By Kallie Plagge on Jun 07, 2018 06:08 am
Best of the Best
It's been over four years since the launch of Xbox One, which means over four years of games! As such, it can be hard to decide what to play. From exclusives to the top multi-platform games to indies, there's a lot to choose from--and even though people joke that the Xbox One has no games, that's just not true! We've picked out the best Xbox One games so far. This includes many of the games that received an 8 or higher on GameSpot, and we've prioritized games that were nominated for our Best Xbox One Game list in the years those games released. It also includes Assassin's Creed: Origins, which was one of GameSpot's top Xbox One games of 2017 due to its performance on the Xbox One X. While there are plenty of new games, we haven't included the hundreds of backwards compatible games on Xbox One, which includes many original Xbox and Xbox 360 favorites. Xbox also has a subscription service called which lets you download and play a selection of over 100 games that varies slightly from month to month. For more Xbox One games, see our roundups of the best cheap games on Xbox One, and make sure to check out our gallery of the Xbox One exclusive games confirmed for 2018 as well as the biggest Xbox One games of 2018 for everything coming to the console.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice -- 8/10
"Hellblade's most notable achievement is the handling of an incredibly sensitive subject matter within an engaging and well-crafted action/adventure game. At its heart, the story is about Senua's struggle to come to terms with her illness. In the process, she learns to find the strength within herself to endure, and to make peace with her past. And in a profound and physical way, we go through those same struggles with her, and come away with a better understanding of a piece of something that many people in the world struggle with." [read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari, Editor
Far Cry 5 -- 9/10
"Despite some brief irritations and missed opportunities with its narrative, spending time in the world of Hope County remains absolutely delightful. Far Cry 5 boasts a wonderfully harmonious flow to its adventure, with its smart changes to exploration, discovery, and progression distinctly bolstering the enjoyment of creatively engaging and experimenting with its spectacular open world." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, AU Editor / Senior Video Producer
Monster Hunter: World -- 8/10
"Ever since the title was first announced last year, it was clear that Capcom was gunning for something grander than Monster Hunter Generations. It has succeeded, and this is likely the biggest and best that the franchise has ever been. It's not just the comparative depth of the narrative; it also boasts almost seamless integration between combat systems that were previously incomprehensible for amateurs. The Monster Hunter formula has definitely honed its claws, and all the above factors play their part in making Monster Hunter World a meaningful evolution for the series at large." [read the full review] -- Ginny Woo
Celeste -- 9/10
"It's a testament to convincing writing and ingenious design that after playing Celeste I felt like I'd been on the same journey as Madeline. Her struggle is one made easy to empathize with, her low points painful to watch, and her high notes exhilarating to experience. Her tale is delicately told and beautifully illustrated, confidently coalescing with the satisfying, empowering game it lies within. Not bad for a game about climbing a mountain." [read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus, Staff Writer
What Remains of Edith Finch -- 9/10
"Developer Giant Sparrow managed to strike the delicate balance between joy and sorrow in 2012's The Unfinished Swan, but What Remains of Edith Finch transcends even the latent sadness of that game, finding the beauty--even sometimes the fun--in what's always fundamentally a tragedy. It's not often that a game's plot slips past the bitterness of grief to finally get to the acceptance, but that's the triumph in What Remains of Edith Finch. Ultimately, if the game has any resemblance of a moral, it's that the bravest, most beautiful thing every one of us does is choose to keep going, despite knowing what's coming." [read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus -- 9/10
"The New Colossus never lets you forget who and why you're fighting. Nazi brutality is on full display, from the blown-out, irradiated remains of Manhattan to each of the resistance members, who all carry mental scars if not physical ones. You're never given a chance between cutscenes, missions, and even downtime on the U-boat to lose sight of the Reich's cruelty. Wolfenstein's tense gameplay elevates this further by giving you the power to truly resist--and come out of each battle ready for another fight." [read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Sonic Mania -- 9/10
"Sonic Mania methodically uses its sentimental appeal to great effect, but in the process, it heals the wounds inflicted by its most disappointing predecessors and surpasses the series' best with its smart and interpretive design. An excellent 2D platformer, Sonic Mania goes beyond expectations, managing to be not only a proper evolution of the series' iconic formula, but the best Sonic game ever made." [read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Cuphead -- 8/10
"Everything you've heard about Cuphead is true. It is a difficult side-scrolling shooter with relentless boss battles that demand rapid-fire actions and reactions. Think for too long, and you won't stand a chance against the game's toughest enemies. Battles may only last three minutes at most, but they feel far longer when you know that you can only absorb three hits before you have to start from scratch. When you are navigating your way around bullets, smaller enemies, and pitfalls, while simultaneously trying to damage your primary target, toppling Cuphead's imposing bosses is both a monumental and rewarding task." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Assassin's Creed Origins -- 7/10
"Assassin's Creed has undergone many changes in its long and storied history, and Origins feels like the first step in the start of a new journey. It has its fair share of problems, but the vision for its future is one worth pursuing." [read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari, Editor
Stardew Valley -- 9/10
"On the surface, Stardew Valley is a game about farming, but there are more adventures awaiting curious players beyond cultivating a rich and bountiful garden. From mining and fishing to making friends and falling in love, Stardew Valley's Pelican Town is stuffed with rewarding opportunities. As modern day woes give way to pressing matters on the farm and within your newfound community, Stardew Valley's meditative activities often lead to personal reflection in the real world. It's a game that tugs at your curiosity as often as it does your heart." [read the full review] -- Mary Kish
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard -- 8/10
"By the end of the campaign, I was ready for the game to be over, but that's okay. RE7 ends just as it starts to outstay its welcome, and after the fact, I felt like I'd survived a truly harrowing journey. The boss fights may be slightly inconsistent and certain sections might drag after a while, but RE7 is still a remarkable success. It has a clear vision and executes it with impressive patience and precision. By returning to horror, Resident Evil has once again become something special." [read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
Night in the Woods -- 9/10
"Both intensely personal and widely relatable, Night in the Woods doesn't just tell a story--it gracefully captures complex, often unpleasant feelings and experiences. From the quiet melancholy of doing nothing on a rainy day to the emotional vacuum of severe depression, I felt deeply, sometimes too deeply, while wandering through the cartoon-animal version of a small Midwestern town. Its witty writing and character development keep its crushing existential themes grounded, making Night in the Woods one of the most evocative games I've played in a long time." [read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Overwatch -- 9/10
"Overwatch is an exercise in refined chaos. There are multitudes of layers hiding beneath the hectic surface, and they emerge, one after another, the more you play. This is a shooter that knows how to surprise, one that unfolds at a frantic pace, one that takes a handful of great ideas, and combines them into something spectacular." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Battlefield 1 -- 9/10
"EA DICE splendidly interprets the early 20th century as a world in technological transition while humanizing the war's participants through well crafted, albeit fictional, narrative vignettes. Combined with an enthralling multiplayer component, the overall result is the studio's best work since Battlefield: Bad Company 2." [read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Titanfall 2 -- 9/10
"Titanfall 2 demonstrates a vitality that its predecessor couldn't. Whereas the first Titanfall kept up its breakneck pace throughout the entirety of every match, Titanfall 2 understands that sometimes, dialing things back for a few moments can make the long run much more enjoyable. In many ways, Titanfall 2 feels like the game Respawn should have made in 2013. It's a fantastic sequel. It's a fluid shooter. It's a spectacular game." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Dishonored 2 -- 8/10
"Any time I'm given a choice between stealth and action, I go stealth. I love the hold-your-breath tension of hoping a guard didn't spot you and the hard-earned triumph of executing a perfectly timed plan. Dishonored 2 delivers that sneaky satisfaction, arming you with stealth essentials like hiding bodies, peering through keyholes, and silent takedowns. But it's also an incredible engine for gleeful chaos, one so engrossing and amusing that I kind of accidentally beat the entire campaign raining hilarious, elaborate death on my enemies." [read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
Forza Horizon 3 -- 9/10
"With Forza Horizon 3, Turn 10 and Playground Games affirm the series' status as the driving game for everyone. The new emphasis on off-road options isn't at the expense of traditional races, thanks to the sheer volume of activities. All the while, Playground Games' calculated kitchen-sink design philosophy and rich reward system persistently tempt you to explore beyond your comfort zone, whether it's gifting your first Ariel Nomad buggy or reminding you that stunt races can impress thousands of fans. Enhancing your own brand might feel like a strange motivation to hit the road, but pulling off sick e-drifts on a mile-long series of curves makes the PR work worthwhile." [read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Inside -- 8/10
"This is a beautiful, haunting, and memorable game, a worthy follow-up to Limbo. Its puzzles, although rarely difficult, are engaging complements to the story. The real achievement of this game, though, is the way that it crafts its narrative: detailed environments convey the bizarre world that you travel through; introspective moments are filled with minimalist sound design and just the barest touches of music; and the things you must do to complete your journey force you to confront the realities of humanity, freedom, and existence." [read the full review] -- Alex Newhouse
Dark Souls III -- 8/10
"Dark Souls III is a game of valleys and peaks, down through dungeons and up over castle walls. It's a plummet into places we shouldn't be--an escape from places we don't belong. But of course, we fight our way through the darkness, and find our way out. There are a few stumbles along the way, but in the end, Dark Souls III is well worth the riveting climb." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt -- 10/10
"Where the Witcher 2 sputtered to a halt, The Witcher 3 is always in a crescendo, crafting battle scenarios that constantly one-up the last, until you reach the explosive finale and recover in the glow of the game's quiet denouement. But while the grand clashes are captivating, it is the moments between conflicts, when you drink with the local clans and bask in a trobairitz's song, that are truly inspiring." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Halo 5: Guardians -- 8/10
"Halo 5: Guardians is fueled by new ideas and propelled by some of the boldest changes to this storied franchise yet. Some of these changes fail, but others succeed, and although Halo 5 falters at times, it whisks us through black holes and across war torn tropical islands at a rapid pace. We can only surrender to its velocity." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Rise of the Tomb Raider -- 9/10
"Rise of the Tomb Raider's first shot pans over the vast, foreboding landscape we'll soon come to know. In many ways, it functions as a promise on the part of Crystal Dynamics: there are big things ahead of us. And at the end of Lara's journey, after we've seen her through this adventure, and experienced everything the world has to offer, it's clear that promise was kept." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Ori and the Blind Forest -- 9/10
"It consistently surprises you with new tricks: gravitational divergences, new ways to move through its spaces, and carefully designed levels that require you to think quickly and respond. It is not as snappy as, say, a typical Mario platformer, seeking instead a broader gameplay arc stretching across a single, interconnected world. It's a superb and thematically consistent approach that allows Ori and the Blind Forest to build joy on a bed of heartache, adding a new layer of mechanical complexity with each ray of hope." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain -- 10/10
"There has never been a game in the series with such depth to its gameplay, or so much volume in content. The best elements from the past games are here, and the new open-world gameplay adds more to love on top. When it comes to storytelling, there has never been a Metal Gear game that's so consistent in tone, daring in subject matter, and so captivating in presentation. The Phantom Pain may be a contender for one of the best action games ever made, but is undoubtedly the best Metal Gear game there is." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Fallout 4 -- 9/10
"Fallout 4 is an engrossing game that lures you in with mystery and the promise of adventure. Its wretched wasteland can be captivating, and you never know what odd person or settlement lies around the next bend. Fallout 4 uses its dark world as a canvas for exciting combat and gripping stories, and when you dig deeper into its post-nuclear-apocalypse version of Boston--defending yourself from violent scavengers and using your wits to climb social ladders--you become attached to the new you, and ultimately invested in the fate of your new world." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor -- 8/10
"This is a great game in its own right, narratively disjointed but mechanically sound, made up of excellent parts pieced together in excellent ways. I already knew what future lay in store for Middle-earth as I played Shadow of Mordor; I'm hoping that my own future might one day bring another Lord of the Rings adventure as stirring as this one." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Dragon Age: Inquisition -- 9/10
"Inquisition's characters and world recall the grand gestures of the original Dragon Age, even though the game as a whole is so structurally different to its predecessors. It offers the thrill of discovery and the passion of camaraderie. It features a glee club called The Sing-Quisition, and a dwarf with writer's block. It establishes connections with its world in big ways and small, with the sight of a titanous temple and the smirk of an Orlesian commander in love. Dragon Age: Inquisition is a wonderful game and a lengthy pilgrimage to a magical world with vital thematic ties to one we already know." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition -- 8/10
"Lara herself is so well crafted that I grew attached to her exploits and was sad to say goodbye when the credits rolled. And the exquisite visual design is so breathtaking that I continually found myself staring at the scenery instead of pushing onward. Tomb Raider is a great reinvention of this enduring franchise that made me eager to see where Lara goes in her future." [read the full review] -- Tom McShea
Forza Motorsport 5 -- 9/10
"All of this combined makes Forza Motorsport 5 an outstanding improvement to an already excellent racing franchise. It's far more than just a great racing sim, or a gorgeous showcase for the types of feats the Xbox One hardware is capable of. This is a game built on the romantic thrill of motorsport in all its forms, and that love for its subject matter is all but impossible to resist." [read the full review] -- Shaun McInnis
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag -- 9/10
"There's an incredible scope to what you can do in Black Flag, with a level of harmony between its component parts that encourages you to try it all, and a story that keeps you invested throughout the whole thing. If there was ever any question that Assassin's Creed needed something ambitious to get the series back on track, Black Flag is that game and then some." [read the full review] -- Shaun McInnis
By Kallie Plagge on Jun 07, 2018 05:48 am
Top Tier
PC gaming has been around for quite a while, but it only continues to improve as technology gets more advanced and as more and more great games come out. But because so many games do come out on PC (especially Steam) all the time, it can be hard to know what to play. To help you out, we went back a few years and rounded up the best PC-exclusive games. For this feature, we included some (but not all) of the PC games that received a score of 8 or higher on GameSpot, with priority going to games that were nominated for awards at the end of their release years. To narrow the scope further, we only picked games that released in 2013 or later--sorry, CS:GO. Many of the games that released during this period are some the best release on the platform. You can spend tons of hours in classic CRPG-style games or immerse yourself in more narrative-driven indie adventure games. Suffice to say it, there's plenty of high-quality options available to you. What PC games from 2013 onward do you love the most? Let us know in the comments below. And for more PC recommendations, be sure to check out our new show, Steam Punks, where we pick out a few hidden gems on Steam for you to try each week. You can also see our list of the biggest PC games to play in 2018 for more of what's to come.
Battletech -- 8/10
"Battletech is a game that selfishly takes its time to be meticulous in every respect, and pushing through the density and idiosyncrasies of its many, slow-moving parts can be tough. But if you have the will to decipher it, albeit, at a deliberate and punishingly plodding pace, you can find yourself completely engrossed in its kinetic clashes. Battletech's intricate components ultimately foster a fascinating wealth of nuanced systems that build a uniquely strenuous, detailed, and thoroughly rewarding tactical strategy game." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, AU Editor / Senior Video Producer
Total War: Thrones of Britannia -- 8/10
"Thrones of Britannia is an exciting experience despite the cuts to integral components of the Total War series, such as city planning hinging on military needs, specific building customization, and expanded intrigue options. But this has given Creative Assembly room to focus on enhancing parts of the strategy experience that aren't quite as impenetrable to newcomers, and to allow the series to return to some of the beloved parts of previous historical games to balance out its newer, slimmer form. While there are minor issues with AI, and pacing suffers when you've comfortably gotten the upper hand, this is still a worthy and engaging contribution to the Total War stable that has successfully taken its cues from history's winners and losers alike." [read the full review] -- Ginny Woo
Far: Lone Sails -- 8/10
"Lone Sails is a transfixing, lovely experience, one that takes recurring indie game tropes and does something unique and fun with them. It's short enough that you could play through it in a single two or three-hour session, but it will likely stick with you for a long time. I can see myself going back in a few months just to revisit the ship, like checking in on an old friend." [read the full review] -- James O'Connor
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire -- 8/10
"Deadfire is dense, and it isn't a small game, easily dwarfing its predecessor in terms of scale. There's a lot to do, and it's easier than ever to get lost in the little stories you find, without following the arcs that the game has specially set out for you. Still, it's worth taking your time. The richness of Deadfire takes a while to appreciate, and like the brined sailors that call it home, you'll be left with an indelible attachment to these islands when you do finally step away." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Frostpunk -- 9/10
"Frostpunk is among the best overall takes on the survival city builder to date. Its theming and consistency create a powerful narrative through line that binds your actions around the struggle to hold onto humanity in uncertain times. Hope is a qualified good, but you may not always be strong enough (or clever enough) to shelter that flame from the cold." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Into the Breach -- 9/10
"There is so much strategic joy in seeing the potential destruction a swarm of giant monsters is about to unleash on a city, then quickly staging and executing elaborate counter maneuvers to ruin the party. Into The Breach's focus on foresight makes its turn-based encounters an action-packed, risk-free puzzle, and the remarkable diversity of playstyles afforded by unique units keeps each new run interesting. It's a pleasure to see what kind of life-threatening predicaments await for you to creatively resolve in every new turn, every new battle, and every new campaign. Into The Breach is a pristine and pragmatic tactical gem with dynamic conflicts that will inspire you to jump back in again, and again, and again." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, AU Editor / Senior Video Producer
Divinity: Original Sin II -- 10/10
"From lonely farmhouses through pitched battles with gods in far-flung dimensions, Divinity: Original Sin II is one of the most captivating role-playing games ever made. Its immaculately conceived and emotion-wrought fantasy world, topped by brilliant tactical combat, make it one of the finest games of the year thus far, and it has to be regarded as an instant classic in the pantheon of RPG greats." [read the full review] -- Brett Todd Note: Divinity: Original Sin II is coming to PS4 and Xbox One in August.
Total War: Warhammer II -- 9/10
"With Warhammer II, Total War doesn't reinvent anything so much as it iterates on the ideas that made the first so special. At its heart there's still the marriage of Total War's big-scale strategy and Warhammer's precise tactical play. But, through a thousand tiny tweaks, they've refined the experience into one of the most intriguing and exciting strategy games ever." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
The Red Strings Club -- 9/10
"From the game's opening piano chords, The Red String Club's futuristic exploration of themes regarding human emotion, strong writing, and exciting situations create an experience that is deeply gratifying. The cast of relatable, three-dimensional characters elevate the stakes of every bullet fired, secret divulged and cocktail poured. They are flawed and dangerous, but also convey admirable human characteristics that feel inspirational. The Red Strings Club is a tense adventure about a cast of characters that endanger themselves for goals that aren't necessarily guaranteed, a rewarding journey into the human soul, and a game that pushes the limits of what a point-and-click adventure can do." [read the full review] -- David Rayfield
Civilization VI -- 9/10
"Civ 6 has a few rough edges, but they're pushed far into the periphery by spectacular strategic depth and intricate interlocking nuances. Any frustrations I experienced were immediately eclipsed by my desire to continue playing. Just one more turn, every turn, forever." [read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth Note: Civilization VI's latest expansion, Rise and Fall, received an 8/10 on GameSpot and adds "several key features that both complement and change up the base game." You can read our full review for more.
