By Mat Elfring on Jul 10, 2018 10:26 pm
Let's get extreme, but not in like a late-90s/early-00s type of way with dirtbikes doing backflips and drinking Mountain Dew while wearing Jnco jeans. WWE is taking things to the extreme in its aptly titled Extreme Rules PPV. It is coming to the WWE Network on Sunday, July 15, and the show will take place at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. This will be the eighth major WWE event of the year, including the bizarre Greatest Royal Rumble PPV back in April. Last year, WWE produced 16 PPVs, but only four of them were dual-branded--meaning both superstars from Raw and Smackdown appeared on them. Now, in 2018--post-Wrestlemania 34--all WWE PPVs are dual-branded, which will cut down on the amount of events the company holds, which was every two weeks at times. WWE will be holding special events, like the previously mentioned Greatest Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia and October's Super Show-Down in Australia. In total, WWE has 14 PPVs planned for 2018. Extreme Rules This PPV may give WWE fans some insight as to what's happening August 19 at Summerslam, which will once again take place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. A few of the matches that happen here may even happen again next month. One of the newest rivalries that has legs to carry into next month is Braun Strowman vs. Kevin Owens. While their steel cage match is the first, big, sanctioned match for their rivalry, it won't be their last, regardless of the outcome. In addition to the Monster Among Men taking on Owens in a cage, the rivalry between former Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins and and current title holder Dolph Ziggler continues at Extreme Rules and has a good chance to carry into Summerslam as well. The two wrestlers have put on stellar matches in their previous meetings with each other, and a 30-minute iron man match is the perfect way to showcase both of their talents and build on the stories WWE has been setting up the past couple of months. Start Time - 12 AM BST (July 16)
- 7 PM ET
- 6 PM CT
- 5 PM MT
- 4 PM PT
Per usual, a Kickoff Show will air on the WWE Network--and most likely YouTube--one hour prior. As of this writing, there are ten matches on the card for the evening, one of which will be on the Kickoff, and we should still see another match added. Everyone who's getting ready for Extreme Rules has their favorites to win each match, and GameSpot is no different. We've gone through the upcoming card and decided with great certainty who will win each of these matches. There may be a few title changes for the evening, but one thing is for sure: it's going to be a Happy Rusev Day, no matter who wins. Make sure to come back to GameSpot on Sunday, July 17 for live coverage of WWE's Extreme Rules as well as some followup pieces as well. If you're looking for more wrestling, check out these WWE movie cameos you might have missed.
Braun Strowman vs. Kevin Owens (Steel Cage Match)
For months, I was waiting for Strowman to enter the main event picture and take the title off of Brock Lesnar. Additionally, after Chris Jericho left WWE, I was waiting for a storyline that was worthy of Kevin Owens' talent. The WWE Creative Gods have finally answered my prayers. After being trapped inside a port-a-potty and flipped over--which is Strowman's specialty--Owens found himself on the Extreme Rules card with the Monster Among Men in a steel cage match. This is perfect for this storyline, and it's easily one of the best-built matches on the card. No matter the outcome, the audience will be the winner. However, this is a rivalry I want to see continued into Summerslam, especially since Lesnar isn't going away any time soon, so an Owens win makes sense here to have him continuously taunt Strowman, who will demand a rematch. Our prediction: Owens wins
Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley
In the continuing saga of "Who Does Vince Think The Audience Will Buy As Brock's Next Opponent?" Bobby Lashley has stepped up to the plate. However, he has to get through Roman "I'm Always The #1 Contender Regardless Of My Win/Loss Record" Reigns. As much as I don't care for Lashley, I'd much rather see him in a main event picture over Reigns, if those are our only choices right now. Do we really need to see Lesnar/Reigns again? At least with Lashley, we'll get to see more than just six Superman Punches for 15 minutes. And Lashley has the build, strength, and durability to last against "The Beast." Our prediction: Lashley wins
Finn Bálor vs. "Constable" Baron Corbin
Maybe it's just me--I hope not--but Baron Corbin dropping the "Lone Wolf" gimmick and becoming the "Constable" for Stephanie McMahon has reinvigorated his career. This should be a fun match and maybe even one of the surprises of the evening. While I want Balor back in the main event picture, this rivalry has legs, and because of that, I'm giving the win to Corbin in hopes it continues into Summerslam. Our prediction: Corbin wins
Deleters of Worlds (c) vs. The B-Team
(For the Raw Tag Championship) Raw's tag team division is a bit of a mess. It feels like it's in this weird holding pattern, and there's just not a lot of hype around it. Something needs to change, and while a win for The B-Team may not be the kick in the butt the division needs, it's a push in the right direction for now. Our prediction: The B-Team wins
The Bludgeon Brothers (c) vs. Team Hell No
(For the Smackdown Tag Championship) Smackdown's tag division isn't much better than Raw's. The Bludgeon Brothers have run through the entire division on the Tuesday night show, and it's made all attempts at someone else winning the title futile in the process. Luckily, Team Hell No is back and provided some hope for Smackdown's tag team scene. While I'm hoping this is all another stepping-stone to get Bryan to take on Miz at Summerslam, I think Bryan and Kane have a chance to win the titles. Our prediction: Team Hell No wins
Carmella (c) vs. Asuka
(For the Smackdown Women's Championship) Hopefully, I'm not the only person who is excited James Ellsworth is back, even though Carmella doesn't need him around anymore. Obviously, Ellsworth will be involved, even though Carmella and Asuka could easily have a great match on their own. In a perfect world, this would be a great match to showcase Carmella and have her look like a champion who could stand on her own. However, I have a feeling Ellsworth is going to ruin it for her, and Asuka will somehow get the win. Our prediction: Asuka wins after Ellsworth interference goes wrong
Dolph Ziggler (c) vs. Seth Rollins (30-Minute Iron Man match)
(For the Intercontinental Championship) Remember when Dolph Ziggler won the United States Championship and abandoned it? Well, now he's the Intercontinental Champion, and I'm surprised he didn't walk away from this one as well. Ziggler and Seth Rollins have been putting on some stellar matches, so an Iron Man bout feels like the perfect fit. This is going to be a close one, but I'm giving Ziggler the win. Our prediction: Dolph Ziggler wins
Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Nia Jax (Extreme Rules match)
(For the Raw Women's Championship) Nia Jax will get her rematch for the Raw Women's Championship after Alexa Bliss cashed in her Money in the Bank contract last month. Jax, as champion, didn't work exceptionally well the first time, primarily because she was switched from face to heel in order to take on Ronda Rousey, which made no sense. Until her character can get back on track, Bliss should and will remain champion. Our prediction: Alexa Bliss wins
Jeff Hardy (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura
(For the United States Championship) After spending the past couple months kicking AJ Styles in the groin, Shinsuke Nakamura has moved on to challenge Jeff Hardy for his United States Championship. This has to be a turning point for Nakamura. His character is working so well as a heel, and he's got to win a title sooner or later. A long-term rivalry between these two would be great, but it needs to start with a Nakamura win. Our prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura wins
AJ Styles (c) vs. Rusev
(For the WWE Championship) Happy Rusev Day! Anyone else feel like this match came out of left field? Sure, Rusev has a huge following behind him as of late, and at some point, he should be back in the title picture, but this feels a little too quick. AJ Styles has been a phenomenal champion for Smackdown, and it's just not time for the title to go to someone else yet. Our prediction: AJ Styles wins
By Chris Reed on Jul 10, 2018 10:21 pm
From free in-game bonuses to physical items and limited special editions, there are plenty of reasons to pre-order a game. And with all the hyped-up games to look forward to in 2018 and 2019, it can be tough to stop yourself from locking down your copy long before release. There's nothing wrong with that, but if you're going to place a pre-order, you'll want to come prepared. Game releases nowadays can be complicated things, with numerous editions and pre-order bonuses, all offering different sets of goodies to anyone who buys. Retailers sometimes even have exclusive bonuses, so where you place your pre-order can be just as important as which edition you pick. It's a heap of information, all spread out across the internet. If only there were somewhere you could go to get all the information you need in one place. Turns out there is, and you've found it. We've whipped up guides for all the biggest games you can pre-order now, most of which will be coming out in 2018 or 2019. These guides have all the information about pre-order bonuses you stand to receive, what comes in each special edition of the game, and how much everything costs across different retailers. With all of the info in one place, you can make an educated buying decision and pre-order the right edition for you, at the best price available. A few cautionary notes before you whip out that credit card. When it comes to pre-orders, some things are subject to change. Games get delayed all the time, and sometimes advertised features don't make it into the final game. It's also wise to look at the fine print before pre-ordering a game. Some retailers require you to put down a bit of money up front, while others require full payment at the time of pre-order and don't offer refunds. Others, like Amazon, let you lock in your pre-order without putting any money down, and let you cancel at any time. With that out of the way, let's dive into pre-order guides for some of the biggest games releasing soon. Some links to supporting retailers are automatically made into affiliate links, and GameSpot may receive a small share of those sales.
Anthem
A new shared-world shooter is on the horizon. It's called Anthem, and it's set to release February 22, 2019 for PC, PS4, and Xbox One. Developed by BioWare, Anthem is a sci-fi action RPG that puts players in the role of Freelancers, soldiers who wear high-tech customizable suits called Javelins. Pre-ordering Anthem gets you special beta access as well as some other goodies. There's also a special Legion of Dawn edition you might consider. Click below for full details.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey will take us to Ancient Greece. We're hoping it will have the grandeur of Assassin's Creed Origins' cities, but also more going on outside of the cities to justify such a large game world. It will release for Xbox One, PS4, and PC on October 5. Assassin's Creed Odyssey is one of the more complicated releases of 2018, coming in no fewer than six different editions. Click below for details.
Battlefield 5
EA has announced Battlefield V will release for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC on October 19. The series has hopped around between conflicts and time periods, but Battlefield V is bringing us back to World War II. It will have a single-player campaign that's divided into short stories--much like 2016's Battlefield 1--plus an array of multiplayer modes that include both fan favorites and new modes like Airborne. For more information, here's everything we know about Battlefield V. Pre-ordering Battlefield V gets you access to a handful of pre-order bonuses; the game also comes in two editions. Click below for full details.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4
Activision has revealed this year's installment of the annual Call of Duty franchise. It's Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, and it's coming to PS4, Xbox One, and PC on October 12. While it won't feature a traditional campaign like previous installments, it will come with single-player missions, plus loads of multiplayer content--including a battle royale-style mode--plus, of course, Zombies. Pre-ordering Black Ops 4 gets you beta access. The game also comes in a number of different editions. Click below for details.
Cyberpunk 2077
From the minds that brought you The Witcher 3 comes a new RPG, set in a completely different universe. Cyberpunk 2077 will be a single-player RPG driven by choice and in-depth character customization. We're expecting to see it released on PC, and possibly PS4 and Xbox One. This is a pretty basic pre-order so far, but we'll update the article if more editions are announced down the line. Click below for details about where you can pre-order the game and how much it costs.
Death Stranding
Game director Hideo Kojima might be done with the Metal Gear series, but that doesn't mean he's done with video games. After parting ways with Konami in 2015, Kojima opened a new studio with the help of Sony. The company's first project is the PS4 exclusive Death Stranding, a mysterious game that somehow becomes even more cryptic with the release of each new trailer. Pre-order information is scarce at the moment, but you can lock in your pre-order at a handful of retailers right now.
Destiny 2: Forsaken
Developer Bungie has revealed Destiny 2's big year-two expansion. It's called Forsaken, and it launches on September 4. Just like The Taken King for the original Destiny, Forsaken is a standalone expansion you'll have to buy separately even if you purchased Destiny 2's expansion pass. In fact, you can even buy a new "annual pass" to pre-order three additional content releases that will come out after Destiny 2: Forsaken. You can pre-order Destiny 2: Forsaken in a number of different configurations. Details at the link below.
Dragon Quest IX: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Dragon Quest 11: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a standalone story that will follow an unnamed hero and his friends as he embarks on a new journey to save the world as a Luminary. It will launch on September 4 on PS4 and PC. You have a couple of options for pre-ordering the game. Find all the information you need at the link below.
Fallout 76
For anyone wondering when we'll get to return to the wasteland after 2015's Fallout 4, Bethesda has answered that question with the announcement of Fallout 76. The game has been confirmed for PC, PS4, and Xbox One. It appeared during Bethesda's presentation at E3 2018, where we learned a ton--including the fact that it's an online, multiplayer-enabled game. We also got a release date: November 14, 2018. You can pre-order the game to get access to a beta, but you'll have to choose which edition to buy first. Details at the link below.
FIFA 19
FIFA 19 is coming to Xbox One, PS4, PC, and Nintendo Switch on September 28. The title marks the first game in the franchise to hold the official Champions League license since the 2007 spin-off UEFA Champions League 2006-2007, giving FIFA a near monopoly over the world's major soccer licenses. A number of editions of FIFA 19 are coming out. You can find everything you need to know to pre-order it at the following link.
Forza Horizon 4
Playground's latest open-world racing title, Forza Horizon 4 was revealed at E3 2018's Xbox briefing. This time around the game will be set in Britain, with a shared open-world and dynamic seasons. Forza Horizon 4 will release on October 2 for Xbox One and PC. You have some options for buying Forza Horizon 4, which are laid out at the link below.
Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima will be heading exclusively to PlayStation 4, though no release date has been announced yet. Made by Sucker Punch, the developer behind the Infamous series, Ghost of Tsushima is an open-world action game set in feudal Japan. You play as one of the only samurai to survive the Mongol invasion of the island of Tsushima in 1274. Your job is to sneak around, fight enemies, and take the island back. We still don't have a release date quite yet, but you can pre-order it for PS4 right now. There's not much pre-order info on this one yet, but we'll add more as it comes in. In the meantime, you can find what we know at the link below.
Hitman 2
It's official: Hitman 2 is coming to PS4, Xbox One, and PC on November 13, 2018. Developed by IO Interactive and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Hitman 2 follows the further bloody adventures of everyone's favorite bald, barcoded assassin, Agent 47. A number of different editions are coming out for this game, so be sure to check out the details at the link below.
Just Cause 4
Just Cause 4 was just revealed at the Xbox E3 2018 press conference, and the series is back with more explosions and absurdity. This time around, we'll be spending some time with returning protagonist Rico Rodriguez in the thick of the jungle. Familiar gadgets such as grappling hooks, wingsuits, and parachutes will return, as will vehicles such as jets and boats. Just Cause 4 will launch December 4 on Xbox One, PS4, and PC. You have two editions to choose from when pre-ordering Just Cause 4. Details at the link below.
