Top Video Games Released in June 2023: Our Essential Picks
June 2023 is a month that gaming enthusiasts won’t soon forget. With several highly anticipated titles having hit the shelves, gamers are spoiled for choice with new adventures to embark upon. Whether you fancy demon-slaying action, street fighting thrills or fantasy role-playing experiences, the video games released in June 2023 offer something for everyone. Let’s check out the games that made this month spectacular and why – in our humble opinion – they are worth your time and money.
Diablo 4
Released on 6th June, Diablo 4 marks Blizzard Entertainment’s triumphant return to the dark fantasy action RPG genre. The fourth mainline entry in this beloved franchise is Blizzard’s fastest-selling game upon release, and it’s not difficult to see why.
Set in the grim world of Sanctuary, Diablo 4 takes place several decades after the events of Diablo 3. Players are thrust into a world where Lilith, the daughter of Mephisto, has been summoned back to the mortal realm. The dark fantasy action RPG offers five distinct character classes to choose from: Barbarian, Sorcerer, Rogue, Druid and Necromancer.
What sets Diablo 4 apart from its predecessors is its shared open world structure. While previous entries were primarily instance-based, Diablo 4 features a seamless world where you can encounter other players naturally during your adventures. The always-online game experience allows for dynamic world events and impromptu cooperation with fellow adventurers.
The combat remains satisfyingly visceral, with each class offering unique playstyles. From the Barbarian’s brute force to the Necromancer’s macabre minion management, there’s a class to suit every preference. The loot-based progression system that made the series famous returns, with an even greater variety of legendary and unique items to discover.
Diablo 4 also introduces a more nuanced storytelling approach. The narrative unfolds through atmospheric cinematics and environmental storytelling, creating a compelling reason to push forward through the blood-soaked landscapes of Sanctuary.
Street Fighter 6
Capcom delivers another knockout with Street Fighter 6, which was released in early June. This entry rejuvenates the legendary fighting game series with fresh mechanics, an expansive roster and unprecedented accessibility options for newcomers.
Street Fighter 6 introduces the Drive System, a new resource mechanic that replaces the V-System from Street Fighter 5. This fighting game mechanic allows players to perform Drive Parries, Drive Impacts and Drive Rushes, adding new layers of strategy to matches.
The game features three distinct game modes. Fighting Ground encompasses the traditional arcade, versus and training modes. World Tour is a single-player adventure mode where players create their own fighter and explore Metro City. And Battle Hub serves as a virtual arcade where players can gather online to compete.
What truly sets Street Fighter 6 apart is its focus on accessibility. The introduction of modern control schemes alongside the classic input methods means that players of all skill levels can jump in and have fun immediately. Dynamic controls allow newcomers to perform special moves with simplified inputs, while traditional controls maintain the depth veterans expect.
The roster strikes a perfect balance between returning favourites like Ryu, Chun-Li and Ken, and exciting newcomers such as Jamie, Kimberly and Marisa. Each character boasts stunning redesigns and fluid animations that showcase the power of modern gaming hardware.
Final Fantasy XVI
Square Enix’s Final Fantasy XVI was released on 22nd June, bringing a more mature and darker take on the venerable JRPG franchise. This PlayStation 5 exclusive whisks players away to the medieval fantasy realm of Valisthea, a land where politics, war and magical crystals intertwine.
The sixteenth mainline entry represents a significant departure from recent Final Fantasy titles, embracing a medieval fantasy setting with Game of Thrones-like political intrigue. The game follows Clive Rosfield, a once-privileged youth whose life is upended by tragedy, sending him on a path of revenge.
Final Fantasy XVI’s combat system marks another evolution for the series, embracing a fully action-oriented approach. Directed by Ryota Suzuki, the combat designer behind Devil May Cry 5, the real-time action combat feels responsive and impactful. Players can chain together combos, cast elemental magic and even summon powerful beings known as Eikons to unleash devastating attacks.
Speaking of Eikons, these summonable creatures play a central role in both the gameplay and narrative. Not only can Clive harness their powers in regular combat, but the game also features spectacular Eikon-versus-Eikon battles that play out like cinematic set pieces.
