Well, E3 2019 is over, and there are a ton of upcoming games for this year, and beyond that, we simply can’t wait for. In addition to the sweet unreleased games we already knew about—such as the highly anticipated Cyberpunk 2077 and Death Stranding—there are a whole host of new games to look forward to.
Whether you’re after a game with an active narrative component, a badass open world to explore, or even a platform game, we’ve got you covered.
So, what are the most highly anticipated games for 2019 and 2020? 🤔 🎮
Ordering them based on their initial release date, we here at Game Gavel have created a list of some of the most highly anticipated games for 2019 onwards. Let’s get stuck in, shall we?
#1 Best Kart Racing Game: Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled
Genre: Kart Racing Game
Developer(s): Beenox
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled Release Date: 21 June 2019
In a world where Mario Kart is seen as the best kart racing game, Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is coming back to redefine the genre once again. Other than just a nostalgia trip, this remastered Crash Team Racing game boasts sharp new graphics, online multiplayer in additional to local split-screen races, as well as some pretty sweet kart customization options.
If you’ve played the classic 1999 PlayStation title, you’ll be able to drift down memory lane as CTRNF is bringing back all the classic characters and tracks, alongside some fun new items and surprises. As it’s the 17th installment in the Crash Bandicoot series, it’s the perfect modern Crash Bandicoot racing game for any party that I’m sure will be loved for generations to come.
#2 Best Xbox One Game: Bleeding Edge
Genre: Multiplayer Combat
Developer(s): Ninja Theory
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox One
Bleeding Edge Release Date: June 27, 2019 (Bleeding Edge Alpha)
Bleeding Edge is a 4v4 competitive multiplayer game that looks like if Borderlands and Overwatch had a baby—and a very good looking one at that. Revealed at Microsoft’s E3 2019 conference, Bleeding Edge is another upcoming game by Ninja Theory that offers brilliant melee combat. With ten different characters, all with a unique approach to battle, you can probably see why this game is being compared to Overwatch.
Of course, each character in the game will fit into a class of either assassin, support, or tank—classes that will need to be mastered when the game comes out. Set to release on 27 June 2019, Bleeding Edge is one of the most-expected upcoming Xbox games that we just want to get our hands-on.
#3 Super Mario Maker 2
Genre: Side-Scrolling Platform Game
Developer(s): Nintendo, Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Super Mario Maker 2 Release Date: 28 June 2019
Unless you live under a rock, you know what Super Mario is—or more specifically, Super Mario Maker 2. That’s right, at the end of the month, Nintendo is bringing back the player-created Mario level game with Super Mario Maker 2.
First appearing on the Wii U back in 2015, the second game in the series will only be available on the Nintendo Switch. If you don’t already own the console, this game is definitely a reason to go out and by one right now. With new themes such as Snow, Desert, Forest, and Jungle for diversity, new types of blocks for variety, as well as new enemies to destroy, Super Mario Maker 2 looks like an absolutely fantastic upcoming Mario Maker game.
#4 Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Team Ninja
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order Release Date: 19 July 2019
Headed exclusively to the Nintendo Switch, Marvel Ultimate Alliance: The Black Order is the third installment in the Marvel series set to release a decade after its predecessor—you could say it’s been a while.
Featuring a cast of well-known Marvel, Guardians of the Galaxy, Defenders, X-Men, Inhumans and Avengers characters, The Black Order is a combat game we’re simply stoked for. As the game will have online multiplayer support, you’ll be able to team up with your friends and family against Thanos and his minions in order to survive in the crazy yet colorful world.
#4 Control
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Remedy Entertainment
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Control Release Date: 27 August 2019
Control is a third-person shooter game in which you take control of Jesse Faden, a woman with supernatural abilities following a traumatic childhood experience. Using her telekinetic abilities and a morphing pistol, you’ll have to battle it out with mind-controlling soldiers taken over by otherworldly forces in order to survive in the underground facility of The Oldest House.
