Resident Evil (2002)

The original Resident Evil was a groundbreaking title, mixing together survival and horror in a way that was never seen before. The PlayStation version was a product of its time, and the developer remastered it for the GameCube generation with a significant overhaul to its visuals and several quality-of-life changes. The fixed camera angles meant better pre-baked reflections and textures, making the visuals a step above what was possible with a free camera.

ANIMAL WELL 

The golden age of Metroidvanias continues to deliver modern classics, and Animal Well has surely joined that list. With no combat whatsoever and a striking pixel art aesthetic, it allows itself to stand out in a crowded genre, while its finely crafted and dense world, which remains a constant joy to explore from start to finish, is also a highlight. For fans of Metroidvanias, this one is unmissable.

TEKKEN 8 

Post-launch missteps notwithstanding, there’s plenty to love about Tekken 8 itself, and its visuals are high on that list. From the intricately crafted character models and the insanely detailed environments that all of the game’s explosive bouts take place in, to, of course, the fights themselves, everything in the game looks incredibly crisp and high-quality, helping elevating the on-screen action to even greater heights.

]]> 602689 https://gamingbolt.com/16-amazing-games-of-2024-you-should-be-paying-more-attention-to Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:10:19 +0000 https://gamingbolt.com/?p=595672 2024 may not be as packed as last year was, but halfway through the year, we’ve still already had a deluge of excellent new games, to the extent that many have, as is often the case, passed under the radar for a great many people. Here, we’re going to shine the spotlight on a few such smaller or relatively less mainstream titles that deserve to have more eyes on them.

ANIMAL WELL

Indie Metroidvanias are a dime a dozen these days, but Animal Well manages to stand out from the crowd nonetheless. On top of incredible level design, endlessly satisfying exploration, and ingeniously designed puzzles, Animal Well also boasts incredible art design and visuals. All of it comes together in one of the richest and most engaging Metroidvanias we’ve played in recent years.

]]> 595672 https://gamingbolt.com/brothers-a-tale-of-two-sons-remake-review-twin-stick-tearjerker Tue, 27 Feb 2024 16:53:53 +0000 https://gamingbolt.com/?p=579978 Developed by Starbreeze Studios by a team led by Josef Fares – who would go on to form Hazelight Studios and direct the likes of A Way Out and It Takes Two – the original Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons still holds a special place in the hearts of many, more than a decade on from its release. From its unique gameplay premise of controlling two characters simultaneously to the simultaneously heartwarming and heartrending story it told to the unique, nearly-worldless manner through which it chose to tell it, the charming adventure game made a lot of fans when it released back in 2013, and its timeless quality has only endeared it to more people as time has gone on.

That timeless quality is a tricky thing though, because publisher 505 Games has now come out with a remake of the game developed by Avantgarden, one that very faithfully recreates the original. That, of course, means that everything that made the original game great is present and accounted for in Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake as well, while some things have even seen minor yet noticeable improvements. At the same time, given how faithfully the remake sticks to the source material, the question is going to be worth asking- is it worth picking up if you own the original game?

"Brothers’ setting, which is one of its strongest points, is brought to life to great effect in the remake. Environments have a vibrant, fairy tale-esque look to them, and with a greater level of detail in the environments and on character models, everything feels just that much more alive and full of personality."

The areas where Brothers Remake makes the most noticeable improvements are, as you might imagine, the visuals. The original was never a graphical behemoth, and neither is the remake, but there’s no doubting that the latter represents quite a step up in terms of pure visual quality. The original, of course, still looks quite pleasant, thanks to the fact that it was always a gone that derived most of its visual strengths from its charming aesthetic and art design rather than any major technical accomplishments, but the technical upgrades that the remake does introduce allow that strong aesthetic to flourish that much more.

Brothers’ setting, which is one of its strongest points, is brought to life to great effect in the remake. Environments have a vibrant, fairy tale-esque look to them, and with a greater level of detail in the environments and on character models, everything feels just that much more alive and full of personality. Whether it’s the more nuanced animations you see on characters’ faces that allow the game’s more impactful narrative moments to have more of an impact, or sequences where the camera zooms out to show larger environments and their mystical, natural beauty, Brothers Remake looks consistently impressive, and is able to do an even job of transporting players to its settings than the original game did. That’s not to say it’s a completely spotless experience – I did occasionally run into some visual bugs, like objects and assets shimmering in the distance, or textures taking a couple extra seconds to load in – but barring some intermittent hiccups, it’s a visually pleasant and charming game.

On the gameplay front, Brothers Remake makes little to no changes to its source material. From the controls to everything that happens throughout the two brothers’ journey, everything that you remember from the original game is here, with the game hitting the same beats and offering up the same puzzles, platforming sequences, environmental interactions, and more. Thankfully, most of it still works as well as it did back in 2013.

"On the gameplay front, Brothers Remake makes little to no changes to its source material. From the controls to everything that happens throughout the two brothers’ journey, everything that you remember from the original game is here, with the game hitting the same beats and offering up the same puzzles, platforming sequences, environmental interactions, and more."

The puzzles are never too elaborate, but they do get increasingly complex and engaging as you’re tasked with simultaneously coordinating the two brothers’ actions in tandem, culminating in some particularly well-designed sequences. A lot of the gameplay also relies on the two brothers simply interacting with mundane things in their surroundings, from objects lying around to animals milling about to people going about their business and more. Seeing how each brother behaves in these entirely optional interactions never gets old, and just as in the original, you’ll be rewarded – narratively, if not mechanically – for constantly seeking out these small but memorable moments.

One issue that I do have – and it was one that many had even with the original back when it first released – is the controls. On paper, Brothers sounds like a very simply game to control- you control the older brother with the left stick and trigger, and the younger brother with the right stick and trigger, and those simple, straightforward inputs govern every single action you take throughout the entirety of your roughly three-hour playthrough. Very quickly, however, you realize that simultaneously controlling two characters can be a bit of an unwieldy experience. Even when you’re simply walking through environments and not doing much else, it’s more than likely that you’re going to be struggling to just get the two brothers to move about like, you know, normal people. It can get pretty frustrating at times, and though these frustrations were easier to forgive in the original game, where the very concept of controlling two characters simultaneously in such a manner was a novel one, here, in this remake, that novelty is gone by default, and in its wake, the frustrations feel a bit more pronounced. Thankfully, Brothers Remake has the option to play the game in co-op, and it does become a much smoother experience that way, even if it loses some of its moment-to-moment uniqueness.

The game is just as faithful of a recreation from a narrative perspective as well- which, considering the fact that the original is still one of the most heartrending and effectively told stories in a game even now, works in its favour. Characters in Brothers’ world do speak, but they don’t do it often, and when they do, they speak in a fictional, made-up language. The vast majority of the story is told through worldless interactions and through the environment, and from its lighthearted moments to the darker and more harrowing sequences that characterize the game’s latter half, it rarely misses the mark. This is a short game, clocking in at just about three hours (or thereabouts), but in that short time, it definitely leaves a lasting impression.

"The controls can get pretty frustrating at times, and though these frustrations were easier to forgive in the original game, where the very concept of controlling two characters simultaneously in such a manner was a novel one, here, in this remake, that novelty is gone by default, and in its wake, the frustrations feel a bit more pronounced."

But again, we come back to our original question- is this a remake worth spending your money on if you already own the original? If you haven’t, the answer is an easy yes, thanks to the excellent storytelling and setting and the straightforward but enjoyable gameplay mechanics. If you have, however, a purchase gets much harder to justify, not only because this is such a conventional and faithful remake, but also because of the fact that the original game is still very easily accessible in modern hardware, and at pretty low prices to boot (not to mention the fact that this is quite a short game). Mileage will vary on whether the visual upgrades are enough to justify that purchase, but there will invariably be caveats to any decision you make here.

