Upcoming Games of 2016

As I mention over here 2016 is looking like a monster year for computer gaming. Apart from the original titles slated for release it seems like half the major titles for 2015 got pushed back to 2016. There is a tidal wave of great looking gaming bearing down on us. So how do you navigate through this confusing maelstrom of choice? Simple, just lock onto the glorious light of my opinion and let it guide you through the darkness.

I’d hoped to get this finished mid January but I was delayed by laziness and a rather virulent dose of the flu (new season of Diablo 3 and most recently XCOM 2 didnt help). As it is a few entries on the list may have already come out. I may also have forgotten something obvious, if you think I have feel free to let me know (same goes for any egregious layout/content errors).

While it should go without saying, I’ll say it anyway. These are the games I’m looking forward to. While the list is long it isn’t just a list of everything coming out in 2016. I’m aware its missing a number of major releases (e.g Mafia 3, Mirror’s Edge 2, Far Cry Primal, etc.) That’s because I’m either a) not interested in them, b) think they’ll be shit or c) all of the above. Or I suppose d) I don’t have the system. I do not own an Xbox One and have zero interest in changing that. I also don’t own a Wii U, nor will I be buying a NX when it releases. Honestly considering that a lot of the niche titles I owned consoles for are now (thankfully) getting ported to PC it’s really only exclusives that make owning a console worthwhile to me.

This list was tough to put together, well what was tough was not shoving nearly all of it into Anticipated Games. To the point where I had to add a more definitive category, Games I am going to buy, just to split the list up a bit if nothing else.

Games I have already bought
Games I am going to buy
Anticipated Games
Games I’ll probably play
Game’s I’m not likely to play but may
Fever dreams

Games I have already bought

Well the title says it all. These are games that I already own, whether that’s because a) I got this list out a month late and they’re already out, b) I’ve pre-ordered them, c) bought them via Early Access, d) backed them on Kickstarter, etc. Needless to say if my anticipation was enough to pry money from my cold arguably alive hands then its fair to say I’m really looking forward to them.

Dragons Dogma

(15/01/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Set in a huge open world, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen presents a rewarding action combat experience. Players embark on an epic adventure in a rich, living world with three AI companions, known as Pawns. These partners fight independently, demonstrating prowess and ability that they have developed based on traits learned from each player. PC users can share these Pawns online and reap rewards of treasure, tips and strategy hints for taking down the terrifying enemies. Pawns can also be borrowed when specific skills are needed to complete various challenging quests.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: Dragon’s Dogma was one of my favourite games on the PS3 and my favourite action RPG ever. While the story was workmanlike with the odd enjoyable twist the combat and the world were amazing. The combat system was simply exciting, the superb animation, the openness of your approach to each encounter, and numerous other elements all combined to create a real sense of immersion. The way the world was presented only added to this. The world felt like it existed beyond your character, that your character was just a resident in it not the reason for its existence. The only real downsides to the game were all technical in nature. The PS3 simply couldn’t handle the game, which wont be the course with the PC version, so with that out of the way there’s no reason not to buy it. I can’t wait to dive back into this game with drastically improved performance, better image quality and whatever cool mods people come up with.

Darkest Dungeon

(19/01/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Darkest Dungeon is a challenging gothic RPG about the stresses of dungeon crawling. You will lead a band of heroes on a perilous side-scrolling descent, dealing with a prodigious number of threats to their bodily health, and worse, a relentless assault on their mental fortitude! Five hundred feet below the earth you will not only fight unimaginable foes, but famine, disease, and the stress of the ever-encroaching dark. Darkest Dungeon focuses on the humanity and psychological vulnerability of the heroes and asks: What emotional toll does a life of adventure take? Darkest Dungeon is not a game where every hero wins the day with shiny armor and a smile. It is a game about hard trade-offs, nearly certain demise, and heroic acts. [/spoiler]

Why I want it: As with the other games in this section this is a game I already own. Though I was certainly looking forward to the full release (which I still havent had a shot with). However the things I was looking forward to about this game are not the things I enjoy about playing it. I was looking forward to something that used a Lovecraftian approach to sanity to inform its gameplay mechanics. What I got was something that used a Call of Cthulhu approach to sanity to inform its gameplay. Not necessarily a bad thing, but certainly a different one. That said, this is a great roguelike that oozes atmosphere. Even the Early Access version made it into my Top 10 games of 2015.

XCOM 2

(05/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]XCOM 2 is the sequel to XCOM: Enemy Unknown, the 2012 award-winning strategy game of the year. Earth has changed. Twenty years have passed since world leaders offered an unconditional surrender to alien forces. XCOM, the planet’s last line of defense, was left decimated and scattered. Now, in XCOM 2, the aliens rule Earth, building shining cities that promise a brilliant future for humanity on the surface, while concealing a sinister agenda and eliminating all who dissent from their new order. Only those who live at the edges of the world have a margin of freedom. Here, a force gathers once again to stand up for humanity. Always on the run, and facing impossible odds, the remnant XCOM forces must find a way to ignite a global resistance, and eliminate the alien threat once and for all. [/spoiler]

Why I want it: If I wasnt super manly and on mood stabilisers (for the purposes of this bit) I may have cried when XCOM 2 got delayed. This is probably my most anticipated game of the year so I’m glad its coming out so early in the year. I loved the original X-Com back in the day and was excited about the series reboot. At this point I honestly might prefer the rebooted X-COM over the original. It was a great game, one of the few games where I finished it and dived right back in at a harder difficulty, the expansion (Enemy Within) was equally good and added some great stuff. This game looks like another step forward with a narrative frame that I find more interesting. Only four days to go. This is going to eat my weekend.

Dying Light: The Following

(09/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]
Dying Light: The Following is a massive expansion to Dying Light and the untold chapter of Kyle Crane’s story. Take to a vast new area that will transform your Dying Light experience through new game mechanics, environments and challenges on top of the established core of what made Dying Light a break away success for millions of players around the globe.

NEW MAP | AS BIG AS DYING LIGHT For the first time, you’ll go outside the quarantine zone only to get thrust into a hazardous outback overrun by the infected and populated by pockets of survivors who consider outsiders just as threatening. With a region the size of all original Dying Light maps combined, Dying Light: The Following is choke full of new environments, characters, quests, and secrets to discover.
DRIVABLE VEHICLES | YOUR DEADLIEST WEAPON YET Break pursuits and travel through the quarantine like never before. All-terrain dirt buggies are going to be your key tool to survival and getting around this hazardous countryside. Level up your new Driver Rank skill tree and upgrade your ride to create your most deadly and effective weapon yet. Fully customizable with specialized weapons, attachments, decals and paint jobs, your buggy is going to be your one-way ticket to zombie smashing mayhem.
NEW STORY | WHERE WILL THE OUTBREAK GO? Players will again take the role of Kyle Crane, and will be thrown into Harran’s outback region, rife with the infected, where they’ll encounter a mysterious, and seemingly all-powerful cult, capable of changing the face of Dying Light’s world. To infiltrate and unravel dark secrets of The Following, Kyle Crane will need to face all-new challenges and use his abilities to the limit.
NON-LINEAR PROGRESSION | TRUST IS SOMETHING YOU EARN To get close to the cult and unravel their secrets, players will need to earn the trust of the locals. Through various missions and tasks, players will be able to choose their own path for infiltrating the inner circles of the cultists. As you earn more trust, you’ll be granted more imperative tasks along with access to dark cult secrets which will help unravel the mystery that has taken hold of this once serene land.
[/spoiler]

Why I want it: I was over zombies. But I’m not going to lie. Dying Light looked fun. Every review, stream and gameplay video I saw re-enforced that opinion. As did Sean’s incessant praise for it after he bought it. So I eventually broke down and bought the ultimate edition. Shortly after which they announced a remastered version and the final massive expansion. Both of which I’m getting free which is hard to argue with. So really, while the Following looks like an excellent expansion it’s both it and playing the enhanced original version for the first time that I’m looking forward to.

Dark Souls 3

(12/04/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]As fires fade and the world falls into ruin, journey into a universe filled with more colossal enemies and environments. Fans and newcomers alike will get lost in the games hallmark rewarding gameplay and immersive graphics. Now only embers remain…[/spoiler]

Why I want it: Liking the Souls franchise feels as obligatory and makes as much sense as liking Nirvana in 1993 did. This is the final entry in an amazing series that has become a modern classic. While I’ve enjoyed Dark Souls and Dark Souls II, playtime alone is an embarrassing testament to that. I’ve always felt that Demon Souls was the best entry in the Souls franchise (though Bloodborne, if included would be a very strong contender). I’m hoping that Dark Souls III can supplant it. Genuinely excited to experience the finale of this amazing series.

Grim Dawn

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Enter an apocalyptic fantasy world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, iron is valued above gold and trust is hard earned. This ARPG features complex character development, hundreds of unique items, crafting and quests with choice & consequence.

Grim Dawn is now content and feature complete! Only additional polish remains prior to official release, estimated to be Feb 2016.

Crate Entertainment is a small indie studio founded by the lead gameplay designer of Titan Quest and includes veterans from such companies as Blizzard North, Irrational and Harmonix. Join the Grim Dawn community and provide feedback on the ongoing development of the game. Be among the first to experience our growing world, new features and make your mark by participating in polls and discussions on our forum.
Key Features
Dual Class – Combine any of six distinct classes with over 25 skills and modifiers per class. Base classes include Soldier, Demolitionist, Occultist, Nightblade, Arcanist and Shaman.
Hundreds of Item Skills – Augment your class build with a diverse array of over 250 unique skills granted by items and equipment add-ons.
Collect hundreds of Items – Common, magical, rare, epic and legendary classes of loot. Plus over 20,000 possible magical affix combinations and over 200 rare affixes.
Quests with Choice and Consequence – You will face tough decisions that leave significant impacts upon the world. Strangers on the road, desperate families and even entire villages may live or perish based on your actions. Currently over 35 quests with 75+ lore notes to be collected.
Friendly and Enemy Factions – Earn favor with human factions to unlock additional quest lines, vendor discounts and special faction-based items and augments. Some neutral factions you can be turned into allies but aiding one will make the enemy of another. Hostile factions will remember your deeds and deepen their hatred of you, sending out large packs and elite heroes to hunt you down.
Devotion, an additional layer of skill customization allows you to acquire bonuses and powerful secondary effects for your class skills. These are unlocked from a giant constellation map with points acquired by finding and restoring destroyed or corrupted shrines hidden throughout the world.
Rebuild the World – Help human enclaves survive and flourish by securing vital necessities, rebuilding structures and rescuing survivors who can then lend their services to your cause.
4 Person Multiplayer – Connect with Friends or make new allies in glorious multiplayer. Multiplayer encounters will put your teamwork to the ultimate challenge.
Fast-paced Visceral Combat – Enemy blood spatters, ragdoll physics and satisfying enemy death effects. Smash in doors and fight house to house, leaving a path of demolished furniture in your wake.
Rotatable Camera – If you choose to survey the full beauty of the world and always fight from the most optimal angle. Levels are still designed so that players are not forced to rotate the camera; it is purely optional.
Secrets and Perils Abound – 200+ Enemy heroes and bosses, hand-configured with their own unique arrays of deadly skills. 20+ secret areas hidden behind crumbling walls, hidden gaps and mysterious locked doors. Explode obstacles or repair structures to open new paths.
Rogue-Like Dungeons – Descend into special locked challenge dungeons that require a rare crafted key, where enemy levels increase as you progress and player teleport is disabled. There is no way out except to complete the dungeon or die trying.
Dynamic Weather – The world is brought to life with region-specific climates and a variety of weather effects. A sunny day can cloud over with mild rain showers that builds into a booming thunderstorm. Variable wind gusts blow grass and affect objects like windmills.
Recipe Based Crafting – Collect over 250 crafting recipes that allow you to combine salvaged components into unique crafted items and then, later, use those basic crafted items with higher-tiered recipes to complete items of amazing power.
Reclaim Skill Points – The ability to pay to reclaim points alleviates the fear and frustration of having to make early, uninformed skill choices that could permanently gimp a character.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: I actually kickstarted this in the dark days when Diablo 3 was absolute shite. I’ve held of on playing it until its final release, while the game is feature complete at the moment I want it to be out of early access before I give it a go. Unfortunately that process has taken so long that the reason I originally wanted it no longer exists. With every major patch, from and including 2.0 and Reaper of Souls, Diablo 3 has completely redeemed itself to become one of my most played games. So at this point I’m hoping Grim Dawn will be a fun alternative because I cant see it being a replacement.

