As the annual Game Awards ceremony kicks off, gamers worldwide are eagerly awaiting the announcement of 2023’s Game of the Year (GOTY). With a stellar lineup of titles vying for the coveted trophy, including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Baldur’s Gate 3, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Resident Evil 4 Remake, this year’s competition is fierce. However, while the Game Awards will ultimately crown one winner, TIME Magazine has already revealed its pick for GOTY, and it’s likely to surprise many.
The 2023 GOTY Showdown: What TIME Magazine Thinks
Every year, gamers and critics alike debate which game deserves the title of Game of the Year, and 2023 is no different. The upcoming Game Awards are poised to deliver some intense drama, especially following last year’s epic showdown between Elden Ring and God of War: Ragnarök. But while the official awards ceremony still has the spotlight, TIME Magazine has already made its decision, and it’s one that might raise some eyebrows.
In a twist that sets it apart from other top-tier publications, TIME has crowned Alan Wake II as its Game of the Year. This choice stands out for a couple of reasons. First, while Alan Wake II is a highly praised title, it doesn’t have the same mainstream buzz or universal acclaim as some of the other nominees for GOTY, such as Zelda or Baldur’s Gate 3. And yet, TIME’s editorial team has placed this psychological thriller at the pinnacle of 2023’s gaming landscape.
TIME’s Top 10 Games of 2023: A Few Surprises
TIME’s decision to choose Alan Wake II as its top game may be bold, but the magazine’s full list of the top 10 games of the year is equally intriguing. While the top five slots are dominated by heavy-hitters like Resident Evil 4 Remake, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and Baldur’s Gate 3 (which earned a well-deserved silver medal), there are a few surprising entries further down the list.
For example, Dead Space Remake edges out Super Mario Bros. Wonder, with the latter landing in seventh place. The decision to put Dead Space ahead of the vibrant Super Mario title seems to highlight the enduring appeal of survival horror, even as colorful platformers continue to captivate players. Meanwhile, indie darling Dredge rounds out the top 10, making an unexpected appearance alongside juggernauts like Diablo 4 and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, both of which fail to make the list entirely.
While some of the choices in TIME’s ranking may not align with what everyone expected, the list reflects a diversity of gaming experiences—from indie gems to AAA blockbusters. It also serves as a reminder that the most memorable games of the year are not always the ones that dominate headlines, but sometimes the quieter, more niche experiences.
Was TIME Ahead of the Curve?
So, does TIME’s pick for Game of the Year reflect an early, insightful judgment, or is it simply a case of contrarian taste? We’ll find out soon enough. As the Game Awards loom, it remains to be seen whether Alan Wake II can secure the prestigious GOTY trophy or if Baldur’s Gate 3, which has captured the hearts of many, will ultimately take the crown.
Regardless of which game wins the top honors at the Game Awards, TIME’s list serves as an excellent reminder that the world of gaming is as diverse as it is dynamic. Whether you’re diving into the psychological thrills of Alan Wake II or exploring the vast open worlds of Zelda and Baldur’s Gate, 2023 has proven to be a remarkable year for gaming, with a little something for everyone.
In the end, it’s not just about which game wins GOTY, but about the incredible range of experiences available to players, and how different titles resonate with gamers in unique ways. As always, the true “Game of the Year” is a matter of personal taste—whether that’s a AAA blockbuster or an indie sensation.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.