New Game News - AUGUST 2021
(This article will focus on new game releases, not necessarily games that launched previously but have their next-gen versions arriving, but may include major game seasonal updates or expansions, or "major" ports.)
The first half of any gaming year always feels like a new game drought compared to the massive lead up to when the zombies break through the glass and release the deluge of new game releases up to Holiday. This year has felt especially light with so many games getting delayed thanks to COVID. 2020 saw delays, but with so many amazing games getting pushed to 2022 there has been a covid sized gap. That being said, there are still plenty of amazing games slated for the second half of 2021, and August is kicking off the monthly deluge. I am personally really excited because August marks the launch of three games that made it onto my most anticipated list with Recompile, Aliens Fireteam Elite, and Naraka Bladepoint.
"New Game News" showcases some major game releases of the month! Scroll down to see if any of the major releases appeal to you!
1. New World
Release Date: 8/31
Platforms: PC
Developer: Amazon Games Studios
Publisher: Amazon Games Studios
Is Amazon finally going to have their first actual successful game launch? To say that Amazon has had it rough trying to get into videotapes is putting it very mildly. Countless cancelled projects, one game that got "unreleased" and cancelled in the same year, and industry leaks about the mismanagement and lack of direction at Amazon's gaming studio, all made me not holding my breath for New World. Amazon's big new MMO however, hopes to change things for Amazon, as so far the early beta tests have been very positive for players. With the full release finally arriving soon, players will soon be able to get a bigger better look at the new title.
2. Naraka Bladepoint
Release Date: 8/12
Platforms: PC
Developer: 24 Entertainment, Hangzhou 24 Entertainment Network Tech Co
Publisher: 24 Entertainment, Hangzhou 24 Entertainment Network Tech Co
One of the games releasing this month that I was looking forward to is Baraka Bladepoint. The feudal Japan era Battle Royale game promises to bring a much needed fresh take on the popular genre. We get beautiful fantasy Japan style art and a fresh vertical melee focused gameplay.
3. No More Heroes 3
Release Date: 8/27
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Grasshopper Manufacture
Publisher: Grasshopper Manufacture
Have you said recently, "Gosh I could really go for a ultra weird looking extra-anime game for my Switch"? Well then No More Heroes 3 may just be the game for you. This odd look third installment is something fans of the series have been looking forward to, and is coming out exclusively for Nintendo Switch
4. Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut
Release Date: 8/20
Platforms: PS4, PS5
Developer: Sucker Punch Productions
Publisher: Sony
One of my regrets from last year is missing out on Ghost of Tsushima. I was busy trying to finish The Last of Us 1 in preparation for 2's release that I missed Tsushima. It honestly looked like a beautiful game, and with all it's praise as a GOTY nom, players get a chance to explore the even longer, and improved version of Tsushima with this Directors Cut. More than just a "PS5" upgrade, this is a new updated version with even more content, coming to PS5 and PS4.
5. Hunters Arena Legends
Release Date: 8/3
Platforms: PC, New on PS4 & PS5. Available free with PS Plus.
Developer: Mantisco
Publisher: Mantisco
I'm not going to lie, this game has a lot of things going against it. No one has heard of it. I watch new game lists, gaming news, and the indie scene closer than most and I never heard of this game. It also happens to have the most boring, forgettable, fake Facebook ad looking, name ever. I say the title and I just picture a bad CGI Facebook ad for a bad clone of some clicker. However, despite looking a lot like Baraka and every other Facebook ad game, Hunter's Arena Legends will actually be a free Playstation Plus launch game. Usually the PS5 launch titles have been games that rely on being "temporarily free" to garner a huge following. For some that strategy has worked brilliantly like Fall Guys. For others, it has not. I can't really argue with free (with plus) though so for no other reason than that, it might be worth a look.
6. Recompile
Release Date: 8/19
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Developer: Phigames
Publisher: Dear Villagers
One game that I am looking froward to most on this month's list is Recompile. Ever since I first game across this game's initial announcement, I have had it on my most anticipated lists. First, I love when indie developers give us full 3D third person games. Secondly, I love it when they execute incredible and unique art style and visuals while doing so. Recompile is just a d and cool looking game that ever since first look; I just can't wait to get my hands on.
6. Psychonauts 2
Release Date: 8/25
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One,
Developer: Doublefine
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
7. Madden 22
Release Date: 8/17
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
Developer: EA
Publisher: EA
SPORTSBALL! Seriously though, just play any previous Madden and tell me what's the difference. Copy, Paste, click, delete, add number, is not a solid game development strategy for me.
8. Aliens Fireteam Elite
Release Date: 8/24
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC
Developer: Cold Iron Studio
Publisher: Cold Iron Studio
Another game that I hope succeeds is Aliens Fireteam Elite. The Aliens franchise has had great games and awful games. This formula of a multiplayer co-op hoard mode shooter is a formula that has been done before and can go either way. I just hope that the execution and quality is there. I think this is one of those games that will depend on having a good friend to play with.
As always, stay tuned here on Game Infinite News for the latest gaming news! Check back next month for New Game Tuesday!