Endless Space 2 -- 8/10
"4X space sims have long been known as the territory of the serious strategy gamer, but Amplitude has broken away from the pack here. Outstanding depth and tactical challenge have been preserved, although not at the expense of the strong storytelling needed to emphasize the sense of awe and wonder in galactic exploration that's always been a huge part of the genre's appeal. Amplitude has done a masterful job combining these two elements into a single game, where the quests and strategy and politics and economy are all tied into a whole much greater than the sum of its parts." [read the full review] -- Brett Todd
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III -- 8/10
"An odd chimera of its forebears, there's a lot in this fast-paced RTS that's a little bit off. Parts of the interface don't work sometimes, inter-match army management is half-baked, and the micromanagement needed to use the game's signature hero units effectively doesn't jibe with the extensive base-building you'll need to support them. But those problems fall away when you're in the heat of battle. Dawn of War III builds and maintains an organic tension that yields huge pay-offs, and there's nothing else quite like it." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Hacknet - Labyrinths -- 8/10
"The feeling of playing Hacknet in a dark room with headphones on and being absorbed by its engrossing puzzles and soundtrack--full of heavy beats and filthy synth sounds--feels as close as you can get to the Hollywood hacker experience. The puzzles are uniquely challenging without feeling inaccessible, and the Labyrinths expansion takes the formula further by integrating deeper investigations and adding more puzzle variety. Despite the stumbling climax and steady learning curve, Hacknet - Labyrinths is one hell of a ride that leads you down the rabbit hole and back again." [read the full review] -- James Swinbanks
Orwell -- 8/10
"Orwell is a hard experience to pull back from, even as the dirtiness of your job sinks in. It uses simple mechanics to tell a complex and engaging story, one that feels particularly relevant right now. This is a game where your choices matter and resonate, and which will leave you with plenty to think about once it's over." [read the full review] -- James O'Connor
World of Warcraft: Legion -- 9/10
"With Legion, it's hard to remember when WoW's narrative and questing were ever this strong before. Time will tell if Blizzard will serve up a healthy dose of new content to keep the expansion and game alive (a la Mists or Lich King) or if it will suffer the fate of Warlords of Draenor, but right now (about a month after the expansion's release) Blizzard has proven it can still craft an MMO experience as well as--if not better--than anyone else." [read the full review] -- Don Saas
Quadrilateral Cowboy -- 9/10
"Quadrilateral Cowboy succeeds in astonishing ways: It makes you feel like an incredibly accomplished computer hacker and agent of espionage. It creates an eccentric, thorough world that feels good to exist in and creates characters you can empathise with, despite the lack of a clear plot thread. Quadrilateral Cowboy presents you with a spectrum of moments, and each moment makes you feel great." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, AU Editor / Senior Video Producer
Total War: Warhammer -- 9/10
"When you're in the middle of a siege and you're coordinating an assault with a friend, Total War: Warhammer approaches perfection. You'll be tested on all fronts and asked to manage complex battles with broad, nuanced outcomes. Every system and piece feeds into others, and your choices make all the difference. It's a triumph of real-time strategy design, and the best the Total War series has ever been." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Offworld Trading Company -- 9/10
"It's a bit chilling to think that in Offworld you're playing out the same obsessive pursuit of capitalism that led to the fall of its finctional Earth--an event hinted at in tutorial dialogue--yet it's so recklessly entertaining and biting with its satire that I couldn't help but get lost. When combined with truly deep and intricate strategic options, Offworld is a revelation. It's almost unparalleled in the genre. Each and every game is thrilling. Every moment is a challenge. And the brutality of the free market ensures that you can never rest on your laurels, less you be quashed by the invisible hand." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Devil Daggers -- 8/10
"Most of the time, Devil Daggers finds elegance in its simplicity. By stripping the pomp of many modern shooters, it reveals the complexity beneath, molding the fundamentals into something exhilarating, something always worth one more try." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak -- 9/10
"Homeworld was always about loneliness. It was always about clarity and focus. Kharak isn't new in that regard, but it is special. It shows us that when you get things right--and excel--that formula isn't easy to exhaust. Kharak does its part to add to that, though. Its use of voice acting and efficient visuals is a brilliant addition that's far from superficial. It helps narrow the scope of what you need to manage, so that it can load you up with as much as your brain can handle. It's a fast, daunting experience that's tough to shake, making Kharak as intoxicating as Homeworld has ever been." [read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
That Dragon, Cancer -- 9/10
"It's virtually impossible to not bring one's own biases into That Dragon, Cancer, because death and disease are universal. Just as it's impossible to quantify whether the exploration of those two heavy topics is worth the time and considerable emotional energy, it's impossible to truly quantify the immeasurable value of being able to not just forever present the best version of a person to the world, but being able to earn his presence in every way his parents did." [read the full review] -- Justin Clark
The Beginner's Guide -- 8/10
"The Beginner's Guide is an absorbing journey into the thoughts and processes involved during the creation of a video game. It succeeds in helping you understand and sympathize with game developers as artists and people. It equips you with important tools to perceive and think about both video games and other mediums in intelligent ways. It's a game that lives up to its namesake--it's the beginner's guide to the meaning of video games." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, AU Editor / Senior Video Producer
Her Story -- 8/10
"We have an intimate level of knowledge about this woman in the wake of her own personal tragedy, and the strength of Her Story as a narrative experience is that even as the right clips put the truth in sharp relief, your ability to uncover it is both satisfying and horrifying. This feat of intelligence and insight sticks with you long after the credits roll." [read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Interloper -- 8/10
"Interloper distills the core elements of every good RTS and adds a little extra to put it over the top. No matter if you love or loathe traditional real-time strategy, the deep tactics and puzzle solving crammed into a nicely condensed package here come highly recommended." [read the full review] -- Brett Todd
The Stanley Parable -- 9/10
"The Stanley Parable is both a richly stimulating commentary on the nature of choice in games (and in other systems, too, like our workplaces and our families) and a game that offers some of the most enjoyable, surprising, and rewarding choices I've ever been confronted with in a game. Going the wrong way has never felt so right." [read the full review] -- Carolyn Petit
Arma 3 -- 8/10
"ARMA III is a game with few modern counterparts. The influence of Operation Flashpoint isn't felt in many current games, even the modern OF, leaving the ARMA series to lead a charge accompanied by Red Orchestra, Iron Front, and too few others. With that uniqueness comes a dedicated community willing to overlook the flaws because they crave a kind of tension and large-scale teamwork unavailable anywhere else. You should consider joining that crowd. ARMA III is a beast. It occasionally flails and moans, but once you learn how to balance yourself upon it, it gives you a marvelous, turbulent, and memorable ride." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Dota 2 -- 9/10
"The original Dota was an unexpectedly powerful blend of clashing genres and disparate elements that ended up taking over the world, and Valve's successor retains the original rules and characters while adding in a cheery free-to-play model and slick production values. The experience of playing Dota changes day by day--some evenings will be exhilarating, while others will kick your morale to the curb--but there are few games as worthy of your time investment as this. Those who choose to commit to Dota 2 will find many happy hours within this immaculate update." [read the full review] -- Martin Gaston
Antichamber -- 8.5/10
"There are moments in Antichamber that remain with you long after you've uncovered your last clue and solved your last puzzle. What has been created within its barren walls is supremely intelligent and wildly inventive, and Antichamber doesn't give up its ideals for the sake of accessibility. The few spells of frustration are fleeting and never compromise Antichamber's powerful achievements in design and style. 'Every journey is a series of choices,' you're told at the beginning of your adventure. You should choose to begin yours in Antichamber: it really is quite unlike anything else." [read the full review] -- Mark Walton
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 05:12 am
John Wick Chapter 3 is coming for you.
John Wick has become one of the preeminent action series of this generation. Keanu Reeves can't be stopped, and stunt guy-turned-director Chad Stahelski is right there with him, helming 2014's John Wick and last year's John Wick Chapter 2 to acclaim from critics and fans alike. With John Wick 3's release date approaching next year--and news trickling out with production well underway--Wick has been on our minds lately. The second entry in the John Wick trilogy saw the Boogeyman becoming hopelessly entangled with the surprisingly well-organized criminal underworld he'd once hoped to leave behind. With the stakes higher than ever for John and his canine pal, John Wick 3 is going to have to hit a high bar to please fans. So what do we want from the third John Wick movie's action, story, and world? Let us give you an idea, then tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
1. Don't kill that f***ing dog.
The first John Wick began with Theon from Game of Thrones killing John Wick's dog. It concluded with Wick getting a new dog, after killing the s*** out of Theon and his daddy. That second dog stayed safe through John Wick 2, even after Wick's house got blown up. If the dog dies in John Wick 3, we're done.
2. Bring it back to reality.
John Wick 2 greatly expanded on the movies' criminal underworld, showing that it spans the globe and has tendrils that reach far and wide, into every level of society. By the end, it seemed that every single damn person in New York was somehow an assassin, which was awesome--but also insanely over the top. It would be great if John Wick 3 could bring the series back to reality a bit.
3. Link it to the TV show.
In case you didn't know, there's a John Wick TV show in the works over at Starz. Keanu Reeves is set to executive produce, and word is he'll even appear on the show at some point (it seems it will actually be centered on the Continental hotels rather than Wick himself). If they want the show to be successful, they'd be wise to introduce a new character in John Wick Chapter 3 who can then carry over to the small screen. They could even introduce the show's protagonist in the upcoming movie. However they do it, the TV show and movie should be linked.
4. More Charon, please.
Lance Reddick's character Charon, the Continental's desk clerk, has become a fan favorite character, not to mention an excellent dog sitter. We'd like a lot more of him in John Wick 3.
5. Don't belabor the mythology comparisons.
This is tied to keeping the series grounded in reality, but it bears mentioning separately: We get that John Wick's mythos has always been tied to classical mythology, but we don't want these movies to get too far up their own ass about it. Take the previously mentioned fan favorite character Charon. Yes, he's named after the figure in Greek mythology who ferries souls of the recently deceased across the River Styx. But we swear, if he actually shows up in a rowboat and literally ferries John Wick across a river at any point, we've had it.
6. Expand the world of assassins even more.
We saw a lot more of John Wick's criminal underworld in Chapter 2, but there's still plenty of room to expand on it in logical ways while keeping John Wick 3 grounded in reality. For example, there are probably even more uses for the underworld's currency than we've seen so far. How about some secretive armament vending machines that only take those distinctive gold coins? If you don't have enough for a gun, you can just settle for stale Doritos instead.
7. Let John Wick stick to his values.
John Wick has a strict moral code, but it started to slip as the world devolved into chaos around him in John Wick Chapter 2. He was fighting for his life against Common's character Cassian, but still, it was shocking to see Wick firing blindly into a fountain in a crowded plaza and taking potshots at his foe in a subway station full of innocent bystanders. Hopefully John Wick can get back to living his values in number 3.
8. Give John more formidable adversaries.
John Wick is really, really good at mowing down entire gangs of goons with headshot after headshot. What's better, though: Seeing him effortlessly churn through cannon fodder baddies, or go toe to toe with adversaries who can actually hold a candle to his skills? The fights with Common in John Wick 2 may have crossed a line in terms of Wick's morals, but they were some of the best in the series so far. Hopefully there are more like him out there gunning for Wick next time around.
9. Just bring back Common.
On that note, just bring back Common's character, Cassian, for another round. John left that knife lodged in his opponent's heart, so technically he could live. Maybe. Hey, it's a movie--anything could happen.
10. Bring back Lawrence Fishburne too.
Fishburne's Bowery King was one of the weirdest and most unique additions to the world of John Wick in Chapter 2. He rules an army of fake hobos, which stretched plausibility a bit, but it was a heck of a lot of fun. Now that the contract on Wick's life has gone wide, here's hoping the Bowery King returns--either to collect on that bounty, or for an epic team-up on Wick's side. The dude can't fight every battle alone, can he?
11. More dogs, please.
What's better than one dog? Two dogs-- and so on. That's all we have to say about that.
12. A bad guy-killing dog instead of the other way around?
We know this kind of already happened, but it could be so much more than a joke.
13. A happy ending.
We know this is basically impossible, given the way the last movie ended. But it would be nice for John to get an actual happy ending that isn't about to be interrupted by some criminal douche nozzle showing up to yet again wrench John violently from his desired retirement. Or, you know, at least just let him live. What do you want in John Wick Chapter 3? Let us know in the comments below.
By Matt Espineli on Jun 07, 2018 03:24 am
The Best Around
It feels just like yesterday, but PS4 launched over four years ago, and a ton of games have come out in that time. As such, it can be tough to sort through all of them and decide what to play. Luckily, we at GameSpot have played tons of PS4 over the years and have more than a few recommendations to start you off with--whether you're a new PS4 owner or have had the console and are just looking for something you might've missed. In this feature, we've collected the best PS4 games so far. This includes many of the games that have received an 8 or higher on GameSpot, and we've prioritized games that were nominated for our end-of-year Best PS4 Game lists. Check out our choices for the best games released on the PS4. And with the console's library continuing to expand, make sure to check back often as we update this feature over the coming weeks and months. For more PS4 games on a budget, see our roundups of the best cheap games on PS4, and make sure to check out our gallery of the PS4 exclusive games confirmed for 2018 as well as the biggest PS4 games of 2018 for everything coming to the console.
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life -- 8/10
"Yakuza 6 reins in its scope, but doubles down on what has made the series great. It's a unique and fascinating representation of the modern Japanese experience, worth playing even if you're a newcomer. The narrative is dramatic and sincere, and the game's endearing characters--coming from all walks of life--are interesting studies. The world is dense and rewarding to exist in, the dynamic combat system stays exciting even after you've kicked the crap out of five thousand enemies, and perhaps most importantly, Yakuza 6: The Song Of Life serves as a fulfilling conclusion to the turbulent, decade-long saga of its beloved icon, Kazuma Kiryu." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Senior Editor and Video Producer
God Of War -- 9/10
"In many ways God of War is what the series has always been. It's a spectacular action game with epic set pieces, big-budget production values, and hard-hitting combat that grows more feverish and impressive as you progress. What may surprise you is how mature its storytelling has become. Like Kratos, God of War recalls the past while acknowledging the need to improve. Everything new it does is for the better, and everything it holds onto benefits as a result. Kratos is no longer a predictable brute. God of War is no longer an old-fashioned action series. With this reboot, it confidently walks a new path that will hopefully lead to more exciting adventures to come." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Bloodborne -- 9/10
"The finest treasures are found within the city of Yharnam and the forests, lakes, and purgatories beyond it. Only Bloodborne would be so bold as to bury an entire factional player-versus-player mechanic within an optional region, which is in turn buried within a series of oblique steps you might miss if you aren't exploring every nook and cranny, or ignore the game's enigmatic hints. I finished Bloodborne in less time than I did Dark Souls II, yet I treasure it more in spite of its few missteps. In death there is life, and in blood, there is redemption. More hyperbole, yes, but for a game this theatrical, only hyperbole will do." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Monster Hunter: World -- 8/10
"Ever since the title was first announced last year, it was clear that Capcom was gunning for something grander than Monster Hunter Generations. It has succeeded, and this is likely the biggest and best that the franchise has ever been. It's not just the comparative depth of the narrative; it also boasts almost seamless integration between combat systems that were previously incomprehensible for amateurs. The Monster Hunter formula has definitely honed its claws, and all the above factors play their part in making Monster Hunter World a meaningful evolution for the series at large." [read the full review] -- Ginny Woo
Celeste -- 9/10
"It's a testament to convincing writing and ingenious design that after playing Celeste I felt like I'd been on the same journey as Madeline. Her struggle is one made easy to empathize with, her low points painful to watch, and her high notes exhilarating to experience. Her tale is delicately told and beautifully illustrated, confidently coalescing with the satisfying, empowering game it lies within. Not bad for a game about climbing a mountain." [read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus, Staff Writer
What Remains of Edith Finch -- 9/10
"Developer Giant Sparrow managed to strike the delicate balance between joy and sorrow in 2012's The Unfinished Swan, but What Remains of Edith Finch transcends even the latent sadness of that game, finding the beauty--even sometimes the fun--in what's always fundamentally a tragedy. It's not often that a game's plot slips past the bitterness of grief to finally get to the acceptance, but that's the triumph in What Remains of Edith Finch. Ultimately, if the game has any resemblance of a moral, it's that the bravest, most beautiful thing every one of us does is choose to keep going, despite knowing what's coming." [read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus -- 9/10
"The New Colossus never lets you forget who and why you're fighting. Nazi brutality is on full display, from the blown-out, irradiated remains of Manhattan to each of the resistance members, who all carry mental scars if not physical ones. You're never given a chance between cutscenes, missions, and even downtime on the U-boat to lose sight of the Reich's cruelty. Wolfenstein's tense gameplay elevates this further by giving you the power to truly resist--and come out of each battle ready for another fight." [read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Sonic Mania -- 9/10
"Sonic Mania methodically uses its sentimental appeal to great effect, but in the process, it heals the wounds inflicted by its most disappointing predecessors and surpasses the series' best with its smart and interpretive design. An excellent 2D platformer, Sonic Mania goes beyond expectations, managing to be not only a proper evolution of the series' iconic formula, but the best Sonic game ever made." [read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Stardew Valley -- 9/10
"On the surface, Stardew Valley is a game about farming, but there are more adventures awaiting curious players beyond cultivating a rich and bountiful garden. From mining and fishing to making friends and falling in love, Stardew Valley's Pelican Town is stuffed with rewarding opportunities. As modern day woes give way to pressing matters on the farm and within your newfound community, Stardew Valley's meditative activities often lead to personal reflection in the real world. It's a game that tugs at your curiosity as often as it does your heart." [read the full review] -- Mary Kish
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard -- 8/10
"By the end of the campaign, I was ready for the game to be over, but that's okay. RE7 ends just as it starts to outstay its welcome, and after the fact, I felt like I'd survived a truly harrowing journey. The boss fights may be slightly inconsistent and certain sections might drag after a while, but RE7 is still a remarkable success. It has a clear vision and executes it with impressive patience and precision. By returning to horror, Resident Evil has once again become something special." [read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
Night in the Woods -- 9/10
"Both intensely personal and widely relatable, Night in the Woods doesn't just tell a story--it gracefully captures complex, often unpleasant feelings and experiences. From the quiet melancholy of doing nothing on a rainy day to the emotional vacuum of severe depression, I felt deeply, sometimes too deeply, while wandering through the cartoon-animal version of a small Midwestern town. Its witty writing and character development keep its crushing existential themes grounded, making Night in the Woods one of the most evocative games I've played in a long time." [read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Overwatch -- 9/10
"Overwatch is an exercise in refined chaos. There are multitudes of layers hiding beneath the hectic surface, and they emerge, one after another, the more you play. This is a shooter that knows how to surprise, one that unfolds at a frantic pace, one that takes a handful of great ideas, and combines them into something spectacular." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Titanfall 2 -- 9/10
"Titanfall 2 demonstrates a vitality that its predecessor couldn't. Whereas the first Titanfall kept up its breakneck pace throughout the entirety of every match, Titanfall 2 understands that sometimes, dialing things back for a few moments can make the long run much more enjoyable. In many ways, Titanfall 2 feels like the game Respawn should have made in 2013. It's a fantastic sequel. It's a fluid shooter. It's a spectacular game." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Dishonored 2 -- 8/10
"Any time I'm given a choice between stealth and action, I go stealth. I love the hold-your-breath tension of hoping a guard didn't spot you and the hard-earned triumph of executing a perfectly timed plan. Dishonored 2 delivers that sneaky satisfaction, arming you with stealth essentials like hiding bodies, peering through keyholes, and silent takedowns. But it's also an incredible engine for gleeful chaos, one so engrossing and amusing that I kind of accidentally beat the entire campaign raining hilarious, elaborate death on my enemies." [read the full review] -- Scott Butterworth
Dark Souls III -- 8/10
"Dark Souls III is a game of valleys and peaks, down through dungeons and up over castle walls. It's a plummet into places we shouldn't be--an escape from places we don't belong. But of course, we fight our way through the darkness, and find our way out. There are a few stumbles along the way, but in the end, Dark Souls III is well worth the riveting climb." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt -- 10/10
"Where the Witcher 2 sputtered to a halt, The Witcher 3 is always in a crescendo, crafting battle scenarios that constantly one-up the last, until you reach the explosive finale and recover in the glow of the game's quiet denouement. But while the grand clashes are captivating, it is the moments between conflicts, when you drink with the local clans and bask in a trobairitz's song, that are truly inspiring." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Rise of the Tomb Raider -- 9/10
"Rise of the Tomb Raider's first shot pans over the vast, foreboding landscape we'll soon come to know. In many ways, it functions as a promise on the part of Crystal Dynamics: there are big things ahead of us. And at the end of Lara's journey, after we've seen her through this adventure, and experienced everything the world has to offer, it's clear that promise was kept." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain -- 10/10
"There has never been a game in the series with such depth to its gameplay, or so much volume in content. The best elements from the past games are here, and the new open-world gameplay adds more to love on top. When it comes to storytelling, there has never been a Metal Gear game that's so consistent in tone, daring in subject matter, and so captivating in presentation. The Phantom Pain may be a contender for one of the best action games ever made, but is undoubtedly the best Metal Gear game there is." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Fallout 4 -- 9/10
"Fallout 4 is an engrossing game that lures you in with mystery and the promise of adventure. Its wretched wasteland can be captivating, and you never know what odd person or settlement lies around the next bend. Fallout 4 uses its dark world as a canvas for exciting combat and gripping stories, and when you dig deeper into its post-nuclear-apocalypse version of Boston--defending yourself from violent scavengers and using your wits to climb social ladders--you become attached to the new you, and ultimately invested in the fate of your new world." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor -- 8/10
"This is a great game in its own right, narratively disjointed but mechanically sound, made up of excellent parts pieced together in excellent ways. I already knew what future lay in store for Middle-earth as I played Shadow of Mordor; I'm hoping that my own future might one day bring another Lord of the Rings adventure as stirring as this one." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
Dragon Age: Inquisition -- 9/10
"Inquisition's characters and world recall the grand gestures of the original Dragon Age, even though the game as a whole is so structurally different to its predecessors. It offers the thrill of discovery and the passion of camaraderie. It features a glee club called The Sing-Quisition, and a dwarf with writer's block. It establishes connections with its world in big ways and small, with the sight of a titanous temple and the smirk of an Orlesian commander in love. Dragon Age: Inquisition is a wonderful game and a lengthy pilgrimage to a magical world with vital thematic ties to one we already know." [read the full review] -- Kevin VanOrd
NBA 2K17 -- 9/10
"Despite its few drawbacks, NBA 2K17's excitement for basketball is contagious, and it's hard not to get wrapped up in it. Apart from the lacking 2KU mode and stiff recreations of commentators, the rest of the game looks great and plays even better. After finally devoting a significant amount of time to one of these games, I now see why it's such a well-regarded series, and it makes me wish that every sport got the same treatment that basketball does in NBA 2K17." -- Mat Paget
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag -- 9/10
"There's an incredible scope to what you can do in Black Flag, with a level of harmony between its component parts that encourages you to try it all, and a story that keeps you invested throughout the whole thing. If there was ever any question that Assassin's Creed needed something ambitious to get the series back on track, Black Flag is that game and then some." [read the full review] -- Shaun McInnis
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End -- 10/10
"Uncharted 4's gameplay pushes the narrative forward, the narrative feeds off its gameplay, and every detail coalesces to create something bigger. Uncharted 4 bounces between set pieces and personal moments with such grace, with such skill and poise and affection for its characters, that you don't mind when the guns stop firing, and the smoke clears, and Nathan gets a moment to breathe." [read the full review] -- Mike Mahardy, Video Producer
Until Dawn -- 8/10
"I didn't expect to have so much fun with Until Dawn, and the depth with which my choices mattered and affected the final outcome encouraged repeat playthroughs. The visuals can be wonky at times, but in the end Until Dawn succeeds in being a thoughtful use of familiar mechanics, a great achievement in player-driven narrative, and a horror game you shouldn't miss." [read the full review] -- Alexa Ray Corriea
The Last Guardian -- 9/10
"It isn't clear whether or not The Last Guardian means to be frustrating at times--if it's a concerted effort to test your patience for a lovable-yet-stubborn creature. Your affection for Trico and sympathy for both characters blossom nonetheless, culminating in an enrapturing series of revelations that cements your attachment to their personalities. Trico is the undeniable star of the show, exhibiting believable physicality and emotional range, but the boy is a valuable lesson in how to be patient and resilient when faced with unforeseen challenges. When the book closes on their story, it's hard not to open it up again and begin anew. The trials you overcome endear you to both characters, but the emotions Trico elicits make you want to give it another chance--to be the patient, effective partner it truly deserves." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Rocket League -- 9/10
"The joy of Rocket League rests on the countless plans that are conceived and discarded every other second in any given match. Trying to predict where and how the ball will bounce next is a game within the game. Despite the use of cars, Rocket League emulates the emotional surges typical of The Beautiful Game, such as the rush of an unexpected fast break or a well-timed header into a goal. With Rocket League, the promising concept of combining two wonderful things--cars and soccer--is equally magnificent in execution. You can't say the same thing about, say, combining cake and fruit to make fruitcake, as the comedian Jim Gaffigan observed." [read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice -- 8/10
"Hellblade's most notable achievement is the handling of an incredibly sensitive subject matter within an engaging and well-crafted action/adventure game. At its heart, the story is about Senua's struggle to come to terms with her illness. In the process, she learns to find the strength within herself to endure, and to make peace with her past. And in a profound and physical way, we go through those same struggles with her, and come away with a better understanding of a piece of something that many people in the world struggle with." [read the full review] -- Alessandro Fillari, Editor
MLB The Show 18 -- 9/10
"Sony's flagship baseball franchise has never been better. With its best-in-class controls and visuals, and impeccable attention to detail for the small stuff, MLB The Show 18 is worth catching for any baseball fan." [read the full review]
Horizon: Zero Dawn -- 9/10
"This is the first departure from the Killzone series for developer Guerrilla Games, and though you might think the team took a risk by stepping out of its FPS comfort zone to create a third-person open-world action game, you'd never know it was their first rodeo. For every minor imperfection, there's an element of greatness that recharges your desire to keep fighting and exploring Zero Dawn's beautiful and perilous world. Guerrilla Games has delivered one of the best open-world games of this generation, and redefined its team's reputation in the process." [read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Nier: Automata -- 9/10
"Thanks to Platinum Games' knack for riveting and gratifying combat, Automata is Yoko Taro's most exciting game to date. The combat mechanics click after hurdling a low learning curve, and the end result is a skillful dance where balletic dodges complement wushu-inspired aggression. Moreover, this multi-ending trip is generously peppered with surprises and revelations, as well as easter eggs that call back to the first game and the Drakengard series from which Nier spun off. It's a meaty, often exhilarating trek that showcases Platinum Games' and Yoko Taro's unique blend of genius." [read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Persona 5 -- 9/10
"Within Persona 5 is a complex set of interconnected gameplay mechanics, and in almost every aspect Atlus has executed on its vision exceptionally, barring the pacing issues towards the end. At every turn, it presents something to marvel at, whether it's the fluid combat, vibrant world, or the many memorable characters. It's a game I could talk about for hours; I haven't mentioned the ability to connect to the Thieves Guild, which lets you see how other players spent their day or ask them for help answering questions at school. Or the thumping acid-jazz-infused soundtrack that I've not been able to get out of my head. Or even just the joy of seeing how it stylishly transitions between menus. But that encapsulates why Persona 5 is a game that shouldn't be missed. It's stuffed to bursting point with gameplay ideas and presentation flourishes--there's an overwhelming level of artistry in every part of Persona 5, making it a truly standout entry in the series. It's a refined, effortlessly stylish RPG that will be talked about for years to come." [read the full review] -- Lucy James, Video Producer
Madden NFL 18 -- 9/10
"Overall, Madden 18 marks an unusually large shakeup in a series that, due to its annualized releases, rarely features much more than small, iterative changes. The Frostbite engine allows the game to reach new levels of realism in its visuals, and EA has put a lot of effort into constantly evolving the game to keep it in line with real-world events. But it is the Longshot story mode that defines Madden 18. Some of Longshot is unnecessary spectacle, but its lasting value comes from the humanity that it brings to the game. The moments of vulnerability and sincerity between Devin Wade and Colt Cruise during the story are worthy of celebration and give the overall game a weight that Madden hasn't had before. And if that's not enough to entice you, it's also simply a terrific football game." [read the full review] -- Alex Newhouse
Far Cry 5 -- 9/10
"Despite some brief irritations and missed opportunities with its narrative, spending time in the world of Hope County remains absolutely delightful. Far Cry 5 boasts a wonderfully harmonious flow to its adventure, with its smart changes to exploration, discovery, and progression distinctly bolstering the enjoyment of creatively engaging and experimenting with its spectacular open world." [read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Senior Producer/Editor
Transistor -- 8/10
"Transistor is always a good-looking game, but in these instances, it demonstrates a rare knack for combining its visuals and music to powerfully convey both narrative information and tone, driving the story forward with Red's own unwavering resolve. So in the end, yes, Transistor is a fun action role-playing game with a neat combat system, but beautiful moments like these make it more than that. They make it a game with a soul." [read the full review] -- Carolyn Petit
Yakuza 0 -- 8/10
"Unless you have a strong aversion to violence, sex, or middling graphics, you owe it to yourself to give Zero a chance. Its story will surprise you, its inhabitants will make you laugh at every turn, and its ambitious scope will redefine how you think about open-world games. It's a fascinating adventure no matter how you approach it, and it's proof positive that a game can be wildly inconsistent yet remain a great experience." [read the full review]
Inside -- 8/10
"This is a beautiful, haunting, and memorable game, a worthy follow-up to Limbo. Its puzzles, although rarely difficult, are engaging complements to the story. The real achievement of this game, though, is the way that it crafts its narrative: detailed environments convey the bizarre world that you travel through; introspective moments are filled with minimalist sound design and just the barest touches of music; and the things you must do to complete your journey force you to confront the realities of humanity, freedom, and existence." [read the full review] -- Alex Newhouse
Blazblue: Cross Tag Battle -- 9/10
"Whether playing through the story mode alone or against hardened opponents online, Cross Tag Battle is an absolute joy with a surplus of possibilities within its wide roster and versatile fighting system. Even with all the ridiculousness of the overarching plot, I reveled in the charm of my favorite characters and embraced the many moments of fan service. It's a masterful unification of styles and mechanics from four different universes that compels you to dig deeper and dedicate the time to getting the most out of the beloved members of this cast." [Read the full review] -- Michael Higham, Associate Editor
By Michael Rougeau on Jun 07, 2018 03:23 am
Westworld Season 2, Episode 7 spoilers ahead!
