The dawn of awards season often brings with it the anticipation of recognizing the year's top video games in standard categories like best graphics, game of the year, and best soundtrack. However, Nintendo Life takes a delightful detour with its Alternative Game Awards 2023, honoring the quirky and noteworthy aspects of gaming that typically fly under the radar.
One of the standout categories in this unconventional lineup is the "Most Long-Winded Switch Game Title 2023," awarded to "Mon-Yu: Defeat Monsters And Gain Strong Weapons And Armor. You May Be Defeated, But Don't Give Up. Become Stronger. I Believe There Will Be A Day When The Heroes Defeat The Devil King." This title by Aksys not only guides the player on what to expect from the game but also serves as a motivational nudge to the aspiring warriors within. Runners-up in this category included games like "Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" and "Atelier Marie Remake: The Alchemist Of Salburg," to name a few.
Next, the award for the "Best 'Game That Doesn’t Fit Neatly On Any Of Our Genre Lists' 2023" was taken by "Dredge," a game that marvelously blends fishing, horror, and RPG elements into one cohesive experience. Its refusal to be categorized made it a memorable addition to the gaming landscape and a title worth diving into. The versatility of "Dredge" is a reminder of the creativity found in the gaming industry where developers dare to mix genres and create something truly unique.
When it comes to aesthetics on the Switch's user interface, Nintendo Life crowned "Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater" with the "Best Switch Icon 2023" award. Notably illustrated by Yoji Shinkawa, the artwork for the game’s icon stands out with its remarkable use of color and arrangement on the dashboard.
For the games that arrived just a tad too late to be duly noted in annual roundups, the "Best 'End-Of-Year Arrival That Dropped Too Late To Make Our GOTY List' 2023" winner was "Outer Wilds." The long-awaited title finally landed on the Nintendo Switch and earned a glowing review, yet didn't arrive in time to be considered for the traditional game of the year deliberations. With high praise and solid ratings, it's a game marked for holiday playtime.
The alternative awards also celebrated nostalgia done right with "The Making of Karateka" snagging the title for "Best Retro Remaster Or Re-Release 2023." This release not only gives players a chance to relive the classic Karateka but also dives into the development process behind the game, making it a fascinating treat for both new players and veterans.
Perhaps the most peculiar category is the "Best Worst Best Worst Game 2023," which shines a light on those addictive games that we love to hate. This year, "Vampire Survivors" took the crown, becoming a time-consuming phenomenon that has players glued to their screens, forgoing sleep in favor of just one more round.
Far from the traditional categories and typical household names, the Nintendo Life Alternative Game Awards provide a refreshing take on the yearly roundup. From lengthy titles to icons and late bloomers, these awards celebrate the distinctive elements that often go unnoticed but significantly contribute to our love for gaming. They remind us that the gaming world is vast and multifaceted, where every detail can be an achievement worth celebrating.
As the calendar turns and we gear up for another year of video game releases, it is these unconventional awards that linger in our memories, often becoming talking points amongst avid gamers. Whether it's the sleep-destroying allure of an addictive game or the pleasure of seeing a beautiful icon on the dashboard, these alternative honorees have made their indelible mark on 2023. With each new year, games and moments like these enrich our experiences, making us eager to see what the next round of Nintendo Life's Alternative Game Awards will highlight.
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