As this game is from the developers of Alan Wake and Quantum Break—Remedy Entertainment—we expect Control to be a fantastic action-adventure game that combines futuristic weapons with supernatural abilities.
#5 Blair Witch
Genre: First-Person Horror Game
Developer(s): Bloober Team
Platform(s): Xbox One and PC.
Blair Witch Release Date: 30 August 2019
Inspired by the iconic 1999 horror film, The Blair Witch Project, Blair Witch is an upcoming game to be released on PC and Xbox One on August 2019. As far as we know, this won’t be an exact copy of the film or series, rather a game “inspired by The Blair Witch Project.”
What that entails, we don’t know, as the mysterious short trailer left us with a lot of unanswered questions. So far, we know that you play as a former police officer, Ellis, on a search for a missing boy in Maryland’s Burkittsville woods, home to Blair Witch. But wait, what’s that? We just got the news that you can pet your dog in this awesome horror game? Sold!
#6 Gears 5
Genre: Third-Person Shooter Game
Developer(s): Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Platform(s): Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Gears 5 Release Date: 10 September 2019
With an emphasis on melee combat and exploration of the planet Sera, Geras 5 follows the events of Gears of War 4. The Fifth game in the series seems to be shedding light on the returning Gears 4 character, Kait Diaz, who’s now the main protagonist for the upcoming game.
Beyond this, there aren’t many details—aside from the fact that we were shown “Escape,” a brand new three-player co-op mode focused on combat and survival. Of course, we do also know that Gears 5 will be released on the Xbox One and PC on 10 September 2019. We just can’t wait to shoot a bunch of locusts, a race of reptilian hominids that could scare the crap out of a grown man.
#7 Borderlands 3
Genre: FPS, Action-RPG
Developer(s): Gearbox Software, LLC
Platform(s): Google Stadia, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Borderlands 3 Release Date: 13 September 2019
To say that we were delighted for a Borderlands 3 announcement is an understatement; seven years after Borderlands 2, an actin role-playing FPS, Gearbox has finally confirmed that Borderlands 3 will be released in September.
The third game in the video game franchise will allow you to play as one of four Vault Hunters, either alone or with your friends, as you shoot and loot your way through the hectic world. With billions of guns to loot, you’ll have the opportunity to add to your evergrowing arsenal as you make your way through the graphic novel-style game. Available on Xbox One, PS4, and PC, we can already tell that Borderlands 3 is going to be a fun and lively game with some witty humor.
#8 The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Remake
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Nintendo, Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Remake Release Date: 20 September 2019
In what will likely make many of you feel very old, it’s been nearly three decades since the release of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. Twenty-six years after the first handheld installment, Link’s awakening is being remade for Nintendo Switch—and it looks better than ever before. Retaining the original title’s gameplay and tilt-shift visuals, the remake boasts a modern art style that looks pretty adorable if I do say so myself.
For you younger gamers who might not have had the chance to try out the original game for yourselves, Link’s Awakening is set on Koholint Island where Link is stranded after a shipwreck. As you take control of Link, you’re forced to embark on some pretty fun quests in order to escape the island. Only three more months to go until we get to go for a nostalgia trip!
#9 FIFA 20
Genre: Football Simulation Game
Developer(s): EA Sports, EA Vancouver
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
FIFA 20 Release Date: 27 September 2019
If you’re into football, FIFA 20 doesn’t need any introduction whatsoever. For those of you unfamiliar with the game, FIFA is a long-running football simulation franchise loved by gamers old and young. FIFA 20, in particular, is an upcoming soccer game flooded with different game modes, a career mode similar to FIFA Street, and a tonne of other fun in-game activities.
Let’s just hope EA fix the issues FIFA 19 had which made it one of the worst FIFA games in the series. Thanks to the emphasis on manual defending, FIFA 20 does look more rewarding than FIFA 19’s computer-controlled defending system. You’ll just have to check the game out yourself in September to discover if it’s an improvement or not.
