2021 has the potential to be an incredible year for video games. We’re in the transitional phase between console generations, which is always a great time to be playing games. The older generation is starting to fade, and console generations tend to produce some of their most memorable and groundbreaking games just as their twilight begins. And any new console generation tends to push weird and innovative things in its first year (sometimes awkwardly, but sometimes in a way that paves the path for years to come).
So there’s a lot to be excited about this year. Here’s an enormous list of games that the Half-Glass Gaming crew is looking forward to playing in 2021.
Note that this isn’t a comprehensive list of every game that’s coming out this year, but it is a comprehensive list of games that our small team is excited about. We admit that our taste often swings toward the eclectic and we probably like farm sims just a little too much…
Hitman 3
Okay, so we got our list out kind of late this year, which means Hitman 3 is already out. But we’d be lying if we said it wasn’t one of our most anticipated games of 2021, and having invested countless hours into it now, we can say it definitely lives up to the hype.
The final game in the World of Assassination trilogy, this one features the same gameplay elements of its predecessors, yet it focuses on the story just a bit more than Hitman (2016) or Hitman 2. It also features some of the best locations in series history.
Hitman 3 came out on January 20, 2021, and it’s available for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, Stadia, and PC.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
The Wii U was mostly a flop of a console, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t have some absolutely incredible games in its lineup. From Super Smash Bros. 4 to Mario Kart 8 to Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, there were so many great first-party games to play on the Wii U. Thankfully, Nintendo has been bringing most of the best Wii U games to the Switch.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is the next example of this. It’s more than just a remaster, though, since it includes the brand-new Bowser’s Fury expansion.
If you’re a fan of 3D Mario games, the Nintendo Switch is the place to be.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is due out February 12.
Persona 5 Strikers
Persona 5 Royal made our 2020 Game of the Year list, and we’re excited to see more of the Phantom Thieves in Persona 5 Strikers. This hack-and-slash/RPG hybrid features a deep story and allows you to visit six cities across Japan.
In true Persona fashion, you’ll be doing a lot more than fighting enemies as you play through the campaign. You’ll be able to cook up tantalizing recipes, make new friends, and lend a helping hand to those in need.
Strikers has been out since early 2020 in Japan, but it’s finally landing in the States on February 23, 2021. It’s coming to Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Steam.
Bravely Default II
While we’re big fans of modern Final Fantasy games, we also have a deep and abiding love for the classic games of the series. From the turn-based combat to the job system to the obsession with crystals, the original Bravely Default felt like a love letter to that era of Final Fantasy.
Now, the series is set to continue in Bravely Default II. The game promises the return of the Brave and Default battle system as well as a robust job system. However, the game isn’t a direct sequel to Bravely Default and Bravely Second; it’s set in a new world and features a new cast of characters.
Bravely Default II is set to release for Nintendo Switch on February 26. A demo is available in the eShop now.
The Dark Side of the Moon
We love a good FMV/interactive movie game, and that’s exactly what The Dark Side of the Moon promises to be. In this mystery title from Tayanna Studios, single dad Dean Hamilton awakes in the night to find his children missing. It’s up to him — and you — to get to the bottom of the mystery and bring him back.
While the mysterious premise was enough to catch our intention, this title shot to the top of our must-play list when we saw it featured Rupert Booth, who played Inspector Jenks in the amazing FMV game Contradiction: Spot the Liar! We can’t wait to see him in action again.
The Dark Side of the Moon is set to hit Steam on March 12th, 2021.
Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town
There are plenty of great-looking farming sims set to release in 2021, and Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town might be the best of the bunch. The latest entry in the long-running Story of Seasons series (originally known as Harvest Moon in the west) features farm customization, photography, unicorns, and much more.
Relationships have always been a big part of the Story of Seasons series, and thankfully, the marriage candidates in Olive Town all seem pretty appealing. We’re really looking forward to building our farm, exploring the new world, and getting to know the townsfolk.
Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town is set to release on March 23 for Nintendo Switch.
