2020 was a significant year in the gaming industry, thanks to the launch of next-generation consoles and graphics cards. But there are many exciting new games to be played in 2021. There are many titles to choose from, including highly-anticipated sequels such as Halo Infinite or Resident Evil Village and brand-new experiences like New World and Deathloop.
We have compiled a list of 2021 games that we loved and the ones we are most excited about. This includes big AAA blockbusters as well as imaginative indie titles. Remember that we have limited inclusion of games with a vague release window of 2021. This is why we don’t include games like Final Fantasy XVI or The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild. As new 2021 titles become available, we’ll update this article.
Here, https://empyreanrule.com/, are some things you can look forward to in the new year.
Age of Empires IV
Real-time strategy enthusiasts have been waiting Age of Empires IV since its announcement in 2017. Age of Empires IV, the 16th installment of the series, is set in the Middle Ages and 8 different civilizations when it launched. The game finally released this year. Players can now take control of some the most powerful kingdoms of human history, including those of the English, French and Mongols.
The Ascent
The Ascent originally was planned to be an Xbox Series X launch title, but it fell into 2021. is a twin stick shooter. The Ascent has a cover system and the ability to target high or low points on enemy targets. All this in an open-world cyberpunk setting. A variety of augments can be added to your character to make it completely unique.
Although Neon Games is a small company, Epic Games was impressed by the early work on this title and awarded Neon a grant to cover development costs. It’s a top-down shooter with co-op that isn’t very original but has lots of style. This game is a must-have for fans who long for the Cyberpunk2077 aesthetic, but also those who enjoy playing with their friends.
Axiom Verge 2
Metroidvanias by indie developers are plentiful nowadays. But the original AxiomVerge stood out due to its tight controls and varied weapons. The Axiom verge 2 will essentially be the same game, with better graphics and more complicated enemy patterns. This game is in development for four years and should be released in early 2021.
Balan Wonderworld
Balan Wunderworld is a modern version of classic platformers from the 32-bit era. The main attraction is the 80 costumes that you can find to unlock new abilities for your characters. You can choose between two characters.
Yuji Naka, Sonic the Hedgehog fame, directed the game. This game is a must-see for fans of platformers from the early 1990s.
Back 4 Blood
Although Valve might not have been able make a new Left 4 Death game, the developer behind the most popular franchise still has plans for a spiritual successor. You’ll be teamed up with three players to fight waves of undead in missions that are constantly changing. This is Left 4 Death. You can also play in a 4v4 match, with one team playing the zombies.
The Alpha was tested and it plays a lot like Left 4 Death. It also has updated graphics which aren’t bad if you don’t miss the classic horde shooting game. This card system gives players and zombies different perks (and buffs), which could make it a popular streaming game.
Battlefield 2042
Battlefield is returning to its futuristic timeline this year. Battlefield2042 is set after global climate change has caused a worldwide blackout. It sees the United States, Russia and China at war over what little resources they have. This is a multiplayer-only game, so you won’t have the chance to explore all of the themes in this campaign.
Online play is impressive with up to 128 players competing on next-generation consoles and PC. Conquest and Breakthrough, as well as classic modes such as Conquest and Breakthrough, will be back in the game. Hazard Zone, a new cooperative mode, will also be available. You can also create your own multiplayer modes with tons of customization options. The results we have seen so far look promising.
Bravely default II
The Bravely default first two games that were released on the 3DS were fantasy RPGs with a unique risk-reward battle system. You could either use brave points to accumulate large damage or default to take less damage per turn. These games were kept fresh even though they could drag on for too much.
Bravely default II is the exclusive Switch port of the series’ unique fighting style. The story and characters are entirely original, true to its Final Fantasy inspirations. You don’t even need to be familiar with any of the older games.
Vanguard: Call of Duty
Call of Duty: Vanguard returns to World War II, marking the first return of Call of Duty since 2017. The story campaign follows an elite group of soldiers as they attempt to end the Nazi war effort. Multiplayer options include the classic favorites, as well as a new mode called Champion Hill which is a tournament-style battle Royale. It will also have its own Zombies mode and a map for Warzone.
Chivalry 2
Chivalry Medieval Warfare was a massive multiplayer hit for the PC in 2012 when it was first released. The community quickly moved on to other games due to lagging support from developers.
The sequel to Torn Banner features next-gen graphics and improved combat. It also boasts massive 64-player battles. Children’s 2 is bloodier and more violent than the predecessor. This battle for supremacy pits the Agatha Knights against Mason Order, leaving the battlefield a mess of corpses. This online multiplayer game is for those who are tired of competitive shooters and have strong stomachs.
