This past year has been a big one for video games. While the biggest studios have given us excellent games in Baldur's Gate 3, Alan Wake II, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Canada has had many developers drop some great ones.
Some are more popular, others are indie darlings, but it's safe to say Canada has held its reputation as a hotspot for video game development.
Here's Complex Canada's ranking of the five best video games to come out of Canada in 2023.
5. Tchia
Developer: Awaceb
Available on: Windows, PS4, PS5
Developed by Montreal-via-Bordeaux, France studio Awaceb, Tchia follows the titular protagonist as she travels an archipelago influenced by New Caledonia to search for her kidnapped father.
Given its heavy emphasis on exploration, the team created an eye-catching location and intricate traversal that echoes the aforementioned Zelda game. It's a sweet, wonderous game that is highly rewarding if you're keen on discovering the world around you.
Tchia was also named winner of the Games For Impact category at the 2023 Game Awards.
4. Sons of the Forest
Developer: Endnight Games
Available on: Windows
Vancouver-based Endnight Games' Sons of the Forest may be in early access right now, but its intense survival aspects make it worthy of playing alongside your friends. It's a sequel to 2014's The Forest and ups the ante in nearly every way.
There are new crafting and building systems, allowing for more comprehensive fabrications. Its barebones, realistic style may be stressful, but when you've carved out a good campsite, you'll be left wanting more.
Although it's mainly relegated to PC at the time of writing, it could also make its way to consoles after its release, like its predecessor.
3. Jusant
Developer: Don't Nod
Available on: Windows, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Canadian developers seem to love exploration platformers and Jusant, developed by Paris and Montreal-based Don't Nod, isn't different. Separated by unique biomes with their own traversal mechanics, players can climb mountains and walk through plains as they contemplate their thoughts behind the game's meditative soundtrack.
Its colourful art style is pretty to look at, and its whimsical feel will spark some thoughts into its player base, as it's more than just a walking simulator.
Jusant is available on PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and Windows, and users of the latter two can enjoy it on Game Pass.
2. Sea of Stars
Developer: Sabotage Studio
Available on: Windows, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Gamers who grew up on the old Final Fantasy games or even Chrono Trigger will certainly find themselves attached to Sea of Stars, the second game from Quebec City studio Sabotage.
Even if its story isn't much to write home about, its deep gameplay with the classic turn-based JRPG structure is more challenging and requires thinking ahead to make the most of each fight.
Sea of Stars is available on Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
1. Dead Space (2023)
Developer: Motive Studio
Available on: Windows, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
It may be a little unfair to rank a previously released game as the best one to come out of Canada this year, but the Dead Space remake is a must-play in 2023. The original version in 2008 was already a terrifying experience, but revisiting it today, its age shows.
The new version doubles down on the horror effects and its level design should bring fear into any gamer's heart. Much like other survival horror games, you'll need to take extra care of your health, make good use of your ammo, and ensure you've got your eyes peeled at all times to make sure nothing catches you by surprise.
The Dead Space remake doubles down on the formula that made it a revolutionary game 15 years ago and packages it into something that will stand the test of time for years to come. Newcomers and veterans of the Dead Space franchise have much to gain when stepping into the shoes of Isaac Clarke and venturing into the Kellion.
