Fall is here, and there’s no better way to welcome in the cozy season than with some fresh video games. If you love trying out new titles or are just looking to switch things up in your gaming library, October’s new Steam games bring a mix of spooky chills, futuristic shooters, and quirky adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer who’s been playing since the early days of PC gaming or just getting started on your gaming journey, there’s something on this list for everyone. The beauty of October releases is that developers understand the seasonal mood—gamers are settling in for longer play sessions, the weather encourages indoor activities, and there’s a palpable excitement in the air as we approach the holiday gaming season.
We’ve rounded up the most exciting October game releases on Steam that you should definitely check out. Each of these titles has been carefully selected based on gameplay innovation, visual quality, community reception, and overall entertainment value. So, grab your favorite snack, settle into your gaming setup with your preferred controller or keyboard and mouse, and get ready to explore these latest additions that are already making waves in the gaming community!
Table of Contents
The Hottest Steam Games Released in October 2023
1. Disco Samurai – A 2D Hack-and-Slash Full of Funk
Let’s kick things off with a game that’s as wild as its name suggests. Disco Samurai is a hand-drawn action game that throws you into a neon-soaked city where violence blends with rhythm in the most unexpected and exhilarating ways. If you love arcade-style slashing and a killer soundtrack that keeps your adrenaline pumping, this one should be on your radar immediately. The game represents a perfect fusion of artistic expression and tight gameplay mechanics that indie developers have been perfecting over the years.
Imagine mixing the combat fluidity of Dead Cells with the visual flair and intensity of Hotline Miami—that’s the level of energy we’re talking about here. You play as a flaming-sword-wielding hero who’s got more style than your average warrior, someone who understands that looking good while dispatching enemies is just as important as the combat itself. Plus, the visuals feel like a love letter to early 90s cartoons, bringing both nostalgia for older gamers who grew up with Saturday morning animation and novelty for younger players discovering this aesthetic for the first time.
What really sets Disco Samurai apart from other hack-and-slash titles is its commitment to rhythm-based combat mechanics. Your attacks aren’t just button-mashing exercises—they’re choreographed dance moves that flow with the beat of the soundtrack. The better you time your strikes with the music, the more devastating your combos become. This creates a unique gameplay loop where you’re not just fighting enemies; you’re performing a violent ballet set to funk, synthwave, and disco beats that would make any club DJ jealous.
The game features multiple districts within its neon city, each with distinct visual themes, enemy types, and musical styles. From the grimy industrial sectors pulsing with heavy bass to the upscale commercial zones where smooth jazz meets katana strikes, every level feels fresh and exciting. The hand-drawn art style means every frame could be a poster on your wall, with meticulous attention paid to color theory, composition, and animation flow. It’s clear the developers spent countless hours ensuring that the game not only plays well but looks absolutely stunning in motion.
2. The Talos Principle 2 – Puzzles with a Purpose
If action isn’t really your cup of tea, don’t worry. October also brings something for fans of thoughtful storytelling and brain-twisting puzzles that make you contemplate existence itself.
The Talos Principle 2 continues the philosophical journey of the first game, exploring profound questions of AI, humanity, consciousness, and what it means to exist in an increasingly digital world. It’s the perfect game for fans of Portal or The Witness, blending relaxing gameplay with mind-expanding themes that will have you discussing philosophy with friends long after you’ve put down the controller. The developers at Croteam have proven that puzzle games can be so much more than just mental exercises—they can be vehicles for exploring the biggest questions humanity faces.
This time around, levels are bigger, more beautiful, and packed with new mechanics that build upon the foundation established in the original game while introducing fresh challenges. And the best part? You don’t need to have played the first one to enjoy it—you can jump right in and start solving, though veterans will certainly appreciate the numerous callbacks and continuation of storylines. The game does an excellent job of catching new players up on the lore through optional audio logs and environmental storytelling.
The sequel introduces several revolutionary gameplay elements that significantly expand the puzzle-solving toolkit. New gadgets include gravity manipulators, time-dilation devices, and interconnected portal systems that make your brain work in three dimensions simultaneously. The puzzles escalate in complexity gradually, never feeling unfair but always challenging you to think outside the box. Some late-game puzzles have multiple solutions, rewarding creative thinking and experimentation.
What truly elevates The Talos Principle 2 beyond typical puzzle games is its narrative depth. Between puzzle sections, you engage in philosophical debates with AI characters, each representing different viewpoints on consciousness, free will, and the nature of reality. These conversations aren’t just window dressing—they’re integral to the experience, making you question your own assumptions about intelligence and existence. The writing is sharp, thought-provoking, and remarkably well-researched, drawing from philosophical traditions spanning from ancient Greece to modern cognitive science.
