Welcoming the New Year often brings a wave of nostalgia and reflection. As 2024 dawned, gamers around the world reminisced on the year passed, particularly on the treasure trove of games that graced the Nintendo eShop. December 2023 was no exception, presenting a plethora of exciting titles ranging from indie gems to nostalgic remasters. While it was a quieter month, the quality of game releases did not falter. Here's a look at what games shone the brightest during December and a recap of all the eShop Selects winners from the year 2023.
Notably, December saw games that brought forward compelling stories, innovative gameplay, and vivid worlds. Despite its quieter release schedule, it managed to capture players' hearts and minds. Among the commendable mentions were 'Terra Nil', 'Chico and the Magic Orchards DX', 'Palia', 'Born of Bread', and the remastered 'Turok 3: Shadow of Oblivion', each adding unique flavors to the eShop’s library.
Moving to the month’s highlights, 'A Highland Song', created by inkle Studios, offered a poignant journey through the beautiful highlands of Scotland. The player takes on the role of Moira, who amidst the myths and legends, seeks a lighthouse left behind by her uncle. The game not only impressed with its stirring narrative but also with its representation of Scottish folklore set against an artistically painted landscape. The game resonated with many, earning itself a respectable 7/10.
Diving into a different genre, 'SteamWorld Build' by Thunderful made its mark as a standout title. Known for its genre-hopping tendencies, the SteamWorld series surpassed expectations once again. A collaboration of city-building and dungeon-crawling, this game introduces players to intricate systems while maintaining an addictive simplicity. Tasked with constructing a new town and delving into mines, players encounter a steampunk world teeming with post-apocalyptic survival elements – a title that amassed a solid 8/10.
However, the crowning jewel of December, and the game that triumphed with the highest accolades, was 'Outer Wilds' by Mobius Digital. This game's long-awaited arrival on the Nintendo Switch was met with jubilation, and despite some performance stutters, it enchanted players with its time-loop narrative and vast space exploration. Each 22-minute loop promised a fresh experience, inviting players to unearth its secrets over numerous attempts. It's this ingenuity and engagement that earned 'Outer Wilds' a stellar 9/10, solidifying its top spot for the month.
With December covered, it's time to look back at the entire year's winners on the eShop. The year proved to be a cornucopia of gaming delights. Excluding major franchises, the quality and diversity of games were unparalleled, from gripping rereleases to sparkling new indie experiences. The eShop Selects Hall of Fame for 2023 showcased a variety of games that gamers could download and enjoy.
Here is the list of all eShop Selects winners from 2023:
- January: 'Persona 4 Golden'
- February: 'Blanc'
- March: 'Have A Nice Death'
- April: 'Final Fantasy VI'
- May: 'Cassette Beasts'
- June: 'Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective'
- July: 'Venba'
- August: 'Sea of Stars'
- September: 'F-Zero 99'
- October: 'Dave The Diver'
- November: 'Astral Ascent'
- December: 'Outer Wilds'
The selection of these winners wasn't a whimsical decision but a careful contemplation by the Nintendo Life staff. Games released as digital-only on the eShop and those that have been reviewed on the site were candidates for the monthly shortlist. Staff members cast their votes for the games they deemed the most commendable, with points awarded to their top three choices. This voting process determined each month's triumphs, leading to the overall winner.
As the curtains close on an impressive year for the Nintendo eShop, players are not just left with a library of noteworthy games but with anticipation for what's to come. The success of the games in 2023 is a testament to the vibrant and innovative spirit of developers and the unwavering enthusiasm from gamers. Here's to another year of thrilling adventures, compelling stories, and unforgettable gaming moments on the eShop.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
