Now that the showcases from Summer Game Fest are over, it’s time to dive into the actual games. While trailers can give us a taste of what’s to come, nothing beats actually playing a demo to get a feel for an upcoming game. That’s where Steam Next Fest comes in. This platform event is known for its demo-rich offerings, allowing players to try out several games they saw at the show.
Having played several demos myself, I wanted to share the games that I connected with the most. Here are the demos that I believe deserve recognition:
1. Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn – With its unique blend of steampunk and mysticism, this third-person action game stood out with its captivating art design and story. While the demo ran into some technical issues on my computer, the gameplay was solid.
2. Trash Goblin – If you’re a fan of cozy fantasy games, this one is for you. It revolves around cleaning and upcycling junk, offering a simple gameplay loop with room for expansion and refinement.
3. The Operator – This analog horror game puts you in the shoes of an operator for a not-FBI organization. Despite some placeholder voice acting, the demo provides an excellent glimpse into the game’s thrilling story, complete with a big twist at the end.
4. The Alters – While it may look like an action-adventure game, The Alters plays more like a thriller-strategy title. Though the controls can be a bit fiddly at times, the game has a great story hook to build on.
5. Fantastic Haven – Think fantasy Zoo Tycoon. In this game, you must build a sanctuary for endangered fantasy animals in a world where magic is diminishing. While it shares similarities with other zoo management sims, the enchanting setting sets it apart.
6. Tiny Bookshop – Step into the shoes of a bookshop manager on wheels in this adorable game set in a beautiful seaside town. The graphics are charming, and the atmosphere is relaxing, although player input may feel limited at times.
7. Spilled! – In this cozy game, you pilot a boat to clean up spilled oil and trash in bodies of water. The gameplay loop is simple yet effective. It would be great to see the developer partner with a conservation charity to raise awareness.
8. Dungeons of Hinterberg – This colorful action-RPG promises a fun exploration experience, although the combat can feel a bit simplistic. The puzzles and adventure make up for it, providing an enjoyable demo experience.
While I take a break from demos to explore some Game Pass releases, such as Still Wakes the Deep and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, I hope you find these recommendations helpful in deciding which games to try out at Steam Next Fest.
In addition to these demos, GamesBeat is excited to partner with Lil Snack to bring customized games for our audience. This collaboration offers an engaging way to play and interact with GamesBeat content that you already love.
If you’re looking for more gaming options, here’s a list of new releases and games available on subscription services:
New Releases:
– Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
– Still Wakes the Deep
– Dystopika
– Times & Galaxy
– Skye: The Misty Isle
– Metal Slug Attack Reloaded
– Echo Generation: Midnight Edition
Subscription Services:
– My Time at Sandrock (Xbox Game Pass)
– Keplerth (Xbox Game Pass)
– Monster Hunter Rise (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Football Manager 2024 (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Crusader Kings III (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Monster Energy Supercross – The Official Videogame 6 (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– After Us (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Anno 1800 (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Police Simulator: Patrol Officers (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Far Cry 4 (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– LEGO The Hobbit (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– LEGO The Incredibles (PlayStation Plus Extra+Premium)
– Kayak VR: Mirage (PlayStation Plus Premium)
– LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy (PlayStation Plus Premium)
– Ghosthunter (PlayStation Plus Premium)
– Daxter (PlayStation Plus Premium)
– As Dusk Falls (GeForce Now)
– Tell Me Why (GeForce Now)
– Perfect Dark (Nintendo Switch Online)
– The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past – Four Swords (Nintendo Switch Online)
– Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (Nintendo Switch Online)
– Metroid: Zero Mission (Nintendo Switch Online)
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Happy gaming!
