I bought and played many Xbox video games in 2023. Below are rapid-fire reviews of 40 Xbox video games I picked up in 2023. Happy New Year!
Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection
The Ezio Collection retains the fantastic storytelling, amazing characters, and gorgeous world-building that helped build Assassin’s Creed into the giant franchise it is today. However, the absence of significant improvements and substantial bonus content makes it a challenging compilation to recommend.
Far Cry New Dawn
For a Far Cry enthusiast like myself, diving back into the tweaked open-world map of Far Cry 5 in New Dawn is a joy, offering the familiar thrill of clearing outposts and causing chaos, whether in solo play or co-op. While the story and final boss left something to be desired, the addition of Expeditions brings a thrilling new dimension, making the overall experience an enjoyable diversion as we anticipate the next major release in the Far Cry series.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Marvel’s Midnight Suns propels Firaxis into the realm of esteemed RPG developers such as BioWare, Obsidian, Bethesda, and Larian. While its innovative turn-based hero combat system takes a moment to unfold, it masterfully integrates card game mechanics to maintain the freshness, evolution, and unpredictability of battles throughout the expansive campaign. The emotional weight of the supernatural apocalypse story is heightened by the family dynamic between the hero and villain. Although forging intense friendships with iconic Marvel superheroes may feel forced, delving into their backstories and conflicts adds intrigue. Moreover, the power progression tied to activities outside combat enhances the overall experience, making it a worthwhile endeavor.
Back to the Future
Back to the Future pleasantly surprises as a game inspired by the movie that actually excels. It takes the characters on intriguing paths, weaves a compelling story, and though it’s the initial episode of five, completing it left me both fulfilled and eager for what unfolds next. The game balances humor and cleverness, leaning towards simplicity, making it a delightful journey fans shouldn’t overlook.
Assassin’s Creed III
Assassin’s Creed III delivers an overall enjoyable experience, though it lacks consistent brilliance. Some aspects fail to seamlessly integrate, and certain mission constraints can impede the freedom the game strives to offer. However, it earns respect for its remarkable open-world setting and a narrative that, despite occasional lulls, outshines many other games. While not a monumental leap forward, Assassin’s Creed III stands among the series’ best achievements, even if it falls short of claiming the top spot.
Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 1
Telltale’s genuine affection for Minecraft, coupled with an engaging and gratifying climax, prevents Minecraft: Story Mode Episode 4 – A Block and a Hard Place from descending into a new series low marked by lackluster dialogue and a wandering plot. While the pace remains somewhat sluggish and the storyline predictable, it falls short of receiving wholehearted endorsement.
Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 2
Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 2 is a fun and engaging adventure game that continues the story of Jesse and his friends from the first season. The game features a branching narrative, where the player’s choices affect the outcome of the story. The game has colorful graphics, charming voice acting, and humorous dialogue that will appeal to fans of the Minecraft franchise and newcomers alike. Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 2 is a game that is worth playing for anyone who enjoys a good story and a lot of creativity.
WWE 2K16
WWE 2K16 is a wrestling game that delivers a realistic and immersive experience for fans of the sport. The game features a large roster of WWE superstars, legends, and divas, as well as a variety of match types, arenas, and modes. One of the highlights of the game is the Stone Cold showcase mode, which lets players relive the career of the legendary Steve Austin, from his debut in WCW to his final match at WrestleMania XIX. The mode includes historical footage, commentary, and objectives that recreate some of the most memorable moments in Stone Cold’s history. WWE 2K16 is a must-have for anyone who loves wrestling and wants to live out their fantasy matches.
WWE 2K17
WWE 2K17 is a wrestling game that improves on its predecessor in many ways. The game offers a deeper and more realistic gameplay, with new features such as backstage brawls, crowd fights, and ladder physics. The game also has a huge roster of WWE and NXT superstars, as well as a comprehensive creation suite that lets players customize every aspect of their wrestling experience. However, the game also has some drawbacks, such as the absence of the showcase mode, which was a fan-favorite in WWE 2K16. The game also suffers from some technical issues, such as glitches, bugs, and long loading times. WWE 2K17 is a great game for wrestling enthusiasts, but it also has some room for improvement.