The game’s environments are breathtaking, featuring ancient ruins, futuristic megastructures, and surreal landscapes that blend realistic and impossible architecture. Powered by Unreal Engine, the graphics showcase stunning lighting, detailed textures, and draw distances that let you see puzzle structures from miles away, adding to the sense of being in a vast, mysterious world. Whether you’re solving puzzles in a desert monastery or a floating cybercity, the visual design consistently impresses.
3. Hellboy Web of Wyrd – Comic-Book Action Comes to Life
Ever wanted to feel like you’re fighting your way through a graphic novel, with panel-like transitions and that distinctive inked aesthetic that makes comics so compelling? Hellboy Web of Wyrd makes that dream a reality in spectacular fashion.
Inspired by the iconic Hellboy comics created by Mike Mignola, this game sticks close to the visuals that make the series so beloved by fans worldwide. But what makes it truly special is its mix of animated storytelling and Roguelike-style combat that keeps you coming back for more. Battles are intense and require strategic thinking—but they’re also a blast, especially with the detailed art and movement mechanics that capture Hellboy’s signature fighting style perfectly.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the franchise who owns every graphic novel or just discovering Hellboy through this game, this is a must-play for anyone craving rich visual storytelling combined with satisfying gameplay. The developers at Upstream Arcade have clearly done their homework, consulting extensively with the source material to ensure authenticity in every punch, investigation, and supernatural encounter.
The game’s roguelike structure means each run through the mysterious Wyrd—a dimension of myths and monsters—feels different. You’ll encounter randomized room layouts, enemy configurations, and item pickups that force you to adapt your strategy on the fly. Death isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to learn, unlock new abilities, and return stronger. This structure perfectly captures the episodic nature of comic books, where each adventure is self-contained yet builds toward a larger narrative.
Combat in Hellboy Web of Wyrd is wonderfully weighty and impactful. Hellboy’s massive Right Hand of Doom isn’t just for show—it delivers punishing blows that send enemies flying. You’ll need to balance light combos with heavy strikes, dodge supernatural attacks, and use the environment to your advantage. Boss fights are particular highlights, featuring massive creatures pulled straight from folklore and mythology that require pattern recognition and quick reflexes to defeat.
The voice acting deserves special mention, with performances that capture the gruff charm and dry humor that defines Hellboy as a character. The dialogue is sharp and witty, filled with the same sardonic observations and reluctant heroism that made the comics so endearing. Between missions, you’ll explore the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense headquarters, interacting with familiar characters and uncovering conspiracy threads that drive the overarching story forward.
4. Ghostrunner 2 – High-Speed, High-Stakes Cyberpunk Action
If you thought the first Ghostrunner game was intense, with its one-hit-kill mechanics and lightning-fast parkour, wait till you try the sequel that somehow manages to exceed the already sky-high expectations.
Ghostrunner 2 dials everything up to eleven—from the combat complexity to the parkour fluidity to the sheer scope of the cyberpunk dystopia. You’ll dash, slash, and survive through a gritty cyberpunk world where a single mistake can mean a quick game over and an instant respawn to try again. It’s like mixing the reflex-testing precision of Mirror’s Edge with the atmospheric world-building of Blade Runner, creating an experience that’s equal parts action game and parkour simulator.
What’s new this time around? Expanded levels that take you beyond the confining tower of the first game into the broader dystopian cityscape, more weapon options including throwing stars and long-range energy blasts, and even motorcycle combat—yep, you read that right. If you’re in the mood for fast-paced thrills and futuristic vibes that make you feel like the ultimate cybernetic ninja, this should jump to the top of your must-play list immediately.
The level design in Ghostrunner 2 is absolutely masterful, featuring intricate three-dimensional spaces that require you to think vertically as much as horizontally. You’ll wall-run along neon-lit corridors, grapple between platforms hundreds of feet in the air, and slow time to slice through bullets matrix-style. Each arena is a puzzle as much as a combat encounter, challenging you to find the optimal path through enemies while maintaining momentum.
The skill tree system has been significantly expanded, offering multiple progression paths that cater to different playstyles. Want to focus on defensive abilities with better time-dilation powers? There’s a path for that. Prefer aggressive close-quarters combat with devastating sword techniques? You can specialize there too. The customization extends to your appearance as well, with numerous cosmetic unlocks that let you personalize your cybernetic assassin.