Kingdom Hearts III
Five years after its reveal at E3 2013, Kingdom Hearts 3 finally has a release date, and it's open for pre-orders now too. We know that this will be the closing chapter to the overarching saga of the core titles and will take us through several beloved Disney worlds such as Toy Story, Hercules, and Monsters Inc. Kingdom Hearts 3 is set to release on January 29, 2019 on Xbox One and PS4. A number of editions are available for pre-order. Get all the information at the link below.
The Last of Us Part 2
The 2013 game The Last of Us is widely considered one of the best games of the PS3 generation. It was impeccably crafted, with cinematic style, satisfying game mechanics, and a story that cut right to the bone. All of which is to say, if you're excited for The Last of Us Part 2, you're far from alone. While we don't have a release date for this PS4 exclusive, you can already lock in your pre-order. There's not much info yet, but you can pre-order it at Best Buy right now. We'll add more information to the link below as it comes in.
Madden NFL 19
It may not be a surprise, but it's official: Madden NFL 19 is coming to PS4, Xbox One, and PC on August 10. This year's installment features improvements to the graphics and animation, thanks to Real Player Motion Technology. Players will also have better tools for building their roster and new ways to train and develop the players. You can find more details here. The game is getting a couple of editions you can pre-order now, with details at the link below.
NBA 2K19
At this point it's no surprise when publisher 2K reveals a new annual installment of the official NBA basketball video game. NBA 2K19 is slated to come out for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC on September 11, 2018, but you can pre-order a copy now. Two versions of the game will be available at launch, and you can find the full details at the link below.
Pokemon: Let's Go Pikachu/Eevee
The Pokemon invasion of your Nintendo Switch has begun. The "free to start" RPG Pokemon Quest is already available, and a new core Pokemon game is heading our way in late 2019. But the lovable critters aren't done with Switch yet. Coming November 16, 2018 are Pokemon: Let's Go Pikachu / Eevee, a pair of games designed for newcomers to the franchise and for players who got their start with the mobile game Pokemon Go. While there's not much news yet about various editions for this pair of games, you can pre-order now to get an adorable keychain. Details at the link below.
Rage 2
Rage 2 is an open-world shooter set in a Mad Max-like post-apocalypse that's coming to PS4, PC, and Xbox One sometime in Spring 2019. Pre-ordering Rage 2 gets you an exclusive mission as well as some other in-game items. You have a selection of editions to choose from, including one that comes with a gross talking head statue. Details at the link below.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Judging by the amount of fan fervor it's produced, Red Dead Redemption 2 promises to be one of the biggest games of the year. It stars Arthur Morgan and the Dutch van der Linde gang--whose members include John Marston, the star of the original game. Red Dead Redemption 2 is coming to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on October 26, 2018. You have quite a few options for buying this game, and each edition comes with its own physical and/or in-game extras. Check out the details below.
Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 originally launched on the PS One in 1998, but just like the zombies in the game, it's getting a new lease on life. A Resident Evil 2 remake is set to launch on January 25, 2019 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. It will cover much of the same ground as the original, but from a whole new perspective. Two editions of this game are coming out. You can read about them--and the pre-order bonuses--below.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
When Shadow of the Tomb Raider releases on September 14 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, developer Crystal Dynamics says, we will finally experience the "defining moment as she becomes the Tomb Raider." This rebooted series has been terrific, so let's hope Shadow of the Tomb Raider is a fitting end to the beginning of Lara Croft's story. This game has editions galore, so click the link below to find which one is right for you.
Shenmue I & II
A collection of Shenmue I & II is heading to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC on August 21. This collection contains the original Shenmue, which launched on the Dreamcast in 1999, as well as the 2001 sequel, which came out on both Dreamcast and the original Xbox. The suggested retail price for the collection is $30. No pre-order bonus or special editions here, but you can save a few bucks by buying this collection from certain retailers. Details at the link below.
Skull & Bones
Set sail on the Indian Ocean, a frontier region that's rife with riches. It's also a battleground between pirates, trading corporations, and colonial forces. This is Skull & Bones, an upcoming shared-world game that has you assemble a crew and engage in various modes of naval combat. It's expected in 2019, but you can pre-order it now. Check the link below for details.
Spider-Man
Insomniac's next game is Spider-Man, an action-filled game that doesn't just rehash the hero's origin story. Instead, it finds an experienced Peter Parker and his superhero alter ego defending New York City from a super villain threat. The game launches September 7 exclusively for PlayStation 4. Lots of pre-order bonuses are attached to this game, and it comes in a number of editions. Find the full details at the link below.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The list of things in life that are totally dependable is short, but it contains things like death, taxes, and a new Smash Bros. game on every Nintendo console. Nintendo's latest hardware is no exception--the company has announced that Super Smash Bros. Ultimate will be coming to Nintendo Switch on December 7, 2018. No special editions or pre-order bonuses so far, but you can save some money at a couple of retailers. Details at the link below.
WWE 2K19
The next edition of WWE's flagship wrestling game franchise is now available for pre-order. The cover athlete for WWE 2K19 is AJ Styles, and Publisher 2K promises the game will contain a sizable roster of WWE and NXT superstars and legends. It's slated for release on October 9, 2018 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, but you can reserve your copy now. Several editions are available, so check out our pre-order guide below to choose which one is right for you.
By Peter Brown on Jul 10, 2018 10:12 pm
Only on PlayStation 4
2017 was an amazing year for the PlayStation 4. On top of a well-rounded selection of multi-platform games like Prey, Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, and What Remains of Edith Finch, the console also had fantastic exclusives like Persona 5, Gravity Rush 2, Nioh, and Horizon: Zero Dawn. And for any with an interest in virtual reality, the release of PlayStation VR offered a few more excellent titles. 2018 has been a pretty good follow-up. The PS4's library has some excellent new multi-platform games, such as Celeste and Monster Hunter: World. However, it's the exclusive indies, like Iconoclasts, and triple-A titles, like God of War, that separate the PS4 from its competition. Insomniac's Spider-Man is primed to close out the PS4's 2018 roster of console exclusives, but maybe we'll be treated to a surprise or two. Below is a full list of the PS4's biggest exclusives for 2018. For more information on each game, click through the slides ahead to find out what each game is and its release date. PS4 Console Exclusive Games In 2018We've compiled every big exclusive we know of so far here, and will continue to update this gallery with new games as they get announced. Be sure to check back often as we update this gallery with more exclusives. And if you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on Xbox One exclusives, PC exclusives, and Switch exclusives. In the meantime, which exclusives are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below.
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth - Hacker's Memory
The latest game in the long-running Digimon series presents the mysterious backstory to the events that transpired in the first Cyber Sleuth game, and features 320 Digimon from the animated series. Watch some gameplay. Developer: Media.Vision | Release Date: January 19
Iconoclasts
Iconoclasts is a Metroidvania-inspired action puzzler where you play as Robin, an unlicensed mechanic in a world ruled by a corrupt theocracy that rules the world by controlling technology. When Robin's actions inevitably provoke the powers that be to hunt down everyone she loves, she becomes embroiled in a conflict that threatens not only the safety of her family but the entire world. We gave the game a 9/10. Read our Iconoclasts review. Developer: Joakim Sandberg | Release Date: January 23
The Inpatient
The Inpatient is an unlikely prequel to Supermassive Games' 2015 horror gem, Until Dawn. It's a PSVR experience set 60 years prior to the first game, inside the foreboding halls of Blackwood Sanatorium. We gave the game a 8/10. Read our The Inpatient review. Developer: Supermassive Games | Release Date: January 23
Dissidia: Final Fantasy NT
The Dissidia games found a lot of fans back during the PSP's heyday, and more recently in Japanese arcades. The latest in the series released on PlayStation 4, courtesy of Team Ninja, and promised wild mid-air battles between Final Fantasy's most beloved and infamous characters. We gave the game a 5/10. Check out our Dissidia: Final Fantasy NT review. Developer: Team Ninja | Release Date: January 30
Shadow of the Colossus
The magical PS2 game Shadow of the Colossus was given a new lease on life with a PS4 remake. Bluepoint Games completely rebuilt every aspect of the game's world while leaving the underlying structure and mechanics intact, making Shadow of the Colossus even better than before. We gave the game a 9/10. Check out our Shadow of the Colossus review. Developer: Bluepoint Games | Release Date: February 6
The Seven Deadly Sins: Knights of Britannia
The Seven Deadly Sins: Knights of Britannia lets you enjoy the destructive action and excitement from the anime. Battle your friends in memorable fights that feature the likes of Meliodas, Elizabeth, Ban, Hawk, and the other colorful assortment of characters that live in Britannia. Watch some gameplay. Developer: Bandai Namco Games | Release Date: February 9
Moss
Moss is a fetching adventure in a magical world starring a daring and capable mouse named Quill. This game has a lot of heart, but its storybook whims can only be experienced through a PSVR headset. We gave the game a 8/10. Read our Moss review. Developer: Polyarc | Release Date: February 27
Frantics
Frantics hopes to entertain you and a few of your closest friends with 15 oddball mini-games. Designed for PlayLink support, you use your smartphone, rather than a DualShock, to participate. Developer: NapNok Games | Release Date: March 6
Bravo Team
Supermassive's PSVR game, Bravo Team, is a tactical shooter designed for two-player co-op, either locally or online; teamwork and communication are key to your success. We gave the game a 4/10. Check our Bravo Team review. Developer: Supermassive Games | Release Date: March 6
Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom
Ni No Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom outdoes its predecessor. An ambitious title, it's a character-driven RPG that doubles as a kingdom simulator and even occasionally becomes a real-time strategy game. We gave the game a 8/10. Check out our Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom review. Developer: Leveil-5 | Release Date: March 23
MLB The Show 18
The most recent addition to Sony's annual baseball series features the formidable New York Yankee, Aaron Judge. MLB The Show 18 pushes the franchise's visuals, mechanics, and authenticity to new heights. We gave the game a 9/10. Read our MLB The Show 18 review. Developer: Sony San Diego Studio | Release Date: March 27
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
Sega's serious-meets-slapstick open-world series continues its onslaught on the West with Yakuza 6: The Song of Life. It's also the first game to take advantage of the new Dragon Engine, which helps the game's lifelike renditions of Tokyo and famous Japanese actors look more convincing than ever. We gave the game a 8/10. Check out our Yakuza 6: The Song of Life review. Developer: Ryu ga Gotoku Studios | Release Date: April 17
God of War
With the pantheon of Greek gods behind him, Kratos' latest adventure takes him to the frozen Norse wilds. Though the series' familiar action remains intact, Kratos must now also care for his son, Atreus, as the two work together to overcome brutal obstacles and new opponents. We gave the game a 9/10. Check out our God of War review. Developer: Sony Santa Monica Studio | Release Date: April 20
Dragon's Crown Pro
The sumptuously illustrated beat-em-up from Vanillaware is making a comeback, and the Pro version of the game will feature new support for 4K (on PS4 Pro) and a newly recorded orchestrated soundtrack. We gave the original game a 8/10. Check out our Dragon's Crown review. Watch some gameplay of the Pro version of the game. Developer: Vanillaware | Release Date: April 24
Megadimension Neptunia VIIR
Megadimension Neptunia VIIR is essentially a rerelease of Megadimension Neptunia VII, but the new version comes with special-made PSVR sections created in an entirely new engine. Watch the trailer. Developer: Compile Heart | Release Date: May 8
Detroit: Become Human
Detroit: Become Human examines the potential complications that may arise if artificial lifeforms advance far enough to not just appear human, but convince us they feel human as well. Play through multiple outcomes based on the choices you make during calm and heated scenes alike. We gave the game a 7/10. Check out our Detroit: Become Human review. Developer: Quantic Dream | Release Date: May 25
Fighting EX Layer
Fighting EX Layer is a fighting game developed by Arika, a studio most known for its work on the cult-classic Street Fighter EX series. It includes many of the original characters from those games, as well as similar fighting mechanics. Watch the trailer. Developer: Arika | Release Date: June 28
Star Child
Star Child is a dreamy, narrative-driven platformer from a team of self-admitted sci-fi junkies for PSVR. Developer Playful Corp. is best known for the two Lucky's Tale games: Lucky's Tale for Oculus Rift and Super Lucky's Tale, an early Xbox One X title. Watch the trailer. Developer: Playful Corp. | Release Date: Summer 2018
Yakuza Kiwami 2
A remake of Yakuza 2, Yakuza Kiwami 2 continues the franchise's tradition of offering a staggering amount of different types of gameplay in a action-adventure open world. Watch the trailer. Developer: Sega | Release Date: August 28
Spider-Man
Developed by the folks behind the parkour-heavy and vibrant Sunset Overdrive, Spider-Man swings onto PS4 later this year. The game is both great looking and action packed, but we'll have to wait until September to see if the experience can truly do justice to our favorite wall-crawler. Watch some gameplay. Developer: Insomniac Games | Release Date: September 7
Blood & Truth
Blood & Truth is a PSVR game poised to build on The London Heist portion of Sony's PlayStation VR Worlds, with more immersive environments and massive shootouts. Watch the trailer. Developer: Sony London Studios | Release Date: TBA 2018
Golem
Golem is a PSVR game that gives you the power to create and control creatures made of stone. At first, you'll be limited to the confines of your virtual bedroom, but as you grow more familiar with your powers you'll eventually end up in the middle of an ancient abandoned city while controlling massive, 15-foot giants. Watch the trailer. Developer: Highwire Games | Release Date: TBA 2018
Dreams
Like Little Big Planet before it, Dreams aims to give you the power to create worlds with ease and share them with other players. Media Molecule claims that players, rather than the developers, will define what Dreams ultimately becomes. We discussed Dreams at E3 2018. Developer: Media Molecule | Release Date: TBA 2018
Concrete Genie
In Concrete Genie, players take on the role of Ash, a troubled teen who's bullied. Ash escapes his problems by painting beautiful landscapes and creatures, but when he finds some magical paint, his artwork begins to come to life. We sat down with the PixelOpus at E3 2018 to talk about Concrete Genie. Developer: PixelOpus | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Oscar Dayus on Jul 10, 2018 06:04 am
Every PS4 Game Coming In 2019 And Beyond
While there's a bunch of PS4 games coming out in 2018, there are plenty releasing next year and beyond. The current year often yields several highly-anticipated games, but there's always something further off that has us even more excited. Based on how 2019 and beyond's roster is stacking up, there's already whole lot we can't wait to play. In this feature, we're going to take a look at all the biggest games that we know are coming to Sony's flagship console in 2019 or later. That list includes big games like BioWare's new multiplayer RPG, Anthem; Ubisoft's pirate game Skull & Bones; and Sucker Punch's Infamous: Second Son follow-up, Ghost of Tsushima. You can find a full list below. PS4 Games Coming In 2019 And BeyondOther big-name games we're expecting to be released in 2019 or beyond include The Witcher developer CD Projekt Red's Cyberpunk 2077, the much-anticipated The Last of Us: Part II, and Life is Strange developer Dontnod's Twin Mirror. For more details on those games, click through this feature to see brief descriptions of all the big games coming next year or later. There's a plethora of exciting new games releasing in 2019 and beyond. While we're excited about several on this list, we're curious which ones you're looking forward to the most. Let us know in the comments below.
