Summer Game Fest 2024: Biggest Announcements
Geoff Keighley’s annual Summer Game Fest kicked off with a bang, delivering an exciting keynote full of announcements and updates on highly anticipated titles. From Lego Horizon Adventures to Phantom Blade Zero, here are the biggest reveals that gamers need to know about.
Lego Horizon Adventures: A New Twist on a PlayStation Favorite
The Summer Game Fest started off on an unexpected note with Lego Horizon Adventures. This game takes the beloved open-world PlayStation-exclusive franchise about hunting robot dinosaurs and gives it a LEGO makeover. Not only is it now available for two-player co-op, but it’s also no longer exclusive to PlayStation consoles. Lego Horizon Adventures will launch later this year on PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC. While it may be a departure from its predecessors, this fresh take on the Horizon series could be a welcome change for fans.
Neva: A Beautiful Blend of Action and Adventure
From the creators of the stunning puzzle game Gris comes Neva, an upcoming side-scrolling action-adventure. Nomada Studio’s latest offering promises a more complex gameplay experience than their previous title, incorporating combat into the mix. However, the hand-drawn visuals remain as striking as ever. Neva is set to release on all major gaming platforms later this year, giving players the chance to embark on a visually captivating journey.
Civilization VII: The Return of a Strategy Legend
The words “Sid Meier’s Civilization VII” speak volumes to strategy game enthusiasts. The legendary turn-based strategy series is making a comeback, and while the cinematic trailer may not have revealed much about the game itself, Civilization fans can rest easy knowing that the franchise continues. Set to release next year, Civilization VII will be available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch. The expansion to multiple platforms is an exciting development for fans of the series.
Blumhouse Games: Horror Meets Gaming
Blumhouse Productions, known for their successful horror movies, is now venturing into the gaming industry. During the Summer Game Fest, they showcased a sizzle reel of intriguing horror-based games, including one that combines elements of Stardew Valley with a lurking monster on a farm. Creators like Sam Barlow and Brandon Cronenberg were also mentioned, adding to the excitement surrounding Blumhouse Games. While platform information for these games is yet to be announced, horror enthusiasts can look forward to immersive gaming experiences.
Slitterhead: A Nightmare Come to Life
Keiichiro Toyama, the creator of Silent Hill, unveiled his latest game, Slitterhead, at the Summer Game Fest. This gameplay reveal showcased a dark and eerie world where players navigate city streets and alleyways, jumping between the bodies of human bystanders while battling terrifying nightmare creatures. Although the combat may appear clunky to some, it stays true to the style that Silent Hill fans know and love. Slitterhead is scheduled for release on November 8 for PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series consoles.
Cairn: A Dangerous Mountain to Conquer
The Game Bakers, known for their unique indie games Furi and Haven, are back with Cairn. This game takes players on a treacherous journey up a mountain, a departure from their previous action-oriented titles. With its dangerous setting and stunning visuals, Cairn promises to offer a fresh and thrilling experience. Expect to see Cairn launch on PC and consoles in 2025.
Wanderstop: A Quirky Adventure Awaits
Davey Wreden, the creator of metatextual narrative adventures The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide, surprised fans with his upcoming game, Wanderstop. Unlike his previous works, Wanderstop appears to be a peaceful cartoon tea shop simulation set in a fantasy world. However, Wreden’s signature twists may be lurking beneath the surface. Wanderstop is set to release on PS5 and PC later this year.
Alan Wake II DLC: Expanding an Acclaimed Game
Alan Wake II, crowned as the best video game of 2023, is receiving DLC that will be available on June 8. This expansion introduces three new playable characters, including Jesse Faden from Control, which was hailed as the best game of 2019. With these exciting additions, fans of both games can look forward to a thrilling new chapter.
Skate: A Long-Awaited Revival
After years of anticipation, Electronic Arts finally revealed a new trailer for the revival of the Skate series. While the gameplay shown was limited, the trailer introduced comedian Tim Robinson as part of the project. Although Skate is still a work in progress, console play tests are planned for this fall, giving fans hope for an immersive skateboarding experience.
Phantom Blade Zero: Samurai Action Unleashed
Phantom Blade Zero made waves with its new gameplay trailer at the Summer Game Fest. Designed for fans of high-octane action games, this title offers skill-based samurai combat with intense finishing moves. With its release slated for PS5 and PC, players can prepare for a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping adventure.
The Summer Game Fest showcased a diverse range of games, catering to various gaming preferences. From LEGO adaptations to horror experiences and strategy classics, there is something for every gamer to look forward to in the coming months and years. The event not only provided exciting announcements but also generated anticipation and buzz within the gaming community.