On its own merits, the original Brothers was an excellent game, so a remake that faithfully brings all of its strengths forward into an experience that makes noticeable visual upgrades will keeping the experience’s core unchanged is bound to be good. Even if returning fans may not have as much of a reason to double dip here, for those who’ve never played the original, Brothers Remake is the best way to experience one of the most impactful narrative experiences in gaming in years.

This game was reviewed on the PlayStation 5.

It was first released in August 2013 for Xbox 360 and eventually came to PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. Directed by Josef Fares of A Way Out and It Takes Two fame, it was developed by Starbreeze Studios, better known for the Payday series. It garnered critical acclaim for its emotional story-telling and unorthodox gameplay and would sell over 800,000 units as of 2015, a triumph for a smaller project.

The remake is published by 505 Games and developed by Avantgarden. Though it sticks close to the original, here’s what newcomers and long-time fans can expect.

Story

The story of Brothers revolves around Naiee, the younger sibling, and Naia, the elder sibling. After losing their mother, their father has fallen ill. The only cure lies with the healing waters of the Tree of Life. Thus, the brothers embark on a journey to retrieve it. Their journey takes them across various regions and reveals the fantasy aspects of the title. Unfortunately, like many fairy tales, things take a dark turn, but you’ll need to play for yourself to see what happens.

Overhauled Visuals

The most obvious change with the remake is the visuals. They look more realistic and detailed while maintaining the animated approach, and feature improved lighting and shadows, sharper textures and smoother animation. Clothes now have discernible textures, right down to individual threads. Opinions may be mixed on such wholesale changes, but the atmosphere feels true to the original.

Rebuilt Characters and Landscapes

Along with vastly remade visuals, the characters and landscapes have been rebuilt from the ground up. Naiee and Naia have more well-defined faces, while their animations are night and day from the original, right down to the facial expressions. As for the environments, you see more foliage, better road textures and even a slightly larger sense of scale. Overall, it comes together quite well.

Gameplay

So what do you do in Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons? At heart, it’s a puzzle adventure, with each sibling tackling situations in unique ways. Naia can pull levers that won’t ordinarily move for Naiee, while the latter can fit into tight spaces that the former can’t due to his size. It’s also possible for Naia to boost Naiee up to specific areas. Of course, regardless of their strengths and weaknesses, they must work together to survive and progress forward.

Controlling Both Characters

The main hook of Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is that you control both characters at the same time, all the time, whether moving or coordinating puzzles. This comes into play in various scenarios, like when using a hang-glider or platforming across pillars with a rope, as one brother holds on and acts as an anchor while the other swings across. Given how it made waves at the time for essentially being a single-player title with co-op mechanics, it should be interesting to see the response to the remake.

Smoother Controls

While the remake doesn’t fundamentally change how the game plays, it focuses on ensuring the controls are smoother. In its development diary, Avantgarden also confirmed that the more fluid and dynamic movements were in line with the animation quality, which has seen many improvements.

Improved Cutscenes

Of course, as the team at Avantgarden noted in their first development diary, the aim was to emphasize the original story without changing too much. That being said, there is a noticeable change to the cutscene direction and cinematography with new camera angles and whatnot. It fits with the team’s goal of maintaining the original’s style but “re-proposing it in a more modern way from a visual point of view.”

Improved Boss Fights

Yes, there are boss fights to be had, but if you ever found them to be annoying in the original, there are improvements in the remake. What those are has yet to be fully detailed; however, the developer feels they’ve improved a lot and should surprise players.

Re-Recorded Soundtrack

The graphics aren’t the only element to receive a massive facelift, as the soundtrack has been re-recorded with a live orchestra. Composed by Gustaf Grefberg, it’s a magical experience and holds up even today. It would be interesting if there’s an option to switch between the original and re-recorded soundtrack, but we’ll need to wait for more details.

Local Co-op

Like the Nintendo Switch version of the original, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons offers local co-op for two players, each controlling one of the brothers. Online co-op isn’t included, which is to be expected since Fares’s other titles don’t offer the same, but shouldn’t stop it from being an enjoyable experience. Even though two people share the burden, Avantgarden maintains that it must be played as if a single person is playing, so coordination is mandatory.

New Secrets

While the remake sticks very closely to the original, right down to its secrets, there is the tease of “new secrets” for players to find. What these are remains unknown, but perhaps they shine more light on the setting or serve as a neat Easter egg. Is it too much to hope for an alternate ending if you fulfill certain conditions? Probably, but we’re looking forward to seeing what they are. Whether it will have the concept art gallery, soundtrack selection, and Director’s Commentary from the Xbox One and PS4 versions is another matter entirely, but it would be nice to see them included.

PC Requirements

The original Brothers ran on Windows XP, required 2 GB of installation space and required DirectX 9. Unsurprisingly, the remake is more demanding on PC.

You’ll need Windows 10 64-bit, 35 GB of installation space and a GPU that supports DirectX 11. Minimum requirements include an Intel Core i7-6700 or AMD Ryzen 5 1500X, 8 GB RAM and an Nvidia GeForce GTX1 650 with 8 GB VRAM. The recommended requirements include an Intel Core i7-10700 or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X, 16 GB of RAM and a Geforce RTX 2060 Super 6 GB or Radeon RX 5700 8 GB.

4K Ultra HD on Xbox Series X

Avantgarden hasn’t said anything about the frame rate and resolution of the remake yet. However, the Xbox Store listing indicates support for HDR10 and 4K Ultra HD, so that could be the case for the PS5 version. Though 60 FPS isn’t specified, there may be different graphical modes to ensure the same. As always, time will tell.

Playtime

If you played Fares’s other titles, like A Way Out or It Takes Two, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake won’t be a long experience. HowLongToBeat.com puts the original at 3 to 4.5 hours if playing through the story at a leisurely pace. If you try to complete everything, then it will take about four to 7.5 hours, depending on your preference. It’s the video game form of “long story short” and may appeal to those who want a nice snappy experience.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

Unexpected but welcome all the same, Avantgarden’s remake of Starbreeze Studios’ Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons still features the same story of two brothers, Naiee and Naia, on a journey to cure their father’s illness. Controlling both characters at once, players must solve puzzles, utilizing their unique skill sets to progress.

The original is acclaimed for its gameplay and story-telling, which the remake modernizes thanks to a graphical overhaul and re-recorded soundtrack. It also touts new secrets and local co-op, which was added to the original in its 2019 Nintendo Switch version. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake launches on February 28th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden

After the critically acclaimed Jusant, DON’T NOD is back with a somewhat more traditional action RPG in Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden. It focuses on two Banishers, Antea and Red, who help spirits move on. Tragedy quickly strikes in New Eden when Antea dies and remains with Red as a ghost. They must now face a tough decision – sacrifice other people to revive her or continue their work, potentially losing her forever.

As players meet other characters and resolve their crises, their decisions will affect the overall narrative, with five different endings to unlock. Combat is also intriguing since you use Red to unleash bullets and slashes or switch to Antea at any time for her supernatural abilities (which are also good for dealing with crowds). Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden arrives on February 13th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Pacific Drive

A drive through an abandoned zone at night may sound creepy, but as Ironwood Studios’ Pacific Drive reveals, things can be worse. Players start out traveling the Pacific Northwest before randomly being teleported into the Olympic Exclusion Zone, once a site for various experiments and now home to dangerous Anomalies. Upon discovering an aged station wagon, they brief the corrosion and storms to find a garage and characters who could help them escape.

