2021 is shaping up to be another tough year, but that isn’t to say there is no entertainment to be found. With major video game releases taking place over 2020 (admittedly to varying levels of success), the industry cannot be slowed by the pandemic. With lots of time on our hands once again, there are plenty of games to enjoy being released this year.
For anyone who has ever obsessively tracked the release of any video game, you know that the initial release date is likely to be pushed back and back and back… Therefore, this article is basing this list of upcoming game releases on titles that are at least estimated to be released in 2021.
With J.K. Rowling reportedly having little to no influence over the upcoming Avalanche Software title, Hogwarts Legacy, it shall be interesting to see how this game contributes to the lore of the Wizarding World. The trailer looks like a dream come true for any Harry Potter fan and with recent lacklustre series contributions with the Fantastic Beasts series, this may be the title that breathes positivity back into the fandom.
Although a 2020 shambles, the upcoming updates and patches to Cyberpunk 2077 remain hotly anticipated. There is no doubt that the world looks amazing, the gameplay looks immersive and the story sounds prescient, but many gamers agree that they only want to spend £50 on a game that works. Alas, I remain optimistic; it’s what Keanu Reeves deserves!
As our frustrations mount under lockdown number 450 at this point, is there any better emotional release than a Far Cry game? Far Cry 6 is shaping up to be another ambitious addition to the action series, taking place on a beautiful Caribbean island that is being oppressively ruled under the tight grip of the dictator Anton Castillo, played by Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Esposito. Although every Far Cry game is highly formulaic, Ubisoft is onto a winning formula that keeps gamers coming back with every new release. Hopefully, Far Cry 6 will live up to expectations!
In a world of constant change, you can’t beat a reliable franchise! Luckily, the developers of the Hitman series, IO Interactive, have consistently created stealthy, fun and original entries; Hitman 3 will hopefully be no different. With unique missions, each containing intricate ways to off the given target, Hitman games never fail to incite our maniacal alter-ego. Visually, Hitman has always been at the cutting edge of game graphics, meaning the new generation of consoles will be sure to further enhance one’s immersion.
If brutal and violent games aren’t your cup of tea in what is likely to be a grim year, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and the Sims 4 regularly bring out additional content that provides calming role-playing experiences. The developers of the Sims 4 have stated that they are not yet finished with the Sims 4 allowing for the possibility of new expansion, game and stuff packs. With Animal Crossing once again topping UK game sales charts, there is no sign of the Nintendo title falling out of fashion. My sole wish regarding the future of Animal Crossing is that we receive a café; as someone suffering from café-withdrawals, all I want from life is a virtual cup of coffee with Brewster in the Roost whilst relaxing to K.K. Slider!
Although life is far from perfect, these games may be a beacon of hope and excitement. Mental health ought to be high on our priority lists so be sure to take time for relaxation and fun.