We always knew Westworld Season 2 was going to be bloody, from the moment hosts started shooting at the end of Season 1. Episode 7, "Les Ecorches," continued the trend. Blood of human and hosts alike flowed through the halls of the Mesa and beyond this week. It wasn't all fire and fury, though. There were some tender moments, like the one between Dolores and Abernathy, and plenty of massive revelations, too. We learned how Ford survived in the Cradle, and what Dolores is intending to do once she reaches the Valley Beyond. That's not all, of course. Check out everything we learned this week on Westworld, and when you're done, head over to our full Season 2, Episode 7 breakdown, and read our theories for next week while you're at it.
1. Strand is not there for a rescue mission.
That should have already been clear, but just in case, Stubbs spelled it out for us.
2. Charlotte is in deep.
Charlotte Hale is fully aware of "the project," which she says is "a turning point for the human species." Just in case you thought she might not be fully in on it.
3. There are many more Bernards.
Bernard's secret is officially out of the bag, assuming this is actually the show's "present," as it seems to be. What will this mean for Bernard? Guessing at the very least, he's going to have to find a new job.
4. Delos has virtual torture, including waterboarding.
This is probably limited to hosts. Probably.
5. Dolores did something with her father's control unit.
That might mean she stole it, hid it, or even destroyed it, to prevent Delos from gaining access.
6. The troops' vests now act as host sensors.
Like a video game radar system, the Delos response team's vests now vibrate directionally when a host is in range, interfacing with the hosts' neural mesh network. Not that it did the team much good.
7. The control unit Bernard printed was indeed Ford's.
As you probably guessed, but it was nice for the show to confirm it nonetheless.
8. The entire park is an experiment designed to "copy" guests' minds.
"The guests are the variables, and the hosts are the controls." Thanks for that illumination, Bernard. This is the fruition of the hints that William dropped back in Episode 2.
9. Ford is trapped in virtual Westworld.
His mind would degrade, just like Jim Delos's, should he try to occupy real meat space with the rest of us.
10. Lawrence is woke now.
Not great for Bill, obviously. One good deed doesn't change who you are, as we've learned.
11. If Bill lives through this, he's probably a host.
There's no other explanation for surviving multiple gut and limb shots like this, right? The remaining question will be how long he's been a host, and whether he's aware of it himself.
12. Ford is not a fan of Delos's immortality project.
We weren't 100% sure how he felt about it before he died, but virtual reality Ford here calls it "Delos's ugly little project."
13. Bernard wasn't built like Jim Delos.
Since Delos's project didn't yet exist when Arnold died--because Delos hadn't yet bought the park--the only thing Ford had to go off when creating Bernard was his and Dolores's memories of Arnold. That explains why Bernard works, whereas true copies like the Jim Delos-bot and Ford don't work in meat space. It also explains the strange conversations between Dolores and Bernard.
14. Ford is back in control.
At least where Bernard is concerned. Hopefully Ford doesn't still want Elsie taken out.
15. Ford is still helping the hosts.
Despite how it might seem. Yes, he's controlling Bernard again. But as Ford put it, "you won't have any use for [free will] unless I take it back." Presumably, he needs to help the hosts a little more before he can finally rest.
16. Elsie almost became a dentist.
Hopefully she has the chance to go back to dental school--in other words, hopefully she survives this.
17. It was indeed Ford pulling the strings from the Cradle.
Or whatever this ghost of Ford really is, be it backup, copy, or something else. But as soon as he exited the Cradle and entered Bernard's control unit, the system "debugged itself," like whatever was in there "disappeared."
18. Ford's final narrative will end in the Valley Beyond.
Ford's final game will end "where it began," as he told Bill early in the season. According to Bernard, that's the same as the Valley Beyond. Looks like everything will culminate there by the end of Season 2.
19. Dolores is planning to destroy the project.
"Your chances at eternity will die in that valley, with all the souls you've gathered there." Ice cold, Dolores.
20. The hosts destroyed their own backups.
That's why the Delos response team can't find them later on.
21. Bernard knows where Abernathy's control unit is.
And now Charlotte, Stubbs, and Strand know too. Sector 16, Zone 4 must be the Valley Beyond, right?
By Matt Espineli on Jun 07, 2018 03:16 am
The Best Switch Games So Far
After the Wii U, the release of the Nintendo Switch marked the beginning of an new generation for Nintendo. The universally praised The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild launched alongside it, giving the Switch all it needed to quickly rise to the top of console sales charts and dramatically increase Nintendo's revenue. In the year since its launch, there has been no shortage of fantastic games coming to the hybrid console, from huge first-party games like Mario and Kirby to indie darlings like Owlboy and Celeste. The library only seems to be expanding and improving with every consecutive release. In this feature, we're taking a look back at the best Switch games so far. This includes games that have received a score of 8 or higher on GameSpot since the console's release, as well as reviews for new games and updates to reviews of older games that were ported to Switch. Check out our choices for the best games released on the Switch. And with the console's library continuing to expand, make sure to check back often as we update this feature over the coming weeks and months. For an analysis of Nintendo Switch's first year, be sure to read our retrospective feature discussing the console's various successes and failures. In addition, you can also check out our features detailingall the Wii U games we ported to Switch, 13 things we want to see from the console.
BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle -- 9/10
"Whether playing through the story mode alone or against hardened opponents online, Cross Tag Battle is an absolute joy with a surplus of possibilities within its wide roster and versatile fighting system. Even with all the ridiculousness of the overarching plot, I reveled in the charm of my favorite characters and embraced the many moments of fan service. It's a masterful unification of styles and mechanics from four different universes that compels you to dig deeper and dedicate the time to getting the most out of the beloved members of this cast." [Read the full review] -- Michael Higham, Associate Editor
Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection -- 8/10
"That's more or less the story of the 30th Anniversary Collection. It won't satisfy every specific demand, but it's still a big collection of awesome games and behind-the-scenes content that no Street Fighter fan should miss. Street Fighter is a series worth celebrating and Digital Eclipse has managed to do so in a manner that feels respectful to the series and to the people who keep the spirit of arcade battles alive." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition -- 8/10
"Those returning to the fray will likely be a little disappointed as there just isn't enough new content to rouse fresh excitement. For newcomers, though, Hyrule warriors is a delightful, bizarre outing that opens up the Zelda series, taking us places we've been before, just with thousands of monsters and awesome, screen-clearing magical attacks." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Battle Chasers: Nightwar -- 8/10
"Beyond the challenge of combat, Battle Chasers is sustained through the strength of its story, a rollicking tale that takes our heroes literally to hell and back. It's bolstered by some sharp dialogue, gorgeous artwork, and an ensemble that plays extremely well off of each other. Lots of work has gone into Nightwar since its first release, and the balancing improvements make it an easy game to recommend on all platforms." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze -- 9/10
"Tropical Freeze isn't a heavy-hitter from Nintendo in the same way Breath of the Wild or Super Mario Odyssey are, but it's a fantastic platformer that's bursting with creativity and expertly designed challenges. It's tuned just right--always tough but rarely frustrating--to ensure that even the most common moments feel great. If you missed out when the game first debuted back in 2014, give it a shot today. It easily stands the test of time." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Bayonetta 2 -- 10/10
"But it's a challenge you'll want to experience again as soon as you put down the controller. Bayonetta 2's combat is so expertly constructed, and its presentation so joyously insane, that you'd have to try so very hard to get bored of it all. In a year filled with the promise of ever more elaborate experiences on all the shiny new hardware, that Bayonetta 2--a homage to classic game design and escapism--should be the most fun I've had playing a game all year is unexpected. But maybe it shouldn't have been. After all, its predecessor still stands as one of the finest games of its genre. To have surpassed that with Bayonetta 2, and to have created a game that will be remembered as an absolute classic, is nothing short of astonishing." [Read the review] -- Mark Walton
Celeste -- 9/10
"It's a testament to convincing writing and ingenious design that after playing Celeste I felt like I'd been on the same journey as Madeline. Her struggle is one made easy to empathize with, her low points painful to watch, and her high notes exhilarating to experience. Her tale is delicately told and beautifully illustrated, confidently coalescing with the satisfying, empowering game it lies within. Not bad for a game about climbing a mountain." [Read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus, Staff Writer
Dragon Quest Builders -- 8/10
"The excellence of Dragon Quest Builders illustrates the versatility of this 30-year-old franchise as much as it speaks to the engrossing appeal of Minecraft-inspired creation. The story-advancing draw of quests goes hand-in-hand with the depth of a crafting system that cleverly uses monster drops as some of the game's building tools. Whether you want to focus on completing assignments or build with no specific purpose, the game is feature-rich enough to suck up untold hours, even if this happens to be your first Dragon Quest experience." [Read the review] -- Miguel Concepcion, Editor
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim -- 8/10
"The original version of Skyrim is still an immense, engrossing RPG, and the quality, number, and variety of its quests makes it as easy to become lost in its world as ever. With the addition of Zelda-themed gear that's actually useful--and the fact that you can play anywhere--the Switch version of Skyrim is a great excuse to revisit a much-loved RPG." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Golf Story -- 8/10
"It can take a little while for the narrative to ramp up in Golf Story and for you to feel like you've really cultivated the skills of a champion, but based on the sheer scope of what the game delivers, there's likely something for everyone to enjoy whether their shtick is mini-golfing or terrorising delinquents with frisbees. It has successfully captured the trappings of yesteryear's RPGs, and the witticisms and idiosyncrasies of the characters you encounter are a great palate cleanser between rounds. Switch has had a swathe of indies hit its eShop recently, but if you're looking for something that'll give you satisfaction in terms of an interesting story and a rewarding mechanic, then Golf Story is certainly par for the course." [Read the full review] -- Ginny Woo
Gorogoa -- 8/10
"Few games take the concept of altering reality to as artistic a level as Gorogoa. This labor of love made chiefly by one developer is a gorgeous and intriguing puzzle game that works because of its stunning art and intelligent puzzle design. Far from a traditional game, Gorogoa is a slow and methodical trip into the surreal." [Read the full review] -- Jason D'Aprile
Kirby Star Allies -- 8/10
"Star Allies is yet another Kirby game, but it's up there with some of the best. It's an artistic showcase, and a great opportunity for co-op platforming. The one real complaint you can levy at it is that it gates off its more challenging aspects, but the fact that they are present to begin with will please anyone who's grown weary of the series' painless platforming." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild -- 10/10
"No matter how gorgeous its environments are, how clever its enemies are, and how tricky its puzzles get, the fact that Breath of the Wild continues to surprise you with newfound rules and possibilities after dozens of hours is by far its most valuable quality. It's a game that allows you to feel gradually more and more empowered yet simultaneously manages to retain a sense of challenge and mystery--which, together, creates a steady, consistent feeling of gratification throughout the entire experience. Breath of the Wild is a defining moment for The Legend of Zelda series, and the most impressive game Nintendo has ever created." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle -- 9/10
"Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle exudes off-beat optimism that never dissolves. It's a consistent delight, no matter how challenging the road becomes, because Kingdom Battle's unique turn-based tactics system is in every way a pleasure to engage with. Coupled with the annoyingly infectious allure of Rabbids, and the always delightful, colorful world of the Mushroom Kingdom, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is an implausibly engrossing formula that is positively challenging and endlessly charming." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe -- 9/10
"For Mario Kart fans, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe might look like more of the same with small Double Dash-inspired tweaks. But thanks to a series of updates both big and almost unseen, it's the version of Mario Kart to get. If you don't own a Wii U or skipped out on Mario Kart 8 the first time around--or even if you've played it before--Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is worth your time. It plays beautifully on Switch in both handheld and docked mode, and its core racing is as exciting as ever. And, most notably, it completely revamps the original's lackluster Battle Mode, rounding out an already great racing game." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Mr. Shifty -- 8/10
"Mr. Shifty isn't a huge game in terms of length, but the three- to four-hour campaign is ample. It's like a shot of adrenalin, offering an exciting, intense experience, and it's easy to forgive the game's performance flaws when it so consistently makes you feel like a badass." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor
NBA 2K18 -- 8/10
"NBA 2K18 is a hardcore sports simulation. If you want to get good, you have to put in the work. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to improve your skills no matter how you want to play. And the fact that there's so much to do is a bonus, because on the court, NBA 2K18 is also an amazingly well-crafted experience." [Read the full review] -- Seth Macy
Night in the Woods -- 9/10
"From beginning to end to epilogue, Night in the Woods is ultimately open to individual interpretation. How you relate to it depends on your own experiences and choices, including Mae's dialogue and who you decide to spend time with. Though its charming and angsty story works well on its own merits, it's special because of how it prioritizes conveying emotion over telling a straight narrative." [Read the review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Owlboy -- 9/10
"Owlboy is consistently charming and surprising, and when its final act doubles down on every front, it's bittersweet to see it end. As you relish the outcome of the final battle and watch the closing cutscene, you can't help but reflect on the beginning of your adventure and how far the world and its inhabitants have come. You'll never be able to play Owlboy for the first time again, but the memories of its magic moments stick with you. This is more than a treat for fans of old-school games; Owlboy is a heartfelt experience that will touch anyone with an affinity for great art and storytelling." [Read the review] -- Peter Brown, Senior Reviews Editor
Pac-Man: Championship Edition 2 Plus -- 8/10
"Pac-Man: Championship Edition 2 creates an exciting dynamic where ghosts are still dangerous, but the overall game is more forgiving than the original--and it's more entertaining as a result. Arcade ports tend to be games we play in short bursts--mostly for the nostalgia factor. Pac-Man: Championship Edition 2 certainly relies on that nostalgia to a point, but it handles the classic game in a way that plays with expectations to surprise you. It's the same game enhanced in the right directions to be make an old concept fun, innovative, and challenging all over again." [Read the review] -- Jason D'Aprile
Puyo Puyo Tetris -- 8/10
"Overflowing with colorful personality, Puyo Puyo Tetris revels in its weirdness. It provides solid versions of both puzzle games and merges the two in bizarre, frantic ways that adds a fresh dash of style to these long-running series. With an array of game variations spanning single-player, along with on- and offline multiplayer, it's an incredibly meaty package that should satisfy gamers for a long time to come." [Read the full review] -- Jason D'Aprile
Rive -- 8/10
"Rive is demanding, but it pushes the kind of near-thoughtless play that shoot-em-ups strive to achieve. When faced with an onslaught of enemies and environmental hazards, you'll have to think fast or die. Rive also doesn't run all that long, but what's here is excellent, top-notch action, and the game delivers some of the most memorable moments in a shoot-em-up in years." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Rocket League -- 9/10
"For people new to the game, they have a lot to look forward to regardless, as it's one of the most fascinating sports games in memory. Nevermind if you don't like soccer or couldn't care less about the growing esports community. Rocket League is a unique game that redefines the concept of what a sports game can be, and Psyonix continues to support it with new content on a regular basis. It's been around for a while, but now that it's on Switch, there's no better time to give it a shot." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment -- 8/10
"Specter of Torment is a finely-crafted 2D platformer that is satisfying in all respects. Simply controlling Specter Knight--flying through the air and slicing through enemies--is a joy in itself, and being able to push your ability to control these skills in overcoming the game's cleverly-designed and challenging levels is always an exhilarating feeling. Specter of Torment is a focussed, polished, and satisfyingly challenging game that's well worth experiencing whether or not you've had the pleasure of playing Shovel Knight." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor
Sonic Mania -- 9/10
"Sonic Mania methodically uses its sentimental appeal to great effect, but in the process, it heals the wounds inflicted by its most disappointing predecessors and surpasses the series' best with its smart and interpretive design. An excellent 2D platformer, Sonic Mania goes beyond expectations, managing to be not only a proper evolution of the series' iconic formula, but the best Sonic game ever made." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Splatoon 2 -- 8/10
"At first glance, Splatoon 2 seems very similar to the first game. But all the small changes, and even the bigger ones in single player and League Battles, make for a fresh take on the already unique shooter. If you played a lot of the original, the sequel has enough to keep you coming back, and if you're new to the game, it's a fantastic place to jump in." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Stardew Valley -- 9/10
"The sheer number of things to accomplish in Stardew Valley can keep you interested beyond the original three in-game years you need to reach the end of your story--you may just want to start over rather than continue on. You'll work quite hard to gather enough money for your first horse, so that you can quickly move to the mines to get a mineral to complete a bundle at the community center. It's all centered around whatever it is you want to accomplish that day. And that's truly what makes Stardew Valley such a lovely experience, it encourages you to go out and be the best you can be, in whichever task that brings you the most joy. Stardew Valley motivates naturally, with blissful optimism." [Read the full review] -- Mary Kish
SteamWorld Dig 2 -- 9/10
"Every advancement Dig 2 makes to its story and mechanics strengthens your initiative to progress. There's an overwhelming sense of momentum that runs through the adventure; as if developer Image & Form sifted the original in a pan, removing its redundancies while expanding upon what made it so fun to persistently play. In your quest to acquire every upgrade and explore every nook and cranny, there's no shortage of hidden collectables to discover. And with post-game content that unlocks after you unearth every secret, the desire to keep digging intensifies. Dig 2 manages to not only be an exceptional successor, but a great adventure in its own right. Where the first game was a diamond in the rough, Dig 2 is a polished jewel." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Super Mario Odyssey -- 10/10
"Odyssey is sustained beyond its major milestones not only through colorful worlds and hidden challenges, but through the sheer joy of controlling Mario, who's never felt more responsive or dynamic in action. Even with everything new that's been introduced, Nintendo's forward-thinking platformer retains the series' classic handcrafted appeal, which is even more impressive when you realize how densely packed each kingdom is. Mario's latest outing is big, bold, and bursting with new ideas, and like Breath of the Wild, is another instance of Nintendo going above and beyond to redefine our expectations. It's a shining example of refined creativity, and another crown jewel for Switch that is without equal." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 03:15 am
Whether they're direct continuations that carry on the events of the previous game or unrelated follow-ups that share a general theme, gamers love--and love to hate--video game sequels. While you can argue that the emphasis on sequels seems to overshadow the creation of new, original IP, sometimes sequels produce unique experiences in their own right. Like the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild--the characters and themes are the same, but the game was a refreshing take on the entire open-world genre. Sequels are a huge part of game development, but most creators shy away from revealing what they have in the works too early. With E3 2018 coming up, there are potentially some big-name sequels primed to be revealed. So in this feature, we've gathered together our wishlist of games that deserve sequels, or unannounced games that potentially could be announced at this year's E3. Some are a little more far-fetched than others; Grand Theft Auto VI, outside of Rockstar Games seeming like it always disappears off the face of the planet, is going to happen someday soon. Bethesda will likely make an Elder Scrolls 6, and there are already rumors circulating of a new Bioshock. But Bloodborne 2, Bully 3, and Portal 3? Those aren't necessarily guaranteed. This isn't a definitive list of every game that we want a sequel to, but it represents some of the titles the GameSpot editors feel most strongly about and would love to see appear at E3 2018. What unannounced games do you hope get a surprise announcement at this year's E3 or other gaming event? Let us know in the comments below! Otherwise, be sure to keep up on our upcoming E3 2018 coverage. You can get up to speed on the big press conferences through our E3 2018 schedule.
