National Video Game Day, celebrated annually on July 8th, is dedicated to appreciating the art, entertainment, and culture of video games. This special day gives gamers a chance to reflect on their favorite titles, explore new ones, and acknowledge video games’ impact on society. Video games have come a long way since the early days of Pong and Space Invaders, evolving into complex narratives and visually stunning experiences. To mark this occasion, here is every game that Sam rolled credits on in 2023 ranked from worst to best.

Resident Evil 3 (Remake)

Resident Evil 3, released on April 3, 2020, by Capcom, is a survival horror game that reimagines the classic 1999 title. Players navigate the zombie-infested Raccoon City, battling the relentless Nemesis creature while solving puzzles and uncovering the story behind the outbreak. Notable voices include Nicole Tompkins as Jill Valentine and Jeff Schine as Carlos Oliveira.

Sam’s Take: Sam appreciated the game’s updated graphics and intense atmosphere but felt that it lacked the depth and length of its predecessor, Resident Evil 2 Remake.

Golf Club Wasteland aka Golf Club Nostalgia

Golf Club Wasteland, also known as Golf Club Nostalgia, was released on September 3, 2021, by Demagog Studio. This game offers a unique twist on golf, set in a post-apocalyptic world. Players navigate surreal landscapes, hitting golf balls through remnants of humanity’s downfall, accompanied by a haunting and nostalgic soundtrack.

• Sam’s Take: Sam enjoyed the game’s melancholic tone and the social commentary embedded in its story, highlighting it as a thoughtful and reflective experience.

Supraland: Six Inches Under

Supraland: Six Inches Under, released on January 14, 2022, by Supra Games, is a first-person puzzle-platformer that combines elements of exploration and combat. Players traverse a miniature world, solving intricate puzzles and uncovering secrets along the way.

• Sam’s Take: Sam praised the game’s creative level design and clever puzzles, calling it a delightful and engaging adventure.

Alan Wake

Alan Wake, released on May 14, 2010, by Microsoft Game Studios, is a psychological thriller that follows the story of a writer who finds himself in a mysterious town where his latest novel, a horror story, comes to life. The game blends narrative-driven gameplay with intense combat sequences. Notable voices include Matthew Porretta as Alan Wake and James McCaffrey as Thomas Zane.

• Sam’s Take: Sam appreciated the game’s gripping narrative and atmospheric setting, noting it as a must-play for fans of horror and storytelling.

Wolfenstein: The Old Blood

Wolfenstein: The Old Blood, released on May 5, 2015, by Bethesda Softworks, is a standalone expansion to Wolfenstein: The New Order. It takes players on a mission through Nazi-occupied territories, blending intense first-person shooting with stealth elements. Notable voices include Brian Bloom as B.J. Blazkowicz.

• Sam’s Take: Sam found the game to be a solid prequel with exciting gameplay, though it didn’t quite reach the heights of The New Order.

Midnight Fight Express

Midnight Fight Express, released on August 23, 2022, by Humble Games, is an isometric brawler where players fight through waves of enemies using a combination of martial arts and improvised weapons. The game features fast-paced action and a gritty urban setting.

• Sam’s Take: Sam enjoyed the game’s fluid combat mechanics and stylish presentation, recommending it for fans of action-packed brawlers.

Jusant

Jusant is an upcoming title from Dontnod Entertainment, known for their narrative-driven games. Although details are scarce, it promises to deliver a unique and engaging experience.

• Sam’s Take: Sam expressed intrigue and excitement for Jusant, eager to see what the developers will bring to the table.

Xcom 2

Xcom 2, released on February 5, 2016, by 2K Games, is a turn-based strategy game that puts players in command of a resistance force fighting against an alien occupation of Earth. The game is known for its challenging gameplay and deep strategic elements.

• Sam’s Take: Sam lauded Xcom 2 for its strategic depth and replayability, calling it one of the best strategy games available.

Super Mario Galaxy

Super Mario Galaxy, released on November 1, 2007, by Nintendo, is a 3D platformer where Mario travels across various planets to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. The game is celebrated for its innovative level design and imaginative settings.

• Sam’s Take: Sam highlighted the game’s creative gameplay mechanics and timeless appeal, considering it a classic in the Mario series.

Dishonored 2

Dishonored 2, released on November 11, 2016, by Bethesda Softworks, is an action-adventure game that allows players to choose between two protagonists, each with unique abilities. Set in a steampunk world, it combines stealth and combat with a branching narrative. Notable voices include Erica Luttrell as Emily Kaldwin and Stephen Russell as Corvo Attano.

• Sam’s Take: Sam praised the game’s flexible approach to gameplay and rich world-building, recommending it for fans of immersive sims.

Yakuza 0

Yakuza 0, released on March 12, 2015, by SEGA, is an action-adventure game that serves as a prequel to the Yakuza series. It follows the stories of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima in 1980s Japan, blending a serious crime drama with quirky side activities. Notable voices include Takaya Kuroda as Kazuma Kiryu and Hidenari Ugaki as Goro Majima.

