Get Ready to Rumble: A Deep Dive into the Upcoming Action Games We Can’t Wait To Play
The action genre, a cornerstone of gaming for decades, is showing no signs of slowing down. From pulse-pounding shooters and gravity-defying platformers to visceral hack-and-slash adventures, the next year promises a diverse and exciting slate of titles that will test our reflexes, challenge our strategies, and leave us breathless. This article delves into some of the most anticipated action games on the horizon, exploring their unique mechanics, captivating narratives, and the sheer adrenaline rush they promise to deliver. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling journey through the world of upcoming action games.
For the Cyberpunk Enthusiast: Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
While Cyberpunk 2077 had a rocky launch, CD Projekt Red has diligently worked to address the issues and deliver on its initial vision. Phantom Liberty, a spy-thriller expansion set to release in late 2023, is poised to be the ultimate redemption arc. Featuring the return of V, our customizable protagonist, the expansion plunges players into the dangerous and politically charged district of Dogtown, a lawless enclave within Night City.
What makes Phantom Liberty so compelling is its promise of a new narrative layer, weaving espionage and intrigue into the existing tapestry of Night City. The addition of Idris Elba as Solomon Reed, an FIA agent, further elevates the stakes and adds a layer of gravitas to the already captivating storyline. We can expect complex moral choices, intricate conspiracies, and the signature CD Projekt Red attention to detail that made The Witcher 3 a masterpiece.
Beyond the narrative, Phantom Liberty is expected to introduce significant gameplay improvements. The revamped skill tree and cyberware systems promise greater customization options, allowing players to fine-tune their builds to suit their preferred playstyle. New weapons, vehicles, and cybernetic enhancements will further expand the combat possibilities, making firefights even more dynamic and engaging. Phantom Liberty isn’t just an expansion; it’s a chance for Cyberpunk 2077 to finally realize its full potential and cement its place as a genre-defining RPG.
For the Superhero Fanatic: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Swinging through the streets of New York City as Spider-Man has never been so exhilarating, and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 promises to amplify that experience tenfold. Insomniac Games is back with a sequel that boasts not one, but two playable Spider-Men: Peter Parker and Miles Morales. Each Spider-Man brings their own unique abilities and gadgets to the table, offering players distinct combat styles and traversal options.
The dual protagonist system is more than just a gimmick; it’s a key element of the narrative. The story explores the personal lives of both Peter and Miles as they grapple with the responsibilities of being Spider-Man while facing new and formidable threats. Venom, one of Spider-Man’s most iconic villains, takes center stage, promising a dark and emotionally charged storyline that will push both heroes to their limits.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 isn’t just about the story; it’s about the spectacle. The improved visuals and animations bring New York City to life in stunning detail. The web-swinging mechanics have been refined, allowing for even more fluid and acrobatic traversal. The combat system has also been expanded, incorporating new moves, gadgets, and environmental interactions. With a larger map to explore, a compelling narrative, and enhanced gameplay, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is poised to be the definitive Spider-Man experience.
For the Souls-Like Devotee: Lies of P
Inspired by the classic tale of Pinocchio, Lies of P presents a dark and twisted interpretation of the beloved story. Set in the Belle Époque-inspired city of Krat, players take on the role of P, a puppet who must navigate a city overrun by madness and monsters in search of his creator, Geppetto.
What sets Lies of P apart from other Souls-like games is its unique combat system, which revolves around weapon assembly and the "Lie" mechanic. Players can combine different weapon parts to create a variety of combat styles, experimenting with different combinations to find the perfect fit for their playstyle. The "Lie" mechanic adds a moral dimension to the gameplay, as P’s choices to lie or tell the truth can impact the story and his abilities.
Lies of P is not just a re-imagining of Pinocchio; it’s a challenging and rewarding action RPG that pays homage to the Souls-like genre while forging its own identity. The intricate level design, challenging boss battles, and compelling narrative make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
For the Monster Hunter Addict: Wild Hearts
Developed by Omega Force, the studio behind the Dynasty Warriors series, Wild Hearts offers a fresh take on the monster hunting genre. Set in the fantastical world of Azuma, inspired by feudal Japan, players take on the role of a hunter tasked with slaying giant, nature-infused beasts called Kemono.
What makes Wild Hearts stand out is its unique "Karakuri" crafting system. Players can use Karakuri, ancient technology, to build various structures and gadgets on the fly during hunts. These Karakuri can be used to create traps, platforms, and even powerful weapons, allowing players to adapt to the Kemono’s attacks and exploit their weaknesses.
Wild Hearts isn’t just about hunting monsters; it’s about mastering the art of Karakuri and using your creativity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. The stunning visuals, dynamic combat, and innovative crafting system make it a refreshing and addictive addition to the monster hunting genre.
For the Sci-Fi Shooter Fanatic: Atomic Heart
Set in an alternate, utopian version of the Soviet Union in 1955, Atomic Heart presents a visually stunning and unsettling world where technology has advanced to unimaginable heights. Players take on the role of Agent P-3, a special agent tasked with investigating a catastrophic event at Facility 3826, a sprawling research complex where robots and other advanced technologies are developed.
Atomic Heart combines fast-paced FPS action with RPG elements. Players can wield a variety of futuristic weapons and abilities, customizing their loadout to suit their preferred playstyle. The combat is visceral and challenging, requiring players to utilize their environment and exploit the weaknesses of their enemies.
What makes Atomic Heart truly unique is its atmosphere. The retro-futuristic setting is both beautiful and disturbing, creating a sense of unease and paranoia. The narrative is shrouded in mystery, promising to unravel a dark and complex conspiracy that will keep players guessing until the very end. Atomic Heart is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating action game that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
For the Open-World Adventurer: Assassin’s Creed Mirage
After venturing into more RPG-focused territory, Assassin’s Creed Mirage marks a return to the series’ roots. Set in 9th-century Baghdad, players take on the role of Basim Ibn Ishaq, a street thief who rises through the ranks of the Hidden Ones, the precursors to the Assassin Brotherhood.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage emphasizes stealth and parkour, encouraging players to use the environment to their advantage. The dense and intricate city of Baghdad offers numerous opportunities for exploration and infiltration. The combat system is more streamlined than in recent Assassin’s Creed games, focusing on precise strikes and tactical maneuvers.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a love letter to the early Assassin’s Creed games, offering a more focused and intimate experience. The compelling narrative, intricate city design, and emphasis on stealth make it a must-play for fans of the series.
Beyond the Horizon: Honorable Mentions
This list is just a glimpse of the exciting action games on the horizon. Other notable titles include:
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League: A cooperative action shooter where players take on the role of the Suicide Squad as they attempt to kill the Justice League.
- Immortals of Aveum: A single-player first-person magic shooter that tells the story of Jak, who joins an elite order of battlemages to save a world on the brink of oblivion.
- Alan Wake 2: A survival horror game that combines psychological horror with action-packed gameplay.
- Tekken 8: The next installment in the legendary fighting game franchise, promising stunning visuals and a refined combat system.
- Rise of the Ronin: An open-world action RPG set in Bakumatsu era Japan.
The Future of Action Gaming is Bright
The upcoming year is shaping up to be a banner year for action games. With a diverse range of titles that cater to different tastes and preferences, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. Whether you’re a fan of cyberpunk dystopias, superhero adventures, dark fantasy worlds, or historical settings, the action genre is poised to deliver countless hours of thrilling gameplay and unforgettable experiences. So, gear up, sharpen your reflexes, and prepare to dive into the action. The future of action gaming is bright, and the best is yet to come.
