This list, if it was up to only Ciaran, would probably just be ‘Explosion Network’s Top 5 Performances From Baldur’s Gate,’ however, I am happy to say that there are more than a couple of games represented on this list.

Here are our picks for the Best performances in Video Games from 2023.

5. Samantha Béart as Karlach (Baldur’s Gate 3)

Throughout the lengthy early access for Baldur’s Gate 3 players have been given the opportunity to get to know many of the cast of companions prior to the full release in 2023, Karlach was added with this full release, fitting into Wyll’s story but then forging her own path throughout the game. Samantha Béart brought Karlach to life in such a way that quickly enamoured players with the new companion. Exploring the character’s past as well as working through the problem of her infernal engine leads to Samantha exploring not only the fiery spirit of the character but also the gentleness that makes Karlach a common member of the adventuring party.

– Ciaran

4. Nadji Jeter as Spider-Man (Marvel’s Spider-Man 2)

While Yuri Lowenthal’s Peter Parker has a more obvious arc over the course of the game as he deals with the symbiote, it is Nadji Jeter’s performance as Miles Morales that had the more lasting impression. Watching Miles deal with his feelings of revenge against Martin Li and him eventually coming to peace with them was really special to experience. While Peter descended into darkness, Miles was the wisecracking hopeful Spider-Man that fans have loved since Amazing Fantasy 15. storylines like the Cultural Museum and his relationships with Ganke, Hailey and his mom showcase what makes Miles an important character. In a year where Miles was fantastic on the big screen, Jeter ensured that Miles was also great on Playstations the world over as well.

– Ashley

3. Melanie Liburd as Saga Anderson (Alan Wake 2)

Introducing a dual narrative in a sequel can lead to mixed results. But Saga is, at least in my mind, the actual lead of Alan Wake 2. Although Alan’s story continues to be interesting, Saga’s is where you invest the most emotion. The final time you visit her mind palace in the game is a key pin-point in this performance from Melanie Liburd, who has had her case more than swallow her up but also been left wondering what’s fact and fiction. By the end of the game, you’re left wondering about Saga’s family and her place in the future of the Remedy-verse, and I’m more than happy to see Liburd return as Saga in the future. 

– Dylan

2. Jennifer English as Shadowheart (Baldur’s Gate 3)

Being one of the original companions, many players believed to have a good understanding of Shadowheart, but along with the added Acts, Jennifer English brought Shadowheart’s struggles to the forefront of many playthroughs. Witnessing the character slowly come to terms with her amnesia and relationship with the Goddess Shar gives plenty for Jennifer to explore within the single character. With many choices throughout Baldur’s Gate 3 leading to very different developments for Shadowheart, it is a joy to see how Jennifer brings the nuance for each choice to life and makes it very hard not to be drawn to Shadowheart each time I start a new playthrough.

– Ciaran

1. Neil Newbon as Astarian (Baldur’s Gate 3)

It is fair to say that the breakout character of 2023 was Astarian. I don’t think I’ve ever seen people thirst after a video game character the way that they have with him, with the horny fanart and the t-shirts of him plastered with phrases like “I can fix him” or “Girl-Dinner”. While Astarian is a charismatic figure, it is with his dark backstory that Newborn get to showcase the character’s depth, as a vampire spawn who has been the subject of years of abuse with newfound freedom. Ultimately, Neil Newborn instils Astarian with so much charm, that it has you questioning if you really do need all the blood in your body. Letting him suck a little out wouldn’t be so bad…

– Ashley