February 14 marks the anniversary of Lara Croft, an occasion its creators ensure you remember with the deliberate launch of Anniversary and Tomb Raider Remastered on this very day.

As we celebrate this 27 landmark in Lara’s career as a heritage defiler, I can think of plenty of better ways to commemorate her legacy in the gaming industry than judging her outfits. But I’m going to do it nonetheless. Whether Lara is raiding tombs or lounging at home, her style never fails to make a statement. You probably remember her in a long braid, fitting shorts, and a blue or dark tank top. However, allow me to take you down memory lane to reminisce about the best Lara Croft outfits — from a classic ensemble to daring catsuits, each outfit brings its own flair to the adventure. Now that Tomb Raider Remastered is in our hands, let’s explore the best outfits in the game.

Tomb Raider 3 Nevada Outfit

This “desert-ready” ensemble is absolutely overhyped. It’s not that the Tomb Raider Remastered version is terrible; it’s just that the Nevada Outfit was never good to begin with. What’s the point of blue camo pants in the middle of the desert? If anything, this outfit makes her an easier target.

Tomb Raider 3 South Pacific Outfit

In Tomb Raider 3, Lara wears a slight variation to the classic outfit: there’s a new color scheme and a white crop top. It’s a subtle change that fits the tropical setting of the South Pacific but doesn’t introduce anything groundbreaking. 

Tomb Raider 1 Home Outfit

When I think of Lara Croft in her mansion, Tomb Raider 1‘s home outfit is the first thing that comes to mind, and the Remaster does a pretty solid rendition of that. It’s the classy barefoot, baggy jeans, and a sports bra trio that we’ve all come to know and love.

Tomb Raider 2 Home Outfit

The original Tomb Raider 2 outfit makes me go, “What are those.” However, Tomb Raider Remastered has completely redone this outfit, especially the extremely angular boots, and turned it into one of the best home outfits for Lara Croft.

Related: PowerWash Simulator – How to complete Croft Manor

Tomb Raider 2 Antarctic Outfit

Is the Antarctic Outfit flashy? Definitely not, but it’s probably the first practical outfit Lara got to wear in the Tomb Raider franchise. Lara’s camouflage trousers and practical gear make this outfit suitable for icy adventures. Its functionality earns it a spot in the wardrobe rotation.

Tomb Raider 3 Catsuit Outfit

The Catsuit showcases a stylish design and attention to detail. While this Tomb Raider Remastered outfit oozes confidence and sass, I have to shave a few points off because this is probably slightly uncomfortable for all of Lara’s parkour shenanigans. Also, because Tomb Raider 3 is the worst in the trilogy.

Tomb Raider 2 Tomb Raider Evening Robe

Lara Croft’s stylist was on a roll in Tomb Raider 2, which carries over to the Remastered outfits. You probably remember this evening robe from the Home Sweet Home level, the game’s final chapter in Croft Manor. It really goes out to show that Lara doesn’t need to stop serving looks, even if she’s at home. 

Tomb Raider 2 Sola Wetsuit Outfit

Lara’s wetsuit in Tomb Raider 2 is sleek and practical. It marks a significant moment in Lara’s journey, in which she also dynamically adapts to extreme environments. Were the underwater adventures great? No, but underwater levels never are. Still, this Tomb Raider Remastered Outfit is one of the best.

Tomb Raider 2 Bomber Jacket Outfit

You’ve got to love how Lara found a random aviator’s jacket and decided to change lives. Lara’s bomber jacket kept her warm and revitalized a dying fashion trend in the late 90’s. It’s a blend of ruggedness and style, which perfectly embodies the essence of Lara’s adventurous spirit. 

Classic Lara Croft Outfit

Lara’s original outfit from Tomb Raider 1 is angular and graphically outdated. It’s also been memed to death. But you wouldn’t dare deny it’s an iconic outfit in Tomb Raider Remastered, or in any entry of the franchise, for that matter. If someone’s dressing up for Lara Croft for Halloween, this is the costume they’ll pick. This look single-handedly revolutionized video game fashion and set the stage for Lara’s adventure-ready style. 

The concept of survival horror, at its roots, is to pit the player against an overwhelming force and give them limited tools to overcome it. It’s a brutal fight that can take many forms, and Behaviour Interactive’s Dead by Daylight is vastly different from Remedy Entertainment’s Alan Wake 2. However, these two studios have plenty of common ground with one another, which makes Alan’s arrival to the unnerving fog a natural fit. As Alan Wake finds himself in a game with a macabre of horror icons and Behaviour Interactive originals, he faces the ultimate challenge to see if he has what it takes to survive alongside a team.

We had the chance to sit down in a group discussion with Behavior Interactive’s senior creative director, Dave Richard, and Remedy Entertainment’s game director, Kyle Rowley. They went back and forth, discussing the driving forces behind their distinct survival horror games and the unique topics their teams regularly discuss to bring about these iconic experiences.

The Love for Cosmic Horror & Fear of the Uncertainty

When you put Alan Wake 2 alongside Dead by Daylight, these two are different experiences. Alan Wake 2 has a distinct narrative, where players have limited resources and have to solve time-sensitive puzzles before being overrun by enemies. Dead by Daylight has players becoming the Survivor or Killer, where one attempts to escape, and the other hunts the others down before they can leave. Although these two are different, they share one important connection: An unknown, cosmic enemy. For Alan Wake 2, it’s the Dark Presence, and Dead by Daylight has the Entity.

Neither cosmic enemies have a set understanding, either, and this is entirely intended by the team. Richard said, “The thing important for us is that when we created this universe, we were as ambiguous as possible. There is no definite truth. We want to leave a lot of the theory building to our fans.”

Rowley offered similar thoughts on how Remedy tackles the Dark Presence. “There are little connection points between your universe and ours in Alan Wake. We have this Dark Place, a nightmare reality that’s creating nightmare fiction based on the people who inhabit it. It’s taking all the experiences and mental thoughts that Alan has had throughout his life and conjuring it as a nightmare. It’s similar to the concepts you [Behaviour] have with the Entity realm in Dead by Daylight.”

Both teams shared that they love to create these ambiguities to give players agency over the threats they face. They want to make sure they’re not answering the question of identifying what that scary, horrible thing is in the dark and allow players to let their imagination run wild. Richard detailed that, internally, the Behaviour team also does not have a clear answer to this question about what the Entity is, which might be why they also avoid the answer to fans. The same goes for the Remedy team and what exactly the Dark Presence could be.

