Top 10 Video Games Set at Christmas
It’s that time of year again when classic forms of media resurface to get you in the holiday spirit. Although you may be able to quickly select your favorite song or play your most beloved movie, you may draw a blank when thinking about the best Christmas game. Well, I’ve scoured the exhaustive list that fits the bill and selected the finest titles that allow you to step into Christmas.
Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Spider-Man: Miles Morales is, without a doubt, my favorite festive game. What’s more Christmas-y than swinging around a frosty New York with your friendly neighborhood web swinger? Its slick combat and fast-paced traversal in a decked-up Big Apple make this one of the best games set at Christmas.Â
Batman: Arkham OriginsÂ
The Arkham games managed to capture the many aspects that make the Dark Knight the greatest superhero of them all. While not the greatest in the franchise, Origins is unfairly overlooked. Its great boss battles, improved detective mechanics, and story make this a memorable time with the caped crusader. Set on Christmas Eve, the snow-covered Gotham is an excellent way to get you in the festive mood.
Bayonetta 2
Bayonetta 2 is one of the greatest action games to date, so what better reason to revisit the classic than to get you in the holiday spirit? While you may remember the over-the-top, ridiculous action set pieces more than the story, the game is actually set at Christmas. Seeing the witch herself purchasing presents and Rodin dressed as Santa is both bonkers and brilliant.
Tom Clancy’s The Division
After a virus decimates the population, the world is sent into chaos and anarchy reigns supreme. Doesn’t sound too Christmasy right? Well, this happens in the lead-up to the big day, so New York is covered in snow and decorated with lights. So you get that warm, fuzzy feeling as you pump enemies full of bullets.Â
Dead Rising 4
Dead Rising is good ol’ silly fun. Knocking down zombies with a bowling ball, using the undead as a boxing bag, and slicing up a horde with a massive samurai sword is the perfect way to relieve the stress of the holidays. Its iconic setting and crazy cast of characters make this a wonderful Christmas time.
Yakuza Kiwami
The Yakuza games are complex crime-thrillers that explore the underbelly of Japan, however, this is countered with ridiculous scenarios that make the game an absolute joy. Kiwami is set in December, so the streets of Kamurocho have a real festive feel. Decorations lace the area and there are several yuletide-themed presents hidden within.
Die Hard TrilogyÂ
Many argue that Die Hard is the best Christmas film, well, they’re wrong because it’s Muppets’ Christmas Carol. Regardless of this, John McClain and his ass-kicking antics are now synonymous with the period and this classic is a fun iteration of the franchise. Each game adopts a different genre with the second entry being a highlight of the bundle. The first is a sketchy third-person action game, but the second is a fun on-the-rails shooter that will help you do Christmas harder.
Batman Returns
The second entry on the list for the World’s Greatest Detective is Batman Returns on the SNES. The combination of the comics and Christmas work wonderfully. While the game follows conventions of side-scrolling beat-em-up of the era, its chunky sprites and the number of offensive maneuvers make this a stand-out title in the genre.Â
James Pond II: Codename RoboCod
James Pond is a classic. Often overlooked, this cute platformer was released in the early 90s and references many cinematic heroes. Its story focuses on the unimaginable horror, of a villain taking over Santa’s Workshop. With all his helpers held hostage, it’s down to you to save the day.
Sam & Max: Beyond Time & Space
While not all of the game is Christmas-themed, Episode 1: Ice Station Santa definitely is. With its signature humor, Sam & Max have to take down the crazed, bearded man himself in a hilarious tale. The point-and-click adventure captures that Christmas spirit by infusing elements of Dickens’ classic.
So there you have it, those are my picks for the best games set a Christmas. Have I missed your festive favorite? Is there a snowy story that captures the spirit of the holidays better?  Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and get even more amazing video game content through the links below.
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