Anthem
Anthem is possibly BioWare's most ambitious title. Focusing on the exploits of heavily armored freelancers in on a hostile alien planet, you'll work together with other players online to take on dangerous missions while exploring the furthest reaches of the world. While this sounds a lot like Destiny, BioWare's approach to the concept of the shared-world shooter looks like an interesting change of pace from other games in the genre, and we can't wait to see more. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Babylon's Fall
Babylon's Fall is the latest game by famed studio, Platinum Games. Based on the reveal trailer, the upcoming project appears to be fantasy-themed action game. You appear to play as a knight with unique magical abilities. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Beyond Good And Evil 2
We saw a teaser of Ubisoft's spunky new space adventure, Beyond Good & Evil 2, at E3 last year. What we know now is that it will be a prequel to the 2003 game and that players can choose a male or female character and explore different planets. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Control
Control is the latest game by Remedy Entertainment, the studio behind Alan Wake and Quantum Break. The debut trailer showcased a strangely shifting world, with a protagonist who can fly and control objects using telekinesis. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Final Fantasy VII Remake is the long-awaited remake of the fan-favorite RPG. Announced at E3 2015, there has been few details about the game since. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: 2019
Cyberpunk 2077
The next game from the creators of The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077, is set in a dystopian, sci-fi future world. The game now appears more bright and vibrant than how it did during its initial tease a few years back. It appears to take place in a dazzling city of dreams, a metropolis of giant buildings adorned with dazzling screens, where organic skin is meshed with futuristic tech. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Days Gone
Days Gone takes players to a post-apocalyptic open world, set in the Pacific Northwest. The action-adventure/survival-horror game puts you in the shoes of Deacon St. John, once an outlaw and now trying to survive in a devastated world. While on the road, Deacon must battle Freakers, zombie-like humans and animals that have become mindless and violent and travel in fast-moving hordes, much like the zombies in World War Z. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Déraciné
Déraciné is an upcoming PSVR game from Dark Souls developer, FromSoftware. As a spirit summoned by a young girl in a secluded boarding school, you must prove its existence and build up bonds with other students through subtle interactions. Platforms: PSVR | Release Date: TBA
Devil May Cry 5
After years of waiting, we're finally getting a brand new Devil May Cry game. And in a rather surprising twist, it's a direct continuation to the first four Devil May Cry games. The debut trailer mainly focused on returning protagonist, Nero, who appears to be accompanied by an unnamed woman. However, the last few seconds indicated that Dante will return too. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Spring 2019
Death Stranding
Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima no longer works for Konami, but his new studio's game looks significantly weirder than that often-bizarre series. We don't know much about Death Stranding's gameplay other than it's an open-world action game. But it'll feature The Walking Dead's Norman Reedus and what appears to be a very important baby. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Dead or Alive 6
Kasumi, Hayate, Helena, and plenty of other familiar faces return to the arena in Dead or Alive 6. This fighting game will continue to utilize the franchise's staple complexity when it comes to combos and counters, while upping the realism of its visuals. Two new mechanics, Fatal Rush and Break Gauge, shake up the combat by introducing an easier way for beginners to compete. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Early 2019
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal is the upcoming sequel to the critically-acclaimed Doom reboot from 2016. The game takes everything that the previous game did and pushes it forward: the Doomslayer is more powerful than before, the number of enemies have doubled, and it takes place on Earth. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dying Light 2
In the sequel to the first-person apocalyptic survival shooter, players will have plenty more chances to practice their sweet parkour while killing zombies. However, this time around, player's choices will have real effects on the world and push the story down different paths. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Elder Scrolls VI
Bethesda finally announced the next game in the Elder Scrolls series: The Elder Scrolls VI. No other details about the game were provided outside of a short teaser. It shows a mountainous region and some fog accompanied by a version of the iconic Dovahkiin music. A setting wasn't specified, although fans are sure to do some sleuthing to narrow down the list of possibilities. Hopefully, we'll get more details sooner than later. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Ghost Of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima is the latest game by developer Sucker Punch Productions, the studio responsible for Infamous and Sly Cooper. The game 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. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Kingdom Hearts III
We've gotten sneak peeks at some of the worlds and characters that Kingdom Hearts III will contain, including Hercules, Monsters Inc., and Toy Story. We're not sure exactly where the story will specifically take Sora and friends, but we do know it is the direct sequel to Kingdom Hearts 2 and an end to the saga. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4 | Release Date: January 29, 2019
The Last Of Us: Part II
There is a huge amount of hype for Naughty Dog's next big game, The Last of Us: Part II, and hopefully we'll be learning a potential release date for the game soon. You play as Ellie this time around, not Joel. It appears she has some sort of vendetta this time around. Based on its most recent gameplay, it's likely from the death of a loved one. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus puts players back in control of Artyom. Even though Artyom will be venturing above ground this time, there will still be plenty of mutated creatures to gun down and unsettling environments to explore. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Nioh 2
In a rather surprising announcement, Sony announced the sequel to the critically-acclaimed samurai-action game, Nioh. Not much is known about the game's story or if you'll be playing as the original's protagonist, WIlliam Adams. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
The Quiet Man
The Quiet Man is a brand-new game where you play as silent protagonist who appears to be deaf. The brief trailers showed him getting into a fight and quickly dispatching two hooligans in an alleyway. As the title implies, the game's mechanics will likely involve silence and sound in some manner. According to Square Enix, more information concerning The Quiet Man will be revealed in August. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
Rage 2
Rage 2 is perhaps the most unlikely sequel to be announced, but with id Software bringing Avalanche Studios along for the ride there's plenty of reason to be excited about its potential. Avalanche has years of experience crafting large and chaotic worlds in games like Mad Max and Just Cause, with vehicle combat and special effects chief among their notable talents. Id, of course, is the studio that pioneered first-person shooting and continues to deliver hard-hitting games like 2016's Doom. It could be a match made in heaven, but we won't know until it ships sometime in 2019. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake takes the 1998 survival-horror game of the same name and remakes it from the ground up. While it faithfully recreates the game's environment and story beats, it takes liberties with the appearance and gameplay of the original. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: January 29, 2019
Skull & Bones
Ubisoft's Skull & Bones sets sail in the Indian Ocean, setting you on a quest to become a pirate of the ages. The game will feature single- and multiplayer options and is centered around naval warfare. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Sea of Solitude
Sea of Solitude is an upcoming EA Originals game about a lonely girl whose emotions manage to turn her into a monster and the world into a flooded post-apocalyptic world. She must explore this world in order to find a way to turn back into a human. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is the long-awaited new game from acclaimed studio, From Software. It appears to be expanding upon the classic Dark Souls formula by introducing stealth-action elements and more acrobatic maneuvers. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Early 2019
Starfield
For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda is creating a new IP. We don't know much about Starfield. However, based on the game's title and brief teaser trailer, it's probably safe to say that this RPG will take place in space. Platforms: The next generation of consoles, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order is the upcoming Star Wars game created by Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind the well-received Titanfall series. It takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope during the Jedi hunts. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Holiday 2019
Tom Clancy's The Division 2
Ubisoft Massive is at work on The Division 2, a follow-up to its open-world shooter, as it looks to build upon the foundation established in the previous game. This time around it's set in Washington D.C. and deals with the exploits of the Division attempting to reclaim the capital. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: March 18
Twin Mirror
Dontnod Entertainment is partnering with Bandai Namco to bring Twin Mirror, a new psychological thriller, to PC, PS4, and Xbox One in 2019. Based on the E3 2018 trailer, the story focuses on a character named Sam who wakes up one day to discover a shocking amount of blood on his clothing with no memory of the cause. As Sam attempts to piece together the events from the night before, he will explore both the real world and surreal manifestations of his own psyche. Twin Mirror looks intriguing so far, but being one big mystery, we'll have to wait until we see more of the game to get a grasp of how we ultimately fit into Sam's harrowing investigation. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Wolfenstein: Youngblood
Wolfenstein: Youngblood is set in an alternate 1980s Paris and follows the events of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. It stars series protagonist BJ Blazkowicz's twin daughters, who are working together to continue the fight against the Nazis. The game can be played solo or co-op. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch (Expected) | Release Date: 2019
By Eddie Makuch on Jul 10, 2018 06:01 am
The Waiting Is The Hardest Part
A lot of highly-anticipated games are coming out this year, but not all of them. As the great singer-songwriter Tom Petty said, the waiting is the hardest part. Many of the most exciting games are due out in 2019 or later, so we're rounding them up in this feature for your reference. Here you can learn more about BioWare's ambitious new multiplayer game Anthem, the zombie game Days Gone from Sony, and Ubisoft's pirate game Skull & Bones. While waiting for games you're excited about can be tough, there are no shortage of big, exciting games coming this year. Anthem, Days Gone, and Skull & Bones were each originally scheduled to launch in 2018, so they have been delayed. While that's a bit of a bummer, it's good to see the developers taking the time they need to make a better product in the end. Below you can find a full list of what's coming, as well as discover more details in the slides ahead. Otherwise, click through this feature here to see a full rundown of all the big games coming either next year or later. Games Coming In 2019 And BeyondWhich games are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Anthem
Anthem is easily BioWare's most ambitious title. Focusing on the exploits of heavily armored freelancers on a hostile alien planet, you'll work together with other players online to take on dangerous missions while exploring the furthest reaches of the world. While this sounds a lot like Destiny, BioWare's approach to the concept of the shared-world shooter looks like an interesting change of pace from other games of the genre. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Babylon's Fall
Babylon's Fall is the latest game by famed studio, Platinum Games. Based on the reveal trailer, the upcoming project appears to be fantasy-themed action game. You appear to play as a knight with unique magical abilities. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Battletoads
A brand-new Battletoads game has been announced. No gameplay was shown, but we did learn, however, that it will have three-player couch co-op and 2.5D graphics. In addition, the art in the game appeared hand-drawn--at least according to the announcement trailer. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA 2019
Beyond Good and Evil 2
We saw a teaser of Ubisoft's spunky new space adventure at E3 last year. What we know now about Beyond Good & Evil 2 is that it will be a prequel to the 2003 game and that players can choose a male or female character and explore different planets. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Control
Control is the latest game by Remedy Entertainment, the studio behind Alan Wake and Quantum Break. The debut trailer showcased a strangely shifting world, with a protagonist who can fly and control objects using telekinesis. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
Crackdown 3
Crackdown 3 is one of Microsoft's biggest upcoming Xbox One exclusives. The game utilizes cloud-based server technology for its multiplayer mode, which allows for environmental destruction on a large scale. It retains the gameplay of its predecessors, featuring a number of different organizations controlling the city of New Providence that you'll need to take down by killing their kingpins, destroying their bases, and destabilizing their infrastructures. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: February 2019
Cyberpunk 2077
The next game from the creators of The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077, is set in a dystopian, sci-fi future world. The game now appears more bright and vibrant than how it did during its initial tease a few years back. It appears to take place in a dazzling city of dreams, a metropolis of giant buildings adorned with dazzling screens, where organic skin is meshed with futuristic tech. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Daemon X Machina
Daemon X Machina is an upcoming mech action game. It's a collaboration between developers First Studio and Marvelous Entertainment, with an array of notable Japanese developers. In the game, you take your Arsenal, a fully customizable powered suit, out for an array of missions to fight the enemy at all costs. You can choose and equip your Arsenal with a multitude of weapons, obtain more from downed enemy Arsenals, and swap them on the fly to suit your strategy in the face of ever-changing threats. Developer: Marvelous Entertainment, First Studio | Release Date: TBA 2019
Days Gone
Days Gone takes players to a post-apocalyptic open world, set in the Pacific Northwest. The action-adventure/survival-horror game puts you in the shoes of Deacon St. John, once an outlaw and now trying to survive in a devastated world. While on the road, Deacon must battle Freakers, zombie-like humans and animals that have become mindless and violent and travel in fast-moving hordes, much like the zombies in World War Z. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Dead or Alive 6
Kasumi, Hayate, Helena, and plenty of other familiar faces return to the arena in Dead or Alive 6. This fighting game will continue to utilize the franchise's staple complexity when it comes to combos and counters, while upping the realism of its visuals. Two new mechanics, Fatal Rush and Break Gauge, shake up the combat by introducing an easier way for beginners to compete. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Early 2019
Déraciné
Déraciné is an upcoming PSVR game from Dark Souls developer, FromSoftware. As a spirit summoned by a young girl in a secluded boarding school, you must prove its existence and build up bonds with other students through subtle interactions. Platforms: PSVR | Release Date: TBA
Death Stranding
Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima no longer works for Konami, but his new studio's game, Death Stranding, looks significantly weirder than that often-bizarre series. We don't know much about Death Stranding's gameplay other than it's an open-world action game. But it'll feature The Walking Dead's Norman Reedus and what appears to be a very important baby. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima is the latest game by developer Sucker Punch Productions, the studio responsible for Infamous and Sly Cooper. The game 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. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
The Last Of Us Part II
There is a huge amount of hype for Naughty Dog's next big game, The Last of Us: Part II. One of the biggest changes for the sequel is that you play as Ellie, not Joel. We're expecting to see a lot more of the PS4 exclusive very soon. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Xbox One console exclusive Ori and the Blind Forest was a critical hit when it launched in 2015, and now developer Moon Studios is back with a sequel. Ori and the Will of the Wisps will hopefully build on the first game's ingenious platforming and compelling story, and we can't wait to see more. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Rage 2
Rage 2 is perhaps the most unlikely sequel to be announced, but with id Software bringing Avalanche Studios along for the ride there's plenty of reason to be excited about its potential. Avalanche has years of experience crafting large and chaotic worlds in games like Mad Max and Just Cause, with vehicle combat and special effects chief among their notable talents. Id, of course, is the studio that pioneered first-person shooting and continues to deliver hard-hitting games like 2016's Doom. It could be a match made in heaven, but we won't know until it ships sometime in 2019. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Sea of Solitude
Sea of Solitude is an upcoming EA Originals game about a lonely girl whose emotions manage to turn her into a monster and the world into a flooded post-apocalyptic world. She must explore this world in order to find a way to turn back into a human. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Skull & Bones
Skull & Bones sets sail in the Indian Ocean, setting you on a quest to become a pirate of the ages. The game will feature single- and multiplayer options and is centered around naval warfare. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Starfield
For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda is creating a new IP. We don't know much about Starfield. However, based on the game's title and brief teaser trailer, it's probably safe to say that this RPG will take place in space. Platforms: The next generation of consoles, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order
Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order is the upcoming Star Wars game created by Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind the well-received Titanfall series. It takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope during the Jedi hunts. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Holiday 2019
Twin Mirror
Dontnod Entertainment is partnering with Bandai Namco to bring Twin Mirror, a new psychological thriller, to PC, PS4, and Xbox One in 2019. Based on the E3 2018 trailer, the story focuses on a character named Sam who wakes up one day to discover a shocking amount of blood on his clothing with no memory of the cause. As Sam attempts to piece together the events from the night before, he will explore both the real world and surreal manifestations of his own psyche. Twin Mirror looks intriguing so far, but being one big mystery, we'll have to wait until we see more of the game to get a grasp of how we ultimately fit into Sam's harrowing investigation. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Devil May Cry 5