#10 The Outer Worlds
Genre: Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Obsidian Entertainment
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
The Outer Worlds Release Date: 25 October 2019
The Outer Worlds is a retro-futuristic Sci-Fi RPG set on the frontier of space that we are extremely excited to play. Known for their work on Fallout: New Vegas, Obsidian Entertainment is responsible for this original game set at the edge of a space colony. As The Outer Worlds features first-person combat, we expect to see a bunch of unique skills that can be used in the battle against native wildlife and human enemies.
One of the most intriguing features seems to be the emphasis on player-choice, allowing you to choose how you approach questions. This way, your actions influence how the story will unfold. Aside from the hilarious Fallout: New Vegas-like facial animations used in the gameplay trailer, The Outer Worlds looks like a pretty cool game set to release in October.
#11 Best PS4 Exclusive: Death Stranding
Genre: Action Game
Developer(s): Kojima Productions
Platform(s): PlayStation 4
Death Stranding Release Date: 8 November 2019
Cryptic messages, ladders, ropes, The Walking Dead’s Norman Reedus and a fetus in a glass pod. Yep, you guessed it, Kojima is back at it again with another insane game. This time, aside from some random Reddit theories, no one knows what Death Stranding is about. What we do know thus far is that it’s a “new game genre” known as a “strand game.” Do we know what that means? Nope! Are we still excited about the game? Oh, absolutely!
Set to release at the beginning of November 2019, Death Stranding is an awesome PS4 exclusive that many PlayStation 4 gamers are looking forward to playing. Truthfully, I just want to get into the crazy mind of Kojima in order to understand what on earth the game is about! Only time will tell.
#12 Pokémon Sword and Shield
Genre: Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Game Freak
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Pokémon Sword and Shield Release Date: 15 November 2019
If it involves PokĂ©mon, then it’s a yes from me! Sword and Shield are the next-generation PokĂ©mon games for Nintendo Switch that we have very high hopes for. Based on the Galar region, which is basically Nintendo’s version of the UK, Sword and Shield will feature picturesque countrysides and some new PokĂ©mon trainers for you to play as.
Of course, as it’s a brand new game, there will be three new starting PokĂ©mon—Grookey, Scorbunny, and Sobble—some very charming looking pocket monsters. As you might have guessed, we are totally ready for this colorful RPG PokĂ©mon game to be released globally on November 15, 2019.
#13 Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Genre: Single-Player Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Respawn Entertainment
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order Release Date: 15 November 2019
If you’re a total nerd (like most of us here at Game Gavel), then you’re probably super excited to take on the role of former Jedi padawan, Cal Kestis, in the upcoming Star Wars game, Fallen Order. Following the horrific events of Order 66, we finally have a gameplay demo in addition to the official reveal trailer and story details.
In this video, we see a ton of cool new Force abilities used to push and pull the bodies of enemies like a ragdoll, wall-running, alongside platforming. If you’re familiar with the franchise, you’ll also recognize some familiar Star Wars faces pop up in the gameplay footage revealed by EA and Respawn at E3 2019.
#14 Shenmue 3
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): YS Net, Neilo
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows
Shenmue 3 Release Date: 19 November 2019 (Delayed from 27 August)
Eighteen years after the first Shenmue game came out, we finally have a release date for the $6 million Kickstarter project, Shenmue 3. On 27 August 2019, the action-adventure fighting game is to be released on the PlayStation 4 and PC, a game that avid gamers are simply thrilled for. Following on from the events of Shenmue 2, the game follows a teenage martial artist, Ryo Hauki, investigating his father’s murderer in 1980’s China.
Although fans are enthusiastic when it comes to the game—as you might have guessed by the amount raised on Kickstarter—some backers are complaining over the fact that the game is to launch exclusively on the Epic Games Store on PC in November. Thankfully, developers are “listening” to the complaints and will hopefully resolve this situation immediately.
