Selecting the Game of the Year is always a challenging task for reviewers, especially when they're inundated by a torrent of quality releases across various platforms like PS5 and PS4. But for Brett Posner-Ferdman, distilling the entire year's offerings down to a top-notch quintet was not just a duty, but a delight.
At number five, Brett sets his sights on "Bomb Rush Cyberfunk." In a crowded landscape, this game managed to stand out with its vibrant energy and game mechanics that pay homage to the cult favorite "Jet Set Radio." The game nails every aspect of what it sets out to do, creating an intoxicating blend of gameplay, style, and music, making it a severely underrated gem.
Moving forward, "Sonic Superstars" races into the fourth spot, despite early skepticism given its developing company's history. Much to Brett's—and likely many others'—surprise, the game delivered a fast, fun, and fresh addition to Sonic's legacy, introducing new mechanics like emerald powers and new characters that made the experience thrilling. Although the boss fights may present a slight hiccup, Brett's overall experience with Sonic's latest installment is overwhelmingly positive, leading him to anticipate future developments with gusto.
The third place is occupied by none other than "Street Fighter 6," which managed to exceed Brett's expectations. Its refined gameplay and its accessibility even for those who are not hardcore fighting game aficionados made it the go-to multiplayer experience of the year. Packed with strategic depth and fast-paced action, the game's post-launch additions were the only areas that didn't match the intensity of the core game - a small gripe for an otherwise stellar sequel.
If there's a game that thoroughly surpassed expectations, "Marvel's Spider-Man 2" did just that as it swung into the second spot. Initially, Brett wasn't as captivated by the excitement surrounding the game, feeling it would be too similar to its predecessors. However, the game proved him wrong by elevating the stakes, refining combat, and enhancing the web-slinging experience with the addition of web wings—transforming the sequel into an exquisite elevation of the Spider-Man series.
As we reach the peak of Brett's gaming summit for 2023, "Resident Evil 4" is crowned the undeniable champion of the year. With the original installment held in such high regard, the remake had the challenging task of living up to the legacy of a legendary game. Capcom rose to the occasion gracefully, reimagining iconic moments and integrating them smoothly within the universe created by the remakes of "Resident Evil 2" and "Resident Evil 3." Even more praiseworthy is how "Separate Ways" DLC managed to ascend as the pinnacle piece of additional content released in 2023. This remake wasn't just a successful revival—it was a testament to why "Resident Evil 4" is revered among the greatest games ever made.
Brett's curation of the top five games on PS5 and PS4 this year showcases a selection of titles that struck a chord with him. Some bolstered legacy franchises to new heights, while others pleasantly defied expectations, and each served as a reminder of the joy and artistry found in video gaming. Whether one aligns with Brett's choices or contests them, there's no denying the impact these games have had within the vibrant tapestry of gaming culture in 2023.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