It’s easier said than done, as they must venture into the Zone to gather supplies and materials, acquiring Stable Energy and braving the storm to make it back alive. They must then repair and outfit their vehicle, unlock new items via the Fabrication Station, and eventually unravel the mystery of the Zone to escape. With a rogue-lite structure, quirks that can alter your vehicle’s performance (for better or worse) and Anomalies that spice up runs in various harrowing ways, Pacific Drive is truly unique. It’s out on February 22nd for PS5 and PC.

Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League

When the Justice League goes rogue, you call Batman. When Batman also goes rogue (kind of), then you call the Suicide Squad, probably. Regardless, Deadshot, Harley Quinn, King Shark and Captain Boomerang – along with a host of supporting characters – are the only ones who can save Metropolis after Brainiac invades and brainwashes the League. Touted as Rocksteady’s “biggest cinematic experience”, and easily its biggest story, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League also seems to have some multiverse shenanigans going on with Brainiac’s Elseworlds.

Gameplay-wise, it’s a looter shooter with co-op support, skill trees, mods, gear sets (known as Infamy Sets), an end-game and live-service elements like seasons, a Battle Pass and microtransactions. Players can control one of the Squad, while the AI handles the rest, in single-player, kitting out their character with different guns and exploring the vast city with unique traversal skills. For all the mixed receptions, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League has generated some interest. We’ll see if it can deliver a worthwhile experience when it launches on February 1st for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Skull and Bones

What’s better than one live-service title rumored to have been in development for years and seen multiple reboots? How about two? Skull and Bones has had a long journey, reportedly starting development in 2013 and officially announced in 2017. It’s an action-adventure focused on naval combat, set in the Indian Ocean during the Golden Age of Piracy, as players seek to establish themselves as legendary pirates. Before that, they must take on contracts for Pirate Kingpins, raiding convoys and transporting goods while contending with opposing forces.

There are multiple ships, each designed for specific purposes with several weapon and damage types. Even furniture can affect your ship’s performance in various ways. Those not keen on PvE can indulge in PvP modes, from the high-risk, high-reward Helm Wagers to the player bounty-focused Cutthroat Cargo, with leaderboards, Kingpin Ranks and whatnot. Skull and Bones is out on February 16th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, with a year of post-launch content planned. Whether it saves past that point is anyone’s guess, but we’re relieved it’s coming out.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

The developer is going all out with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, the second part of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake saga. A massive map with seamless exploration and near-instant fast-travelling, tons of mini-games, new cities and areas not present in the original setting, tons of side quests, new Summons, combat improvements and Synergy Abilities – the list goes on. That’s not even getting into the story side of things, with all kinds of potential revelations teased and characters like Cid and Vincent Valentine making their debut.

It’s almost too much, with 100 hours of gameplay promised, but also oddly fitting for such an iconic part of Cloud and party’s journey, as they venture outside of Midgar to locate Sephiroth. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth launches on February 29th for PS5, shipping on two Blu-ray discs, and already looks like a shoo-in for Game of the Year.

Helldivers 2

Helldivers is back, and despite the third-person perspective, the war to protect the democracy of Super-Earth remains as perilous as ever. If it’s not the massive Bugs and Automations that are out to get you, it’s friendly fire and a poorly placed Stratagem.

Nevertheless, with procedural generation, terrain deformation, stunning visuals and cross-platform play between PS5 and PC, Helldivers 2 promises a much larger scale than the original when it launches on February 8th. That extends to the new Galactic War, as players liberate planets and complete objectives, with the community as a whole progressing the storyline. You can even earn unlocks to outfit and upgrade your destroyer.

Sons of the Forest (1.0 Release)

Almost a year since launching into early access, Endnight Games’ Sons of the Forest is finally set to launch in full on February 22nd for PC. Version 1.0 will expand on the story, with Shawn Ashmore of Quantum Break fame playing a key role, but it’s already grown significantly during its time in early access.

New areas and caves, bosses, items, vehicles, points of interest, and more have been added, along with improvements to building and electricity systems. That’s only scratching the surface, with Cannibals having a wider range of behaviors (and new types); Kelvin having more commands and emotes; and survival gameplay being made tougher (with Hard survival available for those who crave a challenge).

Mario vs. Donkey Kong

The King of Kong is back in the antagonistic role, giving into his consumer urges and swiping a bunch of Mini-Mario toys. As the president of the toy factory, Mario ventures to get them back, traversing multiple stages and eventually defeating Donkey Kong. As a remake of the 2004 Game Boy Advance classic with gorgeous new visuals and cinematics, Mario vs. Donkey Kong incorporates more puzzle solving, as players bypass traps and other hazards to gather keys, progress to the next part of the stage and rescue a Mini-Mario.

There are multiple worlds to explore, with Plus and Expert Levels to overcome, but the remake adds two more for over 130 levels, a new Time Attack Mode, local co-op and Casual Style for less punishing gameplay. Mario vs. Donkey Kong launches on February 16th for Nintendo Switch.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink

Yet another title years in the making and finally primed to launch, Granblue Fantasy: Relink is based on Cygames’ successful free-to-play gacha RPG. Unlike the original, it’s an action RPG that ventures to new lands in the Zegagrande Kingdom. It’s not long before Gran/Djeeta, Lyria and the Grandcypher crew run afoul of trouble involving the Primal Beasts.

Along with Gran and Djeeta, players can play as other characters like Narmaya, Lancelot, Percival, Katalina, Rackam and many more, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Combat is fast-paced, whether building up to Link Time or activating Skybound Arts in tandem to deal massive damage with a Full Burst attack.

Along with an extensive campaign, there are 100 quests in Quest Mode and support for up to four players in co-op. Time will tell if Granblue Fantasy: Relink lives up to the hype, but thankfully, we won’t have to wait long, as it launches on February 1st for PS4, PS5 and PC.

Tomb Raider 1–3 Remastered

Though we’re not anywhere closer to a launch for Aspyr’s Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic – Remake, it does have Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered coming up on February 14th for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC. Utilizing the original’s source code and engine, the remasters feature revamped character models and environments with baked and real-time lighting (though you can switch back to the original look).

Modern controls are available in addition to the Classic option, with boss health bars and Photo Mode also available. Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered could be the blast from the past that we need.

Open Roads

A narrative-focused adventure title with gorgeous animated characters set against 3D environments, Annapurna Interactive’s Open Roads is about Tess and her mother Opal. Venturing on a road trip to learn more about the past, they venture to abandoned properties to uncover long-buried secrets. There are extensive conversations and more than a few emotional moments, with actors Keri Russell and Kaitlyn Dever bringing the duo to life. Open Roads launches on February 22nd for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC and Nintendo Switch, while also available on day one for Game Pass.

Nightingale (Early Access)

Following its announcement in December 2021, Inflexion Games’ Nightingale will finally enter early access for PC on February 22nd. As an open-world survival crafting title, players control the Realmwalker, who ventures to different Fae realms to find the city of Nightingale. It’s easier said than done, with threats like the Bound and Apex creatures out to ruin your fun.

While players can settle down in a realm, building a base and recruiting NPCs, they can also use Realm Cards to shape their next destination, making it more or less dangerous. The early access version will feature three biome types, a progression system “spanning all aspects of gameplay”, various creatures and “comprehensive building and crafting tools, alongside estate management,” as per the Steam listing. Nightingale will remain in early access for nine to 12 months, adding biomes, story and even the city itself, but it should be interesting to see how the base game fares.

Terminator: Dark Fate – Defiance

Originally set to launch in December, Slitherine Ltd.’s Terminator: Dark Fate – Defiance is now out on February 7th for PC. Based on the Dark Fate timeline, the real-time strategy sees humanity going up against the killer robots of Legion and fighting for survival. Commanding the Founders, players navigate the war torn world of the future, recruiting and training new units for battles.