Balan Wonderworld
Balan Wonderworld is a new 3D platformer from Yuji Naka and Naoto Ohshima, the creators of Sonic the Hedgehog and Nights into Dreams. The title looks like it’s tailor-made for fans of classic collectethon games, with more than 80 costume pieces to unlock.
The Balan Wonderworld demo has received a mixed reception, which means it might not live up to our expectations. Still, we’re itching to explore that musical, magical world.
Balan Wonderworld should be releasing March 26, 2021, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.
Monster Hunter Rise
The immensely popular Monster Hunter series is not slowing down, but thus far it’s mostly stayed off the Nintendo Switch (Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is the one exception, and that was a re-release of a 3DS game). With Monster Hunter Rise, the Switch is finally getting a brand-new Monster Hunter game.
If you like hunting monsters, and you like adorable sidekicks (check out the Palicoes if you’re not already familiar), then this just might be the series for you.
Monster Hunter Rise is due out for Nintendo Switch on March 26.
Evil Genius 2: World Domination
Evil Genius was a management sim that billed itself as Dungeon Keeper set in a James Bond-style universe of tactical espionage. Sounds great, right?
The original game came out way back in 2004, and the closest thing we’ve gotten to a sequel was a Facebook game that was shut down in 2017. Finally, Evil Genius 2: World Domination should be out this year to give us more of the spy-lair-management action we’ve been craving.
Evil Genius 2: World Domination is slated for release on Steam on March 30.
Black Book
Based on Slavic folklore, Black Book is set in a world where humans live alongside majestic and terrifying creatures. This is a combination of classic adventure games and card-based RPGs, and you can expect to collect plenty of cards and solve lots of puzzles as you play through its story.
Black Book‘s promises a dark story, but it also looks like it will include elements of real history. The developers worked alongside anthropologists when creating the game’s encyclopedia.
Black Book is slated for release on PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC in Q1 of 2021.
Oddworld: Soulstorm
As the name implies, the Oddworld games are, well, odd — but delightfully so, with strange worlds, weird creatures, compelling narratives, and incredibly addictive gameplay loops.
Oddworld: Soulstorm is a from-the-ground-up remake of 1998’s Oddworld: Abe’s Exodus, making it a direct sequel to Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty (which itself was a remake of 1997’s Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee). The entire game was redeveloped in a new engine, and it supposedly features a much richer story than the original game did.
Oddworld: Soulstorm was initially supposed to come out in 2020, but it got pushed back to April 6, 2021.
Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V was announced way back in January 2017, and it looks like it will finally be released this year. This Atlus RPG is set in modern-day Tokyo and will feature demon fusing and turn-based comment.
Like other SMT titles, SMT V will touch many relevant themes, like unemployment and domestic troubles, as well as fears of terrorism. The developers promise that this game will capture the charm of Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne and the addictive demon raising of SMT IV.
Shin Megami Tensei V is slated for a worldwide release in “early 2021,” and it will be a Switch exclusive for the time being.
Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster
Speaking of SMT III, a remastered version of this classic PlayStation 2 title is set to release later this year. If you’ve never played Nocturne before, you’re in for a treat. The game features a deep story, tough-as-nails turn-based combat, and an atmospheric world.
Even if you’ve played through Nocturne already, there are plenty of reasons for you to check this remaster out. The remake is based on the Maniax Chronicle Edition of the game, which has never been released in the West. It features new story content, voice-acted cutscenes, and even additional difficulty settings.
Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne is due out in Spring of 2021 for PS4 and Nintendo Switch.
Re:Legend
Re:Legend has been in Early Access for a while now, but it looks like it will finally get a full release later this year. This co-op simulation RPG includes a little bit of everything, including farming, fighting, and monster-raising.
As you explore the games world, you’ll be able to level up living skills, such as fishing, crafting, and mining. While it’s possible to play Re:Legend alone, it looks like it will be even more fun to play with friends.
As mentioned above, Re:Legend is currently in Early Access on Steam, but the launch version should be out on PC, PS4, and Xbox One in spring of 2021.
Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139
While the original Nier received a mixed reception, it’s a classic in our books. It offers everything you could want from an RPG, including an amazing story and a fantastic cast of characters. If you missed Nier the first time around, you’ll definitely want to check out the awkwardly named Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139.
According to series creator Yoko Taro, this isn’t a remake or a remaster. Instead, it’s what he refers to as a “version up.” This game is based on Nier Replicant, a version of Nier that was never released in the West. Whether it will include new content remains to be seen.
Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139 is due out April 23, 2021 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
New Pokémon Snap
We’ve been dreaming of a Pokémon Snap sequel since the late 90s, and those dreams are finally going to be a reality. This game is set in the all-new Lental Region, where there are all kinds of Pokémon thriving in the wild.
The original Pokémon Snap was on the shorter side, so we’re hoping that this title will be a little bit longer. We can’t wait to grab our cameras and work on filling our Pokémon Photodex.
New Pokémon Snap lands on Nintendo Switch on April 30, 2021.
Resident Evil Village
We’re longtime fans of the Resident Evil series, so we didn’t need sexy giantess vampires in order to become interested in Resident Evil Village. After having played Resident Evil VII, we think the new first-person direction has really breathed fresh new life into the series while still preserving some of the things that made it great in the first place. So we’re excited to get more of that same type of Resident Evil gameplay on the next-generation consoles (which we’ll hopefully own by then).
But let’s be honest: The sexy vampire lady sure doesn’t hurt our interest in the game.
Resident Evil Village is due out May 7, 2021, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.
Biomutant
Biomutant is a post-apocalyptic open-world RPG that comes from a team that worked on the Just Cause series. It’s most notable feature is that its world is filled to the brim with fluffy critters, but it’s also said to feature robust crafting and character creation systems.
Biomutant is slated for release on May 25, 2021, for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
Far Cry 6
The Half-Glass Gaming crew loves us some Far Cry. While we do wish the series would re-capture some of the magic it hasn’t had since Far Cry 2, the later games in the series are still very much worth playing. We’re sure Far Cry 6 won’t be a huge departure from the later entries in the series, but we’re hyped nonetheless.
Far Cry 6 has backed down from its original February 18 launch date, and a new date hasn’t been officially announced yet (though a rogue Microsoft Store listing suggests it could be May 25). The game is coming to PC, Stadia, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X.
Dying Light 2
The original Dying Light was an open-world zombie game that was way better than it had any right to be (and massively successful as a result). Instead of a mere follow-up, Dying Light 2 expands its game systems into a vast world that changes depending on how you choose to play (think Dishonored‘s plague system, only vastly expanded).
Dying Light 2 doesn’t have an official release date yet, but it’s another game that’s rumored for May 25, 2021.
World’s End Club
World’s End Club is the latest title from Too Kyo Games, which was founded by Danganronpa creator Kazutaka Kodaka. The game is co-directed by Zero Escape director Kotaro Uchikoshi and Takumi Nakazawa, the scenario writer for the Infinity series.
World’s End Club is set in the 90s and was inspired by work like It and The Goonies.
When World’s End Club begins, a group of misfit elementary schoolers find themselves trapped in an underwater amusement park. Before they can start exploring their surroundings, a mysterious clown appears and orders them to play a game of fate.
World’s End Club currently has a preview version out on iOS, but the full version was supposed to land on Nintendo Switch in Spring of 2021. The release date has now been unveiled as May 28.
Sun Haven
It’s easy to mistake Sun Haven for a garden-variety farming and life sim. It begins in a rural town that’s fallen on hard times, and it’s up to you to restore the town to its former glory. There are crops to grow, animals to raise, and fish to catch.
What makes Sun Haven special is that it features more than one town, and the second town, Withergate, is populated by monsters. If you visit this part of the world, you’ll find strange creatures, futuristic technology, and all kinds of unusual items.
Sun Haven will be available for PC on May 28, 2021.
