19 Must-Play Games You Can’t Miss This Year
Every year, the gaming world blesses us with a slew of incredible titles, but only a select few rise to the top of the must-play list. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone looking to dip your toes into virtual worlds for the first time, these games are guaranteed to keep you glued to your screen. From action-packed adventures to soul-stirring narratives, here are 19 games you absolutely can’t miss this year.
1. Starfield
If you’ve ever wanted to explore the cosmos without leaving your couch, Starfield is the game for you. Bethesda’s latest RPG lets you pilot spaceships, visit alien planets, and customize your character to absurd levels of detail. Think Skyrim but in space—with all the moral dilemmas, intergalactic politics, and weird alien creatures you could dream of. Get ready to lose hundreds of hours discovering the mysteries of the universe, one side quest at a time.
2. Baldur’s Gate 3
For fans of deep role-playing and storytelling, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a must. Set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, this game gives you an absurd amount of freedom in how you approach every situation. Whether you’re charming your way through dialogue or fireballing your way through combat, every choice has consequences. The game’s mix of strategic turn-based combat and narrative twists will have you hooked until you’re debating whether or not to romance a vampire. (You will.)
3. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
If swinging through New York City in a spandex suit sounds like a good time, then Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has you covered. In this sequel, you can play as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, doubling the web-slinging fun. With stunning graphics, smooth combat, and a story full of classic Spidey villains, this game captures everything you love about the superhero experience. Plus, who doesn’t want to web-swing between skyscrapers like it’s a casual morning commute?
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4. Resident Evil 4 (Remake)
The remake of Resident Evil 4 manages to make one of the greatest survival horror games even better. With updated graphics, improved controls, and some extra surprises, it’s both nostalgic and terrifying in all the right ways. Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the series, navigating through creepy villages while battling hordes of infected will have your heart racing. Just don’t trust anyone who looks like they’ve spent too much time hanging around spooky castles.
5. Hogwarts Legacy
Ever dreamed of attending Hogwarts without worrying about He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named ruining your school year? In Hogwarts Legacy, you can live that fantasy. Set in the 1800s, long before Harry Potter arrived, this open-world game lets you craft spells, brew potions, and explore magical locations around Hogwarts. It’s every Potterhead’s dream, from flying broomsticks to dueling dark wizards. Just be prepared to never want to leave the castle grounds.
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6. Final Fantasy XVI
In Final Fantasy XVI, you’ll get swept into a world of political intrigue, giant monster battles, and some of the most cinematic combat sequences ever seen. This entry in the long-running series ditches turn-based battles for fast-paced action, making every fight feel intense and epic. The story is dark, full of twists, and hits all the right emotional beats. If you’re looking for a fantasy adventure with over-the-top drama and jaw-dropping visuals, this is the one.
7. Alan Wake 2
Prepare for mind-bending psychological horror in Alan Wake 2. The sequel to the cult classic ramps up the spooky atmosphere, mixing detective work with supernatural terrors. You play as both Alan Wake, a writer trapped in a nightmarish reality, and an FBI agent investigating his disappearance. The narrative twists will keep you guessing, and the eerie setting will make sure you never feel too comfortable. Bring a flashlight—you’ll need it.
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8. Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Assassin’s Creed Mirage takes the series back to its roots with a focus on stealth, parkour, and historical intrigue. Set in Baghdad during the Islamic Golden Age, you play as Basim, a cunning assassin climbing the ranks of the Brotherhood. The return to a more streamlined, story-driven experience is a refreshing change from the sprawling open worlds of recent entries. Expect plenty of rooftop chases, silent takedowns, and hidden blade action.
9. Lies of P
What if Pinocchio wasn’t a sweet little wooden boy, but instead a deadly puppet navigating a dark, twisted version of 19th-century Europe? Lies of P answers that question in the form of a gritty action RPG. With fast-paced combat, steampunk vibes, and a surprisingly deep narrative, this game delivers a unique spin on a classic tale. It’s like if Bloodborne and Pinocchio had a dark, moody baby.