Other factions can join or oppose you during these conflicts, with different missions opening up depending on your actions. Several unit types, from drones to armored vehicles, are available, and players can control the other factions – the Resistance and Legion – in Skirmish and Multiplayer. As far as Terminator titles are concerned, it’s intriguing and could be the best thing to result from Dark Fate.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 3 and 4

A new age of Falcom’s Kiseki series is due this Summer, with The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak finally launching in the West. Until then, fans can re-experience The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 3 and 4 on PS5 when both titles launch on February 16th. Originally available in Japan for the PS4 in 2017, Cold Steel 3 follows Rean Schwarzer, now a teacher in Thors Branch Campus, training a new Class VII – composed of Kurt Vander, Juna Crawford and Altina Orion – to conduct Special Operations for the Erebonian Empire.

Musse Egret and Ash Carbide eventually join, but rampant conspiracies could shake the very foundation of the empire. As for Cold Steel 4, well, that’s just getting into spoiler territory. The PS5 versions of both titles feature high-definition visuals and all previously released cosmetic DLC. While it’s far from the most graphically impressive pair of RPGs, they make up for it with their story-telling, world-building and excellent combat.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered

The Last of Us Part 2 is already a stellar-looking game, and the Remastered version further improves that. Launching on January 19th for PS5, it adds Performance and Fidelity modes like 1440p and native 4K on PS5 while improving the sampling rate of animations, shadow quality and level-of-detail distance. We’ll need detailed comparisons, but it still looks great on its own.

Tekken 8

Built from the ground up on Unreal Engine 5 for current-gen platforms, Tekken 8 is drop-dead gorgeous. From the environments with extensive details and destruction to the clothing physics on characters, it’s superb, which is saying something, given how well it performs on consoles and PC. Tekken 8 is out on January 26th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

Complaints against the writing, combat and live-service elements are justified, but Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League does showcase Rockstar’s visual prowess. Metropolis looks fairly meticulous, whether it’s the superhero references or draw distance. The characters also look good, particularly the facial animations, and the chaotic combat showcases some nice effects. Whether it defies expectations or not, Suicide Squad should at least be a pretty journey.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons wasn’t exactly on top of anyone’s list of desired remakes, despite being a great game. Nevertheless, Avantgarden SRL’s remake, launching February 28th on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, is stunning. The abject detail on each brother with their revamped models, the meticulous environmental textures, and the incredible use of lighting confer a fantasy mood to the adventure without taking away the soul of the original.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Perhaps the biggest jump in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the scale of its environments. The world beyond Midgar is dotted with details, with improved levels of detail, textures, draw distances and stunning skyboxes. All of that fidelity doesn’t detract from the characters, which look better than ever, and it’s simply a feast for the eyes. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth arrives on February 29th for PS5.

Rise of the Ronin

Team Ninja’s Nioh series and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty look good but didn’t quite take that next-gen graphics leap. Cue Rise of the Ronin, exclusive to PS5 and launching March 22nd, with its realistic environments, character models and intricate effects. The detail and draw distance are also impressive, and we can’t wait to see more.

Black Myth: Wukong

While its reveal was impressive enough, Black Myth: Wukong shifted to Unreal Engine 5 several years ago. The support of 4K at 60 FPS and ray tracing is great, but its near photo-realistic environments, lighting, and effects make it a force to reckon with. It’s out on August 20th for PS5, PC and Xbox Series X/S.

The Alters

This War of Mine and Frostpunk showcased 11 bit Studios as a stickler for details. While Frostpunk 2 is going for a larger, more vibrant city, The Alters opts for a more personal connection when it launches this year for PC. With protagonist Jan Dolski interacting with alternate versions of himself, the presentation with the character models, facial animations and cutscenes looks exceptional. That’s not to discount everything else, whether it’s the atmospherics of the hostile planet that Jan must escape or the sheer goings-on of the base.

Ark 2

Even after going from ARK: Survival Evolved to Survival Ascended, Ark 2 looks like a bigger step forward. Developed on Unreal Engine 5, it promises more realistic foliage, weather systems and real-time ambient lighting with its expanded sandbox and massive environment. Extensive gameplay has yet to be showcased, but Ark 2 will launch in late 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC. An extensive reveal could very well be around the corner.

The First Descendant

Nexon is known for various titles, from Dungeon Fighter Online to Dave the Diver. With The First Ascendant, it jumps into the world of looters, using Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a sci-fi third-person shooter. It has looked good thus far, from the models and the lighting to the scale of its levels, with a plan to launch this Summer for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Little Nightmares 3

If you played the previous games, you know what to expect with Little Nightmares 3, even with Supermassive Games now in charge of development. Moody lighting, intricate shadows, dilapidated levels – it’s all here and looks better than ever. There are even some impressive particle and weather effects, as seen in the Necropolis. Thankfully, we won’t have to wait long to play it, as Little Nightmares 3 launches this year for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC, PS4 and Nintendo Switch.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2

Ninja Theory’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice has received extensive acclaim, partly due to its status as an independent studio and mostly due to its presentation. Under Microsoft, it’s stepping up in every department that matters, from its cloud-generation tech for more atmospheric scenes to its impeccable facial animations. It’s billed as the studio’s biggest project yet and launches for Xbox Series X/S and PC this year.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl

It’s astounding that GSC Game World is offering the kind of scope and scale of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl despite the ongoing issues. It’s even more incredible when you consider how good the game looks, leveraging Unreal Engine 5 to deliver exceptional effects, animations, lighting and shadows. The fact that it’s targeting 60 FPS in Performance Mode on Xbox Series X with this level of fidelity is just the cherry on top. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is planned to launch in Q1 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Star Wars Outlaws

The Snowdrop Engine has provided great success for Massive Entertainment, from its introduction in Tom Clancy’s The Division to its recent use in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. Star Wars Outlaws is the latest title to leverage its lighting, rendering system and fidelity to deliver its visuals. Thus far, it’s looking good, with seamless planet-to-space transitions and impressive draw distances, en route to its launch for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown

It may not beat out Forza Motorsport or Gran Turismo 7, but Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown sports detailed vehicles (with their chassis offering realistic reflections), weather effects and environments. Offering a 1:1 recreation of Hong Kong Island, from extensive foliage to sharp skylines, the sensation of racing is also on point. Launching in early 2024 for PS5, PC and Xbox Series X/S, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown should be a worthwhile resurgence for the franchise.

The Chinese Room’s next big horror, Still Wakes the Deep, launches in 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC. Inspired by Suspiria and The Thing, it’s set on an oil rig amid a storm, with a hostile presence hunting the player. Its claustrophobic environments and pathways offer plenty of opportunity for the lighting and textures to shine, to say nothing of the realistic water. As harrowing as it looks, Still Wakes the Deep could be one of the better-looking first-person horror titles this year.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

You can’t count out Ichiban Kasuga, and his adventure to Honolulu City is shaping up to be the series’ biggest yet when Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth launches on January 26th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and PC. Visuals and presentation have never been an issue for the Like a Dragon franchise, but the new locales allow for all kinds of flexing, from the aquatic life to the realistically rendered ocean. Everything else looks fantastic, from the characters and facial expressions to the towns, cities and over-the-top summons.

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 maintains the first game’s four-player co-op and unforgiving shooting, right down to the friendly fire. The visual fidelity is something else, especially from the new third-person perspective. The environments feel like proper alien worlds with unique vegetation and realistic textures, while the bugs are downright terrifying. It’s out on February 8th for PS5 and PC.

Skull and Bones

To say that Skull and Bones is cursed would be an understatement, simply due to the sheer number of delays and rumored reboots. It’s launching on February 16th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, and say what you will, but at least the graphics look nice. The gorgeous ocean, lighting and material details sell the pirate fantasy. Now, the rest of the game has to measure up.

