December 2023 marks a pivotal moment in the gaming world, a period rich with groundbreaking events and milestones. This month is a true cap to a great year–below you will find OutsiderGaming’s 2023 “year in review” gaming article.
In December, we’ve witnessed the dazzling spectacle of the Game Awards 2023–where innovation and creativity in gaming were celebrated. These events, along with many other important ones, paint a clear picture of an industry that is always changing, pushing the limits, and attracting people all over the world.
Gaming Industry Was a Rollercoaster
The gaming industry in 2023 has been nothing short of a thrilling ride, marked by milestones, unexpected twists, and significant shifts.
This year has seen record-breaking player engagements, the introduction of innovative gaming experiences, and the resurgence of beloved franchises. Here are some key highlights.
Fortnite Reaches 44.7 million Players in One Night – Last Day of OG Map
In an unprecedented gaming event, Fortnite’s ‘OG’ update, which revisited the original Battle Royale mode, attracted a staggering 44.7 million players in a single day.
This historic moment for Epic Games not only celebrated nostalgia but also set a new record in the game’s history, surpassing the previous high of 12 million concurrent users during a 2020 in-game concert. This milestone reflects Fortnite’s continued ability to engage a vast global audience and its significant impact on the gaming community.
Game Awards 2023
The 2023 Game Awards was a landmark event, spotlighting major titles and upcoming releases in the gaming industry. Among the key highlights were the announcement of the free Valhalla DLC for God of War: Ragnarok and the reveal of new titles like Monster Hunter Wilds and Suicide Squad.
The Game Awards 2023 announcements included:
New games:
- Marvel’s Blade
- Monster Hunter Wilds
- FF7 Rebirth
- Black Myth
- Visions of Mana
- Rise of Ronin
- Jet Set Radio
- Shinobi
- Golden Axe
- Streets of Rage
DLC:
- God of War Ragnarök
Other announcements:
- Next projects from Hello Games, Motion Twin, and Finji
- New entries in the Monster Hunter, Dead By Daylight, and Secret Of Mana franchises
Some of the winners at The Game Awards 2023 include:
- Game of the Year: Baldur’s Gate 3
- Best Narrative: Alan Wake II
- Best Indie Game: Sea of Stars
New Game Announcements in PC Gaming Show
The PC Gaming Show of November 2023 was a significant event for PC gamers, featuring a wide array of new game announcements set for release in 2024. The lineup included eagerly awaited titles such as:
- Stalker 2: A new story trailer was revealed for this highly anticipated title, now in the final stages of development and targeting an early 2024 release.
- Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2: The long-awaited sequel announced a Fall 2024 release, revealing its third playable clan – The Banu Haqim.
- Mortal Crux: An isometric, medieval RPG offering a nonlinear experience with co-op play and engaging combat.
- Dwarf Fortress: The return of Adventure mode to this cult classic, set for Steam in April 2024.
- Holstin: A survival horror game set in 90’s Poland, slated for a 2024 release.
- Unrailed 2: The sequel to the popular co-op game, featuring new abilities, wagons, and boss battles, launching in early access in 2024.
These announcements showcased the diversity and innovation in the PC gaming sector, highlighting new experiences and adventures that gamers can look forward to in the coming year.
Squid Game Enters Gaming Industry
The popular Netflix series Squid Game expanded its reach into the gaming industry with the launch of ‘Squid Game Virtuals’ by Sandbox VR. Launched in September, 2023, this VR-based experience generated $4.56 million in just two months, marking it as Sandbox VR’s most successful launch.
The game offers a full-body VR experience that immerses players in the world of Squid Game, available at numerous Sandbox VR locations. This venture illustrates the growing intersection of popular culture and immersive gaming experiences.
Outsider Gaming Fall 2023 Recap
The gaming landscape in Fall 2023 was vibrant with the release of several high-profile games. Each title brought its unique flavor to the gaming world, catering to diverse preferences of gamers. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most talked-about games OutsiderGaming covered:
- EA FC 24: The latest iteration in the beloved football series, bringing fresh updates and immersive gameplay. Read more.
- NBA 2k24: Elevating basketball simulation to new heights with its realistic gameplay and deep career modes. Read more.
- Marvel Spider-Man 2: Expanding the Spider-Man universe with more thrilling action and captivating storylines. Read more.
- Super Mario Bros Wonder: Introducing innovative elements to the iconic Mario series. Read more.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3: Continuing the legacy with advanced warfare tactics and gripping narratives. Read more.
- UFC 5: Offering a more authentic and intense fighting experience in the octagon.
- Forza Motorsport 8: Setting new standards in racing simulations with its stunning visuals and dynamic physics. Read more.
Key Stories We Covered
In addition to game releases, Fall 2023 was also marked by significant developments and announcements in the gaming industry.
We kept our readers informed with up-to-date coverage on these key stories:
- Fallout: The Post-Apocalypse: A new game set in the Fallout universe, promising a gripping tale and immersive gameplay. Read more.