• Sam’s Take: Sam loved the game’s balance of intense storytelling and humorous side content, calling it a standout entry in the series.

Halo 3

Halo 3, released on September 25, 2007, by Microsoft Game Studios, is a first-person shooter that concludes the original Halo trilogy. Players control Master Chief as he battles the Covenant and the Flood to save humanity. Notable voices include Steve Downes as Master Chief and Jen Taylor as Cortana.

• Sam’s Take: Sam emphasized the game’s importance in the FPS genre and its enduring legacy as a multiplayer staple.

Dead Space 2

Dead Space 2, released on January 25, 2011, by Electronic Arts, is a survival horror game set in a derelict space station overrun by necromorphs. Players control Isaac Clarke, navigating through terrifying environments and battling horrific creatures. Notable voices include Gunner Wright as Isaac Clarke.

• Sam’s Take: Sam commended the game’s horror elements and intense atmosphere, recommending it for fans of the genre.

A Plague Tale: Requiem

A Plague Tale: Requiem, released on October 18, 2022, by Focus Entertainment, continues the story of siblings Amicia and Hugo as they navigate a plague-ridden world filled with danger and mystery. The game blends stealth, puzzle-solving, and emotional storytelling. Notable voices include Charlotte McBurney as Amicia and Logan Hannan as Hugo.

• Sam’s Take: Sam appreciated the game’s compelling narrative and strong character development, calling it a moving and immersive experience.

Portal 2

Portal 2, released on April 19, 2011, by Valve, is a first-person puzzle-platformer that builds on its predecessor’s innovative mechanics. Players use a portal gun to solve complex puzzles, guided by dark humor and a gripping story. Notable voices include Ellen McLain as GLaDOS and Stephen Merchant as Wheatley.

• Sam’s Take: Sam praised the game’s clever puzzles and witty dialogue, considering it one of the best puzzle games ever made.

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition, released on May 14, 2021, by Electronic Arts, is a remastered collection of the original Mass Effect trilogy. The game follows Commander Shepard’s epic journey to save the galaxy from the Reapers, featuring enhanced graphics and gameplay improvements. Notable voices include Mark Meer and Jennifer Hale as Commander Shepard.

• Sam’s Take: Sam highlighted the game’s improved visuals and the opportunity for new players to experience the beloved series, considering it a must-play for sci-fi RPG fans.

Deathloop

Deathloop, released on September 14, 2021, by Bethesda Softworks, is an action-adventure game where players are trapped in a time loop on the mysterious island of Blackreef. Players must eliminate eight targets before the day resets, using a combination of stealth, strategy, and combat. Notable voices include Jason Kelley as Colt and Ozioma Akagha as Julianna.

• Sam’s Take: Sam enjoyed the game’s unique premise and innovative gameplay mechanics, praising it for its originality and replayability.

Citizen Sleeper

Citizen Sleeper, released on May 5, 2022, by Fellow Traveller, is a narrative-driven RPG set in a dystopian future where players navigate the life of a sleeper, a digital consciousness in a decaying human body. The game focuses on survival, relationships, and exploring the vibrant world of Erlin’s Eye.

• Sam’s Take: Sam appreciated the game’s deep storytelling and engaging world, recommending it for fans of narrative-heavy experiences.

A Short Hike

A Short Hike, released on April 5, 2019, by Adam Robinson-Yu, is a relaxing exploration game where players hike, climb, and soar through the peaceful mountainside of Hawk Peak Provincial Park. The game emphasizes exploration, discovery, and the simple joys of nature.

• Sam’s Take: Sam loved the game’s charming art style and calming atmosphere, calling it a delightful and serene experience.

Inscryption

Inscryption, released on October 19, 2021, by Devolver Digital, is a unique blend of deck-building roguelike, escape-room-style puzzles, and psychological horror. Players must navigate a dark and twisted narrative while building their deck and solving cryptic puzzles.

• Sam’s Take: Sam praised the game’s innovative mix of genres and its compelling, eerie narrative, considering it a standout indie title.

Resident Evil 4 (Remake)

Resident Evil 4, released on March 24, 2023, by Capcom, is a remake of the classic 2005 survival horror game. Players control Leon S. Kennedy as he attempts to rescue the president’s daughter from a mysterious cult. The game features updated graphics, modernized gameplay mechanics, and expanded story elements. Notable voices include Nick Apostolides as Leon S. Kennedy.

• Sam’s Take: Sam appreciated the faithful recreation of the beloved original while introducing new elements, calling it a successful remake that both old and new fans will enjoy.

Celebrate National Video Game Day by exploring these titles, each offering unique experiences and memorable gameplay. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering new favorites, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment and excitement.

ResidentEvil4 | Inscryption | AShortHike | Citizen Sleeper | Deathloop | Mass Effect: Legendary Edition | Portal 2 | A Plague Tale: Requiem | Dead Space 2 | Halo 3 | Yakuza 0 | Dishonored 2 | Super Mario Galaxy | Xcom 2 | Wolfenstein: The Old Blood | Alan Wake | Golf Club Wasteland | Resident Evil 3