#15 Monster Hunter: World Iceborne (DLC)
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Capcom
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Monster Hunter: World Iceborne Release Date:Â 6 September 2019 (Winter 2019 for PC)
Aptly named, Monster Hunter: World is an action RPG developed by Capcom where you take the role of a hunter on a quest to kill or trap monsters—who’d have thought! Although it is an expansion to the original game, Iceborne features a new story, as well as a variety of new life and regions to explore.
There will also be some new unknown monsters that you can battle using the new moves and slinger combos included for an improved hunting experience. If you already own Monster Hunter: World, you’ll be pleased to know that Iceborne is an expansion (DLC) that can be transferred to your existing save file.
For those of you who don’t own the game—which you should—you’ll have to purchase the main game and the Iceborne expansion in order to play. Alas, PC gamers will have to wait for a “winter” release, while console gamers will get to enjoy the massive expansion in September 2019.
#16 Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Genre: Platform Adventure Game
Developer(s): Moon Studios
Platform(s): Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Ori and the Will of the Wisps Release Date: 11 February 2020
Alongside a whole host of other interesting games, 2019 brings us the much-anticipated sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, Ori and the Will of the Wisps. As you embark on advent to unravel Ori’s destiny, you’ll encounter a tonne of new enemies and testing puzzles in the upcoming platform-adventure game by Moon Studios.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is one of those thrilling puzzle games that you’ll enjoy if you love timed challenges with a tonne of rewards—a game that I’m personally looking forward to. Albeit, we do have a while to wait until the February 2020 release date—luckily, there is a tonne of upcoming games to play beforehand.
#17 Final Fantasy VII Remake
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Platform(s): PlayStation 4
Final Fantasy VII Remake Release Date: 3 March 2020
Another remake scheduled for March 3, 2020, is Final Fantasy VII; developed and published by Square Enix exclusively for the PlayStation 4, Final Fantasy 7 tells the original story, following mercenary Cloud Strife and his eco-terrorist group.
As it’s a remake of the classic 1997 PlayStation title, fans of the series are overjoyed to know that after years of rumors and fan requests, the game is to be released next year in 2020. Using a real-time battle system similar to the one used in Kingdom Hearts, players will be able to freely control Cloud to attack enemies, a feature that gamers are thrilled to use.
#18 Watch Dogs: Legion
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Ubisoft Toronto
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Watch Dogs: Legion Release Date: 6 March 2020
Based on a post-Brexit London, Watch Dogs: Legion is the third game in the franchise that allows you to play as several characters—including a crazy old lady—in order to survive in the manic city. Aside from the scary grandmother, this game looks absolutely fantastic—though as I am British, that might seem like a pretty biased thing to say.
Set in a dystopian future in a city full of mass unemployment and a corrupt government, you won’t get to enjoy a nice hot cup of tea (with milk) and crumpets. Nevertheless, you will get to build up a badass team of fighters with different characteristics that affect their playstyle. Of course, it won’t be as easy as walking up to a player and yelling, “‘ello, fancy joining my team, mate?” You’ll have to convince them DedSec is worth risking their lives for.
#19 Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Genre: Life Simulation Game
Developer(s): Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Release Date: 20 March 2020
Considering it’s been seven years since the release of Animal Crossing: New Leaf, I think it’s time for a new game, don’t you? Well, so do Nintendo! During a Nintendo Direct back in September 2018, Nintendo announced that the much loved social simulation game is coming back in 2020.
Available only on the Nintendo Switch, we here at Game Gavel expect to see a large new world to discover, as well as a whole host of new characters, furniture, and places to explore. Frankly, from the trailers we’ve seen thus far, I’d give raccoon storekeeper Tom Nook 50,000 bells for the game!
