Watch Dogs Legion on PS4 and PS5 is also worth trying out, as are Dishonored 2 and Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, even if they’re PS4-only. Marvelous’s Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin on PS4 is also a good addition, providing farming and side-scrolling hack-and-slash action. Other PS4 farming titles include Rune Factory 4 Special and Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town.

The latter allows downloading the game and its Expansion Pass Set or streaming the base experience. Fans of Tomb Raider can experience the entire modern trilogy with Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition, Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration and Shadow of the Tomb Raider playable on PS4.

Those who want some horror can check out The Evil Within 2 on PS4 and the action RPG Thymesia on PS5. There’s also Bus Simulator 21: Next Stop on PS4 and PS5, which is its own horror when things go wrong. Wolfenstein: Youngblood, Rain World, and Conan Exiles round out the PS4 offerings, while Lake and Soundfall are playable on PS4 and PS5. Stay tuned for more details on the PlayStation Classics available with Premium shortly.

Contrary to all the suspicious vibes that it may give, Lake is really just about delivering the mail and getting to know the locals. As you learn more about them, you can spend time together after work and forge friendships, maybe even help out some odd jobs. Of course, if enjoying a nice book or movie at home is your thing, then that’s also possible.

Meredith is only in Providence Oaks for two weeks though so based on one’s decisions, they can either stay in the town or return to life in the city. Lake is noted to be optimized for PS5 with the launch trailer being in 4K/60 FPS. A physical version is also available courtesy of Perp Games and features the base game along with an A3 map of Providence Oaks.

The story focuses on Meredith Weiss who takes a break from the city to visit the town for two weeks. Taking over as the mail carrier for her father, she proceeds to deliver the mail and interacts with the locals. There are no cell phones or internet so your activities will include hanging out with friends, helping people, or just staying at home to read a book or watch a movie.

Eventually, the player must make a choice on staying or leaving (though there is no right or wrong result). Aside from the 60 FPS frame rate in the trailer, Lake’s PS5 optimization is yet to be detailed. Stay tuned for more information en route to its release this Friday.

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With every entertaining and well-designed open world game, there are several that feel mundane, awkward or terribly put together. Let’s take a look at 10 of the most boring open world titles.

Ghost Recon Breakpoint

If there’s one thing that stuck out the most when first playing Ghost Recon Breakpoint at launch, it’s how utterly dead Auroa felt. There was no seemingly no semblance of normal day-to-day life with environments that felt sterile and samey. Sure, the setting had a lot to do with it, whether it was the whole “island belonging to a military contractor” or the occupation by Colonel Walker and the Wolves forcing much of the populace into hiding. But it seems like this was all done just to reinforce the Skell Tech drones as the true indigenous life (and it doesn’t help that the Wolves were fairly disposable as well). Combine all of this with boring activities and a terrible storyline, not to mention tons of bugs and copy-paste outposts, and you’ll beg for Wildlands’ Bolivia. New paid content and updates including the return of AI squadmates helped improve the overall experience but it was a disaster at launch.

Halo Infinite Multiplayer

Yes, it’s technically a beta but Halo Infinite’s free to play multiplayer component is content-complete ahead of the campaign’s launch in December. And while much can be said about progression, the extensive monetization or the horrid Armor Cores system, the gameplay is simply exquisite. It plays like the perfect mix of Halo’s classic gun play and movement combined with solid power-ups (that aren’t overbearing) and weapon balance. Map design ranges from good to great, and the extensive polish is a sight to behold in light of the competition. There’s still a ways to go but in terms of fun, Halo Infinite’s multiplayer is already top-notch.

Along with delivering the mail, players can interact with all kinds of different characters, explore the environment, indulge in different musings based on Meredith’s past and much more. After work, it’s possible to hang out with people, stay at home and chill or reunite with long-time childhood friends. Based on one’s choices, the story will branch accordingly and offer unique outcomes though there are no right or wrong results.

