Summer Game Fest Play Days in Los Angeles recently hosted a showcase of exciting upcoming PlayStation 5 titles. The PlayStation Blog team had the opportunity to explore and experience a range of new and intriguing games set to hit the console in the near future. Here, we delve into the standout titles from the event, each with unique features and gameplay mechanics that promise to capture the interest of gamers worldwide.
### Crimson Desert | Anticipated Release: 2025
Developed and published by Pearl Abyss, Crimson Desert promises to deliver a richly detailed open-world experience with a focus on intricate melee combat. Set in a vast medieval fantasy landscape, the game allows players to engage in dynamic battles using a variety of combat techniques. Players can seamlessly transition between kicks, grapples, powerful slices, and leaping attacks, creating a combat style reminiscent of fighting games such as Soul Calibur. Adding to the excitement, players can infuse their melee attacks with elemental magic, like ice and thunder, or call in artillery strikes to decimate enemy hordes.
The open world of Crimson Desert is expansive, with Pearl Abyss estimating it would take over two hours to traverse the game’s continent on horseback. Players can expect to encounter familiar tropes of the genre, such as summoning mounts, freeing enemy strongholds, and facing off against epic bosses. For fans of open-world games and deep combat systems, Crimson Desert is definitely a title to keep an eye on.
### Crisol: Theater of Idols | Anticipated Release: 2025
From Blumhouse Games and Vermila Studios, Crisol: Theater of Idols transports players to a reimagined steampunk version of Spain, where they must fight for survival against eerie animatronic creatures. In this game, protagonist Gabriel utilizes his own blood as ammunition, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay. As players navigate the cursed town of Tormentosa, they must tread carefully, as every reload depletes Gabriel’s health. However, Gabriel can replenish his health by absorbing blood from defeated enemies and corpses.
The game’s atmosphere is tense, with weapon-wielding statues of saints presenting constant threats. Players must remain composed and purposeful in their actions to survive. The game’s unique mechanics and beautifully twisted world make it a compelling experience for those seeking a challenging adventure.
### Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2 | Release Date: August 5
Sega and CyberConnect2 are set to release Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2, perfectly timed with the upcoming Demon Slayer movie, Infinity Castle. The game follows key arcs from the anime series, including The Entertainment District and The Swordsmith Village, offering players deeper battle mechanics and cinematic sequences in single-player mode. A new gear system allows players to customize their Demon Slayers, enhancing their skills and traits to suit individual playstyles.
The Versus Mode is robust, featuring a roster of over 40 characters, including all nine Hashira and new Upper Rank demons. The enhanced assist and combo system aligns with modern fighting game standards, providing a standalone experience for competitive players.
### Directive 8020 | Release Date: October 2
Supermassive Games introduces Directive 8020, a horror game that takes place in the vastness of space. Known for their cinematic storytelling and branching narratives, Supermassive Games once again delivers a compelling experience where players’ choices significantly impact the story. The game introduces players to a space-faring crew who encounter clones of themselves, leading to tension and distrust among the team.
The game’s branching choices and butterfly effect mechanics ensure that no two playthroughs are the same. Players can utilize the Turning Points system to revisit key decisions, offering the opportunity to alter the narrative and uncover different story paths.
### FBC: Firebreak | Release Date: June 17
FBC: Firebreak, developed by Remedy, is a cooperative shooter set in the paranormal universe of Control. Launching on PlayStation Plus Extra, the game challenges players to fend off Hiss invaders and complete objectives through teamwork and strategy. Players select a Crisis Kit, which includes weapons and bombs, alongside a signature tool that enhances team abilities when used collaboratively.
In a mission involving sinister sticky notes, players must work together to destroy them using water and electrical attacks. The game’s unique cooperative mechanics make it a standout in the genre, with post-launch content available at no additional cost.
### Grave Seasons | Anticipated Release: 2025
Blumhouse Games and Perfect Garbage bring a unique twist to the farming sim genre with Grave Seasons. Set in Ashenridge, players cultivate crops while unraveling a murder mystery involving a serial killer. Each playthrough presents a different culprit, keeping players engaged as they gather clues and build relationships.
The game’s combination of cozy farming mechanics and horror elements creates a captivating experience, with the added twist of a romanceable killer.
### Mixtape | Anticipated Release: 2025
Annapurna Interactive and Beethoven & Dinosaur’s Mixtape offers a nostalgic journey through music and memories. The protagonist, Stacy Rockford, embarks on a high school adventure, crafting the perfect playlist that defines her experiences. The game seamlessly blends visual storytelling with a curated soundtrack, creating a unique narrative experience.
Players will explore moments of teenage life, from late-night drives to first kisses, all set to the backdrop of iconic music tracks. Mixtape promises to be an emotional and immersive experience for players who appreciate the power of music.
### Shinobi: Art of Vengeance | Release Date: August 29
The iconic Shinobi series returns with Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, developed by Sega and Lizardcube. Players assume the role of Joe Musashi, who battles the nefarious ENE Corp to protect his clan. The game combines exploration with action, allowing players to discover new paths and secrets as they acquire abilities and ninpo techniques.
Combat is fast-paced, with special moves and items adding depth to the gameplay. The return of the Shinobi series is a nostalgic journey for fans, blending traditional elements with modern gameplay mechanics.
### Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds | Release Date: September 25
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, developed by Sonic Team, is a tribute to Sega’s iconic characters and history. The game features a diverse roster, including surprise entrants like Hatsune Miku and Ichiban Kasuga. A unique mid-race world warping mechanic allows players to alter the course, creating strategic opportunities to gain an advantage over rivals.
The game’s engaging banter and character interactions add to the fun, making each race feel distinct. With its strategic elements and homage to Sega’s legacy, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a must-play for fans of the franchise.
These promising titles showcased at the Summer Game Fest are set to deliver innovative and engaging experiences to PlayStation fans. Each game offers something unique, whether it’s intense combat, strategic decision-making, or nostalgic storytelling. As these games approach their release dates, anticipation continues to build for the exciting adventures they promise to bring to the PlayStation 5.
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