Back 4 Blood
Back 4 Blood is sort of a spiritual successor to the four-player zombie-blasting Left 4 Dead franchise. Considering we have staffers who cite Left 4 Dead as an all-time favorite, Back 4 Blood is something we’re pretty excited about.
While everything we know about the game suggests this might feel a little bit dated right out of the gate, we’ve been craving some Left 4 Dead-style gameplay for quite some time now. Back 4 Blood should satisfy that craving for us.
Back 4 Blood is due out June 18 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.
Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion
The delightfully named Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion is a Zelda-like that’s all about sticking it to your capitalist overlords. You can make friends, grow crops, solve puzzles, rip up tax documents, and, most importantly, tear down the corrupt vegetable government.
Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion is set to release on Steam in Q2 of 2021.
Peachleaf Pirates
Peachleaf Pirates is a farming sim that’s heavily inspired by point-and-click adventures like Monkey Island. if you’re struggling to wrap your head around that, check out our lengthy interview with the game’s creator, Carl-Frederik Wibroe.
This one blends gorgeous pixel art, a whole ton of charm, and the relaxing day-to-day of island life into one delightful little game.
Peachleaf Pirates is due to land on Steam in June of 2021.
Cozy Grove
Cozy Grove is a game about camping. Unfortunately — or fortunately, depending on your preferences — you’ll be doing that camping on a haunted island that’s constantly changing.
The first thing we noticed about this game was its art style, which reminds us of Don’t Starve. We were also drawn in by its collectathon-style gameplay. The main campaign is said to be around 40 hours, which means this title should keep us busy for quite a while
Cozy Grove is schedule to release on PC in the first half of 2021.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
One of the least-loved games in the ever-lovable Legend of Zelda franchise is getting a second lease on life. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword released toward the end of the Wii’s lifespan, and many thought it was a great game that suffered from a dependence on motion controls.
Finally, the game is coming to Nintendo Switch, and it’s giving players the option to turn off motion controls entirely. Well, sort of.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is due out for Nintendo Switch on July 16, 2021.
Cris Tales
Cris Tales has a really great premise: A girl named Crisbell gets the power to see the past, as well as possible futures. This gives her the power to spot disasters before they happen, and to look into the past for clues about things that are happening in the present. Add to this some gorgeous visuals and an incredibly stylish turn-based combat system, and you’ve got one heck of an RPG.
Cris Tales was supposed to launch in November of 2020, but it got pushed back to July of 2021. When it’s ready, it will arrive for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Steam.
The Good Life
In The Good Life, you play as Naomi, a photographer that’s sent to investigate Rainy Woods, a country town that’s been described as “the happiest place on Earth.” While the residents here do seem to be happy, the town also appears to be hiding plenty of secrets.
This game is the brainchild of SWERY, the creator of the incredible Deadly Premonition. We can’t wait to snap photos, grow vegetables, and ride sheep as we experience The Good Life.
The Good Life is set to release for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC in summer of 2021.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Of course, Capcom isn’t content to release just one Monster Hunter game on Nintendo Switch this year. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin provides a more story-centric twist on the classic Monster Hunter formula. If it’s anything like its predecessor, it will have you befriending and collecting monsters Pokémon-style, and will feature a turn-based battle system. It does all of this with an art style that’s more akin to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (or Genshin Impact) than the mainline Monster Hunter games.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is set to release for Nintendo Switch in the summer of 2021.
Chinatown Detective Agency
We’re always on the lookout for games that will let us live out our detective fantasies. In Chinatown Detective Agency, a cybernoir point-and-click adventure game, players will manage their own detective agency, solve cases, and uncover a worldwide conspiracy.
This title is heavily inspired by the Carmen Sandiego games from the 80s and 90s, and just like in those games, you can use real-world research to solve cases. We’re looking forward to grabbing our magnifying glasses and getting to the bottom of these mysteries.
Chinatown Detective Agency should be out this summer on Steam.
Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny
Disgaea is a series of grid-based tactical RPGs known for their endless grinds and the ability to exploit and cheese your way to victory (which you’re very much encouraged to do). Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny takes this to absurd new heights, with character levels up to 99,9999,999 and potential damage output going into the quadrillions. It’s absurd and insane, but if any game series can pull this off, it’s Disgaea.
Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny is due out summer 2021 for Nintendo Switch.
NEO: The World Ends With You
The World Ends with You was one of the most unique and interesting games on the DS, and we’re thrilled to see the series return with this all-new title. This game features a brand-new cast of characters playing the Reaper’s Game in Shibuya.
So far, Square-Enix has only given us a glimpse of the game’s world, but what they’ve showed so far looks pretty great. The visuals in the announcement trailer are incredibly stylish, and the gameplay looks like it will be a blast.
NEO: The World Ends With You is scheduled for a PS4 and Nintendo Switch release in summer of 2021.
No More Heroes III
No More Heroes is a sexy, stylish, absurdly over-the-top game series from the twisted and beautiful mind of Goichi Suda, AKA Suda 51. In it, you play as Travis Touchdown, a dude who acquires a lightsaber-like laser sword and battles his way up the ranks to become the top assassin in the world.
In between frantic, high-action battles, Travis takes on odd jobs, like mowing people’s lawns and laying piping, to fund his bizarre pastime. He also plays with his cat.
If any of this sounds strange, keep in mind that this is a series in which you save by using the toilet. The term strange barely scratches the surface of the absurdity of No More Heroes.
No More Heroes III was supposed to come out in 2020, but Suda 51 eventually released a heartfelt apology and delayed the game into 2021. The game is now slated for an August 27 release, and it will be a Switch exclusive (for the time being, at least).
Tales of Arise
We love the Tales game, but they’ve always felt a bit like JRPG comfort food. Tales of Arise, the 17th mainline entry in the long-running series, looks like it might be taking things in a bold new direction. The upgraded visuals look lovely, and we’re intrigued by what we’ve seen of the game’s world.
Although this game has an emphasis on 3D visuals, it still has anime cutscenes and the classic 2D skits Tales fans know and love. The game’s producer, Yusuke Tomizawa, has said that they’re aiming to create a JRPG that Japan and the world can be proud of.
Tales of Arise is supposed to come out at some point in 2021. Our hope is that it will be here in the summer or early fall.
Rune Factory 5
It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a new entry in the Rune Factory series; Rune Factory 4 debuted on the 3DS all the way back in 2012. Now, this dungeon crawling/farming sim hybrid is finally continuing in the upcoming Rune Factory 5.
In this title, you’ll be thrust into a role of a peacekeeping ranger. Not only will you have to cultivate crops in your fields, but you’ll need to team up with townsfolk to fight monsters and defend the frontier.
Rune Factory 5 should be out in Japan on May 20. As far as North America, we’re not sure when to expect it, but we’re crossing our fingers and hoping for summer or fall of 2021.
Coral Island
We’re going to be playing a lot of farming games this year, but Coral Island might be the only one that will let us travel underwater. Although this title clearly draws inspiration from classics in the genre, the developers have said that they hope to reimagine the farm sim game.
While we’re looking forward to exploring the underwater map, we’e even more excited to get to know the game’s cast of characters. The NPC designs are absolutely fantastic, and the game’s world looks like it’s bursting with charm.
According to their Kickstarter page, Coral Island is expected to hit Early Access in October of 2021.
One Lonely Outpost
One Lonely Outpost has a simple premise: This is Stardew Valley set in space. That means that instead of ingraining yourself into an already-established village, you’re creating one from scratch. As you build out your colony, new arrivals will come and inhabit it — and these folks sound like an eclectic bunch. It also features genetically engineered crops, which sounds pretty fun.
One Lonely Outpost is slated to release late in 2021 on Steam.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines is a deeply flawed game, but it’s also incredibly engaging. The game is oozing with atmosphere, and it gives players plenty of different ways to approach the game. Whether you’re destroying your enemies, talking it out, or focusing on vampire powers, you’re sure to have a unique experience.