WWE 2K18
WWE 2K18 is a thrilling and realistic wrestling game that lets the player experience the excitement of the WWE universe. The game features a large roster of WWE superstars, legends, and hall of famers, as well as a variety of match types, arenas, and modes. The game also has a robust creation suite, where the player can customize their own wrestlers, moves, entrances, and more. The game has impressive graphics, sound, and animation that make the matches feel authentic and immersive. WWE 2K18 is a game that is sure to please any fan of wrestling and sports entertainment.
WWE 2K19
WWE 2K19 is a spectacular and immersive wrestling game that delivers the best of WWE action. The game features a huge roster of WWE superstars, legends, and hall of famers, as well as a new Showcase mode that follows the career of Daniel Bryan. The game also has a MyCareer mode, where the player can create their own wrestler and rise through the ranks of the WWE. The game has stunning graphics, sound, and animation that make the matches feel realistic and dynamic. WWE 2K19 is a game that is a must-have for any fan of wrestling and sports entertainment.
WWE 2K20
WWE 2K20 is a wrestling game that offers a lot of content and features for the fans of the WWE. The game features a new 2K Showcase mode that focuses on the Women’s Evolution, a new 2K Originals mode that adds fantasy elements to the WWE, and a revamped MyCareer mode that lets the player create both a male and a female wrestler. The game also has a large roster of WWE superstars, legends, and hall of famers, as well as a comprehensive creation suite. However, the game also suffers from some technical issues, such as glitches, bugs, and crashes, that can affect the gameplay and the presentation. WWE 2K20 is a game that has a lot of potential, but also needs a lot of improvement.
RetroMania Wrestling
RetroMania Wrestling is a wrestling game that pays homage to the classic arcade games of the past. The game features a colorful and pixelated graphics style, a catchy and nostalgic soundtrack, and a simple and fun gameplay. The game has a roster of 16 wrestlers, including legends like Road Warrior Animal, Tommy Dreamer, and Nick Aldis, as well as modern stars like Zack Sabre Jr., Colt Cabana, and Johnny Retro. The game also has several modes, such as story mode, 10 pounds of gold mode, and retro rumble mode. RetroMania Wrestling is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves wrestling and retro gaming.
Iron Brigade
Iron Brigade is a unique and addictive tower defense game that combines third-person shooter and mech customization elements. The game lets the player control a Mobile Trench, a giant robot that can be equipped with various weapons and accessories, and fight against the evil Monovision menace. The game has a humorous and retro-futuristic style, inspired by the World War I era. The game also has a co-op mode, where up to four players can team up and defend their bases from waves of enemies. Iron Brigade is a game that is fun, challenging, and original.
Life is Strange: True Colors
Life is Strange: True Colors raises the series’ standards. Deck Nine adeptly delves into poignant themes, eliciting genuine emotions both within the game and in its players. The well-crafted characters, compelling set pieces, and stunning visuals, accompanied by a beautiful soundscape, contribute to a remarkable gaming experience.
EA Sports Rory Mcllory PGA Tour
EA Sports Rory Mcllory PGA Tour is a golf game that lets the player experience the thrill of playing on some of the most famous courses in the world. The game features a variety of modes, such as career, tour, and online, as well as a selection of golfers, including the titular Rory Mcllory. The game has realistic graphics, sound, and physics that make the golfing feel authentic and satisfying. However, the game also has some drawbacks, such as a lack of content, customization, and difficulty options, that can make the game feel repetitive and easy. EA Sports Rory Mcllory PGA Tour is a game that is enjoyable for golf fans, but also leaves room for improvement.