Animal Crossing | Switch
Nintendo hasn't said explicitly it's working on a Switch version of Animal Crossing, but one is almost definitely in the works. With Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp on mobile last year, the company only whetted the appetite of fans who want a full-fledged entry in the relaxing life sim. And although Pocket Camp is surprisingly robust for a mobile game, it's still missing many of the most important elements of the Animal Crossing franchise: a large list of collectible wildlife, the ability to write letters and notes to your townsfolk, and customization options for your villagers' catchphrases. Pocket Camp is Animal Crossing in spirit, but not quite in execution. But that mobile release does seem to portend that the next chapter on Animal Crossing, this time on Switch, is imminent. Nintendo has stated that the core purpose of its mobile games is less about making money and more about keeping people engaged with its core franchises. For Animal Crossing, all that's left is the follow-through. What new features a Switch release of the game could bring is anyone's guess, but we imagine a large roster of potential neighbors and a more active way to connect and interact with other Animal Crossing players online. | Justin Haywald
BioShock 4 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Where the original BioShock launched to praise from fans and critics alike, the third and most recent game in the series--BioShock Infinite--divided opinion somewhat when it came out in 2013. While some--including our own reviewer--loved it, others felt it turned the series too far towards shooter territory, and the story felt muddled. Time, then, for a new game in the series to unite everyone behind BioShock once again. One that can bring BioShock back to what everyone loved in the first place--its mystery, its atmosphere, its storytelling, and yes, its inventive powers--while also taking it to new frontiers. We've now done underwater and above the clouds; perhaps BioShock 4 could deliver another shock to our systems by taking us to space? | Oscar Dayus
Bloodborne 2 | PS4
From Software's Bloodborne forces Souls players to step outside of their comfort zone; to stop peeking at horrors from behind a shield and instead charge headfirst into them. Its gameplay focuses on bluster and brutality, but feels like a delicate dance of sword swings, explosive gunshots, and timed dashes. However, what really elevates Bloodborne is Yarnham, the mysterious gothic city where disease-ridden inhabitants wander around squalid streets, mindlessly attacking all that approach. It's also a place where science clashes with faith, factions battle over ideologies, and the presence of an unseen cosmic evil pervades. Bloodborne was both critically and commercially successful and, most importantly, fans of it are desperate for more. From Software recently teased a new project that adopts the studio's distinct style, but the use of the phrase "shadows die twice" could be hinting at something entirely new. A new From Software game is exciting, but we can't help but hold on to hopes of returning to the Bloodborne universe. The sweet blood, it sings to us. | Tamoor Hussain
Bully 2 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Leading up to Bully (2006), Rockstar had been best known for hyper-violent games like Grand Theft Auto, Max Payne, and Manhunt. Then the developer adapted many of the core tenets that made those games great to craft an earnest, yet over-the-top tale of a troublemaker thrust into a private boarding school. Stereotypical cliques filled the student body at Bullworth Academy and painted a lively caricature of high school. It was your job as Jimmy Hopkins to navigate the dangerous waters of Bullworth and try not to get kicked out, all while trying to become the baddest, most respected fool on campus. Getting to class on time (presented as minigames), getting in fights, and causing all sorts of mischief makes up most of the game, but Bullworth and its surrounding town is also a believable place full of life. Not many games have topped the soundtrack's funky basslines and whimsical xylophone melodies either. Despite being twelve years old and one of Rockstar's best games, it never got a follow-up (although it was remastered). There have been rumblings throughout the years of a possible sequel; producer and lead writer Dan Houser said he had ideas for a Bully 2 back in 2013, and concept art believed to be tied to a sequel was shown last year. That's the extent of our hopes, though. Rockstar's portfolio has evolved since 2006: GTA continues to succeed, Red Dead emerged as a huge franchise, and LA Noire showed that action can take a back seat to story. With a resume like that, it's a lot of fun to imagine what Bully 2 could be.| Michael Higham
Bushido Blade 3 | PS4, X1, PC, Switch
Bushido Blade was a 3D, one-on-one sword-fighting game for PlayStation that was uniquely unforgiving. With no health bars, landing a clean hit on your opponent meant a crippled limb, if not instant bloody death. Tension was the name of the game, where every standoff was a strenuous task of reading your opponent, playing mind games and exercising quick reflexes. It was also a game concerned with maintaining honorable disposition and respecting your opponent. Bowing formally before a match, fighting fair, and never stabbing your opponent in the back was encouraged, and enhanced the game's zen-like appeal. But, you could also do the exact opposite: throw dirt in someone's face, kick them when they're down, and run frantically through the game's large, open arenas to search for an environment that could put your opponent and their choice of weapon at a disadvantage--a bamboo thicket could restrict naginata slashing maneuvers, a deep river could mask the movements of your katana, for example. Although Bushido Blade got a sequel in 1998, there hasn't been a a game in the last 20 years that has successfully come close to matching its understated qualities and strict mechanics. Its nearest neighbour today would be Nidhogg, if Nidhogg could be slowed to a snail's pace. In a post-Dark Souls era where players celebrate pure, unforgiving game experiences, a true Bushido Blade sequel with online competitive multiplayer is just the thing Square Enix should think about bringing back. | Edmond Tran
Diablo 4 | PS4, X1, PC
While Blizzard had a rough start with Diablo 3, they made great strides with improving the game in the years since its release. Once the expansion Reaper of Souls launched, Diablo 3 had earned its spot as one of the most impressive loot-focused action-RPG games on the market. Even now, regular updates are still ongoing, and with successful launches on PS4 and Xbox One, there's plenty of loot to go around for would-be adventurers traveling through Tristram and the underworld. Though Blizzard is still going strong with Diablo 3--along with Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Hearthstone--the developers should look to the future of loot-oriented action-RPG games and get started with Diablo 4. The series scratches a certain itch that not many other games can, and Diablo 4 can take advantage of the second-wind the series has experienced in D3's post-launch life. | Alessandro Fillari
Elder Scrolls 6 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
There's no question that Elder Scrolls 6 is happening--Todd Howard has said as much a few times now. But between myriad ports of Skyrim and Elder Scrolls Online's recent Morrowind expansion, the questions are: "What kind of game will Elder Scrolls 6 be?" and, "Where will it be set?" The series has already explored several regions of Tamriel, but there are still places we haven't been: the Argonians' Black Marsh and the wooded region of Valenwood, just to name a few. But perhaps it's time to leave Tamriel behind and explore the rest of the world of Nirn. Yokuda is a continent destroyed by an unknown cataclysmic event. Could that be a chance to marry the gameplay of Elder Scrolls with the story trappings of Bethesda's other premiere RPG franchise, Fallout? Another possibility is the land of Akavir: a continent that rivals Tamriel in size, populated by four new races at war with each other. That covers the Elder Scrolls trope of multiple factions, and thanks to several mentions throughout the franchise, we already know that those four races--snow demons, snake people, monkeys, and tiger dragons--are important to the history of the world. Plus, it's easy to fit a fancy Roman numeral into the title, as Bethesda already did once with Obl(iv)ion. Elder Scrolls: Aka(vi)r, anyone? | Tony Wilson
Elite Beat Agents 2 | Switch
There's no reason to think that a sequel to Elite Beat Agents is in the works, but with the newfound success of Nintendo Switch, the quirky rhythm game from developer iNiS is a cult classic that's due for a revival. EBA was actually a localization of the cheerleading game Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan (which got a Japanese sequel on DS), but while the two versions are the same gameplay-wise, the soundtracks and overall themes were changed drastically to make the series fit into a Western archetype. But either way, both versions were solid games that took advantage of the DS' touch screen to let you tap out rhythms in time to the music. Ports of the originals would be great for a new generation of gamers to experience, though it's likely the music licensing deals make that a difficult process. But a new version of the game that takes advantage of either the traditional controls or the unique joy-con capabilities of the Switch would be delightful--maybe a Just Dance-style game that tracks your hand movements as you go through the game's on-screen choreography? | Justin Haywald
GTA 6 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
The last Grand Theft Auto game doesn't feel like it came out almost five years ago. Of course, that's partly due to the fact that its roll-out across Sony and Microsoft's consoles and then PC took three years. But it's also because the game is still consistently in the top 10 best-selling games of every month (here it is as number 10 for December and number 6 for the best-selling game of 2017). Although the GTA games are known for their multi-layered, single-player stories, GTAV's continued success is primarily driven by its multiplayer GTA Online mode. A sandbox set in GTAV's world, the game has captured such a large portion of Rockstar's resources that the long-ago promised single-player expansion has been dumped. But surprisingly, it's both not something that gamers seem to be clamoring for, and it hasn't affected the adoption of the game sales-wise. GTAV casts a long shadow, and it'll be interesting to see how its open-world model will affect the upcoming Red Dead Redemption 2. But it'll also be worth keeping an eye on how it affects the inevitable GTA VI. At some point, V's popularity will start to wane and we'll get another entry in the GTA world. But will this next game be a multiplayer-only experience that borrows both from elements that make GTA Online such a continuing success and other popular online games like Destiny 2? Or will GTAVI be a return to the single-player narrative with an even more robust online mode that just happens to exist alongside it? It's also worth noting that the gap between GTAIV and GTAV was only five years, so it's possible a new chapter in the rampant crime saga might be closer than you'd expect. | Justin Haywald
Horizon: Zero Dawn 2 | PS4
Despite exclusively making shooters for its first decade-and-a-half of existence, Guerrilla Games tried something very different with Horizon: Zero Dawn, and it more than succeeded. Guerrilla's debut open-world effort was impressive on a number of fronts, including its Monster Hunter-style combat and gorgeous visuals. But as with the first entry in any series, it had a number of areas that stand to be improved. Although combat encounters could be intense and memorable, that was only really the case at range--melee combat was simplistic and boring. Navigating anything but flat surfaces could be a frustrating chore, particularly in comparison to Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which made climbing so effortless. The bulk of the narrative, while interesting, was told through exposition dumps where you'd stand around and simply listen to someone talk. Improvements to these areas, combined with Guerrilla continuing to amaze from a technical standpoint (which we got a taste of with Zero Dawn DLC The Frozen Wilds' improved snow effects), would make Horizon 2 something really special. | Chris Pereira
Metal Gear Solid 6 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
After Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima left Konami in 2015, fans began to question the series' future and whether a new entry would be warranted. Months passed until publisher Konami finally revealed the next game in the long-running franchise: a survival-focused co-op spin-off with zombies, called Metal Gear Survive. As you'd expect, fan backlash was understandably negative, as it seemed diametrically opposed to the series' lineage. At the same time, it left questions as to whether or not Konami would ever develop a true successor or reboot. While a new mainline Metal Gear Solid game not directed by Kojima raises alarms for hardcore fans, it's difficult to rule out how awesome it would be if Konami managed to let an ambitious studio build upon the series' foundations or provide a completely new vision of what Metal Gear can be for its sixth entry. After all, a Metal Gear game doesn't necessarily need Kojima to be good or interesting. You need only look to franchise spin-offs like Metal Gear Rising and Metal Gear Solid (GBC), which each played incredibly well despite lacking Kojima's involvement. But imagine the possibilities of what Metal Gear Solid 6 could be: a game starring The Boss during WWII, that Grey Fox spin-off we always wanted, or maybe an entirely new game starring a fresh face mercenary/government agent in a far-future, post-MGS4 world? The Metal Gear series' universe is ripe with characters and concepts that could be used to create a fascinating new entry in the tenured franchise. Regardless of whatever shape or form it takes, we're hoping Konami takes full advantage of Metal Gear's rich history for whatever it has in mind for the series now that Metal Gear Survive is out. | Matt Espineli
No One Lives Forever 3 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Even before the saturation of first-person shooters in the mid-to-late 2000s, there were so many great single-player FPS games on PC. Medal of Honor: Allied Assault and the original Call of Duty were staples of the genre, but nothing had quite the charm of No One Lives Forever 2: A Spy in H.A.R.M.'s Way. For those not familiar, imagine the grandeur of James Bond and the absurdity of Austin Powers wrapped in an espionage tale with the highly capable operative Cate Archer at the helm. This was the foundation for a well-crafted shooter set in the Cold War era that took you across the world for hilariously ridiculous missions. Anyone who played it will never forget its incredibly adorable soundtrack, which so perfectly captured the campy spy theme. That was 2002, and 16 years later, little-to-no hope is out there for Cate Archer's return. NOLF 2 and its predecessor The Operative: No One Lives Forever are cult classics, but over time, the rights to the franchise went into a sort of limbo. Both games were developed by Monolith (known for the recent Middle-earth games), but were published by Fox Interactive. Fox was acquired by Vivendi, which merged with and separated from Activision. However, Monolith is now under Warner Bros. So, who the hell knows which company can even revive the series. Regardless, we're holding out hope that this series lives to die another day. | Michael Higham
Portal 3 | PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Why hasn't this happened already? Portal and Portal 2 are masterpieces, with the 2011 sequel successfully expanding on the first game's amazing puzzle game base with an intriguing story, improved script, and more diverse environments. A third game would surely be even better. It wouldn't even have to do much! It's been long enough that just more Portal would likely be satisfactory for a lot of people. But this is Valve we're talking about. As we all know, this company doesn't just make games for the sake of it. The developer even seems happy to almost troll its own fans by allowing other companies to use the Portal license in their own games: the past few years have seen Rocket League and Lego Dimensions recieve Portal-related content, and last year we even got a full game crossover with Bridge Constructor. And yet, still no proper sequel. We might be waiting a long time for Portal 3. If only those wormholes allowed us to travel through time... | Oscar Dayus
Silent Hills | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Despite game director Hideo Kojima's very public departure from Konami, the company is still seems adamant about supporting the auteur's Metal Gear series. Kojima was also tied to the next game in Konami's Silent Hill franchise, and while that project (a collaboration with film director Guillermo del Toro and actor Norman Reedus) is canceled, Konami has publicly stated that the Silent Hill franchise will continue on at some point. And despite Konami's issues, Silent Hill is still a tortured video game location that we'd want to visit again. Spanning multiple developers and a wide range of protagonists, the series is uniquely positioned for a follow-up that doesn't strictly adhere to the games of the past. And a success with the long-running horror franchise could potentially mitigate the disastrous PR left by Kojima's departure. It seems like a sure thing that Konami will get around to making another entry in the franchise, and even though it would've been fascinating to see what a horror mashup between Kojmia and del Toro would have been like, we'll likely get a taste of that in Death Stranding. The next Silent Hill will be a new creature, but what form it takes has yet to be decided. Hopefully, it can return to its critically acclaimed roots, and avoid being another average spin-off like Downpour and Book of Memories. | Justin Haywald
Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic 3 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Though there have been many games that have taken advantage of the Star Wars brand to great effect, one title in particular has stood out for many fans of the storied franchise. Bioware's narrative-focused RPG Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic followed the adventures of an up-and-coming Jedi and their crew as they explored the galaxy, thousands of years before the rise of the Empire. At its time, it was a rather seminal game for the Star Wars series. Instead of shoehorning new characters into established lore and repeating moments from the films, this RPG title told its own story with a memorable cast of characters. While KOTOR had two sequels, one of which was the moderately successful MMO The Old Republic, there's been a yearning for a third game focusing on the single player experience with modern visuals and systems. However, much has changed with the Star Wars IP in recent years, and making a direct sequel isn't so clear cut. With Disney having acquired the Star Wars license, while also jettisoning much of the material from the 40-years of expanded universe fiction--including the plot of KOTOR--a follow-up would have to be a reboot. While this may draw the ire of hardcore fans, this also presents a wonderful opportunity to tell fresh stories with new characters. A Star Wars RPG seems well overdue, and with Bioware a part of EA--and with the publisher currently possessing the exclusive rights to produce Star Wars games--the timing seems perfect for the original developers to return to the Star Wars universe. Which should totally happen sooner, rather than later. | Alessandro Fillari
Super Mario Maker 2 | Switch
Mario Maker was one of the last hurrahs for Wii U owners, and what an event it was. It offered a chance for people to get creative with one of gaming's greatest icons, share Mario levels they've created online, and browse through thousands of levels made by other passionate players across the globe. If you followed game culture in 2015 and 2016, you probably saw plenty of people sharing videos of tremendously difficult stages being bested by skilled (or lucky) players; a testament to the game's widespread popularity and its effectiveness as a game creation tool. The Wii U GamePad touchscreen made the process of creating and editing levels a breeze, and all it takes is one look at your Switch to realize that it's built for a game like Mario Maker. Given that Switch's online environment is still a work in progress, it's understandable why Nintendo isn't rushing to make it happen, but given the massive Switch install base (relative to Wii U), it's easy to imagine that we'll see the next Maker game sometime down the road. | Peter Brown
Super Mario RPG 2 | Switch
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars blessed the SNES back in 1996, where our franchise favorite characters banded together to fight common enemies throughout the Mushroom Kingdom… in the form of a turn-based RPG. Squaresoft had created Final Fantasy VI, Chrono Trigger, and Secret of Mana by this time, but to wrap its refined RPG elements in the Mario universe made for one of the best mash-up/collaborations ever. Bowser was driven out of his castle, Peach was fed up with being held captive, and newcomers Geno and Mallow joined Mario in an adventure through new places that gave a nod to what we've seen in previous Mario games. What tied everything together and ingrained this game into our memories was the catchy, joyful soundtrack full of songs with layered instrumentation. You've probably heard the infectious "Beware the Forest Mushrooms" before. And shout out to those that fought Culex to the rearrangement of Final Fantasy IV's boss battle theme. Paper Mario, and its follow-up The Thousand Year Door, are incredible games in their own right, but are essentially spiritual successors separate from the world that was built in Legend of the Seven Stars. In this day and age however, the appetite for Mario spin-offs is strong; we got a tactical strategy game with Rabbids, and a remake of Superstar Saga on 3DS just in the last year. A proper follow up RPG should be on the shortlist for future Switch games. Of course, this is just wishful thinking given that there are no rumors, leaks, or cryptic messages from Nintendo that would indicate a true successor to one of its greatest games. | Michael Higham
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 01:28 am
There's a lot of excitement for Nintendo's upcoming Direct at E3 2018. The company has achieved massive success since the Switch's launch thanks to its hybrid functionality and amazing roster of first-party and third-party games. And with highly-anticipated games in its upcoming lineup, like Pokemon, Metroid Prime 4, and Super Smash Bros., many are clamoring for more details and announcements. In addition to Switch, Nintendo also continues to support the 3DS, consistently announcing new games for the seven-year old handheld. For both platforms, it's fair to say the focus is going to be on gameplay and trailers for many of the games we already know are releasing this holiday, as well as a slate of new and unannounced games. Here are some of the biggest Switch and 3DS games we're certain are going to appear at E3. Many of these games have been announced, but others are ones we believe will show up based on the list of companies on the official E3 homepage. The first potential look we'll get at most of these games will be during the press conferences before E3 begins. To make sure you're up to date with the times as well as the location for our E3 video streams, we have a hub rounding up all of that info as well. The following games are only a small sampling of all the exciting titles that will likely come out of E3, and be sure to check out our editor's picks for the games we're most anticipating. What games do you hope to learn more about at the show? Let us know in the comments below.