Lake is currently out for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC but it will come to other platforms later. Stay tuned for more details on the same in the future.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

As the follow-up to Pathfinder: Kingmaker, Wrath of the Righteous promises much higher stakes as the player ventures to the Worldwound to fight off hordes of demons arriving through the rift. Along with leading an army to battle with new tactical options, there are 10 unique companions that will fight alongside you. This is on top of 25 classes, 12 races and tons of different abilities and customization options that the classic Pathfinder combat that fans know and love (this time with a turn-based option at launch). Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous releases on September 2^nd for PC.

WRC 10

Despite Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown being a year away, Nacon has WRC 10 releasing on September 2^nd worldwide (September 7^th for North America). Along with the Croatia Rally and Rally de Catalunya, the sequel will feature numerous historical cars like the Audi Quattro and Lancia Delta Group A to celebrate the World Rally Championship’s 50^th anniversary. Considering the jump in quality that last year’s iteration offered, it may be worth checking out WRC 10 when it releases for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4 and PS5 in the coming days.

F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch

Set in Torch City following the Machine Legion’s invasion several years ago, players control Rayton, a former soldier trying to rescue his friend. At his disposal are a mechanical Power Fist, Whip and Drill which can be used to pull off some crazy combos. With a grungy but beautiful aesthetic and tons of areas to explore, F.I.S.T.: Forged in Shadow Torch should be worth checking out for genre fans when it releases on September 7^th for PS4, PS5 and PC.

Sonic Colors: Ultimate

It’s not everyday that a good Sonic game gets a remastered re-release but 2010’s Sonic Colors is thankfully getting another opportunity to shine. The Ultimate version is out on September 7^th for Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC and PS4, and sees Sonic and Tails traveling to Doctor Eggman’s Incredible Interstellar Amusement Park to rescue the mysterious Wisps. Along with offering a mix of 2.5D side-scrolling and fast-paced 3D platforming, various mechanics like Boost and drifting are available. On top of this, Sonic can use eight different abilities from the Wisps, like drilling through the ground and transforming into a laser. In terms of improvements, expect a higher frame rate and resolution, the Jade Ghost Wisp, a re-recorded OST and Rival Rush for racing against Metal Sonic

The Artful Escape

First showcased in March 2017, The Artful Escape is finally nearing release after seeing numerous delays throughout the years. The musical platforming adventure sees one Francis Vendetti set to make his debut under the shadow of his legendary uncle and thus struggling to find his own identity. Thus does he embark on a psychedelic new journey through various musical landscapes, using his guitar to platform and battle foes. With a gorgeous art-style and sound-tracked effused with epic themes, The Artful Escape could end up being an underrated classic when it launches on September 9^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC and iOS.

Life is Strange: True Colors

Life is Strange returns and this time, empathy is your superpower. It’s a little more complicated than that for True Colors’ protagonist Alex Chen who reunites with her brother Gabe in Haven Springs. The scenic beauty and spirit of the community is ultimately unsettled when Gabe passes away from an accident. With the ability to read people’s emotions as different colors, Alex goes about investigating his death. Life is Strange: True Colors is a full release instead of being broken into episodes and is out on September 10^th for Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Google Stadia.

Lost in Random

Lost in Random appears, at first, to be an action adventure title with a Tim Burton-esque aesthetic, centering on Even as she explores the Kingdom of Random to save her sister Odd. However, everything in Random is determined by games and Even must take part in game board-style battles to prevail. She’ll have Dicey on hand to help though – attacking enemies will power its abilities and unleash unique cards, whether it’s explosives or barriers. Out on September 10^th, Lost in Random will be available for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.