Maia

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Maia is space colony building simulator from independent developer Simon Roth. Guide your colonists as they make planetfall on a hostile alien world and do your best to ensure their survival and safety.
Your Mission

Keep your colonists alive by constructing their off-world habitat from the planets crust and sheltering them from a dangerous and often deadly environment. Your task is to gain a foothold on this strange alien world, building facilities where your colonists can live and work, as well as researching the secrets the planet holds.
Build your Base

To keep your colonists alive, you will need to build rooms for specific tasks. Your colonists need a living area, livestock containment and research lab, among other kinds of rooms. To expand your base further, you can use your IMP Robots to clear out areas of the cave your colonists have chosen to inhabit. The detailed simulation of temperature and atmosphere within the base influence the colonists and their actions.
An Enormous Procedurally-Generated World

Twelve light years from earth, the planet 3452C[Maia] circles Tau Ceti. Its atmosphere is toxic, its surface is ravaged by solar flares and meteor blasts and its unstable crust is constantly shifted by earthquakes. Nevertheless, it is habitable and there is room for you to build your base. The world is currently up to 2km x 2km with multiple levels.
Standalone Scenario Missions

As well as the existing sandbox experience, Maia currently has several hours of directed gameplay with many more to come with future updates. Build a sustainable base in Cassiopeia, survive the arctic winter in The Twilight Zone and study Maia’s local ecosystem in SN1572.
Research and Learn from the Planet to Survive

The hard science fiction featured in the game is based on real technology. Because a lot of the equipment is ocassionally reliable 1970s-style technology, the colonists must also spend their time fixing and upgrading items as they build the base. The creatures that inhabit Maia are also based on real world research.
Dangerous Atmosphere

Manage the atmosphere in your colony with carefully placed airlocks, doors and bulkheads. Keep the air flowing or face the horror of painful asphxiation.
Advanced Colonists AI

Your colonists are real people. Simulated right down to their wants and needs. You must try to keep them happy, and perhaps more importantly, sane.
IMP Robots

Let the IMP robots do all the digging for you. Use these robots to clear out areas so you can build more rooms.
First Person Mode

Experience Maia through the eyes of the IMP Robot, Utility Robot and Doors. Traverse around your base doing your robots tasks for them. Explore outside, mine the rock walls for minerals and build Nanofibre Blocks. First person mode introduces a whole new way to observe and interact with the planet Maia. There’s also the option to view Maia through colonist suits and turrets.
Treacherous Weather Patterns

Maia isn’t safe. The weather alone can be deadly. The meteor strikes, seismic activity and solar flares can become risks to your colonists and their equipment.
Genetically Engineered Super Chickens

To survive, your colonists will need to create and manage new sources of food. Introducing the genetically engineered super chicken, the Uberhuhn. With research you will be also able to harness the local fauna and flora to keep the rations stocked.
Custom Engine

Maia’s game engine is custom-made by Simon Roth. Exclusively used in Maia, the custom engine has stunning graphics and visual effects.
Immersive Soundtrack
Maia’s soundtrack is atmospheric and adaptive, it responds to in-game events and draws you into the Sci Fi aesthetic of the game.
The Inspiration
Taking inspiration from games as diverse as Dungeon Keeper, Theme Hospital and The Sims, Maia also draws from 1970s Sci Fi aesthetic and features a healthy dose of dry, dark humour. It’s a mix of strategy, management, construction and terrible deaths on a distant world.
To Come
Campaign missions.
A first person exploration mode.
More indigenous life forms and a functioning food chain.
Somewhat sassy computers
realistic water and lava simulation.
Cats with bee suits.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: The quality of the AI in this game and the depth it adds to the gameplay looks as impressive now as it did when I backed it during its kickstarter. While its available in Early Access I’m looking forward to it too much to risk ruining my opinion of it by playing an incomplete version.

Rising Thunder

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Rising Thunder is based on the premise that fighting games are too complicated. It takes too much time and effort to master the basics, the theory goes, which limits how many players have a chance to learn the game on a strategic level. And the solution here is to remove that first layer of complexity.

In practical terms, that means not requiring players to perform motions and press multiple inputs to pull off special moves. If you want to throw a fireball, you press a button. If you want to perform a super move, you press a button. The most complicated move in the game involves pressing forward or back and pressing a single button.

It’s an idea from longtime fighting game player Seth Killian, who worked at Capcom during Street Fighter 4’s development and recently joined developer Radiant Entertainment to head up Rising Thunder. Radiant is also home to Tom Cannon, who founded the Evo Championship Series tournament, and Tony Cannon, who developed online play middleware GGPO.

Killian says that in every other way, Rising Thunder is a hardcore fighting game like you would expect from something in the Street Fighter series, but he wanted to peel away that layer to allow anyone do what they want when they want. And as a side effect, Killian says it’s the first fighting game he feels comfortable playing with a keyboard rather than an arcade stick.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: Mechanical complexity, in the fighting game genre generally represented by execution requirements, for the sake of mechanical complexity is a pointless barrier to entry, a source of needles elitism and perhaps worst of all, something that obfuscates the real challenge associated with the genre. As such I applaud Rising Thunder’s goal to remove it from the equation. I’ve been enjoying the closed beta a fair bit. On the other hand while technically solid the appearance of the game doesn’t really jibe with what I want out of a fighting game in terms of aesthetics. It feels more like a modern-day Rise of the Robots rip-off than something I’d consider “looks cool”. So I’m torn

Torment Tides of Numenera

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Torment: Tides of Numenera is a game set in the world of Monte Cook’s new tabletop RPG setting, Numenera. Torment continues the thematic legacy of Planescape: Torment, the critically acclaimed role-playing game from 1999 that’s considered by many to be a hallmark for storytelling in computer RPGs. With Torment, we’re creating a rich role-playing experience that explores similar deep, personal themes. [/spoiler]

Why I want it:Kickstarter expectations have begun to feel like deliberate masochism infliced via semi-expected and seemingly endless delays. Sometimes its worth it, sometimes it really isnt. For the moment I still feel the former applies for this. A spiritual sequel to one of the most critically acclaimed CRPG’s in existence is hard not to be excited about.

Games I am going to buy

I want to cut down on games this year. One a month is my hard limit. I fear I shall violate that limit in a manner which would get me arrested if anyone cared about the rights of language constructs. Barring some truly awful bugs or reviews I shall be plonking down my less than hard earned money for the games below.

Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth

(02/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]LOG-IN TO SOLVE A DIGITAL MYSTERY INFECTING THE REAL & DIGITAL WORLDS!
Set in the near future, the line between the real and digital worlds is blurred. Logging into cyberspace is part of everyday life. For one teenager, a harmless on-line chat spawns a chance encounter with a mysterious hacker. Little did this teen know, this brief meeting would lead to a digi-monumental adventure.

In Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth, scan, raise, and train your faithful Digimon companions to battle by your side against a group of hackers.

Do you have what it takes to crack this digi-case?[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Almost certainly going to be the first full price game I buy in 2016. I liked the first and second series of Digimon but it was the third (and best) series where I really got into the series. Luckily Digimon had a slew of really great computer games based on it. I sunk a lot of time into Digimon World and Digimon Card Battle. But while the anime series continued (with variable quality) the games, at least the localised games, no longer appeared. That alone would make me interested in this game. But the game itself looks great, cool looking RPG where you can recruit a huge range of Digimon (which everyone knows is better than Pokemon). Looks absolutely lovely on the VITA and the new PS4 port of it also looks nice. Character design by Suzuhito Yasuda whose designs I really like. So lots to love about this game.

Arslan: The Warriors of Legend

(09/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]This exciting collaboration brings together The Heroic Legend of Arslan anime series, based on Hiromu Arakawa’s manga adaptation, and the thrilling action of the Warriors series! The exhilaration of plowing through large armies has been fused together with the charm and style of the world crafted in the anime. You can experience it all on the PlayStation®4 / PlayStation®3 and Xbox One.

By using the same visual style and talented voice actors from the anime, Arslan: The Warriors of Legend is able to faithfully recreate the anime’s world. Players can fully immerse themselves in famous scenes from the original story, as well as the many battles of Arslan and his allies.

In addition to the Warriors series’ traditional thrilling action of one warrior cutting down countless enemies, this title blends with it the grand, large-scale attacks seen in The Heroic Legend of Arslan. This combination allows for a level of exhilarating action not seen before in the Warriors series.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I first came across Arslan when I came in drunk one Friday night (knacker drinking in Carlingford watching the girl I fancied eat the face of some bellend from Blackrock, bitter? No sir) and Channel 4’s late night manga was broadcasting the original OVA. I enjoyed the OVA but it felt like a small slice of a much bigger story (because it was). A decade or two later (fuck I am old) and I was excited to see a TV series anime adaptation announced. The series more than delivered, absolutely loved it. Big historical epics with massive battles clearly fit seamlessly into the Musou series’s wheelhouse. I enjoy the Musou games and the recent entries, particularly the licensed ones, have really improved the formula. So this will give me something to do while I wait for Season 2 to come out (and then complete because I am pathologically incapable of watching anime week to week).

Star Ocean: Integrity and Faithlessness

(31/03/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]STAR OCEAN, the epic, sci-fi RPG saga that takes players to the stars and beyond, makes its triumphant return with its forthcoming fifth installment in the series. The title is developed by tri-Ace, the celebrated studio behind each of the previous iterations, with character designs by akiman (Akira Yasuda).[/spoiler]

Why I want it:My relationship with this franchise has had its ups and downs. Star Ocean II was and remains one of my favourite JRPG’s of all time. While Star Ocean IV remains one of the worst games I have every played. One and three failed to make much impact, largely because I have finished neither. But this looks good. The combat looks fun, the world looks large and well designed, it looks like a modern take on a classic JRPG. Which is something I wasnt aware I wanted until I saw it. I am really looking forward to this (though I’m not looking forward to the endless online arguments about that diamond pattern body suit).

Total War: Warhammer

(28/04/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]The Old World echoes to the clamour of ceaseless battle. The only constant is WAR!

A fantasy strategy game of legendary proportions, Total War: WARHAMMER combines an addictive turn-based campaign of epic empire-building with explosive, colossal, real-time battles, all set in the vivid and incredible world of Warhammer Fantasy Battles.

Command four wholly different races: the Empire, the Dwarfs, the Vampire Counts and the Greenskins, each with their own unique characters, battlefield units and play style.

Lead your forces to war as one of eight Legendary Lords from the Warhammer Fantasy Battles World, arming them with fabled weapons, armour and deadly battle magic; hard-won in individual quest chains.

For the first time in a Total War game, harness storms of magical power to aid you in battle and take to the skies with flying creatures, from ferocious dragons and wyverns to gigantic griffons.

Hundreds of hours of gameplay await you at the dawn of a new era. Total War: WARHAMMER brings to life a world of legendary heroes, towering monsters, flying creatures, storms of magical power and regiments of nightmarish warriors.
Lead Extraordinary Races
The valiant men of the Empire, the vengeful Dwarfs, the murderous Vampire Counts and the brutal Orcs and Goblins of the Greenskin tribes. Each Race is wholly different with their own unique characters, campaign mechanics, battlefield units and play style.
Command Legendary Characters
March your forces to war as one of eight Legendary Lords from the Warhammer Fantasy Battles World, arming them with fabled weapons, armour, mounts and deadly battle magic as you uncover their tales through a series of unique narrative quest chains.
Conquer this world
The very first Total War game to feature a fantasy setting. Experience incredible depth and the freedom to conquer as you see fit across a gigantic sand-box Grand Campaign map. Crafted from a twisted magical landscape and populated with an incredible array of awesome and deadly creatures, this is your chance to experience fantasy strategy on a scale as yet unimagined.
Unleash the monsters
The battlefields of Total War: WARHAMMER echo to the swoop and roar of dragons, the bellowing of giants and the thundering hooves of monstrous cavalry. Towering beasts of both earthly and supernatural origin wade into the melee of battle, bringing death to hundreds of lesser creatures at a time.
Harness the Winds of Magic
Smite your enemies with magical storms, melt their armour, sap their fighting spirit or bolster your own forces with devastating spells that split the sky and consume the battlefield. Rally wizards, shamans and necromancers to your armies and bend titanic and unpredictable energies to your whim.
Watch the skies
Harass your enemies with Dwarfen Gyrocopters, plunge into their front-lines with terrifying Wyverns and achieve air superiority with a stunning array of flying units for the first time in a Total War game. Entirely new tactical possibilities present themselves as you deploy your winged minions in open battles and jaw-dropping sieges.
What is more, this title will go on to combine with two future standalone instalments and additional content packs to create the largest Total War experience ever. An epic trilogy of titles that will redefine fantasy strategy gaming.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:You seldom see so perfect a pairing between a computer game franchise and a compatible IP. I love the Warhammer world and in the past I enjoyed the miniatures games. But I am bad at painting and never really invested the time to become even barely competent. I enjoyed modeling and the actual game was fun. But it’s too big an investment of everything to keep up with. This feels like it’ll deliver all the key elements of the setting and the battle experience but in sweet, sweet HD. Which we all know is better than the sad old SD real world.