Marvel’s Avengers
Marvel’s Avengers is a superhero game that lets the player control some of the most iconic characters from the Marvel universe, such as Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and more. The game has a story mode, where the player can follow the original plot of the Avengers reassembling after a tragic event, as well as a multiplayer mode, where the player can team up with other players and take on various missions and challenges. The game has stunning graphics, sound, and animation that bring the Marvel world to life. Marvel’s Avengers is a game that is a blast for any fan of the Marvel comics and movies.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy
Eidos Montreal’s Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy delivers a captivating solo gaming experience with impressive artistry, enjoyable combat mechanics, and a standout script. While certain elements, such as animations, may fall short, they don’t detract from the overall satisfying experience. Our playthrough was filled with joy, immersing us in the fantastic world through engaging dialogues and thrilling combat sequences.
The Golf Club
The Golf Club is a golf simulation game that offers a realistic and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts. The game features a stunning and dynamic environment, with procedurally generated courses that change every time you play. The game also has a powerful course editor, allowing players to create and share their own courses with the online community. The game has a simple and intuitive control scheme, with no power meters or aiming aids, making every shot a test of skill and strategy. The Golf Club is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves golf and wants to enjoy a relaxing and rewarding game.
The Golf Club 2
The Golf Club 2 is a golf simulation game that offers a realistic and challenging golfing experience. The game features a course creator, where the player can design and share their own courses, as well as a career mode, where the player can join and create online societies and compete in tournaments. The game has impressive graphics, sound, and physics that make the golfing feel authentic and immersive. However, the game also has some flaws, such as a steep learning curve, a lack of tutorials, and a bland presentation, that can make the game feel frustrating and dull. The Golf Club 2 is a game that is rewarding for golf enthusiasts, but also requires a lot of patience and practice.
The Golf Club 2019 featuring PGA Tour
The Golf Club 2019 featuring PGA Tour is a golf simulation game that delivers a realistic and immersive golfing experience. The game features the official PGA Tour license, where the player can play on some of the most famous courses in the world, such as TPC Sawgrass, TPC Scottsdale, and TPC Boston. The game also has a course creator, where the player can design and share their own courses, as well as a career mode, where the player can rise through the ranks of the PGA Tour. The game has impressive graphics, sound, and physics that make the golfing feel authentic and satisfying. The Golf Club 2019 featuring PGA Tour is a game that is a treat for any fan of golf and sports simulation.
Halo Infinite
Over the last two decades, Halo has held significant meaning for me—from the initial exploration of the ring in Halo 1 to the unexpected Arbiter arc in Halo 2 and the disappointment of Halo 5’s storytelling. This gaming series stands out for me, where each new mainline entry carries substantial weight. After six years, there was a legitimate question: Does Halo still deserve a place in the “Best Shooter” discussion, and would I still be invested? Halo Infinite unequivocally affirms both concerns with a resounding yes. Allowing us to navigate a vast open ring with nearly complete freedom in combat, utilizing a variety of iconic weapons, vehicles, and toys, has truly revitalized Halo’s single-player campaign as one of the finest, not to mention its impressive multiplayer suite. Despite some shortcomings in the story and environmental diversity, Infinite recovers with flair.
Ridge Racer 6
Ridge Racer 6 is a thrilling racing game that offers a variety of modes, tracks, and cars to suit any player’s preference. The game features stunning graphics, arcade physics, and smooth controls that make every race a joy to play. The game also has a robust online multiplayer mode that allows players to compete with others from around the world. Ridge Racer 6 is a must-have for fans of the genre and a great addition to the Xbox 360 library.
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell
Splinter Cell is a stealth action game that puts the player in the role of Sam Fisher, an elite agent of a secret organization. The game challenges the player to infiltrate various locations, avoid detection, and neutralize enemies using a variety of gadgets and weapons. The game features a gripping story, immersive environments, and realistic sound effects that create a tense and atmospheric experience. Splinter Cell is a masterpiece of the genre and a must-play for fans of espionage and thrillers.
Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition
Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition is a fighting game that delivers brutal and satisfying combat, as well as a rich and engaging story mode. The game features a roster of over 30 characters, each with their own unique moves, fatalities, and x-ray attacks. The game also includes four additional characters, 15 classic skins, and three classic fatalities from previous games. The game supports online and offline multiplayer, as well as a challenge tower mode that tests the player’s skills. Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition is a comprehensive and rewarding game for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe
Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe is a thrilling crossover fighting game that pits iconic characters from two legendary franchises against each other. The game features a unique story mode that blends the dark and gritty Mortal Kombat universe with the heroic and fantastical DC universe. The game also offers a variety of modes, such as arcade, versus, online, and kombo challenge, that cater to different play styles and skill levels. The game boasts a fluid and responsive combat system that allows players to unleash devastating moves and combos, as well as perform brutal fatalities and heroic brutalities. The game’s graphics and sound are impressive, capturing the essence and atmosphere of both worlds. Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe is a must-have for fans of both Mortal Kombat and DC, as well as anyone who enjoys a fast-paced and fun fighting game.
Lake
Lake is a remarkable achievement in storytelling and character development within a concise timeframe. This adventure game invites players to craft their own tales in Providence Oaks, where compelling narratives and characters unfold seamlessly and organically.
Gone Home
Gone Home is a narrative-driven game that explores the themes of family, identity, and mystery. The game follows the story of Kaitlin Greenbriar, who returns to her family’s house after a year abroad, only to find it empty and full of clues. The game lets the player explore the house at their own pace, discovering the secrets and stories of the Greenbriar family through various objects, notes, and recordings. The game has a captivating and emotional story, with superb voice acting and atmospheric sound design. Gone Home is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves immersive and interactive storytelling.
Gears of War
Gears of War is a third-person shooter game that delivers a thrilling and intense experience for action fans. The game follows the story of Marcus Fenix, a soldier who leads a squad of COG forces against the monstrous Locust Horde, who have emerged from the underground to wipe out humanity. The game features a stunning and gritty graphics style, a cinematic and immersive story, and a visceral and satisfying combat system. The game also has a co-op mode, allowing players to team up with a friend and fight through the campaign together. Gears of War is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves epic and explosive action.
Gears of War 2
Gears of War 2 is a third-person shooter game that improves on the original in every aspect. The game continues the story of Marcus Fenix and his squad of COG soldiers, who must fight against the Locust Horde and their new threat, the Lambent. The game features a stunning and immersive graphics style, a gripping and emotional story, and a refined and addictive combat system. The game also has a co-op mode, a multiplayer mode, and a new mode called Horde, where players must survive waves of enemies. Gears of War 2 is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves action, adventure, and drama.
Gears of War 3
Gears of War 3 is a third-person shooter game that concludes the epic saga of Marcus Fenix and his squad of COG soldiers, who must fight against the Locust Horde and the Lambent in a desperate attempt to save humanity. The game features a stunning and immersive graphics style, a thrilling and emotional story, and a polished and satisfying combat system. The game also has a co-op mode, a multiplayer mode, and a new mode called Beast, where players can play as the Locust. Gears of War 3 is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves action, adventure, and drama.
Gears of War: Judgement
Gears of War: Judgement is a third-person shooter game that serves as a prequel to the original trilogy. The game follows the story of Damon Baird and his squad of Kilo, who are put on trial for treason after a covert mission against the Locust. The game features a fast-paced and dynamic gameplay, with new features such as declassified missions, smart spawn system, and overrun mode. The game also has a co-op mode, a multiplayer mode, and a new mode called Aftermath, which connects the story to Gears of War 3. However, the game also has some flaws, such as a short and linear campaign, a lack of variety in weapons and enemies, and a reduced gore and violence. Gears of War: Judgement is a game that will appeal to fans of the series, but it also has some room for improvement.
Gears of War 4
Gears of War 4 is a third-person shooter game that introduces a new generation of heroes and enemies to the iconic franchise. The game follows the story of JD Fenix, the son of Marcus Fenix, who must fight against a new threat called the Swarm, with the help of his friends Del and Kait. The game features a stunning and immersive graphics style, a thrilling and action-packed story, and a smooth and responsive combat system. The game also has a co-op mode, a multiplayer mode, and a new mode called Horde 3.0, where players must defend their base from waves of enemies. Gears of War 4 is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves action, adventure, and drama.