“To the developers on our team [Remedy] are like, ‘Goddammit, I wish I knew. Just tell us what it actually is so we can figure it out,’” Rowley detailed. “When I’m talking with Sam [Lake], and I’m trying to have these conversations. We don’t actually know. We leave that open. I think Sam has an idea in the back of his head but doesn’t quite want to reveal it. Ultimately, there’s no discovery if we know the answer before we make it. I think a lot of our games are about the discovery of making the game. We try not to have everything answered on paper.”

The fear of the unknown drives against the protagonists as they face off against the major antagonists in Dead by Daylight and Alan Wake 2. It’s a basic human instinct to fear the dark and what could be within it while serving as a potential to discover the unknown, which is perfect for horror storytellers. The similarities between these two games also made it so Alan could have a seamless pivot into Dead by Daylight, but the way he got there is a true mystery, even to the Behaviour team. 

“There’s a concept in DbD where, because it’s a multiverse and the Entity can break through holes through different timelines, that some people, especially artists, can be conduits to other universes, ” Richard said. “Seeing Alan also has the power to conjure his writing into reality made it a chicken and egg problem. It made it very easy to integrate. Is it Alan writing the reality of the Entity? Is it the Entity’s realm poking a hole in the Dark Presence and getting Alan Wake. What exactly is happening is out for theory, and we’ll let the fans decide.”

Rowley got a laugh out of this because that’s what he and the Remedy team frequently do with many of their titles. The underlying fear of what drives humans to cower away from the unknown makes it a great enemy, and both teams have fun playing with it, as providing a truthful answer could easily take away this unsettling feeling and magic the teams have developed with their fans. 

What’s also interesting is how Remedy and Behaviour tackle survival horror. Even though Alan Wake 2 and Dead by Daylight are distinctly different, there’s a relation between how players have to tackle threats and the recent rise to survival horror in the games industry, making it one of the best times to enjoy these titles.

The Resurgence of Survival Horror Games Benefits Everyone

Although the gameplay experiences of Alan Wake 2 and Dead by Daylight are vastly different, they are survival horror games at their core. They have design choices where the players question the reality of a particular situation and make split-second decisions based on minimal information to survive. Rowley and Richard reminisced that for the past few years, the rise in survival horror games has been fantastic for both of their games. For Remedy Entertainment, their knee-jerk intention was to make Alan Wake 2 a survival horror game, but after the definitive success of the Resident Evil 2 Remake, they knew they made the correct decision. Rowley had a lot of positive things to say when asked about the future of horror games.

“I’m personally super excited,” Rowley replied, “I think we’re in a really good spot. When we were originally doing the concept for Alan Wake 2, the Resident Evil 2 Remake had just come out. We [Remedy] talked about really wanting to do a survival horror game. At the time, they weren’t the most possible genre of game that was available. But after Resident Evil 2 Remake came out, everyone loved it, and it did very well commercially, it gave us the confidence that we could do what we wanted creatively, and the market is open to this. Since then, the market has only gotten better and better.”

“We love to see it, and I agree with you,” Richard said, “I think that horror takes more and more space. A lot of people have been saying that horror is niche. I don’t believe it is. I think everyone wants a little bit of horror in different styles, and it’s not what games have been offering.”

The continued success of the Resident Evil franchise is a perfect example of this, giving development studios who want to create a single-player, narrative horror experience the justification they need to move forward with it. Alan Wake 2 might not be the game it is today if Resident Evil 2 Remake had not done as well, alongside the unique experience from Dead by Daylight, hitting the correct note of multiplayer, co-op horror. 

The answer to the success of horror games, though, is a much more complicated one. Alan Wake 2 drove this home by not offering the typical, cheap jump scare from seeing something scary but experiencing that feeling of uncertainty and the rush of not knowing what’s about to happen next. The same goes for Dead by Daylight, where, at the start of every match, the player has no idea what they’re about to face, and they have to drive forward, using the limited tools available to them to charge ahead and achieve victory.

These notable gameplay differences between Alan Wake 2 and Dead by Daylight make them fantastic. They share the same mission, and go about it uniquely, but this also presents distinct challenges to Remedy and Behaviour. At their core, how they address these issues is their way to remove player expectations and provide a memorable experience.

Dead by Daylight & Alan Wake 2 Developers Tackle Player Expectations 

The player experience for Dead by Daylight vastly differs from Alan Wake 2, where matches can last anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, and then you’re jumping back into the next one. If you’re playing Alan Wake 2, you’re there for the larger story, solving the intricate, game-spanning puzzles that can take you until you reach the credits to figure out. Not every question is answered correctly, and there’s still more to figure out.

Alan Wake 2 and Dead by Daylight share this concept of looping, but it’s handled differently. Alan is looping in the Dark Place and uses that to solve puzzles and try to escape. Players in Dead by Daylight are looping in much shorter intervals with their matches, picking and choosing their perks and tools to take with them against the next unknown Killer. In Alan Wake 2, this was tackled differently based on what character the player was using.

“On Saga’s side, the enemies are present, and they’re there with you,” Rowley said, “For Wake, It’s slightly more psychological, and he’s unsure of himself. He’s paranoid about what’s real. We built that into our horror experience. A lot of the emotional response from players on the Wake side is this paranoia of not knowing if something is real or not. That comes about for the fact he’s been there for so long, going through these loops over and over again.”

“On our side, the loop is not affecting our players, but the uncertainty is,” Richard replied, “The fear of the unknown is a core pillar of what DbD is. Every time you load into a match, you don’t know where you are, who you will face, what they’re going to be using, or their strategies. That is fear, or at least stress.”

“I feel that we have it the easy way,” Rowley continued, “We’re doing this one experience, where you play through it once or twice if you want to get the Final Draft, full experience. We’re controlling it a bit more. We can understand what the player have seen and what they’ve done before. We know where they are, and we can set things up. I feel like you guys [Behaviour] have it really hard, with the fact it’s all dynamic. It’s all player-driven. Trying to create those emotional responses from a horror-based game driven by players is a very interesting challenge; I think you guys have nailed it.”

Both Remedy and Behaviour have challenges to tackle to keep their players motivated, as well as challenges in how they handle uncertainty. Even though they’re both horror styles, how they manifest those emotions with their players is enriching to see these two routes.

The success of these games can only benefit the horror gaming genre moving forward, and bringing these two communities together is wonderful. It makes having Alan Wake enter Dead by Daylight’s fog that much more enriching, as he finds himself bringing a distinct set of skills to help battle the cosmic Entity. Getting to sit down with Rowley and Richard was an exciting opportunity, and I’m ecstatic to jump into my next Dead by Daylight match as Alan Wake to become the Champion of Light in the fog.

Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII is full of emotionally expressive, insightful, and admittedly extra characters. Love them or hate them, there is no denying they would fit right in in Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department.

After Taylor Swift’s announcement of her upcoming album during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, we’re officially back in Taylor Season. Set to hit on April 19, just a month after Final Fantasy VII Rebirth hits stores, it’s a cosmic collision. And the theme could not be more fitting, too: The Tortured Poets Department. Since neither TS nor FF are big on celebrity appearances or collaborations, I don’t expect we’ll be seeing any official crossover soon. Still, nothing is stopping us from having our own safe space to discuss which Final Fantasy VII characters would belong in Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department album.

Related: Who Cares How Cait Sith Is Pronounced, He’s The Worst FF7 Character

Barret: Some Kind of Loaded Gun

Barrett is the man with a gun arm and a fiery spirit. I wouldn’t blame you for disregarding him as a battle powerhouse. But you have to admit his strength as a character doesn’t come only from his ranged support. He’s impulsive and has a knack for propelling the story forward, all fueled by his outspoken hatred speeches against Shinra. But beneath the tough exterior lies a man haunted by a tragic past. 

Forget the eco-warrior facade; Barrett’s fighting a personal vendetta against Shinra, the jerks who wrecked his town and livelihood and offed his wife. He is living his reputation era, aflame with desires for revenge.

The way in which Barret pours out the pain, the anger, and the guilt in Final Fantasy VII would fit right in with Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department album. 

Yuffie Kisaragi: Fearless Era

If it weren’t for Taylor Swift’s redemption arc, we wouldn’t have her crowned 2023’s Person of the Year. Every day, Yuffie Kisaragi gets called annoying by some rude fanboy. If they could, they’d go up a stage in the Golden Saucer, interrupt her mid-cutscenes, and say, “Yo Yuffie, I’m really happy for you. I’ma let you finish, but Sephiroth just had one of the best cutscenes of all time.”

But should you give Yuffie a chance, you’ll watch her character unfold into a multi-layered tale of optimism, resourcefulness, and ninja shenanigans. Yuffie Kisaragi dances through the narrative with a mix of mischief and heroism, proving that beneath her thieving exterior lies a poetic tale waiting to be explored. There has never been a character more deserving of a spot in Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department.

Roche: “All’s fair in love and poetry.”

Roche is a motorcycle maverick in Final Fantasy VII Remake, but you likely don’t remember him as a speed demon. Instead, you probably remember how he constantly professed his love for Cloud and acted like their duel was a date in Olive Garden. 

His overzealous and flamboyant entrances are nothing short of dramatic. Each line seems meticulously crafted to sound like it came out of a play. Roche isn’t just a one-trick pony with a killer bike; he’s a two-wheeled poet at heart. 

RED XIII: A Cat Poet 

Red XIII is our four-legged philosopher, the unsung poet of the party in Final Fantasy VII. I know what you’re thinking, but let me assure you they’re not just here because of Taylor Swift’s obsession with felines.

Amidst the chaos of technocratic greed and Avalanche’s rebellion, Red XIII takes a chill pill and views the world with a more objective, humane lens. He’s the yin to Shinra’s yang, representing a spiritual Native American vibe, fighting against the invasive force of technology and modernity. 

In Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department, there’s definitely a seat all saved up for Red XIII, the poetic beast with a philosophical feast.

Jessie Raspberry: Taking Romeo and Juliet to the Next Level

Jessie is a bomb-maker, an actress, and a go-getter in Final Fantasy VII. But mostly, she’s a hopeless romantic. From the first minute we meet her, she latches onto Cloud and tries to somehow make him fit into her idea of theatrical love. 

Just like Taylor Swift, she is the Mastermind behind most operations against Shinra, and in this love play, she has created for her and Cloud. I just know she would be part of Taylor’s Squad and most definitely earn her spot in the The Tortured Poets Department.

Vincent Valentine: A Daydream Dressed Like a Nightmare

Is there any character as unnecessarily edgy and overdramatic as Vincent Valentine? Crippled by guilt and torment, Vincent joins the party not as a chatterbox but as a silent observer. He speaks when it matters, making his contributions as measured as a haiku in a world of verbose soliloquies.

His brooding and mellow energy screams Evermore, but he’d make all the songs 10-minute versions for absolutely no reason. I’m sure Taylor Swift would love to welcome this walking anime trope into The Tortured Poets Department.

Culinary feats are just as important as powerful blows when it comes to Dungeons & Dragons. A meal is the perfect way to bring a party together or to fortify for an upcoming battle. Because of this, every fan needs to pick up a copy of the D&D cookbook Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse.

As a long-time Dungeons & Dragons fan and kitchen wizard, the opportunity to dive into Flavors of the Multiverse was a true treat. While not a cookbook for beginners, with complex recipes and interesting ingredients, it has been a joy to try out iconic dishes and read the stories before sections as I wait for the timer to go off.

To learn more about the process of putting the book together, Gamepur has had the opportunity to sit down with the brilliant authors behind the madness of Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse. Kyle Newman, Jon Peterson, and Michael Witwer answer our question on inspiration, flavor palettes, and the game of culinary proficiency.

Related: Dungeons & Dragons Lore & Legends Review: 5th Edition History in Full Color

Delicious Debauchery With Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse Authors

There are so many realms and cultures in D&D, how did you decide which places to visit on your culinary adventure?

Good question! It was a combination of using D&D dishes we had identified from previous research for the first Heroes’ Feast but weren’t able to use due to space and balance considerations along with mining locations/campaign worlds that were getting a lot of attention in current D&D adventures and campaign guides. For example, if you happened to pick up the Spelljammer boxed set or Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen last year, we thought it would be cool if we had food that could accompany those gaming experiences (e.g., Rock of Bral, Solamnia, etc.). Similarly, we included dishes from the latest releases like Planescape (Sigil), which we knew would be released around the same time our book came out.

Michael Witwer

Pretty early in the book’s process, we decided we were going to follow a band of adventurers on a quest through the multiverse. That meant we could go literally anywhere, and as the quest’s story took shape, we thought about which locations would yield the best variety of food that would link deeply with D&D lore. Some of our initial ideas were maybe too obscure, but we eventually settled on a set of familiar venues that would click with players today.

Jon Peterson

We wanted to ensure that the book was a diverse representation of locales and flavors. Planes such as the Feywild and the Shadowfell really activate those ideas. Sigil also felt like a melting pot of influences and ingredients and quickly became a “must visit” for our heroes as soon as we knew it was in play in 5th edition. 

Kyle Newman

There are dozens of amazing recipes included in Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse. What was your favorite recipe added to the cookbook and why?

