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7 Games That Launched in the Same Year as GTA 5

The Most Memorable Games of 2013 That Deserve Recognition

2013 was a significant year for video games, with many successful launches that left a mark on the industry. However, one game, Grand Theft Auto 5, tends to overshadow the others. In this article, we’ll highlight seven iconic games from 2013 that are worth remembering alongside GTA 5.

The Last of Us (2013)

An in game screenshot of Joel and Ellie from The Last of Us game.
Joel and Ellie quickly became iconic video game characters after the release of The Last of Us. Screenshot via PlayStation on YouTube.

The Last of Us is not only one of the best games of 2013 but also one of the best games of the decade. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the game captivated players with its gripping story, memorable characters, and intense encounters with infected creatures. It stood out from other zombie games of that time, solidifying its status as an iconic title.

Bioshock Infinite

An in game screenshot of the city of Columbia from Bioshock Infinite.
Columbia was the new Rapture in Bioshock Infinite. Screenshot via PlayStation on YouTube.

Bioshock Infinite took players to the airborne city of Columbia, departing from the underwater setting of the previous Bioshock games. The game received critical acclaim for its philosophical themes and engaging gameplay. It tackled topics like religion, racism, and nationalism, offering players a thought-provoking experience.

Pokémon X and Y

An in game screenshot of a Pokémon battle from Pokémon X.
The 3D models were hugely well-received in Pokémon X and Y. Screenshot via Nintendo on YouTube.

Pokémon X and Y marked a significant transition for the franchise, as it fully embraced 3D graphics. The new 3D models and world were highly praised, despite some mixed opinions about the story. The leap to 3D was a major milestone for Pokémon and made X and Y stand out as memorable games of 2013.

Super Mario 3D World

An in game screenshot of Mario with the cat powerup from Super Mario 3D World.
Cat Mario is love, Cat Mario is life. Screenshot via Nintendo on YouTube.

Super Mario 3D World offered a fresh perspective on traditional Mario platforming. The game introduced a 3D isometric view and featured fun power-ups, including the beloved Super Bell power-up that turned Mario and his friends into cats. Despite the Wii U’s poor performance, Super Mario 3D World became a financial and critical success.

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag

An in game screenshot of an assassin looking out onto the water from Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag.
A nautical adventure awaits in Black Flag. Screenshot via Assassin’s Creed on YouTube.

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag combined the stealthy gameplay of an assassin with pirate adventures. The game introduced popular elements like ship gameplay, where players could captain their own pirate ship and explore the West Indies. Black Flag’s success and enduring popularity solidify its position as a classic in the Assassin’s Creed series.

The Stanley Parable

An in game screenshot of the protagonist from The Stanley Parable.
The Stanley Parable has been remembered as an indie classic with a unique concept. Screenshot via PlayStation on YouTube.

The Stanley Parable, an indie gem, stood out from mainstream AAA titles of 2013. It offered a unique and humorous narrative experience, with the player being guided by a witty narrator. The game’s originality and distinct concept garnered it critical acclaim and made it one of the standout games of the year.

Tomb Raider

An in game screenshot of Lara Croft from the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot.
The Tomb Raider reboot introduced a younger, inexperienced Lara. Screenshot via PlayStation on YouTube.

The 2013 Tomb Raider reboot offered a fresh take on the iconic character, Lara Croft. The game explored Lara’s origins and presented her as a more vulnerable and relatable protagonist. Despite its departure from the original games, the reboot garnered praise for its narrative and gameplay mechanics, making it a standout game of 2013.