Halo 5: Guardians
Halo 5 is a first-person shooter game that continues the epic saga of Master Chief and his allies, who must face a new enemy called the Guardians, as well as a rogue Spartan team led by Locke. The game features a stunning and immersive graphics style, a fast-paced and thrilling gameplay, and a rich and diverse multiplayer mode. The game also has a co-op mode, where players can team up with three friends and play through the campaign together. However, the game also has some drawbacks, such as a weak and confusing story, a lack of split-screen mode, and a limited customization options. Halo 5 is a game that will appeal to fans of the series, but it also has some room for improvement.
Tekken 6
Tekken 6 is a fighting game that offers a deep and satisfying experience for fans of the genre. The game features a large and diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique fighting style, moves, and combos. The game also has a variety of modes, such as arcade mode, story mode, online mode, and scenario campaign mode, where players can explore a 3D environment and fight enemies. The game has a stunning and fluid graphics style, with realistic animations and physics. Tekken 6 is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves fighting and competition.
Tekken 7
Tekken 7 is a fighting game that delivers a thrilling and satisfying experience for fans of the genre. The game features a large and diverse roster of characters, including new additions such as Akuma, Geese, and Noctis. The game also has a variety of modes, such as arcade mode, story mode, online mode, and treasure battle mode, where players can earn customization items and fight special opponents. The game has a stunning and fluid graphics style, with realistic animations and physics. The game also has a dynamic and cinematic camera system, which enhances the impact and excitement of the fights. Tekken 7 is a game that will appeal to anyone who loves fighting and competition.
Evil Dead: The Game
Evil Dead: The Game stands out as an impressive asymmetric multiplayer experience, surpassing expectations despite notable polish issues and a limited selection of maps and modes. As a survivor, the cooperative shooter aspect delivers a fantastic experience, though occasional challenges arise from janky level geometry and questionable design choices. Playing as the evil mastermind, however, is genuinely magnificent, offering amusingly fiendish ways to disrupt the opposing team. While the single-player story missions may be a chaotic mix, the overall gameplay pays homage to the classic cheesy movies that inspired it.
Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game of the Movie
Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game of the Movie is a thrilling action-adventure game that immerses you in the world of Skull Island. You can play as both Jack Driscoll, a scriptwriter who must survive the dangers of the island, and King Kong, a giant gorilla who must protect his love interest Ann Darrow from the natives and other creatures. The game features stunning graphics, realistic sound effects, and a cinematic presentation that makes you feel like you are part of the movie. The game also offers a variety of gameplay modes, such as first-person shooting, stealth, puzzle-solving, and third-person combat. Whether you are exploring the island, fighting enemies, or controlling Kong, you will never get bored of this game. Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game of the Movie is a must-have for fans of the film and anyone who enjoys a good adventure game.
Warhammer: Vermintide
Warhammer: Vermintide is a co-op shooter that puts you and your friends in the shoes of five heroes who must fight their way through hordes of rat-like skaven and other enemies in the Warhammer Fantasy world. The game offers a variety of weapons, classes, and skills to suit your playstyle, as well as a loot system that rewards you with new gear and upgrades. The game’s graphics are stunning, the sound effects are immersive, and the level design is diverse and challenging. Warhammer: Vermintide is a great game for fans of co-op action, hack-n-slash combat, and the Warhammer lore.
Serious Sam 4
Serious Sam 4 is a blast from the past that delivers non-stop action and humor. You can play as the iconic Sam Stone, a wise-cracking hero who must save the world from an alien invasion. The game features a huge variety of enemies, weapons, and environments, as well as a co-op mode that lets you team up with your friends. The game’s graphics are impressive, especially when you see hundreds of enemies on the screen at once. The game’s sound effects are also immersive, with Sam’s witty remarks and the enemies’ screams adding to the fun. Serious Sam 4 is a great game for fans of old-school shooters and anyone who enjoys a good laugh.