So much good stuff! I think my favorite so far is the Bacon Wrapped Smoked Mussels (from Sigil but also available at the Cutlass in Luskan) and I’m also really fond of the elven flatbread–it’s a gorgeous and delicious centerpiece!

Michael Witwer

We wanted to ensure that the book was a diverse representation of locales and flavors. Planes such as the Feywild and the Shadowfell really activate those ideas. Sigil also felt like a melting pot of influences and ingredients and quickly became a “must visit” for our heroes as soon as we knew it was in play in 5th edition. 

Kyle Newman

What processes are required to make a cookbook filled with fantasy food? Do you hit the kitchens as well as the keyboard? 

There’s quite a bit to the process and it’s very much a deep collaboration between the author team, the chef, the editors, the art and creative directors, the photographer, the production designer, the food stylist and many others. On a high level, we scour 50 years of D&D content in search of every notable dish, ingredient and recipe throughout the multiverse; curate and modify each for feasibility and flavor, in coordination with the editors and master chef Adam Reid (from America’s Test Kitchen); and present it in a way with meaningful lore, photography/visuals, and recipes that hopefully resonate with D&D fans.

Michael Witwer

Research is the first and most important step for us. We cast a wide net to collect as many concepts as possible from the expansive lexicon of D&D media including setting guides, adventures, computer games and novels. We search for the kernel of an idea, then build it out having a clear understanding of the world, the topography and the culture we are showcasing. We strive to fully grasp the peoples of each world and identify what was available to them in terms of produce or livestock to ensure authenticity. The key is to identify the palatable core of a dish and then inject it with a very D&D idea or flavor. That’s when the magic happens and something new is created. Adam Reid then steps in to help us flesh the recipe out accordingly. 

Kyle Newman

A cookbook is a useful item, but you were able to turn it into an adventure. Why did you decide to add a story in between the sections?

As above, it was a combination of having a lot of great food research on dishes from disparate parts of the D&D multiverse as well as knowing what was releasing on D&D’s gaming schedule. We definitely wanted to make sure we provided food for adventures/campaigns people were playing today, so it seemed the best way to connect all of this was grab some characters (from the cover of the first Heroes’ Feast, in fact) and have them go on a culinary focused quest across the D&D multiverse. Ultimately, the cookbook features the dishes they encounter in these various locales.

Michael Witwer

Structuring a cookbook around a hijinx-filled D&D adventure highlights the culinary dimension of D&D, which has been in the game from the start. Food-minded players have always been able to seek out the best eats for their adventurers, who should not have to live on iron rations alone. Not all D&D characters have to be gourmands, but everybody has to eat — even players! 

Jon Peterson

Having a narrative connect the chapters together was a truly fresh concept for a cookbook. We want our cookbooks to be more than just a collection of recipes so when we set out to make this sequel we challenged ourselves to craft something different than the first book… and better. A D&D cookbook should be fun and inspire deeper investigation into the eclectic worlds and peoples, almost like a sourcebook!

Kyle Newman

What did you learn about D&D that surprised you while making this cookbook? Did it give you new introspection on any of the locations you included? 

Yes, we always learn a ton! If you don’t play a certain campaign, you may have little cause to ever look at the material from other settings, but with something like this (alongside our Lore & Legends book), you look at everything. For example, the Rock of Bral has a lake–who knew!? Many of us experience these locales as part of playing the game, but you learn so many new things about them when you look at them through a certain lens, in this case food. Sometimes it’s just seeing what the DM sees behind the scenes regarding say a menu of a certain tavern. However, it can get a lot deeper when you start getting into the food and dining preferences of various D&D cultures and locales–all super interesting!

Michael Witwer

Some people say “write what you know,” but I disagree — I firmly believe in the notion “write what you want to know.” I want to discover as I work. Go somewhere as I write. So I learned something from every single chapter and headnote. D&D is so rich in detail and history that you just keep going down Harengon hole after Harengon hole. 

Kyle Newman

What is your favorite D&D adventure? How did it influence the creation of the cookbook?

Hmmm. I think I have lots of favorites! The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh was the first I ever played (run by my brother Sam) and that one has a special place for me (re-released for the fifth edition in Ghosts of Saltmarsh), but I don’t think we used anything from it this time. I also love the original Ravenloft and its much expanded fifth edition counterpart (and masterpiece) Curse of Strahd–we have a whole section on Ravenloft in this book, so we drew lots of inspiration from those modules!

Michael Witwer

I’ve always been partial to the Planescape setting, and for an adventure set in the multiverse, Sigil is a perfect place for a band of adventurers to visit. It’s a great place to offer a sampler of dishes from all over the planes.

Jon Peterson

Wild Beyond the Witchlight was a fun romp into the Feywild and I loved the way that realm enhances the senses, especially the flavors on offer. I had a blast coming up with dishes for our final chapter. As a final note — Fans of Heroes’ Feast will definitely want to check out Heroes’ Feast — the official cooking show based on our books — which debuted this month on Amazon Freevee and Plex. 20 episodes of Heroes’ Feast cooking and hijinks!

Kyle Newman

Dungeons & Dragons fans can purchase Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse for $35 on the Penguin Random House website, and stores including Barnes & Noble.

A copy of Heroes’ Feast Flavors of the Multiverse was provided to Gamepur for the purpose of this interview.

Life’s joys are sweeter shared, and the same goes for gaming. However, not all co-op gaming experiences are created equal.

Navigating the sea of co-op games can be tricky when finding the perfect match to play with your significant other. That’s why I’ve curated a list of the best games to play with your girlfriend. Or partner. I don’t know your life.

Related: Gamepur’s Best Games of 2023

20. Raft

• Developed by: Redbeet Interactive
• Platforms: PC
• Multiplayer: Online Co-Op

To test whether your girlfriend is survival-ready or if you’ll be shouldering all the apocalypse weight, try Raft. 

This survival game throws you into the shoes of a castaway, armed with nothing more than a small lifeboat and a plastic hook, challenging you to make it in the vast ocean.

19. Portal 2

• Developed by: Valve
• Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local, Online and LAN Co-Op

Cracking puzzles solo feels dull once you’ve experienced the thrill of tackling Portal 2 puzzles together with your girlfriend.

Portal 2 is a highly cooperative game and the perfect introduction for someone who has never played games before.

18. Stardew Valley

• Developed by: ConcernedApe
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile, and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Stardew Valley excels in every aspect, but its true magic shines when experienced in co-op mode.

Nothing beats the joy of waking up and doing some fishing, farming, or mining with the company of your significant other.