Related: Best Games Like Animal Crossing
#20 Most Highly Anticipated: Cyberpunk 2077
Genre: Open World Role Playing Game
Developer(s): CD Projekt, CD Projekt RED
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows (PC)
Cyberpunk 2077 Release Date: 16 April 2020
Back in 2012, we were blessed with a trailer for one of the most highly anticipated games for 2020, Cyberpunk 2077. Fast forward seven years and Keanu Reeves is giving us the release date for the game at the Microsoft press conference at E3 2019 (psst, it’s on the 16th of April 2020!). As Keanu is going to appear in the game as Johnny Silverhand—a badass character that popped up at the end of the new trailer—it’s only fair that he broke the news.
Just like Reeves himself, the game looks breathtaking; much like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, CD Projekt has created an RPG with a “strong narrative component”—something myself and seemingly every other gamer on the planet is looking forward to. Set in a dystopian open world said to be bigger than any we’ve seen before,
Cyberpunk is a fascinating Sci-Fi role-playing game now available to preorder. Oh, and the Collector’s Edition will land you a tonne of psychical goodies for you to show off to your friends.
#22 Outriders
Genre: Co-Op Shooter
Developer(s): People Can Fly
Platform(s): Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC
Outriders Release Date: TBA Summer 2020
Outriders is an upcoming Sci-Fi co-op shooter revealed prior to E3 2019 by Square Enix, the talented folks behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts. Set on an alien planet, Outriders itself is described by the creators as a “dark, modern shooter built with traditional values.”
By that, they mean we will be able to enjoy this great co-op game with friends and family, or if you’re really antisocial, on your own. With no official confirmation as of yet, all we know is that it’s set to release in summer 2020 and that the game will be available on Xbox One, PS4, as well as PC—go PCMR! Pretty cut and dry, I know—though, as the game is from Bulletstorm developer People Can Fly, we have high hopes for Outriders.
#23 The Elder Scrolls VI
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Bethesda Game Studios
Platform(s): TBA
The Elder Scrolls VI Release Date: TBA
If you’re into gaming, chances are you’re into The Elder Scrolls. It’s just one of those games that everyone seems to enjoy. Set in a massive open world, The Elder Scrolls VI is an upcoming action role-playing fantasy game developed by Bethesda Game Studios. With a focus on free-form gameplay, fans have been waiting for a new game for years.
Unfortunately, Todd Howard clarified that Bethesda was not going to discuss Elder Scrolls 6 at E3 2019—and he kept his word. Due to this, we don’t have a release date for The Elder Scrolls 6 as of yet, though it’s most likely going to be a next-gen console game that will be made after Bethesda’s Starfield.
#24 Best Upcoming Sci-Fi: Starfield
Genre: Expectation: Sci-Fi RPG
Developer(s): Bethesda Game Studios
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Starfield Release Date: TBA
Before The Elders Scrolls 6 comes out, Bethesda is devoted to full work on Starfield, an upcoming, next-gen Sci-Fi RPG. As it’s the first original RPG Bethesda have made in 25 years, fans of the video game company are ready for something new and unique—and so are we.
We don’t know much about Starfield aside from teaser trailers and rumors, but heck are we excited for the space-themed game. Currently in a “playable state internally,” Todd Howard said the game has finally moved out of pre-production, though the release date is TBA.
#25 Baldur’s Gate III
Genre: Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Larian Studios
Platform(s): TBA
Baldur’s Gate 3 Release Date: TBA
One of the best role-playing games of all time is finally getting a sequel, one that I’m sure gamers across the globe are thrilled for. If you aren’t familiar with the series, Baldur’s Gate is a magnificent fantasy RPG first published as a top-down game in 1998 by Interplay Entertainment.
The next big project by developers Larian Studios will begin outside the city of Baldur’s Gate where you’ll encounter a great deal of brain chomping Illithid—great…aside from the gory E3 trailer, the details so far are thin. Regardless, us nerds at Game Gavel are waiting for our questions to be answered once more information is fed to us.