Story-wise, Ghostrunner 2 delves deeper into the lore established in the first game, exploring the origins of the Ghostrunner program and the political machinations within Dharma Tower. The narrative is delivered through gorgeous cutscenes, environmental storytelling, and conversations with allies that flesh out this dark future. While you can certainly enjoy the game for its pure action, those who invest in the story will find a surprisingly thoughtful examination of transhumanism, authority, and resistance.
The motorcycle sections mentioned earlier aren’t just gimmicks—they’re full-fledged gameplay sequences that add variety to the core formula. Racing through highways while dodging traffic and enemy fire, these segments pulse with adrenaline and feature their own upgrade systems and challenges. They serve as excellent palate cleansers between the intense parkour-combat sections, though they’re thrilling enough to be highlights in their own right.
5. Alan Wake 2 – Step into the Darkness
Is it really October without a good psychological thriller that keeps you up at night long after you’ve stopped playing? The long-awaited Alan Wake 2 delivers spine-chilling suspense just in time for Halloween, thirteen years after the original game left fans with countless questions. This game blends horror, mystery, and action in proportions that feel perfectly balanced—kind of like if Stephen King wrote a video game with David Lynch directing the cinematography.
You don’t need to have played the original to enjoy this one, though the developers have included helpful recaps and references that reward long-time fans. Newcomers will find themselves quickly caught up in the twin narratives that define this sequel. But fans of the first game are in for a treat, with callbacks, returning characters, and resolution to mysteries that have been debated in forums for over a decade. With dual protagonists—Alan Wake himself and FBI agent Saga Anderson—improved gunplay that makes combat feel genuinely threatening, and an atmosphere that keeps you on edge with every shadow and sound, this game is perfect for a late-night gaming session with the lights off… if you’re brave enough.
What makes Alan Wake 2 particularly special is its commitment to the survival horror genre while incorporating modern action game conveniences. Ammunition is scarce enough to create tension but not so rare that you feel helpless. Enemies—known as the Taken—are genuinely frightening, requiring you to burn away their darkness with light before finishing them with conventional weapons. This creates a unique combat rhythm that’s more strategic than typical shooters.
The game’s structure alternates between Alan’s surreal nightmare in the Dark Place—a twisted version of New York City where reality bends to narrative conventions—and Saga’s investigation in the eerie Pacific Northwest town of Bright Falls. These parallel stories eventually converge in ways that are both satisfying and mind-bending, playing with concepts of reality, fiction, and the power of storytelling itself. The writing is exceptional, maintaining the literary quality that defined the original while pushing into even darker, more experimental territory.
Visually, Alan Wake 2 is stunning, utilizing Remedy Entertainment’s Northlight engine to create photorealistic environments that can shift from beautiful to horrifying in seconds. The lighting is particularly noteworthy—not just because it’s a gameplay mechanic, but because it creates mood and atmosphere in ways few games achieve. Flashlight beams cutting through fog, flickering neon signs reflecting in puddles, and the stark contrast between light and shadow all contribute to an oppressive sense of dread.
The game also features live-action sequences seamlessly integrated with gameplay, a signature Remedy technique that works even better here than in their previous title, Control. These sequences blur the line between game and reality, making you question what’s real within the narrative and adding to the overall sense of unreliability and paranoia that defines psychological horror.
More Noteworthy Steam Titles to Check Out This Month
In addition to the big-name titles above that dominated headlines and streaming platforms, Steam also saw a variety of smaller but equally impressive gems release in October. Don’t overlook these indie darlings and mid-tier releases that might not have massive marketing budgets but deliver exceptional experiences:
Soulstone Survivors – A fast-paced action roguelite with tons of build options that will keep theory-crafters and min-maxers busy for dozens of hours. This game takes inspiration from the bullet-heaven genre popularized by Vampire Survivors but adds significant depth with skill trees, equipment systems, and synergies that make each run feel unique. The progression is addictive, constantly offering new unlocks and encouraging “just one more run” mentality that will eat up entire evenings before you realize it.
My Little Universe – Quirky world-building mechanics loaded with charm and color that make this perfect for casual gaming sessions or decompressing after a stressful day. You’ll gather resources, craft items, and gradually expand your tiny universe into something grand and beautiful. The game strikes an excellent balance between idle game mechanics and active engagement, meaning you can play as intensely or relaxedly as your mood demands. The art style is adorable without being saccharine, and there’s surprising depth in the upgrade systems.
Sun Down – A survival horror experience focused on eerie atmosphere and mystery rather than jump scares and action sequences. This indie title proves that small teams can create genuinely unsettling experiences when they focus on mood, sound design, and psychological tension. You’ll explore abandoned locations, piece together what happened through environmental clues, and try to survive encounters with things that shouldn’t exist. It’s perfect for horror fans who prefer creeping dread over adrenaline-pumping frights.
