Ahead of the Summer Game Fest, Sony unveiled a slew of new and familiar titles for the PS5 and PS VR2 during the May 2024 State of Play. PC gamers were also treated to some exciting news. If you missed the broadcast, there’s no need to watch the entire show. Here’s a concise summary of the key announcements, trailers, and information from the State of Play.
Highlight of the State of Play: Astro Bot
Let’s start with the highlight: Astro Bot. Sony saved this for the grand finale, and it’s clear why. Astro Bot, which has previously been featured in mini-game collections and a VR adventure, as well as bundled with the PS5, is now getting its own full-fledged adventure. The first trailer showcases it as a fun 3D platformer that traverses the history of PlayStation. The game features numerous beloved characters from Sony’s game universe, including PaRappa the Rapper, Kratos, and the creatures from Journey. The PlayStation consoles and controllers themselves also play significant roles.
Silent Hill 2 Remake
Although the announcement of the Silent Hill 2 remake happened some time ago, we now have a confirmed release date – unless there are any last-minute delays. According to Konami, the revamped Silent Hill 2 will launch on October 8, 2024, for PC and PlayStation 5. The State of Play trailer offered a good look, but for more details, you can watch the nearly 14-minute gameplay video released by Konami following the event.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds was one of the major announcements at The Game Awards 2023. The State of Play provided the first real glimpse of gameplay, which looks visually stunning. The character models are highly detailed, the monsters are massive, and the weapons are impressive. Notably, weapons can now be swapped during hunts, adding new strategic options. The trailer also showcased a weather change, including a sandstorm hinted at in the initial announcement trailer.
Concord
A significant portion of the State of Play focused on the upcoming hero shooter Concord. The game received a detailed cinematic trailer introducing five characters, clearly inspired by Guardians of the Galaxy.
Where Winds Meet
Originally announced as a PC exclusive, it was revealed during the State of Play that the highly anticipated open-world action RPG Where Winds Meet is also being developed for PlayStation 5. Players will take on the role of a swordsman or swordswoman in the era of the Ten Kingdoms in China. The game promises numerous choices that impact the story, a complex combat system, thrilling boss battles, and more.
Additional Exciting Announcements from the State of Play:
- Marvel’s Rivals: The superhero-themed hero shooter will also be available for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a closed beta expected in July.
- Path of Exile 2: Surprisingly, this Diablo competitor will be available on consoles from the start, with Early Access beginning at the end of 2024. It will include a couch co-op mode and cross-progression.
- Ballad of Antara: This newly revealed action RPG boasts impressive graphics and will be free-to-play, as confirmed on the PS Blog.
- Until Dawn: The remake of the teen horror game is set for release in Fall 2024, also coming to PC.
- Dynasty Warriors Origins: Omega Force’s over-the-top mass battles continue with a new installment set for 2025.
- Infinity Nikki: This charming open-world game from a former Zelda developer was shown off with stylish outfits, a photo mode, and a beta test announcement in the new trailer.
- Skydance’s Behemoth: Coming to PlayStation VR2 in Fall 2024, this game lets players wield swords and battle gigantic enemies, reminiscent of Shadow of the Colossus.
- Alien – Rogue Incursion: If you’ve ever wanted a truly terrifying gaming experience, this VR adventure should do the trick.
- God of War Ragnarök: It was an open secret, but now it’s confirmed. Kratos’ latest adventure will be released for PC on September 19, 2024, and will include the Valhalla DLC.