NBA 2K22

Another year, another NBA 2K title and while I’m personally not a fan of the series microtransaction-laden gameplay, there is quite a bit that’s new in NBA 2K22. Gameplay-wise, precision jump shots, blocking and more are being changed; MyNBA returns with its customizable features (only on Xbox Series X/S and PS5 though) while MyWBNA is being introduced; and MyCareer’s The City is even larger while Hidden Talents provides alternate ventures like fashion and hip-hop. PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC players aren’t being swept aside entirely either thanks to the addition of the 2K Cruise, which offers unique Excursions and events in various locations. NBA 2K22 launches on September 10^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch so we won’t have to wait long to see how much it improves.

Tales of Arise

The Tales series returns with its biggest, most epic title to date in Tales of Arise. The story sees the denizens of Rena subjugating Dahna, enslaving its people and exploiting their resources. As Alphen, a Dahnan man without any memories, players team up with Shionne of Rena and embark on a journey to free the oppressed. Along with meeting other party members and traveling the world, players will utilize new skills like Boost Strike and Counter Edge in the revamped combat system. Activities like fishing, farming and more are also available along with the return of skits. Tales of Arise releases on September 10^th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PC and PS5, and promises to be about as long as Tales of Berseria (which is a good thing).

Deathloop

Ever get that feeling of deja vu? For hitman Colt Vahn, it only felt like yesterday when he arrived on Blackreef to take out the Visionaries, a mysterious group harnessing the island’s technology to party eternally. It’s up to Colt to kill all of his targets before midnight, utilizing a mix of stealth, abilities and firearms before the loop resets. In the midst of all of this is agent Julianna, either controlled by AI or another player, who seeks to protect the loop (and mess with Colt as much as possible). With Arkane’s unique brand of sandbox gameplay and a rocking aesthetic, Deathloop promises to be a fun spin on the roguelite genre when it releases on September 14^th for PS5 and PC.

Aragami 2

Much like the original, stealth and shadow control are key in Lince Works’ Aragami 2. This time around though, players have more freedom and opportunities to sneak around the world, playing alone or in three-person squads in co-op. A variety of powers and abilities are available while combat has been improved to be more skill-focused (though it’s still inherently riskier than stealth). Extensive customization, improved visuals and a more effective story should make Aragami 2 a cut above its predecessor when it releases on September 17^th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and PC.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits

Numerous delays haven’t dulled the beauty of Ember Lab’s upcoming action adventure title and it’s finally releasing on September 21^st for PS4, PS5 and PC. Kena: Bridge of Spirits follows spirit guide Kena as she travels to a decrepit village and looks to ferry the spirits of its deceased to the afterlife. Along the way, Kena will meet small spirits called the Rot who will help solve puzzles and fight off enemies. With a soothing animated aesthetic and solid gameplay, Kena: Bridge of Spirits is looking very appealing.

Lake

Lake, an indie adventure from developer Gamious, looks to take players on a more grounded kind of escape when it releases on September 1^st. As Meredith Weiss, you venture to Providence Oaks in Oregon for two weeks, taking a sabbatical from your old software development job to deliver the mail. Talk to and hang out with the different residents, or simply stay at home to read; experience branching storylines and ultimately determine your path in life. If a chill adventure game sounds good to you, then Lake may be worth checking out when it comes to Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC.

Diablo 2: Resurrected

After the failure of Warcraft 3: Reforged (not to mention tons of controversy at Activision-Blizzard), Diablo 2 is next in line to be remastered. The visuals have been improved tremendously while still keeping true to the original’s aesthetic as players explore Sanctuary as one of seven classes to defeat the forces of evil. Support for 4K resolution, cross-progression and quality of life features like auto pick-up for gold and Shared Stash tabs make this a lot more inviting for today’s players but it’s still the classic action RPG that fans grew up with. Diablo 2: Resurrected releases on September 23^rd for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch.

Sable

Another interesting title in the “chill adventure” genre is Shedworks’ Sable, which releases on September 23^rd for Xbox Series X/S and PC. Boasting gorgeous visuals, the story centers on Sable as she ventures out into the world to find a mask and complete her clan’s rite of passage. She’ll traverse dunes on her customizable hoverbike, investigate strange ruins and ultimately learn more about the mysterious world while forging her own path.