After years of waiting, we're finally getting a brand new Devil May Cry game. And in a rather surprising twist, it's a direct continuation to the first four Devil May Cry games. The debut trailer mainly focused on returning protagonist, Nero, who appears to be accompanied by an unnamed woman. However, the last few seconds indicated that Dante will return too. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Spring 2019
The Division 2
Ubisoft Massive is at work on The Division 2, a follow-up to its open-world shooter, as it looks to build upon the foundation established in the previous game. This time around it's set in Washington D.C. and deals with the exploits of the Division attempting to reclaim the capital. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: March 18
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal is the upcoming sequel to the critically-acclaimed Doom reboot from 2016. The game takes everything that the previous game did and pushes it forward: the Doomslayer is more powerful than before, the number of enemies have doubled, and it takes place on Earth. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dying Light 2
In the sequel to the first-person apocalyptic survival shooter, players will have plenty more chances to practice their sweet parkour while killing zombies. However, this time around, player's choices will have real effects on the world and push the story down different paths. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Elder Scrolls VI
Bethesda finally announced the next game in the Elder Scrolls series: The Elder Scrolls VI. No other details about the game were provided outside of a short teaser. It shows a mountainous region and some fog accompanied by a version of the iconic Dovahkiin music. A setting wasn't specified, although fans are sure to do some sleuthing to narrow down the list of possibilities. Hopefully, we'll get more details sooner than later. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Fire Emblem: Three Heroes
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the latest entry in Nintendo's critically-acclaimed strategy series. It retains many of the core mechanics the series is known for. Though, it does offer some changes. Battle screens are filled with armies, and you directly command one character, but they're leading a small battalion of other soldiers who join in on the attack. In addition, you can explore what looks to be a fully realized 3D world. Developer: Nintendo | Release Date: Spring 2019
Gears of War 5
Gears of War returns with its fifth entry. This time around you play as Kait, who originally appeared in Gears of War 4. This latest entry sees Kait embark on a journey to discover the truth behind the visions plaguing her mind--most likely an effect of the Locust necklace she inherited from her grandmother. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics is a turn-based strategy spin-off of the Gears of War franchise. The game takes place 12 years before the first Gears of War. You can customize your own squad to take on threats in what was described as a more aggressive version of the classical tactics formula. And of course, as a Gears game, it will feature larger-than-life boss battles. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
Kingdom Hearts III
We've gotten sneak peeks at some of the worlds and characters that Kingdom Hearts III will contain, including Hercules, Monsters Inc., and Toy Story. We're not sure exactly where the story will specifically take Sora and friends, but we do know it is the direct sequel to Kingdom Hearts 2 and an end to the saga. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4 | Release Date: January 29, 2019
Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus puts players back in control of Artyom. Even though Artyom will be venturing above ground this time, there will still be plenty of mutated creatures to gun down and unsettling environments to explore. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Nioh 2
In a rather surprising announcement, Sony announced the sequel to the critically-acclaimed samurai-action game, Nioh. Not much is known about the game's story or if you'll be playing as the original's protagonist, WIlliam Adams. Platforms: PS4 | Release Date: TBA
Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake takes the 1998 survival-horror game of the same name and remakes it from the ground up. While it faithfully recreates the game's environment and story beats, it takes liberties with the appearance and gameplay of the original. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: January 29, 2019
The Quiet Man
The Quiet Man is a brand-new game where you play as silent protagonist who appears to be deaf. The brief trailers showed him getting into a fight and quickly dispatching two hooligans in an alleyway. As the title implies, the game's mechanics will likely involve silence and sound in some manner. According to Square Enix, more information concerning The Quiet Man will be revealed in August. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is the long-awaited new game from acclaimed studio, From Software. It appears to be expanding upon the classic Dark Souls formula by introducing stealth-action elements and more acrobatic maneuvers. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Early 2019
Session
Session is a brand-new skateboarding simulation game, which was kickstarted early last year. Not much else was shown about the game, but it's at least great to hear that the skateboarding game genre isn't dead. Platforms: Xbox One | Release Date: Q3/4 2019
Wolfenstein: Youngblood
Wolfenstein: Youngblood is set in an alternate 1980s Paris and follows the events of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. It stars series protagonist BJ Blazkowicz's twin daughters, who are working together to continue the fight against the Nazis. The game can be played solo or co-op. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch (Expected) | Release Date: 2019
Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite is the latest entry in the tenured first-person shooter franchise. Not much is know about the premise of the game or when it's set, but it appears you'll be once again playing Master Chief as he embarks on another mission to save the galaxy. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Indivisible
Indivisible is the next project from Lab Zero Games, the studio behind Skullgirls. It combines Metroidvania-style exploration with a turn-based combat similar to Valkyrie Profile. Titled Indivisible, the game follows the story of Ajna. She and her father live just outside a quiet little town, but when mysterious powers awaken within her, she must embark on a journey to discover the truth behind them. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch | Release Date: TBA 2019
Metroid Prime 4
Metroid Prime 4 is the latest entry in the critically acclaimed Metroid Prime series. Unlike the previous three core entries in the franchise, the game will be made by a still unnamed developer and not Retro Studios. Platforms: Switch | Release Date: TBA
Bayonetta 3
Bayonetta 3 is the latest entry in the critically-acclaimed action game series from Platinum Games. Not much is known about the game, but its first teaser seemed to indicate that Bayonetta is going to be facing her biggest challenge yet. Platforms: Switch | Release Date: TBA
Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr.'s Journey
Following on the heels of 2017's Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga remake, the third entry in the humorous RPG series is being remastered for 3DS. This installment sees the villainous Fawful return and trick Bowser into eating a strange mushroom, causing him to inhale the Mario Bros. Along with improved visuals, the upcoming remake also features a brand-new secondary mode starring Bowser Jr. Platforms: 3DS | Release Date: TBA 2019
By Chris Pereira on Jul 10, 2018 06:00 am
All The Games
There are plenty of new and exciting games to play on Xbox One this year, but what about next year? In this feature we're rounding up all the Xbox One games that are launching next year or later. And there are more than a few exciting games releasing too. At a glance, these include titles like BioWare's multiplayer shooter Anthem, Rage 2 from Bethesda, Ubisoft's ambitious pirate game Skull & Bones, and the gorgeous-looking platformer sequel Ori and the Will of the Wisps. The Xbox and PC exclusive Crackdown 3 was supposed to launch in 2018, but was recently pushed to 2019. While not absolutely confirmed, we're expecting CD Projekt Red's Cyberpunk 2077 to also come out next year or potentially later. Below you can find a full list of the games. Otherwise, you can click through this feature to see a full roundup of all the games that are coming next year or later. Xbox One Games Releasing in 2019 And BeyondWaiting is tough, but games like these are massive endeavors that take time. Also, there are plenty of games big and small due out this year, including Red Dead Redemption 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, Battlefield V, and many, many more. In the meantime, which Xbox One games are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Anthem
Anthem is easily BioWare's most ambitious title. Focusing on the exploits of heavily armored freelancers on a hostile alien planet, you'll work together with other players online to take on dangerous missions while exploring the furthest reaches of the world. While this sounds a lot like Destiny, BioWare's approach to the concept of the shared-world shooter looks like an interesting change of pace from other games of the genre, and we can't wait to see more. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: February 22
Crackdown 3
Crackdown 3 is one of Microsoft's biggest upcoming Xbox One exclusives. The game utilizes cloud-based server technology for its multiplayer mode, which allows for environmental destruction on a large scale. It retains the gameplay of its predecessors, featuring a number of different organizations controlling the city of New Providence that you'll need to take down by killing their kingpins, destroying their bases, and destabilizing their infrastructures. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: February 2019
Cyberpunk 2077
The next game from the creators of The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077, is set in a dystopian, sci-fi future world. It appears more bright and vibrant than the initial tease a few years back. It appears to take place in a dazzling city of dreams, a metropolis of giant buildings adorned with dazzling screens, where organic skin is meshed with futuristic tech. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dead or Alive 6
Kasumi, Hayate, Helena, and plenty of other familiar faces return to the arena in Dead or Alive 6. This fighting game will continue to utilize the franchise's staple complexity when it comes to combos and counters, while upping the realism of its visuals. Two new mechanics, Fatal Rush and Break Gauge, shake up the combat by introducing an easier way for beginners to compete. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Early 2019
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Xbox One console exclusive Ori and the Blind Forest was a critical hit when it launched in 2015, and now developer Moon Studios is back with a sequel. Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds on the first game's ingenious platforming and compelling story, and we can't wait to see more. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Rage 2
Rage 2 is perhaps the most unlikely sequel to come out of E3 this year, but with id Software bringing Avalanche Studios along for the ride there's plenty of reason to be excited about its potential. Avalanche has years of experience crafting large and chaotic worlds in games like Mad Max and Just Cause, with vehicle combat and special effects chief among their notable talents. Id, of course, is the studio that pioneered first-person shooting and continues to deliver hard-hitting games like 2016's Doom. It could be a match made in heaven, but we won't know until Rage 2 ships. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Sea of Solitude
Sea of Solitude is an upcoming EA Originals game about a lonely girl whose emotions manage to turn her into a monster and her surroundings into a flooded post-apocalyptic world. She must explore in order to find a way to turn back into a human. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Skull & Bones
Skull & Bones sets sail in the Indian Ocean, setting you on a quest to become a pirate of the ages. The game will feature single- and multiplayer options and is centered around naval warfare. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: 2019
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order is the upcoming Star Wars game created by Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind the well-received Titanfall 2. Jedi Fallen Hunt takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope when the galaxy was at its darkest. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Holiday 2019
Twin Mirror
Dontnod Entertainment is partnering with Bandai Namco to create Twin Mirror, a new psychological thriller. Based on the E3 2018 trailer, the story focuses on a character named Sam who wakes up one day to discover a shocking amount of blood on his clothing and no memory as to the cause. As Sam attempts to piece together the events from the night before, he will explore both the real world and surreal manifestations of his own psyche. Twin Mirror looks intriguing so far, but being one big mystery, we'll have to wait until we see more of the game to get a grasp of how we ultimately fit into Sam's harrowing investigation. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Battletoads
A brand-new Battletoads game has been announced. No gameplay was shown, but we did learn that it will have three-player couch co-op and 2.5D graphics. In addition, the art in the game appeared hand-drawn--at least according to the announcement trailer. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: 2019
Control
Control is the latest game by Remedy Entertainment, the studio behind Alan Wake and Quantum Break. The debut trailer showcased a strangely shifting world, with a protagonist who can fly and control objects using telekinesis. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Devil May Cry 5
After years of waiting, we're finally getting a brand new Devil May Cry game. And in a rather surprising twist, it's a direct continuation to Devil May Cry 4. The debut trailer mainly focused on returning protagonist Nero, who appears to be accompanied by an unnamed woman. However, the last few seconds indicated that Dante will return too. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Spring 2019
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal is the upcoming sequel to the critically-acclaimed Doom reboot from 2016. The game takes everything that the previous game did and pushes it forward: the Doomslayer is more powerful than before, the number of enemies have doubled, and it takes place on Earth. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dying Light 2
In the sequel to the first-person apocalyptic survival shooter, players will have plenty more chances to practice their sweet parkour while killing zombies. However, this time around, player's choices will have real effects on the world and push the story down different paths. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Elder Scrolls VI
Bethesda finally announced the next game in the Elder Scrolls series: The Elder Scrolls VI. No other details about the game were provided at E3 outside of a short teaser. It shows a mountainous region and some fog accompanied by a version of the iconic Dovahkiin music. A setting wasn't specified, although fans are sure to do some sleuthing to narrow down the list of possibilities. Hopefully, we'll get more details sooner than later. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Gears 5
Gears of War returns with its fifth entry. This time around you play as Kait, who originally appeared in Gears of War 4. Gears 5 sees Kait embark on a journey to discover the truth behind the visions plaguing her mind--most likely an effect of the Locust necklace she inherited from her grandmother. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: 2019
Kingdom Hearts III
We've gotten sneak peeks at some of the worlds and characters that Kingdom Hearts III will contain, including Hercules, Monsters Inc., and Toy Story. We're not sure exactly where the story will specifically take Sora and friends, but we do know it is the direct sequel to Kingdom Hearts II and an end to the saga. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4 | Release Date: January 29, 2019
Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus puts players back in control of Artyom. Even though Artyom will be venturing above ground this time, there will still be plenty of mutated creatures to gun down and unsettling environments to explore. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
The Quiet Man
The Quiet Man is a brand-new game where you play as a silent protagonist who appears to be deaf. The brief trailers show him getting into a fight and quickly dispatching two hooligans in an alleyway. As the title implies, the game's mechanics will likely involve silence and sound in some manner. According to Square Enix, more information concerning The Quiet Man will be revealed in August. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Division 2
Ubisoft Massive's The Division 2 continues its predecessor's open-world and shooter mechanics, and looks to build upon that foundation. This time around, Division agents fight in Washington D.C. and attempt to reclaim the capital. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: March 18, 2019
Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake takes the 1998 survival-horror game of the same name and remakes it from the ground up. While it faithfully recreates the game's environment and story beats, it takes liberties with the appearance and gameplay of the original. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: January 29, 2019
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is the long-awaited new game from acclaimed studio, From Software. It appears to be expanding upon the classic Dark Souls formula by introducing stealth-action elements and more acrobatic maneuvers. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Early 2019
Session
Session is a brand-new skateboarding simulation game, which was kickstarted early last year. Not much else was shown about the game, but it's at least great to hear that the skateboarding video game genre isn't dead. Platforms: Xbox One | Release Date: 2019
Starfield
For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda is creating a new IP. We don't know much about Starfield. However, based on the game's title and brief teaser trailer, it's probably safe to say that this RPG will take place in space. Platforms: The next generation of consoles, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Wolfenstein Youngblood
Wolfenstein Youngblood is set in an alternate 1980s Paris and follows the events of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. It stars series protagonist BJ Blazkowicz's twin daughters, who are working together to continue the fight against the Nazis. The game can be played solo or co-op. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch (Expected) | Release Date: 2019
By Chris Pereira on Jul 10, 2018 05:58 am
There are a lot of PC games still to come before 2019. But next year is sure to bring a steady supply of games for the platform. Some of these games are sequels in some of the biggest gaming franchises, such as Rage 2 and Doom Eternal. Others are releases of games that are completely new IPs from the biggest developers, like Bioware's Anthem and From Software's Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Other games still are coming in 2019 due to delays, as is the case with Crackdown 3. The open-world action game has been delayed numerous times but was expected out on both PC and Xbox One in 2018. Rest assured, these games are confirmed to launch next year. For a full breakdown of everything you can expect, check out the list below. PC Games Releasing in 2019 And BeyondThere are plenty of exciting new PC games set to release next year. Let us know in the comments below which of these games you're looking forward to most, as well as what you're still hoping is announced.