17. Fortnite

• Developed by: Epic Games
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile, and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Fortnite is a free online shooter game, a Minecraft-like LEGO survival game, a mid racing game, and a washed-down version of Rock Band. If you don’t find at least one of those games appealing enough to play with your girlfriend, then I don’t know what to tell you. 

16. Minecraft

• Developed by: Mojang Studios
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile, and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Minecraft needs no introduction, but you probably hadn’t thought playing this game with your girlfriend would be a good idea. Whether you’re looking for a chill, creative experience in sandbox mode or a long-term survival playthrough, Minecraft has got you covered.

15. Left 4 Dead 2

• Developed by: Valve
• Platforms: PC, Xbox
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Left 4 Dead 2 is a classic. There is a reason this 2009 game has as many concurrent players as it does nearly 15 games after its release.

If you like zombies but not spooky games, then Left 4 Dead 2 is the game to play with your girlfriend.

14. Human Fall Flat

• Developed by: No Brakes Games
• Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and Mobile
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Human: Fall Flat is more fun to watch than to play. There, I said it. But that’s also why it’s extremely fun to play with your girlfriend. Who else is going to laugh at how terrible you are at this game?

13. Payday 2

• Developed by: Overkill Software
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Money Heist made me romanticize the whole heist thing. And while I’ll never look as good as those guys did in a red jumpsuit, that won’t stop me from trying to complete every heist in Payday 2.  

Smoothly executing a heist while avoiding alarms through perfect coordination with your criminal crew makes for a fantastic gaming experience.

12. The Quarry

• Developed by: Supermassive 
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox and PC
• Multiplayer: Online and Local Co-Op

Supermassive is committed to making Final Destination-like games until the formula is perfected. While The Quarry is not their overall best, it’s their best co-op offer.

If you don’t mind a bit of slasher spookiness, then The Quarry is a great game to play with your girlfriend.

11. Borderlands

• Developed by: Gearbox
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

Borderlands 2 is the best in the series, but any Borderlands entry you can get your hands on will do.

Borderlands is Mad Max, the shooting game, but with less drama and more wacky lines. While you can play and enjoy this game solo, there is nothing quite like looting and shooting all over Pandora with your girlfriend.

10. Goat Simulator 3

• Developed by: Coffee Stain North
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Mobile
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

I was actually surprised to find out that Goat Simulator 3 is, in fact, a sequel. That really should tell you the kind of game you’re in for, but in case it doesn’t, brace for a gaming spree where you’ll be hoof-stomping an old lady’s face while she fires rockets at you and other equally outrageous antics.

9. PowerWash Simulator

• Developed by: FuturLab
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox and PC
• Multiplayer: Online Co-Op

I’m totally guilty of ignoring IRL house chores but pouring copious amounts of time into power-washing mud from playgrounds and dust from Italian palazzos. Though this state of mind is less than desirable, I’m telling you, PowerWash Simulator is one of the best games you and your girlfriend can play.

8. Cuphead

• Developed by: Studio MDHR
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local Co-Op (and Online through Steam’s remote play feature)

Relationships are all about sharing, and there’s quite nothing like sharing the frustration of not being able to beat Cuphead bosses with each other. The lasting scars inflicted by these bosses are unparalleled, but hey, at least there’s someone else who gets your agony now, right?

7. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

• Developed by: Steel Crate Games
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch and Mobile
• Multiplayer: Local Co-Op (and Online as long as you use a third-party voice chat app)

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes is a communication exercise for couples, and that’s exactly why it’s a game you and your girlfriend should play.

In this game, one of you’ll hold the instructions to safely disassemble a bomb while the other is in charge of listening and executing the instructions just so you don’t blow up to pieces.

6. Lethal Company

• Developed by: Zeekerss
• Platforms: PC and Mobile
• Multiplayer: Online Co-Op

Rumor has it that mixing business with pleasure is a no-no, but what’s ethics when you work for the largest and deadliest corporation in the world? 

In Lethal Company, you’ll explore vibrant or eerie moons stripped of resources. It’s an easy-to-play and affordable game that promises unforgettable moments. Who knows, you might find out your girlfriend is, in fact, the most lethal company after a few matches.

5. Moving Out 2

• Developed by: SMG Studio and DevM Games
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and PC
• Multiplayer: Local and Online Co-Op

For a game that’s all about getting furniture on a moving truck before the timer runs out, there was actually a lot of slapping in my Moving Out 2 playthrough.

Moving Out 2 offers yet another chaotic experience you can voluntarily put your couple through. It’s wildly fun, and each scenario offers something new and unexpected. If you’re down for a quick gaming session, Moving Out 2 is the game you should play with your girlfriend.

4. Phasmophobia

• Developed by: Kinetic Games
• Platforms: PC and Xbox
• Multiplayer: Online Co-Op

Phasmophobia beckons for a lights-out, girlfriend-included gaming session. 

There is nothing quite like sharing triumphs, mishaps, screams, and surprises in this multiplayer paranormal encounter. It’s the kind of horror experience that keeps you glued, chaining one game after another.

3. Overcooked 2

• Developed by: Team17
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Online and Local Co-Op

If you need a new reason to argue with your partner, why not pick up Overcooked or Overcooked 2 for a fun cooking and yelling session? 

Overcooked is a chaotic co-op game in which you run restaurants on a floating pier, a spooky graveyard, and a literal truck on the road. It’s a game that demands you and your partner to stay on top of your game as you chop, roast, plate, and deliver the client’s orders timely.

2. Baldur’s Gate 3

• Developed by: Larian Studios
• Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, and PC
• Multiplayer: Local Co-Op and Online Co-Op

When you’re not arguing over meals, you could be fighting about who gets to romance Shadowheart. 

Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of the best adventure games to play with your girlfriend. You both get to create your own characters and dive into a split-screen adventure to uncover all the secrets Faerun has to offer. If you ever make it past Act 1, that is.

1. It Takes Two

• Developed by: Take-Two
• Platforms: PlayStation, PC, Xbox and Nintendo Switch
• Multiplayer: Local Co-Op

I firmly believe most co-op games are designed with the intent of breaking up couples, but not It Takes Two. This is the game to play with your girlfriend if you want to solidify your relationship.

It Takes Two hams up one entertaining scenario after the other. Just when you’ve grasped your current tool or skill set and finally moved past the fun of flattening your partner with your hammer, it takes two drops of something new to keep you engaged.

Did you ever look at your Baldur’s Gate 3 companions and think: “Yes, but more conventionally attractive”? Oh, the thought had never occurred? Well, you can either fight them or join them.

