- Developer: Codemasters
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Number of Players: 1 locally or 2-22 online
- Developer: Dotemu
- Platforms: Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Switch, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-2 locally or online
While some may have hastily dismissed the apparent simplicity of the offering at first blush, those that can appreciate the title for what it is understand that the beauty of the game actually lies in the surprising amount of depth found in its combination frisbee/air hockey style gameplay; as well as how incredibly polished the experience is. Developer Dotemu captured the essence of what made the original game so compelling with the expert precision of a master craftsman; and they absolutely deserve to be recognized for the incredible feat they pulled off - - producing one of the purest and most authentic-feeling sequels to a '90s arcade gem imaginable. Especially given that it was made by a different company, nearly three decades later, and not even for the arcade!
Best Xbox (Console) Exclusive
- Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
- Platforms: Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
- Developer: Asobo Studio
- Platforms: GOG, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
- Developer: WayForward
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-4 locally or 2 online
Featuring everything that made the 2019 "original" so incredible, from the superbly designed co-op-optional beat 'em up action, to the brilliant radio-worthy music tracks by the ridiculously talented Megan McDuffee, to the amazing voice acting, and finally, the gorgeous comic book and retro-styled graphics. But River City Girls 2 also had plenty new to offer, such as additional brawlers to choose from ( including the original River City Ransom duo, Kunio and Riki), new areas to explore, new enemies to contend with, new moves and weapons to take them out with, and some kickin' new McDuffee tunes to enjoy while doing it. Between River City Girls 2 and TMNT: Shredder's Revenge (which you may just see further down this list), 2023 sure turned out to be a very good year for beat 'em up fans.
- Developer: Square (Enix)
- Platforms: Switch
- Number of Players: 1
As it had been quite a few console generations since the original 1994 Japanese launch on the Super Famicom, Square Enix opted to remake the title for its 2022 release, utilizing the same graphics engine and 2D HD style as their hit 2018 game, Octopath Traveler. Other minor additions were implemented as well, further improving upon the already solid formula of the original. As such, the Western release of Live a Live represented a superb update of a (till then) little-known and criminally underrated Square (Enix) gem that had never previously seen the light of day outside of Japan. While it's quite understandable why Live a Live would have been missed out on by so many prior to 2022, there's just no good reason any longer.
- Publisher: Annapurna Interactive
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
- Publisher: Sony
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
- Number of Players: 1
- Publisher: Nexon
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-2 locally or online
Another successful fighting game adaptation of an RPG series by ASW, after the outstanding aforementioned Persona 4: Arena, and much like that title (and other of their games), DNF Duel boasts a unique cast of interesting characters, stunning visuals, and deep-yet-accessible fighting mechanics. While the game not be perfect, it was still pretty far and away the best fighting game to be released in 2022. Making DNF Duel a true can't-miss title for fans of the DNF series, and fighting game fans alike.
Best PlayStation Exclusive
- Developer: Guerrilla
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
- Number of Players: 1
Best Switch Exclusive
The game feels, looks, and plays exactly like you'd hope a traditional 2D Kirby platformer would in 3D. In addition, Forgotten Land offers a great co-op mode, an amusingly creative new gameplay feature called mouthful mode, and the standard extra mini-games to boot. The game has been such a hit that it's currently the best-selling title in the Kirby franchise, as well as one of the best on the Switch. Some things in life are worth waiting for, and Kirby's first real 3D adventure was clearly one of them.
Best Multi-Platform Game, Game of the Year
- Developer: Tribute
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-4 locally or 2-6 online