Why October is a Great Month for Gamers
October is kind of like the unofficial start of “gaming season,” a phenomenon that industry veterans and enthusiastic players alike recognize year after year. With shorter days that make outdoor activities less appealing, cooler weather that makes staying indoors genuinely comfortable rather than just bearable, and the holiday season right around the corner bringing both gift-giving opportunities and time off from work or school, many developers time their biggest releases for this time of year. It’s strategic planning that benefits everyone involved.
Plus, with Halloween in the mix, there’s always a handful of horror or thriller games to get you into the spooky spirit that defines late October. Game developers know that audiences are primed for scary experiences during this month, making it the perfect time to release atmospheric horror titles, psychological thrillers, and anything with supernatural elements. The cultural momentum around Halloween creates a unique marketing opportunity that savvy publishers leverage.
If you’ve been meaning to dive back into gaming (or just want a new title to geek out over with friends and online communities), now’s the time to snag some of the best new Steam games. Sales often accompany these October releases as developers compete for attention, meaning your wallet can stretch further. Additionally, jumping into new games at launch means you’re experiencing discovery alongside the community—sharing tips, discussing theories, and participating in the cultural moment when a game is fresh and exciting.
The timing also aligns perfectly with hardware upgrade cycles and seasonal sales on gaming peripherals. Many gamers use fall as an opportunity to upgrade their rigs, get new monitors, or finally invest in that mechanical keyboard they’ve been eyeing. Playing cutting-edge October releases on fresh hardware creates a satisfying synergy that maximizes the experience.
How to Choose Which New Game to Play?
Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices and unsure where to invest your limited gaming time and budget? Here are a few questions to help you narrow it down and make a decision you’ll be happy with:
Do you enjoy fast-paced action that keeps your heart racing, or are you into relaxed puzzle-solving that lets you think at your own pace? This fundamental question determines whether you should be looking at games like Ghostrunner 2 and Disco Samurai versus titles like The Talos Principle 2. Knowing your preferred gameplay tempo is the first step in filtering options.
Are you playing solo or with friends, and does social interaction enhance your gaming experience? Some games are designed as solitary experiences that tell intimate stories, while others shine when experienced alongside others—either cooperatively or competitively. Understanding your social gaming preferences helps narrow the field significantly.
Do you want story-rich experiences that make you think and feel, or gameplay-driven action where mechanics take center stage? Both approaches are valid, but they deliver very different satisfactions. Story-focused players might gravitate toward Alan Wake 2, while those who prioritize gameplay loops and mechanical mastery might prefer the roguelike structure of Hellboy Web of Wyrd.
What’s your available time commitment? Some games are designed for short burst sessions of 20-30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules. Others demand hours of uninterrupted attention to fully appreciate their narratives and systems. Being realistic about your available time prevents buyer’s remorse.
Are you interested in mastering complex systems, or do you prefer more accessible experiences? Games vary wildly in their learning curves and skill ceilings. Understanding your patience for tutorial periods and practice helps you choose appropriately challenging titles.
If you’re still unsure after considering these questions, try watching a gameplay trailer or Twitch stream to see the game in action from actual players. Sometimes, seeing the game in motion—observing the user interface, listening to the audio design, and watching how the gameplay flows—makes the decision a lot easier. You can also check Steam reviews from verified purchasers, though remember that reviews can be subjective and influenced by technical issues that might get patched.
Many games also offer demos or free weekends during launch periods, providing risk-free opportunities to test whether a title clicks with you before committing to a purchase. Take advantage of Steam’s refund policy as well—if you play less than two hours and request a refund within 14 days, you can get your money back if the game isn’t what you expected.
Final Thoughts
From artistic action games like Disco Samurai that blend style with substance to the eerie mind games of Alan Wake 2 that redefine survival horror for a new generation, October 2023 gave us an amazing batch of titles on Steam that cater to virtually every gaming preference. Whether you’re into solving puzzles that challenge your perception of reality, battling demons in gorgeously rendered hellscapes, or exploring futuristic cities while parkouring at breakneck speeds, there’s a fresh game ready for you to jump into and get lost in for hours.
The diversity of this October’s releases speaks to the health and creativity of the gaming industry. We’re seeing established franchises deliver satisfying sequels that innovate rather than simply rehash, indie developers pushing artistic boundaries with limited budgets but unlimited imagination, and mid-tier studios finding their voice with distinctive titles that don’t try to be everything to everyone.
What’s particularly exciting is how these games represent different approaches to game design philosophy. Some prioritize mechanical perfection and replayability, others emphasize narrative and emotional impact, and still others focus on creating unique aesthetic experiences. All approaches are valuable, and October’s releases demonstrate that there’s room for every type of game to find its audience.
