As 2023 comes to a close, Nintendo Life has decided to diverge from the traditional game of the year accolades to appreciate the more unconventional and stand-out elements in the gaming world through its Alternative Game Awards. This light-hearted celebration aims to recognize games and game-related novelties that may not fit neatly into standard award categories but have made a lasting impression for various reasons.
The award for the Most Long-Winded Switch Game Title goes 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 stands out not only for its length but also for its motivational message to players. Rather than following the trend of search engine optimized, keyword-heavy titles, "Mon-Yu" offers a refreshing, albeit lengthy, take on game naming.
Runner-up titles, including "Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" and "Atelier Marie Remake: The Alchemist Of Salburg," also carry significant weight but don't quite reach the epic proportions of "Mon-Yu."
The award for the Best Game That Doesn't Fit Neatly On Any Genre Lists goes to "Dredge," a hybrid title blending fishing, horror, and role-playing elements. This genre-defying game intrigued players with its unique concept and received a commendable 8/10 score in Nintendo Life's review. "Dave The Diver" and "Shotgun King: The Final Checkmate" were worthy contenders but ultimately could not match "Dredge's" distinct gameplay experience.
When it comes to visual flair, the Best Switch Icon award is captured by the icon for "Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater" from the "Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1." The iconic illustration by Yoji Shinkawa won over other impressive icons such as those for "Venba" and "Quake II" based on its striking color usage and artistry.
Outer Wilds takes the win for the Best End-Of-Year Arrival That Dropped Too Late To Make Our GOTY List. Despite its late entry into the Switch library, "Outer Wilds" scored an impressive 9/10 and captured the imagination of both the reviewers and the audience who were awaiting its release. It serves as a perfect holiday gaming adventure for those who haven't had the chance to get into it yet.
In the category of Best Retro Remaster Or Re-Release, "The Making of Karateka" by Digital Eclipse stands out. Digital Eclipse has been recognized for its dedication to revitalizing classic games and was celebrated again for bringing "Karateka" to modern audiences while providing a deep dive into its development. The company's intent to continue with the 'Gold Master Series' into 2024 with "Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story" is a promising sign for fans of retro gaming.
Finally, the unconventional award for Best Worst Best Worst Game goes to "Vampire Survivors," a title that's as addictive as it is delightful. While it is incredibly engrossing and has won the hearts of many players, it's acknowledged for its ability to command unhealthy amounts of time from its players, creating a love-hate relationship with the game.
These alternative awards by Nintendo Life highlight that gaming appreciation isn’t always about the biggest titles or the most polished experiences. Sometimes, it’s the unique charm, the last-minute arrivals, or the one-of-a-kind concepts that make a year in gaming truly memorable. As we reflect on these standouts and anticipate what 2024 will bring, we can appreciate the variety and innovation that keep the world of gaming so exciting.
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