Anthem
Anthem is easily BioWare's most ambitious title. Focusing on the exploits of heavily armored freelancers on a hostile alien planet, you'll work together with other players online to take on dangerous missions while exploring the furthest reaches of the world. While this sounds a lot like Destiny, BioWare's approach to the concept of the shared-world shooter looks like an interesting change of pace from other games of the genre. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Babylon's Fall
Babylon's Fall is the latest game by famed studio, Platinum Games. Based on the reveal trailer, the upcoming project appears to be fantasy-themed action game. You appear to play as a knight with unique magical abilities. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Battletoads
A brand-new Battletoads game has been announced. No gameplay was shown, but we did learn, however, that it will have three-player couch co-op and 2.5D graphics. In addition, the art in the game appeared hand-drawn--at least according to the announcement trailer. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA 2019
Beyond Good & Evil 2
We saw a teaser of Ubisoft's spunky new space adventure, Beyond Good & Evil 2, at E3 last year. What we know now is that it will be a prequel to the 2003 game and that players can choose a male or female character and explore different planets. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Control
Control is the latest game by Remedy Entertainment, the studio behind Alan Wake and Quantum Break. The debut trailer showcased a strangely shifting world, with a protagonist who can fly and control objects using telekinesis. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
Crackdown 3
Crackdown 3 is one of Microsoft's biggest upcoming Xbox One exclusives. The game utilizes cloud-based server technology for its multiplayer mode, which allows for environmental destruction on a large scale. It retains the gameplay of its predecessors, featuring a number of different organizations controlling the city of New Providence that you'll need to take down by killing their kingpins, destroying their bases, and destabilizing their infrastructures. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Cyberpunk 2077
The next game from the creators of The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077, is set in a dystopian, sci-fi future world. It appeared more bright and vibrant than the initial tease a few years back. It appears to take place in a dazzling city of dreams, a metropolis of giant buildings adorned with dazzling screens, where organic skin is meshed with futuristic tech. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dead or Alive 6
Kasumi, Hayate, Helena, and plenty of other familiar faces return to the arena in Dead or Alive 6. This fighting game will continue to utilize the franchise's staple complexity when it comes to combos and counters, while upping the realism of its visuals. Two new mechanics, Fatal Rush and Break Gauge, shake up the combat by introducing an easier way for beginners to compete. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Early 2019
Devil May Cry 5
After years of waiting, we're finally getting a brand new Devil May Cry game. And in a rather surprising twist, it's a direct continuation to the first four Devil May Cry games. The debut trailer mainly focused on returning protagonist, Nero, who appears to be accompanied by an unnamed woman. However, the last few seconds indicated that Dante will return too. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: Spring 2019
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal is the upcoming sequel to the critically-acclaimed Doom reboot from 2016. The game takes everything that the previous game did and pushes it forward: the Doomslayer is more powerful than before, the number of enemies have doubled, and it takes place on Earth. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Dying Light 2
In the sequel to the first-person apocalyptic survival shooter, players will have plenty more chances to practice their sweet parkour while killing zombies. However, this time around, player's choices will have real effects on the world and push the story down different paths. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Elder Scrolls VI
Bethesda finally announced the next game in the Elder Scrolls series: The Elder Scrolls VI. No other details about the game were provided outside of a short teaser. It shows a mountainous region and some fog accompanied by a version of the iconic Dovahkiin music. A setting wasn't specified, although fans are sure to do some sleuthing to narrow down the list of possibilities. Hopefully, we'll get more details sooner than later. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Gears 5
Gears of War returns with its fifth entry. This time around you play as Kait, who originally appeared in Gears of War 4. This latest entry sees Kait embark on a journey to discover the truth behind the visions plaguing her mind--most likely an effect of the Locust necklace she inherited from her grandmother. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics is a turn-based strategy spin-off of the Gears of War franchise. The game takes place 12 years before the first Gears of War. You can customize your own squad to take on threats in what was described as a more aggressive version of the classical tactics formula. And of course, as a Gears game, it will feature larger-than-life boss battles. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus puts players back in control of Artyom. Even though Artyom will be venturing above ground this time, there will still be plenty of mutated creatures to gun down and unsettling environments to explore. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: February 22, 2019
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Xbox One console exclusive Ori and the Blind Forest was a critical hit when it launched in 2015, and now developer Moon Studios is back with a sequel. Ori and the Will of the Wisps will hopefully build on the first game's ingenious platforming and compelling story, and we can't wait to see more. Platforms: Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA
The Quiet Man
The Quiet Man is a brand-new game where you play as silent protagonist who appears to be deaf. The brief trailers showed him getting into a fight and quickly dispatching two hooligans in an alleyway. As the title implies, the game's mechanics will likely involve silence and sound in some manner. According to Square Enix, more information concerning The Quiet Man will be revealed in August. Platforms: PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA
Rage 2
Rage 2 is perhaps the most unlikely sequel to come out of E3 this year, but with id Software bringing Avalanche Studios along for the ride there's plenty of reason to be excited about its potential. Avalanche has years of experience crafting large and chaotic worlds in games like Mad Max and Just Cause, with vehicle combat and special effects chief among their notable talents. Id, of course, is the studio that pioneered first-person shooting and continues to deliver hard-hitting games like 2016's Doom. It could be a match made in heaven, but we won't know until it ships sometime in 2019. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Resident Evil 2 Remake
Resident Evil 2 Remake takes the 1998 survival-horror game of the same name and remakes it from the ground up. While it faithfully recreates the game's environment and story beats, it takes liberties with the appearance and gameplay of the original. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: January 29, 2019
Sea of Solitude
Sea of Solitude is an upcoming EA Originals game about a lonely girl whose emotions manage to turn her into a monster and the world into a flooded post-apocalyptic world. She must explore this world in order to find a way to turn back into a human. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is the long-awaited new game from acclaimed studio, From Software. It appears to be expanding upon the classic Dark Souls formula by introducing stealth-action elements and more acrobatic maneuvers. Platforms: Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Early 2019
Session
Session is a brand-new skateboarding simulation game, which was kickstarted early last year. Not much else was shown about the game, but it's at least great to hear that the skateboarding game genre isn't dead. Platforms: Xbox One | Release Date: Early Access TBA 2019
Skull & Bones
Ubisoft's Skull & Bones sets sail in the Indian Ocean, setting you on a quest to become a pirate of the ages. The game will feature single- and multiplayer options and is centered around naval warfare. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Starfield
For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda is creating a new IP. We don't know much about Starfield. However, based on the game's title and brief teaser trailer, it's probably safe to say that this RPG will take place in space. Platforms: The next generation of consoles, PC (Expected) | Release Date: TBA
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order
Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order is the upcoming Star Wars game created by Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind the well-received Titanfall series. It takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope during the Jedi hunts. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC (Expected) | Release Date: Holiday 2019
Tom Clancy's The Division 2
Ubisoft Massive is at work on The Division 2, a follow-up to its open-world shooter, as it looks to build upon the foundation established in the previous game. This time around it's set in Washington D.C. and deals with the exploits of the Division attempting to reclaim the capital. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One | Release Date: March 18
Twin Mirror
Dontnod Entertainment is partnering with Bandai Namco to bring Twin Mirror, a new psychological thriller, to PC, PS4, and Xbox One in 2019. Based on the E3 2018 trailer, the story focuses on a character named Sam who wakes up one day to discover a shocking amount of blood on his clothing with no memory of the cause. As Sam attempts to piece together the events from the night before, he will explore both the real world and surreal manifestations of his own psyche. Twin Mirror looks intriguing so far, but being one big mystery, we'll have to wait until we see more of the game to get a grasp of how we ultimately fit into Sam's harrowing investigation. Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC | Release Date: TBA 2019
Wolfenstein: Youngblood
Wolfenstein: Youngblood is set in an alternate 1980s Paris and follows the events of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. It stars series protagonist BJ Blazkowicz's twin daughters, who are working together to continue the fight against the Nazis. The game can be played solo or co-op. Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch (Expected) | Release Date: TBA 2019
By Kallie Plagge on Jul 10, 2018 05:43 am
Plus Ultra!
For anime fans, there's a lot to play in 2018. The year began with Dragon Ball FighterZ, which is full of references to classic moments from Dragon Ball Z and a new story for fans to enjoy. But it's not the only anime game coming out this year; Sword Art Online, One Piece, Naruto, and more are all getting new games. Click forward to see all the games based on existing anime coming to the West in 2018. If you're curious about 2018 in general, you can check out our features on Switch exclusives, PS4 exclusives, Xbox One exclusives, and PC exclusives. There's also a wealth of exciting games coming out in 2018 that aren't necessarily exclusive to one platform or another, so be sure to check out our individual features highlighting the most anticipated PS4 games, Xbox One games, PC games, and Switch games for a broader look at the year ahead. For more on anime, be sure to check out our gallery of the biggest anime to watch in 2018. If you're looking for recommendations of shows to watch, see the best anime available on Netflix and our top 10 anime of 2017. Looking ahead to 2019, one of the biggest anime games is Arc System Works' Kill la Kill The Game: IF. That game features an original story centered around series antagonist Satsuki Kiryuin.
