Get ready gamers, because 2024 is shaping up to be a wild ride. The next couple of years were all about the current console generation settling in, finding its groove in the wake of global chip shortages and pandemic-related disruptions. Now, developers are finally ready to really flex the muscles of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, leaving the limitations of cross-gen development behind in a cloud of pixelated dust.
Let’s start with the big-name sequels that are already generating plenty of online discourse. On the horizon is “Hellblade 2: Senua’s Saga,” the follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2017 original from Ninja Theory. That first game was a haunting journey into a mind fractured by psychosis, delivered with shocking realism. The sequel promises an even deeper dive into Senua’s struggle, rendered with the kind of visual fidelity that the current generation can truly deliver. If we get to see it.
Speaking of jaw-dropping visuals, there’s “Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora” on the docket. We all remember James Cameron’s epic sci-fi film, groundbreaking in its time. This game aims to bring that same sense of wonder and scale to home consoles, immersing players in the lush, alien world of Pandora. Ubisoft’s expertise in crafting sprawling open worlds, combined with the power of new hardware, should make this a true technical spectacle.
Then there’s the mysterious and long-awaited “Star Wars Outlaws.” Currently not much is known, aside from a cinematic teaser trailer and the pedigree of Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind hits like “Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.” While “Fallen Order” focused on lightsaber combat, rumors swirl that “Outlaws” will be a gritty shooter with a focus on bounty hunters and the seedier side of everyone’s favorite galaxy far, far away.
Of course, it’s not just about established franchises. New IPs are where the true surprises lie. “Unknown 9: Awakening” is an intriguing one. Imagine a paranormal young adult adventure in the vein of “Stranger Things,” but set in the atmospheric streets of Kolkata, India. It’s dripping with a unique visual style and promises to explore themes rarely seen in mainstream games.
Fans of sprawling RPGs, get your dice polishing kits ready, because “Avowed” aims to scratch that fantasy itch. Obsidian Entertainment, masters of the genre, will be diving headlong into the world of their Pillars of Eternity series. Expect rich lore, branching storylines, and morally complex decisions galore set in a vibrant world inspired by classic high fantasy.
2024 could also be a pivotal year for the resurgence of certain genres. Horror is poised to make a comeback in a big way. The runaway success of “Resident Evil” remakes and fresh hits like “The Callisto Protocol” prove there’s an appetite for scares. We don’t have many solid details yet, but a new “Silent Hill” project lurks on the horizon, and the recent announcement of “Alan Wake 2” has sent shivers down the spines of fans who loved the chilling, psychological vibes of the original.
Strategy games, particularly in the classic RTS mold, have been relatively quiet in recent years. However, 2024 might see a turning point. Microsoft is betting big on a revival of the beloved “Age of Empires” series, with both “Age of Empires IV” and a mobile spin-off in the works. We’ll have to wait and see if it can recapture the magic that made these games so iconic in the early days of PC gaming.
Of course, we have to mention the iGaming sector as part of the gaming industry. This year, we’re expecting to see many new slot releases from both renowned game studios and smaller ones. These will range from classic slot titles with fruit themes to brand new, modern games that redefine the genre.
Beyond specific titles, there are a few broader trends to watch for in 2024. Cloud gaming is only going to become more ubiquitous. Services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus are constantly evolving, and Amazon’s Luna is still trying to find its feet. Don’t be surprised to see major game releases launching directly into those cloud libraries, blurring the lines between traditional consoles and streaming.
The ever-growing reach of indie games is another key trend. Smaller studios, unbound by the need for blockbuster budgets, are where much of the true innovation and risk-taking happens. Subscription services and platforms like Itch.io make it easier than ever to discover these hidden gems.
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.