#26 Elden Ring
Genre: Fantasy Action-RPG Adventure Game
Developer(s): FromSoftware
Platform(s): Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Elden Ring Release Date: TBA
Who cares if the trailer for Elden Ring is vague? Seriously, the game is a collaboration between Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin and Dark Souls creator Hidetaka Miyazaki—what more could you want? At the edge of our seats we sit, patiently waiting for the new project from the studio behind Dark Souls and Bloodborne, some of the best games on the market.
We don’t have an environment or any evidence of where Elden Ring takes place from the E3 trailer—but does that mean we aren’t still eager to play the game? No! We just wish they’d mention a release date with the announcement trailer, sadly, we’ll just have to wait for that—so, expect it to be released in 2020.
#27 Halo Infinite
Genre: Sci-Fi FPS Game
Developer(s): 343 Industries
Platform(s): Xbox One, Microsoft Windows (PC)
Halo Infinite Release Date: TBA 2020
Confirmed as an Xbox Project Scarlett launch title that will release around the winter holiday in 2020, Halo Infinite is a game we’ve all been waiting for. If you aren’t already aware, Halo is a military Sci-Fi FPS franchise loved by Xbox and PC gamers around the world.
Since we haven’t had a new game since Halo: Fireteam Raven back in 2018, we are so ready for Halo Infinite. At last year’s E3, Microsoft gave us a brief look at the 6th game in the series, one that continues after Master Chief’s story. Again, we still don’t have an exact date as of yet, so expect it to launch around December 2020.
#28 GhostWire: Tokyo
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Tango Gameworks
Platform(s): Xbox One, PlayStation 4
GhostWire: Tokyo Release Date: TBA
Unveiled during the Bethesda E3 2019 showcase, GhostWire: Tokyo is an outstanding survival game from the makers of The Evil Within. If you’ve watched the trailer for the game, you’ll know what I mean when I say it could be mistaken for an upcoming horror movie. I mean, really, this thing is so realistic, that I could probably slurp the noodles right out of my monitor if I tried hard enough.
As far as we know, the game is about people who are vanishing in the city of Tokyo, and your mission is to find out why. There aren’t many details beyond this, aside from the fact that GhostWire: Tokyo will be an action-adventure game full of spooky paranormal enemies and supernatural evil that most of us will preorder the second it’s available.
#29 Ghost of Tsushima
Genre: Action-Adventure Game, Stealth Game
Developer(s): Sucker Punch Productions
Platform(s): PlayStation 4
Ghosts of Tsushima Release Date: TBA
Set in the very specific year of 1274, Ghost of Tsushima is an upcoming game based on Japan during the Mongolian invasion—a game that will enable you to take on the role of the last samurai on Tsushima island. Since it was revealed at E3 2018, we haven’t heard much about the game that takes players back to Feudal Japan.
Yet, we’re still anxious for Sony to shed more light on it. Albeit, as it’s being developed by Suckerpunk Studios and published by Sony, Ghost of Tsushima will be a PlayStation 4 exclusive. Sorry, PC gamers, you’ll just have to miss out on this awesome open-world game.
#30 Deathloop
Genre: FPS, Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Arkane Lyon
Platform(s): TBA
Deathloop Release Date: TBA
Arkane Lyon debuted its new project, Deathloop, at the Bethesda E3 presentation this year with a cinematic trailer following two lead protagonists attempting to slay each other. With the song “Nowhere to Run” ironically playing, it seems as though the two male and female characters—Colt and Julianna—can’t actually kill each other without causing a time loop.
So far, we know that Colt is driven to kill in order to break this very time loop cycle, while Julianna wants to protect it. Why? We don’t know, but we are still excited for Deathloop to take us on a mind-bending ride through time.
#31 The Last of Us Part II
Genre: Action-Adventure Game, Survival Horror
Developer(s): Naughty Dog
Platform(s): PlayStation 4
The Last of Us Part 2 Release Date: TBA
Following the first action-adventure survival horror game in the series, The Last of Us Part II is set five years after its emotionally-gripping predecessor. If you’ve ever played The Last of Us, you’ll probably feel like a proud parent watching the trailer for the second part in the series as you see Ellie all grown up.