Stranger of Sword City

(29/04/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]A true dungeon RPG that puts you face to face with death and the fear of vanishing forever. A new project from Team Muramasa for all dungeon RPG players. “Vanishing,” a fear that looms over you and your allies, the complicated labyrinths that trap you, the truly dangerous monster battles that ask of you all of your focus, and much more will put you face to face with death. A story of magical dimensions, finding your way home, and sacrifice. Artistically drawn by Yoko Tsukamoto and Raita Kazama with a dramatic soundtrack by Naoaki Jinbo.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I like dungeon crawlers, from back in the glory days of Eye of Beholder to more recent entries like Etrian Odyssey and Demon Gaze. These days Experience Inc make the best dungeon crawlers out there so I’ve absolutely no qualms about the game from a gameplay standpoint. But really what attracted me to it in the first place, and what forms the main part of my anticipation is the lovely looking artwork.

No Mans Sky

(26/06/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]No Man’s Sky is a game about exploration and survival in an infinite procedurally generated galaxy.

A TRULY OPEN UNIVERSE
Whether a distant mountain or a planet hanging low on the horizon, you can go there. You can fly seamlessly from the surface of a planet to another, and every star in the sky is a sun that you can visit.
Where you’ll go and how fast you’ll make your way through this universe is up to you. It’s yours for the taking.

EXPLORATION IS SEEING THINGS NO ONE HAS EVER SEEN BEFORE
Explore uncharted solar systems and catalogue unique new forms of life. Every planet’s landscape is different from the next, and populated by species never before encountered.
Find ancient artefacts that could reveal the secrets behind the universe.
Choose whether to share your discoveries with other players. They’re exploring the same vast universe in parallel; perhaps you’ll make your mark on their worlds as well as your own.

SURVIVE ON A DANGEROUS FRONTIER
Every solar system, planet, ocean and cave is filled with danger, and you are vulnerable.
Your ship and suit are fragile, and every encounter can test your skills to the limit. From dogfighting in space to firstperson combat on a planet’s surface, you will face foes ready to overwhelm you.
And one mistake could see you lose everything. In No Man’s Sky, every victory and every defeat has lasting consequences.

BUILD FOR AN EPIC JOURNEY
Whether you want to explore and see things never before discovered, or directly set course for the centre of the galaxy, how you play No Man’s Sky is up to you.
But you cannot take your voyage lightly. You’ll need to prepare.
Collect precious resources on the surfaces of planets and trade them for the ships, suits and equipment that will take you to your destiny in the stars.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Honestly I think the game speaks for itself. Look at the trailer and try not to be excited about what this game could be. Sadly that excitement has been stretched far too thing across far too long. They announced this game way too early and while I will still definitely buy this game I just can’t talk about looking forward to it without being pissed off.

Final Fantasy XV

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]In a matter of days, the Kingdom of Lucis is to sign an armistice, ending a long and bitter conflict with Niflheim. Ahead of the ceremony, Prince Noctis, heir to the Lucian throne, sets forth from his homeland to formalize the union of states through his marriage to the Lady Lunafreya of the imperial province of Tenebrae.

The offer of peace, however, is no more than a ruse to lower the Lucian shield, and the imperial army takes the crown city and its sacred crystal in one fell swoop. En route to his destination, Noctis is shocked to learn that he, his father the king, and his betrothed are believed dead.

Overnight, the dream of peace has faded into a distant memory. His world crumbling around him, Noctis has naught but his resolve and his loyal companions to see him through the trials to come.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:The last few years have been a mixed time to be a fan of the Final Fantasy franchise. You have the excellent Final Fantasy XIV, the painfully mediocre Final Fantasy XIII, the sawtooth quality of Final Fantasy XIII-2, the endless string of HD remakes, the trolling and then the rapture of the Final Fantasy VII announcements and in the shadows the endless development of Final Fantasy XV. Honestly I’d lost interest. I knew I’d pick it up when it came out. But I didn’t care. The demo made me care, then Leviathan in the demo made me hate the restrictions of linear time. This is the first time in years I’ve been genuinely excited about the release of a Final Fantasy game.

Lineage Eternal

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Lineage Eternal is the latest MMORPG in the Lineage series. This game incorporates a “drag action” input system where skills are activated by mouse gestures made on the screen. The game seeks to provide the chance to have a heroic experience for the player, such as being able to lead allied troops into a massive siege battle. The main component of gameplay consists of a fast-paced hack-and-slash combat and the strategic use of terrain based objects.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This looks absolutely amazing, both visually and in terms of gameplay. While Diablo 3 currently reigns supreme at the top of its own unique genre of action RPG I have the feeling that this could supplant it. Or at least give it a strong run for its money. I’m hoping it gets either a worldwide release or that the localisation is quick because I don’t want to wait years for it like I did for Blade & Soul.

God Eater: Resurrection / God Eater 2

(Q2/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

The struggle of God Eaters, like that of the members of Blood, had ended. The “Devouring Apocalypse”, a threat that would engulf the world, changed its form into a structure known as the “Spiral Tree” due to the sacrifice of a God Arc user.

Then, one day something odd in the “Spiral Tree” happens. The members of Blood set out for an investigation together with fellow God Arc user, Livie Collete dispatched by Fenrir headquarters. While each holds their own feelings in their hearts, they will have to confront with the Spiral Tree once more…

The balance of the world and a promise with a comrade. Something awaits for Blood at the depths of the spiral tree….

  • Additional Story Content: In addition to the story of God Eater 2, Rage Burst adds a continuation to the story of Julius Visconti’s fate. By exploring the Spiral Tree, there will be encounters with some Aragaminever seen before alongside with new areas.
  • Blood Rage/Rage Burst: By sliding an on-screen icon, numerous vows to select from and complete on a certain Aragami are shown. Upon completion, damage multipliers will be granted depending on the percentage accumulated alongside greater mobility (infinite HP, ST & Dash). Furthermore, a special theme will play.
  • Variant Scythe: A new weapon type, Variant Scythes specialize in Sunder and are specially good at attacking foes from mid distances through their special actions; Round Fang, Cleave Fang and Vertical Fang.
  • Skill Install: By accepting random occurences from a red indicator in the mission screen, it’s possible to accept “Special Duties“, which are rewarded with “Abandoned God Arcs“. With these, it’s possible to install these Arcs’ abilities into equipment. Skill effect varies depending on their level and low levels could be improved into a higher level by stacking two of the same skill. This system is called Skill Install.
  • Personal Ability System: By spending Ability Points (AP) earned from missions, it is now possible to unlock new Personal Abilities which consist of new skills and buffs to existing attributes of allied NPCs.
  • Survival Missions: Introduced in the original game as a DLC pack, players can go through a series of missions to defeat Aragamis. ‘Camping Scenes’ take place between missions where players can catch a glimpse of the characters doing various activities as they take a break. Survival missions have a stat meter called ‘Endurance’, representing the number of spawns each member has remaining.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:God Eater is my Monster Hunter. It takes the Monster Hunter formula, changes it in various ways to make it faster paced and more accessible. Then it slaps on a different aesthetic and a sweet intro animated by Ufotable. I wouldn’t necessarily say its a better series than Monster Hunter. But it is unarguably one I prefer. I played a fan translation of the original until the localised version came out and then I played that. Its been so long I never thought we’d see 2 localised, and never ever thought it’d be on the PC as well. So needless to say last months announcement made me very happy. A solid release date would make me even happier as Q2 is worryingly nebulous. Even if this wasnt one of the only Monster Hunter-esque games available on PC I’d still recommend it because in my opinion it’s the best.

Persona 5

(Q2/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Beneath the veneer of typical urban high school life, a group of teenagers mask their mysterious alter egos, their “phantom thief” side. Who are they? Why are they dressed as such? What are their motives? And… why are they being pursued? A picaresque coming-of-age story, Persona 5 will bring a thrilling, new twist to the RPG genre

You will assume the role of a second-year high school student who becomes a Persona-user through an unexpected incident. Having moved to Tokyo just before the start of the school year, he finds residence at a cafe run by his parents’ friend, and is about to get his first taste of school life in the big city. The protagonist seems quiet and well-mannered at first glance, but gives a completely different impression once he has donned his “phantom thief” guise. What is the motivation of his alter ego…?

This is an account of the wild adventures experienced by a team of young misfits, who grow dramatically along the way. While attending Shujin High School, the protagonist will encounter a number of individuals, each with his or her own distinctive personality and charm. School life in the city is full of surprises and interesting events! It will most definitely be a fun year for the protagonist, living as an ordinary student. However, he and his friends become involved in an incident which leads to the awakening of their Personas. No one would ever suspect that these adolescents will eventually shake the world…
Welcome to the next iteration of the Persona series, boasting a brand new metropolitan setting, all-new cast, and fresh, original story.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Persona 3 is possibly my favourite RPG of all time and Persona 4 isn’t far behind (the Persona 2’s are up there as well). I feel like I’ve been waiting forever for this to come out and the fact its release got delayed half a year was like a slap in the face. Beyond my love of the series the game itself looks great. I love the whole Phantom Thief thing and when you throw it into a modern-day supernatural setting I’d be excited even if you didn’t then add all the trappings that the Persona series is known for.

Anticipated Games

These are the games that I’m actively looking forward to. I want to play them and I want to play them now. They are the games that have the best chance of retaining my attention before something shiny draws it away.

Resident Evil Zero HD

(19/01/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Be prepared to relive the first nightmare in Resident Evil 0, a remastered version of the popular prequel to the original Resident Evil game. This remastered version takes the fear-inducing atmosphere from the original 2002 release and transforms it with stunning new HD visuals, improved sound, widescreen support and an optional modernized control system and more. It’s the best way to experience the story of what really happened before the iconic mansion incident that was the catalyst for the entire Resident Evil saga.

The story of Resident Evil 0 takes players back to 1998. Reports have been mounting about unusual murders on the outskirts of Raccoon City. The city’s Special Forces division, S.T.A.R.S., sends their Bravo Team – including rookie cop member Rebecca Chambers – to investigate. On route, the team’s helicopter suffers engine trouble and is forced to make a crash landing, where they find an overturned prisoner transport vehicle. Splitting up to search the area, Rebecca discovers the Ecliptic Express, a train stopped dead on the tracks. Inside, she meets death row convict and ex-Navy lieutenant Billy Coen. Throughout the game, you will take control of both Rebecca and Billy, at times switching between both characters in order to proceed. Learning the advantages of each character is the key to solving puzzles and surviving the nightmares that lie ahead.
Features

Return to the series origins – Discover the truth behind what led to the horrors at the Mansion in Resident Evil in this fan-favorite and popular prequel title to the series.

Completely enhanced visuals – New high-resolution textures have been created from scratch, including 1080p support on next-gen consoles, while still preserving the classic appearance of the original release.

Fully remastered sound effects – 5.1 surround support provides a more experiential gaming atmosphere that best matches players’ listening environments.

Experience the horror in the classic 4:3 ratio or newly added 16:9 widescreen mode.
Play with the classic control scheme, or enjoy a new alternative scheme where the character moves in the direction of an analogue stick.

Fan-favorite Resident Evil characters – Rookie S.T.A.R.S. member Rebecca Chambers and wanted criminal Billy Coen combine skills and buddy up to survive the undead and infected nightmares that await them.

Wesker Mode – After completing the main storyline, you will be able to take control of series antagonist Albert Wesker, and use his superhuman abilities to power through the missions.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I played the original when it released and I enjoyed it. It did a good job of expanding the mythos and at the time was a throwback to the original gameplay style of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the excellent HD Remake of Resident Evil last year and hopefully I’ll enjoy this remake just as much. That said all I can remember about the game is that I hated the look of some guys dual pistols, and shallow as it may appear that does oddly give me some pause.

Street Fighter V

(16/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]The legendary fighting franchise returns with STREET FIGHTER® V! Stunning visuals depict the next generation of World Warriors in unprecedented detail, while exciting and accessible battle mechanics deliver endless fighting fun that both beginners and veterans can enjoy. Challenge your friends online, or compete for fame and glory on the Capcom Pro Tour.

