As we forge ahead into 2023, the landscape of PC gaming continues to evolve with an exciting lineup of new titles. From the lush fantasy worlds to the gritty realism of post-apocalyptic survival, there’s a game for every type of player. This year promises to bring a diverse array of gaming experiences to your fingertips. Here’s a sneak peek at the top 10 new PC games to look out for in 2023, each poised to redefine genres and push the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
Key Takeaways
- Dragon’s Dogma 2 leads the charge with its highly anticipated sequel, promising to expand on its open-world RPG legacy.
- Solium Infernum offers a strategic descent into the depths of hell, challenging players to outwit opponents and rule the underworld.
- Pacific Drive puts players behind the wheel in a survival road trip through a supernatural Pacific Northwest.
- Balatro is set to introduce a new twist on the action genre, with details remaining tantalizingly mysterious.
- Last Epoch aims to satisfy hardcore RPG fans with its deep customization and time-travel mechanics.
1. Dragon’s Dogma 2
Finally, the long-awaited Dragon’s Dogma 2 has made its grand entrance, marking a triumphant return after a 12-year hiatus. This title is not just a sequel but a reimagining that expands upon the original with a plethora of new vocations and a vast world ripe for exploration.
In Dragon’s Dogma 2, players embark on an epic quest to slay The Dragon and shed the curse of immortality. The game boasts significant improvements, including an enhanced combat system, smarter AI for Pawns, and visually stunning graphics that deepen the immersion into its dark, fantastical world.
The journey in Dragon’s Dogma 2 is filled with new challenges, monstrous foes, and uncharted territories. With the help of Pawns, whose AI has been refined to better adapt to your playstyle, players will face the Dragon that has cursed them, seeking to reclaim their heart and their fate.
Capcom has also addressed the initial PC performance concerns, ensuring that upcoming updates will enhance the gaming experience:
2. Solium Infernum
In the depths of the underworld, Solium Infernum beckons players to engage in a battle of wits and strategy. As the Prince of Darkness disappears, a power vacuum emerges, challenging Archfiends to vie for the ultimate seat of power: the Infernal Throne. This turn-based grand strategy game is not just about brute force; it’s a test of cunning and diplomacy amidst the fiery pits of hell.
Players must muster their legions, engage in intricate political maneuvers, and outsmart their rivals to ascend as the new ruler of the dark realms. With a variety of strategies at your disposal, every playthrough promises a unique experience shaped by your decisions.
In Solium Infernum, the art of war is as much about the battles you choose to fight as the alliances you forge and the betrayals you orchestrate.
The game’s complexity is matched by its atmospheric visuals and deep lore, making it a standout title for strategy enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in a diabolical power struggle.
3. Pacific Drive
Pacific Drive sets you on a harrowing journey through the radiated Olympic Exclusion Zone, where survival hinges on the integrity of your trusty station wagon. This isn’t your typical driving game; it’s a blend of crafting-survival, roguelike elements, and a ’90s conspiracy thriller aesthetic that stands out in the genre.
As you navigate the treacherous roads, your mission is to uncover the mysteries of the zone’s creation and the forces behind its desolation. Your car is more than a vehicle; it’s your lifeline against the horrors lurking within the zone.
The game’s unique mechanics require you to manage your car’s components—handbrake, wipers, headlights—while adapting to unpredictable weather conditions. The thrill of emergent chase sequences combines panic and amusement, testing your ability to stay calm under pressure.
- Gather materials and resources to upgrade your vehicle.
- Maintain and improve your car to strengthen your survival chances.
- Unravel the story behind the zone’s eerie existence.
Ironwood Studios’ debut promises an experience where the bond between driver and vehicle becomes pivotal. The better you care for your car, the stronger your alliance will be in facing the zone’s myriad challenges.
4. Balatro
Balatro is a fresh take on the roguelike genre, blending classic poker mechanics with strategic deck-building. Players are tasked with constructing a deck to play poker hands, such as pairs, flushes, and straights, to win ‘chips’ and progress through increasingly challenging levels. Each level raises the stakes with a higher chip requirement, and boss levels introduce unique modifiers that add a twist to the gameplay.
The beauty of Balatro lies in its simplicity and the addictive challenge of building an unbeatable deck. It’s a game that encourages creativity and strategy, offering a new obsession for fans of the genre.
