I’m not sure what’s worse: the droll banter of suits on the television debating politics or the lull of new releases that is typical of the industry at this time of year. Well, with any luck you developed quite a backlog of games waiting to be played as, sadly, this pesky work thing tends to get in the way of gaming bliss. At least the gaming gods were kind enough to announce the first three Fallout 4 DLC’s last week. Those Preston quests get old real fast...
Far Cry Primal
Release Date: February 23rd, 2016
Platforms: PS4, XB1
The latest Far Cry drops right smack in the middle of the Mesolithic period! Left stranded and weaponless in Oros after his hunting party is ambushed, Takkar seeks to rise to power using his ability to tame animals for combat as well as growing and defending his tribe. Want a saber-toothed tiger as a combat companion? Tame it! Players will only have access to melee weapons-bows, spears axes and clubs-crafted with materials scavenged from around the environment with more lethal weapons available as they ascend in level. Players must also hunt and create fire for their tribe while protecting it from both human and animal threats. Takkar’s pet owl serves as his scout-providing him with the location of rival tribes and their outposts.
Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
Release Date: February 23rd, 2016
Platforms: PS4, PSVita
The surprise mobile hit makes its debut on Playstation. In this turned based puzzle game, players move Agent 47 along a grid of lines with interconnecting nodes to complete level objectives. Objectives may include assassinating a target or simply moving to a target node undetected. Plan your moves wisely my friend-for once you move all enemies on the board move in kind. Levels become more complex as players advance introducing both new gameplay mechanics and enemies. Fear not, however, Agent 47 is up to the task with new abilities and stealth options to match wits with his foes.
Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2
Release Date: February 23rd, 2016
Platforms: PC, PS4, XB1
PopCap’s sequel to Garden Warfare features the addition of six new zombie and plant classes, the aptly named Graveyard Ops, a zombie version of the popular Garden Ops, and the brand new Herbal Assault mode that includes support for up to 24 players! Fans of the original Garden Warfare needn’t fret as most modes and characters (complete with new abilities!) return for Garden Warfare 2 and zombie and plant variants earned in Garden Warfare seamlessly transfer to Garden Warfare 2! As if that wasn’t enough, the game’s launch support includes 40 different characters, 12 different maps, its own private servers and split screen multiplayer! Cue the infomercial voice! But wait there’s more!!! Backyard Battleground is a hub world open for exploration where players can collect collectibles, fight in King of the Hill matches, access mission portals and view unlocked character bobbleheads.
Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien
Release Date: February 24th, 2016
Platforms: PS4
So yeah, that title is not a typo. You’re probably thinking it was but, alas, no. Exactly what is a “Rhythm Alien” you ask? Read on! The sequel to Bit.Trip Runner, Runner2 is a sidescrolling platformer comprised of five themed worlds with fourteen levels and five bonus levels. Players must run through the environment taking care to avoid hitting objects or falling offscreen. Failure to keep your runner safe means starting the level over! New features include polygonal graphics (a first in the Bit.Trip series, checkpoints in the normal levels, a new glide move to lengthen jumping and speed movement and a dance move that awards points when used.
The Flame in the Flood
Release Date: February 24th, 2016
Platforms: XB1
Referred to by one of it’s developers as a “travelling survival game,” The Flame in the Flood was crowdfunded and boasts a development team that includes Rock Band, Halo 2 and Bioshock alums. Players must navigate a backcountry river with their canine companion while they struggle to survive. The Flame in the Flood employs a scavenging and crafting system to provide items that are critical to your survival. Pay attention to your basic survival needs as failure to do so equals your death. Aiding in your survival is your dog, Aesop, who can sense where danger awaits and help you scavenge supplies.
The Walking Dead: Michonne: Episode 1 - In Too Deep
Release Date: February 23rd, 2016
Platforms: Everything!
Telltale's latest foray into The Walking Dead tells the story of Michonne and why she left Rick’s group and her eventual return.