The path to greatness begins here: RISE UP!
FEATURES

New and Returning Characters: Classic characters like Ryu, Chun-Li, Charlie Nash and M. Bison return! Many more new and returning characters will be added to the diverse roster, offering a wide variety of fighting styles for players to choose from.

New Strategies and Battle Mechanics: Highly accessible new battle mechanics, which revolve around the V-Gauge and EX Gauge, provide an unprecedented layer of strategy and depth to the franchise that all players can enjoy.

V-Trigger: Unique abilities that use the entire V-Gauge, which allow players to turn the tide of battle.

V-Skill: Unique skills for each character that can be done at any time.

V-Reversal: Unique counterattacks that use one stock of the V-Gauge.

Critical Arts: Ultimate attacks that use the entire EX Gauge.
PC and PS4 Cross-Platform Play: For the first time in franchise history, the online community will be unified into a single player pool, allowing for even more rivalries to be born.

Next Gen Visuals: Unreal Engine 4 technology pushes the realism and next-gen visuals to new heights, making this latest entry the best looking and most immersive Street Fighter game of all time.

Rise up: Ranking leaderboards track players careers and are integrated with the Capcom Pro Tour, the premier league destination for competitive fighting games.

More to Come! Stay tuned for more announcements regarding new characters, stages, features, and more.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I wasnt interested in this until recently. Well that’s not true. I’ve a perennial love of fighting games and this is my favourite fighting game franchise. But that love is tempered these days by the fact that I don’t have enough local competition to make it worth getting invested, so buying the games often feels like a waste of money (and I generally buy them anyway because I am weak). However I got into the beta for SFV and it was simply fun. It’s a nice mix of “classic” SF II mechanics with some more modern fighting game tweaks. It doesn’t hurt that it looks lovely. But best of all, even with my shitty connection, the online play was rock solid. So even if I can’t get face to face play in I’ll hopefully be able to (get smoked/)play online.

The Witch and the Hundred Knight: Revival Edition

(01/03/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]You are the strongest creature known: the Hundred Knight. Spread the swamp with your master, Metallia, dominating, devouring, and destroying anyone or anything in your path. Then, test your might by ascending the Tower of Illusion! The Tower of Illusion is an exciting, new dungeon only offered on “The Witch and the Hundred Knight: Revival Edition.” The enemies and dropped items in the tower are determined by the strength of the weapon. So, offer strong weapons to fight strong enemies! Most importantly, you can summon Metallia here, bringing this badass witch to the battlefield! Lastly, with the game’s upgraded graphics, all the intricate details that went unseen on PlayStation®3 surge to life on PlayStation®4. Enjoy the seamless, fluid motion as the frame rate has been upgraded from 30 to 60 FPS!

Story
Fed up with being unable to travel beyond the borders of her swamp, the witch Metallia forges a contract with the legendary Hundred Knight to help her realize her ambition of spreading her swamp throughout all of Medea. As the Hundred Knight, your mission is to do whatever your master, the Swamp Witch, commands. Explore the world, destroy Pillars built to prevent her swamp from spreading, and wreak indiscriminate havoc. However, in the back of your inhuman mind, you begin to wonder… What prevents Metallia from leaving the swamp? Why do the other witches shun her, and how can she survive in a swamp that is notorious for how poisonous its fumes are? Is Metallia really a witch to respect, or is she one to fear?

New Features
Shiny New Graphics
Using the power of the PlayStation®4, these swampy lands have been updated with new textures, lighting, and models.

The Tower of Illusion
A brand new area will allow you to offer up your favorite weapons to battle foes whose strength is determined by the strength of the sacrificed weapon. This new area will enable you to acquire powerful new loot.

Be the Witch!
Entering the Tower of Illusion and collecting Concentrated Mana will enable you to summon and play as Metallia for the first time ever!

Alchemy
You might not be making gold, but you can now upgrade your weapons using catalysts from the Tower of Illusion to increase their ATK, DEF, and more![/spoiler]

Why I want it:Honestly I’d more or less buy anything Takehito Hirada drew the characters for. Which honestly leaves me shock that I didn’t pick up the original version of this. If memory serves I was uncharacteristically busy and much more characteristically flat broke when it came out. There were also a slew of technical and gameplay issues which made the decision not to indulge a little easier. From what I’ve seen all of these issues have been addressed or improved so there’s nothing standing between me and some sweet, sweet Takehito Hirada artwork.

Battlefleet Gothic Armada

(31/03/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Battlefleet Gothic: Armada is the RTS videogame adaptation of Games Workshop’s classic tabletop game, pitting the Chaos, Imperium, Eldar, and Orks against each other in visceral space-battles.

Developed with Unreal Engine 4, Battlefleet Gothic: Armada offers deep management of every ship composing the player’s fleet, both during and between battles. From the fastest frigates to the gigantic, miles-long battleships, the player will customize all aspects of his ships: weaponry, defense and support sub-systems, but also crew, captains, and more… each customization affecting the very performances of the ship and the special abilities available during battle. From battle to battle, the admirals and crew of surviving ships will gain experience and promotions, improving the battle-readiness of the ships for future, bigger and more dangerous battles.

Additionally an extensive multiplayer mode with persistent fleets where up to 4 players can battle simultaneously, Battlefleet Gothic: Armada also features a big story campaign, taking place during the 12th Black Crusade and putting players in the middle of the Gothic War that raged between the Imperium and Abaddon the Despoiler. Players will be at the centre of every fight, commanding fleets of gigantic ships as the Chaos unleash a sequential chain of surprise attacks on Imperium worlds – the start of 20 years of warring in the sector.

An expansive single-player campaign across the Gothic sector.
Four factions to command, each one with its own strengths and skills.
Tactical PVP multiplayer offering infinite replayability.
A huge array of authentically recreated Battlefleet Gothic ships.
A real-time strategy experience retaining many of the tactical Battlefleet Gothic elements.
A plethora of lore-abiding skills to fill the player’s arsenal.
Upgrade and apply skills at port Maw[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Battlefleet Gothic was one of the (many many) 40K spin-off miniature games that popped up during Games Workshop’s heyday. It was one I honestly didn’t play a whole lot so I’ve no particular nostalgia for it. But as I mentioned elsewhere I’m a big fan of the 40K setting and a large part of the setting rests on its gothic sci-fi aesthetic, best exemplified by the human forces, specifically their larger vehicles. The game really brings those vehicles to life and I don’t have it in me not to get excited about a tactical combat game where you fly armed cathedrals through space. I do feel some trepidation about the dearth of information available on the game considering how soon its out.

Abzû

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]ABZÛ is an epic descent into the depths of the sea, where players will explore beautifully rendered ocean environments with fluid swimming controls. The experience draws inspiration from the deep innate narrative that we all carry within our subconscious: the story of ABZÛ is a universal myth that resonates across cultures. The name references a concept from the oldest mythologies; it is the combination of the two ancient words AB, meaning ocean, and ZÛ, meaning to know. ABZÛ is the ocean of wisdom.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:No beating around the bush, I am interested in this entirely due to how it looks and sounds. I absolutely adore its presentation.

Attack on Titan

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Not a lot of published details in English. It’s a game adaptation of the manga’s story. Ta da.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Yeah, yeah, giants are cool. Gore is shocking. But the thing that sold this series, certainly in terms of visual spectacle, was the maneuver gear. So any game based on the IP needed to nail that down. From that I’ve seen this game really does. The best thing about even a terrible Spider-Man game is the web swinging and here you’ve got rocket-propelled web slinging strapped to your pelvis and hurling you into bloody battle against monstrous giants. Whats not to love? I also like the cel shaded approach they’ve taken. They just need to nail the difficulty and this game will be amazing.

Horizon Zero Dawn

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]STORY GAME FEATURES
Game characters
A stolen world
The next era of mankind
In a lush, vibrant, post-apocalyptic open world, colossal mechanized creatures roam a landscape that they have torn from the grip of mankind.

Human evolution has, over time, regressed to a tribal hunter-gatherer existence, surviving amongst towering forests, imposing mountain ranges and the atmospheric ruins of a bygone civilisation – while the savage machines have become all-powerful.

You are Aloy, a skilled hunter who relies on speed, cunning and agility to stay alive and protect her tribe against the strength, size and raw power of the machines. Against overwhelming odds, you must embark on a compelling, emotional journey to uncover the secrets of a forgotten civilisation, the ancient artefacts they left behind, and to learn more about the advanced technologies that will determine the fate of the planet – and of human life itself.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Two words, robot dinosaurs. I used to love dinosaurs, absolutely adored the fucking things. Then shortly after my balls dropped I lost all interest in them. They went from amazing to naff in the space of a few centimetres. Nothing really changed my mind over the years (well Dino Crisis maybe). Then I saw the trailer for this and dinosaurs (well specifically mecha dinosaurs) were cool again. Third person action games I can take or leave. But the world presented by this game, as well as what you get up to in it, looks simply cool. And I certainly have time for simply cool.

Masquerada

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Masquerada: Songs and Shadows is a 2.5D isometric RPG, built in the vein of Baldur’s Gate and Dragon Age where you can pause combat to plan tactics for your party.
Set in the Venetian-inspired fantasy city of Ombre where rare masks are the key to casting magic, Masquerada is dressed in the colours and style of French comic books and vivid games like Bastion.
Players follow the Inspettore, Cicero Gavar as he returns from exile to solve a kidnapping that will shake up the foundations of the city.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:The setting is what looks coolest about this to me. The computer rpg space is inundated with classic western fantasy or SE inspired Japanese fantasy. So a renaissance era fantasy world is a very welcome novelty. I’m also a fan of mystery’s so the central narrative of the game appeals. The setting is also set-up for what could a very interesting story (though I admit very few CRPG’s manage to compellingly present nuanced civil wars). Add in the fact that it looks lovely and uses an isometric viewpoint and a pause based combat system with synergistic magic effects and there’s nothing to dislike here.

Ni-Oh

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Nioh (??) –stylized in Japanese as NIOH, originally titled Oni (?) and formerly spelled Ni-Oh– is an upcoming action game first announced in 2004 as a PlayStation 3 exclusive. It has been stuck in development limbo for over a decade; its finalized form was presented at the SCEJA Press Conference 2015. The main goal of the project is to present an original “difficult and dark samurai action game” from Koei.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:A game twelve years in development based on an un-earthed script by Akira Kurosawa? I wouldn’t be me if that didn’t interest me on the surface. But its the gameplay that really interests me. While they’ve had some misses Team Ninja have still made some of the best action games out there and from what can be seen the combat in Ni-Oh looks like it’s up there with the better part of their output. So the gameplay appeals. Then add in the lovely looking visuals, the medieval Japanese setting infused with the supernatural, what looks like a fairly solid difficulty curve. It gives me an Onimusha meets Dark Souls vibe and as I love both those series I can’t help but be excited about how good this could be.

Nier: Automata

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]NieR: Automata is a brand new dream project by Square Enix in collaborations with world renowned developer PlatinumGames and many progressive creators including those from the original NIER game, such as YOKO TARO.

An extra-terrestrial invasion has left mankind exiled on the moon. Androids are sent to the deserted ruins of our home planet in order to remove the menacing Mechanoids. The YoRHa 2B, the latest infantry model android, is tasked with the perilous mission to rid of the invaders from the surface of Earth. Where will the on-going proxy war between Androids and Mechanoids lead to?[/spoiler]

Why I want it:The combat in this looks awesome. A mix of high-speed combo based attacks with rapid weapon switching, environmental interaction and weird genre mashups. That along would get me interested. Seeing the same team that made Nier working on it is what gets me excited.

Stellaris

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Grand Strategy on a Galactic Scale

Explore a vast galaxy full of wonder! Paradox Development Studio, makers of the Crusader Kings and Europa Universalis series presents Stellaris, an evolution of the grand strategy genre with space exploration at its core.

Featuring deep strategic gameplay, an enormous selection of alien races and emergent storytelling, Stellaris has a deeply challenging system that rewards interstellar exploration as you traverse, discover, interact and learn more about the multitude of species you will encounter during your travels.

Etch your name across the cosmos by uncovering remote celestial outposts, and entire civilizations. Will you expand through war or walk the path of diplomacy to achieve your goals?

