As with movies, plenty of video games decide to lean on a Christmas theme to provide a backdrop for characters to explore or simply add a festive twist to the gameplay. Of course, it doesn’t always work, and it can, at times, feel like it detracts from the overall experience. Yet, studios can sometimes catch lightning in a bottle, combining festive elements to give established games a new lease of life through bonus levels and expansions.
As it’s approaching the Holiday season, we thought we’d pick out some examples of great Christmas-based games, levels, and expansions that hit the right notes any time of the year. Below, we list seven of the best, spanning multiple genres and gaming styles:
Dead Rising 4 (Xbox/PC)
A Christmas setting for the iconic zombie-smashing game sounds a bit goofy on paper, yet the chance to return as Frank West during the Holiday Season is one no gamer should turn down. It’s probably not the best in the series, but as with all great zombie movies, it’s got a poignant underlying message. This time, about the consumerism that swallows us all up in December.
Hitman 3 – “Holiday Hoarders” (PS4/X1/PC)
A bonus mission originally on limited release but now a permanent part of Hitman 3, Holiday Hoarders has gained a cult following all on its own. Clearly inspired by Home Alone, you can embrace the silly side of Agent 47, somehow channelling Macaulay Culkin. Weirdly brilliant.
Viscera Cleanup Detail: Santa’s Rampage (PC)
Another expansion, this time of VCD, you will be the janitor tasked with cleaning up after a major incident at the North Pole, i.e., Santa went on a bloody rampage. It’s full of humor, and while not as detailed as other VCD levels, it’s highly entertaining. It’s got ubiquitously positive reviews, too.
Christmas Miracles (PC, mobile)
One of the best picks among the large selection of Christmas-themed online slot games at Pulsz social casino, this casual title has plenty of festive cheer. Santa and his elves appear among the Holiday symbols in this 5-reeler, which has a stocking full of special features and ways to win.
Saints Row IV – “How the Saints Save Christmas” (PS4/X1/PC)
On paper, this one is ridiculous, but joyously so. How the Saints Save Christmas is the second DLC mission pack released for the excellent Saints Row IV. It really doesn’t take itself too seriously, mixing everything from time travel to cringey Christmas puns.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Toy Day (Switch)
With cozy gaming on the rise, especially among Gen-Z, the low-stress ‘event’ on the evergreen Animal Crossing: New Horizons is perfect to play. All you have to do is help Jingle the Reindeer deliver presents on Toy Day. Wholesome content.
Overcooked! 2 – Festive Seasoning / Kevin’s Christmas Cracker (multiple platforms)
The festive DLCs from what is arguably the best cooking sim around, you kind of know what you are going to get here: New wintry recipes, Xmas-themed mayhem, and plenty of laughs. A top family/social game to play over the Holidays.