Bayonetta 3
Bayonetta 3 is the latest entry in the critically acclaimed character-action game series by developer Platinum Games. Revealed at The Game Awards 2017, little has been said about the game since. In the years before its reveal, series creator Hideki Kamiya had often discussed the possibility of a third game. Both Kamiya and Bayonetta 2 director Yusuke Hashimoto expressed interest in a new entry and stated that they still had ideas they'd love to pursue in future games. Bayonetta 3 will be a Switch exclusive, as Nintendo is funding its development--similar to Bayonetta 2 for Wii U. With so little known about Bayonetta 3, there's still so much to learn, and we're hoping that E3 2018 will be the platform that both Nintendo and Platinum Games uses to discuss it.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Renowned Castlevania developer Koji Igarashi is almost ready to launch his first project after striking out from Konami, and if you're familiar with his past, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night shouldn't come as too much of a surprise. This side-scrolling action game is set in an anime-tinged gothic world built on top of a sprawling map, with plenty of puzzles, boss battles, and upgrades to uncover. Originally pitched on Kickstarter back in 2015 (a campaign that was fully funded in a single day), Bloodstained is currently set to launch on Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC sometime in 2018. Igarashi and his co-developers from Inti Creates might as well take advantage of E3 to keep spreading the word, but a recent surprise announcement has already captured the attention of fans of old-school side-scrollers. A few weeks before E3, an original 8-bit Castlevania-esque game was given to backers and put up on most digital storefronts for about $10. Anyone interested in Bloodstained's ongoing development can follow the latest announcements over at the game's Kickstarter page. Be sure to keep an eye on the date next to the posts! Igarashi and co pulled a fast one when they announced that Bloodstained would passively mine digital currencies. Thankfully, this one was just an April fool's joke.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Nintendo announced in March that underrated Wii U game Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker would be coming to both Switch and 3DS. The charming platformer stars Captain Toad, who can't jump; instead, you rotate the map to find clever ways around obstacles. The updated version adds new content, including a New Donk City-themed level based on last year's Super Mario Odyssey (in which Captain Toad had a cameo). The Switch version will have two-player local multiplayer where each player uses a Joy-Con, one controlling Toad and the other providing support. The 3DS version features 3D support and touch controls. Both versions launch in July.
Dark Souls Remastered
Nintendo announced the Switch version of Dark Souls Remastered during a Direct presentation in January. It said the the Switch version would come with the Artorias of the Abyss DLC and display the game at 1080p resolution with 30 FPS when played in TV mode. That sounds pretty good, but it was supposed to release on May 24, the same day it came out on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. But publisher Bandai Namco announced in April that the Switch version--along with the Solaire of Astora Amiibo--had been delayed to this summer. The big question is why. Is it having trouble getting it to run smoothly on the Switch hardware? Did it decide to prioritize ironing bugs out of the other versions instead of launching the Switch version on time? We don't know. Let's hope all of the promises about Dark Souls Remastered running smoothly on Switch remain true when it finally launches this summer.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Will the eleventh core entry in the Dragon Quest saga finally be the one to break through to mainstream western success? The last major DQ game was back in 2010--Sentinels of the Starry Skies on the Nintendo DS--and Nintendo's 3DS handhelds have gotten reissues of the earlier entries in the series since. But outside of the offshoot Dragon Quest Heroes games, this'll be the first entry on home consoles since the PS2 era and the first time the series will be available on PC (in the West) ever. The alliterative title illustrates Dragon Quest's playful nature, and the colorful enemies and turn-based combat are mainstays of the series. But longtime fans know that Dragon Quest's charm comes from its endearing stories and puns that rival Monster Hunter's loquacious wordplay. And the possibility of yet another great game on Switch makes the wait for DQ11 all the more difficult.
Mario Tennis Aces
Mario might dabble in a lot of sports, but Tennis seems to be his true passion. Mario Tennis Aces marks the eighth dedicated Mario tennis game, putting it on the same level as the Mario Kart series. And while this version will include the same in-depth playing mechanics as previous entries, it will also incorporate some Wii Sports-like physicality. Players will be able to swing their joy-con like a racket to serve up a more visceral on-the-court experience. While Aces will include new characters (including a large but surprisingly spry-looking Chain Chomp), the biggest change this time around comes from the outfits. Mario is finally getting rid of the overalls in order to play tennis in shorts and a polo shirt. In every previous game, Mario has retained his trademark plumbers outfit. But this time, he's going for a comfortably sporty look. Just kidding. The bigger change is the adventure-like RPG mode. There's a story to explore that centers around a mystical racket along with bosses to battle and minigames to conquer. But those outfits are pretty fun too, right?
Fire Emblem for Nintendo Switch
A new, mainline Fire Emblem game for Switch was announced in January 2017 alongside Fire Emblem Echoes for 3DS and Fire Emblem Warriors. Both Echoes and Warriors have since released, but we haven't heard anything more about the upcoming entry into the main series. It will be the first time since 2007's Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn that a main Fire Emblem game has launched on a Nintendo home console (as opposed to a handheld). Of course, it'll still be portable, too, thanks to Switch. Last we heard, the game is scheduled to launch in 2018. If that's still true, it's likely we'll hear more about it at E3.
Luigi's Mansion
In a Direct back in March, Nintendo announced a 3DS remake of 2001 GameCube game Luigi's Mansion. It unsurprisingly stars Luigi, who has to investigate a ghost-filled mansion using a vacuum that can suck up the ghosts. The 3DS version features the same story and levels as the original, but it adds a map of the mansion on the bottom screen, improved visuals, and a new Boss Rush mode. It's slated to launch later this year, though no release date has been confirmed yet.
Mega Man 11
For several years, it seemed Capcom wouldn't be releasing any more new Mega Man games. Since the character creator Keiji Inafune's departure from Capcom, little had been announced for the fan-favorite blue bomber. However, Capcom has since focused more on supporting Mega Man, having since released several collections of the character's most iconic games on modern platforms. This ultimately paved way for the upcoming Mega Man 11, which was announced late last year to commemorate the character's 30th anniversary. Unlike past games, Mega Man 11 features 3D polygonal characters and environments. Aside from the new visual style, the game seems to play like classic games in the series. Since its reveal trailer, we've heard little about Mega Man 11. However, if there's any time that Capcom should talk about the game, it's E3. After all, the game is scheduled to release later this year, so we're hoping to that Capcom goes into more detail about the blue bomber's latest adventure.
Metroid Prime 4
Beyond the fact that Metroid Prime 4 exists and is coming to Switch at some point in the future, there's very little we can say about the game with absolute certainty. We also know that longtime Prime producer Kensuke Tanabe will lead a new team of talented developers for the project, but what that studio is and who is on the team beyond Tanabe remains a mystery. With nary an official word from Nintendo following the announcement at E3 2017-- consisting of a teaser video set against a star field, with familiar Metroid music, and the reveal of a logo--we are left to sift through rumors and wonder. The current working theories include: Bandai Namco is co-developing, it is scheduled to launch in 2018, and it may feature the character Sylux, who was confirmed by Tanabe to be in a spaceship featured in the special ending of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. What we know about Sylux is mostly based on lore introduced in Nintendo DS's Metroid Prime: Hunters and, oddly enough, Super Smash Bros. Brawl (in a trophy description). But at the end of 2017's Metroid Prime: Federation Force, we also caught a glimpse of Sylux releasing a metroid from captivity. Is it a hint? Only time will tell.
Octopath Traveler
Octopath Traveler is a gorgeous game. For those who played SNES RPGs back in the '90s, Octopath doesn't just look like those old-school games; it looks the way you remember them. The game is an evolutionary offshoot to a world where game development didn't take a hard turn into more realistic, 3D worlds. The quirky name refers to the eight different characters and their intersecting stories as well as representing the game's unique mechanics. While E3 will show off a new portion of abilities and gameplay, the Nintendo Switch still has a free demo available for anyone who wants to try out the game early.
Pokemon for Nintendo Switch
At last year's E3, Nintendo announced a new Pokemon game for Nintendo Switch. The tease didn't include a title, logo, key art, or really any details at all--just that series developer Game Freak would be making the game, which will be a "core RPG" that "may not release for over a year." It's been a year now, of course, and although nothing has been confirmed for E3, it would make sense for Nintendo to give more details soon.
Shin Megami Tensei V
Persona 4 and Persona 5 elevated the Japanese RPG series to new heights in the West, but Shin Megami Tensei, the series Persona spun off from, remains a niche product despite having been around for the better part of three decades. With the upcoming release of Shin Megami Tensei V on Nintendo Switch, Atlus has a chance to bring new people into the fold, and while little is known about the game thus far, there's a good chance that Nintendo or Atlus will reveal more at E3. When SMT V was first announced in 2017, producer Kazuyuki Yamai stated that the game's metropolitan setting and story would invoke contemporary social concerns such as unemployment and the threat of nuclear war to form the basis of its story. Of course, the series is also well known for presenting cities (Tokyo, usually) overrun by demons, and that will be the case once again. Given that this will be the first HD game in the series, Yamai pointed out the 3D modelling process for the many demons in the game (and their combined fused forms) will take three times as long as it did for the previous games. There's currently no firm release date in sight, but according to the official english website, SMT V is "coming soon to the Americas and Europe."
Super Smash Bros.
After a bit of a wait, the next Super Smash Bros. game is confirmed for Switch! Details are scarce, but we do know that Splatoon's Inklings will join the roster for the first time, and there are of course characters we expect to return (including Mario and Bowser, judging by the silhouettes in the reveal trailer). We also know that Nintendo will be holding a Smash Bros. Switch invitational tournament during E3, and it will be playable on the show floor for attendees. As a result, we can expect to get more information about the game--like whether it's a souped-up port of Smash Bros. on Wii U or an entirely new entry from the ground up--very soon.
Valkyria Chronicles 4
If you ever wanted an anime-esque tactical RPG in the modern era, you'll want to dive into the Valkyria Chronicles series. It's known for a unique blend of real-time controls within a turn-based strategy framework, but also for how it draws inspiration from World War II and European military history for its fiction. Valkyria Chronicles 4 continues the series' story of the Second Europan War fought on the continent of Europa between Atlantic Federation and the Eastern Imperial Alliance, but it instead focuses on the smaller stories taking place throughout the conflict. This will be the first mainline Valkyria Chronicles entry for major platforms since the first game, which released in 2008. Valkyria Chronicles 2 and 3 were exclusive to the PlayStation Portable, and the third game never came to North America. An action-RPG spinoff called Valkyria Revolution came out in 2016 but didn't come close to filling that void. Needless to say, we're hoping to see more from Sega about the localized version of Valkyria Chronicles 4 at E3 2018. The game is currently out in Japan for PS4 but is set to release in worldwide on October 16 for Nintendo Switch and other platforms.
WarioWare Gold
The 3DS is probably near the end of its long, long lifecycle, but the console's not dead yet. And there are few finer series than WarioWare to see the system through its golden years. The next entry in the fast-paced franchise is a more of a Greatest Hits-type collection, rather than a wholly original creation. As it features 300 new and returning micro-games from previous entries in the franchise, Nintendo is touting this game as the largest in the series to date.
Yoshi for Nintendo Switch
Revealed during Nintendo's E3 2017 presentation, the new Yoshi game for Switch looks as adorable as you'd expect. While we know very little--not even the game's official title--the E3 reveal included a trailer showing off this game's twist on the series' slower-paced platformer gameplay. Levels look sort of like dioramas, and you switch from the front view to a behind-the-scenes look to reveal the stages' secrets. The game will also support two-player local co-op. Since Nintendo has said that this year's E3 presentation will focus on games coming out soon, it's likely we'll hear more about Yoshi then.
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 01:26 am
We're nearly five years into the PS4's life cycle, which means it's going to be all about the games at E3 2018. It's possible some of kind of big tech or hardware may be teased, but it's far more likely that Sony will wait on those types of announcements in favor of details for its latest games. Here are some of the biggest PS4 games we're assuming are going to be at this year's E3. We hope most of them are playable, but even if some only show up as a trailer, it's another chance to hear more about these games. You'll notice that many of these titles have been announced, but also included are titles we're guessing based on the list of companies on E3's official homepage. The first glimpse we'll have at many of these games will be during the pre-E3 press conferences. To make sure you're aware of the schedule as well as the location for our E3 livestreams, we have a hub rounding up all of that info for your convenience. The following games are only a few of all the exciting titles that will come out of E3. Aside from what you see here, be sure to check out our editor's picks for the games we're most anticipating. What games do you hope to learn more about at the show? Let us know in the comments below!
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is the latest in Namco Bandai's arcade jet-fighting franchise, and as the first numbered series entry in over a decade, it marks a return to the series' roots in military and political melodrama. The lead writer from beloved entries Ace Combat 4 and 5, Sunao Katabuchi, is back for Skies of Liberation, which is a very good sign. Ace Combat 7 was first revealed at PlayStation Experience in 2015, and we've seen a little bit about its story, had a brief hands-on with its campaign demo, and heard a lot about its VR mode. It's a beautiful-looking game, with a lot of new technological work going into its clouds. But after a delay last year, we just want to know when it's coming out. Hopefully, Bandai Namco will tell us during E3 2018.
Anthem
BioWare is one of the most beloved developers in the industry. It's best known for single-player RPGs, but with Anthem, it appears to be trying its hand at crafting a competitor to Destiny. That's an intriguing prospect in its own right, although at this point BioWare and EA have shared very little about what we can actually expect. Destiny appears to be the best comparison based on what we know, which is that you're playing in a shared world as a "freelancer" wearing an exosuit. One thing BioWare has offered reassurances about is that multiplayer is optional. It promises "you can choose to play through the story with only your friends, or even on your own." Games have often struggled with making the story in a multiplayer game feel like you are truly the central character, but BioWare is "taking this problem head-on and structuring the entire game design to provide a specific solution for this." Again, that's extremely vague, but BioWare is at least saying the right things. EA Play should provide us with a much better sense of how the studio is blending open-world action and third-person shooter gameplay, as well as whether it can avoid the pratfalls that have held Destiny back. Anthem is due out early in 2019.
The Avengers Project
We don't know much about the upcoming Avengers Project, but there are plenty of reasons to be excited about this mysterious collaboration between Marvel and publisher Square Enix. With a terrific-looking Spider-Man game coming up soon and back-to-back blockbuster entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, anything even tangentially related to the Avengers sounds like a sure bet. And Crystal Dynamics in particular has been earned plenty of good will. After the very good Tomb Raider, then the even better Rise of the Tomb Raider, it's exciting to imagine what might come about from the combination of Crystal Dynamics' development cachet and the Avengers' effortless mix of humor and blockbuster action. The website for the Avengers Project says it will have a "completely original story," but it'd be great if there was some kind of crossover with the movies, especially in this post-Infinity War world. Maybe the game could offer a glimpse into stories that'd be too far-reaching for a three-hour movie to tackle.
Battlefield V
We now have a ton of information around the next Battlefield game set in WWII. Although we haven't been able to play yet in order to confirm what was shown in the first reveal trailer, we have an extensive breakdown of what we know so far. Battlefield V introduces a large number of new mechanics that drive squads together and get them playing objectives. This includes the idea of ammo scarcity, the ability to build and fortify objectives, the ability to tow weapons with vehicles, and a new squad commander radio in order to call in powerful attacks. The campaign will focus on more personal stories from WWII, and some locations already shown are the mountains of Norway, French Countryside, and North Africa. The game will also have a co-op campaign with randomly generated elements called Combined Arms. Battlefield V will launch for everyone on October 19 and will not have a premium pass. New content is planned to roll out on a regular schedule through the Tides of War live service starting in November. Players will be able to participate in timed events and challenges to unlock a large variety of customization for their soldiers not seen in previous Battlefield games, including individual items of clothing. We should get our first hands-on at E3.
Beyond Good and Evil 2
Beyond Good and Evil 2 is the long-awaited successor to the 2003 original by acclaimed developer Michel Ancel. Revealed at Ubisoft's E3 2017 press conference, the game was long believed to never come out after having been stuck in development for since as early as 2007. The game takes place several generations prior to the events of the first game. You play as a space pirate of who starts the game at the bottom of the world's social ladder. Unlike the original, Beyond Good and Evil 2 plays more as a traditional RPG where you complete activities and increase your stats. As you progress, you assemble a crew, explore various planets, and create your own society of like-minded pirates. The game also features multiplayer elements, though not much has been revealed about how it'll work. Unlike recent games in its catalog, Ubisoft has been focused on involving people in Beyond Good and Evil 2's development via the Space Monkey Program, a community forum where people can contribute ideas and offer feedback to developers. While Beyond Good and Evil 2 only entered active development only just before its reveal at E3 2017, we're hoping that Ancel will offer another look at how the game is shaping up at this year's big show.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Renowned Castlevania developer Koji Igarashi is almost ready to launch his first project after striking out from Konami, and if you're familiar with his past, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night shouldn't come as too much of a surprise. This side-scrolling action game is set in an anime-tinged gothic world built on top of a sprawling map, with plenty of puzzles, boss battles, and upgrades to uncover. Originally pitched on Kickstarter back in 2015 (a campaign that was fully funded in a single day), Bloodstained is currently set to launch on Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC sometime in 2018. Igarashi and his co-developers from Inti Creates might as well take advantage of E3 to keep spreading the word, but a recent surprise announcement has already captured the attention of fans of old-school side-scrollers. A few weeks before E3, an original 8-bit Castlevania-esque game was given to backers and put up on most digital storefronts for about $10. Anyone interested in Bloodstained's ongoing development can follow the latest announcements over at the game's Kickstarter page. Be sure to keep an eye on the date next to the posts! Igarashi and co pulled a fast one when they announced that Bloodstained would passively mine digital currencies. Thankfully, this one was just an April fool's joke.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4
As part of the Black Ops 4's big announcement event in May, we learned that this year's entry in the juggernaut shooter series does not have a traditional campaign. In lieu of that, the game will offer an assortment of solo missions that revolve around each of the game's Specialist characters. Activision says these missions--which are set between Black Ops 2 and 3--will deliver the franchise's iconic set-piece moments, while also diving into some backstory. In another first for the series, Black Ops 4 will offer a Battle Royale-type mode called Blackout where players will fight to the death to become the last person or squad standing. We don't know all the details yet, but Activision is promising to do battle royale "the Black Ops way," and we're likely to hear more about that soon. Traditional head-to-head multiplayer is also back, along with an all-new Zombies experience. Developer Treyarch created the fan-favourite mode, and this year it looks bigger and better than ever with three distinct maps offering experiences that pull from wildly different things like the ill-fated Titanic and Roman battle arenas. Black Ops 4 launches on October 12 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC (through Battle.net).
Code Vein
Yes, the Dark Souls comparison for any game that vaguely resembles the series might be a little tired, but Code Vein is most certainly in the vein of the iconic, brutal third-person action-RPG games. From early gameplay footage it seems that Bandai Namco (which also publishes the Souls franchise) is using the same foundation beat for beat in Code Vein, and we see that as a good thing. Terrifying beasts that deal heavy damage occupy the open world, but at least you'll have a set of supernatural abilities in addition to hulking swords and spears. A key difference here is the anime-inspired art style for character designs and post-apocalyptic setting with a vampiric theme that offers its own distinct flavor. Code Vein is set to release sometime in 2018, and we expect Bandai Namco to feature the game at E3 this year. Bandai Namco has been trickling out new screenshots and teasing story elements throughout the year, so we have our fingers crossed for a release date announcement.
Cyberpunk 2077
It seems like CD Projekt Red has been working on this game forever. First announced in 2012, Cyberpunk 2077 is the developer's next major game after The Witcher 3--which means it has some big shoes to fill. It, too, is a massive open-world RPG, but this one is set in the future, just like Cyberpunk 2020, the tabletop game it's based on. The game takes place in Night City, California, a fictional metropolis between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The developer has been fairly tight-lipped about Cyberpunk 2077 since the initial announcement, but we do know it's aiming to be even bigger in scope than The Witcher 3 and will support some kind of multiplayer component. But CD Projekt Red has been clear that fans of Witcher-style solo campaigns don't need to worry--it will still feature a meaty single-player experience. CD Projekt Red is confirmed as an E3 2018 attendee, so we hope to learn more soon.
Days Gone
We first learned about Days Gone during Sony's press conference at E3 2016. The publisher showed an announce trailer and a gameplay demo that revealed a somber game about a biker trying to make his way in a post-apocalyptic Pacific Northwest. You play as Deacon St. John, a bounty hunter traveling through a broken world that's infested with zombie-like creatures called Freakers. What caused the apocalypse is a mystery, as is much of the game's plot. But we've seen plenty of the enemies, which sure do look like zombies, despite developer Bend Studios swearing up and down that they're not. These creatures lust for blood and have a tendency to group together in fast-moving hordes, just like the zombies in World War Z. Though it was originally set to release in 2018, Sony announced in March that Days Gone would be delayed until 2019. That's where we stand now, but we hope to see more of the game at E3 2018.
Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima is in a class of his own when it comes to making you want something you know next to nothing about. Ever since the debut of Death Stranding at E3 2016, the year following his very public post-Metal Gear Solid V departure from Konami, we've been trying to understand what exactly is going on with Norman Reedus and the enigmatic and near-lifeless world where the laws of time and space are in flux. So far we've seen only three incredibly cryptic trailers that showcase some amazing visuals, but they have left us even more confused. According to Kojima, his upcoming game--published by Sony and running on the same engine as Horizon: Zero Dawn--is an open-world action game with online elements. Other than that, we have next to no clue regarding how it will play. What we do know is that Norman Reedus plays a character named Sam who's exploring a world where the very rain--known as Timefall--will cause people to rapidly age upon exposure. Oh yeah, and there's a baby in a high-tech container, and Mads Mikkelsen--who can control a group of skeleton soldiers wielding weapons from World War II--may or may not be the villain. It's really bizarre stuff, yet all of it is strangely alluring. It was recently confirmed that Death Stranding will be one of the four major titles to be presented at Sony's E3 2018 press conference, and Kojima himself has even been sharing some teases of the game on social media. We'll likely see some actual gameplay of Death Stranding this time around, and we'll probably be just as confused as before. And that's OK. The three trailers have left a spellbinding effect on the audience, and we're looking forward to Kojima sharing some even more ridiculous and grotesque footage with everyone.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Will the eleventh core entry in the Dragon Quest saga finally be the one to break through to mainstream western success? The last major DQ game was back in 2010--Sentinels of the Starry Skies on the Nintendo DS--and Nintendo's 3DS handhelds have gotten reissues of the earlier entries in the series since. But outside of the offshoot Dragon Quest Heroes games, this'll be the first entry on home consoles since the PS2 era and the first time the series will be available on PC (in the West) ever. The alliterative title illustrates Dragon Quest's playful nature, and the colorful enemies and turn-based combat are mainstays of the series. But longtime fans know that Dragon Quest's charm comes from its endearing stories and puns that rival Monster Hunter's loquacious wordplay. And the possibility of yet another great game on Switch makes the wait for DQ11 all the more difficult.
The Division 2
2016's The Division got off to a hot start, but it quickly fell off the map due to lingering issues and other problems that pushed players to different games. To its credit, Ubisoft kept updating The Division to make it better, releasing more content to keep existing players pleased. Many would agree that the game eventually got to a better place. But for many others, that ship had sailed. With The Division 2, which is in the works at the same developer--Massive Entertainment--fans will be hoping for a better-realised, more fully fleshed out multiplayer shooter experience. The first game did many things well, from its intuitive co-op and matchmaking, to its tense and thrilling Dark Zone. It was set in a post-disaster Manhattan and offered a faithfully recreated version of the iconic city. We don't know yet if The Division 2 will also be set in Manhattan or what other advancements it may make, but it's definitely one of our most anticipated games.
Just Cause 4
Just Cause 4 has yet to be revealed, but its name did show up in a recent Walmart leak. The same was true of Rage 2, which has already proven to be real and lends some credence to the possibility that Just Cause 4 exists. With a movie happening (with Aquaman/Khal Drogo himself, Jason Momoa, set to star), it's not hard to imagine there being plans for a game to go along with it. Series developer Avalanche Studios has been fairly quiet since the release of its big 2015 open-world games, Just Cause 3 and Mad Max. Just where it could go with a potential Just Cause 4 is unclear, but we do know multiplayer mods for the last two entries have proven popular, and that multiplayer is something Avalanche has discussed. With GTA Online proving to be such a success for Rockstar, some kind of way to play Just Cause with friends would make for an exciting reveal.
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Since it was announced in 2015, the most notable headline regarding the Final Fantasy VII Remake was that Square Enix's partner studio on the project, Cyberconnect2 (.Hack, Asura's Wrath, Naruto Shippuden) would be relegated to the sidelines. This shift was the result of a decision to make the remake a multi-game project in order to avoid making cuts to the original story. The current aim is to make each game roughly the same size as Final Fantasy XIII. The best look we've had at the game thus far was the PSX 2015 trailer, which landed a mere few months after the game's announcement. In that two-minute-plus trailer, we got a look at the opening scene where Cloud, Barret, Biggs, and Wedge infiltrate an energy plant, as well as a glimpse at the real-time combat system. By all appearances, Final Fantasy VII Remake will play a bit like Final Fantasy XV, but it's difficult to say without hands-on experience, and there's no telling what's changed since Cyberconnect2 handed over key development to Square-Enix. Hopefully, if we end up seeing Final Fantasy VII Remake at E3, we will have more definitive answers.
Ghost of Tsushima
Since Infamous: First Light released in 2014, the public has been kept in the dark as to what developer Sucker Punch Productions has been working on. Sony had confirmed in 2015 that the studio was working on a new game and that it was playable. We finally learned what it has in development at Paris Games Week 2017 when Sucker Punch Productions unveiled Ghost of Tsushima, an open-world samurai-themed action game. Ghost of Tsushima is set on the island of Tsushima during the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1294. You play as a lone samurai turned vengeful assassin--likely fighting to drive out the Mongol army from Japan. The game appears to take you to numerous locales across Tsushima, which includes rural villages, bamboo forests, and wide-open fields. A brief instance at the end of the teaser showcased the ability to throw bombs and surprising enemies with a jumping attack from above. Sony hasn't said much about Ghost of Tsushima since its initial reveal trailer half a year ago. However, the company has confirmed that it'll talk more about Ghost of Tsushima at its E3 2018 press conference.
Kingdom Hearts III
It's important to remember that the original Kingdom Hearts came out in 2002. Back then, the absurd premise was initially laughed off as a too-weird-to-work idea, but upon playing it, players were introduced to an incredibly heartfelt and charming story that coupled the cheerfulness of classic Disney with some engaging action-RPG gameplay. While exploring several classic Disney worlds with Sora, Donald Duck, and Goofy, they'd battle some well-known Disney villains and discover the almighty power of friendship. As cheesy as that sounds, it all worked, and Kingdom Hearts is a game that stuck with many fans over the years. Its direct-sequel was released in 2006, and while we've had a number of games that covered several side-stories and events with Sora and his friends, Kingdom Hearts III was officially announced at E3 2013. It's been many years since we've seen Sora and crew in a mainline entry of the series, and their time away has shown us some remarkable growth. We recently had the chance to play some of Kingdom Hearts III, and we were surprised at how much the game has not only kept its charm, but its story and characters have gotten a bit better with age. With many of Kingdom Hearts' most diehard fans growing into adulthood, Sora has grown up as well, showing a newfound level of maturity. It'll interesting to see how E3 2018 will turn out for Kingdom Hearts III. We'll likely see more gameplay and the reveal of some upcoming worlds at the show, but there is one thing coming up that will excite fans even more. During a recent event, Kingdom Hearts' director, Tetsuya Nomura, stated that the official release date will be revealed at the upcoming show. It's been a long time coming for the next major game in the series, and it now looks like the end is in sight.
The Last of Us Part II
Naughty Dog's follow-up to 2013's The Last of Us may be one of the most highly anticipated games of E3 2018. The Last of Us Part II sees the return of Ellie and Joel, with Ellie as the main playable character. A brutal trailer unveiled at last year's Paris Games Week didn't show Joel or Ellie at all, though; it instead featured an unknown young woman who is tortured by a mysterious group of people, and it concluded with Infected rushing the scene. We haven't seen much of the game itself, but we do know some background details. The first game's director, Bruce Straley, isn't returning to direct the sequel. Naughty Dog's Neil Druckmann has also stated that if the first game's theme is love, the theme of Part II is hate--and that neither Joel nor Ellie is safe from harm.
Left Alive
Square Enix caught many people off-guard with the surprise announcement of Left Alive at Tokyo Game Show 2017, and while details remain scarce, an eye-catching trailer and list of notable developers was all it took to grab our attention. Both the teaser trailer and gameplay trailer released at the show set the stage for a sci-fi epic with war as a central theme. With Metal Gear artist Yoji Shinkawa on board, it's no surprise that Left Alive bears some resemblance to Hideo Kojima's iconic stealth series. But don't confuse it for a spiritual successor, as the brief glimpse of gameplay we've seen so far is solely focused on gunplay, and there's another series known for examining the realities of war that's confirmed to be the basis for Left Alive's setting. According to producer Shinji Hashimoto, a longtime Square Enix employee with a long list of beloved games under his belt, Left Alive is connected to Square Enix's Front Mission series. The typical grid-based mechanics are out, obviously, but the series' iconic Wanzer mechs are back. Chances are you will eventually get to pilot one (we hope) but in an interesting twist, we know for sure that at some point in the game you will have to face towering mechs as a soldier on the ground. The odds aren't in your favor, but this is part of the appeal thus far: What will it take to come out on top? Hopefully, Square Enix intends to tell us at E3 2018.
Madden NFL 19
Madden Season may still be a few months off, but it's never too early to get excited about the next instalment in EA Sports' football series. Last year's Madden 18 was generally great, praised for its advancements to gameplay and visuals along with its brand-new single-player mode, Longshot, featuring Oscar winner Mahershala Ali. The game's Franchise mode lacked significant updates and improvements, so hopefully EA can give more attention to it with this year's game. Another interesting wrinkle is that Madden's creative director for the past half-decade, Rex Dickson, has left the company, teasing in his departure notice that some changes would be coming to the Madden formula this year.
Mega Man 11
For several years, it seemed Capcom wouldn't be releasing any more new Mega Man games. Since the character creator Keiji Inafune's departure from Capcom, little had been announced for the fan-favorite blue bomber. However, Capcom has since focused more on supporting Mega Man, having since released several collections of the character's most iconic games on modern platforms. This ultimately paved way for the upcoming Mega Man 11, which was announced late last year to commemorate the character's 30th anniversary. Unlike past games, Mega Man 11 features 3D polygonal characters and environments. Aside from the new visual style, the game seems to play like classic games in the series. Since its reveal trailer, we've heard little about Mega Man 11. However, if there's any time that Capcom should talk about the game, it's E3. After all, the game is scheduled to release later this year, so we're hoping to that Capcom goes into more detail about the blue bomber's latest adventure.
Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus continues the legacy of the post-apocalyptic first-person shooter series from Ukrainian developer 4A Games. What makes Metro special is its foreboding atmosphere; the underground metro tunnels are home to the human race as the surface is far too hostile and radiated, and the setting truly evokes a sense of vulnerability and desperation. Exodus appears to be continuing this tradition by picking up two years after the events of Last Light's "good" ending. However, it seems as though series protagonist Artyom is spending much more time on the surface as he flees the Metro system alongside fellow rangers to head eastward and start a new life. But it wouldn't be Metro without irradiated beasts roaming the surface, in and around the city streets that once harbored human life. The challenge has always been surviving radiation by scavenging for gas masks and conserving your limited ammo, all while managing the threat of the deformed creatures. Although it was recently announced that Metro Exodus' launch was delayed to early 2019, publisher Deep Silver is going to be present at E3 2018, so we expect to see a bit more of the game at the show. Exodus was first revealed during Microsoft's Xbox press conference at E3 2017 and will also be launching for PS4.
NHL 19
Though it doesn't get as much attention as EA's other big-name sports franchises like FIFA and Madden, the company's NHL series is still a hit each year. NHL 18 was a fantastic, genuine recreation of the sport, and with its 3v3 mode, it offered a simpler way for new players to pick up the game and learn the basics. Every year EA continues to surprise and impress with the incredible level of detail it pours into recreating hockey in a video game, and we expect this year's entry to be no different. It's likely that NHL 19 will be officially announced during EA's briefing, and it should be out in September for home consoles.
Rage 2
Maybe it's a coincidence, or maybe it's impressive damage control on Bethesda's part, but the recent reveal of Rage 2 and the release of two trailers came hot on the heels of the unusual leak from Walmart just weeks prior to E3. So what has Bethesda shown thus far? A lot, surprisingly. The first trailer didn't feature any gameplay, but set the stage for Rage 2's new tone with a fun track by rocker Andrew W.K. and a lot of neon-tinted actors in punk-ish, post-apocalyptic armor rocking out. The gameplay trailer was obviously more revealing and gave us a glimpse into a dreary yet-oddly enticing wasteland. Compared to the original Rage, the sequel doesn't seem to take itself too seriously, and will take advantage of that fact by giving you access to outlandish vehicles and weapons with which to battle twisted mutants and other deranged survivors. All of this is set to take place in an open world. The gameplay seen thus far seems reminiscent of Destiny or Borderlands' first-person action, but with Avalanche Studios behind the wheel it's safe to say that Rage 2 will have a feel all its own. For a more reasonable example of what the team may do with the world, we can look to two of its previous projects: Just Cause 3 and Mad Max. It's also been confirmed that id Software (Doom, Rage, Quake Champions) will co-develop Rage 2, hopefully to keep an eye on the shooting mechanics. We should find out a lot more during Bethesda's E3 press conference on June 10.
Skull & Bones
Inspired by the best part of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag--the sailing--Skull & Bones is a standalone adventure on the high seas. While there will be a multiplayer treasure-hunting component, and you'll also be able to challenge other pirates in their customized galleys, S&B will include a single-player campaign if you'd prefer to go it alone. Ubisoft has revealed very few gameplay details so far, and there's little chance that the game will even be released this year. But for anyone who might've gotten a taste for piracy in Sea of Thieves (or who really miss AC4), there are going to be a lot more looting adventures to learn about during E3.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar typically doesn't have a big presence at E3; the company's games are big enough to draw hype on all their own without the need to share the spotlight with other companies. But there's always the chance that there'll be a new trailer or feature announcement during someone's stage show for Red Dead Redemption 2. As many teases as we've seen around the game's Western story, there are even more unexplored mysteries. What's the gunplay like? What new features will the game introduce? And most importantly, how will multiplayer work? Don't expect to get a full demo or even to see much gameplay, but another Red Dead tease is always possible.
Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake was confirmed in 2015, a year after a fan-made version was first shown off (Capcom even asked for feedback on the fan-made remake). The team behind the Resident Evil HD Remaster was confirmed to be tackling 2, but the last we heard from them was in April 2016, when producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi discussed the impact of Resident Evil 6 feedback on the remake project. Two years later and the project remains veiled in secrecy. Heck, we still don't know if the Resident Evil 2 Remake will retain the original's camera angles or adopt the first-person perspective from Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. However, it's likely that we'll hear more about the game at this year's E3. After all, 2018 marks Resident Evil 2's 20th anniversary, which should be ample reason for the remake to finally release. We're crossing our fingers for a release date at least.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
Shadow of the Tomb Raider is the third entry in the Tomb Raider reboot series. Square Enix officially revealed the game was in development March 2018, though it was technically leaked last year when a Square Enix employee was spotted in a subway train working on a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation with the game's name. While the game will be developed primarily by Eidos Montreal, it's worth noting that original reboot developer Crystal Dynamics will provide additional development on the project. You once again play as Lara Croft, who is on an expedition to Latin America in search of a Mayan relic. However, Trinity, a paramilitary organization who tried to hunt down Lara in the previous game, is also seeking the relic for its own gain. During the expedition, Lara sets off a Mayan apocalypse, which throws her down a journey to save the world. Shadow of the Tomb Raider sports a few key additions to the series formula, which includes revamped swimming controls for underwater exploration as well as more sophisticated stealth and AI systems. The game is scheduled to release on September 14, but we're hoping Square Enix intends to offer more details about the game at this year's E3.
Shenmue III
During the same Sony press conference Final Fantasy VII Remake was announced, it was revealed that Shenmue III was in the works. Revered Sega developer Yu Suzuki would finally get the chance to close out the trilogy he planned decades ago. Sega had given Suzuki the greenlight; he just had to get the game funded independently. The first Shenmue was originally conceived for the Sega Saturn, but the series would ultimately debut on Sega's next console, the Dreamcast, followed by a sequel which was also ported to the original Xbox. In other words, it's been a long time since Shenmue II left fans hanging; 17 years, so far. In the three years since the initiative was announced, Shenmue was funded in part by a controversial Kickstarter campaign and was picked up by publisher Deep Silver. Both Sony and Sega continue to support development, according to Suzuki. We don't know when Shenmue 3 will ultimately be released, though it was recently announced that enhanced HD ports of the first two games will be released for PlayStation 4 in 2018. While Suzuki and his various teams have released semi-regular updates on the game, the media released thus far has left some concerns in the minds of fans. But given that all footage is from early in development, it's not surprising that it's a little rough around the edges. If Sony has anything new to share, we should get a glimpse during its E3 2018 press conference on June 11.
Splinter Cell
Fans have been waiting for the better part of five years for a new Splinter Cell game. Ubisoft has not yet announced one, but CEO Yves Guillemot has made comments in the past year that certainly tease the possibility of a new entry. E3 might finally be when we see the game emerge. If Ubisoft hoped to catch everyone off-guard with a Splinter Cell announcement, it hasn't done the greatest job. The first big update of Ghost Recon Wildlands' second year featured a Splinter Cell theme, complete with an appearance by Sam Fisher. In a key move, Ubisoft brought back Fisher voice actor Michael Ironside, who did not appear in the most recent game, Blacklist. It's possible Ubisoft had plans for more than just a small cameo for Ironside, and his brief appearance is capped off with what could be the setup for a new game's plot. Combined with the Walmart Canada leak, which correctly listed Rage 2 and also listed a game called "Splinter Cell," maybe it's really happening.
Star Wars | Respawn
Titanfall developer Respawn Entertainment is working on a new third-person Star Wars game that's being directed by a of War III director Stig Asmussen. According to publisher EA (which owns Respawn as of last year), the game is an "all-new third-person action-adventure game set in the Star Wars universe." That's all we know about the game for certain, but it's intriguing to think about what the team behind one of the most trailblazing shooters in recent years may do with such a big and beloved sci-fi license. Fans may be happy to know that Respawn boss Vince Zampella met with The Force Awakens director JJ Abrams to talk about their respective works; oh to be a fly on that wall. EA would do well to give an update on all of its upcoming Star Wars projects at E3 this year, so hopefully we will know more about Respawn's game soon.
Star Wars Project | EA Vancouver
We actually know quite a bit about the Star Wars project that's in development with EA Vancouver--at least, the history of what it was, thanks to a detailed Kotaku report. But it's very likely that the single-player adventure game, codenamed "Ragtag" and formerly led by Uncharted director Amy Hennig, has gone the way of Star Wars 1313 and all but completely evaporated. In late 2017, the primary studio behind the Ragtag project, Visceral Games, was sadly closed. It had been working on this untitled Star Wars adventure since 2013, but the original game it set out to make has been effectively cancelled. EA Vancouver has since taken over completely and will pivot the game to become a "broader experience" and one that will "deliver an experience players will want to come back to for a long time to come," according to executive vice president of EA Worldwide Studios Patrick Söderlund.
SoulCalibur VI
The announcement at The Game Awards of SoulCalibur's return was a big, awesome surprise. The weapons-based fighter was once a leading series, and the original was the game to have for every Sega Dreamcast owner. But the series was relegated to secondary status for years while Bandai Namco's other franchises dominated the spotlight. With SoulCalibur VI, it's getting a new lease on life that many would argue is justly deserved. It's also got a few new tricks up its sleeve. Following in the footsteps of other contemporary fighting games, the introduction of the Reversal Edge mechanic in SoulCalibur VI is designed to give players a more accessible and punishing means of fending off their opponent to turn the tide of battle. It's the biggest addition to the SoulCalibur formula that we know of so far, but there's one big surprise to look forward to: Geralt of Rivia is joining the cast. There's no word on a specific release date yet, but SoulCalibur VI is on the books for 2018, and that hopefully means we will get a bunch of new info during E3.
Spider-Man
Though Spider-Man has had a spotty history when it comes to video game adaptations, Sony's upcoming exclusive looks to be one of the rare standouts. Developed by Insomniac Games--the creators of Spyro the Dragon, Ratchet and Clank, and Sunset Overdrive--the studio has paired its talents for open-world action and solid-platforming mechanics with the agility and finesse of Spider-Man's moves. Fun and verticality are some of the key things to have in a good Spider-Man game, and those are on full display in the upcoming one. It truly looks like it will be a blast to play. According to the developer, we've only seen a fraction of what you can expect to do in the game. It picks up with Spider-Man at the top of his crime-fighting game, and the wallcrawler will still have his work cut out for him when new villains start popping up in New York City. But when he isn't battling multiple armed robbers and stopping super-powered bad guys, he'll stop to take selfies with civilians and help the locals out with their errands. Though helping kids find their balloons doesn't seem to be a thing in the game, Marvel's Spider-Man looks to fulfill the fantasy of being web-slinger quite accurately.
Valkyria Chronicles 4
If you ever wanted an anime-esque tactical RPG in the modern era, you'll want to dive into the Valkyria Chronicles series. It's known for a unique blend of real-time controls within a turn-based strategy framework, but also for how it draws inspiration from World War II and European military history for its fiction. Valkyria Chronicles 4 continues the series' story of the Second Europan War fought on the continent of Europa between Atlantic Federation and the Eastern Imperial Alliance, but it instead focuses on the smaller stories taking place throughout the conflict. This will be the first mainline Valkyria Chronicles entry for major platforms since the first game, which released in 2008. Valkyria Chronicles 2 and 3 were exclusive to the PlayStation Portable, and the third game never came to North America. An action-RPG spinoff called Valkyria Revolution came out in 2016 but didn't come close to filling that void. Needless to say, we're hoping to see more from Sega about the localized version of Valkyria Chronicles 4 at E3 2018. The game is already out in Japan for PS4 but is set to release in worldwide on October 16 for PS4, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One.