Baldur’s Gate 3 modding community is a wonderland of combat, UI, and a lot of cosmetic mods. To be absolutely fair, the companion and TAV appearance customization options, despite being diverse, do get old after the third or fourth playthrough. The braids and buns just don’t do it for me anymore, sorry. That’s why the modding community, specially curated in this list to bring you the crème de la crème, has the best character and companion customization mods for BG3 for you.

Yassified Astarion: Hot as Bloody Hell

• Author: Bishounen159
• Download link: NexusMods

Look, it’s easy to judge Bishounen159 for yassifying Astarion like that, but they do have a point: why does a high-elf turned vampire spawn at the age of 39 look aged when their average life expectancy is around 700-750 years? While Larian surely does have a lore-accurate and respectable answer, I don’t quite think the 25000 players who downloaded this mod really care.

Gortash, but Unkillable: Gortash Facelift

• Author: pooteeweet
• Download link: NexusMods

Gortash is the easiest to kill of all three netherstone holders in Baldur’s Gate 3, but I’m sure the battle would have been at least twice as hard if he looked as hot as he does, thanks to Gortash Facelift. My palms would get sweaty, I’d start grinning whenever he called me a “damn fool,” and quite frankly, the fight would never be over. In any case, pooteeweet’s mod lets you choose among three possible facelifts for Gortash, all of which look great.

I Prefer the Real Karlach: Datamined Karlach

• Author: labotor
• Download link: NexusMods

Because I didn’t want my PC to have a meltdown, I didn’t play BG3‘s early access version. But it’s clear that the characters underwent some form of makeover. At some point, labotor’s version of Karlach is what she was supposed to look like, and I kind of dig it. In some alternative universe, she made it into the final version, in which Avernus turned her into a less forgiving and light-hearted character. I’m not sure if we’re ready for it.

Jaheira, But Slightly Younger

• Author: Daraki
• Download link: NexusMods

Though she doesn’t fit into Baldur’s Gate 3 story perfectly, I think Jaheira’s still fun to be around. It’s nice to see the original Baldur’s Gate characters all tough and grown up. However, some of your TAVs may be too young for her. If you still consider the age gap controversial in a world doomed by sexy squids, then Younger Jaheira might be the BG3 cosmetic mod for you.

Related: Baldur’s Gate 3 Jaheira’s Hideout: Pin Slot Puzzle & How to Enter in BG3

Lae’zel with Softer Features: Another Face for Lae’zel

• Author: bk0n9
• Download link: NexusMods

I love Lae’zel, but my god, she is scary. Whenever I had a chat with her, I would pray not to earn her disapproval just by breathing too loudly or something. bk0n9’s mod replaces Lae’zel’s stern features with a softer look that somehow prevents her from looking like she is constantly judging you.

Botox Drow Mommy: Another Face for Minthara

• Author: XxJeptxX
• Download link: NexusMods

Minthara is great, really; I just wish her brow wasn’t furrowed to make her look either angry or disgusted with my actions 90% of the time. Look, I’m sorry I didn’t butcher an entire village of Tieflings. Can we please move on?

XxJeptxX’s mod plumps Minthara’s lips and sharpens her cheekbones, but what I really love is that even her resting face looks more inviting. Life is better with a nice Minthara.

Less Abs, Please!: No Abs for Companions

• Author: slimesona
• Download link: NexusMods

I get it; some of these guys are buff warlocks and bear-shifting druids, but what about my lanky wizard Gale and nimble rogue Astarion? With slimesona’s Baldur’s Gate 3 mod, you can get a more realistic look at these two guys.

Shadowheart Minus The Seasoning: Another Face for Shadowheart

• Author: vemperen
• Download link: NexusMods

If you’ve ever wanted Shadowheart to look like Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Garner had a kid, then do I have the mod for you. vemperen has uploaded a Baldur’s Gate 3 cosmetic mod that completely revamps Shadowheart’s face, and apparently, over 70000 of you are already having a blast with this celebrity kid.

The Indigo Disk DLC has highlighted the biggest problem with Pokemon Scarlet & Violet due to one option that is no longer in the series.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet have been blasted for their terrible performance issues and low-quality visuals since launch. Fans had hoped that the developers would fix these problems via patches, but unfortunately, the few updates released haven’t made a noticeable impact on performance. Any remaining hope for graphical fixes was dashed when The Indigo Disk DLC launched and brought no visual improvements.

Related: Surprise Epilogue for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero Releases Early 2024

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Won’t Let You Skip Battle Animations

One of the most frustrating things about The Pokemon Company is its repeated stripping of QoL features without explanation. The most frustrating removal in Gen 9 is the ability to skip battle animations. This has been in the Pokemon franchise since the days of Pokemon Red & Blue, but it was removed in Gen 9.

Battle Animations are exactly what they sound like. When a Pokemon uses a move in battle, they will move their bodies or shoot projectiles to visualize that move. Disabling Battle Animations makes combat much faster, skipping over the slight arm wiggle of Scratch or the massive energy laser of Solar Beam.

The most likely reason battle animation skipping was cut is because of Pokemon Scarlet & Violet’s open world with multiplayer capabilities and the Raid battles. It might have been necessary to ensure everyone used the same settings, especially with so many game elements being timed.

Regardless of the reasons, removing the ability to disable battle animations in Gen 9 was one of the worst changes made to the series. This means that all players must sit through the attack animations and any other effects during battle.

The Indigo Disk’s Battles Exacerbate The Issues With Mandatory Battle Animations

The lack of battle animation skipping in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet is bad enough, but The Indigo Disk DLC makes it much, much worse. The reason for this is the high-level battles that happen throughout the expansion, which would be a welcome addition if not for the fact that you have to sit through so many annoying cutscenes.

See, many of the harder battles in The Indigo Disk DLC are Doubles matches, where each player uses two Pokemon. In these fights, enemy trainers often use terrain abilities (such as spawning different kinds of weather) and will spam status effect moves.

Not only do you have to sit through four attack animations each turn, but you also have to wait while every additional aspect of the battle resolves, such as weather or a status effect. Combined, these cause battles to crawl compared to the ones in the base game, resulting in slow, tedious affairs, leaving you looking at the clock while another round of confusion and sleep effects play out.

Related: How to Change Your Trainer Icon in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

It’s not as if Pokemon Scarlet & Violet and its DLC lack content, so it’s not as if removing the battle animations was implemented to pad the runtime. Instead, it’s just another bad decision on the part of the developers, and those hoping for the DLC to fix the problem were left facing an even worse issue, as what should be the most epic battles in the game turn into boring slogs.

