The August 2024 games lineup is surprisingly heavy with releases based on a galaxy far, far, away, and a colourful, expansive JRPG world to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the bigger releases!
Black Myth: Wukong (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
Publisher: Game ScienceDeveloper: Game SciencePrice: $59.99Release Date: August 20Trailer
Following upElden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, Black Myth Wukongseems to be the next epic action RPG to get excited about. Steeped in Chinese mythology, this game has us play as the Destined One trying to complete their journey to the West. We’ll be using a staff, in addition to multiple spells, abilities, weapons, and equipment to help vanquish the foes that stand in our way. If the game’s visuals are anything like the gameplay trailers so far, we should be in for an eye-pleasing treat as well.
Keep in mind, however, that there has been analleged problematic work culturewithin Game Science,as reported by IGN.
Concord (PS5, PC)
Publisher: PlayStationDeveloper: Firewalk StudiosPrice: $39.99Release Date: August 23Trailer
I have to admit, I wasn’t sure ifConcordshould make the most anticipated list for the August 2024 games lineup, but it is a first-party game from one of the industry’s brightest publishers, PlayStation. Trying to take a bite from the live-service audience who plays games likeOverwatchandPaladins,this hero shooter stars vibrant personalities with wildly different playstyles.
These Freegunners charge into their foes head-on in Braun Strowman-like WWE fashion, use a vacuum as an offensive weapon, and can see through walls utilizing stealth abilities. It does feel different from its competition, but the game doesn’t seem to stand out in a crowded market, especially after a poor first impression with PlayStation fans. It feelslate to the partyfor many. At least there will be some sort of narrative element with a new cutscene released every week. Hopefully, it will overcome the odds and become a success when it launches on August 23.
Madden NFL 25 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
Publisher: EADeveloper: TiburonPrice: $69.99Release Date: August 16Trailer
America’s favorite pastime is back in the gaming world withMadden NFL 25after the successful debut ofCollege Football 25.In this year’sMadden,EA has FieldSense which has anew physics-based tackling systemthat “unlocks realistic collisions and new gameplay animations on both sides of the ball,” according to thegame’s Steam page. There’s also a new Ball Carrier Balance System alongside other features to make the game hopefully more realistic than ever.
Those looking for new plays on the pitch will be happy withMadden NFL 25.EA says they’re “from some of the game’s most inventive team playbooks.” If you pre-order theNFL 25Deluxe Edition, you can get three days of early access.
Star Wars Outlaws (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
Publisher: UbisoftDeveloper: Massive EntertainmentPrice: $69.99Release Date: August 30Trailer
Star Wars Outlawsis Ubisoft’s next huge open-world game to explore, and this time we’ll be taking the role of a bounty hunter Kay Vess, who is accepting high-stakes missions across the galaxy. Your decisions will make an impact as your allegiances with factions in the game determine Kay’s future and reputation. In addition to shooting foes with your blaster and exploring the first open-worldStar Warsgame, you’ll be flying into space with the Trailblazer. You’ll even take part in dogfights against the likes of the Stormtroopers and pirates among the stars.
Ourpreviewsaid the space combat plays similarly toStar Wars Squadrons,stating that “Dodging asteroids and space debris while flying around and dealing with enemies is always a good time, and it looks like the systems for doing so are a big part ofStar Wars Outlawsrather than just an added sub-feature.”
Visions of Mana (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
Publisher: Square EnixDeveloper: Square EnixPrice: $59.99Release Date: August 29Trailer
Visions of Manaseems to strike many aspects of a JRPG fans crave from the genre. It has vibrant graphics with an anime-inspired art style, a seemingly fast-paced action-RPG combat system, and large open areas to explore with different biomes to find. You can also ride on an adorable dog-like creature called a pikul. This is a big deal for many Square Enix fans asthis will be the first newManagame in 15 years.
“The open zones and linear battle sections tying together, with elemental traversal and good, solid action, layered over with great art and music, all give me the feeling of booting up an RPG classic on a Saturday morning,” saidour preview.
Honorable Mentions
The August 2024 games lineup is jam-packed with exciting titles, so it was difficult to choose just five games to feature in this article. For example, there’s a promising indie sequelCat Quest IIIon the horizon. The nextWorld of Warcraftexpansion is also heading our way.
