Every year, Japanese studios and major companies treat us to new masterpieces in the world of video games. And this year is no exception. Whether it's the continuation of timeless sagas or new universes to explore, there's something for everyone to escape into on various consoles and platforms. For the most avid enthusiasts among us, here are 5 of the best Japanese video games not to be missed in 2023.
THE LEGEND OF ZELDA : TEARS OF THE KINGDOM
Six years after Breath of the Wild's release in 2017, NINTENDO delighted us with a sequel to the legendary THE LEGEND OF ZELDA franchise on May 12, 2023. Taking place chronologically three years after the events of its predecessor, THE LEGEND OF ZELDA : TEARS OF THE KINGDOM unfolds in the kingdom of Hyrule. You will embody Link, tasked with preventing Calamity Ganon from destroying Hyrule. The game introduces new features, such as Link's ability to fly, new weapons, and new enemies.
Tears of the Kingdom has been widely praised by the specialized press. This enthusiasm was shared by millions of players scattered around the world. In addition to gameplay and graphics living up to the franchise's reputation, this new adventure shines with the quality of its sound design and open-world setting.
FINAL FANTASY XVI ON PS5
In June 2023, Square Enix unveiled the sixteenth main installment of the Final Fantasy series to be played on the PlayStation 5. With its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and captivating storyline, FINAL FANTASY XVI will take you on a journey to the kingdom of Valisthea. Take up arms and challenge the Empire of Rosaria. Assume the role of Clive Rosfield, seeking vengeance for his late father, the King of Valisthea !
Final Fantasy XVI is an action-adventure game where you can choose between three different classes : warrior, mage, and thief. Each class has its own skills and abilities. You also have the option to summon powerful beings to aid you in battle. With this game, you will experience at least 40 hours of memorable adventures and combat.
LIKE A DRAGON : ISHIN ! ON PS5
Released in Japan in 2014, LIKE A DRAGON : ISHIN ! has finally crossed the borders of the Land of the Rising Sun in February 2023, much to our delight. This game is developed by Ryu ga Gotoku Studio and published by SEGA. LIKE A DRAGON : ISHIN ! is an action-adventure game with RPG elements. In this game, you can step into the shoes of Ryoma Sakamoto, a young samurai who fights for the unification of Japan. The game takes place in the 1860s in Kyōto, a fictional version of Kyoto.
As Ryoma Sakamoto, you will explore Kyōto, battle enemies, solve puzzles, and interact with characters. The game also features a turn-based combat system, in which you can use a variety of weapons and techniques to defeat your foes.
FIRE EMBLEM ENGAGE ON NINTENDO SWITCH
Fire Emblem Engage is a tactical RPG developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo. The game is set in the fantasy world of Eleos, where humans and dragons live together in peace. However, peace is threatened by the emergence of the Aethons, a new group of dragons seeking to conquer the world. You will play as the young Eirika, tasked with raising an army to combat the Aethons and save the world.
Fire Emblem Engage is characterized by its turn-based combat system and a wide variety of characters. Players can customize their characters by giving them different weapons, skills, and classes. They can also form relationships between their characters.
FORSPOKEN
Forspoken is an RPG developed by Luminous Productions and published by Square Enix. It was released on Microsoft Windows and PlayStation 5 on January 24, 2023. The game follows the story of Frey Holland, a young woman from New York who finds herself teleported to the world of Athia, a dangerous and magical realm. In her new guise, you must use your newfound abilities to survive and find a way back home.
Forspoken is an action RPG that emphasizes exploration, combat, and puzzles. You can freely explore the world of Athia, aided by Tanta Sila, who will help you acclimate to this fantastical new realm. Take on enemies, collect items, and solve puzzles to find the doorway that will lead you back home.