Pacific Drive

Part supernatural adventure, part rogue-lite driving title, Pacific Drive launches on February 22nd for PS5 and PC. The usage of lighting and atmospherics is impressive, alternating between moody and over-the-top, as players navigate the Olympic Exclusion Zone, avoiding anomalies and diving into its surreal lore.

Nivalis

ION LANDS’ Nivalis may not win the award for most realistic-looking humans, but that doesn’t matter. The slice-of-life sim uses voxels to excellent effect, mixing ambient neon lighting and weather effects (including snow blanketing the city). There is a lot to love, whether managing a restaurant or fishing on the docks, and it’s out this year for PC.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is reportedly coming out this year if we can believe PlayStation’s trailer. Based on the in-engine look from last October, it’s coming along nicely, capturing the essence of the original while updating the visuals. Realistically drying and dripping mud, intricate vegetation and wildlife – it’s all here, and coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Silent Hill 2

You can say plenty about Bloober Team’s approach to horror games (I know I have), but there’s no denying its visual prowess. Silent Hill 2 is built from the ground up on Unreal Engine 5 and features Lumen and Nanite with dynamic global illumination that realistically interacts with the environment. Of course, there’s more to Silent Hill than lights and shadows, and that’s where motion capture comes in, offering the “best facial expressions” in the series per creative director Mateusz Lenar. PlayStation hyped a release window for this year. If true, Silent Hill 2 could be one of the best-looking games on PS5 and PC.

Death Stranding 2

Kojima Productions is again using Decima Engine for Death Stranding 2, which is perfect given how the first game delivered on every front. If anything, the sequel will look even better since it’s a current-gen exclusive. However, it also utilizes Unreal Engine 5’s MetaHuman, meaning the character models will look even more realistic than before. A release window is still up in the air, but 2024 could be the year when we see more.

Unrecord

One of the most intriguing and controversial games revealed last year was DRAMA’s Unrecord, a tactical FPS using the perspective of a police officer’s bodycam. Its photo-realistic visuals (courtesy of Unreal Engine 5) gained significant attention, though there’s also been scrutiny over its legitimacy and unsettling realism. Time will tell if the game delivers this level of fidelity, but thus far, it’s impressive, if nothing else.

Honor of Kings World

Also developed in Unreal Engine is Honor of Kings World, which has improved significantly since its initial reveal trailer years ago. The fantasy aesthetic looks great, and the environments are almost surreal. There’s a realistic vibe to the overall flow and combat but backed by more realistic characters and effects. It doesn’t have a release window, but given how clean the latest gameplay trailer looked, it could receive more details this year.

Crimson Desert

Pearl Abyss is no stranger to exceptional visuals – see Black Desert Online – and with Crimson Desert, it’s focusing its efforts on a single-player experience. Based on the latest gameplay trailer, there’s much to love, from the impressive destruction to the effects and foliage. Even the sheer scale of the fantasy countryside is something to behold, complete with realistic lighting and fantastic character models. Crimson Desert doesn’t have a release window – it’s reportedly delayed to Q2 2025 – but it’s coming to consoles and PC.

Phantom Blade Zero

From an art perspective, Phantom Blade Zero is intriguing, utilizing greyer tones and darker atmospherics. There’s a subtlety to the lighting while environments, characters and weather effects are painstakingly rendered. It’s almost tough to believe that it’s targetting 2K/60 FPS and 4K/30 FPS on PS5 (with a PC release confirmed), but still exciting.

Grand Theft Auto 6

While it’s only received one barely two-minute-long trailer, Grand Theft Auto 6 has already proven itself in the graphics department. Character models are a massive leap over Grand Theft Auto 5, realistically interacting with lighting effects and shadows. The draw distance and level of detail in environments are also eye-watering. It’s out in 2025 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, and while there’s a way to go, Grand Theft Auto 6’s graphics are already looking great.

Light No Fire

Hello Games finally revealed its next big title, set on an Earth-sized planet. Light No Fire promises a fantasy adventure with no boundaries, packed with survival mechanics and RPG elements, but we’re already impressed by its various biomes, creatures and aesthetics. The shrubbery, dynamic lighting, shadows – everything comes together. With no release window and only a PC version announced it may be a while before it launches.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a 2.5D platformer that takes place in a wonderfully imaginative world brimming with hideous creatures and gnarly traps around every corner. Add to that some simple yet promising gameplay, and The Lost Crown becomes a tantalizing deal that’s hard to pass on. It releases for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on January 18, though owners of the Deluxe Edition can enjoy it right now through early access.

The Last of Us Part 2: Remastered

The Last of Us Part 2 is not only an amazing cinematic adventure, but it’s also a masterful example of how to invoke strong emotions with its dark yet engaging storyline. Naughty Dog has rounded up work on a remastered version of the game that soups up the visuals to 4K along with a slew of other significant enhancements such as a roguelike mode called No Return and a brand new set of Lost Levels which weren’t present in the original release. It comes out on January 19 exclusively for PS5.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth dumps players into a tropical haven adorned with flamboyant neighborhoods and long beaches. Infinite Wealth seems primed to be a fresh chapter for the series, but it will also retain the eccentric elements and the turn-based combat that made Yakuza: Like A Dragon so great in the first place. And not to forget, we will be seeing Ichiban and Kiryu together once again, so, you know it’s going to be a fun time when it comes out for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S on January 26, 2024.

Tekken 8

The Mishima Saga continues with the eighth game in the main series, the story continues after the events of Tekken 7 with Jin now hellbent on defeating Kazuya in an epic battle where fists meet fate. The game serves as a direct sequel to Tekken 7 with improved graphics, and a reworked Heat system that rewards aggressive play among a whole host of other improvements. This new installment is equal parts an homage to the genre’s glorious past as it is a confident step forward which should make it an endearing experience for both newcomers and returning fans. It comes out for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on January 26, 2024.

Palworld

Palworld can best be described as a weird mishmash of Pokemon and Monster Hunter. Set in a world inhabited by all manner of beasts, Palworld tasks players to explore a fantastical land brimming with cute cuddly creatures, arm them with deadly weapons, and explore dungeons for even better loot and resources. The dichotomy between the cute art style and the violent elements is something that’s pretty distinct, and Palworld might just be a surprise hit when it launches in early access on the 19th of this month for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Skull and Bones

Skull and Bones has been in development for a long time, and the game might just be finally on track to release in the upcoming months. The pirate adventure will take players on a grand voyage across the Caribbean Sea as they search for valuable loot and treasures. It’s going to primarily be a survival game with support for co-op gameplay, which is quite different from the original vision but it definitely has some potential to be a good time. Skull and Bones will be released for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC on 16th February 2024.

Terminator Dark Fate: Defiance

Developer Slitherin is a master of creating RTS games, and its next project Terminator Dark Fate: Defiance is looking to be emblematic of its biggest strengths. Set during the Future Wars, Terminator Dark Fate: Defiance is all about commanding an army to victory in a wide variety of different combat scenarios. The gameplay is just as complex as one would expect with players having to pay tons of attention to unit placement, supplies, and much more. The developer also boasts elements like physics-based destruction and a reactive story, so there’s quite a bit to look forward to when it comes out for PC on February 21, 2024.

Pacific Drive

Pacific Drive is a weird mishmash of two very contrasting genres – namely racing and survival. The hook of the game revolves around driving your station wagon through vast stretches of uninhabitable jungle-like environments with storms and unforgiving weather conditions making that journey even tougher. As the driver, you need to keep tabs on your resources and collect everything and anything to upgrade your vehicle to its fullest capacity. It’s looking like a fresh experience, and we will definitely be checking it out when it releases on 22 February for PS5 and PC.

Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will start off where Part 1 left off, and will continue the adventures of Cloud and friends as they work to fend off planet Earth from the wrath of Shinra. The game will once again mark the return of the hybrid combat system we saw in Part 1, and fans can expect plenty of new surprises along with a bunch of nostalgic moments as you adventure across the vast map of Midgard when it comes out for PS5 on 29th February 2024.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

At first glance Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes might seem like a generic RPG but what makes this Rabbit and Bear Studios-created upcoming game stand out from the barrage of similar contemporaries is the ability to control a vast array of playable heroes. The combat is turn-based, and the unique art style of the game promises to make it an intriguing experience. In addition to this, there’s a plethora of game mechanics to play like War mode and other mini-games that should make it a fun time. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes releases on April 23, 2024 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.

Rise of the Ronin

Team Ninja has been doing a wonderful job with its signature brand of Soulslikes, and Rise of the Ronin seems like a natural step forward for the studio. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Japan, the game puts players in the shoes of a Ronin who must make a name for himself in this land torn apart by war and conflict. You can pursue a wide array of quests, take part in cinematic sword fights, take to the skies on a wind glider, and do all sorts of different activities as you explore this wonderfully well-realized setting. It releases for PS5 on 22 March 2024 – and we will be checking this one out.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is currently slated to release on 22 March 2024 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, and suffice it to say – it looks really amazing. It seems to be building upon the foundations of the genre with its complex set of mechanics and tons of flexibility in how you choose to go about enemy encounters. You can wield different spells and swords, hang out around encampments, fight against gargantuan animals, and a whole host of different activities. And if that doesn’t sound cool enough, I don’t know what will.

Helldivers II

Developed by Arrowhead Games, Helldivers 2 is a co-op shooter where players participate in a large-scale galactic conflict in exotic locations set in outer space. Helldivers 2 impresses with its grand sense of scale, immense levels of chaos, and high-fidelity graphics. The gameplay looks fast and frenetic with the player character, and the fact that it’s meant to be enjoyed with friends makes it all the better. It’s set to release on 8th February for PS5 and PC.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons was an emotional journey about two brothers that manages to effortlessly translate its narrative themes of companionship and brotherhood into the gameplay with its distinct set of mechanics. Developer Avantgarden is bringing back this classic with a full-fledged remake that’s a big graphical step up from the original, and it all looks wonderful with well-realized environments and smoothed-out animations among a slew of other improvements. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons remake comes out on February 28, 2024, for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Sons of the Forest 1.0 Release

Sons of the Forest was an amazing sequel that excellently builds upon what came before in new and interesting ways, and the game is finally en route to its version 1.0 release. In addition to introducing new dubbings to the story, the final release will also feature a slew of miscellaneous gameplay improvements that we will get to know about as it approaches its imminent release date of 22 February 2024 for PC.

Grand Theft Auto 6

The biggest game on this list, which is not even out until 2025, is Grand Theft Auto 6. Rockstar Games’ highly anticipated sequel already hit 150 million views on YouTube with its first trailer with no signs of slowing down. The prospect of a modern Vice City setting, that too built for current-gen platforms, with new protagonists and the sheer insanity of the brand is already enticing off the bat. Rockstar touts this as the “biggest, most immersive evolution” of the series yet, and we’re inclined to believe them. It’s coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S first, with a PC version yet to be announced.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

When you think of Skyrim-like titles, Dragon’s Dogma from Capcom probably isn’t the first to come to mind. The action RPG debuted in 2012, and despite lacking the detail of Bethesda’s world, made up for it with incredible combat, Pawns and an insane story. Dragon’s Dogma 2 looks to build on that in every possible way, introducing new locations, Vocations, tactics and more while polishing the combat and Pawn mechanics. With a world that’s four times larger and impressive fidelity courtesy of RE Engine, it should make a bigger impression than the original after launching on March 22nd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Examining the concept of infinity isn’t a particularly new endeavor, but from the lens of Like a Dragon, it results in the series’ longest game yet. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth starts with Ichiban Kasuga, the protagonist from Yakuza: Like a Dragon, venturing to Honolulu City to find his birth mother. Through some rather bizarre circumstances (like waking up on a beach in a compromising way), he teams up with Kazuma Kiryu and runs afoul of the local mafia (led by new antagonist Dwight Mendez, voiced by Danny Trejo). The stakes are higher than ever, but Infinite Wealth still promises plenty of over-the-top fun, from delivering meals in Crazy Taxi-like fashion to interacting with mascots while building up Dondoko Island.

OD

Kojima Productions finally revealed its newest IP recently – OD, a horror game, also the same title that Xbox Game Studios is publishing. Aside from utilizing the company’s cloud-native technology and featuring the likes of Jordan Peele as a collaborator (among others), there isn’t much known about the title. Some trademarks for Social Stealth and Social Scream System offer hints at the multiplayer elements, though it may end up like Death Stranding and retain a single-player focus. Nevertheless, it may be a while before gameplay debuts, so sit tight.

Rise of the Ronin

The Bakumatsu is a focal point of Japanese history, with the Tokugawa Shogunate falling and the Meiji Restoration underway. Team Ninja’s upcoming action RPG casts the player as a ronin who can choose their side and develop bonds with characters like Sakamoto Ryoma and Shoin Yoshida. Depending on those decisions, the story changes, and certain factions may oppose you.

From a gameplay standpoint, Rise of the Ronin offers a massive open world with a grappling hook, glider and horseback used for traversal. While you can rely on a katana to fight (and even dual-wield them), there are also spears and firearms like rifles and pistols to take down enemies. Of course, this is from the team behind Nioh, so deflecting a fire arrow back at an enemy and setting your sword ablaze for elemental attacks is a thing. Rise of the Ronin launches on March 22nd for PS5.

The Wolf Among Us 2

Bigby Wolf has had a rough one, with the last gameplay reveal for The Wolf Among Us 2 showcasing his anger issues. Then again, that rings true for the sequel’s development, especially with recent reports that most of the development team was laid off. We’re still looking forward to the narrative adventure, especially with its development shifting to Unreal Engine 5 and all episodes developed together. It’s planned for launch in 2024 on Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and PC.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

Years of rumors later, Konami finally announced its first Metal Gear Solid remake – Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Co-developed with Virtuous on Unreal Engine 5 and promising a “faithful recreation” with “evolved gameplay,” it’s coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. It’s reportedly coming out this year so we can’t wait to see how it pans out.

Silent Hill 2

Among its remakes of beloved IP, Konami announced one for Silent Hill 2, developed by Bloober Team on Unreal Engine 5. With composer Akira Yamaoka and art director/creature designer Masahiro Ito involved, there’s plenty of hype, but the past year hasn’t seen too many updates. The developer said things are “progressing smoothly and in accordance with our schedule”, but it’s up to Konami to share more information. With no loading screens on PS5, rebuilt combat and set pieces, and the “best facial expressions” in the franchise’s history, Silent Hill 2 could be the long-awaited revival that the series needs. The game is reportedly coming out this year.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Over 100 hours of gameplay, 150 GB of installation space needed, side content double that of the main quest, a “vast and expansive” world map and even some new episodes for characters like Rufus – Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth isn’t messing around. The scary thing is that this isn’t even scratching the surface of what the remake offers. While many are doubtless excited about the story and its potential directions or the ability to play as Sephiroth (in certain situations), we’re keen on getting lost in Rebirth’s world when it launches on February 29th for PS5.

Marvel’s Blade

Perhaps the most surprising announcement to close out 2023 is Marvel’s Blade, developed by Arkane Lyon. Though it’s “just begun” development and hasn’t revealed any gameplay, it’s hyped as a third-person action adventure with the famous hunter battling vampires in a quarantine zone in Paris. It may be a while before we learn more, but Bethesda has interestingly refused to comment on its Xbox Series X/S exclusivity.