It’s easy to lose track of what the upcoming game release trailers of 2024 are. After all, some were announced more than three years ago.

Time has taught us that judging a game’s quality based on its trailer is never good. Some might overhype the graphics or scope of the game, like when Sean Murray said Hello Games’ upcoming entry would be bigger than Earth itself. Still, watching a healthy number of trailers to get a general idea of the games to come can’t hurt. In this article, I’ve outlined the best 15 trailers of the games released in 2024.

15. Foamstars

Foamstars is a 4v4 online party shooter set to release in 2024 for PlayStation. The trailer for Foamstars doesn’t do much besides hype you up for the game’s cute characters and the potential foamy chaos that is to ensue. But with a game with a premise as simple as this one, it doesn’t need to. I can’t wait to see where Square Enix takes this game. Hopefully, it has nothing to do with aggressive AI.

14. Little Nightmares 3

Little Nightmares 3 promises to deliver one more dystopian adventure in a “brand-new world of delusions” this 2024 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

Little Nightmares’ style is instantly recognizable in this trailer. It’s a bit like the Coraline version of games, except it’s much creepier. And that really is saying a lot. Here’s hoping the chance to dive into its creepy landscapes with a friend in co-op makes the experience less traumatizing.

13. Blade Runner 2033: Labyrinth

Leave it to Annapurna Interactive to make a drop-dead gorgeous cinematic trailer that really tells us nothing about the game. All we know so far is that this game might be released in 2024 on “PC and consoles.” Everything else remains a mystery.

12. Pacific Drive

Pacific Drive is a first-person survival game in which you are one with your car, coming to PC and PlayStation in 2024.

As if born from the desperate need to mesh Lost Highway and Titane into one lonely and surreal experience, Pacific Drive’s trailer shows both the cinematic world surrounding this eerie experience and the type of gameplay you can expect when you finally get your hands on it.

11. Persona 3 Reload

Persona 3 Reload is a remake of the original JRPG coming to PlayStation, Xbox, and PC on February 2, 2024.

This trailer shows me everything I want from a classic persona game: ridiculous minigames, day-to-day interactions, companions praising me for doing the bare minimum, and a silent yet subtly snarky protagonist. Oh, it’s a Persona game, alright.

10. Crimson Desert

Crimson Desert is an RPG coming to PlayStation, Xbox, and PC in “late 2024.”

The trailer doesn’t show anything groundbreaking, but it does let you know this is a well-rounded, solid RPG that ticks everything you have come to expect from these experiences: combat, mounts, lush forests, and chaotic taverns.

9. Avowed

Avowed is an RPG from Obsidian Entertainment coming to PlayStation, PC, and Xbox in 2024.

After 3 years of waiting, Avowed fans finally got a new trailer to chew on last 2023. This trailer doesn’t waste any time in setting your expectations for the game that is to come: lots of character diversity and a huge focus on NPC interactions. I can’t wait to get lost in this fantasy Outer Wilds.

8. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is an RPG coming to PlayStation, Xbox, and PC on March 22, 2024.

Related: What Dragon’s Dogma 2’s Pawn AI Can Borrow from Final Fantasy XII

This game’s trailer is dramatic and engaging from the get-go. It sets the scene right away and doesn’t waste more than a minute before showing gameplay. Capcom’s clearly listened up from the first go-around, shaping up a sequel that dives deeper into storytelling

7. Hades 2

Hades 2 is a sequel to the roguelike dungeon crawler with sexy Greek gods, but this time more dark sorcery. We’ll get an early access version in 2024 for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.

It’s clear Supergiant Games knew what they were doing with this reveal trailer back in 2022. Regardless of whether you enjoyed the original Hades or only heard nice things about it, this trailer’s poignant art style and humor are sure to charm you into giving this sequel a try.

6. Star Wars Outlaws

Star Wars Outlaws is an action-adventure game coming out in 2024 for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

The world surrounding the Star Wars universe has always fascinated me. Star Wars Outlaws looks to be the perfect chance to enjoy a non-Jedi-based story with an original character. The trailer’s all flash, no gameplay peek, but if the game’s as stunning as this, count me in.

5. Alone in the Dark

Alone in the Dark is a survival horror video game coming out on March 20, 2024, for PlayStation, PC, and Xbox.

Look, I can’t tell you if Alone in the Dark is going to be any good. But they got both Jodie Comer and David Harbor in it, so I’ll take my chances. The trailer sets the scene for a pretty unsettling mystery-solving adventure.

4. Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is Boygenius, the gaming experience, coming to PlayStation, PC, and Xbox in late 2024.

Don’t Nod‘s trailer for their upcoming heart-wrenching sapphic game brought all the girls and gays to the yard. I’m stoked to see the team behind Life is Strange working on something with a new name and a pretty familiar feeling.

3. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

In case you’ve been living under a rock, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is an RPG coming to PlayStation 4 on February 29, 2024.

Any trailer for FFVII Rebirth is fantastic, but none is more revealing than the Theme Song reveal trailer. It’s got Cid, Vincent, Marlene, and the Gold Saucer all in one place. It just slams you with one wave of excitement after the next.

2. Baby Steps

Baby Steps is a physics-based adventure game that asks you to hike serene mountains as a thirty-odd manchild, coming to PlayStation and PC in 2024.

This trailer amps every possible aspect to the max to bring you an absolutely delightful yet simple experience in less than 2 minutes. The music, visuals, and whimsical humor all come together to make sure you’re on board with this game’s premise, whether you like it or not.

1. Senua’s Saga Hellblade 2

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is a jaw-dropper action game coming to Xbox and PC in 2024.

This game was originally announced in 2019, and trailers have not stopped coming ever since. With visuals and audio that’s as gorgeous as it’s haunting, I really can’t wait to get my hands on this game. I’m also booking a few therapy sessions to avoid going insane with Senua’s voices.

What’s a good video game without an emboldened protagonist, a despicable villain, or a comedic sidekick? Characters are ways for players to feel connected to the story, and a great character can hook gamers and get them invested in the narrative.

Some players see characters in video games as a reflection of themselves or their traits. A gamer identifying with a hero or villain may make the experience all the more enjoyable. And some are so entertaining that it would be a crime not to include them on our list of the best video game characters of 2023.

Link – The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Submitted by Laura Gray, Managing Editor

Is it bad if I say Gale again? Okay, if I step away from BG3, I’d pick Link in Tears of the Kingdom. I am always amazed at how deeply I relate to Link as a character, but I also think there is something truly magical in creating a character that so many can understand and see themselves in, and all without dialogue. It gives Zelda a type of magic that only it can capture. While I haven’t been a Zelda fan my whole life, I appreciate the effort, time, and energy that went into turning Link into who they are, and I’ve loved seeing the community react to the next chapter of the story.