Main Features

Anomaly Events – Strange discoveries offer emergent storytelling.
Deep & Varied Exploration.
Enormous procedural galaxies, containing thousands of planets.
Numerous playable species, each with their own traits and engineering styles.
Vast number of Unique Random Species.
Advanced Diplomacy system.
Ship Designer (even civilian ships can be customized).
Stunning space visuals.
Up to 32 player Multiplayer.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:It’s hard to deny that Paradox have been on a hot streak with their recent releases. While their older games were just as addictive as their more recent ones they were also significantly more obtuse. But Crusader Kings II and Europa Universalis IV improved on the games indepth mechanics while also making them significantly more accessible. Then along comes Stellaris which seems to be blending the emergent narratives of Crusader Kings II with the startling depth of Europa Universalis IV. Best of all its draped in a sci-fi skin and adds in the kind of unique and interesting elements that Paradox games are known for. The novel approach to technological progress and the fact that civilisations have solid factions as opposed to monolithic cultures just seems cool.#

va-11 hall-a

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action is a booze em’ up about waifus, technology, and post-dystopia life.

In this world, corporations reign supreme, all human life is infected with nanomachines designed to oppress them, and the terrifying White Knights ensure that everyone obeys the laws.

But, this is not about those people.

You are a bartender at VA-11 HALL-A, affectionately nicknamed “Valhalla.” Although it is just a small bar downtown, it attracts the most fascinating people this side of dystopia. Keep your clients lubricated and you will be made privy to the most interesting stories.

Features
Learn about daily life in a cyberpunk dystopia.

A branching storyline where your decisions do not depend on traditional choices, but through the drinks you prepare.

Visuals inspired by old japanese adventure games for the PC-98, with a modern touch for an other-wordly experience.

Get to know your clients, their tastes, and prepare the drink that will change their lives.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:The novelty of the tag line was what initially attracted me. Cyberpunk bartender certainly sells itself on uniqueness. The alternate tagline (Waifu bartending), doesn’t hurt either. Beyond that it looks like a fun cyberpunk parody with a nice retro aesthetic.

Yakuza 0

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Yakuza 0 is a prequel to the Yakuza series of video games. It is set in December 1988 in the games’ staple location of Kamurocho, a fictionalized recreation of Tokyo’s Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai areas[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This is a series that doesn’t get enough love. Now I am of course biased as the base subject matter appeals. But my own bias aside these are excellent open world action games with a solid story, an intimidating amount of side content, fun combat and a nice looking engine. It’s just weird that more people aren’t into them. That aside this specific entry in the series is exciting because many assumed that it wasnt going to happen, there’s also the fact that it’ll be the first current gen Yakuza to be localised. Most important of all of course is the fact its set in the 80’s, and these days it seems impossible not to find that era cool. I mean you probably can, but its like eating people, saying it out loud is going to lose you some friends.

Zero Time Dilemma

(Q3/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Building on the success of its predecessors, Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors, and Virtue’s Last Reward, series mastermind Kotaro Uchikoshi has pulled out all the stops to deliver the most compelling and mind shredding gaming experience ever seen on a handheld platform. Choice is your only method of salvation and your only means of escape. How much of your humanity will you sacrifice to earn your freedom? As a new age of ruin looms large on the horizon, you must make impossible decisions and weather unimaginable consequences as you straddle the line between absolution and damnation. [/spoiler]

Why I want it:The game before this ended in a cliffhanger and the company flat out said they couldn’t make this game. I am so very glad they managed to make this happen as that cliffhanger was like a thorn in my brain. One I am excited to be able to finally remove. I like visual novels and I like a good mystery and a good twist I don’t see coming, these games are one of the few things that combine all those elements successfully.

Valkyria: Azure Revolution

(Q4/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]The small country of Jutland is economically blockaded by Rus, a powerful empire that expanded its territory and achieved rapid industrial development after discovering the azure mineral Ragnite; this mineral is used as an energy resource, but also has magical properties. Wanting independence from colonial rule, Jutland strikes the base of the empire’s army. In addition to humans, the game world is inhabited by Valkyria; they are “supernatural” in comparison to humans, and close to being gods. Players take the role of Amleth, the commanding officer of Jutland’s elite anti-Valkyria unit. Among other characters are Jutland’s princess Ophelia, and Brynhildr, a Valkyria who is on the Rus empire’s side.

Valkyria: Azure Revolution is a real-time role-playing video game with strategy elements. The flow of the game consists of the player preparing at their base, going to the battlefield to achieve their objectives, and then returning to the base again. The game includes permanent death, meaning that characters that die are removed from the game; the player can choose to retry if one of their characters die.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I hate, absolutely hate, when people use the term anime as a genre descriptor. It’s sloppy, lazy and ignorant. Something else I hate is people trying to boil everything down to “tropes” and memes. Tvtropes should be burned to the fucking ground so I am spared having to deal with morons trying to critically dissect something with tools whose purpose is ill-defined and which they don’t understand. That said. Hyper competent combatants dressed in arguably silly looking outfits do pop up in a lot of shounen adventure manga and anime. And I generally like it, which is part of the reason this game looks interesting to me. The other part is of course the Valkyria moniker. I adore Valkyria Chronicles and while this is going to play differently based even on the slim amount we know it looks interesting. It also shares the watercolour aesthetic which was a big selling point for its predecessor.

Games I’ll probably play

If I was feeling like a dick (and when am I not?) I would suggest that these are the more popular and creatively bankrupt games and that they’ll be bought in bulk BY YOU SHEEP!. But that’s going a bit far. This section does feature a disproportionate number of “Triple A” titles though. I guess I’m drifting away from a place where mainstream games appeal to me. Games listed here are ones I will no doubt play but which are marred by one thing or another (quite often my own contrary opinion).

Firewatch

(09/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Firewatch is a mystery set in the Wyoming wilderness, where your only emotional lifeline is the person on the other end of a handheld radio.

The year is 1989.

You are a man named Henry who has retreated from your messy life to work as a fire lookout in the Wyoming wilderness. Perched atop a mountain, it’s your job to find smoke and keep the wilderness safe.

An especially hot, dry summer has everyone on edge. Your supervisor, a woman named Delilah, is available to you at all times over a small, handheld radio—and is your only contact with the world you’ve left behind.

But when something strange draws you out of your lookout tower and into the world below, you’ll explore a wild and unknown environment, facing questions and making interpersonal choices that can build or destroy the only meaningful relationship you have.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I don’t like “Walking simulators”, and while on the surface Firewatch could be accused of being one it looks like there’s a lot more going on here. First of all of course is how gorgeous the game looks, stylised but impressive. Which in fairness could be said for a lot of walking simulators. But there seems to be meat on the bones here, even the trailer drags you into the mystery and the story looks to be delivered primarily via conversation which is a method I like (and was used to good effect in games like Bioshock). The first person view and the traversal mechanics backup the narrative with an immersive viewpoint and at least some basic gameplay mechanics. I’m not sure if I’m anticipating this but I’m certainly intrigued by it.

Nights of Azure

(29/03/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Set on an uncharted imaginary island kingdom that floats in the North Sea, Nights of Azure paints a picture of a land where nights are tormented by azure-blooded demons. In this kingdom of Ruswal very few people have the strength and the skill to take on the monsters and walk around after the sun has set. One of the best among them is the protagonist, Arnice, a knight of great skill and power. Arnice is assisted by her friend and priestess Lilysse in a quest to rid the land of demons, but she soon finds out that the solution to the island’s problems might not be as simple as defeating enemies in battle…[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Before anything else I hope that this gets a PC port. While Koei Tecmo games usually do Gust games unfortunately do not. On the other hand Gust games always have rock solid gameplay, surprisingly deep and wrapped up in a misleading “moe” aesthetic. The Atelier series and its various spin-offs perfectly encapsulate this. The combat system is what interests me most about this game, it involves summoned units as well as being able to transform into various forms and transform through a series of weapons. I’m a sucker for visual diversity and customisation in RPG’s and being able to change dynamically during combat certainly appeals. I am a bit worried that perhaps the combat system is all there is to this and while Gusts solid track record is re-assuring I just need to see a few first hand impressions before getting fully invested in this.

Ratchet & Clank

(12/04/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Ratchet & Clank blasts onto PlayStation 4 for the first time, with a new game based on elements from the original Ratchet & Clank (PS2). Ratchet & Clank (PS4) re-imagines the characters’ origin stories and modernizes the original gameplay. Featuring all-new boss fights, several new planets, new flight sequences, and much more – with completely new visuals constructed to take advantage of the power of the PS4.

Produced alongside the major motion picture coming to theatres in 2016, Ratchet & Clank (PS4) is a curated experience borrowing from the spirit of the classic PS2 titles while infusing some of the best elements from the Ratchet & Clank Future games. Return to the Solana Galaxy and find all your favorite characters: Ratchet, Clank, Captain Qwark and super villain Chairman Drek, as well as many new ones in this third-person action-adventure platformer. Explore exotic planets, collect out-of-this-world weapons, and help Ratchet and Clank save the galaxy for the first time, again.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Time for my shocking confession. Despite their near universal acclaim I’ve never actually played a single entry in the Ratchet & Clank franchise. So my interest in this game is largely due to novelty.

Uncharted 4

(26/04/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Several years after his last adventure, retired fortune hunter, Nathan Drake, is forced back into the world of thieves. With the stakes much more personal, Drake embarks on a globe-trotting journey in pursuit of a historical conspiracy behind a fabled pirate treasure. His greatest adventure will test his physical limits, his resolve, and ultimately what he’s willing to sacrifice to save the ones he loves.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I really enjoyed the first Uncharted, Nazi’s, subs, zombies, tombs, treasure hunting, whats not to love? While the later games were certainly more mechanically adept they just never struck me like the first one. They relied a bit too heavily on set piece encounters I felt. On the other hand this one looks to be a bit more open in its approach so I’m hoping it can recapture that je ne sais quoi of the original. It’s also probably the most visually impressive PS4 exclusive so I feel obligated to get it to justify my purchase of the aforementioned console.

Guilty Gear Xrd Revelator

(07/06/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Aksys Games and Arc System Works proudly present Guilty Gear Xrd -REVELATOR- for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system releasing Spring 2016! Guilty Gear Xrd -REVELATOR- rips along at a blistering 60 frames per second and features cross platform PS4™ system/PS3™ system compatible battles. Choose from over 20+ insane fighters as you battle for glory in the post apocalypse. New fighters, modes and polished mechanics provide infinite ways to annihilate your rivals![/spoiler]

Why I want it:Guilty Gear is my favourite fighting game to be terrible at. It’s the exemplar for obtuse Japanese fighting games with ridiculously high and tight execution barriers. I love the music, the characters, the world, I even love my inability to get any better at. The Xrd part of the series also looks absolutely amazing. It’s easily the most visually impressive fighting game out there and even gives other 2.5D games a run for their money. Despite all this I again lack local competition, which I need as I’m terrible at dedicating myself to these games without it. Hence why it isn’t in one of the higher “tiers”.

Odin Sphere Leifthrasir

(07/06/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]ATLUS x Vanillaware, the team behind the hit side-scrolling action game Dragon’s Crown releases a new authentic HD project to recreate and perfect the PS2 classic Odin Sphere – a 2D action RPG with Norse Mythology roots. Told in five tales from the perspectives of five unique protagonists, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir expresses the original game with glorious HD graphics in Vanillaware’s renowned style.

The kingdom of Valentine was the most powerful country on the continent of Erion. Its people thrived using the magical power of the Crystallization Cauldron, but it was destroyed in one fateful night. And so, a war over the now master-less Cauldron has begun, involving all the nations of the land and growing more intense by the day. Is the End near, as the Prophecy states?

HD Art Upgrade: Known for its beautiful, 2D hand-drawn art style, Odin Sphere is recreated in 1080p and 60FPS, making the vivid even more vivid and the beautiful more beautiful.
Redesigned for MORE ACTION: The controls and mechanics refined in Dragon’s Crown have been fine-tuned and carried over to Odin Sphere Leifthrasir. New moves give the gameplay more fluidity and make the game feel better than ever before.

All-new skill trees and an easy-to-use inventory system further refresh the experience.
New Stages and Enemies! Extra stages have been added, expanding the world of Odin Sphere. More than just gorgeous locales to be visited, new stages means new enemies to challenge!
Classics Don’t Go Out of Style: Those who prefer the battle gameplay of the original Odin Sphere need not fret, as the classic gameplay will remain an option–without sacrificing the upgraded high-definition graphics.
Japanese and English Voiceovers: Enjoy the original Japanese voices plus new English voices and text.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I’d probably buy an animated slideshow if it was illustrated by Vanilliaware and thanks to the framedrops in the original it often felt like playing an animated slideshow. In many ways Vanillaware games are better looking versions of arcade classics of the past such as Knights of the Round, Final Fight, etc. and that certainly holds true for Odin Sphere. The gameplay is solid but “basic”, it’s the visual polish that sells it and with a solid frame rate I can’t wait to jump back in.

