shaping up to be one of the finest in recent memory. Not only did this year usher in a wave of groundbreaking new titles, but it also saw the revival of cherished classics through remakes and remasters. This article zeroes in on the seven best PC games of 2023, a collection that showcases the peak of this year’s gaming achievements.
It’s been a veritable feast for gamers, with offerings ranging from the epic storytelling of Baldur’s Gate 3 to the thrilling suspense of Alan Wake 2. While compiling a list of the best is always subjective, we at Player.me have carefully curated what we believe are the standout titles of the year.
7. Dead Space (Remake)
Remakes are often overlooked in the selection of the year’s best games. While the reasoning behind this is understandable, we can’t help but praise Dead Space for its exceptional remake. The original version, launched in 2008, set a high bar, yet this remake has impressively surpassed it.
In the Dead Space (Remake), you’ll discover everything you anticipate from an action horror game and then some. The spooky ambience is heightened by stunningly realistic graphics and lighting, making it more chilling than ever. For fans of the genre, it’s essential to experience this game before the year ends.
It is one the best PC games of 2023 and horror games to play on Halloween 2023, so be sure to check it out.
Release Date: January 27, 2023
Metacritic Score: 87
6. Sea of Stars
In years to come, when reflecting on 2023, Baldur’s Gate 3 will likely be the first RPG that springs to mind. However, this doesn’t detract from the fact that Sea of Stars is an excellent game in its own right. Crafted as a heartfelt homage to classic role-playing games, it stands as a genuine gem for fans of the genre.
Although it may not have clinched a spot in the “Game of the Year” category at The Game Awards 2023, it’s a strong contender for the best indie game of the year. In the meantime, you can purchase it on Steam and immerse yourself in this remarkable creation.
Don’t worry that it’s ranked sixth on the list of the best PC games of 2023 — it’s our secret favourite.
Release Date: August 29, 2023
Metacritic Score: 88
5. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
It’s usually quite unusual for a DLC to rank among the best PC games of 2023. However, Phantom Liberty is no ordinary expansion pack. It represents the ultimate evolution of Cyberpunk 2077, and, as expected, it’s spectacular. The past few years have been challenging for CD Projekt RED, but their achievements are worthy of commendation.
They’ve retained all the impressive elements of the original game while addressing nearly all its flaws. Playing Phantom Liberty, you’ll genuinely feel as though you’re engaging with a next-generation game. The vivid portrayal of the future, along with its characters and storyline, will captivate you from the outset.
Make sure to experience Phantom Liberty as one of the best PC games of 2023, particularly if you own a high-end RTX graphics card.
Release Date: September 25, 2023
Metacritic Score: 89
4. Hi-Fi Rush
There’s not a great deal to elaborate on Hi-Fi Rush unless, of course, you’re seeking effusive praise. It stands out not only as one of the best PC games of 2023 but also as one of the most distinctive. Its rhythm-based combat mechanics are the most refined we’ve seen to date.
Developed by Tango Gameworks and published by Bethesda, Hi-Fi Rush is an Xbox exclusive, available only on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Consequently, players on other platforms, particularly those with a PS5, won’t have the opportunity to experience this gem.
The decision you face is straightforward. If you have an affinity for both excellent music and action games, it’s hard to turn away from a title that offers the best of both worlds.
Release Date: January 25, 2023
Metacritic Score: 89
3. Resident Evil 4 (Remake)
Capcom’s prowess in this area is already well-known, thanks to the remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3. However, the remarkable success of the fourth instalment, initially launched in 2005 and an immediate classic, took many by surprise. Resident Evil 4 is brilliantly crafted to captivate both longstanding fans and newcomers alike.
The updated version of Leon and Ada’s initial adventure is undoubtedly deserving of its place among the best PC games of 2023. While there’s room for debate about remakes and remasters, with some suggesting developers are playing it safe, titles like Dead Space and the RE 4 remake should be exempt from such criticisms.
Even if you’ve never delved into the Resident Evil series, this remake is well worth your time. It will give you a glimpse of the challenges we faced in compiling our list of the best PC games of 2023.
Release Date: March 23, 2023
Metacritic Score: 91
2. Alan Wake 2
Were it not for Baldur’s Gate 3, Alan Wake 2 would likely be at the peak of the best PC games of 2023. The achievements of Remedy Entertainment, under the guidance of Sam Lake, are far from ordinary. The way they have continued the narrative from the original 2010 game is respectable.
The reason Alan Wake 2 secures the second spot isn’t just because it’s a good game. It transcends into a remarkable work of art, incorporating a variety of mediums. It’s best played without any spoilers, but do think of us when you reach the “We Sing” section.
As one of the most extraordinary games we’ve encountered in recent times, it unquestionably earns its position on our list of the best PC games of 2023.
Release Date: October 27, 2023
Metacritic Score: 89
1. Baldur’s Gate 3
Unsurprisingly, our pick for the best PC game of the year is Baldur’s Gate 3. This honour isn’t limited to just 2023 — its impact is far-reaching. In years to come, when asked about the finest RPG, the answer for countless players will likely be BG3.
The feat accomplished by Larian Studios is not just challenging — it borders on the miraculous. Their work was so remarkable that they earned a standing ovation from their peers at the Golden Joystick Awards 2023. Every aspect of Baldur’s Gate 3 — from the meticulous details to the characters, dialogues, and scenes — manifests the zenith of gaming.
Don’t miss out on experiencing Baldur’s Gate 3, whether you’re playing alone or with friends. As one of the best PC games of 2023, it truly deserves all the accolades it has received.
Release Date: August 3, 2023
Metacritic Score: 96
Final Thoughts
There are also outstanding games that didn’t quite make it onto our list of the best PC games of 2023. For instance, fans of the fighting genre had a banner year with Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1. We also shouldn’t overlook indie titles like Dave the Diver, Slay the Princess, Videoverse, Pizza Tower, and Cocoon, which provided enjoyment throughout the year.
Conversely, there were a couple of major letdowns that one might have expected to feature on the list. Starfield and Diablo 4 aren’t bad games by any means, but they didn’t quite meet the high expectations set for them.
These selections represent the best PC games of 2023 for us. As we gradually approach the end of the year, we’ll continue to share other lists in the days to come.
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- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.