Now, the series is set to continue with the all-new Bloodlines 2. This looks like it will have just as much charm as the original. Hopefully, it will also have fewer bugs and unfinished levels.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is set to release for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X and PC in the second half of 2021.
Digimon Survive
We’re huge fans of the Digimon series, and we love strategy RPGs. Needless to say, we can’t wait for Digimon Survive, a survival strategy RPG set in the Digimon world. With more than 100 Digimon to choose from, there should be plenty of ways to tackle battles.
Digimon Survive was initially supposed to come out in 2019, but it got delayed multiple times. Since producer Habu Kazumasa said we’ll get some timeline updates in Spring of 2021, we’re not expecting this to actually arrive until the second half of 2021.
Whenever it does come out, it will be available on PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Evil West
We’ve been enjoying Westerns quite a lot lately, so Evil West‘s weird-West horror vibe really strikes our fancy. This was first revealed at the Game Awards 2020, and in it, you play as a cowboy who slaughters vampires and zombies. Look, we don’t know much more than that, but even so, this is enough to get us licking our chops for some supernatural Wild West action.
Evil West is slated to be out sometime in 2021 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.
Stray
Stray is a third-person cat adventure game set in a cyberpunk world. If that doesn’t have you sold, you might be interested to know that the game will also let you befriend droids, annoy NPCs, and explore a futuristic city.
While there are plenty of games that let you pet cats, there aren’t that many that let you actually play as a cat. We’re eager to find more about this pawsome game.
Stray is due out on PS5 and Steam at some point in 2021.
Potion Permit
Potion Permit is a combination of an alchemy game, a doctor game, and an RPG. In it, you must talk to sick villagers and find out what’s wrong with them, then go out into the woods to forage for ingredients so you can mix the exact potion they need. It features gorgeous pixel art (which we admit we’re suckers for) and an alchemy system that has puzzle elements to it.
Potion Permit is due out for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, and Mac in 2021.
Goodbye Volcano High
Goodbye Volcano High is definitely one of the stranger titles on this list. This cinematic narrative game is set at an all-dinosaur high school, the aptly named Volcano High.
Of course, these surprisingly stylish dinos won’t just be spending time in the classroom. Several of the characters are members of a band called Worm Drama. A full soundtrack for the game will be released on Bandcamp, and you can preview that soundtrack here.
Goodbye Volcano High is slated for release on PS4, PS4, and Steam in 2021.
Martha Is Dead
Martha Is Dead is a psychological thriller set in 1940s Tuscany. In this first-person adventure title, a woman is left searching for answers after her twin sister, Martha, is found brutally murdered.
While the game is intended to be an exploration of loss and relationships, it also looks like it will have a lot to offer fans of both the mystery and horror genres. This is a dark and violent game that takes full advantage of its historical setting.
Martha Is Dead should be here sometime in 2021. It’s coming to PS4, PS5, Xbox Series S/X and Steam.
Mineko’s Night Market
While you play as a human in Mineko’s Night Market, everything is about cats. You can ride cats. You can craft items for cats. You can even grow cats on your farm.
This narrative-driven social simulation game is heavily inspired by Japanese culture and folklore. We love the visual style, and of course, we love all of the adorable cats.
This game was announced back in 2018, and we’re hopeful that it will finally release this year. Mineko’s Night Market is expected to be out for Nintendo Switch, PC, and Mac at some point in 2021.
Labyrinth of Galleria: Coven of Dusk
We really enjoyed Labyrinth of Refrain: Coven of Dusk, a dungeon crawler from the Disgaea team. Labyrinth of Galleria has a brand-new story, but it features the same addictive mechanics that made Labyrinth of Refrain so much fun to play.
In Labyrinth of Galleria, you’ll be exploring a mysterious dungeon located beneath a palace-like estate. Your character will be summoned to the dungeon by a witch, Madam Malta, who asks you to search for the mysterious treasures located in this underground labyrinth.
Labyrinth of Galleria: Coven of Dusk came out in Japan in November of 2020, but it’s slated for a North American release at some point in 2021.
Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West is the follow-up to the massively popular Horizon Zero Dawn, which we had a lot of fun with. The Horizon games are far-future post-apocalyptical open worlds, where machines have taken over and humanity has reverted back to its prehistoric culture. Perhaps the biggest draw is that this decaying world is populated by herds of mechanical dinosaurs.
This has always been an incredibly cool premise, and we’re excited to see series protagonist Aloy back for a second adventure.
Horizon Forbidden West is slated for release at some point in 2021 for PS4 and PS5.
Dap
We’ve always thought that Pikmin had creepy undertones, but Dap takes that to new extremes. The game is set in an unsettling, Lovecraftian world, and you can only survive with the help of the cute little creatures that you recruit.
We had a chance to play a demo of Dap a while back, and we were really impressed. The dark pixel art is amazing, and while we found a few challenging areas, the game never became frustrating.
At one point, Dap seems to have had a January 12 release date. But that day has come and gone and Dap now has a more generic release window of 2021. Dap will release on Steam.
Garden Story
Garden Story wants you to save the world, but it doesn’t put you in the shoes of a battle-hardened hero. Instead, you play as an adorable grape named Concord. Along with your produce friends, you’ll fight enemies, cultivate gardens, and restore the world around you.
We had a ton of fun with the Garden Story demo, and we’re really eager to see what the full game has to offer. Parts of the demo made us laugh out loud, and the snippets of the lore we’ve seen left us wanting to know more.
Garden Story is due out at some point in 2021 on Nintendo Switch, PC, and Mac.
The Rewinder
The Rewinder is a mysterious adventure game that draws upon Chinese mythology. You play as a man named Qi Yun, who has the power to contact spirits, alter memories, and change the past.
This puzzle-filled game features a beautiful blend of ink painting and pixel art. You’ll also see many Chinese symbols as you explore the world. If you’re a fan of adventure gameplay, folklore, and mysteries, you’re sure to find a lot to love here.
The Rewinder originally had a 2020 release date, but it’s since been pushed back to 2021. It will be available for Nintendo Switch and Steam. While you wait, you can check out the demo on Steam.
She Dreams Elsewhere
In this surreal adventure RPG, you’ll explore a dreamlike landscape and confront your inner nightmares. You play as Thalia, an anxiety-filled woman that’s trapped in a coma. It’s slightly reminiscent of Yume Nikki, but it looks like the finished game will be something that’s completely its own.
She Dreams Elsewhere is set to release in 2021 for Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PC, and Mac.
Diablo II Resurrected
We’re huge fans of the Diablo games here at Half-Glass Gaming, so of course we’re excited by the prospect of playing Diablo II on consoles with a modern graphical overhaul.
This game is pretty much the undisputed king of the dungeon crawler genre. If you like tackling dungoens, slaying legions of demons, and collecting massive piles of loot, you’ve probably already played Diablo II. But whether you’ve sunk hundreds of hours into it, or you’re entering its demonic world for the very first time, we’re quite certain Diablo II Resurrected will be worth the asking price.
Diablo II Resurrected is due out sometime in 2021 for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Little Witch in the Woods
We were enamored with Little Witch in the Woods as soon as we saw its beautiful pixel art. We fell even harder when we realized that we’d be able to use our cauldrons to craft potions and other alchemical goodies.
This magical RPG will be the debut title from Sunny Side Up, a two-person development team based in South Korea. The demo footage we’ve seen is incredibly engaging, and we’re eager to see more of this adorable little title.
Little Witch in the Woods is expected to release on PC sometime in 2021.
Axiom Verge 2
Indie pixel-art Metroidvania games are a dime a dozen these days. However, 2015’s Axiom Verge created a new gold standard for the genre, with an incredibly detailed world, an interesting selection of weapons, and an almost endless replayability that so many other games in the genre lack.