New Danganronpa V3: Everyone’s New Semester of Killing

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]New Danganronpa V3: Everyone’s New Semester of Killing (NEW???????V3 ???????????? New Danganronpa V3: Minna no Koroshiai Shin Gakki) is an upcoming visual novel game in the Danganronpa series, developed by Spike Chunsoft. It’s the third main title in the game series and it’s both a sequel and something new for the series.
Like the title “New” implies, the game has a completely different storyline, characters and environment than the first three games (the “Hope’s Peak Academy” storyline ends with an anime series), with only the series’ mascot Monokuma returning. Furthermore, the “V” in the title doesn’t mean just “Version”, as it’s mentioned to have more than one meaning, such as “Victory” and “Violence”.

The overall theme is mentioned to be “psycho cool”, unlike the “psycho pop” and “psycho tropical” themes of the first two games. The visual style will have “cool adult-like image” and the Class Trials will have “high-speed reasoning action”. While the storyline and the 16 new characters are different, the gameplay is similar to the earlier games, including exploration, talking with other characters and the Class Trials. It will have notable additions and improvements, though, like the possibility to use your own lies to defeat opponents during the trials.

The game features a boy wearing a variety of high tech gear (who may or may not be a cyborg or a robot), possibly the main protagonist, and a new setting called “Gifted Inmates Academy”. The high school (and a hotel) is in a garden surrounded by a cage. It’s implied that the story is set in the future.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:At this point it’s quite difficult to come up with new ways to say “I’m excited about the most recent entry in a series where I’ve enjoyed every previous entry.” The Danganronpa games are pretty enjoyable, nice mysteries, crazy characters and situations. What initially attracted me to the series was the character art and design and I think that remains the series strong point.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is a sandbox action-RPG strategy hybrid will take players on a journey into a fictional world of up-close and personal medieval combat on a huge scale, bigger, bloodier and more intense than ever before. Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord will build upon the popular Mount & Blade franchise bringing in many exciting and highly requested new features.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:My mercenary companies never really enjoyed much long term success in the original. But I certainly enjoyed my time with them. While I never warmed to the combat the sandbox nature of the gameplay was great. This looks like it’ll be delivering more of the same with nicer graphics and some much needed quality of life and user interface improvements. There’s certainly games on here I’m more excited about but on the other hand while I may not be as excited about this I firmly know that I’ll enjoy my time with Mount & Blade II

Ni No Kuni 2

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Basically nothing other than the trailer at the moment[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I’m not the biggest fans of Ghibli movies. I am however quite a big fan of RPG’s that look like an interactive Ghibli movie. Ni No Kuni was a fun JRPG with an old-school feel, a great soundtrack and top notch visuals. The story did skew a little young, but that was apparent going in. I enjoyed my time with the game (though due to a hard drive shitting itself I lost a save from 2/3rds of the way through and have yet to finish it). This looks like it’ll hit the same production high points as the first. I’m just not sure if I’m up for another story like the first. So I’m tentatively excited pending further information.

The Last Guardian

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Love and friendship
Unlikely companions
From Japan Studio comes an unforgettable story of comradeship, trust and extraordinary adventures in a strange, mystical land.

When a young boy meets a colossal, mysterious creature named Trico, the pair form a deep, unbreakable bond that will help them survive amongst the crumbling ruins and malevolent dangers that surround them.
By working together, the unlikely pair must communicate with one another to overcome tremendous obstacles and uncover the secrets of their beautiful fantasy world – and ultimately survive their touching and emotionally charged journey.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Interested in this purely on the strength of Ico and Shadow of the Colossus.

Toukiden 2

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Not a lot so far. General

Unlike its predecessor, Toukiden 2 is an open-world hunting action game.
From forests and caves to volcanoes, players will fight in a variety of fields. When you encounter a demon, battles will take course seamlessly.
The world will shift between day and night.
There is a new weapon called the “Shield Sword,” which is just a big sword in the right hand and shield in the left hand.
Development is 60 percent complete.
Characters

The Hero Who Lost His Memory – A slayer who fought in the Twilight Yokohama Defensive War. In the midst of battle, he leaped forward 10 years and washed ashore a village without his memory.
Hakase (The Doctor) (Weapon: Gun) – A short girl and mechanical expert chasing the truth about the world.
Tokitsugu (Weapon: Gun) – A device that The Doctor made. The soul of a human is sealed inside it.
Gwen (Weapon: Shield Sword) – A British girl with blonde hair and blue eyes.
New Oni

Shinragou – A large oni with overwhelming power that can mow down everything in its path.
Hidaru – A medium-sized oni with long arms and an enlarged abdomen.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:If the impossible hadn’t happened and God Eater 2 Rage Burst wasnt finally getting localised then this would be much higher up my list. Conceptually I love Monster Hunter and its clones. But I’ve only been able to get into Monster Hunter once and enjoyed much more traction with its various descendants. I liked Toukiden, cool setting, nice character design, fun combat system with nice depth in its upgrade mechanics. Sadly the PC port was a bit shit. This looks like it takes the good part of Toukiden and tries to move beyond the arena/corridor combat common to the genre. I’m still interested in this but I’ve been waiting for God Eater 2 for so long that I cant place this any higher.

Twilight Struggle

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Twilight Struggle inherits its fundamental systems from the card-driven classics We the People and Hannibal: Rome vs. Carthage. In that tradition, it is a challenging strategy game of medium complexity that presents new and different challenges with every game session. The game map is a world map of the period, whereon players move units and exert influence in attempts to gain allies and control for their superpower. As with GMT’s other card-driven games, decision-making is a challenge; how to best use one’s cards and units given consistently limited resources?

Twilight Struggle’s Event cards add detail and flavor to the game. They cover a vast array of historical happenings, from the Arab-Israeli conflicts of 1948 and 1967, to Vietnam and the U.S. peace movement, to the Cuban Missile Crisis and other such incidents that brought the world to the brink of nuclear annihilation. Subsystems capture the prestige-laden Space Race as well as nuclear tensions, with the possibility of game-ending nuclear war.

For almost 10 years since its original release in 2005, Twilight Struggle has been dominating the BGG charts as the best board game, best war game, and best strategy game. Winner of multiple awards such as 2005 Charles S. Roberts Best Modern Era Boardgame, 2006 Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game, 2006 Golden Geek Best Wargame, and 2006 International Gamers Awards General Strategy (Two-players) to name a few. The time has come for GMT to take the next step and bring Twilight Struggle onto digital platforms in order to allow fans to play the game whenever, where ever, and with whoever they want!
[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Twilight Struggle is an amazing game. While it may have lost its coveted first place ranking over on Board Game Geek it remains one of the most impressive pieces of boardgame design out there. Unfortunately a two player game focused on the cold war that takes several hours to play doesn’t make it to the table very often (if at all). So my main interest in the digital version is the prospect of being able to play the game a) regularly and b) with breaks that don’t claim an entire table top until you come back to them.

Gravity Rush Remastered

(02/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Gain a new perspective as Kat, a strong-willed girl trying to protect her future in a world that’s crumbling to pieces. With incredible gravity-altering abilities, Kat is the only one who can salvage the floating city of Hekseville – if only she could remember who she is…

Control gravity with the touch of a button and deliver devastating attacks in this mind-bending action-adventure game. Do you have the courage to battle the mysterious and dangerous Nevi, recover Hekseville’s lost districts and uncover the secrets of Kat’s forgotten past?

Dive into a world of beautifully enhanced graphics to explore the unique 3D world, stunningly revamped from the award-winning PS Vita original.
Manipulate gravity with the DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller, using its built-in motion sensors to give you a new level of control.
Enjoy extra missions, challenges and costumes with the Maid Pack, Spy Pack and Military Pack, all included in the game.
Enjoy Gravity Rush Remastered’s unique comic book art style with over 600 illustrations[/spoiler]

Why I want it:The VITA is criminally under-rated. I don’t even like handhelds and I’d be the first to admit that from a technological standpoint its the best handheld videogame console ever made. Of course the games are the only thing that really matter and while its library caters towards my own tastes I can see why that might be a stumbling block. But its lack of popularity means that people miss out on great titles like the original Gravity Remastered which mixed a thoroughly fun traversal system with a cool comic inspired presentation and an interesting narrative. Even the touch controls were largely solid. So a nicer looking version with better controls (the touch controls were solid, not great) would be a must buy if I hadn’t already played it quite a bit.

Fire Emblem Fates

(19/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Two versions of the franchise’s new installment offer players an unprecedented choice: fight an opposing force or join the other side and try to make changes from within. For the first time in the series, players take on the role of the main character and command an army, while struggling to decide which path to follow: helping blood relatives or the family that raised him or her.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Even when I commuted regularly I was never the biggest fan of handheld systems. There’s something about them I just don’t like. It might be the fact they never seem particularly comfortable in my big meat paws but I suspect its simply the screen size. Daddy loves his inches. Disturbing sexual innuendo aside I do like the Fire Emblem series and while long time fans will doubtless curse me as “One of those” I like it more since Fire Emblem Awakening added in more social elements. It’s not purely a “Waifu Emblem” thing (I’m no more attracted to virtual women than I am to real ones), it’s just that I think even shallow social mechanics help to add conceptual depth to the game. Beyond the basic SRPG gameplay that I enjoy Fates is taking an interesting approach by releasing two versions of the game which feature different narratives culminating in a separate third act. Of course one cant help but think that there is an element of business acumen involved in that marketing decision. Sadly my compulsion to have a “complete” game means that this has been pushed down my list as buying two games right off is off-putting.

Enter the Gungeon

(28/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Enter the Gungeon is a gunfight dungeon crawler following a band of misfits seeking to shoot, loot, dodge roll and table-flip their way to personal absolution by reaching the legendary Gungeon’s ultimate treasure: the gun that can kill the past. Armed with a huge array of weaponry and the ability to dodge roll through bullets, battle your way to the bottom of the Gungeon by surviving an increasingly difficult and ever changing series of floors filled with enemies and bosses armed to the teeth. Gather loot, discover hidden secrets, chat with NPC’s and trade with opportunistic merchants to purchase powerful weaponry to gain an edge.
[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This game simply looks fun. A neat mash-up of roguelike and twin stick shooter mechanics that brings to mind the greats like Smash TV. Over the last few years I’ve started to gravitate towards games that are suitable for quick drop in/drop out play and this looks like a perfect way to blow away twenty minutes or so.

Stars Beyond Reach

(31/03/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Crash-land on a hostile sentient world in this deep, turn-based 4X/citybuildier. Learn the languages of other trapped alien empires, explore, form alliances, and ultimately attempt the impossible: escape.
Features
Manage your own civilization like a turn-based citybuilder, but in a 4X setting.
Deal with other civilizations using force or more nuanced building abilities (“poison Narr’s water,” “invite Keleci to the opera,” “dump bodies on Strot’s populace”).
The game takes place over four “acts” during which you have unique objectives and challenges: Arrival, Discovery, Alliances, and Doomsday.
You have considerable freedom in how you build your empire and make friends or foes, but each race is filled with unique character under your control or that of an AI.
14 alien races each have 3 possible leaders with their own personalities and goals. You will have to devise unique strategies for befriending or neutralizing them depending on their situation and exactly who is in a campaign.
There are distinct degrees of victory that you can achieve. Just winning the game doesn’t mean you won well.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Arcen Games make really interesting games where they frequently blend together genres in novel and enjoyable ways. Which is what this game promised, classic Simcity-esque gameplay framed within larger 4X gameplay sound like a recipe that eats time in the most pleasant way. Unfortunately the company is in severe financial trouble so the future of this title appears sadly in flux.

One Piece: Burning Blood

(30/06/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Developed by the famed Japanese studio Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd; ONE PIECE: Burning Blood is built upon the wacky and rich ONE PIECE universe and will offer a never-seen-before experience thanks to the fast-paced gameplay and unique ONE PIECE elements!
Speaking of which, Logia Demon Fruits and “Haki” can be used to throw massive special moves and take down the fiercest opponents! Stay tuned for more reveals.

Features

A FAST-PACED FIGHTING GAME. The long awaited pure fighting-game based on the ONE PIECE universe is here!

DEVIL FRUIT/HAKI ABILITIES. Logia Devil Fruits and “Haki” can be used to throw massive special moves and take down the fiercest opponents![/spoiler]

Why I want it:Shounen action adventure is a genre that seems to scream out for solid or at the bare minimum enjoyable fighting games. But they are sadly often hit or miss, some being great games in their own right and some being terrible shovelware. One Piece as a franchise has done fairly well on the game adaptation front so far and I’m hoping that this continues the trend. So far it looks like a good mix between a fun fighter and fan service vehicle so here’s hoping it holds up.

