Runner-up: Dave The Diver, Shotgun King: The Final Checkmate

Best Switch Icon 2023

Winner: Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

When it comes to the best Switch icon of 2023, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater takes the crown for its incredibly satisfying arrangement on the Switch’s dashboard. The color usage in the icon design is just gorgeous and sets it apart from the rest of the competition. Although other icons illustrated by Kojima Production’s concept artist Yoji Shinkawa were strong contenders, Snake Eater ultimately stood out.

Runners-up: Venba, Quake II

Best ‘End-Of-Year Arrival That Dropped Too Late To Make Our GOTY List’ 2023

Winner: Outer Wilds

After finally being released on the Nintendo Switch, Outer Wilds earned a solid score of 9/10 in our review. Even though it came too late for consideration in our top games of the year list, it has made a big impression, and we’re looking forward to diving into it over the holidays. Rest assured, our resident expert Jim loves it!

Runner-up: Dodonpachi DaiOuJou Blissful Death Re:Incarnation

Best Retro Remaster Or Re-Release 2023

Winner: The Making of Karateka

The Making of Karateka by Digital Eclipse is a remarkable achievement in retro remastering, providing both veterans and newcomers a chance to not only experience Karateka but also to understand the game’s creation process. This release is part of Digital Eclipse’s ‘Gold Master Series’, which will continue in 2024 with Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story.

Runners-up: Quake II, Super Mario RPG

Best Worst Best Worst Game 2023

Winner: Vampire Survivors

Vampire Survivors takes the crown in this category for being a time-consuming, addictive game that has hurt many sleep patterns. While it has its admirers among the Nintendo Life team, it’s undeniable that this game is a serious time sink on the Switch. It’s a love-hate relationship, with players finding themselves losing hours to this captivating title.

Who’s shining that accursed light through our curtains?! Oh, it’s the sun. *hisses*