Top Pets and Animals in Video Games of 2023: The Ultimate List
2023 has been an incredible year for gamers, and we’ve been introduced a plethora of unforgettable furry companions in our virtual adventures. In this article, we take a closer look at 2023’s best pets and animals in video games, highlighting their strengths, abilities, and lovable quirks, while also comparing them to their precursors in earlier games. Let’s dive in!
1. The Dog/Wolf in Resident Evil 4
Fierce and courageous, the dog (or wolf) in Resident Evil 4 captured our hearts this year. Encountered near the village elder’s home, it reappears just when you need it the most, distracting El Gigante and allowing you to deliver the finishing blow. This canine’s cameo reminds us of Mabari from the Dragon Age series, coming to our rescue in the nick of time.
2. Torgal from Final Fantasy XVI
Torgal, Clive’s loyal canine companion, adds more depth to the protagonist’s story in Final Fantasy XVI. As Clive grows, so does Torgal, evolving from a pet into a formidable party member. Torgal displays qualities reminiscent of Angelo from Final Fantasy VIII, with its ability to attack opponents, engage in combo hits, and earn loyalty achievements.
3. The Handler’s Dog in Remnant 2
The Handler’s dog wins us over in Remnant 2, serving as a helpful partner in a solo-friendly gameplay. This companion’s unique, intuitive AI abilities parallel those of Dogmeat in the Fallout series, wrapping warm and fuzzy feelings in a mysterious, post-apocalyptic package.
4. The Developers’ Cats in The Talos Principle 2
Croteam’s touching tribute to their feline pets in The Talos Principle 2 mirrored the emotional impact of finding feline friend Navi in Gears 5. The developers immortalized their real-life cats, exploring the game’s theme of machines seeking humanity. The Cat Memorial in New Jerusalem, for instance, is sure to give cat lovers the feels.
5. Spring the Cat in Lies of P
Spring the Cat, a complex character found in Lies of P, draws parallels to the contextual relationship development with Trico in The Last Guardian. The cat’s opinion of your character shifts based on your choices throughout the game, making Spring the Cat a deeply immersive experience.
6. Homer and Cat Familiars in Forspoken
Frey’s adventure in Forspoken features a magical menagerie of feline friends, including her beloved cat, Homer, and other cat familiar companions. Think of Elizabeth’s role in Bioshock Infinite, but with a clowder of quirky cats guiding the way.
From saving the day to touching our hearts, these pets and animals have truly left an indelible mark in the gaming world this year. Developers’ inspiration often stems from their personal experiences, resulting in these unforgettable video game companions. As we continue to explore pixelated landscapes and immerse ourselves in virtual worlds, we’ll keep seeking out and cherishing these heartwarming, four-legged relations.
Forspoken, the upcoming action role-playing game from Square Enix and Luminous Productions, takes place in a fantastical world filled with magic and mythical creatures. Among them are Frey’s trusty cat familiars, who not only provide adorable companionship but also play a crucial role in her journey.
In this open-world adventure, players take on the role of Frey Holland, a young woman who finds herself transported to the magical land of Athia. Armed with magical abilities and aided by her feline friends, Homer and other cat familiars, Frey must navigate through this dangerous new world and uncover its secrets.
But these aren’t just your ordinary house cats – they possess mystical powers and unique personalities that make them valuable allies in battle. As Frey’s companions, they can assist her in combat, heal her wounds, and even unlock hidden paths or treasures.
Each cat familiar has its own distinct abilities and can be upgraded to become even more powerful. Players can choose which familiars to bring along on their journey based on their playstyle and strategize accordingly for different challenges. But the bond between Frey and her furry friends goes beyond just gameplay mechanics. The game also explores the deep connection between humans and animals, highlighting the importance of trust, loyalty, and companionship.
With breathtaking graphics powered by the latest technology from Luminous Productions, Project Athia promises to deliver a visually stunning experience that will immerse players into its magical world.