Mitch Benjamin – Starfield

Submitted by Zackerie Fairfax, Associate Editor

Starfield’s Mitch Benjamin drove me to the brink of insanity, filled me with hatred, and annoyed me to the point of actually liking him. He is the early 2000s depiction of a nerd personified in a video game, a space where we nerds should feel safe. And we become his errand boy.

So, why is he my favorite video game character of the year if he’s such a nuisance? Well, he’s quirky in the best way. There’s a sort of camaraderie in his social awkwardness. We feel like one and the same. He can’t help that he’s not been able to leave his home world, and you are the hero who can connect a lowly Martian with the one thing he is so passionate about.

Saga Anderson – Alan Wake 2

Submitted by Zack Palm, Senior Staff Writer

My most standout character in 2023 was Saga Anderson from Alan Wake 2. She was one of the two main protagonists in the game and was structured as an FBI agent about to enter the mind-boggling world of Alan Wake. Even though she was an FBI agent, she was extremely open to the supernatural and took every opportunity to keep her mind open, making her a refreshing character about the star in a horror story. She had multiple revelations during the time she spent with Alan and while exploring the Dark Place, and she was a standout character to Alan.

Seyka – Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores

Submitted by Jamie Moorcraft-Sharp, Staff Writer

Horizon Forbidden West’s DLC is a breathtaking experience made all the better by the only character who can steal the spotlight from Aloy, Seyka. She’s strong, setting herself apart from every other NPC in the franchise as Aloy’s equal from the word go, but she also somehow manages to tame the protagonist through her ability to be fearlessly herself. I adore each moment she and Aloy spend together and want to see more from her in Horizon 3, hopefully saving Aloy from an even more absurd boss fight than the DLC gave us.

Astarion – Baldur’s Gate 3

Submitted by Cande Maldonado, Contributing Writer

Astarion is a conventionally attractive, bad boy, high-elf vampire with questionable morals, and I can canonically fix him. That right there checks off every box on my ‘dream character’ list. But add Neil Newbon’s top-tier voice acting into the mix, and you’ve basically set my list on fire. Astarion’s bond with the tadpole gives his story a unique twist, setting him apart from the other characters by offering a shot at true freedom. Whether you choose to ascend Astarion or let him walk the path of a good guy, every moment spent with him is an absolute treat.

Merrin – Star Wars: Jedi Survivor

Submitted by Alec Mullins, Contributing Writer

I liked Merrin in Fallen Order. I love her in Jedi Survivor. She’s fiery, funny, and more than a match for Cal’s hardheaded nature. Her new look is a bit jarring, but it reflects the experience she’s gained since we last caught up with her. Cere Junda praises her tenacity. Stormtroopers unknowingly whisper about her when they fret over Jedha’s ‘desert ghost.’ She’s so much more than a one-dimensional love interest, and I can genuinely say I’m ready for a Merrin-centric spin-off after Respawn wraps up the current story.

With a year as jam-packed with games as 2023, it was far too easy for some games to fly under the radar. Heck! Even some AAA smash hits had to take the back burner as there wasn’t enough time to enjoy every masterpiece from the last year.

That said, some games were just too good to slip through the cracks. While in the thick of what could possibly be the best year for gaming, our writers were able to uncover the best hidden gems in video games in 2023.

Fae Farm – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Laura Gray, Managing Editor

Fae Farm is definitely my hidden gem of 2023. I am blown away by how beautiful the game is, how much care has gone into its development, and how fun it is to play. I hope it gets oodles of DLC because I want to spend hours in the world discovering new things. Fae Farm is my cozy game of the year, for sure. If you haven’t played it, you should because it is the oxytocin boost everyone needs with how stressful things have been in recent years.

Born of Bread – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Zackerie Fairfax, Associate Editor

I melted into a puddle when Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake was announced. But with an ambiguous 2024 release window, I tempered my expectations as it likely wouldn’t be released until the middle of next year. But I wouldn’t have to wait long for an equally enjoyable experience.

Enter Born of Bread! This traditional RPG perfectly emulates the classic feel of turn-based combat in Mario RPGs. The characters are hilarious, the world is vibrant, and the soundtrack is so audibly delicious. If you want a game to hold you over until Paper Mario, pick up Born of Bread!

Backpack Hero – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Zack Palm, Senior Staff Writer

A game that came out of nowhere for me in 2023 was Backpack Hero. It’s a game I picked up a few weeks ago, and I haven’t stopped playing it whenever I have free time. It’s a game that’s actively turned inventory management into a fun, interesting mechanic, and the roguelike structure keeps every encounter exciting. What’s even more fun is how the five different characters work, and they each play like they’re from an entirely different game, turning the several mechanics up on their heads. It’s incredible, and I can’t wait to finally reach the end.

Dance of Cards – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Jamie Moorcraft-Sharp, Staff Writer

I had the absolute pleasure of playing Dance of Cards this year and was blown away by its polish, the rich depth of its gameplay, and the ballsy move it pulls in its finale. The game sees players thrown into a poker-themed battle royale at sea with a murder mystery story playing out around them. Every night, players must choose who to team up with based on their interactions with the passengers to help them win that day’s poker game and keep on living. It’s fairly short but has a lot of replayability in the personal stories there are to uncover and the way it brings the ultimate risk into the final boss fight, where players have their save file deleted and are forced to restart if they don’t win their last poker battle.

The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Cande Maldonado, Contributing Writer

Any game that includes witches as part of their narrative can take my money, no questions asked. There is something weirdly fascinating about tarot card designs to me, and The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood is as close as I’ll get to designing my own deck. But this game is far from being a tarot card designer simulator. Instead, it’s a conversational adventure that’s not just complicated but brilliantly executed. The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood overflows with original ideas seamlessly blended into its design. It’s a masterpiece in plot, presentation, and themes, setting a new standard for interactive dramas.

Jusant – 2023 Hidden Gems

Submitted by Alec Mullins, Contributing Writer

I’m tired of Don’t Nod making me cry. Jusant isn’t an ‘always sick to your stomach’ kind of climbing game like Only Up! or Getting Over It, but it still plucks at the heartstrings. The world around you is crumbling. You see so many elements of the dying environment during your careful trek up an abandoned tower. The gameplay is simplistic, the epistolary storytelling has tremendous depth, and it’s the only game I instantly restarted after the credits rolled this year. I can’t recommend it enough.