- Zynga’s Power Slap Mobile Update: The biggest update yet for the mobile game, introducing new content and challenges. Read more.
- Warhammer Displates: Officially licensed Warhammer metal posters, offering a new way for fans to engage with the franchise. Read more.
- Alterverse: The Next Gaming Frontier: A groundbreaking gaming universe combining strategy, action, adventure, sports, and role-playing. Read more.
- Red Dead Redemption 3 Leak: Confirmation of the development of the next installment in the Red Dead Redemption series. Read more.
- Star Wars Jedi: Survivor: Potential sequel hints and spoilers for the next chapter in the Star Wars Jedi series. Read more
Top Product Reviews
Outsider Gaming also provided in-depth reviews of various gaming-related products, offering valuable insights for consumers:
- OneOdio Monitor 80 Professional Studio Headphones: A review of the OneOdio Monitor 80 headphones, highlighting their sound quality, comfort, and suitability for professional and audiophile use.
- AC Nexus VR: A review of Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR for the Meta Quest 3, exploring its immersive VR experience and gameplay mechanics.
- Meta Quest 3: An overview of the Meta Quest 3 VR headset, discussing its features, performance, and role in advancing VR technology.
Best Standard Content Guides
- Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Controls: A guide to mastering the controls in the immersive Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, offering insights into combat techniques and strategies for effective gameplay.
- How to Pick Up Snowballs in GTA 5: A fun and practical guide on engaging in snowball fights in GTA 5, enhancing the winter gameplay experience.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Beginner’s Guide: A beginner’s guide to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, covering basic controls, map navigation, and weapon choices, helping new players excel in the battlefield.
2024 Game Releases: OG Editorial Team Predictions
As we look ahead to 2024, the OG Editorial Team has compiled predictions for some of the most awaited game releases. Here’s our take on what these titles have in store:
- Tekken 8 (PC, PS5, XSX/S): Releasing on January 26, Tekken 8 is set to rejuvenate the fighting game scene. Fans can expect cutting-edge graphics, new characters, and refined mechanics, promising a blend of nostalgia and innovation.
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (PS5, XSX/S, PC): Slated for release on February 2, this game is poised to offer a unique twist on the superhero genre. Players will navigate a darker narrative, embodying anti-heroes in a game that’s as morally complex as it is action-packed.
- Tomb Raider Remastered (Switch, PC, PS, Xbox): Coming on February 14, this remaster is set to rekindle the charm of the classic Tomb Raider with modern enhancements. It’s an opportunity for both long-time fans and newcomers to experience Lara Croft’s adventures in updated glory.
- Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth (PS5): Scheduled for February 29, this sequel in the Final Fantasy 7 remake series is expected to continue the epic narrative with breathtaking visuals and immersive gameplay, staying true to the franchise’s legacy.
- Destiny 2: The Final Shape (PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, XSX/S): Set for release on June 4, this expansion is anticipated to enrich the Destiny universe, offering new lore and gameplay dimensions that deepen the already vast world of Destiny 2.
- Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 (PS5, XSX/S): With no confirmed release date yet, the anticipation for this anime-game title remains high. Expected to harness the power of new-gen consoles, it aims to deliver an enhanced Dragon Ball experience with superior graphics and fluid gameplay.
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FAQs
1. What are the key gaming industry trends to watch in 2024?
2024 is shaping up to be a transformative year in gaming, marked by the integration of generative AI in game development, enhancing creativity and efficiency. The rise of open source technology is democratizing game development, while a resurgence in games tech funding signals robust industry growth.
Additionally, cloud platforms are ramping up their offerings, leading to heightened competition and innovation in gaming experiences.
2. Which games were the highlights of 2023?
The gaming landscape of 2023 was dominated by several standout titles. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, released on October 20, 2023, was a major hit. The Last of Us Part II, Hades, One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4, Watch Dogs: Legion, God of War, Resident Evil 4, Skull and Bones, Nioh 2, Dead Island 2, Resident Evil 3, Ghost of Tsushima, Persona 5 Royal, Dying Light 2 Stay Human, Bayonetta 3, Cities: Skylines 2, and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty were among the games that captivated players worldwide.
3. What are the major game releases expected in 2024?
2024 is set to be an exciting year with anticipated releases like Star Wars Outlaws, Dragon’s Dogma 2, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Additionally, significant expansions are expected for popular titles like Destiny 2, Final Fantasy 14, and World of Warcraft.
4. What are the upcoming EA games slated for 2024?
Electronic Arts (EA) has confirmed several major releases for 2024. Gamers can look forward to titles like Immortals of Aveum, Madden 24, and EA Sports FC, all scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2024.
5. Is FIFA 25 in the works for a 2024 release?
Speculations suggest that FIFA 25, touted as one of the most ambitious projects in gaming history, is targeting a winter 2024 launch. This release timeframe is notably later than EA’s typical schedule, adding to the anticipation among fans.