As we wave goodbye to 2023, the air is thick with retrospectives and award lists that highlight the year's top video games. Nintendo Life has decided to take a playful turn with its own Alternative Game Awards for the year 2023, shedding light on various gaming elements that have made us chuckle or scratch our heads. These unconventional awards are a lighthearted way to commend some of the more distinctive and less conventional moments in gaming over the year.
Let's kick off the celebration with a title that's so lengthy, it's almost a quest in itself to recite. Mon-Yu takes the prize for the 'Most Long-Winded Switch Game Title 2023', with its name reading like a pep talk to players encouraging them not to admit defeat. Titles like Song of Nunu and Atelier Marie Remake were contenders too but couldn't quite match Mon-Yu's verbosity.
Next, the award for the 'Best Game That Doesn't Fit Neatly On Any Of Our Genre Lists' goes to Dredge, a hypnotizing blend of fishing, horror, and RPG elements. It defied genre conventions and offered players a deeply unique experience that earned a glowing review and a commendable 8 out of 10 score from Nintendo Life. If you're looking for something that'll reel you in with its originality, Dredge might just be the catch of the day.
When we gaze upon the Switch's dashboard, the 'Best Switch Icon' of the year stands out: Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Its color usage is as captivating as its gameplay, and the iconic illustration by Yoji Shinkawa is a true masterpiece. While MGS had some tough competition, the beauty of Snake Eater's emblem won the day.
The award for the 'Best End-Of-Year Arrival That Dropped Too Late To Make Our GOTY List' is granted to Outer Wilds. Its delayed arrival to the Switch was a long-awaited event, and it did not disappoint, soaring to a 9/10 in reviews. If you haven't had the chance to dive into its mysteries, the holiday season might be the perfect time.
For the 'Best Retro Remaster Or Re-Release', Digital Eclipse's The Making of Karateka emerges victorious. It's not just a game—it's an educational journey through the history and craftsmanship of the classic title. The attention to detail and dedication to preservation make it an outstanding example of how to honor gaming's past. Digital Eclipse's commitment to this kind of project continues, promising more nostalgic trips down memory lane in 2024.
Now, clench your teeth for the 'Best Worst Best Worst Game' award, which paradoxically goes to Vampire Survivors. This game has proven to be an addictive experience that has left many with a colloquial gaming hangover. Its ability to draw players into hours of gameplay could be seen as a testament to its compelling design. Despite the eyebags and loss of sleep, this game is highly praised, capturing the hearts (and nights) of many Switch players.
As we wrap up this list of alternative accolades, let's take a moment to appreciate the lighter side of gaming—the oddities and the endearments that come from a year's worth of interactive entertainment. From memorable icons to games and titles that defy categorization, these awards emphasize that the gaming world is as diverse and colorful as it's ever been. Nintendo Life's Alternative Game Awards remind us that while gaming is a serious business, it doesn't have to take itself too seriously. So let's raise our controllers to the weird, the wonderful, and the games that made 2023 a little brighter, a little more baffling, and a lot more memorable.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
