Top Video Games of 2023: A Year in Review
As the year draws to a close, the gaming community reflects on the standout titles that have defined the past twelve months. Beyond the main Game of the Year Awards 2023, individual members of the gaming press have taken the opportunity to highlight personal favorites that resonated with them on a deeper level. These personal picks, though perhaps less recognized, have made a significant impact on those who played them, offering unique experiences that have enriched the gaming landscape.
- Baldur’s Gate 3
- Starfield
- Alan Wake 2
Financial times
Immersing players in the high-stakes world of stock trading, Stonks-9800: Stock Market Simulator is a text-based game that simulates the experience of wheeling and dealing on the stock market. Set in the economically booming Japan of the 1980s, players are tasked with navigating the bullish markets to turn a modest sum into a vast fortune. The game’s interface, reminiscent of the classic PC-9800 computer, adds to the authenticity of the experience, while the vibrant neon UI changes with the seasons, and a lively city-pop soundtrack keeps the mood upbeat.
| Fictional Company | Real-World Counterpart |
|---|---|
| Komami | Konami |
| Panasenic | Panasonic |
| Kanon | Canon |
Greed for life
Life Beyond the Stock Market: Activities in Stonks-9800
The life simulation aspects of Stonks-9800 add depth to the stock trading gameplay, allowing players to engage in various activities outside the stock market. Players can visit bars to gather stock tips, enjoy a round of pachinko, bet on horse races, and even manage their own corporation following a major update. These activities not only provide a break from the numbers but also contribute to the player’s overall success in the game.
Central to the game’s charm is Amy, the player’s assistant, whose relationship with the player adds a personal dimension to the gameplay. Building a friendship with Amy through smart decision-making, ethical behavior, and engaging conversations can lead to shared moments, such as walks to admire the Tokyo skyline at sunset. While the interactions with Amy remain light-hearted, they introduce a human element to the otherwise financially driven world of Stonks-9800.
Unique Appeal of Stonks-9800
In a year dominated by gaming behemoths, Stonks-9800 stands out with its unique charm and engaging gameplay. While titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Starfield boast expansive worlds and intricate narratives, it’s the neon-slick, stock-flipping allure of Stonks-9800 that has captured the hearts of many. The game’s ability to blend finance with fun, and even a touch of risk with its prison for finance crimes scenario, showcases the diverse experiences that video games can offer. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most captivating games are those that turn the mundane into the extraordinary, making Stonks-9800 a memorable highlight in a year of gaming giants.
