Expert Selection: Best Games to Play in 2023

Online gaming has come a long way in the past few years, and it has become a popular pastime for people of all ages. With a variety of games available on the internet, players can choose to indulge in action-packed battles, solve puzzles, compete with other players, or simply relax and unwind. The online gaming industry is continuously evolving, and new games are being launched every day. 

However, with so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which game is worth investing your time and money in. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best online games to play in 2023.

1. League of Legends

League of Legends is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that has been around for over a decade. It has a massive following and has become a phenomenon in the gaming industry. The game is free to play, but players can purchase in-game items with real money. The objective of the game is to work as a team to destroy the enemy's base. The game has a high skill ceiling, and mastering it can take a significant amount of time.

Advantages:

• The game has a huge player base, which ensures that you'll always find someone to play with.
• It has a competitive ranking system that allows players to track their progress and compete with others.
• The game receives regular updates and new content, keeping it fresh and exciting.

Disadvantages:

• The game can be challenging to learn for new players, and the community can be toxic at times.
• The game requires a lot of time and effort to master, which may not be ideal for casual players.

2. Fortnite

Fortnite is a battle royale game that has taken the gaming world by storm. It has a unique building system that allows players to create structures to protect themselves and gain an advantage over their opponents. The game is free to play, but players can purchase in-game items with real money. The objective of the game is to be the last player standing.

Advantages:

• The game is accessible and easy to learn, making it perfect for casual players.
• The game has a unique building system that adds a new layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Disadvantages:

• The game can be very competitive, which may not be ideal for casual players.
• The game's building system can be challenging to master, and players who don't build efficiently may be at a disadvantage.

3. World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has been around for over 15 years. It has a vast open world and a rich lore that has captivated players for years. The game requires a monthly subscription, but players can also purchase in-game items with real money. The objective of the game is to level up your character and complete quests.

Advantages:

• The game has a vast open world and a rich lore that offers endless hours of exploration and adventure.
• The game has a robust community that offers support and camaraderie.
• The game receives regular updates and new content, keeping it fresh and exciting.

Disadvantages:

• The game requires a monthly subscription, which may not be feasible for all players.
• The game can be time-consuming, and players may have to invest a significant amount of time to progress.

4. Among Us

Among Us is a multiplayer social deduction game that has become a cultural phenomenon. It has a simple premise, but it requires strategic thinking and deception to win. The game is free to play on mobile devices, and players can also purchase it on PC. The objective of the game is to identify and eliminate the imposters among the crew before they sabotage the ship.

Advantages:

• The game is easy to learn and can be played with friends or strangers.
• The game is accessible, and it doesn't require high-end hardware to run.
• The game's social deduction mechanics make it engaging and exciting.

Disadvantages:

• The game can get repetitive after a while, and the lack of new content may drive players away.

5. Apex Legends

Apex Legends is a battle royale game that has gained a loyal following since its release in 2019. It has a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique abilities. The game is free to play, but players can purchase in-game items with real money. The objective of the game is to be the last team standing.

Advantages:

• The game has a diverse cast of characters that offer different playstyles, making the game accessible to players with varying skill levels.
• The game has a fast-paced gameplay that rewards strategic thinking and teamwork.
• The game receives regular updates and new content, keeping it fresh and exciting.

Disadvantages:

• The game's reliance on RNG (random number generator) can lead to frustrating situations.

6. Minecraft

Minecraft is a sandbox game that has been around for over a decade. It has a vast open world and a creative mode that allows players to build whatever they want. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, console, and mobile devices. The objective of the game is to survive and thrive in the world.

Advantages:

• The game has a vast open world and a creative mode that allows players to express their creativity.
• The game is family-friendly and can be enjoyed by players of all ages.
• The game has a dedicated modding community that adds new content and extends the game's lifespan.

Disadvantages:

• The game's graphics may not appeal to all players, and it may require a powerful system to run smoothly.
• The game's survival mode can be challenging and may not be ideal for casual players.

7. Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 is a team-based first-person shooter that has a diverse cast of heroes, each with their own unique abilities. The game has a competitive mode that allows players to track their progress and compete with others. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, console, and mobile devices.

Advantages:

• The game has a diverse cast of heroes that offer different playstyles, making the game accessible to players with varying skill levels.
• The game has a fast-paced gameplay that rewards strategic thinking and teamwork.
• The game's competitive mode offers a sense of progression and achievement.

Disadvantages:

• The game's reliance on team-based gameplay may not be appealing to players who prefer solo play.

8. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that has gained a loyal following since its release in 2016. It has a charming pixel art style and a relaxing gameplay that allows players to unwind and destress. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, console, and mobile devices. The objective of the game is to build and maintain a farm while interacting with the community.

Advantages:

• The game has a charming pixel art style that adds to its overall relaxing and enjoyable experience.
• The game has a robust crafting and resource management system that adds to the gameplay's depth.

Disadvantages:

• The game's slow-paced gameplay may not be ideal for players who prefer fast-paced action.
• The game's focus on resource management and farming may not appeal to all players.

9. The Elder Scrolls Online

The Elder Scrolls Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the Elder Scrolls universe. The game has a vast open world that players can explore and a deep and engaging storyline that immerses players in the world. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, console, and mobile devices.

Advantages:

• The game has a vast open world that players can explore, offering hours of gameplay.
• The game has a deep and engaging storyline that immerses players in the world.
• The game has a dedicated community that adds to the game's overall experience.

Disadvantages:

• The game may require a powerful system to run smoothly.
• The game's subscription model and in-game store may not appeal to all players.

10. Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is a free-to-play action role-playing game developed and published by miHoYo. The game was released in September 2020 and is available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. Genshin Impact takes place in the fictional world of Teyvat and offers a vast open world for players to explore.

Advantages:

• The game features a vast and immersive open world that is rich in detail and offers hours of exploration.
• The game's story and characters are engaging, with each character having a unique personality and backstory.
• The game's combat system is fast-paced and action-packed, offering a wide range of abilities and weapons to use.

Disadvantages:

• The game's gacha system can be frustrating for players who want to obtain specific characters or weapons but have to rely on chance.
• The game's multiplayer system is limited, with players only able to join other players who are on their friends list.
• The game's stamina system can be limiting, requiring players to take breaks between activities.

Conclusion

Online gaming has become a massive industry, and there are many excellent games to choose from. The ten games listed above offer something for everyone, whether you prefer fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, or relaxed simulations.

Each game has its unique strengths and weaknesses, and it's up to you to decide which one best suits your preferences. So gather some friends, fire up your favorite game, and enjoy the countless hours of entertainment that online gaming has to offer.