In a world bustling with deadlines, deliverables, and responsibilities, it’s easy to lose sight of the simple pleasures that provide us with simple joy. Now, amidst the hustle and bustle of modern stress, there exists a hidden treasure, and for the Next Upgrade team, it is gaming, among several other things.
This is why we are updating you guys on our favorite games for 2023. Is it a first-person shooter? Perhaps an RPG? As a bonus, I also asked the team to describe their overall experience in two to three words. Curious? Stick around and find out who plays what!
Duolingo
From Duolingo Official Website
“My go-to game this 2023 is not really a game game.. but a gamified learning platform. I spend around 1 hour almost every day on it. I want to learn Spanish without breaking the bank. I like that it's also self-paced learning. I want to travel more in my 30s; that’s why I want to learn more languages.” - Matt Balicudiong, Editor-in-Chief
Overall experience: I'm that geek…
Tears of the Kingdom
From Nintendo Official Website
“My favorite game of 2023 is Tears of the Kingdom because otherwise, it would still be Animal Crossing. Jk! It’s because it’s really awesome—some of the best money I’ve ever spent on a game.
According to my Switch, I’ve played a total of ‘345 hours or more,’ and I haven’t ‘completed’ it. I’m technically about to — all I have left to do is to beat the big baddie to complete the storyline.” - Elaine Carag, Managing Editor
Overall experience: Feeling proud.
Unpacking
From Unpacking Official Website
“After busy days of working, I find solace in playing "Unpacking" – a unique, calming game that revolves around the act of unpacking belongings and arranging a living space. It’s a meditative game that has become a part of my routine, offering me a weekly source of tranquility and a zen-like gaming experience.” - Gracey Maala, Associate Editor
Overall experience: It’s indeed relaxing.
Stardew Valley
“I've heard of Stardew Valley in the past, but I only got to try it this year--and it is so worth it! I was first enthralled by the farming aspect, but the more I played, the more I got hooked. It has so many good surprises--there are games within the game!--and leveling up gives me such a boost. It's both relaxing and challenging in all the right ways. And the soundtrack gives you all the right feels too!” - Karess Rubrico, Associate Editor
Overall experience: Fun, fun, fun!
Delicious World
From Google Play Store
“I like the game Delicious World because it’s just a simple simulation like Diner Dash. I used to play its pirated version as a kid on old laptops, so I think I just really like it, too, for the nostalgia. And the storyline is basically a prequel of the older games but with better illustrations, I guess.” - Gelle Arcega, Art Director
Overall experience: Makes me hungry!!!
Crusader Kings II
From Steam Official Website
“My go-to game for 2023 is actually an oldie: Crusader Kings II. It's a strategy and resource management game that allows players to play as historical figures who control a portion of land with no real end goal other than becoming more powerful/influential.
I played the older version despite CK3 being out since I was able to get all the DLCs for it and even install mods - specifically the Game of Thrones mod - that kept me from not getting bored of playing it.” - JR Carag, Content Writer
Overall experience: Just one more.
Final Fantasy VII Remake
From Square Enix Official Website
“My go-to game is Final Fantasy VII Remake. Yes, I know it's three years late, but better late than never! I haven’t played much because of work, but I try my best to play a few hours at least once a month. Maybe I’ll get to finish the game by the end of 2023! LOL.” - Kitty Elicay, Content Writer
Overall experience: Nostalgic and immersive
BattleBit Remastered
From Steam Official Website
My entry is BattleBit Remastered. Honestly, I didn’t expect this to be my go-to game. I am honestly a League of Legends guy by default, but in my free time, I find myself opening the game. It can span from 15 minutes to 2 hours; it is amusing.
If you want to read further into my experience, you can check out this article here.
Overall experience: Medic, help!!!
And there you have it, the go-to games that help us destress from everyday life. Some of these games also require an Internet connection for their multiplayer platform. If you have several multiplayer games in your library and need an upgrade, check out PLDT Home Fiber Plus plans. With its fiber-fast speeds, your gaming experience will be all the more immersive!