From Batman Arkham Origins to God of War: Top 10 Games to Play This Christmas Season

The countdown to Christmas has begun. And we want to help you figure out your gaming schedule for the final showdown of 2023. We can look back at the year and feel lucky to have gotten some amazing titles across various genres. Alan Wake 2, Spider-Man 2, Super-Mario Bros. Wonder? There was something for everyone. But now that we’re in holiday season, we can’t just be looking at any games. Christmas calls for something different.

If video games are part of your Christmas tradition or you just like spending the holidays gaming, here’s a list of games to play or revisit this Christmas season to spice up your holidays.

1. Mario Kart 

No matter the version, no matter which console, Mario Kart won’t disappoint you. It can be a perfect game to experience with your family and friends after having a heavy festive dinner!

Not to mention, it ignites a very healthy competitive spirit among the players. This Nintendo epic is an evergreen go to family game that has to be on your schedule for the climax of 2023. 

2. Dead Rising 4 

Despite the fact that Dead Rising 4 couldn’t match the standards set by the franchise, this game might just spice up your holiday gaming season. Why? Well, Dead Rising 4 takes place during the Christmas month. So, there are plenty of decorations and other holiday-themed essentials that can be used as weapons to take down the brain-eating monsters. Hence, if you’re looking for mindless rampage fun, Dead Rising 4 is your answer.

3. Bayonetta 2 

Of all the reasons to convince you to play Bayonetta 2 this holiday, it is taking place during Christmas is a reason enough. It is very much a die-hard video game. The unhinged wild action carnival would surely leave you smiling. It has impressive gunplay, detailed combat, and larger-than-life bosses. Overall, Bayonetta 2 is among the most highly recommended video games for Christmas. 

4. Banjo-Kazooie

Want to go a bit old school? If you crave to burst out of your Nintendo 64 for the holidays, then boot up the first installment of this iconic animal adventure. With smart puzzles, platforms, and a winter level, it has everything you need to have you invest this holiday. Also, in the fast-moving graphical world, this revisit to the Banjo-Kazooie would surely take you back to the early days of gaming culture. A nostalgic party to begin with! 

5. Batman Arkham Origins 

The game is set before the events of Arkham Asylum. The game pits you against a host of villains, including the Penguin, Killer Croc, Electrocutioner, Shiva, Copperhead, Deathstroke, Firefly, Deadshot, Bane, and Joker. What makes this a good option for Christmas isn’t that it’s snowing in the game. Rather, it’s because the game takes place during Christmas Eve, when Black Mask puts a bounty on Batman, seen in the bounty poster stating One night to kill the bat. The game also features Alfred, Jim Gordo before he and Batman became allies, and Barbara Gordon.

6. Animal Crossing New Horizons 

Animal Crossing New Horizons ticks off every essential from the holiday checklist. In fact, this game has something that works for every season. Whether it’s crafting snowmen, packing as much Christmas memorabilia as possible, or sweeping through paradise, it’s charming in every way. Nothing like hosting Christmas with your friends along with Isabelle and villagers. New Horizons celebrates winter like no other game can, so it’s a must-try for your checklist. 

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7. God of War: Ragnarok

A staple of the holiday season is families coming together and snowfall. God of War: Ragnarok might be a perfect symbol of the same. The father-son duo discover the dynamics of their relationships as they sweep across the snow for answers.

The hard fate of the duo leaves you with heartwarming emotions. Of course, the game stays with you for a long time but it also preaches the value of love and family amidst the chaos of life. 

8. Spider-Man Miles Morales 

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 took care of your fall. Now let Miles Morales do the rest. If you want to sprinkle some Christmas cheer in your web-slinging action, then Miles Morales is the way to go. 

A brief yet brilliant experience focusing on the rise of the second Spider-Man Miles Morales is framed in a snowy New York. Nothing screams goodwill than webbing up thugs on the street to save the day. And all this during Christmas, which is when the game is set.

9. Stray 

Have a cat in any game and you’re set for an adorable experience. Stray takes the bankability of cats to the next level. The concept is simple, just be a cat and interact with the dystopian society as you move along your journey. Discover what it’s like to be humans’ favorite pet. Although here’s a twist, you’ll be exploring the streets as a stray animal. It certainly has the potential to send you into a zen mode! 

10. It Takes Two 

This game is nothing but joy wrapped in a colorful Co-Op package. It Takes Two exudes a very “domestic” feel that is both relatable and informal. Even though there can only be two players in this game, it’s still entertaining to watch. Players assume the characters of Cody and May, an antagonistic couple who are magically transformed into dolls. Together, they must solve riddles, take out enemies, and ultimately repair their damaged relationship in order to return to their former selves.

The game has an appealing visual style and pleasant, original difficulties.

These were the top 10 most recommended games for your holiday gaming schedule. Did we miss out on any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below. 

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