If you haven’t played the game before, The Last of Us is an apocalyptic game where you must defend yourself against cannibalistic monsters, as well as human beings. The Last of Us 2, now set in the post-apocalyptic United States, is a sequel that will focus on “hate” instead of “love” according to the the game’s story co-writers—a story that is still to be announced.
#32 Doom Eternal
Genre: FPS Game
Developer(s): id Software
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Doom Eternal Release Date: TBA
Ever since the release of the soft reboot in 2016, DOOM lovers have been craving a new game. For the 2019 sequel, Bethesda and id Software are aiming for a game that is both fast and fluid with Doom Eternal. As you play the role of a Doom Slayer, the first-person shooter game will maintain the same fast-paced combat, while bringing in some new features for the latest game in the series.
With an arsenal of new weapons, you’ll be able to take on a host of new demons that are spreading beyond Mars. The release date is TBA, but what we do know is that it’ll be available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and even the beloved Switch.
#33 Luigi’s Mansion 3
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Next Level Games
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Luigi’s Mansion 3 Release Date: TBA
Aside from the first E3 2019 Spotlight trailer, all we know about Luigi’s Mansion 3 is that it boasts high-quality graphics and gameplay—oh, and “it’s spooky!” One fan-requested feature that I’m really looking forward to is the fact that you’ll be able to play as Gooigi—a gooey-like version of Luigi who can slip through bars and walk over spikes—in Luigi’s Mansion 3.
Set in a dark hotel, everything isn’t what it seems when things take a spooky turn. The release date is to be announced. However, we do know for a fact that as it’s a Nintendo game, it’ll be a Switch exclusive.
#34 Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Genre: Lego-themed Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Traveller’s Tales
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 2, Xbox One, GameCube, Game Boy Advance
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga Release Date: TBA 2020
If you’re into LEGO-themed games, as well as Star Wars, The Skywalker Saga is a game we think you’ll enjoy. Coming to a whole host of platforms in 2020, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is an upcoming action-adventure game by the developers responsible for many of the other LEGO games on the market.
Now, I’m going to be real with you here—when I first heard they were making another LEGO game, I thought: “Here we go again…” Albeit, after watching the E3 2019 trailer for the game, I’m excited to see all nine films being brought into the LEGO limelight for the first time ever.
#35 The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 Release Date: TBA
Let’s be real here. You probably purchased a Nintendo Switch for one of two reasons: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. If you don’t have one yet, well, here’s an excuse to buy one. Nintendo has officially announced that a sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is currently in development exclusively for the Switch.
I say it’s a sequel, though game director Hidemaro Fujibayashi told IGN: “I can’t say at this point if it will be in sequels or in continuations, or what form it will take, but I definitely have lots of ideas and lots of motivation right now.”
Regardless, if you thought the first game was stunning, cast your eyes on the second game in the series. Accompanied by spooky music, the trailer for the “sequel” shows a Zelda game that could possibly be creepier than Majora’s Mask!
#36 Beyond Good & Evil 2
Genre: Action-Adventure Game
Developer(s): Ubisoft, Ubisoft Montpellier
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows
Beyond Good & Evil 2 Release Date: TBA
As you may have already guessed, Beyond Good & Evil 2 is a prequel to the classic 2003 game, Beyond Good & Evil. So, to say it’s about time for a new game is an understatement…16 years later, we still haven’t heard any solid details from Ubisoft about the game, how it will differ from the original, or how if there will be online multiplayer.
Still, we stay optimistic about Beyond Good and Evil 2 owing to the cinematic trailer we saw at E3 2018. If you don’t know what the Sci-Fi game is about, you basically get to play the role of a space pirate captain free to explore the vast universe however you please.
#37 Project EVE
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Shift Up
Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4
Project EVE Release Date: TBA
A couple of months back, Korean developer Shift Up revealed a new project titled Project EVE, an action role-playing game inspired by God of War and Nier Automata.