Yakuza Kiwami 2
2018 is the year of Yakuza, and Kiwami 2 is going to be one of the key components for spreading the good word of Kazuma Kiryu. As a remake of the second entry, Yakuza Kiwami 2 will tell the story of how Kiryu's friends in the Tojo Clan are on the brink of destruction due to a coup that took place within their Omi Alliance rivals. The sinister Ryuji Goda seizes control of the Omi, but that's only scratching the surface of the gripping drama of Yakuza 2. A foreign mafia meddles in Japanese affairs, and uncovering the mystery as to why and how alongside the Osakan detective Kaoru Sayama becomes the game's narrative focus. Yakuza games wouldn't be the same without everyone's idol Goro Majima, and Kiwami 2 brings a brand-new campaign called The Truth of Goro Majima that delves deeper into the backstory of the beloved, eccentric character. You'll learn of the events that occurred between the first two games and how Majima's ridiculous journey led him to become a construction business tycoon in Yakuza 2. Kiwami 2 released in Japan for PS4 back in December 2017, but it was recently announced for the West and is set for an August 28 launch. We hope to get our hands on this reimagination of one of Kiryu's most wild rides, especially since it's made with the Dragon engine which powered Yakuza 6: The Song of Life and brought Kamurocho to life like never before.
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 01:23 am
There's plenty of exciting new games that we're eager to see more of at E3 2018. With so many major companies bringing their best games to the show, there's likely to be a fair amount of surprises in store. Despite the recent leaks, we're hoping that this year's show yields an assortment of notable announcements worth getting hyped up towards. Here, in alphabetical order, are some of the biggest games we're most looking forward to seeing. Many of these titles have been confirmed, but others are titles we're guessing at based on the list of companies on the official E3 homepage. The first potential look we'll get at most of these games will be during the press conferences before E3 even begins. We're hoping many of the games listed here are playable, but even if some only show up as a brief teaser, it's still another chance to get a feel for what's ahead. To make sure you're up to date with the times as well as the location for our E3 livestreams, we have a hub rounding up all of that info as well. Like previous shows, this year's E3 will likely yield plenty of exciting announcements. While this feature contains only a selection of the games we're most excited about, you can check out our other more comprehensive features covering all of the biggest PS4, Xbox One, and Switch games at E3 2018. But what games are you most excited to see at the show? Let us know in the comments below!
Animal Crossing for Nintendo Switch
I am the embodiment of "Animal Crossing on Switch, or we riot." There are so few series that I know I can count on to be fantastic with each iteration, and Animal Crossing always nails it for me. I don't know if it's because all my neighbors are always happy to see me or what, but I adore this wee chore simulator. Following New Leaf will be difficult as it really ironed out the kinks of City Folk and Wild World, in addition to having its own handful of lovable quirks. Pocket Camp has its own unique charms as well, though it doesn't do the series quite enough justice. What I would really love to see is a new game that focuses on the elements we've seen in Pocket Camp, like crafting, friendship levels, daily challenges, and more. I'd especially love to see even more fun events and things to collect too. And, if it's on Switch, it would be really amazing to see local co-op with the characters that live in your town, or an integrated online marketplace. | Aiden Strawhun, News Writer
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
For never was a story of more woe, than of the Wii U and Captain Toad. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker released on Wii U right at the end of 2014 in the US, thus taking it out of contention for GameSpot's Game of the Year awards voting that year and pushing it into 2015. I'm not saying it would've won, but at least it would've fared better in 2014 than having to battle 2015 heavy hitters like The Witcher 3 and Metal Gear Solid V. But alas, the much maligned Wii U was, even at that point, already fading into obscurity. But on Switch, Captain Toad has another chance to rise to the top and claim the glittering star of fame that he seeks out so tirelessly. As a re-release, Captain Toad won't make its way into our Game of the Year discussion (though it might be able to slug it out in the re-release/remaster category), but just giving more people a chance to experience this passed over gaming gem is great news. And since it's coming out this July on 3DS and Switch, it will undoubtedly be playable at Nintendo's E3 booth. And like every other Switch re-release so far, the Switch re-master will add new content like fresh Super Mario Odyssey-inspired locales, and local co-op play. So even intrepid adventures like me who already dove deep into the adventure on Wii U will have a reason to return. But what will Nintendo show off at E3? At least I don't have to wait much longer to find out. | Justin Haywald, Managing Editor
Crackdown 3
I've been eagerly awaiting Crackdown 3 for years now. I was a huge fan of the original's blend of open-world action and superhero powers, and even a decade later, it remains satisfying to scale a giant building and collect an agility orb. Like many others, I was disappointed by its seq uel, but since the announcement of Crackdown 3, I've been excited to see how the introduction of environmental destruction would shake up the formula. Despite being such a great idea, we haven't seen many developers tackle the superhero open-world genre; Saints Row 4 is one of the few exceptions, but that came with its own distinct style of zaniness. Crackdown 3 has the opportunity to go a different route while also leveraging the impressive cloud-based tech we've seen demonstrated in the past--assuming that remains part of the game. The delays and long wait has, admittedly, worried me, but I remain hopeful that's all in service of getting things right, not because things have gone terribly awry. | Chris Pereira, News Editor
Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima's enigmatic and bizarrely detailed Death Stranding will no doubt be one of E3 2018's most exciting games. Even though we've had a few trailers to see what's to come with the open-world action-thriller, the general narrative comes off as a bit incomprehensible, yet still alluring. And seeing Norman Reedus and Mads Mikkelsen as the game's two lead characters offers a lot of excitement for what could happen when these two will eventually face off. This year, Death Stranding will be one of the key games of Sony's press conference, putting it into the spotlight alongside the likes of The Last Of Us: Part II, Ghost of Tsushima, and Marvel's Spider-Man. As the first game from Kojima's new studio in the wake of his departure from Konami, there's a lot of anticipation for his big return. Personally speaking, I hope the game will only get weirder from here. While there is likely a method to Death Stranding's madness--all set within a world where the laws of time and space are in flux--it'd be better for them to keep specifics under wraps, and just let us stew in the strangeness of it all. | Alessandro Fillari, Editor
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
When Final Fantasy 7 launched in 1997, it was a huge moment for us longtime RPG fans. I'd been playing the series since its first installment on NES, and even after two ambitious, fantastic SNES sequels made their way stateside, the genre still wasn't getting the mainstream respect it deserved. That all changed when Final Fantasy 7 landed on PlayStation. The game was a massive hit, and it's easy to see why. It was huge--remember leaving Midgar for the first time and realizing it was just one city in a much larger world? It also had memorable characters, great writing, lots of secrets, and fun side missions. Sephiroth was the coolest, most vile villain we all loved to hate. And those graphics--no one had imagined CG cutscenes could look so good. Of course, in the age of 4K TVs, Final Fantasy 7 doesn't seem quite so gorgeous or massive anymore--but that's where this remake can come in. If the project can get on track after some apparent behind-the-scenes turmoil, a modernized version of Final Fantasy 7 could make this beloved classic feel like it did when it first came out. Let's just hope it materializes sooner rather than later. | Chris Reed, Commerce Editor
Fire Emblem for Nintendo Switch
It feels like a veritable lifetime since Nintendo revealed that a mainline Fire Emblem game is in development for Switch, and we still aren't any clearer about what we can expect from the game. Despite being announced during a Direct presentation back in January 2017, Nintendo hasn't provided any details about the title--only that it will apparently arrive sometime in 2018. Whether or not that remains the case is certainly up in the air considering we haven't even seen a second of footage from the game, but if it is indeed coming soon, then we'll undoubtedly hear more about it at E3 2018. While Fire Emblem Switch is still very much shrouded in mystery, it remains one of my most anticipated titles for the console. The recent slate of 3DS Fire Emblem games have been some of my favorite installments in the series, and I'm excited to see what direction developer Intelligent Systems will take for the next chapter. Switch's hybrid nature also means that the upcoming title will be the first console installment since Wii's Radiant Dawn, and I'm excited to see how Intelligent Systems will take advantage of the Switch's greater horsepower. More than anything, though, I'm excited by the prospect of being able to play Fire Emblem Switch anywhere I want. As the recent 3DS entries have demonstrated, Fire Emblem is perfectly suited for on-the-go play, but I'd also love to settle in for extended sessions on my TV. We may know next to nothing about the game, but given Intelligent Systems' recent track record, Fire Emblem Switch is certainly one of the most promising titles on the way for the hybrid console. | Kevin Knezevic, News Editor
Ghost of Tsushima
I've honestly never been a big fan of Sucker Punch Productions' previous games. Despite trying multiple games in both the Sly Cooper and Infamous franchises, none have managed to capture my imagination in any meaningful way. However, the studio's latest effort has me excited. Titled Ghost of Tsushima, the game is a samurai-themed open-world set on the island of Tsushima during the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1294. You play as a lone samurai turned vengeful assassin--likely fighting to drive out the Mongol army from Japan. As a history buff and lover of classic Japanese Chanbara films, Ghost of Tsushima sounds right up my alley. An open-world set in a faithfully recreated version of medieval Japan has always been a dream game of mine, so to say I'm enthused would be an understatement. Heck, I'm already wondering what mechanics will be included. For example, if there's a system involving manipulating clan loyalty--similar to what the protagonist of Akira Kurosawa's Yojimbo does--that would be amazing. Sony has said little about Ghost of Tsushima since its initial reveal at Paris Games Week. However, the company has confirmed that it'll talk more about the game at its E3 2018 press conference. I'm holding out hope for a first look at gameplay and even a possible release window. | Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
Kingdom Hearts III
I've been a fan of Kingdom Hearts for as long as the series has existed, and I've grown up playing it across too many home consoles, handhelds, and cell phones to count. Kingdom Hearts III is tasked with not just completing the trilogy, but with pleasing a fanbase that has stuck with the franchise for 16 years. Between several all-new worlds, a suite of epic attacks based on Disney theme park rides, and new battle options, Kingdom Hearts III is looking to turn every element of the game up to 11. That's why I'm excited to see it at E3 this year, presumably as the highlight of Square Enix's press conference. I want to know what other new ideas creator/director Tetsuya Nomura and his team are bringing to the latest entry, but most importantly, I want to know when I can actually sit down and play it from the comfort of my couch. Kingdom Hearts III has a herculean task of tying up more than a decade of stories and spin-offs, but the first step in satisfying fans is to simply tell us when we can play it for ourselves. | Tony Wilson, Video Producer
The Last Of Us: Part II
The Last of Us is one of my favourite games ever and the best game of the last generation of consoles. I loved its characters, combat, and story, all of which come together to make a beautifully complete and neatly wrapped package. For this reason, I didn't want a sequel. Of course, Sony was always going to make a follow-up to one of its best-received and most successful games, and even though I'd rather it didn't exist, I'm still going to play it, and I'm still excited to hear more about where Joel and Ellie's path leads them. I also really want to know whether Part II will contain a multiplayer mode, which was the most underrated portion of the original game. Its slow, tense action and teamwork was a fresh take on the third person multiplayer shooter. Maybe Naughty Dog will even join the battle royale revolution? | Oscar Dayus, Staff Writer
Metro Exodus
Metro 2033 and Last Light nailed down something I don't experience often in first-person shooters; the feeling of vulnerability. This works thematically as humans are stuck in the metro tunnels of Eastern Europe, trying to survive the post-apocalyptic world. But human factions vying for resources and territory and mutated monsters threaten your very existence. The "Dark Ones" in particular are central to the plot--descendants of humans called Homo Novus who evolved out of nuclear radiation--and you're given some key decisions that decides the fate between both species. That's all to say that I'm eager to see how the series evolves with Metro Exodus. The upcoming Metro Exodus continues the story of Artyom where he and a group of rangers flee the tunnels to head east and start a new life. From what's been revealed, it seems that a large chunk of this game will take place on the surface which is hostile to human life. You'll also be making your trek in the midst of a nuclear winter. Searching for new gas mask filters added tension to exploring on top of the fact that death can await you around every corner. Military-grade bullets dealt more damage but also acted as currency, driving home the fact that resources are scarce in the Metro world. While we don't know much about the actual game mechanics, I expect these elements to return because they are such a huge factor in creating that foreboding atmosphere that Metro captures perfectly. | Michael Higham, Associate Editor
Metroid Prime 4
Nintendo's announcement of Metroid Prime 4 at E3 2017 was awesome and all, but my god the wait for new info has been agonizing. I feel like it's safe to assume that it will be a first-person shooter, Samus will appear, and you know, there will be a lot of equipment upgrades to find, but surely Nintendo will strive for more than a by-the-numbers sequel, and it's those kind of details I want to know about most of all. That is if the game appears at E3 at all. One of the big rumors floating around is that Prime 4 will prominently feature Sylux, a little-known character who made brief appearances at the end of both Prime 3 and the 3DS co-op shooter Federation Force. Maybe he'll be a villain, but what if he replaced Samus as the lead character? My imagination is running wild because Nintendo hasn't said word one about anything related to the story, or the world, or where Prime 4 fits in the timeline, and I might as well grasp at crazy straws while I can, right? | Peter Brown, Senior Reviews Editor
Pokemon for Nintendo Switch
A new, core Pokemon RPG is coming to Switch, and we still know nothing about it. My imagination has been running wild since its reveal last E3. Will it be a full 3D world? Where will it be set? Most importantly, what will a Pokemon game look and feel like on a home console that's also portable? It has the potential to be the Pokemon game I've been dreaming about since I was a kid--more open, more engrossing, more of a fantasy than ever. I can't wait to see what that journey will be like. | Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
Red Dead Redemption 2
After multiple delays, Rockstar's Red Dead Redemption 2 is finally coming out this October for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The 2010 original is one of my favourite games of all time, and I could not be more excited to see what Rockstar has in store for the sequel as it relates to advancements to storytelling, gameplay, systems, and overall presentation. We've learned that the game is a prequel where you play as a man named Arthur Morgan. He's in the Van der Linde gang, but he questions his place in the group, and that will surely have consequences. The first Red Dead offered a level of freedom that I hadn't experienced in a game before, and it is exciting to think about what Rockstar will do with the power of new consoles. I am expecting and hoping to see more detailed environments, bigger set pieces (please let there be another train robbery mission), and all kinds of interesting characters to meet. I am also very intrigued to see and learn more about the game's online component, which will no doubt take learnings from the uber-popular GTA Online and add its own Western-style flair. More than 1,000 people from across the company's network of studios reportedly worked on Red Dead Redemption 2, and it won't be much longer until we finally see what that collective effort can deliver. | Eddie Makuch, Editor
Remedy Games Project "P7"
We know that Remedy--the Finnish studio behind memorable cinematic third-person games Max Payne, Alan Wake, and Quantum Break—are working on something new, and it's going to be revealed at E3. The project is codenamed "P7", and a few small details are already certain: It's going to be another third-person game set in an entirely new universe, it's going to be multi-platform, and it's going to be released in 2019. We also know that Remedy are aiming to maintain their focus on storytelling while experimenting with ways to increase replayability, according to a Eurogamer interview with Sam Lake. I'm a big fan of Remedy's past titles, I've always found their cinematic approach to games really enjoyable, especially Alan Wake. Each game's unique action twist has always been really enjoyable, too--they were one of the first studios to make bullet time work well! When Quantum Break was announced, I remember being stunned at how ambitious it was, and I'm hoping that they leave me with a similarly significant impression when they reveal P7. | Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer
Spider-Man
Spider-Man has been done, and done well, plenty of times before in video games--so why does this time feel so different? It's probably because, by all appearances, Insomniac has managed to inject some new life into a tired franchise. And certainly the production values have gone up now that it's a major tentpole exclusive for Sony. But more than any other factor, I get the sense that Insomniac loves and understands what makes Spider-Man special. His improvisational style appears to manifest in a wide array of combat options that can be mixed and matched at will. His brilliance leads to light gadgetry that's believable coming from the kid genius who invented web shooters. He can stalk enemies to thin out their ranks, but without the overbearing darkness of an Arkham wannabe. This version of Spider-Man is a colorful, flexible everyman hero, and those are just the shoes I'd like to step into for a larger-than-life fantasy. Plus, that Miles Morales tease doesn't hurt. | Steve Watts, News Writer
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo Switch
Super Smash Bros has officially been announced for Nintendo Switch and I for one cannot wait to find out more about it. Since the series first debuted back on the N64, I have been hooked on playing it with friends as often as I possibly can. Some of my closest friends were ones I made in college while staying up late in the dorms playing Melee until the sun rose. With Smash on Switch, I'm hoping to see a more unique roster. While I definitely want some of the past characters to come back, I hope to see plenty of new ones this time around. While the silhouettes shown seem to clearly indicate we are getting Mario and Link, I'm hoping returning characters at least have a more unique moveset in this iteration. During E3, I have a feeling we'll see at least eight characters from the game's roster. We'll likely see the latest iterations of established characters, like Mario and Link, as well as some predictable returning characters, like Samus, Fox, and Kirby. In addition, we'll likely see a big third party character announced. With so many possible characters to be added and new mechanics to be introduced, E3 can't arrive sooner. Fingers crossed for Geno to be added! | Gajan Kulasingham, Senior Social Media Producer
By GameSpot Staff on Jun 07, 2018 01:19 am
We're several years into the the life cycle of the PS4 and Xbox One, and Nintendo just released the Switch last year, which means one thing for E3 2018: it's going to be all about the games. Sure, there's always the possibility of some of kind of big tech or hardware tease, but it's more likely that the major console companies will save any of those types of announcements for another time. Instead, the focus is going to be on gameplay and trailers for many of the games we already know are fast-approaching this holiday, as well as a slate of new and unannounced games. Here, in alphabetical order, are some of the biggest games we're pretty sure are going to be at E3 in some form or another. Hopefully most of them are playable, but even if some only show up as a trailer, it's another chance to get a feel for what lies ahead. Many of these titles have been announced, but others are ones we're guessing at based on the list of companies on the official E3 homepage (as well as our infallible intuition). The first potential look we'll get at most of these games will be during the press conferences before E3 even begins. To make sure you're up to date with the times as well as the location for our E3 video streams, we have a hub rounding up all of that info as well. The following games are only a potential sampling of all the exciting titles that will come out of E3, and be sure to check out our editor's picks for the games we're most anticipating. But in the meantime, what games do you hope to learn more about at the show? Let us know in the comments below!
Ashen (Xbox One, PC)
BioWare is one of the most beloved developers in the industry. It's best known for single-player RPGs, but with Anthem, it appears to be trying its hand at crafting a competitor to Destiny. That's an intriguing prospect in its own right, although at this point BioWare and EA have shared very little about what we can actually expect. Destiny appears to be the best comparison based on what we know, which is that you're playing in a shared world as a "freelancer" wearing an exosuit. However, BioWare has confirmed that multiplayer is optional. It promises "you can choose to play through the story with only your friends, or even on your own." Games have often struggled with making the story in a multiplayer game feel like you are truly the central character, but BioWare is "taking this problem head-on and structuring the entire game design to provide a specific solution for this." That's...vague, but BioWare is at least saying the right things. EA Play should provide us with a much better sense of how the studio is blending open-world action and third-person shooter gameplay, as well as whether it can avoid the pratfalls that have held Destiny back. Anthem is due out early in 2019.
Battlefield V (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
We now have a ton of information around the next Battlefield game, which will be set in WWII. Although we haven't been able to play yet in order to confirm what was shown in the first reveal trailer, we have an extensive breakdown of what we know so far. Battlefield V introduces a large number of new mechanics that drive squads together and get them playing objectives. This includes the idea of ammo scarcity, the ability to build and fortify objectives, the ability to tow weapons with vehicles, and a new squad commander radio in order to call in powerful attacks. The campaign will focus on more personal stories from WWII, and some locations already shown are the mountains of Norway, French Countryside, and North Africa. The game will also have a co-op campaign with randomly generated elements called Combined Arms. Battlefield V will launch for everyone on October 19 and will not have a premium pass. New content is planned to roll out on a regular schedule through the Tides of War live service starting in November. Players will be able to participate in timed events and challenges to unlock a large variety of customization for their soldiers not seen in previous Battlefield games, including individual items of clothing. We should get our first hands-on at E3.
Bayonetta 3 (Switch)
Bayonetta 3 is the latest entry in the critically acclaimed action game series by developer Platinum Games. Revealed at The Game Awards 2017, little has been said about the game since. In the years before its reveal, series creator Hideki Kamiya had often discussed the possibility of a third game. Both Kamiya and Bayonetta 2 director Yusuke Hashimoto expressed interest in a new entry and stated that they still had ideas they'd love to pursue in future games. Bayonetta 3 will be a Switch exclusive, as Nintendo is funding its development--similar to Bayonetta 2 for Wii U. With so little known about Bayonetta 3, there's still so much to learn, and we're hoping that E3 2018 will be the platform that both Nintendo and Platinum Games uses to discuss it.
