With the holiday season in full swing and my Christmas tree twinkling since November 1st (yes, I’m that person), it’s the perfect time to immerse ourselves in video games that capture the festive spirit. Whether through entire narratives or memorable Christmas-themed levels, these games offer a delightful blend of holiday cheer and engaging gameplay. Here’s the first part of our countdown, featuring games ranked from 20 to 11.
Worth noting these games will not only be scored on quality… but how close to christmas they just so happen to be! So don’t be alarmed when you see a top tier game in the high teens
20. Daze Before Christmas
Starting our list is Daze Before Christmas, a platformer where you play as Santa Claus on a mission to rescue his kidnapped elves and reindeer. The game features charming graphics and festive music, embodying the holiday spirit. While it may not be widely known, its unique premise and seasonal theme make it a delightful play during the holidays.
19. The Sims 4 – Seasons Expansion
With the Seasons expansion, The Sims 4 transforms into a year-round celebration, and Winterfest is the highlight. Players can decorate their homes, open presents, and even receive a visit from Father Winter. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season, even if your Sims end up burning the holiday dinner.
18. Dead Rising 4
There’s no Christmas quite like one spent fending off zombies. Dead Rising 4 leans fully into its holiday setting, decking the Willamette Mall with garlands, lights, and snow. Players can wield candy-cane weapons and dress as Santa Claus while battling hordes of undead. The chaotic combination of festive cheer and zombie mayhem makes it a must-play during the holidays.
17. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Snowy Exploration
Few games capture the beauty of snow-covered landscapes like Skyrim. While not explicitly Christmas-themed, wandering the frosty expanses of this epic RPG feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. From its northern lights to its festive mods (complete with Christmas trees and Santa hats), Skyrim embodies the magic of the season.
16. Hitman: Blood Money – “You Better Watch Out…”
In this memorable mission, Agent 47 infiltrates a Christmas party at a luxurious mansion. The festive decorations and holiday ambiance contrast sharply with the game’s stealth mechanics and assassination objectives. Players can even don a Santa Claus disguise, adding a darkly humorous twist to the holiday-themed assassination.
15. Saints Row IV – “How the Saints Saved Christmas”
This DLC for Saints Row IV presents a quirky and action-packed holiday adventure. The Saints embark on a mission to rescue Santa Claus from a simulation gone awry, battling enemies with festive-themed weapons and encountering holiday-inspired characters. The DLC blends the series’ signature over-the-top action with a humorous take on Christmas traditions.
14. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask – Snowhead
Midway through the first 10 we haveThe Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask with its stunning Snowhead region. This icy mountain area not only challenges players with clever puzzles but also captures the tranquil beauty of winter. Its hauntingly beautiful music and frosty landscapes evoke a contemplative mood, making it a standout experience for the holiday season.
13. Overwatch – Winter Wonderland Event
Blizzard’s popular team-based shooter, Overwatch, celebrates the holiday season with its annual Winter Wonderland event. This limited-time event introduces festive game modes, holiday-themed skins for characters, and a snowy makeover for select maps. Players can engage in unique holiday brawls and collect seasonal cosmetics, adding a festive flair to the game’s dynamic gameplay.
12. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Toy Day
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Toy Day is the in-game equivalent of Christmas, celebrated on December 24th. Players can participate in festive activities, deliver presents to villagers, and enjoy a beautifully decorated island. The event captures the joy of the holiday season, making it a heartwarming experience for players.
11. Celeste
At first glance, Celeste might not scream Christmas, but its snow-covered mountains and themes of personal growth make it a perfect winter companion. The game’s challenging platforming combined with its heartwarming story feels as comforting as a holiday classic. Its quiet moments of reflection mirror the serenity of the season.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll continue our countdown and explore the top 10 Christmas-themed video games that bring holiday cheer to the gaming world.