Upcoming Video Games of 2023 According to Metacritic

When it comes to gaming, Metacritic scores can often determine whether a title lives up to its hype. And this year, the list is long and varied, from beloved franchises making a return to brand-new experiences that are redefining the genres they belong to. This article looks at the upcoming games in 2023 that are poised to capture both the hearts of players and critics alike, based on early reviews and hype. Expect everything from indie darlings to AAA blockbusters.

The Landscape of 2023 Games

2023 is defined by three key trends: the return of fan-favorite franchises, experimental indie projects, and remastered classics. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Final Fantasy XVI, and Resident Evil 4 Remake top the most anticipated lists. Meanwhile, indie games such as Hollow Knight: Silksong and Bomb Rush Cyberfunk are showcasing unique gameplay mechanics and beautiful design.

One of the critical aspects of Metacritic’s rankings is the balance between critic reviews and user feedback. While critical acclaim often gives a game prestige, player experience can dramatically influence a title's reputation over time. As we dive into some of these games, pay attention to how these scores shift as reviews come in throughout the year.

The Heavy Hitters of 2023

1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

   • Release Date: May 12, 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 95+
   • What to Expect: A direct sequel to 2017’s Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom builds upon its predecessor’s open-world design and introduces new mechanics, such as flying islands and advanced puzzle-solving. Nintendo has a legacy to uphold here, and all early indicators point toward another critical and commercial hit.

2. Final Fantasy XVI

   • Release Date: June 22, 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 90+
   • What to Expect: A massive departure from the typical Final Fantasy formula, this entry promises real-time combat and a darker, more mature story. Square Enix is banking on this reinvention to attract both longtime fans and newcomers.

3. Resident Evil 4 Remake

   • Release Date: March 24, 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 88-92
   • What to Expect: Capcom continues its streak of remaking classic Resident Evil titles. This time, it’s the iconic Resident Evil 4, which many consider one of the best games ever made. Enhanced visuals, modern controls, and reworked story elements make this a must-play.

Indie Darlings: Shining Beyond the Blockbusters

The indie game scene has grown exponentially, and 2023 will see the rise of several titles that are likely to make waves across Metacritic. While they may not have the same budgets as AAA games, indie developers often take more risks, leading to innovative and fresh gameplay experiences.

1. Hollow Knight: Silksong

   • Release Date: TBD 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 85+
   • What to Expect: This highly anticipated sequel has players returning to the dark, mysterious world of Hollow Knight. With challenging platforming, combat, and exploration, Silksong is already being hailed as one of the best indie titles of the year—whenever it decides to release.

2. Bomb Rush Cyberfunk

   • Release Date: August 18, 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 80+
   • What to Expect: Fans of Jet Set Radio will rejoice as this spiritual successor hits the scene. With vibrant visuals, smooth movement mechanics, and a killer soundtrack, it’s an indie game that celebrates freedom of movement and creativity.

A Year of Surprises: Lesser-Known Titles to Watch

While AAA games tend to dominate the headlines, 2023 has a handful of sleeper hits that may fly under the radar but could become cult classics. These games might not have the marketing power of larger studios but often come packed with heart and innovation.

1. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

   • Release Date: TBD 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 78-85
   • What to Expect: Created by the developers behind Suikoden, this RPG brings back the nostalgic 2D sprites combined with 3D environments. With over 100 characters to recruit, fans of old-school JRPGs should keep a close eye on this one.

2. Atomic Heart

   • Release Date: February 21, 2023
   • Metacritic Score (Predicted): 80+
   • What to Expect: A Soviet-inspired first-person shooter with a surreal twist, Atomic Heart combines Bioshock-style gameplay with an eerie, dystopian aesthetic. Early gameplay reveals have left gamers intrigued, making it one of the dark horses of the year.

The Power of User Reviews in 2023

One of the trends to watch in 2023 is the growing influence of user reviews on Metacritic scores. As gaming communities become more vocal, it’s no longer just about what critics think—gamers themselves are shifting the narrative. Titles like Cyberpunk 2077 have shown how user feedback can drastically impact a game’s legacy.

Bold Predictions for the Year: Games such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom are expected to have high user and critic scores, but the smaller indie games may dominate user reviews. The interaction between critic and player opinions will shape the landscape more than ever.

A quick glance at the data reveals a fascinating insight into how different gaming platforms fare in terms of Metacritic scores. Based on historical data, here’s a breakdown of expected trends:

It’s clear that PC remains a dominant platform for high-scoring games, but consoles are catching up quickly, especially with first-party exclusives.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming video games of 2023 are set to offer something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of large-scale RPGs, survival horror, or quirky indie projects, this year is stacked with incredible options. Metacritic will play a huge role in helping players navigate these titles, offering a window into what to expect from both the gaming press and everyday players.

As the year progresses, we’ll likely see some surprises, disappointments, and sleeper hits rise to the top. But no matter where you land in your gaming preferences, 2023 promises to be one of the most exciting years for video games in recent memory.

2222 ends with a question: Which game are you most excited for?