Category:Games released in 2023

2023 starts with the discontinuation of the short-lived Google Stadia service and the longer-lived 3DS and Wii U eShops, though things quickly begin to pick up when indie titles like Pizza Tower rise to widespread popularity. Later in the year, classic video game franchises and modern juggernauts alike make the rounds with highly-anticipated new outings. Street Fighter 6 marks a confident return to form for the franchise, Final Fantasy XVI returns the series to its medieval fantasy roots after over a decade of modern, futuristic settings, anticipated titles like Pikmin 4 and Marvel's Spider-Man 2 release to mass critical acclaim, and games like Sonic Superstars and Super Mario Bros. Wonder put exciting new twists on old formulas. Speaking of Mario, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gradually rolls out its Booster Course Pass DLC throughout the year (now changing things up by including additional characters alongside the tracks), with the final wave releasing November 9th, 2023, concluding an almost decade-long run for Mario Kart 8, which originally released in 2014! Four years after its initial reveal, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom wows fans, critics, and even other developers the same way its prequel did at the Switch's launch.

Several more gaming adaptations were made by Hollywood as well. First, HBO aired the TV adaptation of The Last of Us, which became a ratings smash, a critical darling and was nominated for many awards, including winning some Emmys. The success of the series guaranteed a second season that covers The Last of Us Part II. Then, Nintendo collaborates with Universal Pictures and Illumination to try their hand at a Super Mario Bros. movie once again after their previous attempt with Lightmotive/Allied Filmmakers in 1993 floundered. Unlike then, it turns out to be an astounding success for both parties, becoming the third highest-grossing animated film ever, completely smashing the video game movie curse and paving the way for future Nintendo films and non-video game projects. There was even a Gran Turismo movie as well.

On a more somber note, Charles Martinet throws in the towel as the official voice of Mario and co. after nearly 30 years of service, with Kevin Afghani becoming his successor. At the end of the year, E3 finally announces that they’ve kicked the bucket for good after a string of cancellations.