The glow of Christmas lights, the scent of hot choccies, and of course, video games. Continuing from Part 1 of our countdown, here are the top 10 Christmas-themed video games of all time. Whether it’s through snowy levels, festive side quests, or fully holiday-themed stories, these titles are bound to enhance your Christmas gaming experience.
10. Banjo-Kazooie – Freezeezy Peak
Sliding into the top 10 is Banjo-Kazooie with its unforgettable winter-themed level, Freezeezy Peak. This icy wonderland is a playground of snowmen, presents, and holiday cheer. From helping Boggy the polar bear recover after a Christmas feast gone wrong to racing down slopes on sleds, Freezeezy Peak is a charming reminder of why this classic platformer deserves its iconic status.
9. Shenmue – Christmas in Dobuita
While Shenmue isn’t a Christmas game, its inclusion of the holiday season is unforgettable. The streets of Dobuita transform with Christmas lights, festive music, and Santa Claus wandering the streets. The game’s attention to detail makes the season feel authentic, immersing players in the spirit of an old-fashioned Japanese Christmas.
8. LittleBigPlanet 2 – The Winter Wonderland Levels
LittleBigPlanet 2 gave us the tools to craft our own holiday magic. Its Winter Wonderland levels are a celebration of creativity, featuring snowy landscapes, twinkling lights, and festive puzzles. For those who enjoy crafting their own Christmas stories, this game was a holiday treasure trove.
7. Kingdom Hearts – Halloween Town Christmas
Who can forget the magical blend of The Nightmare Before Christmas and Kingdom Hearts? Revisiting Halloween Town during its Christmastime transformation is unforgettable. Jack Skellington’s enthusiasm for Christmas turns the spooky realm into a festive yet eerie celebration. The snow-covered environments and Christmas decorations make it a standout moment in the beloved series.
6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Mount Wario
While Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t specifically a Christmas game, the Mount Wario track channels wintery, holiday vibes with its snowy slopes and festive atmosphere. Racing against friends and family down this adrenaline-packed mountain feels perfectly seasonal, especially with a Christmas tree glowing in the background.
5.Yakuza Kiwami
The Yakuza series often features storylines set around Christmas, and Yakuza Kiwami is no exception. The game’s setting during the holiday season is evident through festive decorations and a snowy Kamurocho. The holiday backdrop adds a layer of charm to the game’s intense narrative and action-packed sequences.
4. Bayonetta 2
Bayonetta 2 opens with a festive bang, as the titular character engages in a high-octane battle amidst Christmas shopping. The game’s prologue is set during the holiday season, with decorations and a festive atmosphere providing a unique backdrop to the action. This blend of holiday cheer and intense gameplay offers a memorable experience for players.
3. Parasite Eve
Set in New York City during Christmas, Parasite Eve combines survival horror with RPG elements. The game’s opening scene takes place at a Christmas Eve opera, leading to a series of events that blend holiday settings with a gripping narrative. The juxtaposition of festive environments and suspenseful gameplay creates a unique atmosphere.
2. Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Set during the holiday season, Spider-Man: Miles Morales showcases a snow-blanketed New York City adorned with Christmas decorations. The game’s narrative unfolds as Miles navigates his responsibilities as Spider-Man amidst the festive backdrop, with holiday-themed side missions and events enhancing the seasonal atmosphere. The game’s visuals and storytelling effectively capture the spirit of Christmas in the bustling metropolis.
1. Batman: Arkham Origins
Set against the backdrop of a snow-covered Gotham City on Christmas Eve, Batman: Arkham Origins immerses players in a festive yet perilous environment. The game’s narrative unfolds as Batman faces off against eight assassins hired by the crime lord Black Mask. The holiday setting enhances the atmospheric tension, blending the joy of Christmas with the dark undertones of Gotham’s underworld.
I mean did anyone REALLY doubt that I would put Batman in the number 1 spot?
And there you have it, the top 20 Christmas-themed video games of all time! From snowy mountains to festive malls, these games offer a variety of holiday experiences. With my tree lighting up the living room since November 1st, you’d better believe I’ll be revisiting a few of these classics to make this season even more magical. So grab your controller, pour some eggnog, and let the holiday gaming begin!