Game of the year 2023: Best family game –

The hardcore, Soulsborne enthusiasts of the world will probably turn their noses up at the words “family game,” but it’s important to remember that there are gamers of all ages in the world, and at the end of the day all every gamer wants to do is have a little fun. Without further ado, here are our best family games of the past year.

5. Bluey: the video game

Outright Games has carved a bit of a niche for itself in making some fun adventures for families based on some famous IPs. We’ve seen Jumanji games, Transformers games and now the cartoon sensation Bluey has its own video game. Packed with collectibles to keep you coming back even after you finish the story, and mini-games to play over and over again, Bluey: The Videogame has a lot to offer young families.

Parents can join in too, as co-op is available for up to four players, allowing you to take on the role of one of Bluey’s family members, including voice actors from the show’s cast.

4. Sonic superstars

With this new take on the classic Sonic formula, the whole family can join in as you get to play as Sonic, Knuckles, Tails and more. You’ll whiz through fun zones in this 2D platform game that is sure to delight older fans of the franchise as well as provide a great introduction to newer speedsters.

With plenty of variety in the levels and new gameplay mechanics revolving around Sonic’s gems, Sonic Superstars feels like a step in the right direction for this beloved franchise after a few shaky years.

3. Pikmin 4

After a decade, we finally have a new Pikmin game in Pikmin 4, and we have to say that this one is incredibly easy to pick up, especially for new fans. The rescue puppy Oatchi is a great help, and the fact that you can have a friend along for the adventure also helps tremendously.

Pikmin 4 is a great game on its own, but especially as a family title it is easy to pick up and play, there is incredible depth in the mission areas, Dandori Battles and more, and it is all so cute in its design that you can just get lost in this miniature world.

2. Super Mario Bros. Wonder

The Mario Renaissance is officially here. After the success of the Super Mario Bros. Movie and Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it feels like our favorite plumber is officially back in a big way. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is not only one of the best platform games out there, but by allowing co-op for up to four players (without being able to knock each other off platforms), it feels like it’s perfectly tailored to a family audience.

Plus, there are even easier characters to play with, such as Nabbit and the Yoshi’s, meaning that even if you’re not the most skilled platformer out there, you can still have a lot of fun with the weird and wacky gameplay introduced in Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The only downside is that, unfortunately, you can’t turn into an elephant.

1. Disney Illusion Island

On Disney’s 100th anniversary, we got an animated adventure classic that feels like it was ripped straight from the animation vault. Mickey, Goofy, Donald Duck and Minnie find themselves on Monoth Island. They are expecting a picnic and are soon told that they are actually here to save the island and its people by tracking down the Tomes of Knowledge that protect the island.

With fun platforming action, great visuals, exciting boss fights and more, Disney Illusion Island may not have had the same overwhelming praise as some of the other entries on this list, but it will certainly charm any family that picks it up.

There’s our list. What did you think of it? Are there any contests we missed? Let us know!