The game has been praised for its ability to let players ‘break the game’ by finding powerful combinations and strategies. With an entry price of around $15, Balatro offers great value for a deeply engaging experience. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Balatro stand out:
- Deceptively simple gameplay
- Addictive deck-building mechanics
- The thrill of ‘breaking the game’
- Affordable entry price
- Engaging for both poker enthusiasts and roguelike fans
5. Last Epoch
Embark on a journey through the dark fantasy world of Eterra, where the Void has left its mark, and the fate of history lies in your hands. Last Epoch, developed and published by Eleventh Hour Games, is an action RPG that has garnered attention for its cinematic scale and commitment to improving upon the genre’s classic mechanics.
The game’s release on Steam is set for February 21, 2024, and it promises to deliver a blend of action, adventure, indie, and RPG elements that will captivate fans of the genre. With a player-friendly approach and a promise of substantial free updates, Last Epoch is poised to offer a long-term engagement for its players.
Last Epoch stands out with its unique time-traveling feature, allowing players to alter the course of history. This mechanic not only adds depth to the gameplay but also provides a narrative richness that is sure to keep players invested.
As you prepare to join the fight to save Eterra, consider the various classes available in Last Epoch, each offering a distinct playstyle and set of abilities. The game has already shown its potential during its early access phase, indicating a strong community support and anticipation for its full release.
6. Banishers Ghosts of New Eden
Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is poised to be a standout title in the action RPG genre. Developed by the acclaimed studio Don’t Nod, this game promises a blend of intense action and deep narrative. Players will embark on a journey filled with peril and emotional depth, controlling two characters whose fates are intertwined.
The combat system in Banishers is a departure from Don’t Nod’s previous puzzle-solving focus, offering a more action-oriented experience. Gamers will need to master the art of switching between the protagonists’ unique abilities to overcome challenges and defeat Elite enemies that serve as formidable chapter finales.
While there may be minor issues, the game’s strong writing and innovative mechanics make it a title to watch. The dual-character control scheme adds a layer of strategy that will keep players engaged throughout their adventure.
Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is not just about combat; it’s a hauntingly beautiful tale of two lovers against a backdrop of tragedy and supernatural threats. It’s a game that’s likely to resonate with players long after the credits roll.
7. Persona 3 Reload
Persona 3 Reload revives the enchantment of the original, bringing a modern twist to the beloved classic. The game’s Shift mechanic has been praised for making SP management more efficient during the extensive explorations of Tartarus. While the absence of the epilogue chapter and second protagonist may disappoint long-time fans, newcomers will find this title to be an ideal gateway into the Persona universe.
The game’s narrative strength lies in its exploration of themes such as loss and legacy. The updated battle system is streamlined, enhancing playability and accessibility for both veterans and new players alike. As a transfer student joining the SEES club, players will delve into the mystery of the Dark Hour and confront the shadows responsible for the widespread ‘Apathy Syndrome’.
Persona 3 Reload stands out with its unique sense of style, unmatched even by its successors in the series. It’s not just a game; it’s a stylish journey through a world of intrigue and supernatural challenges.
For those eager to dive in, here’s a quick guide to get started:
- Experience the Dark Hour and join the SEES club.
- Manage your time effectively between battles and daily life.
- Engage in the revamped battle system.
- Explore the themes of loss and the consequences of the past.
- Enjoy the game’s cool aesthetic that sets it apart from other RPGs.
Available on Game Pass, Persona 3 Reload is a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts and those looking to experience a game with heart, soul, and style.
8. Tekken 8
The Tekken series continues to impress with its latest installment, Tekken 8, which launched on January 26, 2024. This title is not only a visual feast, thanks to the Unreal Engine 5, but it also brings a robust roster and a variety of stages that promise to keep players engaged for years to come.
With a total of 32 fighters and 16 unique stages, the game offers a rich experience for both newcomers and veterans. The cross-platform feature ensures that friends can battle it out regardless of their console choice.
Tekken 8 is an incredibly impressive game, with its detailed environments and accessible modes making it a standout in the fighting game genre.