Marvel’s Wolverine

Insomniac Games has delved into darker territory with Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, but Marvel’s Wolverine aims for an even more mature tone. Helmed by creative director Brian Horton and game director Cameron Christian of Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales fame, it’s rumored to launch in 2025 for PS5, with semi-open world elements and Madripoor as a location. If nothing else, the fact that Walt D. Williams, writer of Spec Ops: The Line, is penning the narrative should make this an even better proposition.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2

As the long-awaited follow-up to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Hellblade 2 sees Senua venturing to Viking Iceland to presumably fight the Northmen. Based on the latest trailer, combat looks as hard-hitting and visceral as ever, while the brutality (and gorgeous visuals) is on another level. Between overwhelming threats and the Furies’ voices, Senua has her work cut out. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 launches in 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC, though it’s implied to arrive later in the year.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Speaking of long-awaited, GSC Game World’s S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is nearly upon us, launching in Q1 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC. With the developer facing innumerable challenges due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it’s incredible to see the sequel delivering such fidelity while sticking to the survival horror of its predecessors. As a S.T.A.L.K.E.R. in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, you’re again hunting for artifacts, surviving against radiation, Anomalies and other hazards in a massive and seamless open world. With over 30 weapon types, branching paths and multiple endings, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl promises extensive replay value with its 40-hour story.

Star Wars Outlaws

Star Wars titles have been having a good run lately, and Massive Entertainment’s Star Wars Outlaws looks to offer the biggest adventure yet. As space scoundrel Kay Vess, players can ally with different factions, take on tasks or double-cross whomever they please en route to pulling off the galaxy’s biggest heist. Third-person, cover-based shooting, large planets with speeder action, space combat – there’s plenty of action to go around. However, Outlaws’ biggest strength is arguably the branching dialogue and choices, which have long-standing consequences. It’s out in 2024 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Death Stranding 2

The other big Kojima Productions title in the works is Death Stranding 2 or, more accurately, DS2, which is a working title. Norman Reedus returns as an older Sam Porter Bridges, Léa Seydoux once again portrays Fragile and Troy Baker returns as what many assume to be Higgs. Elle Fanning and Shioli Kutsuna are also part of the cast, but little else is known, aside from it not being a “regular sequel” and utilizing “new techniques” for “more photorealistic CG” per director Hideo Kojima. Though a release window for PS5 hasn’t been announced, rumors indicate it could launch in 2024.

The Alters

11 bit Studios is known for its survival titles that require morally questionable decisions, but The Alters, launching in 2024 for PC, is on an entirely different scale. As Jan Dolski, you roam a doomed planet in a massive base, avoiding killer rays from the sun to eventually go home. It’s not an easy task, so he creates alters, versions of himself with unique backgrounds and personalities suited for different tasks. Not only do you have to interact and bond with them, but also locate vital resources to survive. So far, the prospect of managing different versions of Jan – some satisfied with their existence and others not – The Alters looks to be a trippy but solid survival title.

Kingdom Hearts 4

Just when you thought Kingdom Hearts 3 had a Simple and Clean ending – which, let’s be honest, no one believes – Square Enix is working on Kingdom Hearts 4. It’s developed on Unreal Engine 5 and thus far announced only for PS5, with Sora awakening in the world of Quadratum. You’ll still wield a Keyblade to battle enemies, and Disney characters like Donald and Goofy also make their return. What’s going on, and will Sora embark on another multi-world-spanning adventure? Yes, on the latter, but for everything else, we’ll find out when director/artist/writer Tetsuya Nomura has more to share.

Next Mass Effect

Dragon Age: Dreadwolf fans have plenty of news to look forward to in Summer 2024, but the next Mass Effect is still in pre-production. BioWare did release an in-engine teaser, though, which featured what could be a new protagonist along with returning races like the Geth, Asari and Salarians, but very little else is known. Even worse is that it’s allegedly not launching until 2029. Nevertheless, we’ll wait, if only to see Commander Shepard potentially return.

Max Payne 1 and 2 Remake

Even after launching the excellent Alan Wake 2, Remedy Entertainment isn’t slowing down. Along with Control 2, a co-op spinoff codenamed Condor and the recently rebooted Kestrel, it’s also remaking Max Payne 1 and 2. Published by Rockstar Games, it’s coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, and will feature a triple-A budget. With a promise to “bring the story, action and atmosphere of the original games back to players in new ways,” Max Payne 1 and 2 Remake looks like an instant hit. Of course, when it will launch remains to be seen, so again, we’ll have to sit tight.

Nivalis

ION LANDS garnered some attention with its cyberpunk adventure Cloudpunk, and it’s returning to the same setting for something more ambitious. Nivalis involves managing a food place, starting from a stall and eventually progressing to a restaurant or club. On top of managing business, you can interact with different customers and friends, explore the city, customize your home and see what life is like in the gorgeous voxel art city. Nivalis is planned to launch in 2024 for PC.

Exodus

Archetype Entertainment’s Exodus is a sci-fi action adventure RPG for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, featuring Matthew McConaughey, and right away, the resemblance to Mass Effect is uncanny. Interestingly, it features Time Dilation as a core mechanic – you need to steal technology from the Celestials for the sake of humanity’s place in the universe. However, a journey that feels like days could take several years, and you’ll need to deal with the consequences. We still need to see more gameplay and how the Time Dilation works, but it’s intriguing if nothing else.

Perfect Dark

What is happening with Perfect Dark, Xbox Game Studios’ reboot of the acclaimed first-person shooter (singular – the prequel? Never happened) for PC and Xbox Series X/S? Your guess is as good as ours. We know that The Initiative is working on it with Crystal Dynamics, but that’s officially it. Unofficially, there are reports of development troubles, including development restarting from scratch in 2022 with Unreal Engine 5 as the main engine. It’s rumored to be about two to three years off and may have an episodic release. Playing as Joanna Dark on a new sci-fi spy fantasy is still enticing, but more details are desperately needed.

Silent Hill f

The new wave of Silent Hill is off to a somewhat rough start with Silent Hill: Ascension and its interactive shenanigans. However, along with the Silent Hill 2 remake, there’s also Silent Hill f to look forward to. Set in rural Japan during the 1960s, it’s a new mainline title with Ryukishi07 of Umineko and Higurashi fame writing the story (which is an enticing prospect unto itself). Combined with artist Kera (Spirit Hunter NG), it should make for a visceral horror experience unlike anything the series has seen.

Silent Hill: Townfall

In the hopefully more immediate future is Silent Hill: Townfall, developed by No Code of Stories Untold fame with Konami co-producing. The developer’s other titles are more narrative and adventure-focused, but it’s created some incredibly unorthodox and involving horror. Job listings indicate that Townfall is developed on Unreal Engine 5, while rumors state it’s the first in an anthology series. Whatever the case, we need to see more soon.

Wonder Woman

Monolith Productions hasn’t released a full-fledged game since 2017 with Middle-earth: Shadow of War. Nevertheless, we still love the Nemesis System, and it’s coming back for Wonder Woman, which is in the works for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. Outside of being an open-world single-player action-adventure title (that isn’t being designed for live service, assures WB Games), nothing else is known. A gameplay reveal in 2024 feels like a safe bet – hopefully, the launch isn’t too far behind.

Project Polaris (The Witcher 4)

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains one of the more beloved titles in gaming, and it’s finally getting a sequel. Well, more accurately, it’s getting a new trilogy, starting with Project Polaris. Currently in pre-production on Unreal Engine 5, it has almost 330 developers working on it and promises to be an “excellent entry point” for new players. A player-created Witcher? Ciri’s return? New regions to explore? Whatever the case may be, we’re excited.