So, what’s going on your playlist this month? If you’ve tried any of these games already, drop a comment below and let us know your thoughts, whether you loved them or felt they missed the mark—honest feedback helps fellow gamers make informed decisions. Or better yet, let us know which one you’re most excited to download next, and we can discuss what you should expect going in. The gaming community thrives on these shared experiences and conversations, so don’t be shy about participating.
Remember to check system requirements before purchasing, ensure your drivers are updated for optimal performance, and consider joining community Discord servers or subreddits for the games you’re most interested in. The social aspect of modern gaming can significantly enhance your enjoyment, providing spaces to share discoveries, get help when stuck, and celebrate achievements with people who understand your enthusiasm.
Happy gaming, and may your October be filled with memorable virtual adventures, satisfying gameplay moments, and the kind of experiences that remind you why you fell in love with this medium in the first place!
Frequently Asked Questions About October Steam Releases
Which is the best Steam game released in October 2023?
That depends entirely on your personal gaming style and what you’re looking for in your next virtual adventure! For action lovers who thrive on challenge and reflex-based gameplay, Ghostrunner 2 is a highlight that delivers pulse-pounding cyberpunk thrills. Into story-driven content that makes you think about themes beyond the game itself? Alan Wake 2 and The Talos Principle 2 are fantastic picks that offer deep narratives alongside their gameplay. If you want something unique that blends multiple genres, Disco Samurai’s rhythm-action combination or Hellboy Web of Wyrd’s roguelike-comic-book mashup might be exactly what you’re craving. The “best” game is ultimately the one that aligns with your preferences and current gaming mood.
Are these games available on other platforms too?
Many of them are multi-platform releases! Ghostrunner 2, Alan Wake 2, and Hellboy Web of Wyrd are also available on consoles like PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One, making them accessible to console gamers who don’t have gaming PCs. Some titles like The Talos Principle 2 are on multiple platforms as well. However, some indie games and smaller releases are Steam and PC exclusives, at least initially—developers often release on PC first to test the market before investing in console ports. If you’re primarily a console gamer, check the specific game’s store page to confirm platform availability before getting too excited.
What if I’m new to Steam? Can I still enjoy these games?
Absolutely, and welcome to PC gaming! All of these games are friendly to beginners and don’t require advanced gaming knowledge or years of experience with specific genres to enjoy. Just make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements listed on each game’s Steam page—this includes CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage specifications. Steam makes it easy to check compatibility and will warn you if your system doesn’t meet requirements. If you’re completely new to Steam, creating an account is free, and the platform offers frequent sales, user reviews, and a robust community to help guide your purchases. Don’t hesitate to start with games that offer difficulty settings or assist modes if you’re concerned about challenge level.
Do I need to play previous games in these series to understand the sequels?
For most of these titles, previous experience isn’t required. The Talos Principle 2 includes recaps and can be enjoyed standalone. Alan Wake 2 provides enough context for newcomers, though playing the original enhances the experience. Ghostrunner 2 has a brief recap of the first game’s events. Disco Samurai and Hellboy Web of Wyrd are new entries that don’t require prior franchise knowledge. Game developers understand that requiring players to invest in multiple games creates barriers to entry, so most sequels are designed to be accessible while rewarding veteran players with deeper references.
Are these games suitable for all ages?
No, many of these October releases feature mature content. Alan Wake 2, Ghostrunner 2, Hellboy Web of Wyrd, and Disco Samurai all contain violence, intense imagery, and sometimes strong language. Always check the ESRB or PEGI ratings before purchasing for younger players. The Talos Principle 2 is generally appropriate for teens and up, focusing on puzzle-solving rather than violence. Steam provides detailed content descriptors on each game’s page, helping parents and guardians make informed decisions about age-appropriateness.
What are the system requirements like for these games?
System requirements vary significantly between titles. Alan Wake 2 and Ghostrunner 2 are graphically demanding games that benefit from modern GPUs and processors. Indie titles like Disco Samurai and My Little Universe are much less demanding and can run on older or budget systems. Always check the specific Steam page for minimum and recommended specifications. If your system meets minimum requirements, the game will run but possibly with reduced graphics settings. Recommended specifications ensure a smooth, high-quality experience.
Ready to level up your gaming experience and dive into these incredible October releases? Visit the Steam store and check out these new releases today, read user reviews to get community perspectives, watch gameplay videos to see what resonates with you, and take advantage of any launch discounts or bundle deals that might be available. Your next gaming obsession is waiting!