The game’s mechanics are deep and rewarding, demanding players to invest time to master them. However, Tekken 8 also provides a range of modes to enjoy, from the competitive Tekken Ball to the more narrative-driven Story mode. For those looking to dive into the series’ lore or sharpen their skills, the game’s story modes, The Dark Awakens and Arcade Quest, are perfect starting points.
9. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth marks a pinnacle in the series, offering a blend of deep narrative and quirky gameplay that fans have come to adore. With a story that’s both sprawling and captivating, players can expect to invest nearly 100 hours to fully explore the game’s main and side content.
The game’s shift to turn-based RPG mechanics has been a hit, providing a seamless mix of intense Yakuza drama and whimsical escapades. Whether unraveling the mystery of Ichiban’s mother or summoning crustacean allies in battle, Infinite Wealth keeps players consistently engaged.
Moving beyond the familiar streets of Japan, Infinite Wealth takes players to the vibrant locales of Hawaii. Here, Ichiban Kasuga’s journey intertwines with Kazuma Kiryu’s, offering a fresh perspective while dealing with personal challenges.
For newcomers and series veterans alike, Infinite Wealth is an accessible entry point with plenty of nods to its long history. It’s a game that not only respects its roots but also opens its arms to a broader audience, ensuring that everyone feels part of its storied legacy.
10. Palworld
Palworld is a unique entry in the realm of creature-based adventure games, offering an open world teeming with ‘Pals’ – animal-like creatures that players can capture and utilize in various ways. Unlike its predecessors in the genre, Palworld introduces a survival aspect that has captivated a massive audience, leading to its rapid rise in popularity.
In Palworld, the traditional elements of creature capture and battling are combined with unexpected twists. Players can arm their Pals with firearms, creating a bizarre yet intriguing blend of companionship and combat. This feature alone sets Palworld apart, providing a fresh take on the familiar ‘collect and battle’ formula.
The game also emphasizes base building and resource management. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can do with your Pals:
- Engage them in battles
- Utilize them for base construction and traversal
- Assign them to operate machinery for item production
In the world of Palworld, your Pals are more than just companions; they are integral to your survival and progress. Whether they’re helping you fend off foes or working on production lines to craft essential items, your Pals are the cornerstone of your adventure.
With its innovative gameplay and the ability to put Pals to work, Palworld is not just another creature-capture game; it’s a survival game that challenges players to think strategically about how they use their Pals to thrive in a vast and unpredictable world.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to the rest of 2023, the lineup of new PC games is nothing short of exhilarating. From the return of beloved franchises to the introduction of innovative new worlds, there’s a treasure trove of digital adventures waiting for us. Whether you’re a fan of intense action, deep strategy, or immersive storytelling, this year promises to deliver experiences that will captivate and challenge gamers of all stripes. Keep your gaming rigs at the ready, for the titles we’ve discussed are poised to redefine our expectations and push the boundaries of PC gaming to new heights. Remember to mark your calendars, wishlist your favorites, and prepare for countless hours of entertainment with the best that 2023 has to offer in PC gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the top new PC games to look out for in 2023?
Some of the top new PC games to look out for in 2023 include Dragon’s Dogma 2, Solium Infernum, Pacific Drive, Balatro, Last Epoch, Banishers Ghosts of New Eden, Persona 3 Reload, Tekken 8, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and Palworld.
Are there any highly-anticipated PC games coming soon?
Yes, there are many highly-anticipated PC games coming soon, including Dragon’s Dogma 2, Solium Infernum, and others that have generated significant excitement among the gaming community.
What genres do the new PC games for 2023 cover?
The new PC games for 2023 cover a variety of genres, including RPGs, strategy games, driving simulations, fighting games, and more, offering something for every type of gamer.
Will there be any sequel games released in 2023 for PC?
Yes, several sequel games are expected to be released in 2023 for PC, such as Dragon’s Dogma 2, Tekken 8, and Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
Are there any remakes or remasters among the new PC games for 2023?
While the list provided focuses on new titles, there are also remakes and remasters slated for release in 2023, such as Persona 3 Reload, which is a refreshed version of the classic game.
How can I stay updated on the release dates for the upcoming PC games?
To stay updated on the release dates for upcoming PC games, you can follow gaming news websites, subscribe to newsletters, and keep an eye on official announcements from game developers and publishers.