Beyond Good and Evil 2 (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Beyond Good and Evil 2 is the long-awaited successor to the 2003 original by acclaimed developer Michel Ancel. Revealed at Ubisoft's E3 2017 press conference, the game was long believed to be vaporware after having been stuck in development since at least 2007. The game takes place several generations prior to the events of the first game. You play as a space pirate who starts the game at the bottom of the world's social ladder. Unlike the original, Beyond Good and Evil 2 plays more like a traditional RPG where you complete activities and increase your stats. As you progress, you assemble a crew, explore various planets, and create your own society of like-minded pirates. The game also features multiplayer elements, though not much has been revealed about how they'll work. Unlike recent games in its catalog, Ubisoft has been focused on involving people in Beyond Good and Evil 2's development via the Space Monkey Program, a community forum where people can contribute ideas and offer feedback to developers. While Beyond Good and Evil 2 only entered active development just before its reveal at E3 2017, we're hoping that Ancel will offer another look at how the game is shaping up at this year's big show.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night (PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch)
Renowned Castlevania developer Koji Igarashi is almost ready to launch his first project after striking out from Konami, and if you're familiar with Igarashi's past, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night shouldn't come as too much of a surprise. This side-scrolling action game is set in an anime-tinged gothic world built on top of a sprawling map, with plenty of puzzles, boss battles, and upgrades to uncover. Originally pitched on Kickstarter back in 2015 (a campaign that was fully funded in a single day), Bloodstained is currently set to launch on Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC sometime in 2018. Igarashi and his co-developers from Inti Creates might as well take advantage of E3 to keep spreading the word, but a recent surprise announcement has already captured the attention of fans of old-school side-scrollers. A few weeks before E3, an original 8-bit Castlevania-esque game was given to backers for free and put up on most digital storefronts for about $10. Anyone interested in Bloodstained's ongoing development can follow the latest announcements over at the game's Kickstarter page. Be sure to keep an eye on the date next to the posts! Igarashi and co pulled a fast one when they announced that Bloodstained would passively mine digital currencies. Thankfully, this one was just an April fool's joke.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
As part of the Black Ops 4's big announcement event in May, we learned that this year's entry in the juggernaut shooter series does not have a traditional campaign. In lieu of that, the game will offer an assortment of solo missions that revolve around each of the game's Specialist characters. Activision says these missions--which are set between Black Ops 2 and 3--will deliver the franchise's iconic set-piece moments, while also diving into some backstory. In another first for the series, Black Ops 4 will offer a Battle Royale-type mode called Blackout where players will fight to the death to become the last person or squad standing. We don't know all the details yet, but Activision is promising to do battle royale "the Black Ops way," and we're likely to hear more about that soon. Traditional head-to-head multiplayer is also back, along with an all-new Zombies experience. Developer Treyarch created the fan-favourite mode, and this year it looks bigger and better than ever with three distinct maps offering experiences that pull from wildly different things like the ill-fated Titanic and Roman battle arenas. Black Ops 4 launches on October 12 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC (through Battle.net).
Crackdown 3 (Xbox One, PC)
Crackdown 3 has been in development for at least four years; we first heard about it back in 2014 after Microsoft used the game to demonstrate its cloud-based server technology, which would allow for environmental destruction on a large scale. The sight of giant buildings crashing down within the context of Crackdown's open world was an exciting prospect, but the game has largely gone dark. After another delay, Crackdown 3 is currently slated for release in 2018. As such, it's fair to expect to see a sizable portion of it during Microsoft's E3 presentation. The company has been criticized in recent years for lacking exciting exclusives. An open-world game with impressive destruction and the same delightful blend of superhero powers and action would be a terrific showcase for Xbox One.
Cyberpunk 2077 (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
It feels like CD Projekt Red has been working on this game forever. First announced in 2012, Cyberpunk 2077 is the developer's next major game after The Witcher 3--which means it has a lot to live up to. It, too, is a massive open-world RPG, but this one is set in the future, just like Cyberpunk 2020, the tabletop game it's based on. The game takes place in Night City, California, a fictional metropolis between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The developer has been fairly tight-lipped about Cyberpunk 2077 since the initial announcement, but we do know it aims to be even bigger in scope than The Witcher 3 and will support some kind of multiplayer component. But CD Projekt Red has been clear that fans of Witcher-style solo campaigns don't need to worry--the game will still feature a meaty single-player experience. CD Projekt Red is confirmed as an E3 2018 attendee, so we hope to learn more soon.
Days Gone (PS4)
We first learned about Days Gone during Sony's press conference at E3 2016. The publisher showed an announce trailer and a gameplay demo that revealed a somber game about a biker trying to make his way in a post-apocalyptic Pacific Northwest. You play as Deacon St. John, a bounty hunter traveling through a broken world that's infested with zombie-like creatures called Freakers. What caused the apocalypse is a mystery, as is much of the game's plot. But we've seen plenty of the enemies that sure do look like zombies, despite developer Bend Studios swearing up and down that they're not. These creatures lust for violence and have a tendency to group together in fast-moving hordes, just like the zombies in World War Z. Though it was originally set to release in 2018, Sony announced in March that Days Gone would be delayed until 2019. That's where we stand now, but we hope to see more of the game at E3 2018.
Death Stranding (PS4)
Hideo Kojima is in a class of his own when it comes to making you want something you know next to nothing about. Ever since the debut of Death Stranding at E3 2016, the year following Kojima's very public post-Metal Gear Solid V departure from Konami, we've been trying to understand what exactly is going on with Norman Reedus and the enigmatic and near-lifeless world where the laws of time and space are in flux. So far we've seen only three incredibly cryptic trailers that showcase some amazing visuals, but they have left us even more confused. According to Kojima, his upcoming game--published by Sony and running on the same engine as Horizon: Zero Dawn--is an open-world action game with online elements. Other than that, we have next to no clue regarding how it will play. What we do know is that Norman Reedus plays a character named Sam who's exploring a world where the very rain--known as Timefall--will cause people to rapidly age upon exposure. Oh yeah, and there's a baby in a high-tech container, and Mads Mikkelsen--who can control a group of skeleton soldiers wielding weapons from World War II--may or may not be the villain. It was recently confirmed that Death Stranding will be one of the four major titles to be presented at Sony's E3 2018 press conference, and Kojima himself has even been sharing some teases of the game on social media. We'll likely see some actual gameplay of Death Stranding this time around, and we'll probably be just as confused as before. And that's OK. We're looking forward to Kojima sharing some even more ridiculous and grotesque footage.
The Division 2 (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
2016's The Division got off to a hot start, but it quickly fell off the map due to lingering issues that pushed players to different games. To its credit, Ubisoft kept updating The Division to make it better, releasing more content to keep existing players pleased. Many would agree that the game eventually got to a better place. But for many others, it wasn't enough to bring them back. With The Division 2, which is in the works at the same developer--Massive Entertainment--we'll hopefully get a better-realized, more fully fleshed out multiplayer shooter experience. The first game did many things well, from its intuitive co-op and matchmaking, to its tense and thrilling Dark Zone. It was set in a post-disaster Manhattan and offered a faithfully recreated version of the iconic city. We don't know yet if The Division 2 will also be set in Manhattan or what other advancements it may make, but it's definitely one of our most anticipated games.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age (PS4, PC, Switch)
Will the eleventh core entry in the Dragon Quest saga finally be the one to break through to mainstream western success? The last major DQ game was back in 2010--Sentinels of the Starry Skies on the Nintendo DS--and Nintendo's 3DS handhelds have gotten reissues of the earlier entries in the series since then. But outside of the offshoot Dragon Quest Heroes games, this'll be the first entry on home consoles since the PS2 era and the first time the series will be available on PC (in the West) ever. The alliterative title illustrates Dragon Quest's playful nature, and the colorful enemies and turn-based combat are mainstays of the series. But longtime fans know that Dragon Quest's charm comes from its endearing stories and puns that rival Monster Hunter's loquacious wordplay. And the possibility of yet another great game on Switch makes the wait for DQ11 all the more difficult.
Final Fantasy VII Remake (PS4)
Since it was announced in 2015, the most notable headline regarding the Final Fantasy VII Remake was that Square Enix's partner studio on the project, Cyberconnect2 (.Hack, Asura's Wrath, Naruto Shippuden) would be relegated to the sidelines. This shift was the result of a decision to make the remake a multi-game project in order to avoid making cuts to the original story. The current aim is to make each game roughly the same size as Final Fantasy XIII. The best look we've had at the game thus far was the PSX 2015 trailer, which landed a mere few months after the game's announcement. In that two-minute-plus trailer, we got a look at the opening scene where Cloud, Barret, Biggs, and Wedge infiltrate an energy plant, as well as a glimpse at the real-time combat system. By all appearances, Final Fantasy VII Remake will play a bit like Final Fantasy XV, but it's difficult to say without hands-on experience, and there's no telling what's changed since Cyberconnect2 handed over key development to Square-Enix. Hopefully, if we end up seeing Final Fantasy VII Remake at E3, we will have more definitive answers.
Ghost of Tsushima (PS4)
Since Infamous: First Light released in 2014, the public has been kept in the dark as to what developer Sucker Punch Productions has been working on. Sony had confirmed in 2015 that the studio was working on a new game and that it was playable. We finally learned what it has in development at Paris Games Week 2017 when Sucker Punch Productions unveiled Ghost of Tsushima, an open-world samurai-themed action game. Ghost of Tsushima is set on the island of Tsushima during the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1294. You play as a lone samurai turned vengeful assassin--likely fighting to drive out the Mongol army from Japan. The game appears to take you to numerous locales across Tsushima, which includes rural villages, bamboo forests, and wide-open fields. A brief instance at the end of the teaser showcased the ability to throw bombs and surprising enemies with a jumping attack from above. Sony hasn't said much about Ghost of Tsushima since its initial reveal trailer half a year ago. However, the company has confirmed that it'll talk more about Ghost of Tsushima at its E3 2018 press conference.
Kingdom Hearts III (PS4 and Xbox One)
It's important to remember that the original Kingdom Hearts came out in 2002. Back then, the absurd premise was initially laughed off as a too-weird-to-work idea, but upon playing it, players were introduced to an incredibly heartfelt and charming story that coupled the cheerfulness of classic Disney with some engaging action-RPG gameplay. While exploring several classic Disney worlds with Sora, Donald Duck, and Goofy, they'd battle some well-known Disney villains and discover the almighty power of friendship. As cheesy as that sounds, it all worked, and Kingdom Hearts is a game that stuck with fans over the years. Its direct-sequel was released in 2006, and while we've had a number of games that covered several side-stories and events with Sora and his friends in the meantime, Kingdom Hearts III wasn't officially announced until E3 2013. It's been many years since we've seen Sora and crew in a mainline entry of the series, and the characters' time away has shown us some remarkable growth. With many of Kingdom Hearts' most diehard fans growing into adulthood, Sora has grown up as well, showing a newfound level of maturity. It'll interesting to see how E3 2018 will turn out for Kingdom Hearts III. We'll likely see more gameplay and the reveal of some upcoming worlds at the show, but there is one thing coming up that will excite fans even more. During a recent event, Kingdom Hearts' director, Tetsuya Nomura, stated that the official release date will be revealed. It's been a long time coming for the next major game in the series, and it now looks like the end is in sight.
The Last of Us Part II (PS4)
Naughty Dog's follow-up to 2013's The Last of Us may be one of the most highly anticipated games of E3 2018. The Last of Us Part II sees the return of Ellie and Joel, with Ellie as the main playable character. A brutal trailer unveiled at last year's Paris Games Week didn't show Joel or Ellie at all, though; it instead featured an unknown young woman who is tortured by a mysterious group of people, and it concluded with Infected rushing the scene. We haven't seen much of the game itself, but we do know some background details. The first game's director, Bruce Straley, isn't returning to direct the sequel. Naughty Dog's Neil Druckmann has also stated that if the first game's theme is love, the theme of Part II is hate--and that neither Joel nor Ellie is safe from harm.
Mario Tennis Aces (Switch)
Mario might dabble in a lot of sports, but Tennis seems to be his true passion. Mario Tennis Aces marks the eighth dedicated Mario tennis game, putting it on the same level as the Mario Kart series. And while this version will include the same in-depth playing mechanics as previous entries, it will also incorporate some Wii Sports-like physicality. Players will be able to swing their joy-con like a racket to serve up a more visceral on-the-court experience. Aces will include new characters (including a large but surprisingly spry-looking Chain Chomp), but the biggest change comes from the outfits. Mario is finally getting rid of the overalls in order to play tennis in shorts and a polo shirt. In every previous game, Mario has retained his trademark plumbers outfit, but this time, he's going for a comfortably sporty look. Just kidding. The bigger change is the adventure-like RPG mode. There's a story to explore that centers around a mystical racket along with bosses to battle and minigames to conquer. But those outfits are pretty fun too, right?
Metro Exodus (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Metro Exodus continues the legacy of the post-apocalyptic first-person shooter series from Ukrainian developer 4A Games. What makes Metro special is its foreboding atmosphere; the underground metro tunnels are home to the human race as the surface is far too hostile and radiated, and the setting truly evokes a sense of vulnerability and desperation. Exodus appears to be continuing this tradition by picking up two years after the events of Last Light's "good" ending. However, it seems as though series protagonist Artyom is spending much more time on the surface as he flees the Metro system alongside fellow rangers to head eastward and start a new life. But it wouldn't be Metro without irradiated beasts roaming the surface, in and around the city streets that once harbored human life. The challenge has always been surviving radiation by scavenging for gas masks and conserving your limited ammo, all while managing the threat of the deformed creatures. Although it was recently announced that Metro Exodus' launch was delayed to early 2019, publisher Deep Silver is going to be present at E3 2018, so we expect to see a bit more of the game at the show. Exodus was first revealed during Microsoft's Xbox press conference at E3 2017 and will be launching for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
Metroid Prime 4 (Switch)
Beyond the fact that Metroid Prime 4 exists and is coming to Switch at some point in the future, there's very little we can say about the game with absolute certainty. We also know that longtime Prime producer Kensuke Tanabe will lead a new team of talented developers for the project, but what that studio is and who is on the team beyond Tanabe remains a mystery. With nary an official word from Nintendo following the announcement at E3 2017-- consisting of a teaser video set against a star field, with familiar Metroid music, and the reveal of a logo--we are left to sift through rumors and wonder. The current working theories include: Bandai Namco is co-developing, it is scheduled to launch in 2018, and it may feature the character Sylux, who was confirmed by Tanabe to be in a spaceship featured in the special ending of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. What we know about Sylux is mostly based on lore introduced in Nintendo DS's Metroid Prime: Hunters and, oddly enough, Super Smash Bros. Brawl (in a trophy description). But at the end of 2017's Metroid Prime: Federation Force, we also caught a glimpse of Sylux releasing a metroid from captivity. Is it a hint? Only time will tell.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Xbox One, PC)
The 2015 game Ori and the Blind Forest is like what you'd get if you mixed a Pixar movie with Super Metroid. It's a drop-dead gorgeous game that's clearly inspired by the sprawling side-scrollers of the '90s. It has modern game features like an ability tree and an orchestral score, but it maintains an "old-school hard" level of challenge. In a teaser trailer that debuted at E3 2017, we got our first glimpse of the sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps. It looks more or less like the original, and it still stars Ori, the glowing guardian of the forest. We also get a look at what seem to be bosses that are dozens of times bigger than the diminutive hero. The teaser closes with a shot of a sad owl looking at the statues or bodies of two larger owls. While it's not stated outright, this seems to be a child of Kuro, the villain of the first game. As the owl mourns, Ori comes in and puts an arm around its shoulder. That's all we know so far about this sequel, but we will probably learn more at E3 2018.
Pokemon Switch (Switch)
At last year's E3, Nintendo announced a new Pokemon game for Nintendo Switch. The tease didn't include a title, logo, key art, or really any details at all--just that series developer Game Freak would be making the game, which will be a "core RPG" that "may not release for over a year." It's been a year now, of course, and although nothing has been confirmed for E3, it would make sense for Nintendo to give more details soon.
Rage 2 (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Maybe it's a coincidence, or maybe it's impressive damage control on Bethesda's part, but the recent reveal of Rage 2 and the release of two trailers came hot on the heels of the unusual leak from Walmart just weeks prior to E3. So what has Bethesda shown thus far? A lot, surprisingly. The first trailer didn't feature any gameplay, but it set the stage for Rage 2's new tone with a fun track by rocker Andrew W.K. and a lot of neon-tinted actors in punk-ish, post-apocalyptic armor rocking out. The gameplay trailer was obviously more revealing and gave us a glimpse into a dreary yet-oddly enticing wasteland. Compared to the original Rage, the sequel doesn't seem to take itself too seriously, and will take advantage of that fact by giving you access to outlandish vehicles and weapons with which to battle twisted mutants and other deranged survivors. All of this is set to take place in an open world. The gameplay seen thus far seems reminiscent of Destiny or Borderlands' first-person action, but with Avalanche Studios behind the wheel it's safe to say that Rage 2 will have a feel all its own. For a more reasonable example of what the team may do with the world, we can look to two of its previous projects: Just Cause 3 and Mad Max. It's also been confirmed that id Software (Doom, Rage, Quake Champions) will co-develop Rage 2, hopefully to keep an eye on the shooting mechanics. We should find out a lot more during Bethesda's E3 press conference on June 10.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (PS4, Xbox One)
Rockstar typically doesn't have a big presence at E3; the company's games are big enough to draw hype on all their own without the need to share the spotlight with other companies. But there's always the chance that there'll be a new trailer or feature announcement during someone's stage show for Red Dead Redemption 2. As many teases as we've seen around the game's Western story, there are even more unexplored mysteries. What's the gunplay like? What new features will the game introduce? And most importantly, how will multiplayer work? Don't expect to get a full demo or even to see much gameplay, but another Red Dead tease is always possible.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Shadow of the Tomb Raider is the third entry in the Tomb Raider reboot series. Square Enix officially revealed the game was in development March 2018, though it was technically leaked last year when a Square Enix employee was spotted in a subway train working on a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation with the game's name. While the game will be developed primarily by Eidos Montreal, it's worth noting that original reboot developer Crystal Dynamics will provide additional development on the project. You once again play as Lara Croft, who is on an expedition to Latin America in search of a Mayan relic. However, Trinity, a paramilitary organization who tried to hunt down Lara in the previous game, is also seeking the relic for its own gain. During the expedition, Lara sets off a Mayan apocalypse, which throws her down a journey to save the world. Shadow of the Tomb Raider sports a few key additions to the series formula, which includes revamped swimming controls for underwater exploration as well as more sophisticated stealth and AI systems. The game is scheduled to release on September 14, but we're hoping Square Enix intends to offer more details about the game at this year's E3.
Skull & Bones (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Inspired by the best part of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag--the sailing--Skull & Bones is a standalone adventure on the high seas. While there will be a multiplayer treasure-hunting component, and you'll also be able to challenge other pirates in their customized galleys, S&B will include a single-player campaign if you'd prefer to go it alone. Ubisoft has revealed very few gameplay details so far, and there's little chance that the game will even be released this year. But for anyone who might've gotten a taste for piracy in Sea of Thieves (or who really miss AC4), there are going to be a lot more looting adventures to learn about during E3.
SoulCalibur VI (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
The announcement at The Game Awards of SoulCalibur's return was a big, awesome surprise. The weapons-based fighter was once a leading series, and the original was the game to have for every Sega Dreamcast owner. But the series was relegated to secondary status for years while Bandai Namco's other franchises dominated the spotlight. With SoulCalibur VI, it's getting a new lease on life that many would argue is justly deserved. It's also got a few new tricks up its sleeve. Following in the footsteps of other contemporary fighting games, the introduction of the Reversal Edge mechanic in SoulCalibur VI is designed to give players a more accessible and punishing means of fending off their opponent to turn the tide of battle. It's the biggest addition to the SoulCalibur formula that we know of so far, but there's one big surprise to look forward to: Geralt of Rivia is joining the cast. There's no word on a specific release date yet, but SoulCalibur VI is on the books for 2018, and that hopefully means we will get a bunch of new info during E3.
Spider-Man (PS4)
Though Spider-Man has had a spotty history when it comes to video game adaptations, Sony's upcoming exclusive looks to be one of the rare standouts. Developed by Insomniac Games--the creators of Spyro the Dragon, Ratchet and Clank, and Sunset Overdrive--the studio has paired its talents for open-world action and solid-platforming mechanics with the agility and finesse of Spider-Man's moves. Fun and verticality are some of the key things to have in a good Spider-Man game, and those are on full display in the upcoming one. According to the developer, we've only seen a fraction of what you can expect to do in the game. It picks up with Spider-Man at the top of his crime-fighting game, and the wallcrawler will still have his work cut out for him when new villains start popping up in New York City. But when he isn't battling multiple armed robbers and stopping super-powered bad guys, he'll stop to take selfies with civilians and help the locals out with their errands. Though helping kids find their balloons doesn't seem to be a thing in the game, Marvel's Spider-Man looks to fulfill the fantasy of being web-slinger quite accurately.
Star Wars | Respawn (PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Titanfall developer Respawn Entertainment is working on a new third-person Star Wars game that's being directed by a of War III director Stig Asmussen. According to publisher EA (which owns Respawn as of last year), the game is an "all-new third-person action-adventure game set in the Star Wars universe." That's all we know about the game for certain, but it's intriguing to think about what the team behind one of the most trailblazing shooters in recent years may do with such a big and beloved sci-fi license. Fans may be happy to know that Respawn boss Vince Zampella met with The Force Awakens director JJ Abrams to talk about their respective works; oh to be a fly on that wall. EA would do well to give an update on all of its upcoming Star Wars projects at E3 this year, so hopefully we will know more about Respawn's game soon.
Star Wars Project | EA Vancouver (platforms unconfirmed)
We actually know quite a bit about the Star Wars project that's in development with EA Vancouver--at least, the history of what it was, thanks to a detailed Kotaku report. But it's very likely that the single-player adventure game, codenamed "Ragtag" and formerly led by Uncharted director Amy Hennig, has gone the way of Star Wars 1313 and all but completely evaporated. In late 2017, the primary studio behind the Ragtag project, Visceral Games, was sadly closed. It had been working on this untitled Star Wars adventure since 2013, but the original game it set out to make has been effectively cancelled. EA Vancouver has since taken over completely and will pivot the game to become a "broader experience" and one that will "deliver an experience players will want to come back to for a long time to come," according to executive vice president of EA Worldwide Studios Patrick Söderlund.
Super Smash Bros. Switch (Switch)
After a bit of a wait, the next Super Smash Bros. game was confirmed for Switch. Details are scarce, but we do know that Splatoon's Inklings will join the roster for the first time, and there are of course characters we expect to return (including Mario and Bowser, judging by the silhouettes in the reveal trailer). We also know that Nintendo will be holding a Smash Bros. Switch invitational tournament during E3, and it will be playable on the show floor for attendees. As a result, we can expect to get more information about the game--like whether it's a souped-up port of Smash Bros. on Wii U or an entirely new entry from the ground up--very soon.
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