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10. Mortal Kombat 1
The latest entry in the iconic fighting series, Mortal Kombat 1, brings back all the bone-crunching, spine-ripping action fans love, but with a fresh start. It’s technically a reboot, but the signature brutal combat remains intact. New fighters, stunning graphics, and some of the most over-the-top fatalities to date make this a must-play for fighting game fans. Just don’t play it if you’ve just eaten—those finishing moves are not for the faint of heart.
11. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
The world of Cyberpunk 2077 gets a massive upgrade with the Phantom Liberty expansion. Packed with new content, characters, and an espionage-heavy storyline, it feels like a whole new game. Plus, Keanu Reeves is back, which is always a win. If you were disappointed by the original release, this expansion redeems it in all the right ways, making Night City a place you actually want to return to, even if it’s a little… glitchy.
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12. Diablo IV
In Diablo IV, you’ll descend into the darkest, grimmest version of Sanctuary yet. This game embraces its horror roots, delivering a world overrun by demons, cults, and endless loot. The open-world structure allows you to tackle dungeons and quests at your own pace, but be ready for brutal combat and tough bosses. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, the satisfying grind for better gear and bigger enemies never gets old.
13. Street Fighter 6
Fighting game fans, rejoice—Street Fighter 6 brings the classic series back in style. With a revamped combat system, flashy visuals, and a diverse cast of characters, it’s the ultimate brawler for veterans and newbies alike. The new “Drive System” adds layers of strategy, keeping every match intense and unpredictable. If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering the art of the Hadouken, now’s your chance.
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14. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
In Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, you return to the galaxy far, far away as Cal Kestis, a Jedi on the run from the Empire. The sequel to Jedi: Fallen Order expands the combat system, letting you feel like a true Jedi, whether you’re slashing stormtroopers with your lightsaber or using the Force to fling them into walls. With new planets to explore and an even darker storyline, this game is a dream come true for Star Wars fans.
15. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon
If giant mechs battling it out in dystopian landscapes sounds like your thing, then Armored Core VI is a game you shouldn’t miss. From the creators of Dark Souls, this title brings intense mech customization and high-octane combat to the forefront. Every battle feels like a chaotic ballet of missiles, lasers, and explosions. Strap in—it’s a wild ride.
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16. Pikmin 4
For something a little more lighthearted, Pikmin 4 brings back the adorable plant-like creatures in a charming real-time strategy adventure. You’ll guide your Pikmin army through colorful environments, solving puzzles and collecting treasures. Don’t let the cute aesthetic fool you, though—the strategy required to manage your Pikmin and defeat enemies can get surprisingly intense. It’s the perfect blend of cute and challenging.
17. Fae Farm
If farming, crafting, and managing a magical homestead sound like your perfect way to unwind, then Fae Farm has got you covered. This cozy life-simulation game lets you build and decorate your own farm in a world full of fairies, magic, and talking animals. Whether you’re growing crops, fishing, or helping mystical creatures, it’s a relaxing escape from the stresses of real life. Plus, the multiplayer mode lets you share the magic with friends.
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18. Sonic Superstars
Gotta go fast never gets old, and Sonic Superstars brings that classic speed back with modern twists. The side-scrolling platformer captures everything fans love about Sonic, from the high-speed loops to the colorful zones, but adds new powers and co-op multiplayer. Whether you’ve been chasing rings since the 90s or you’re new to the blue blur, this game is pure, unfiltered fun.
19. Lords of the Fallen
Lords of the Fallen combines brutal, souls-like combat with a dark, immersive world full of deadly enemies and intricate lore. It’s perfect for players who love a challenge and aren’t afraid to die repeatedly in the name of progress. The game’s expansive world and complex character customization make every victory feel hard-earned. Just be prepared to scream at your screen a few times—it’s all part of the experience.
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