The narrative-driven RPG features a compelling cast of characters, each with their own motivations and allegiances. The political machinations of Valisthea’s ruling powers form the backdrop for a personal tale of revenge, redemption and brotherhood.
Other Notable Video Games Released in June 2023
The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom
Released on 5th June, The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom continues the long-running support for ZeniMax Online Studios’ MMORPG. This expansion takes players to Eastern Morrowind and the mysterious Apocrypha realm of Hermaeus Mora.
Necrom introduces the Arcanist class, a versatile spellcaster that harnesses forbidden knowledge. The MMORPG expansion also adds new zone quests, delves, public dungeons and a 12-player trial called Sanity’s Edge. For fans of Elder Scrolls lore, this expansion offers a deep dive into the secretive Telvanni wizards and the cosmic horrors of Oblivion.
System Shock Remake
After a lengthy development period, the System Shock Remake finally arrived on 30th May 2023, with console versions having followed in June (which is why we’ve included it in this article on the video games released in June 2023). This reimagining of the 1994 classic stays true to the original while modernising the gameplay and visuals.
The remake preserves the spine-chilling atmosphere of Citadel Station, where players face off against the malevolent AI known as SHODAN. With improved immersive sim gameplay, the System Shock Remake offers multiple ways to approach challenges, whether through combat, stealth or hacking.
Crash Team Rumble
Toys for Bob delivers a fresh take on the Crash Bandicoot franchise with Crash Team Rumble, released on 20th June 2023. This 4v4 multiplayer game combines elements of capture the flag, MOBAs and platformers into a unique competitive experience.
Players select from iconic Crash Bandicoot characters, each with unique abilities, and compete to collect the most Wumpa fruit while preventing the opposing team from doing the same. The team-based multiplayer game encourages cooperation and strategy, with different character roles complementing each other.
Exoprimal
Capcom’s Exoprimal will launch fully on 14th July (with early access having begun in late June, hence this title’s place on our list of notable video games released in June 2023). This team-based action game pits squads of powered exosuit-wearing soldiers against hordes of dinosaurs in frenetic PvE and PvP matches.
Players choose from different exosuit classes with distinct abilities and functions, from the tank-like Roadblock to the damage-dealing Deadeye. The cooperative shooter features a variety of game modes where teams must complete objectives while battling prehistoric threats and sometimes opposing teams.
AEW: Fight Forever
Wrestling fans receive a new contender in the ring with AEW: Fight Forever, released on 29th June. Developed by Yuke’s, the team behind many WWE games, this title brings the high-flying action of All Elite Wrestling to gaming platforms.
The game embraces an arcade-like approach to wrestling gameplay, with simplified controls and fast-paced matches. Fight Forever features a roster of AEW stars including Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks and Dr. Britt Baker, each with signature moves and entrance sequences.
Indie Gems of June 2023
Dave the Diver
One of the surprise hits of the month is Dave the Diver, which entered early access on 28th June 2023. This unique blend of diving simulation, restaurant management and RPG elements captivates players with its charming pixel art and addictive gameplay loop.
By day, players explore the mysterious Blue Hole, diving for ingredients and treasures while avoiding (or hunting) dangerous sea creatures. By night, they run a sushi restaurant, serving up their catches to demanding customers. The indie roguelike adventure offers a relaxing yet engaging experience with a surprisingly heartfelt story.
Aliens: Dark Descent
Focus Entertainment and Tindalos Interactive deliver a fresh take on the Alien franchise with Aliens: Dark Descent, released on 20th June 2023. This real-time tactical game puts players in command of a squad of Colonial Marines facing xenomorph threats.
The game combines elements of XCOM and Alien Isolation, requiring strategic thinking and resource management. The sci-fi horror strategy game features permadeath for squad members, making each mission tense and consequential.
Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life
Marvelous releases a remake of the beloved farming sim with Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life on 27th June. This updated version brings the GameCube classic to modern platforms with enhanced visuals and quality-of-life improvements.