We Happy Few

(30/06/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]We Happy Few is the tale of a plucky bunch of moderately terrible people trying to escape from a lifetime of cheerful denial. Set in a drug-fuelled, retrofuturistic city in an alternative 1960s England, you’ll have to blend in with its other inhabitants, who don’t take kindly to people who don’t abide by their not-so-normal rules.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This just looks delightfully creepy. Big fan of alt history and this looks like an alt history adventure game by way of Bioshock and The Prisoner. That said it does seem to be selling itself entirely on atmosphere, which definitely works for the marketing campaign but I’m cautious of how well it’ll hold up over the course of the game.

Clockwork Empires

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Clockwork Empires is set in a Steampunk world of science, industry, and cosmic horrors.

Your mission: to build a colony populated by AI characters with their own traits, memories, and goals. [/spoiler]

Why I want it:Steampunk, check. Lovecraftian influences, check. Mick puts his money in here, check. Well actually the tick mark isnt quite there for the last step yet. The gild is entirely off the lily for me as far as early access is concerned. I don’t want to sully my experience with a game by playing an early buggy alpha so these days I much prefer to wait until something approaching a stable version sees general release. This game certainly looks fun though, the detailed individualism of the colonist’s AI, the freeform building and of course the darker elements like cannibalism and deep ones are personally appealing. Looking forward to seeing how this fares when its ready for a full release.

Expeditions: Viking

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Expeditions: Viking is the much awaited sequel to Logic Artists’ debut PC title Expeditions: Conquistador. You are the new leader of a small and weak Norse village. Consolidate your power as your neighbors plot against you, and cross the sea to explore the kingdoms of the British Isles where wealth and power awaits. Launch raids to plunder monasteries and villages, or establish trade routes and political alliances on your adventures throughout the Norse lands and beyond. This second installment to the Expeditions series takes you to the dawn of the Viking Age where you must carve your name into the annals of history. Trader or Tyrant? You decide.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Expeditions: Conquistador was a gret game that got next to no buzz and which no-one seems to talk about anymore. Which really is a shame as it has a lot going for it. The combat system was great, and hard as balls (which I generally find a mark in its favour) but the real strong point of the game was its excellently written story and quests as well as the wide array of unique companions. The party management aspect of the game was rock solid, like a juiced up version of Jagged Alliance 2. That said the game did have rough edges and felt low-budget in some places. I’m also not the biggest fan of Conquistadors (shocker I know). Vikings looks like it improves on Conquistadors mechanically and visually and has a setting that I’m a much bigger fan of.

Doom

(Q2/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]You’ve come here for a reason. The Union Aerospace Corporation’s massive research facility on Mars is overwhelmed by fierce and powerful demons, and only one person stands between their world and ours. As the lone DOOM Marine, you’ve been activated to do one thing – kill them all.

STANDARD EDITION DETAILS

A Relentless Campaign – There is no taking cover or stopping to regenerate health as you beat back Hell’s raging demon hordes. Combine your arsenal of futuristic and iconic guns, upgrades, movement and an advanced melee system to knock down, slash, stomp, crush, and blow apart demons in creative and violent ways.
Return of id® Multiplayer – Dominate your opponents in DOOM’s signature, fast-paced arena-style combat. In both classic and all-new game modes, annihilate your enemies utilizing your personal blend of skill, powerful weapons, vertical movement, and unique power-ups that allow you to play as a demon.
Endless Possibilities – DOOM SnapMap® – a powerful, but easy-to-use game and level editor – allows for limitless gameplay experiences on every platform. Without any previous experience or special expertise, any player can quickly and easily snap together and visually customize maps, add pre-defined or completely custom gameplay, and even edit game logic to create new modes. Instantly play your creation, share it with a friend, or make it available to players around the world – all in-game with the push of a button.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:My anticipation for this is largely based on nostalgia. Doom was paradigm altering. I cant get into the type of game modern shooters have evolved into. I did however really enjoy the much more old school approach of Wolfenstein New Order. I’m hoping this will share similar design sensibilities, of course it doesn’t hurt that it looks lovely. But all that aside the most critical issue is the shotgun, no game since has had a shotgun as satisfying to use as the double barrel in Doom 2. Can they recapture that magic?

Game’s I’m not likely to play but may

(ooh snappy title)

These are games that I’ve very little interest in but will probably end up playing because a) everybody else will and I like to have something to base my ranting on or b) just because. Some games are also here because there simply isn’t enough information available at the moment to decide how interested I am.

adr1ft

(08/07/1905)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]ADR1FT is an immersive First Person Experience (FPX) that tells the story of an astronaut in peril. Floating silently amongst the wreckage of a destroyed space station with no memory and a severely damaged EVA suit slowly leaking oxygen, the only survivor struggles to determine the cause of the catastrophic event that took the lives of everyone on board. The player fights to stay alive by exploring the wreckage for precious resources, and overcomes the challenges of an unforgiving environment to repair the damaged EEV and safely return home.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:As may have become apparent I’m something of a graphics whore, show me some high fps and shiny textures and you’ll have my attention. That seems to be the main appeal of this game, they’re selling an experience. One that looks cool and even looking at the trailers looks like it’ll be pretty immersive. But, and it’s a big but, I will not be an early adopter of VR, if I bother with it at all, so sadly I am unlikely to ever experience this. (I also think it looks purely like an interesting experience, there seems to be very little game here).

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 4

(09/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]The latest opus in the acclaimed STORM series is taking you on a colourful and breathtaking ride. Take advantage of the totally revamped battle system and prepare to dive into the most epic fights you’ve ever seen in the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM series!

Prepare for the most awaited STORM game ever created![/spoiler]

Why I want it:This series has always been visually impressive but it looks like they’re pulling out all the stops for this one. The battles look absolutely amazing and the cast of playable characters seems to be the largest yet. Sadly I cannot buy it. I cant buy it because I am too far behind the anime and manga (havent even hit the Shinobi World War). To be honest even seeing random headlines about the game has spoiled stuff on me. I really need to finish Naruto this year.

Unravel

(09/02/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Unravel introduces Yarny, a character made from a single thread of yarn. Inspired by environments of Northern Scandinavia, Unravel is a physics-based puzzled platformer. Yarny is a representation of the ties that bind loved-ones together. Embark with Yarny on a grand adventure to reconnect the long-lost memories of a family.

Game Features:

Environment. Inspired by the breath-taking, lush environments of Northern Scandinavia, traverse nature’s beauty as well as the dangers that it has in store.

Puzzles. Using Yarny’s thread, interact with the environment to swing across a tree gap or hitch a ride on a flying kite, no feat is too big. The tools may be simple but they have ability to accomplish complex puzzles.

Underlying Story. Unlock a heartfelt story re-connecting the memories of a long lost family. The tale is told completely without words, and Yarny is the bond that ties everything together.
[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This game just looks nice, in both sense of the word. It’s visually impressive but also exudes a feeling of nice that possibly borders on twee. I’m not sure how into platform games I am though. In my head I think I might enjoy them but I honestly cant remember the last time I played one.

Tom Clancy’s The Division

(08/03/2016)
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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]A devastating pandemic sweeps through New York City, and one by one, basic services fail. In only days, without food or water, society collapses into chaos. The Division, a classified unit of self-supported tactical agents, is activated. Leading seemingly ordinary lives among us, The Division agents are trained to operate independently of command, as all else fails. Fighting to prevent the fall of society, the agents will find themselves caught up in an epic conspiracy, forced to combat not only the effects of a manmade virus, but also the rising threat of those behind it. When everything collapses, your mission begins.

Total breakdown: We live in a fragile and complex world, a web of interdependent systems we rely on every day. When one fails, others follow, creating a deadly domino effect that can cripple society in days. In Tom Clancy’s The Division™, immerse yourself in a frighteningly chaotic and devastated New York City, where all has failed. As a Division agent, your mission is to restore order, team up with other agents and take back New York.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: Well first things first there are a bare handful of games either out or in production that have in-game visuals as impressive as this. Now the graphics don’t make the game but they sure as hell don’t hurt. So there aren’t a huge amount of rpg’s out there with even a semi normal modern day setting. When it comes to MMO’s there are even less. So the setting certainly interests me, even if just because it feels a little novel. On the other hand I’m not a huge fan of first or third person PvP, I much prefer PvE stuff, especially multiplayer co-operative PvE stuff. So if The Division delivers on its promises about drop in/drop out play and its rpg elements then I think its the kind of game I could really enjoy. If it’s just another Day Z/Rust/Nether/whatever, then I likely wont bother with it at all.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided

(23/08/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]The year is 2029, and mechanically augmented humans have now been deemed outcasts, living a life of complete and total segregation from the rest of society.

Now an experienced covert operative, Adam Jensen is forced to operate in a world that has grown to despise his kind. Armed with a new arsenal of state-of-the-art weapons and augmentations, he must choose the right approach, along with who to trust, in order to unravel a vast worldwide conspiracy.[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I think the original Deus Ex is over-rated. Sure it did some pretty amazing stuff but, like a lot of classic games, it had its flaws. Now that that’s out of the way. I wish I could say I enjoyed the reboot. After all Human Revolution was a good game set in a well realised cyberpunk world that rewarded a variety of approaches. Nothing to dislike there. However I ended up playing the game in a way which totally ruined it. I’m going to avoid doing the same with this game. All that being said, while I think this will be a good game it just doesn’t really excite me. Human Revolution lacked, for want of a better term, a soul. It’s dystopia felt oddly unconvincing, it was too polished too sanitised to really sell its setting.

“My Twin Brother Made Me Crossdress As Him And Now I Have To Deal With A Geeky Stalker And A Domme Beauty Who Want Me In A Bind!!”

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]An erotic visual novel about social manipulation and girls tying up other girls, by the team that made Analogue. Ladykiller in a Bind will be out in 2015! Please look forward to it~[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Christine Love writes some of the most engaging and enjoyable visual novels out there. I’ve enjoyed all of her previous games (to greater and lesser extents) so I see no reason why I wont enjoy this. That said I’m no the huget fan of explicitly erotic stuff. Its also further down the list because despite really liking VN’s I find them hard to sit down and read/play.

100 Foot Robot Golf

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

100ft Robot Golf is a real time golf game where you get to control impossibly large robots on their quest for par. Never get your ball stuck behind a pesky tree or skyscraper ever again! Just swing your golf club to smash even the tallest buildings out of the way – or into the way of your robot golfing buddies.

Up to four players can hit the greens, cities, mountains, and orbiting moons that comprise the Robot Golf Tour Circuit. Either split-screen or online, robot golf pilots can play frantic real-time destruction golf, classic turn based action, or even custom rulesets crafted for your own custom 100ft Robot Golf round.

DESTROY YOUR WAY TO PAR

As well as allowing you to destroy any obstacle in your way, 100ft Robot Golf also gives you full control in how you enact your golfing mayhem. Select from a lineup of pilots* and robots spanning a wide range of playstyles and abilities. Want to put your own personal spin on your robot? Jump into the customization hangar and create a unique build to show off online!

(*Since we know you’re going to ask: yes, you can choose to be a pilot that is five small dogs in a suit.)

BEHIND THE GOLFING

100ft Robot Golf’s unique solo campaign mode reveals the real stories and experiences of today’s robot golf pilots. Experience the excitement, romance, and thrills of driving one hundred feet of raw golfing power through some of the cheapest ’90s-inspired mecha animation ever committed to screen.

HOOK INTO THE VIRTUAL GOLF REALITY CYBERTEE FAIRWAY

It doesn’t stop at just solo and multiplayer modes on your screen! 100ft Robot Golf also allows you to don a PlayStation VR headset to experience both golf and destruction as if you were really there. For the first time, you too can experience what it feels like to be an exclusive robot golf pilot with only one goal: a lower handicap.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This looks like silly fun. I like golf games. I love giant robots. I like the moon. Why wouldn’t I like all three? The only thing is that I don’t see myself investing in VR so I may not get to play this.

Ace Combat 7

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Putting gamers in the cockpit of the most advanced war planes ever developed, ACE COMBAT 7 delivers the fiercest air combat experience ever created through photorealistic visuals, intense dog-fighting action, a multitude of authentic and futuristic aircraft to fly, an immersive storyline, and even virtual reality!

