We’re back with more game talk! Let’s catch up with the team to see what’s up!
The summer games showcase season has finally wrapped up and we thought we’d share some upcoming titles that we’re interested in.
One game I found innovative and fun recently is After School Grounds (방과후 운동장).
At first glance, it looks like another Vampire Survivors-style survival game, so the core gameplay itself is not completely new. However, what makes it stand out is how it connects with Korean streaming platforms and allows viewers to directly participate in the streamer’s gameplay. For example, a streamer can set donation options such as $1 to summon 10 enemies on the field, or $5 to drop a healing item. This means fans can either help or interfere with the streamer in real time. Even more interestingly, it seems that viewers can actually appear as enemies and chase the player around.
I thought this was a very unique and modern approach to game design.
As streaming platforms, streamer culture, and screen time continue to grow, this kind of interactive system feels like a perfect combination for the current generation of gamers and viewers.
— Justin J, Asst Project Manager
Out of all the incredible titles showcased at Summer Game Fest, two games stand out as my absolute must-plays.
First is Kingdom Hearts 4. I am incredibly eager to dive into an entirely new setting and continue unraveling the franchise’s wonderfully complex narrative.
The second is the remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
While some might see it as just another remake, this particular title is an absolute classic for me. Having played both of these franchises since childhood, they hold immense sentimental value.
My expectations are incredibly high, and I am genuinely hoping these upcoming releases live up to the legacy of their predecessors.
— Kevin D, Client Success
While I do not consider myself a Nintendo gamer, I often spend a lot of time thinking about how they approach gaming and the interesting ways they stay relevant and innovative in a highly competitive environment. Many found this latest Nintendo Direct humdrum, but I found it just as interesting as any other.
One title which stood out was Rhythm Heaven Groove. Music games have really fallen off since the crash of Guitar Heroes but this game appeals to different audience more interested in a quirky party-game feel, with lots of variety, more similar to Mario Party or Warioware than notes-streaming from the sky approach. The art direction is nostalgic and has a nice flair for the ridiculous that appeals to fans of niche titles like Katamari Damacy, LSD: Dream Emulator, or Incredible Crisis</>.
The Pokémon series is a major part of gaming pop culture, but Pokémon Pokopia takes a different path. I really like how Nintendo is once again reshaping Pokémon from “enslaved pets forced to fight so you can climb the ladder” into a gentler, friendship-building experience that feels closer to Animal Crossing. Fans of the more cozy side of Pokémon may want to check out Pokémon Snap or Pokémon Friends.
No longer a fan of being strapped to a desk at home like at work, I welcome the chance to try Runescape on console – from the comfort of my couch! RuneScape Dragonwilds looks exciting and kinda bare bones which I find appealing.
Critics of the series say every game in the Dynasty Warriors series is the exact same – they are both right and wrong. IYKYK. Regardless, Dynasty Warriors 3: Complete Edition Remastered (wow that title…) aims to bring the fight back to ancient China with new features and improvements which empower would-be generals to, once again, slash their way to glory… against the same foes they’ve probably defeated countless times. I can’t wait!!
While not a big fan of FPS-type experience, Magicians: The Devil’s Deal has a unique visual style and aims to delight fans of more magical skills and abilities which is right up my alley. Probably worth considering if you like games like Lichdom: Battlemage or Immortals of Aveum but want that industrial age, victorian culture aesthetic so popular now.
In the wake of the huge titles with 20min long features are cute and art-driven games like Vivarium. I always appreciate titles which look to appeal to gamers who want a more focused, less dopamine-splashing jaunt which takes it time to reveal the secrets and small moments that make a title feel made just for you.
Last, and top of my list of anticipated titles is No Rest for the Wicked.
I’m a big fan of cross-platform titles and I’m ready for this one. The promise of camaraderie, action, and open class customization really fits my taste. I’m not the biggest fan of Souls-like and games with 3D jumping but this adventure looks worth it.
— Mace T, Project Manager
Thanks for hanging out with us and seeing what we’re looking forward to in the world of games!
See you next time!!