what-to-expect-from-2021-games-edition

What To Expect From 2021: Games Edition

As far as 2020 is concerned, players managed to get their hands on some of the best experiences ever produced in videogame history. Despite the extremely difficult year that affected almost every area of our society, the gaming industry was able to surpass those obstacles and deliver games worthy of the masterpiece status. From Ghost of Tsushima and Half-Life: Alyx, to Hades and The Last of Us Part II, 2020 was a hard-fought battle in which videogames triumphed. Although the battle is not over, we can look forward with hope, because of what 2021 holds in store for us (fingers crossed for no more delays).

Hitman 3

Developer(s): IO Interactive
Release Date(s): January 20, 2021
Platform(s): Windows, Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Stadia
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Right around the corner, we have the final entry in the World of Assassination trilogy. With the help of Diana Burnwood, his handler, and Lucas Grey, introduced in the previous installment, our favorite assassin will try once and for all to eliminate every Providence associate. Taking the player in a globetrotting experience, this entry will introduce many new locations, with Dubai being the one presented in the trailer.

As for gameplay, the game will continue to have sneakiness and craftiness as the main aspects in order to complete the missions. Although some of the core mechanics can be the same, the trailer presented us with some new shots of Agent 47 climbing a huge skyscraper, while wearing a skydiving suit, which can be an indication that we will get some pretty cool options when approaching our target.

Far Cry 6

Developer(s): Ubisoft Toronto
Release Date(s): Delayed
Platform(s): Windows, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Stadia
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Originally set to release on February 18, 2021, Far Cry 6 became part of the huge list of entertainment products delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, that particularly affected the movie industry, with many blockbusters being delayed or even moved to streaming services.

Using the Cuban revolution as an inspiration, the 6th installment of the Far Cry series introduces a fictional island called Yara, ruled by AntĂłn Castillo (Giancarlo Esposito), a fascist dictator. In the middle of a revolution, AntĂłn is trying to carve the path for his son Diego (Anthony Gonzalez) to take the helm, following his footsteps. Also, it is known that the father and son relationship will have a central role in the narrative.

Trying to take back the island, the player will control Dani Rojas, a revolutionary soldier, fighting for the local guerrilla. With the return of the fan-favorite mechanic “Guns For Hire”, now suitably called “Amigos For Hire”, Dani can call for some A.I. backup, including a wiener dog called Chorizo.

God of War: Ragnarok

Developer(s): Santa Monica Studio
Release Date(s): 2021
Platform(s): PS5
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Although Sony has not confirmed that Ragnarok is the official title of the game, one thing we know for sure is that this entry will be focused on Ragnarok, the end of the world and many gods in Norse mythology. With the appearance of Thor in the ending of God of War (2018), it is safe to say that the Norse god will have a pivotal role in this new story, being one of the main antagonists.

Even though not much is known nor confirmed about God of War: Ragnarok, the death of Baldur, stated in Norse mythology as one of the events that mark the beginning of Ragnarok, and the appearance of Thor, are clear signs that something big got into motion.

Horizon Forbidden West

Developer(s): Guerrilla Games
Release Date(s): 2021
Platform(s): PS4, PS5
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The story of Aloy continues in the post-apocalyptic world that we go used to in the previous game of the series. After the events of the first game, Aloy must face a completely different threat, a ruthless and deadly plague that is affecting her lands. She is sent on a quest to a region called the Forbidden West, to understand and find the source of this epidemic.

During her path, she will encounter many different biomes, merciless machines, and some iconic landscapes, like the Yosemite Valley. Confirmed by the developers, this new entry will feature underwater exploration, which is heavily focused on the trailer, so expect to have an interesting time under lakes and rivers. On another note, Ashly Burch and Lance Reddick, the actors behind Aloy and Sylens, will be reprising their roles in Forbidden West.

Halo Infinite

Developer(s): 343 Industries
Release Date(s): Late 2021
Platform(s): Windows, Xbox Series X/S
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Probably the most expected game of 2021, which was originally set to release with the Xbox One X/S in November 2020, Halo Infinite marks the return of Master Chief to a more open-world environment. In the 6th installment of the franchise, which will be set in a damaged Halo ring, our protagonist will face the Banished, who return to the antagonist role.

According to the developers, Master Chief will play a much more central and dedicated role in this game, with this being “his greatest adventure yet to save humanity”.

On an interesting note, it is confirmed that the multiplayer part of Halo Infinite will be released as a free-to-play game, which can be a smart way of reigniting the Halo flame for some players out there.

With all the uncertainties that 2021 will bring along, one thing is for sure, when it comes to videogames, this year is stacked. Although only 5 games were mentioned here, there are a lot more exciting releases coming throughout the year. From Resident Evil Village to Mass Effect: Legendary Edition, there is not enough room to list all the amazing titles coming this year. Gaming is a lot of things, but now more than ever, it is a refuge for those who need to get their minds off the difficulties and troubles of the world.

Diogo Alexandre
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