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth - Hacker's Memory
The latest game in the long-running Digimon series presents the mysterious backstory to the events that transpired in the first Cyber Sleuth RPG and features 320 Digimon from the animated series. Developer: Media.Vision | Release Date: January 19 | PS4, Vita
Dragon Ball FighterZ
Based on the Dragon Ball series, this 2D fighter follows a 3v3 format and includes a new story and character. Dragon Ball FighterZ is developed by Arc System Works, best known for BlazBlue and Guilty Gear. Developer: Arc System Works | Release Date: January 26 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
The Seven Deadly Sins: Knights of Britannia
The first game based on the popular anime series, The Seven Deadly Sins: Knights of Britannia tasks you with saving the Kingdom of Liones. It includes memorable fights from the series and popular characters, including Hawk, Elizabeth, and Meliodas. Developer: Natsume Atari | Release Date: February 9 | PS4
Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet
The latest game based on hit anime Sword Art Online features an original story by series creator Reki Kawahara. The action-RPG has a greater emphasis on third-person shooting mechanics than previous games. Developer: Dimps | Release Date: February 23 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Attack on Titan 2
The next Attack on Titan game mainly covers the second season of the anime and includes over 30 playable characters from both seasons. Expect lots of Titan-slaying action, 3D maneuver gear, and more. Developer: Koei Tecmo | Release Date: March 20 | Switch, PS4, Xbox One, PC
Little Witch Academia: Chamber of Time
Side-scrolling action game Little Witch Academia: Chamber of Time lets you control series protagonist Akko as she explores her magical academy with her friends. The game will also include animated cutscenes by Studio Trigger. Developer: APLUS Games | Release Date: May 15 | PS4, PC
One Piece: Grand Cruise
Explore the Thousand Sunny and interact with the Straw Hat Pirates in VR in One Piece: Grand Cruise. Release Date: May 22 | PSVR
New Gundam Breaker
Like the previous Gundam Breaker games, New Gundam Breaker will let you build and customize Gunpla kits and then use them in battle. Developer: Crafts and Meister | Release Date: June 22 | PS4, PC (delayed)
Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker
In the next Naruto game, team up as a group of four and challenge other teams online to become the best ninja around. Developer: Soleil Ltd. | Release Date: August 31 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
Black Clover: Quartet Knights
A game based on 2017's Black Clover is coming in 2018, featuring four-player "magical combat" based around different characters' specializations. Developer: Ilinix | Release Date: September 14 | PS4
Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise
Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise is developed by the team behind the Yakuza games and tells an alternate version of the anime's story. You play as Kenshiro, exploring the post-apocalyptic world (and also partaking in some fun side activities, like bartending). Developer: Ryu ga Gotoku Studio | Release Date: October 2 | PS4
My Hero: One's Justice
The smash-hit superhero show My Hero Academia is getting a video game! One's Justice is a fighting game with a manga flair. Developer: Byking | Release Date: October 26 | Switch, PS4, Xbox One, PC
One Piece: World Seeker
Like many One Piece games, World Seeker puts you in the role of Luffy and let you battle and more in an open-world environment. Developer: Ganbarion | Release Date: 2018 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 05:18 am
This Year's Exclusives.exe
PC is one of the best platforms to play games. Not only does it allow access to an immense library of games across multiple generations, but it also offers the potential to play them at their best. But if you're looking for some new games, there's an abundance of great-looking ones coming exclusively to PC this year alone. On consumer platforms like Steam and GOG, there are hundreds of exclusive PC games released every day. Since rounding them up would prove unwieldy, we've narrowed the field down to this list of some of the most high-profile exclusives. Below you can get a glance at some of the biggest PC exclusives releasing in 2018. We'll be updating this list throughout the year as more games get announced, as well as tinker our placeholder entries with confirmed release dates and additional information when new announcements are made. PC Exclusive Games Of 2018 If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, Switch exclusives, and Xbox One exclusives. In the meantime, which PC games are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Rust
Facepunch Studios' Rust is a multiplayer survival game where players are tasked with satiating their in-game needs, such as hunger, thirst, and warmth, with items and materials that can be scavenged from the expansive world or stolen from other players. We gave the game a 3/10. Read our Rust review. Developer: Facepunch Studios | Release Date: February 8
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II: Kai
Although this remaster is available for PS4 in Japan, the rest of the world can only play The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II: Kai on PC. Like the original game, Trails of Cold Steel II is a traditional JRPG with turn-based battles. Unlike the original, this sequel is focused on traveling across a fantastical world as opposed to attending a magical combat school. Developer: Nihon Falcom | Release Date: February 14
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition is a remaster of the iconic history-based real-time strategy game from 1997. We gave the game a 6/10. Read our Age of Empires: Definitive Edition review. Developer: Forgotten Empires | Release Date: February 20
Hunt: Showdown
Hunt: Showdown is a competitive first-person PvP bounty hunting game with heavy PvE elements. It takes the thrill that comes with survival games and combines it with the action heavy combat of a match-based shooter. Watch a trailer. Developer: Crytek | Release Date: February 22 (Early Access), Winter 2018 (Official Release)
Chuchel
Chuchel is a puzzle game developed by Jaromir Plachy & Amanita Design, the creators of Botanicula, Machinarium, and the Samorost games. Developer: Amanita Design | Release Date: March 7
Long Gone Days
Long Gone Days is a 2D RPG that follows the adventures of Rourke, a soldier who decides to abandon his post, which leads him on a journey where he'll collaborate with allies from different parts of the world to overcome the peril of an inescapable war. While a traditional RPG at its core, the game also features elements from visual novels, puzzlers, and shooters. Developer: BURA | Release Date: March 28 (Early Access)
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is the successor to the critically acclaimed 2015 original. It features an expansive multiclassing system, which allows players to build unique characters that tie both into personal playstyles and stories. It also gives you access to a ship that you can use to sail across the game's world. You'll need to continually upgrade it to better survive perilous encounters. We gave the game an 8/10. Check out our Pillars of Eternity II review. Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Release Date: April 3
Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia
Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia is the latest spin-off game in the popular Total War franchise. In contrast to the mainline games, Thrones of Britannia is a turn-based strategy game that takes place in the aftermath of the Viking invasion of Britain. We gave the game an 8/10. Read our Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia review. Developer: Creative Assembly | Release Date: April 19
Frontpunk
Frostpunk puts players in charge of a city that's trying to survive a volcanic winter. This city-building survival game comes with three different scenarios. Each has its own story and will test the morals and decision making skills of the player in different ways. We gave the game a 9/10. Read our Frostpunk review. Developer: 11 bit studios | Release Date: April 24
BattleTech
BattleTech is a turn-based strategy game based in the universe of the popular tabletop and science-fiction franchise of the same name. You assume the role of a mercenary commander leading a team of powerful giant robots called battlemechs. We gave the game a 9/10. Read our Battletech review. Developer: Harebrained Schemes | Release Date: April 24
Dauntless
Dauntless is a free-to-play action-RPG that plays similarly to Capcom's popular Monster Hunter series. It takes place in a world where a cataclysmic event has torn the world apart, releasing monster-like Behemoths that prey on the surviving humans. You play as a Slayer, a special warrior tasked with taking down the Behemoths. Watch a trailer. Developer: Phoenix Labs | Release Date: May 24 (Open Beta)
Underworld Ascendant
Underworld Ascendant is an action-RPG made by developers that worked on the Ultima Underworld series. Like those games, it focuses on player choice while taking you on a journey across a fantasy realm packed with danger and intrigue. Watch a trailer. Developer: Otherside Entertainment | Release Date: September 2018
MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries
MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries is the first numbered mainline entry in the once popular mech-sim series to be released in nearly 16 years. In keeping with MechWarrior tradition, you customize and pilot your own personal BattleMech across a new conflict set within the universe of the popular BattleTech franchise. Watch a trailer. Developer: Piranha Games | Release Date: Winter 2018
Anno 1800
Anno 1800 is the latest entry in the long-running real-time strategy Anno series. It takes the series back to the past, allowing you to build and manage metropolises during the industrial revolution. Watch a trailer. Developer: Ubisoft Blue Byte | Release Date: Winter 2018
Griftlands
Griftlands is the latest game by developer Klei Entertainment, the studio behind Don't Starve and Mark of the Ninja. Unlike its previous efforts, Griftlands is an action-RPG that emphasizes player choice and charting your own journey through an in-depth negotiation system. Watch a trailer. Developer: Klei Entertainment | Release Date: TBA 2018
Aquanox: Deep Descent
Aquanox: Deep Descent is a first-person shooter where you control a submarine through undersea caverns in the dystopian world of Aqua. Developer: Digital Arrow | Release Date: TBA 2018
Quake Champions
Quake Champions revives the classic Quake style of arena shooter gameplay but with a new character/class system. While not a major factor, these characters do feature their own distinct movement speeds, health pools, and a special ability. Watch a trailer. Developer: id Software | Release Date: TBA 2018
Xenonauts 2
Xenonauts 2 is a strategy game where you command a multinational organization defending Cold War-era Earth from an alien invasion. Developer: Goldhawk Interactive | Release Date: TBA 2018
Artifact
Valve's DOTA 2 card game, Artifact, incorporates most of the mechanics of MOBA-based digital collective card games like Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft. The game differs from most traditional card games by incorporating three "lanes" for possible attack. Watch some gameplay. Developer: Valve | Release Date: TBA 2018
Pathfinder: Kingmaker
An isometric RPG, Pathfinder: Kingmaker is a spinoff to the original Pathfinder franchise. The game takes place in the Stolen Lands, which is a part of Golarion, the default setting of 2009's Pathfinder. Watch a trailer. Developer: Owlcat Games | Release Date: TBA 2018
The Bard's Tale IV: Barrows Deep
The Bard's Tale IV: Barrows Deep is a party-based dungeon crawler with traditional RPG elements. Watch a trailer. Developer: inXile Entertainment | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Jordan Ramée on Jul 10, 2018 05:16 am
Nintendo's Newest
In 2017, Nintendo soared back into the limelight with the Switch--the fastest selling console in US history. Incredible exclusives like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey proved Nintendo still remembered the strengths of its franchises and the importance of taking risks. For an overview of all the Switch games we reviewed last year, head over to our Switch review page. Already, Nintendo is using 2018 to build upon the company's successes and produce more fantastic-looking follow-ups to fan-favorite franchises, like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Kirby Star Allies. A number of new IPs, like Octopath Traveler, round out Switch's library of exclusives for 2018 library. You won't find these titles anywhere else. There are plenty of exciting exclusives for Switch this year. Below is a full list of the biggest ones, and for more information on each game, click through to the slides ahead to find out what each game is and its release date. Nintendo Switch Console Exclusive Games In 2018We've compiled every one we know of so far here, and will continue to update this gallery with new games as they get announced. Be sure to check back often as we update this gallery with more exclusives. And if you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, Xbox One exclusives, and PC exclusives. In the meantime, which exclusives are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below.
Bayonetta and Bayonetta 2
When Nintendo revealed Bayonetta 3 at The Game Awards, the company also confirmed a popular rumor: Bayonetta 2 and the original Bayonetta were on their way to Switch. The sequel headlines the physical packaging of the game, but every copy of Bayonetta 2 includes a download code for the original. We gave the original Bayonetta an 8/10. Check out our Bayonetta review. We loved the follow-up even more, giving it a perfect 10/10. Check out our Bayonetta 2 review. Developer: PlatinumGames | Release Date: February 16
Kirby Star Allies
Kirby made his debut on Switch in Kirby Star Allies. This title provides a multiplayer twist on traditional Kirby action, allowing four players to party up and tackle platforming stages and boss battles together. Like Kirby, his allies use powers absorbed from lesser enemies. We gave the game an 8/10. Check out our Kirby Star Allies review. Developer: HAL Laboratory | Release Date: March 16
Nintendo Labo
Nintendo Labo is a series of kits that include cardboard cut-outs and other materials that are assembled in combination with the Switch and its Joy-Cons to be played with special game software and vice versa. The series' first two kits--the Variety Kit and the Robot Kit--released in April. We gave the Nintendo Labo and its first two kits a 7/10. Check out our Nintendo Labo review. Developer: Nintendo | Release Date: April 20
Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze
Continuing the tradition of updated Wii U games that get Switch ports like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Pokken Tournament DX, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze launched on Switch in May. The game adds a new playable character, Funky Kong, who introduces his own unique twist on the original's platforming gameplay. We gave the game a 9/10. Read our Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze review. Developer: Retro Studios, Monster Games | Release Date: May 4
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition
The revamped version of Hyrule Warriors comes to Switch with all of the maps, missions, characters, and DLC from both the original Wii U release and the expanded 3DS version. Even Yuga and Ravio from A Link Between Worlds joined this Dynasty Warriors-style game. Both Link and Zelda get new Breath of the Wild-themed costumes as well. We gave the game an 8/10. Check out our Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition review. Developer: Omega Force | Release Date: May 18
Runner3
The Bit.Trip games from developer Choice Provisions rank among some of the best throwback experiences of the past decade. Nintendo Switch owners have exclusive access to the series' newest game, Runner3, which continues the tradition of linking rhythmic timing and platforming, while also promising plenty of new tricks to stump returning players. We gave the game a 7/10. Read our Runner3 review. Developer: Choice Provisions | Release Date: May 22
Pokemon Quest
The original 151 Pokedex returns in Pokemon Quest, a free-to-play spin-off to Nintendo's popular pocket monster franchise. The game differentiates itself with its blocky art-style. Gameplay for Quest is separated into four parts: catching Pokemon, training your team, managing your base camp, and adventuring into the unknown in story missions. Watch some gameplay. Developer: Game Freak | Release Date: May 30
Mario Tennis Aces
Mario Tennis Aces from developer Camelot--the team behind the GBA game Golden Sun as well as numerous other Mario sports titles--launched on Switch this past spring. Mario's newest run at tennis includes a challenging story, three tournaments, and new special abilities. Our review of the game is still in progress, but we're currently giving it an 8/10. Check out our Mario Tennis Aces review. Developer: Camelot | Release Date: June 22
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
The incredibly adorable puzzler, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is finally coming to Switch. It includes an added Super Mario Odyssey-themed level modeled after that game's New Donk City location. You can also play with a friend--each using one joy-con--where one controls Toad and the other can shoot turnips to attack enemies. We gave the Wii U version of the game an 8/10. Check out our Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker review. Developer: Nintendo | Release Date: July 13
Octopath Traveler
Square Enix and developer Acquire are in the home stretch of development on Octopath Traveler, a retro RPG that mixes 2D and 3D graphics in an effort to bridge the gap between 16-bit and HD. A second demo for the game is currently available if you can't quite wait until July to play. We got an extended look at Octopath Traveller's gameplay during a live E3 2018 demo. Developer: Square Enix, Acquire | Release Date: July 13
Code Of Princess EX
Originally for 3DS, Code of Princess is coming to Nintendo Switch in July. This hack and slash game features a few RPG elements you can explore with its cast of over 50 playable characters. There are two multiplayer modes as well: co-op missions and a Versus mode. Back in 2012, we gave the 3DS version of the game a 7/10. Read our Code of Princess review. Developer: Studio Saizensen | Release Date: July 31
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Monster Hunter Generations new HD port is already available on Switch in Japan, and it comes to the rest of the world later this year. With no sign of Monster Hunter: World coming to Switch, Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate will have to satisfy your need for a new hunting experience on the go. We gave the original game a 7/10. Read our Monster Hunter Generations review. Developer: Capcom | Release Date: August 28
Super Mario Party
Super Mario Party marks the 11th time Mario and his friends have gotten together to beat each other up, steal from one another, and willingly participate in a diverse assortment of tiny death traps. Or as they like to call it: a party. Like the Mario Party titles that released for Wii and Wii U, Super Mario Party will feature mini games and challenges that utilize both traditional button controls and motion controls. Developer: Nd Cube | Release Date: October 5
Pokemon: Let's Go, Pikachu! / Let's Go, Eevee!