Project Orion (Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel)

Given the success of Cyberpunk 2077’s revival and Phantom Liberty, we’re even more hyped for Project Orion. Directed by Gabe Amatangelo, who also helmed the expansion, it’s developed on Unreal Engine 5 and promises to showcase “the full power and potential of the universe.” It has a ways to go, but despite the challenge, lead quest designer Pawel Sasko says there’s “so much space to actually do something awesome.” Time will tell where it’s set and whether it’ll even be first-person, so sit tight.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

505 Games and Avantgarden SRL are releasing a remake of Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons on February 28th for Xbox Series X/S, PC and PS5. With revamped visuals, a live orchestra for its re-recorded soundtrack and local co-op support, it promises to maintain the original’s emotional impact. Those who played the 2013 version can also look forward to some “new secrets.”

Earthblade

With gorgeous pixel art, Metroid-style exploration and promised “countless mysteries”, Earthblade is the next promising game from Celeste developer Extremely OK Games. As Névoa, players return to a ruined Earth and investigate what happened. There are potential allies to meet, enemies to fight and massive environments to explore, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Last Sentinel

Announced at The Game Awards 2023, Last Sentinel drew some attention for its futuristic version of Tokyo, divided between the old and new world. It’s an open-world title developed on Unreal Engine 5, led by Steve C. Martin of Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption fame. Not much else is known, but it’s worth waiting for gameplay footage, at the very least.

No Rest for the Wicked

What do you get when mixing isometric action RPG combat, a dark medieval realm and Moon Studios’ penchant for gorgeous visuals? You get No Rest for the Wicked, launching in early access for PC in Q1 2024 but also coming to Xbox Series X/S and PS5. It sees a king dead and the Pestilence sweeping the land. You’re tasked with wiping it out, visiting unique locations with different challenges and secrets, and building up a quaint town for respite. Online co-op for up to four players is included, but as a single-player title, it looks fantastic.

Black Myth: Wukong

Launching on August 20th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, Black Myth: Wukong is an action RPG based on Journey to the West, and sees Sun Wukong battling against the forces of evil. Along with his signature staff, which is customizable, players can utilize three different stances depending on the need and unleash powerful Skills. You can also expect over 100 unique enemies and hidden bosses to test your might against.

Light No Fire

Already dubbed “No Man’s Earth,” Light No Fire is an incredibly ambitious new title from Hello Games, which aims to provide a survival sandbox RPG on a planet the size of Earth. It’s completely open, with various biomes to explore, enemies to battle and resources to collect while players learn more about the planet and its state. There’s the prospect of building communities and settlements with other players, but you can also cross the oceans, climb mountains and explore on your own. Currently confirmed for PC, Light No Fire doesn’t have a release window, but we’ll probably learn more about it in the coming year.

Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League

Much as one may decry the co-op component of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, it still promises a narrative-focused adventure for solo players. As King Shark, Harley Quinn, Deadshot and Captain Boomerang, players must fight back against Brainiac’s invasion and his mind control of the Justice League. Combat is more shooter-focused with some juggle mechanics and extensive mobility, while Metropolis is a wide-open playground to mess around in. Ideally, this all coalesces into a memorable story when it launches on February 2nd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

The Elder Scrolls 6

Did Bethesda have to announce The Elder Scrolls 6 at E3 2018, especially with early development announced this past August? Probably not. Is it at least five years away, as Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer believes? Most likely. Is there anything known about it, except for the title and that it’s using Creation Engine 2? Well, former design director Bruce Nesmith confirmed it has a similar leveling system as Skyrim, so that’s something. Despite the mixed reactions from players to Starfield, it’s a new Elder Scrolls title, which is still a big deal.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered

Naughty Dog has cancelled its standalone multiplayer title for The Last of Us, but it’s still going forward with its single-player projects. The Last of Us Part 3 is rumored, but in the meantime, newcomers and long-time fans can check out The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered. Launching on January 19th for PS5, it features three Lost Levels, developer commentary, new features, visual improvements, and No Return, a roguelike survival mode. It’s a $10 upgrade for PS4 owners, making it a perfect way to revisit the classic.

Alone in the Dark

Alone in the Dark has its fair share of reboots in the past to abject failure. THQ Nordic’s upcoming title seems closer in overall tone, with Edward Carnby venturing to Derceto Manor in the 1920s to investigate the disappearance of Emily Hartwood’s uncle. Both characters are playable and offer unique campaigns (with the full story revealed after completing both), and the manor harbors all kinds of dark secrets and horrors. Alone in the Dark launches on March 20th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC.

Hades 2

Supergiant Games’ Hades 2 finally goes into early access in Q2 2024. The full extent of its content is unknown, you can expect the same level of the evolving narrative over multiple runs. There will also be dozens of voice characters, Boons, new locations and systems, and much more to sink dozens of hours into. Whether you’re a fan of roguelites or not, Hades 2 warrants a look. Early access is coming to PC first, but expect console versions to be announced in the future.

Little Nightmares 3

Supermassive Games is in charge of the next title of the acclaimed horror platforming series, which launches in 2024 for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch. Starring newcomers Low and Alone, players journey through the Spiral, part of The Nowhere, battling hostile creatures and even bigger threats – like Monster Baby – searching for a way out. Full of the same platforming action and tense stealth, Little Nightmares 3 also offers online co-op, though you can play the entire game solo.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

The Prince isn’t quite back just yet, but Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown does offer some fast-paced 2.5D side-scrolling action combined with deep Metroid-style exploration. Players control Sargon, part of The Immortals, who must save Prince Ghassan. What appears to be a routine mission spirals out of control as Sargon gains time manipulation powers and fights to save the kingdom despite being marked as an enemy. As the first mainline title in the series since The Forgotten Sands in 2010, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a long time coming. It’s out on January 18th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch, with a demo coming on January 11th.

Tom Clancy’s The Division 3

As if Massive Entertainment didn’t have enough under its belt, Tom Clancy’s The Division 3 will be happening. Nothing is known about it, but Julian Gerighty, creative director of The Division 2 and now executive producer for the brand, says the team is focusing on “refinement” and “pushing the quality bar consistently forward.” As always, we’ll need to wait for more details, but if its single-player experience is like any of the previous games, it should be fun.

Fable

Announced in July 2020 for Xbox Series X/S and PC, Fable is a reboot of Lionhead Studios’ action RPG series. Developed by Playground Games, it received a new trailer with a Jack and the Beanstalk-style scenario featuring Richard Ayoade of The IT Crowd. Lead lightning artist Lukas Koelz claims it was captured on Xbox Series X, and while raw gameplay is still pending, it’s not bad in terms of visual fidelity. All that’s left to do is wait and watch for more updates.

Control 2

Of all the games with a lack of information floating around, Control 2 is perhaps top of the list. It’s developed on Remedy’s Northlight engine and is currently in the proof-of-concept stage. However, with Alan Wake 2 senior gameplay designer Leonid Stepanov moving over to the project and the former setting up its story, there’s plenty of reason to be excited. It’s coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, though a release window is still unknown.

Blade Runner 2033: Labyrinth

As the first Blade Runner title since the 1997 adventure game, Blade Runner 2033: Labyrinth is set between the original film and Blade Runner 2049. It’s after the Blackout, which caused Replicant production to cease (not permanently, of course, given future events). While the gameplay has yet to be showcased, the aesthetic is undeniably Blade Runner and has us excited for the dark dystopian possibilities.

Clockwork Revolution

inXile Entertainment, which released the incredible Wasteland 3, has resurfaced with a brand new role-playing game, this time in first-person. Clockwork Revolution is coming to Xbox Series X/S and PC and focuses on the steampunk city of Avalon. By traveling back in time, players learn how the location came to be and can choose to change things. How this will impact the world is ultimately up to you. The stylish aesthetic is already enough, but inXile’s narrative approach and complex choices are the main appeal.