Death Stranding Director’s Cut

The journey of Sam and B.B. came to a relatively satisfying conclusion when Death Stranding released last year. However, the Director’s Cut – which launches on September 24^th for PS5 – proves that there’s still room for improvement. It adds numerous new tools, like a Buddy Bot that can carry Sam and thrusters for safe landings when jumping from high places; the new Fragile Circuit for races, complete with time trials and leaderboards; a new Firing Range with practice and Ranked Drills; replays for boss fights; and some new story content that promises more stealth-based action. This is in addition to new graphics modes like upscaled 4K/60 FPS and native 4K, support for the DualSense’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers and an option for PS4 players to upgrade to the Director’s Cut Digital Deluxe Edition on PS5 for just $10.

Lost Judgment

What defines justice? Former lawyer turned private detective Takayuki Yagami seeks to answer this while delving into a strange murder. Lost Judgment sees players venturing to Isezaki Ijincho to go undercover in a school and while there are activities like dancing, drone combat and boxing, themes of bullying and abuse also come to light. Overall, the sequel improves on pretty much every aspect of the original, adding a new combat Style, parkour for platforming, more in-depth stealth mechanics, better chase sequences and much more. It arrives on September 24^th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and Xbox One.

New World

Even with so many delays over the years – including a recent one from August to September – enthusiasm for Amazon’s New World is still strong. The MMO takes a somewhat different direction from its competition, focusing on the interactions between the three factions on Aeternum Island. Though the island has its own unique mysteries and PvE content, players will spend time creating settlements, battling those from other factions and establishing their own foothold. It’s out on September 28^th for PC with a beta on September 9^th but whether it can maintain its momentum after launch remains to be seen.

Hot Wheels Unleashed

Milestone’s Hot Wheels Unleashed may not be the most realistic-looking racer but it is looking to be the best possible Hot Wheels title ever made. With over 60 cars, from real-world vehicles to fantasy offerings like the Batmobile and Knight Rider, it offers a variety of twisting, turning tracks set in real-world environments. Players can also partake in the track builder and create their own unique courses, or go on online to challenge players (though offline split-screen is also available). Hot Wheels Unleashed arrives on September 27^th for Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

Xuan Yuan Sword 7

Released last October for PC, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is coming to PS4 in September and offers hack and slash RPG action with the backdrop of Chinese mythology as Taishi Zao battles monsters and  seeks to unravel the mystery behind a strange bamboo slip. Along with creating unique techniques, players can improve their armor and weapons while leveraging the fast-paced combat to dominate foes. As a somewhat off-beat option, it may be worth checking out when it releases on September 31^st.

To showcase how a typical day for Meredith would play out, a new gameplay walkthrough has been released with director Dylan Nagel providing additional details. We learn more about the radio man, who’s seemingly less nice in person, and Meredith’s musings which involve commenting on her surroundings. While you can just go about delivering the mail on schedule, the player can also stop in the middle of a forest and converse with the nearest lumberjack.

Depending on Meredith’s decisions, the story will branch accordingly and eventually, she’ll have to decide whether to stay in Providence Oaks or return to the city. Though there aren’t supposed to be any right or wrong choices, we’ll see how this all plays out when Lake releases on September 1st.

Lake takes place in Providence Oaks, Oregon where protagonist Meredith Weiss is filling in for her father to deliver mail to the townsfolk. For the next two weeks, Meredith will interact with various people, including her best friend Kay, and maybe even find love (though it’s implied that other events are afoot). Eventually, she’ll have to decide whether to return to her software job in the city or stay in Providence Oaks.

Along with delivering the mail, players can also partake in a number of activities after work, whether it’s hanging out or helping the neighbors. The branching narrative promises no right or wrong answers, though it remains to be seen where things can go based on one’s choices. Stay tuned for more details on Lake in the coming weeks.

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