Pokemon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Pokemon: Let's Go, Eevee! are the first Pokemon RPGs to come to Switch. The two titles take gameplay inspiration from Pokemon Yellow and Pokemon GO. Choose whether you want to be followed by an adorable Pikachu or lovable Eevee and then start your quest to catch 'em all! Developer: Game Freak | Release Date: November 16
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. is finally coming to Nintendo Switch, and you won't have to wait all that long for it: it's coming this holiday season. Every fighter from every previous Smash Bros. game is coming to duke it out in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and a few newcomers like Daisy, Ridley, and Inkling are joining them. Watch Ridley's creepy reveal trailer. Developer: Nintendo | Release Date: December 7
Light Fingers
Light Fingers is a turn-based multiplayer board game where your goal is to gather loot and progress across the board, all while your opponents play cards and manipulate mechanical obstacles in an effort to trip you up. The game is coming to Switch sometime this year. Developer: Numizmatic | Release Date: TBA 2018
Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes
The third game in the No More Heroes series from infamous developer, Goichi "SUDA 51" Suda, is scheduled to land on Switch later this year. Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes is a revenge tale against frontman Travis, who finds himself confronted by Badman, father of Travis' first assassination target, Bad Girl. Before they get into a scuffle, both characters are drawn into a video game system. From within, they will have to confront a handful of fictional video games, supposedly inspired by real-world hits like Hotline Miami. Check out some gameplay. Developer: Grasshopper Manufacture | Release Date: TBA 2018
Dragon Marked For Death
The latest game from the team behind Mega Man Zero, Mega Man 9, Mega Man 10, and Azure Striker Gunvolt is coming exclusively to Switch this year. Dragon Marked for Death looks like another action-packed 2D side-scroller with intricate sprites, but Inti Creates is experimenting by adding in four-player local co-op and progression systems that give the game an action-RPG feel. Developer: Inti Creates | Release Date: TBA 2018
The World Ends With You - Final Remix
The hi-res version of Square Enix's The World Ends with You is coming to Switch, along with a "sizable" new story scenario. This anime-inspired game is set in modern day Tokyo and created by the same team behind Kingdom Hearts III. The Final Remix version was announced during January's Nintendo Direct Mini, and is due sometime this year. When we reviewed the original game on DS, we gave it a 9/10. Read our The World Ends with You review. Developer: Square Enix | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 05:15 am
A Growing Library Of Exclusives
In 2017, Microsoft managed to enhance its latest and a few pre-existing games with upgraded visuals thanks to the release of Xbox One X. However, the publisher's roster of exclusives last year was small. There were a few noticeable standouts, like Everspace and Cuphead, but Microsoft just couldn't compete against Sony and Nintendo's larger libraries. Fortunately, Microsoft kicked off this year with a solid array of exclusive triple-A and independent games. We expected to see titles like Sea of Thieves and State of Decay 2, but Microsoft managed to surprise us with sequels to fan favorite franchises, like Forza Horizon 4, and phenomenal new experiences, like Full Metal Furies. And that's only the beginning. Microsoft's E3 2018 press conference revealed the company has plenty of exclusives on the way. With so many great-looking games coming to the console that you won't find anywhere else, we've compiled a list of all the exclusive games coming to Xbox One in the coming months. Xbox One Console Exclusive Games In 2018Make sure to check back often, as we'll continue to update our entries with specific dates and info when new announcements are made. If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, PC exclusives, and Switch exclusives. It's worth noting that there are a few games in this feature that are also on PC. Given Microsoft's Play Anywhere program and the company's hand in both console and PC gaming, these games have been included. But which Xbox One games are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Full Metal Furies
This action adventure places an emphasis on teamwork. You and three friends each take control of one of four different heroes and adventure into a world filled with deadly enemies, vicious traps, and mind-boggling puzzles. You might want to grab a fifth person to keep track of all the clues and puzzles with pen and paper. For Full Metal Furies, you'll need it. Trust us. Developer: Cellar Door Games | Release Date: January 17
Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic is a first-person cooperative sci-fi shooter where up to four players explore procedurally generated, destructible environments to complete in a variety of missions. As a team of Dwarven space miners, you work together to blow up cave walls and mow down enemies. Watch the trailer. Developer: Ghost Ship Games | Release Date: February 28 (Early Access)
Pit People
Pit People is an action-RPG developed by indie game developer The Behemoth. It released in Early Access last year, and officially launched this past March. The game continues the wacky humor of The Behemoth's previous titles and unites Alien Hominid, Castle Crashers, and BattleBlock Theater into one shared universe. We gave the game a 7/10. Read our Pit People review. Developer: The Behemoth | Release Date: March 2
Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves is the first original, non-Kinect game by iconic developer Rare in years. It's a first-person multiplayer action-adventure game that allows you to live out the life of a pirate with your friends. You work together to navigate the sea by ship while hunting down treasure and fending off competing players. We gave the game a 6/10. Check out our Sea of Thieves review. Developer: Rare | Release Date: March 20
State of Decay 2
State of Decay 2 is a multiplayer zombie survival game featuring an open-world environment and co-op gameplay with up to three other players. Unlike the original, the game allows you to control anyone in your crew of survivors, who each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. We gave the game a 5/10. Check out our State of Decay 2 review. Developer: Undead Labs | Release Date: May 22
Forza Horizon 4
Forza's popular spin-off returns for another installment in Forza Horizon 4. The open world racing game is doubling down on the weather effects this time around and implementing drastic changes to each track depending on whether the race occurs in the spring, summer, fall, or winter. The game will feature 450 licensed cars. Watch the trailer. Developer: Playground Games | Release Date: September 28 (Ultimate Edition), October 2 (Deluxe and Standard Editions)
Black Desert Online
The incredibly popular PC MMORPG Black Desert Online is making its way onto Xbox One this year as a timed-exclusive. Thanks to the power of the Xbox One X, the upcoming console port can be played in 4K. We gave the original PC version of the game a 7/10. Reach our Black Desert Online review. Developer: Pearl Abyss | Release Date: TBA 2018
Ashen
Ashen is an action-RPG where you play a wanderer in search of a place to settle. However, the game's hostile world is filled with malicious scavengers and deadly creatures who ensure you won't stay in one place for long. Ashen challenges you to explore, create settlements, and seek out other adventurers to improve your chances of survival. Watch the trailer. Developer: Aurora44 | Release Date: TBA 2018
Darwin Project
Darwin Project is a free-to-play third-person competitive battle royale with an emphasis on survival. In order to win, you must endure extreme weather conditions, while tracking opponents and setting up traps. Developer: Scavenger Studio | Release Date: TBA 2018
The Last Night
The Last Night is a 2.5D cinematic platformer where you play as Charlie, a lower-class citizen in a society where computers and machinery have taken over menial work. You explore the city, talk with its various inhabitants, and discover its secrets. Watch the trailer. Developer: Odd Tales | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 05:02 am
Going Battle Royale
With the massive success of PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds and Fortnite, battle royale games are quickly evolving, moving past the genre's humble beginnings as mods for large-scale survival games, like Minecraft and ARMA 2, and into fresh new territory. More and more new games in the genre are getting released every week; this year alone is packed with a slew of new battle royale games that aim to push the genre further by expanding its foundational elements and mechanics. To ensure you're kept up to date on all the latest battle royale games, we've compiled 19 of the biggest battle royale games releasing in 2018. Below you can find a full list releasing this year. In addition, you find out more details on each game in the feature ahead by clicking through to their game pages. Battle Royale Games Of 2018While there's plenty of battle royale games out there, we've decidedly narrowed it down in our list above to the ones most worth looking into this year. Many of the latest battle royale games are expanding upon it by throwing new mechanics into the mix. Some games add in spectator elements and dynamic environmental effects, while others are taking the experience to VR. It's exciting to see how some developers are pushing the genre to entirely new directions. There are also battle royale games this year are opting for a more traditional approach. Games like Europa and Mavericks: Proving Grounds are sticking to the last person standing approach but across different scales and with additional mechanics, like dynamic environmental effects and higher player counts. These games offer veteran players fascinating situations to test their skills. Even the biggest gaming franchises are incorporating battle royale into its repertoire. The upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 and Battlefield 5 have battle royale-like modes. We can only imagine what other popular franchises plan to introduce the mode at E3 2018. Regardless of what you prefer, it's safe to say that there is likely a new battle royale game for you. But which one are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below. And be sure to check back often as we update this feature with even more new battle royale games as they get announced.
The Culling 2
The Culling 2 approaches the battle royale formula with real-world weapon ballistics, a more complex melee combat system, and customizable perks. It supports up to 50 players. Release Date: Available July 10
Battlefield 5 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
During EA's E3 2018 press conference, Battlefield V developer DICE confirmed that a battle royale mode will be available in the game at some point. DICE creative director Lars Gustavsson stated that games like Fortnite and PUBG are popular among the developer's employees. The idea to add a battle royale mode to Battlefield V came from conversations DICE developers were having about the game inside the studio as opposed to being a directive that EA handed down to the studio, he suggested. Release Date: TBA (Mode expected to release sometime after October 11 launch)
Fear the Wolves | PC, PS4, Xbox One
Fear the Wolves is a battle royale game set in an apocalyptic Chernobyl-like wasteland. It brings an interesting twist to the formula by introducing unpredictable weather cycles. In addition, there are radioactive zones that players can only explore with the proper gear. Release Date: PC Early Access TBA 2018 (Console version expected to launch in 2019)
Rapture Rejects | PC
Rapture Rejects is an upcoming battle royale game set in the popular Cyanide & Happiness cartoon universe. Unlike its contemporaries, the game sets players in a hellish otherworld where God has abandoned humanity, and the only option left is to kill until only one person is left standing. Release Date: TBA 2018
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 | PS4, Xbox One, PC
The upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is going to feature a battle royale mode. Dubbed Blackout, the new mode pits players against each other in a fight to be the last one standing. Where it differs from other battle royale games, however, is that it draws heavily on previous Black Ops titles. Developer Treyarch says it wanted to create a battle royale mode "the Black Ops way," and to that end, it has incorporated elements from the entire series into the mode. Release Date: October 12
Battlerite Royale | PC
Battlerite Royale is an upcoming mode for the team-based arena brawler where 20 players fight on a map 30 times larger than the game's standard arena mode map. You can play solo or as a pair, with 27 distinct heroes to choose from. The rules are standard fair as a battle royale game: drop in, gather supplies, kill people, and come out as the last person alive. Platforms: PC | Release Date: Summer 2018 (Standard Game is Available Now)
Maelstorm | PC
Maelstorm offers an interesting spin on the battle royale genre. Rather than take on the format of a first-person or third-person shooter, the game focuses on naval combat in a fantasy setting. You're pitted against 15 other players in a a battle to be the last "ship" standing. While you fight off other players and NPC ships, there are also sea monsters to worry about that'll attempt to sink you. And if the game's premise isn't enough to pull you in, it also offers progression and loot systems to keep you invested in and outside of battle. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Egress
Egress is an RPG battle royale game with a Soulsborne-like combat system. It's set in an alternate universe that combines visuals elements from Victorian-era architecture, Lovecraftian mythology, and Retrowave. Release Date: TBA 2018
H1Z1 | PC (PS4 and Xbox One Versions Coming Soon)
Formerly known as H1Z1: King of the Kill, H1Z1 is the battle royale version of the zombie-survival sandbox game, Just Survive. It pits 150 players against each other in a last-man-standing deathmatch; players can choose to play solo, with a partner, or in groups of five. In addition to the game's standard battle royale mode, H1Z1 features a mode called Auto Royale, where four players drive a car into battle, collecting power-ups in order to emerge the last team driving. Platforms: PC | Release Date: Available Now
Proxima Royale
Proxima Royale is a sci-fi-themed battle royale where up to 60 players duke it out in a last "robot" standing conflict on an alien planet. The game is in early access, having had a few closed alphas over the past month or so. Release Date: TBA
SOS | PC
SOS offers something unique: it requires a microphone, and your social skills and sense of showmanship will be put to the test. Each player has to present themselves in an interesting way to stand out and earn the favor of a live audience. Each game is broadcast live online via the social gaming platform Hero, with spectators voting on possible in-game events like supply drops or bombing runs. The main goal is to find one of four relics spread across the map, and then signal for extraction and make it onto a helicopter. This sounds simple on paper, but 15 other players are also striving to accomplish the same goal, and with only a few seats on the helicopter, you're going to need to be clever and ruthless if you want to survive. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Realm Royale | PC, PS4, Xbox One
Realm Royale is a 100-player battle royale spin-off of Paladins: Champions of the Realm. It takes on qualities similar to other battle royale games, but attempts to redefine them by introducing mechanics from hero shooters, with myriad playable characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities. In addition, it emphasizes cooperative play, as it's designed to be played primarily in four-person squads. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
The Darwin Project | PC, Xbox One
The Darwin Project is a third-person competitive multiplayer battle royale game with more of an emphasis on survival than its competitors. In order to win, you must endure extreme weather conditions, while tracking opponents and setting up traps in order to be the last one left alive. It's most noteworthy quality is that it incorporates reality TV show elements into its gameplay, like spectator interaction and a show director who controls varying aspects of the arena. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access and Xbox One Game Preview program
Mavericks: Proving Grounds | PC
Mavericks: Proving Grounds is an first-person battle royale game where up to 400 players do battle in a highly dynamic environment. For example, you can set fire to a map, tactically spreading it to others parts of the map to either damage other players or cut them off. In addition, the game promises more intelligent mission systems, social hubs, and a player-driven narrative that informs your experiences playing the game. Release Date: TBA 2018 (Beta opens Summer 2018)
Islands of Nyne | PC
Islands of Nyne is a sci-fi-themed first-person battle royale game that's more skill-driven than its competitors. Based on how well you play, you'll earn special armor sets and weapon skins for your character. There's also a player betting system, which allows you to use in-game credits to place bets on individual players or teams during a match to win more equipment or skins. Release Date: TBA 2018 (Currently in Closed Alpha, which you can get into by pre-ordering the game)
Dying Light: Bad Blood | PC, PS4, Xbox One
Dying Light: Bad Blood is a standalone battle royale-esque expansion of the critically acclaimed Dying Light. It seems an almost unexpected release, but apparently it was made by developer Techland due to numerous fan requests. In Bad Blood, six players are dropped into random locations around the map in a race to acquire enough samples from several powerful infected zombies. As you take down these special zombies, you'll collect samples and potentially level up your character--boosting their health, agility, and attack power. The first one to acquire all the samples and escape in the evac chopper wins. Release Date: TBA 2018 (a Global Playtest is schedule for sometime this year, which you can sign up for via the Dying Light website)
Europa | PC
Europa is Chinese publisher Tencent's contribution to the battle royale genre. Unlike its competitors, the game will feature real-time weather, underwater exploration, environmental kills, and destructible cover. Whether Europa releases anywhere besides China remains to be seen. Release Date: TBA 2018 in China only
Survival Games: Battle Royale | PC
Survival Games: Battle Royale retains the genre's tried and true premise, but provides some twists of its own. Maps are procedurally generated and you must keep track of your stats and hunger as you fight to be the last one standing. In addition, the game sports a map editor that allows you design your own custom battle royale arenas. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Stand Out: VR Battle Royale | PC (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
Playing a battle royale game in VR sounds like a huge challenge, but developer raptor lab is looking to make it happen with Standout: Battle Royale VR. In order to survive a match, you'll literally have to crouch down to avoid enemy and lean in and out of cover to get a clear line of sight on opponents; you can even reach out and snatch a magazine from a player's hands. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Fractured Lands | PC
Fractured Lands sets the 100-player battle royale formula in a Mad Max-inspired post-apocalyptic wasteland. The game features classic genre mechanics, like resource management and tactical first-person shooting. However, it also sports an emphasis on car combat and vehicle customization. Release Date: Available Summer 2018 via Steam Early Access (Available now in Closed Beta)
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 04:44 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. Which PS4 games do you love the most? Let us know in the comments below.
