AtanariaAs the festive season rolls in, the air is filled with the smell of gingerbread cookies, the glow of twinkling lights, and the excitement of cozying up with some amazing games. Whether you’re sipping on hot cocoa or bundled up under a blanket, there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than diving into games that radiate Christmas cheer. This Christmas, we’ve handpicked five standout titles that blend thrilling gameplay with festive magic, from superhero action to nostalgic nods to beloved holiday movies. Let’s unwrap this list and get to the good stuff!
1. Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Swinging through a snow-covered Harlem in New York City, Spider-Man: Miles Morales feels like stepping into a living Christmas card. The game’s story unfolds during the Christmas holidays, with festive decorations lighting up the streets, snowflakes dancing in the air, and warm holiday vibes enveloping the bustling city.
Why it’s a great Christmas setting: The story is a perfect mix of heart and heroics, showcasing Miles’ journey of self-discovery while celebrating the importance of family and community. Whether you’re solving neighborhood disputes or battling villains like the Tinkerer, the holiday backdrop adds a magical touch to every web-slinging moment. Plus, the visuals are so stunning, you’ll want to pause just to soak in the festive skyline.
2. Batman: Arkham City
Platform: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC
While Gotham may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, its frosty streets and eerie ambiance make Arkham City a surprisingly fitting choice for the season. Though the game doesn’t explicitly center around Christmas, the icy environments and snow-laden streets make it feel like a dark, wintry wonderland.
Why it’s a great Christmas setting: The stark contrast between Batman’s intense mission and the serene snowfall creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Gotham’s cold, desolate beauty is the perfect setting for the Caped Crusader’s brooding adventure. Add in cerebral puzzles, heart-pounding combat, and a sprawling open world, and you’ve got the ultimate chilly thrill to keep you captivated through the long winter nights.
3. Dead Rising 4
Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Get ready for some zombie-slaying holiday cheer with Dead Rising 4. Set in the festive town of Willamette, Colorado, this game features a snow-covered mall teeming with holiday-themed zombies. You play as photojournalist Frank West, battling the undead while enjoying the ridiculous arsenal of holiday-inspired weapons.
Why it’s a great Christmas setting: The game is a chaotic celebration of the holidays, blending over-the-top humor with gory zombie action. From using candy-cane crossbows to battling undead Santas, the holiday atmosphere adds a layer of fun and absurdity. It’s the perfect mix of festive and frenzied to keep your spirits bright and adrenaline pumping.
4. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
Platform: NES, SNES, Game Boy
If you’re feeling nostalgic this holiday season, look no further than Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Based on the beloved Christmas classic, this charming retro game lets you step into the shoes of Kevin McCallister as he outwits bumbling burglars and explores iconic NYC locations like the Plaza Hotel and Central Park.
Why it’s a great Christmas setting: The pixel-art graphics and playful soundtrack capture the whimsy of the holidays, making it a delightful way to relive the movie’s magic. It’s not just a game—it’s a trip down memory lane, perfect for players of all ages. Whether you’re dodging hotel staff or setting traps for the Wet Bandits, you’ll be grinning ear to ear as Kevin gets the last laugh.
5. Die Hard Trilogy
Platform: PlayStation, Sega Saturn, PC
Yippee-ki-yay, holiday gamers! The Die Hard Trilogy is the perfect blend of Christmas chaos and action-packed fun. Featuring three distinct gameplay modes—a third-person shooter, an arcade-style light-gun game, and a driving sequence—this classic title immerses you in the iconic Nakatomi Plaza during Christmas Eve.
Why it’s a great Christmas setting: While it might not be your typical “Merry Christmas” story, Die Hard has become a holiday tradition for many. The festive backdrop, coupled with adrenaline-fueled action, creates a thrilling mix of nostalgia and excitement. Whether you’re blasting baddies or speeding through explosions, this game keeps the holiday spirit… unconventional yet undeniably entertaining.
Will You Be Gaming For Christmas?
From swinging through snowy skylines to battling holiday-themed zombies, these five games bring Christmas spirit in their own special ways. Whether you’re looking for heartfelt storytelling, retro nostalgia, or over-the-top action, there’s something here to make your holiday gaming sessions merry and bright. So, grab a controller, deck the halls, and let these festive adventures warm your heart and light up your screen. Happy gaming, and happy holidays!