The farming simulation game maintains the unique life-span progression of the original, allowing players to experience their character’s entire life from young adulthood to old age. Players cultivate crops, raise animals, form relationships and eventually raise a child who grows up with their own personality influenced by the player’s actions. This is one of the most fun video games released in June 2023 in our opinion.
Dordogne
Released on 13th June, Dordogne is a narrative adventure game that stands out with its gorgeous watercolour visuals. This indie gem follows Mimi, a woman revisiting her deceased grandmother’s house in the Dordogne region of France.
Through exploring the house and completing various activities, players uncover memories of Mimi’s childhood summers spent with her grandmother. The narrative adventure game weaves a touching story about family, memories and growing up that resonates with players seeking emotional storytelling.
Technical Achievements and Innovation
The next-gen gaming experiences showcased in June 2023’s releases demonstrate how developers are increasingly comfortable with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S hardware. Diablo 4 maintains a smooth 60fps even during chaotic combat scenarios filled with demons and spell effects. Street Fighter 6’s character models and animations set a new standard for fighting games, with detailed facial expressions and cloth physics.
Final Fantasy XVI pushes the envelope further with its seamless transitions between regular gameplay and spectacular Eikon battles. The game’s high-fidelity graphics showcase what is possible when developers focus exclusively on current-gen hardware rather than cross-generational development.
Even indie titles impress with technical innovation. Dave the Diver’s seemingly simple pixel art conceals complex lighting systems that create a realistic underwater atmosphere, while Dordogne’s watercolour art style is achieved through unique rendering techniques that maintain the hand-painted look while allowing for 3D exploration.
Reception and Impact
The major releases of June 2023 are met with predominantly positive reception from both critics and players. Diablo 4 receives praise for its dark atmosphere, engaging combat and shared world elements, though some criticise the live service game model and endgame progression. The game’s successful launch helps Blizzard recover from previous controversies and establishes a solid foundation for future seasons and expansions.
Street Fighter 6 is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the long-running series, with critics highlighting the expanded single-player content and accessibility options. The game revitalises interest in the competitive fighting game scene, with tournament participation reaching new heights.
Final Fantasy XVI divides opinion somewhat, with praise for its action-oriented combat and mature storytelling but criticism for its more linear structure compared to previous entries. Nevertheless, it sells well and further cements Square Enix’s willingness to experiment with the franchise formula.
Indie standouts like Dave the Diver demonstrate how smaller studios can compete with AAA releases through innovative gameplay and distinctive art styles. The game’s blend of genres creates a unique experience that can’t be found elsewhere.
The Future Looks Bright
The June 2023 game releases set a high bar for what follows in the coming months. Diablo 4 promises a robust post-launch roadmap, including seasonal content, world events and expansions. Blizzard’s commitment to regular updates suggests the game will evolve significantly over time, addressing community feedback and adding new challenges.
Street Fighter 6 lays the groundwork for a thriving competitive scene, with Capcom announcing plans for a comprehensive tournament circuit and regular character additions. The game’s solid netcode and accessible design position it well for long-term success in both casual and competitive spaces.
Final Fantasy XVI demonstrates Square Enix’s willingness to push the franchise in bold new directions. While no DLC is announced at launch, the game’s critical and commercial success suggests the company will continue exploring action-oriented combat and mature storytelling in future installments.
Rounding Up the Best Video Games Released in June 2023
June 2023 stands as a remarkable month in gaming history, delivering several titles that set new standards for their respective genres. From the dark fantasy realms of Diablo 4 to the competitive arenas of Street Fighter 6 and the political intrigue of Final Fantasy XVI, players are being treated to exceptional experiences across the gaming spectrum.
The month also demonstrated the healthy diversity of the industry, with indie gems like Dave the Diver finding success alongside AAA blockbusters. The video game industry trends visible in these releases – from live service elements to accessibility features and narrative sophistication – shape how games are designed and played today.
Whether you’re diving into these titles at launch or planning to pick them up in the coming weeks, these video games released in June 2023 represent worthwhile investments of your time and money. Each offers distinctive experiences that showcase the creative heights the medium can achieve when talented developers are given the resources and freedom to realise their visions.
Have you played any of these games? Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