Now, if that doesn’t tell you how good the game is going to be, I don’t know what will. Described as a semi-open world, most people seem to be focused on the animated buttox of the protagonist, rather than the stunning graphics. Nevertheless, until we see some gameplay, we don’t exactly know what to expect from Project EVE.
#38 Project Awakening
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Cygames
Platform(s): PlayStation 4
Project Awakening Release Date: TBA
Project Awakening is an upcoming RPG from Japanese video game development studio, Cygames. Contrasting some of the other titles they have worked on, Project Awakening is a PS4 exclusive—rather than a mobile game—that we are pretty intrigued by.
We’ve never actually seen the game in action, yet admittedly, the concept trailer looks beautiful. Aiming to allow 12 players to play together at once, Project Awakening is a TBA game likely to be a next-gen release, one that looks like it was inspired by Monster Hunter: World and Game of Thrones.
#39 Wolfenstein: Youngblood
Genre: First-Person Shooter Game
Developer(s): Arkane Studios, MachineGames
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
Wolfenstein: Youngblood Release Date: TBA 2019
Wolfenstein: Youngblood is another highly anticipated game set 19 years after the events of The New Colossus. In the upcoming title, which is bound to be one of the best FPS games of 2019, you take control of protagonist BJ Blazkowicz’s twin daughters, Jessica and Sophia, after BJ has gone missing.
As you’re forced to go on a mission to Paris, a capital that is still heavily controlled by the Nazi regime, Youngblood is likely going to be the best game we’ve seen in the series. This time, you will also get to play with a friend or even a family member in the two-player story campaign mode—a game mode we’re looking forward to.
#40 Psychonauts 2
Genre: Platform Game
Developer(s): Double Fine
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Macintosh operating systems
Psychonauts 2 Release Date: TBA 2020
Another TBA throwback game coming to multiple platforms is Psychonauts 2. First released in 2005, Psychonauts is a platform game coming after the success of crowdfunding by fans across the world.
Maintaining the same third-person view, you’ll be able to take back control of Raz who’s going to uncover the secrets the Psychonauts organization over a decade after the first game. Featuring a new hub world inside Psychonauts HQ, Psychonauts 2 is coming back in 2020 better than ever with a whole host of new characters ready to help in combat.
#41 Biomutant
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer(s): Experiment 101
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Biomutant Release Date: TBA 2019
Biomutant is an interesting looking game set in an open world in which you take control of a raccoon-like creature from a third-person perspective. Revealed in 2017 by THQ Nordic and indie game developer Experiment 101, the 2018 release date has been pushed back a year to an unknown date.
After seeing the vibrant, post-apocalyptic open world full of bio-contaminated monsters and plenty of customization options, I’m sure the Biomutant is certainly worth waiting for.
#42 Ooblets
Genre: Life simulation game
Developer(s): Glumberland
Platform(s): Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Ooblets Release Date: TBA
Ooblets is an adorable, colorful looking life simulation game suitable for the whole family. With gameplay that looks similar to Animal Crossing, you play as a customizable character who owns a farm. Your main goal? To tend to your farm, grow crops, and to ultimately have fun!
Aside from farming, Ooblets are actually the cute little creatures that can be collected and used for battle, similar to Pokémon. Thus far, Ooblets truly looks like one of those fun indie games you can play in order to wind down after a long day at work or school.
Final Verdict
Well, there we have it, some of the best upcoming games for 2019 and 2020. Aside from the obvious games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Death Stranding, we are curious to know what games you’re looking forward to. Ready to jump into the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us Part 2? Or maybe you want to take a trip down memory lane in Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled?
Whatever it is you’re looking forward to playing, just have fun with it—after all, that’s what video games are for! If you’re interested in reading up on some of the best games on the market while you wait for some new games to be released, why not check out our guide to the best role-playing games in 2019?