By Macy Santicola, Advertising Manager
As the “Back to School” products line the shelves of nearly every store, we’re reminded that classes are right around the corner. With classes come assignments, studying and exams. If you’re looking ahead for a well-needed distraction, 2018 holds a promising lineup of video games releasing across multiple platforms.
Most of the buzzworthy games are sequels or new installments into already beloved and widely popular franchises. The Electronic Entertainment Expo, also known as E3, was held this year in June and developers and publishers of the video game industry announced numerous projects during its two day run. Among those projects are the five I’ve chosen to highlight here for their fan anticipation, addition of new features to veteran game franchises, and nostalgia.
5. Spyro: Reignited Trilogy
“Spyro: Reignited Trilogy” is coming to Playstation 4 and Xbox One on Sept. 21 and is the first release in the Spyro franchise since 2008. The game is a complete remastering of the first three games in the franchise: “Spyro the Dragon,” “Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!” and “Spyro: Year of the Dragon.”
Lifelong gamers will be able to relive all of the nostalgia of the Playstation 1 trilogy with stunning new graphics and revamped gameplay. Newcomers to the series can enjoy all three casual games for the price of one. The remastered trilogy will surely make for a fun break from writing essays.
4. Red Dead Redemption II
“Red Dead Redemption II” is the second installment to 2010’s western “Red Dead Redemption” by Rockstar Games and is set twelve years before the first game. While it features the main character from the first installment, players will be taking command of a new character. The prequel is set to release Oct. 26, but not much is known about the gameplay and the full story, which was likely done to drum up more anticipation and hype. There’s still plenty of time to play the first game or do a replay in preparation for the release.
If the original game is anything to go by, “Red Dead Redemption II” will surely feature rich storytelling, an expansive western world to explore, and plenty of side activities to provide hours of immersion. All nighter, anyone? Check out the trailer here.
3. Fallout 76
“Fallout 76” is the latest entry in Bethesda’s post-apocalyptic franchise. This story takes place prior to all the other Fallout games and is set in West Virginia in 2102. According to a Gamespot article, some real West Virginia locations that have been confirmed are the West Virginia State Capitol, The Greenbrier, Woodburn Circle, New River Gorge Bridge, and Camden Park.
What makes “Fallout 76” different from the other entries is that it’s entirely online based, meaning that the characters you meet in the game will be other players, and you’ll be allowed to play in groups with friends or strangers and participate in Fallout’s classic survival activities like looting. The game is set to be released Nov. 14 across PC, PS4, and Xbox One, so get your squad ready!
2. Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu/Eevee!
“Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu/Eevee!” are two versions of the latest Pokemon game for the Nintendo Switch. The game will be released on Nov. 16 and also features connections to the mobile game “Pokemon GO,” including bring the Pokemon that were caught in the app into the Switch game.
This new installment to the Pokemon franchise is reminiscent of “Pokemon Yellow” in that it’s set in the Kanto region, the original Pokemon region, and allows your starter Pokemon (Pikachu or Eevee, depending on which version you buy) to follow your character around the game as a close companion. The new game features a new way to catch Pokemon with a flick of the wrist using the Switch’s controller. The latest Pokemon game is perfect for casual gamers, both new to and veterans of the Pokemon series, and will also feature a two-player mode so your friend or roommate can join in on the fun!
1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
“Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” is another addition to Nintendo Switch’s game roster and is the largest Smash Bros. game yet with 66 characters. Every playable character from the franchise will be featured in the latest game, including a few new additions.
This series has been a Nintendo staple for years, and is a go-to game for to stir up some competition among friends. The game has online capabilities, and multiplayer through the Switch. The game is set to release on Dec. 7, just in time for those much needed final exam study breaks.
Photo Credit: Rockstar Games