Leveraging the power of the newest generation gaming consoles, ACE COMBAT 7 will blow players away with the evolution of its graphics engine. Beautifully rendered cloud-filled skies and highly detailed cityscapes enhance the sense of unparalleled speed and set the stage for the most engaging aerial battles in the franchise’s storied 20 year history. ACE COMBAT 7 will provide an arsenal of ultra-modern super weapons and formidable enemies that the series is known for. Aces who have proven their combat prowess in ACE COMBAT 7’s campaign mode can take their dogfighting skills online for furious online multiplayer battles.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it: The Ace Combat series has always been a nice blend of flight sim and arcade action. I enjoyed it “back in the day” but then lost interest in not just the series but honestly the genre itself. Over the last few months Elite Dangerous has re-kindled my fondness for flight sims and I’m interested in trying something with real planes. Doesnt hurt that it looks nice and will likely be stunning as a VR experience (my refusal to invest in the latter technology is why its so far down the list).

Antihero

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Run a thieves’ guild in a gas-lit city’s underworld.

Antihero is a fast-paced strategy game with an (Oliver) Twist. Recruit urchins, hire thugs, kit out your master thief, upgrade your guild… and bribe, blackmail, and assassinate your opposition.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Just being a turn based strategy game will get a look from me, add in the fact you’re running a thieves guild and some Victorian trim and you have my interest. Not a huge fan of the games visual but the setting and mechanics look solid.

Everspace

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

In EVERSPACE™ we take a more action-focused approach to the core gameplay of a space shooter and combine it with a modern, rogue-like game loop taking you on a challenging journey through an ever-changing, yet beautifully crafted universe full of surprises.

Each run will be exciting as you will have to face completely new situations. Your skills, experience and talent for improvisation will be tested continously. By this we keep each part of the game long-lasting and generate lots of individual, meaningful moments for you to experience.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I initially was interested in this as something to fill the whole that Elite: Dangerous’ online nonsense carved in my heart. Since then I’ve picked up and thoroughly enjoyed Elite:Dangerous but I’m still interested in this. It’s a sexy looking game (at this point I should just scrawl graphics whore on my forehead and cry in front of a mirror) and I do like its focus on being a singleplayer game first and foremost. Its persistent nature and what exactly it means when it says its a roguelike does worry me a bit. Roguelike has become on of those terms that’s got slapped on everything to the point where its lost all meaning (the Berlin definition of Roguelikes is crying all alone in an alley). Still, I have room in my life for a cool space action game.

Genei Ibun Roku ?FE

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Genei Ibun Roku is an RPG focused around the exploration of dungeons and turn-based party combat. When not in dungeons, the player explores familiar locations in the city of Tokyo and can interact with NPCs and visit shops. Dungeons take the form of multi-level labyrinths with light puzzle-solving and generally share a theme with the location they are found at. Within these dungeons are hostile Mirages that when touched trigger combat. The player character Itsuki is armed with a rapier while exploring the dungeon and the player can gain the initiative by stunning Mirages with a well-timed strike before starting battle.

Combat is turn-based and predicated on discovering and exploiting enemy weaknesses. As in both Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, enemies are weak to specific magic or weapon types. The weapon types are based on the weapon types from Fire Emblem (Sword, Lance, Axe and Bow) while the magic types are based on the magic from Shin Megami Tensei (Fire, Ice, Electric, Force, Expel, and Death). The player can also trigger Session Attack combos where the other party members follow up the attacking character’s blow with strikes of their own. As party members gain affinity, they can also learn Duo Arts where pairs of characters can combine their strength to deal high damage. Battle parties are restricted to a maximum of three party members at a time, but other party members can enter the battle to provide temporary assistance.

The Wii U GamePad serves a variety of functions. One prominent function that it is used for is as a communication tool. A simulation of real-life chat applications like LINE, the player can use it to allow Itsuki to communicate with other characters and advance events in the game. The GamePad UI also distinguishes content related to the main story and sidequest content.

Like in traditional Fire Emblem games, Mirages can use Master Seals to promote to new classes, with branching promotion options. For example, Shiida can promote from a Pegasus Knight to a Falcon Knight or Dragon Knight. Class changes and other character enhancements such as Carnage Unity and Radiant Unity are performed at a special location called the Bloom Palace with Tiki’s aid.

The player explores wards of Tokyo such as Shibuya and Harajuku over the course of the game and can visit shops, businesses and key story locations, as well as talk to NPCs. To travel between major sections of the city, the player selects a location from the world map.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Fuck. I just remembered this is a Wii U game. A console I don’t have. So down down down the tiers it shall plummet. Which is a shame as I really liked the look of it. I am a huge fan of the Shin Megami Tensei series and a moderate fan of the Fire Emblem series so a mashup definitely sounded cool. I have to say while I’m not sure what I expected I certainly didn’t expect something like this. But what it turned out to be looks equally cool, crazy, camp, over the top, but cool nonetheless. Damn, now I’m bummed out that its on the Wii U. Hopefully when the NX comes out Wii U prices will plummet.

Heavy Rain

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

A critically-acclaimed cinematic thriller, Heavy Rain scooped multiple awards upon its original release back in 2010 – including three BAFTA awards.

Set over a four day period, Heavy Rain weaves together the tales of four playable characters as they struggle to unmask the Origami Killer – a serial murderer who leaves folded paper shapes on his victims’ bodies.

Designed to incorporate bending storylines, the game gives players the chance to alter the plot with every decision they make. How far are you prepared to go to save someone you love? Will the killer be caught? Will the latest victim be saved? Who will die, who survives?

This, and much more, is all up to the player…

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Despite its poor critical reception I really enjoyed the original Heavy Rain. It was a frankly terrible game but a really interesting experience that did some interesting stuff with games as a medium that hasn’t really been explored much since. The idea of doing it again with better image quality does appeal. But with the mystery solved I’m not sure if I’d go back. Certainly wont be at full price.

Proven Lands

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Explore a unique, vast and beautiful voxel-based science-fiction survival game, procedurally generated and studded with an AI storyteller. Build, explore, survive from planet to planet in the new fancy sci-fi universe of Proven Lands.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:“A procedural 3D science fiction sandbox survival game” says it all really. But my ego demands I say more. I have a love hate relationship with sandbox survival games, in my head I think I love them, in practice I often hate them. They are also sprouting up like mold these days which leads to even the best feeling annoyingly similar. Proven Lands looks to be trying to distinguish itself by taking a firmer, if not outright hard, approach to sci-fi and grounding its mechanics in actual physics, chemistry, etc. Which certainly sounds cool, how well it delivers will determine if my interest was justified or not.

The Flame in the Flood

(31/12/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

From the Art Director of BioShock and a team of veterans of the BioShock, Halo, Guitar Hero and Rock Band series comes The Flame in the Flood.

Travel by foot and by raft down a procedurally-generated river as you scrounge for resources, craft tools, remedy afflictions, evade the vicious wildlife, and most importantly, stay ahead of  the coming rains.

Featuring an original full length soundtrack by acclaimed Alt-Country rocker Chuck Ragan featuring The Camaraderie, The Fearless Kin and other special guests.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:Love the soundtrack, love the look of it, love me some rogue-lite mechanics and post-apocalyptic settings. Honestly I feel I should be more excited about this because there’s nothing that doesn’t look great but for some reason it doesn’t stir my trousers that much. Possibly because I simply want to play other stuff more or possibly because I’m just an ornery varmint.

Overwatch

(Q2/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

Soldiers. Scientists. Adventurers. Oddities.

In a time of global crisis, an international task force of heroes banded together to restore peace to a war-torn world:

OVERWATCH.

It ended the crisis and helped to maintain peace in the decades that followed, inspiring an era of exploration, innovation, and discovery. But after many years, Overwatch’s influence waned, and it was eventually disbanded.

Overwatch is gone… but the world still needs heroes.

Choose A Hero

Overwatch features a wide array of unique heroes, ranging from a time-jumping adventurer, to an armored, rocket-hammer-wielding warrior, to a transcendent robot monk. Every hero plays differently, and mastering their abilities is the key to unlocking their potential. No two heroes are the same.

Play Your Role

Whether you’re engaging in combat on the front line, providing defensive cover with your energy shield, or supporting your allies by amplifying their damage, every hero’s abilities are designed to be effective as part of a team. Learning to utilize your abilities in concert with your teammates’ is the key to victory.

Team-Based Objectives

Teams of heroes do battle across the planet. From protecting the secrets of the mysterious Temple of Anubis, to safely escorting an EMP device through King’s Row, the world is your battlefield.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I really wish this game was F2P. It looks like fun but its a genre I have very mixed feelings about, to the point where I really don’t want to plunk down money on it without having a go first. If enough people I game with buy it then inertia will probably drag me in, that or my need to get Diablo cosmetics by pre-ordering.

The Tomorrow Children

(Q2/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]

For the glory of all

Work together, conquer the impossible

A disastrous experiment has melted humanity’s consciousness into a dismal mass known as the Void – and only you, brave citizen, can journey into it and recover what’s left to rebuild the human race.

Generate your projection clone from one of many classes such as Mine Workers, Engineers and Radio Officers to gather valuable resources and restore our ruined civilisation town by town.

Create Combatants and use weapons to fend off the hulking monsters threatening to reduce our work to rubble. Co-operation is key your planet needs you.

[/spoiler]

Why I want it:This is going to make me sound like a misanthropic old fuck, but I’d be more excited about this game if it wasnt strictly co-op. Aesthetically its great, the whole lomo socialist Russia thing it has going really appeals. The gameplay cycle looks intriguing. The big sticking point is the random folk you’re going to get lumbered with. If I knew more people with a PS4 who were going to play it I could be more excited about it. As it is I’m really on the fence.

Mass Effect: Andromeda

(Q4/2016)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Not much. We know its coming, that its set in the future of the universe and in a different galaxy. Probably going to be filled with the same Bioware nonsense, though we can hope they have the cop-on to rip-off something like The Witcher 3[/spoiler]

Why I want it:I loved the first Mass Effect game and was less and less impressed with its sequels to the point where Mass Effect 3 killed the franchise for me entirely. I’ve also soured a bit on Bioware to be honest, while Inquisition was enjoyable I just don’t like the style of game they put out anymore. So this is here because, well its sort of too big to ignore, fond memories of the original and the promise of a space western approach. True to form though I’m expecting to be underwhelmed.

Fever dreams

Games whose existence has been announced but little else. There’s not much to go on for these other than a name and a rough idea and the majority of them are unlikely to make it out in 2014.

Cartel

(??/??/??)(PC)

What’s the deal: This is basically Paradox’s take on the classic version of Syndicate. There arent a lot of details available at the moment, nor even an official release. All the details are from interviews such as this one – and they sound awesome. I loved the original Syndicate and was a big fan of Syndicate Wars as well (though I feel it failed to capture the brilliance of the first game). I am most definitely interested in seeing Paradox, a company whose output appears a lot on this list, taking a crack at Syndicate.

deep down

(??/??/16)(PS4)

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What they say: Very, very little so far. Basically that its F2P and “Deep Down’s gameplay consists of that of a dungeon crawler, which involves the player exploring dungeons based on the memories collected on artifacts. Weapons such as spears and swords can be utilized.”

Why I want it: Dragon’s Dogma was one of the best games of last generation. This looks like something of a spiritual successor and the trailer looks amazing.

Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr

(30/12/1899)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Not a huge amount so far. But what theyve said all sounds good – support for lots of different types of Inquisitors, a gear and crafting system that fits in with the universes lore, etc. [/spoiler]

Why I want it: Inquisitors are one of my favourite things about the Imperium and the Imperium is my favourite thing about 40K. A game where you can play as one is something I’m going to pay attention to from the outset.

Space Hulk Deathwing

(30/12/1899)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Space Hulk®: Deathwing™ is a First-Person Shooter experience of Games Workshop’s classic Space Hulk boardgame set in the universe of Warhammer 40,000.[/spoiler]

Why I want it: While I may have escaped stating it in the entry above lets make it clear, I will be at least interested in any game set in the 40K universe because it’s one of my favourite fictional universes. This game seems to be a more actiony adaptation of Spacehulk which is both a fun boardgame and great idea for the game. Because who doesnt love the idea of Aliens (the Gieger kind) vs Power Armoured Killer Monks?

Vampyr

(30/12/1899)

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[spoiler title = ‘What they say:’]Nothing really[/spoiler]

Why I want it:There is very little to go on at the moment. But what is there gives me very strong old World of Darkness Vampire The Masquerade vibes. Which I surprisingly found intriguing. Perhaps its a precursor of vampries poised to make a comeback in the every cyclical entertainment media cycle?

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