We’ve had about a week and a half to digest 2018’s E3 Expo. With the unfortunate trends of game delays and rushed, incomplete productions, we try to not get caught up too much in the hype. However, we wanted to cover some of what we thought were the winners of the conference as well as our most anticipated titles.
Super Smash Bros: Ultimate
Platform: Switch | Release Date: December 7 2018
Fred’s Thoughts
Like I said in our Fighting Games post, Super Smash Bros is at the top of my list for this genre.
The big reveal for the newest release of this franchise is that you will be able to play with every single video game character ever created. This is only a slight exaggeration.
There’s also an array of the interactive levels that I’ve grown to love.
It probably goes without saying that I pre-ordered this game as soon as it was available.
There’s also a bunch of excitement about the resurgence of directional air dashing, which was introduced in Melee and added another layer of sophistication to the battles.
Ultimate looks like just what I need to get re-addicted to SSB.
The Ghost of Tsushima
Platform: PS4 | Release Date: ~ Q4 2019
Julian’s Thoughts
My mouth may have been open the entire time watching this trailer. I have always yearned for a “realistic” close combat game. Whether it was a gladiators, Spartans, ninjas, or samurais, producing a pleasing game which incorporates sword play has always been a challenge.
Usually developers take the easy road and give you super natural powers like super speed, increased strength and a healing factor, among others. This game seems to just do things right. And with a minimalist/nonexistent player HUD, just look at the graphics. Sheesh!
Pokemon, Let’s Go Pikachu & Eevee
Platform: Switch | Release Date: November 16, 2018
Fred’s Thoughts
I’ll start by saying I’m very happy that I kept up casual maintenance of my Pokemon Go account (add me so we can be friends! Trainer code 8926 0168 6100).
This switch title was my second pre-order following SSB. If you don’t know why Pokemon is exciting, go check out this post.
Conceptually, I really like the idea of being able to share progress between a game on my phone and a game on a console. A few games have done this in the past (Uncharted 4 released at the same time as a mobile mini game that allowed you to unlock things on your console account) which worked really well.
If Nintendo does this properly, this is sure to become one of the most popular games on the Switch.
Overcooked 2
Platform: Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Steam | Release Date: August 7, 2018
Julian’s Thoughts
Overcooked has been one of the most surprisingly satisfying games I’ve ever played. While I would have been happy with more expansions released for the first one, this second seems to build upon the shenanigans and is going to offer even more as far as gameplay.
An expanded menu, added characters, and more dynamics to levels are some of my early catches. Can’t wait to see what the team comes up as the release date approaches. See you in the kitchen! I need more onions!
The Last of Us 2
Platform: PS4 | Release Date: 2019
Julian’s Thoughts
The sequel to one of my favorite games of all time looks like it will live up to the hype. I already know the story will deliver as it is a Naughty Dog production. I am still waiting on multiplayer news to see how they will build upon one of best PvP experiences ever.
I’m hoping for a mode that includes the infected and a mode with more than two 4-man teams. It doesn’t have to be battle royale, as that is the flavor of the year, but having three or four 4-man squads would add great potential to a legendary experience.
Fred’s Thoughts
I’m one of those people who plays the multiplayer mode of a game before getting to the campaign mode. I did this with the original TLOU and was mad at myself for waiting a year to guide Joel through his epic journey.
The second entrant into the series will likely take over my life — effectively reducing my weekly Fortnite hours to single digits — when it comes out, but that’s ok. The new fighting mechanics and crafting built on top of one of the most compelling story lines has me predicting several Game of the Year honors for Part II.
Lots to Look Forward To
E3 2018 had plenty of other great titles to look forward to.
At a time when Fortnite has asserted its dominance in the gaming world, it’s great to see the fresh new things that developers are introducing to change the way we think about video games.
What games are you most looking forward to?
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