The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit -- 8/10
"Life is Strange gained a huge cult following, and whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, Captain Spirit captures a lot of the original game's appeal. Regardless of how you classify The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit--whether it's a standalone adventure, a demo, or a prologue--it's a beautiful game, and one that leaves you all the more excited about Life is Strange 2." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor
Onrush -- 9/10
"When it comes to crumpling metal and high speed thrills, not all of Onrush's game modes are on equal footing in terms of consistent excitement. Yet its foundations are so strong, and so unique, that it's easy to lose hours upon hours barreling around these disparate tracks. The question of longevity will, of course, depend on post-release support, with new classes, game modes, and tracks potentially on the horizon. Considering you need 12 players to fill a full room, it would be a shame if Onrush doesn't find the kind of audience that will give it the lifespan it deserves. Part of this will depend on how Codemasters iterates on the game from here on out, but they've shown a proficiency in knowing how arcade racing games click, and Onrush is such a bold, refreshing twist on the genre that there should be little hesitation in putting your faith in them to succeed." -- Richard Wakeling
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
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
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
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
Unravel Two -- 8/10
"With its charming yarnlings and a newfound style of platforming, Unravel Two remains welcoming even at its most foreboding. Sure, a forest fire breaks out in one of the latter stages, but even then, the race to keep ahead of the blaze is fun and frantic instead of stressful. In almost every moment you're given ample time and space to breathe and take in the stunning photorealistic world from the viewpoint of the tiniest creatures. It's a game with boisterous birds, chases through meadows, and most importantly a cheerful partnership with a companion who's always got your back. With only six chapters that run roughly 30 minutes apiece, Unravel Two doesn't last long, but it's a game where the time you have is meaningful, memorable, and downright pleasant from beginning to end." -- Justin Clark
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
The Crew 2 -- 8/10
"I'm annoyed by the game's lack of public interaction and meaningless gear system, but I'll fondly recall both the tension of flinging sprint boats back and forth through the narrow, artificial canals of The Venetian in Las Vegas, and the easygoing satisfaction of an hour-long hypercar race from New York to San Francisco, where I listened to a podcast and enjoyed the rolling scenery. Despite its shortcomings, The Crew 2 still displays admirable strengths, which lie in its player-friendly features, freedom of movement, and its willingness to bend the rules in order to make things exciting and varied for an accessible, American-themed thrillride." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Senior Editor and Video Producer
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 04:38 am
Switch Games That You Need To Play
The release of the Nintendo Switch marked the beginning of a new generation for Nintendo. After the lukewarm reception of the Wii U, many were beginning to wonder if the company would be able to survive in today's console market. However, it defied all expectations with its hybrid console/handheld console. Alongside the Switch's release was the universally praised The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, giving it the killer app 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 amazing games coming, from huge first-party games like Mario and Splatoon 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 detailing all the Wii U games we ported to Switch, 13 things we want to see from the console. The Switch already has hundreds of games, so many that some are bound to fly under our radar. The games covered here are only a small handful of the experiences out there. Which games do you think are some of the Switch's finest? Let us know in the comments below.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus -- 8/10
"As long as you're able to play the entire game in docked mode, The New Colossus is the same fantastic game it is on other platforms. It runs well and, despite some minor visual compromises, it still looks pretty good. Handheld mode is unfortunately far less optimized, and the Joy-Cons simply don't feel as good to use as the Pro Controller. If Switch is your only way to play it, The New Colossus is absolutely worth your time--just not on the go." [Read the full review] -- Kallie Plagge, Associate Editor
West of Loathing -- 8/10
"There are a few minor issues--inventory management on Switch becomes cumbersome as you collect an increasing amount of things, fights with a lot of enemies can obscure some pertinent information, and the stakes sometimes feel a little too low to be completely motivating. But West of Loathing's focus on maintaining a flexible, open-ended nature and lighthearted, humorous feel keeps you engaged in what feels like an imaginative pen-and-paper Dungeons and Dragons campaign, led by a game master whose only goal is to make sure you're laughing and having a fun time. West of Loathing's visuals are monochromatic, but there's enjoyable comedy painted between every line, a pitch-perfect Spaghetti Western soundtrack, and a full spectrum of role-playing possibilities to choose from that make it a consistently enjoyable madcap cowboy jaunt." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Video Producer
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
Lumines Remastered -- 8/10
"Lumines is the kind of game that temporarily rewires your brain, splicing together its ability to recognize visual patterns and audible rhythms simultaneously and forcing you to do the hard but delightful work of putting that ability to use. Having that experience so lovingly presented--and on the Switch, having Lumines handheld again for the first time in six years--is an occasion worth celebrating." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark
By Matt Espineli on Jul 10, 2018 04:31 am
The First Half's Finest
The first half of 2018 has delivered a wealth of amazing games well worth your time. Heck, the year is already shaping up to be similar to last in terms of quality--if not better. Big-budget games, like Dragon Ball FighterZ, God of War, and Far Cry 5 floored us with their attention to detail and complex mechanics. On the other hand, smaller indie experiences continued to turn our heads; Celeste and Iconoclasts proved to be standout games early standouts this year, but a multitude of other unique experiences have released since then, like Yoku's Island Express and Minit. Around this time of year in 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Nier: Automata, Persona 5, Horizon: Zero Dawn, and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard were some of the most fantastic experiences. However, this year seems to be meeting the high standard set by those games, and in a wide variety of genres. With so many games coming out every month, it can be tough keeping track of the best ones. To ensure you're aware of this year's finest, we've gathered them all here for your convenience. Ahead are games exemplary enough to be considered some of the best of this year so far. By the end of the year, a number of these could become candidates for 2018's Game of the Year awards. Which games do you think will be good enough to be included in our Game of the Year awards? Let us know in the comments below. There's always games that fly under our radar, so we're eager to know what you think is the finest of this year so far.
The Red Strings Club -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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
Iconoclasts -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Vita, PC)
"When Iconoclasts' end credits begin to roll, it's bittersweet to see the journey come to a close. After solving every puzzle and witnessing the finale of its poignant narrative, you can't help but reflect on the growth of its characters and your impact onto the world. The game will shock and surprise you with how gripping its story is, and it's likely to do so again in subsequent playthroughs of New Game+ with your expanded knowledge of character histories and events. Iconoclasts may be a callback to the style and mechanics of old-school games, but it's also a sincere and compelling adventure that anyone with respect for fantastic storytelling and 2D-action can enjoy." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor
The Inpatient -- 8/10 (Platforms: PSVR)
"The Inpatient doesn't just do right by Until Dawn, but stands right alongside it as one of the strongest horror experiences on PlayStation 4. It's a game far less concerned with pushing you towards what's lurking down every corridor than feeding you the worst ideas of what could be." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark
Celeste -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
"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
Monster Hunter World -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One)
"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
Subnautica -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Subnautica's story, scares, and beautifully rendered underwater setting make it one of the most fascinating survival games around. You will always have to grind away to a certain extent to gather necessary resources, but the overall experience is both accessible and refined. Subnautica may not make you eager to get back to the beach this summer, but right now there is no better virtual way to experience the beauty, and the terror, of the deep blue sea." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd
Shadow of the Colossus -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"Shadow of the Colossus is a tremendous journey, and one well worth taking and retaking. The visual overhaul is stunning, thoroughly enhancing every facet of Wander and Agro's excellent adventure. Galloping through the tranquil world is always breathtaking; felling a monumental colossus is always humbling. Shadow of the Colossus is a beautiful reconstruction of an already exceptional title. It continues to be a modern classic and is an extraordinary game that everyone must experience." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer
Dragon Ball FighterZ (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"FighterZ is complex and distinct enough to be enjoyed by fighting game competitors, but there's no question that it's been designed to tap into the hearts of Dragon Ball's most dedicated fans, and no doubt those same qualities will win people over who've never given the series a chance. Where past games attempted to get there through huge character rosters and deliberately predictable trips down memory lane, FighterZ has bottled the essence of what makes the series' characters, animation, and sense of humor so beloved and reconfigured it into something new: a Dragon Ball fighting game that can go toe-to-toe with the best of the genre." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
EA Sports UFC 3 -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One)
"EA Sports UFC 3 is a tense, exciting, and dynamic recreation of the stand and bang aspect of mixed martial arts. There's a fluidity to the way it moves, and a satisfying feel and unpredictability to the way fights can unfold that demands your engagement. The grappling still needs plenty of work, and one would hope this is something EA Canada addresses in the next iteration; yet these shortcomings become easier to overlook because of the accomplishment of its redefined striking. When it comes to the art of combat, few sports titles do it better." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling
Radiant Historia Perfect Chronology -- 8/10 (Platforms: 3DS)
"With all the time juggling, the brain-teasing mechanic of the White Chronicle doesn't overshadow Radiant Historia Perfect Chronology's story. Its politically charged tale complements Stocke's personal journey as he follows his orders and makes sense of his powers. The White Chronicles' close connection to the plot only makes temporal manipulation all the more engrossing, regardless if you're working your way to the game's best conclusion or hitting every node in the timeline. This feature maintains its grip for much of the game's 60-hour journey in spite of its combat shortcomings. Had this been a straight port of the DS version, it would still warrant the attention of RPG enthusiasts who missed Radiant Historia the first time around. With its upgrades and considerable bonuses--particularly the Sub-History--even those who think they got their fill by beating the original game should check out this definitive edition." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion
Kingdom Come: Deliverance -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Even with these issues in mind, anyone who can appreciate the down-and-dirty nature of history should play Kingdom Come: Deliverance. It's an impressive and unflinching look at the medieval era that transports you inside the compelling story of a real person caught in the middle of a civil war. As such, this is one of those rare, memorable games that stays with you long after you stop playing. While quirks and bugs can certainly be frustrating, none of these issues interfere much with the unique and captivating nature of the overall experience." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd
Moss -- 8/10 (Platforms: PSVR)
"It's a testament to just how well Moss understands PlayStation VR and works with the device instead of trying to bend it to a will it was never designed for. Moss wouldn't feel right without it at all, and its many strengths are married to the interactions that only full immersion can manufacture. Unsurprisingly, then, Moss is easily one of PlayStation VR's best titles to date, even if it's a little too eager to get you in and out of its world." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Barbosa
Into The Breach -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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, Editor and Senior Producer
Kirby: Star Allies -- 8/10 (Platforms: Switch)
"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
Surviving Mars -- 8/10 (Platforms: Xbox One, PC)
"Surviving Mars, above else, is about hope. So many strategy games hold to their gameplay, eschewing any overarching themes or messages. But, as corny as it sounds, for those who believe in the majesty of spaceflight, for those who are keen to marvel at how pernicious our plucky little species can be, Surviving Mars is SimCity with soul. It shows the challenges that come along with planetary migration, but it also shows that they are solvable. With the right planning, drive, and ingenuity, we can do great things together." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey
Attack On Titan 2 -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch)
"Despite its slow start, Attack on Titan 2 offers exciting gameplay along with a deep and intriguing plot that, melodrama aside, tugs on the heart strings. It's well-paced and offers some impressive spaces to move through. The unique combination of the movement and combat mechanics combines with a gripping story to make Attack on Titan 2 one of the more surprising releases of the year." [Read the full review] -- James Swinbanks
Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kindgom -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, PC)
"Ni No Kuni 2 is a robust game that offers ample ways to spend your time, and even if they aren't all up to the same level of quality, it's easy to appreciate how they collectively contribute to the bigger picture. It's chock full of excellent battles and surprising moments that make for a far more memorable experience than you initially expect and leaves you impressed by your own accomplishments. If you didn't play the first game, don't let this one pass you by too." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor
MLB The Show 18 -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"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] -- Eddie Makuch, Editor
Minit -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Minit's lives might only last 60 seconds, but its extremely well-thought-out world design and engrossing loop of progress make it a curse-filled adventure that is worth dying the world over for. Its throwback to classic visuals aren't done for aesthetic alone, as none of its gameplay systems scream antiquity. It's a slickly presented adventure that continually manages to surprise you with every new area you uncover or item you procure, pushing you to pick away at its seams to uncover every drop of what it has to offer. With a delightful ending and more promised after its first run of credits, Minit is far more than just a collection of seconds." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Barbosa
Far Cry 5 -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"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, Editor and Senior Producer
God of War -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"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
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"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, Editor and Senior Producer
The Alliance Alive -- 8/10 (Platforms: 3DS)
"There's a lot to love about The Alliance Alive: a well-paced story in an interesting world, a meaty mashup of unique combat elements, and a fantastic soundtrack that keeps you pumped and eager to explore. If you can put up with a bit of a learning curve, you'll find a great portable adventure well worth dusting off your 3DS for." [Read the full review] -- Heidi Kemps
Frostpunk -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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
Total War: Thrones of Britannia -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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
Battletech -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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, Editor and Senior Producer
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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
Far: Lone Sails -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"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
Yoku's Island Express -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch)
"Yoku's Island Express takes two unlikely genres and combines them into one playful, natural experience. The game's audio and visual design is simply joyous and the large game world seamlessly combines its pinball puzzles with some brilliant level designs. While traversing the large map does get frustrating at times, Yoku's Island Express' main quest never drags, and with its slate of fun abilities, quirky supporting characters and a generous amount of optional content, Yoku's Island Express is a unique journey that's refreshing and just straight up fun." [Read the full review] -- Alexander Pan
BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch)
"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
Onrush -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"When it comes to crumpling metal and high speed thrills, not all of Onrush's game modes are on equal footing in terms of consistent excitement. Yet its foundations are so strong, and so unique, that it's easy to lose hours upon hours barreling around these disparate tracks. The question of longevity will, of course, depend on post-release support, with new classes, game modes, and tracks potentially on the horizon. Considering you need 12 players to fill a full room, it would be a shame if Onrush doesn't find the kind of audience that will give it the lifespan it deserves. Part of this will depend on how Codemasters iterates on the game from here on out, but they've shown a proficiency in knowing how arcade racing games click, and Onrush is such a bold, refreshing twist on the genre that there should be little hesitation in putting your faith in them to succeed." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling
Unravel Two -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"With its charming yarnlings and a newfound style of platforming, Unravel Two remains welcoming even at its most foreboding. Sure, a forest fire breaks out in one of the latter stages, but even then, the race to keep ahead of the blaze is fun and frantic instead of stressful. In almost every moment you're given ample time and space to breathe and take in the stunning photorealistic world from the viewpoint of the tiniest creatures. It's a game with boisterous birds, chases through meadows, and most importantly a cheerful partnership with a companion who's always got your back. With only six chapters that run roughly 30 minutes apiece, Unravel Two doesn't last long, but it's a game where the time you have is meaningful, memorable, and downright pleasant from beginning to end." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark
The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Life is Strange gained a huge cult following, and whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, Captain Spirit captures a lot of the original game's appeal. Regardless of how you classify The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit--whether it's a standalone adventure, a demo, or a prologue--it's a beautiful game, and one that leaves you all the more excited about Life is Strange 2." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor
Recent Articles: | 
No comments:
Post a Comment