So Axiom Verge 2 is a greatly anticipated follow-up to a Metroidvania masterpiece. It doesn’t sound like it’s diverging from the formula of its predecessor in any meaningful way, but it is offering new characters, weapons, and abilities. And hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Axiom Verge 2 is slated to release for Nintendo Switch at some point in 2021, with additional platforms to be announced at a later date.
Eastward
Eastward is set in the not-too-distant future, when society is on the verge of collapse. A deadly miasma has spread across the land, forcing humans underground. However, not everyone has given up hope of life in the outside world.
We were blown away by Eastward‘s detailed, colorful pixel art and smooth animation when it was announced back in 2018. We’ve also been impressed by the snippets gameplay we’ve seen since then.
Pixpil is hopeful that Eastward will release for PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch in 2021.
Lamentum
We have a huge weakness for pixel horror games, which is why the monstrous art in Lamentum won us over right away. In this spooky title, you need to find a cure for a deadly illness, and the only answers lie in a horrifying mansion.
Lamentum seems like it will be a must-play title for fans of the Cthulu mythos. This indie horror title looks like it would fit right in with the Lovecraft universe.
The PC version of Lamentum was ambitiously shooting for a 2020 release date, with Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Xbox One releases to follow. Obviously, it didn’t hit that goal. Here’s hoping it makes it out in 2021.
Kitaria Fables
Kitaria Fables reminds of us the Level-5 classic Fantasy Life, which is one of the best compliments we can give a video game. This title is set in a world called Canoderia, which is entirely populated by talking animals.
While you can fight monsters while you’re here, you’ll spend a lot of time living your best life. The game promises plenty of farming and crafting, and there are also plenty of NPCs for you to befriend.
Kitaria Fables anticipates a 2021 launch for Steam, PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
The Day Before
The Day Before was only recently revealed, but it caught our eye with its The Last of Us font, Christmas-themed world, and high production values. It’s a post-apocalyptic zombie game that’s billing itself as an MMO, which we’re guessing means it’s set in a persistent open world. We actually don’t know a whole ton about it yet, but the basic premise shows a whole lot of promise.
The Day Before doesn’t have a release date yet, but Steam has it listed as “Coming soon.” We hope that means it will be here by the end of 2021!
Season
Revealed at the Game Awards 2020, Season is a breathtakingly beautiful game that we really don’t know a lot about. We love the art style, and it does seem to have a more heartfelt story rather than an action-heavy one (which we’re perfectly fine with). It also looks to include a photography feature, which we think is really cool.
Season doesn’t have a release date, but we’re hopeful for a late-2021 launch. The game is due out for PS5 and possibly Steam, with speculation that a PS4 version might be available as well.
Monster Harvest
We have a weakness for games with “monster” in the title, so Monster Harvest had us at “Hello.” Thankfully, it has a lot more to offer than a beastly title. The game will let you farm with mutants, collect plant creatures, and explore a strange pixelated world.
Monster Harvest doesn’t currently have a release date, but we’re hopeful that we’ll see it show up before the end of the year. Whenever it’s ready, it should be out on PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake
The Prince of Persia series has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but The Sands of Time was definitely one of the ups. This classic tale is getting remastered in HD, which will give the younger gaming audience — or even the older crowd who missed it the last time around — a chance to experience the magic of this true classic.
Of course, we’re hesitant to get too excited about this one at the risk of being disappointed once again, but if Ubisoft gives this remake the love it deserves, it could be one of the best gaming experiences of this spring.
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake was due out March 18 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, but it’s since been delayed to an unspecified date.
Batman: Gotham Knights
Taking place after the death of Bruce Wayne, Batman: Gotham Knights focuses on the Bat-Family in the aftermath. While non-Rocksteady Arkham-style Batman games have been pretty hit or miss, this one has some real potential. We’re especially excited to see the Court of Owls enter the Batman video-game universe, though we know better than to get our hopes too high.
Batman: Gotham Knights is slated for a 2021 release, though there’s been a lot of speculation that it might be delayed into 2022. We’re hoping this one arrives this year, but we’ll take a delay if it means a better product.
Whenever this one shows up, it should be landing on PS4, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.