Chorus
Chorus is a third-person space combat shooter that aims to change the situation. This single-player game lets you play Nara and her sentient spaceship Forsaken together as they try to find the cult responsible for creating them in the “dark new universe”.
Since last summer’s announcement, we haven’t seen much from Choir. We hope that the silence on the radio will soon end.
CrossfireX
CrossFire is a popular tactical first-person shooting game in China and South Korea. However, it has barely been a success in the West. Microsoft will be exclusive distributor of an updated version to the consoles, hoping it will catch on. Expect plenty of intense, objective-based multiplayer action. Although the series isn’t well-known for its single-player mode, we’re excited to see what Remedy can accomplish with this mode, which follows closely on the excellent Control.
CrossfireX was originally planned to be the Series X launch title, but it was delayed until 2021 because of development problems caused by the coronavirus epidemic. Let’s just hope that we won’t have too long to wait for this one.
Deathloop
Imagine if you could combine the Groundhog Day movie with the Hitman video series. This question was probably not asked before deathloop. Colt is an assassin trapped in a time loop on an isolated island. The party resets every day. Or you will end up back at the beginning of this loop.
has a multiplayer component. This allows players to jump in as Julianna, an assassin who is assigned to take down Colt before he can finish his mission. You should expect some interesting PvP playthroughs.
Microsoft owns Arkane now that it has been acquired by through its purchase of ZeniMax Media, Bethesda Softworks. However, you shouldn’t expect deathloop to be available on the Xbox anytime soon. It is still available exclusively for the PS5/PC.
Diablo 2: Resurrected
While Diablo II’s reputation has significantly improved since its 2012 launch, there is still a group of gamers who prefer Blizzard’s action RPG series. Vicarious Visions knows how important this game is to many people and has stated that it’s not trying to reinvent the wheel for . You can toggle back to the original graphics by pressing a button.
While there will be some improvements in quality of life, such as a shared item stash or automatic gold pickups, don’t expect to make any major changes that would ruin the original experience. These should provide enough to last us until Diablo III hits shelves.
Disgaea 6 – Defiance of Destiny
After several well-received remakes, the first Disgaeatitle in over five years is finally here! The story centers on Zed, a zombie trying to stop the seemingly invincible God of Destruction from slowly destroying all the worlds. You can get your Japanese tactical RPG fix if you are in the west on the Switch.
Dying Light 2
Techland’s sequel to its survival horror action game Dying light is a highly anticipated one. Stay Human brings back the combat and parkour mechanics from the original. It also retains the winning formula for sequels: it’s the same, but bigger and better. Dying light 2 is set in Europe and requires you to build alliances between the warring factions. You will also have to make tough decisions that could lead to serious consequences. Techland is a master at this game, so it’s a great choice.
The Elder Scrolls Online expansion last year finally brought the Skyrim world to the MMO. ZeniMax will continue to bring you blasts from the past. Blackwood this year’s expansion brings back elements of Oblivion with a new campaign that has you facing off against Daedric Princess Mehrunes Dagon 800years before the events in The Elder Scrolls IV. This is all part of the big Gates of Oblivion storyline.
The expansion adds the Blackwood area to the game. It also includes the Imperial city Leyawiin, Oblivion and finally a Companion system. To explore Tamriel, recruit an NPC.
Far Cry 6
We all know what to expect in . You will be able to hop into a tropical paradise and blow up some outposts before you can take over the entire land from the bad guy. After a trip into the American wilderness, Farcry 5 took us to Yara, a fictional Caribbean nation heavily based upon Cuba. We’re sure to be in for some truly wicked villainy with Giancarlo Eposito, of Breaking Bad fame and The Mandalorian fame as El Presidente.
Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker
It’s a miracle Final Fantasy XIV still exists a decade after one of the most disastrous MMORPG launches. Square Enix made things right, and this game is now considered one of the best in the genre.
Endwalker is the fourth major expansion pack for the game. It will end the story of warring gods Hydaelyn, Zodiark and their battles. This game has been in operation since its 2013 relaunch. However, this won’t be the end for the MMO. Square claims it still has many years of stories to tell.
Square promises two new classes in addition to the usual quests and zones. The reaper is a melee-DPS class equipped with a scythe, while the sage is a healer who uses floating swords to battle. These classes are exciting and we can’t wait for them to be tested!
Five Nights at Freddy’s – Security Breach
Steel Wool Studio has been terrorizing gamers with its Five Nights At Freddy’s series for over a decade. Next-generation graphics are expected to increase the fear. The announcement video showed a cool shopping mall decorated in the ’80s. We don’t yet know how the game will play. Security Break will support real-time Raytracing on the PS5 as well as the PC. Freddy and his gang should look great.
Ghosts ‘n goblins Resurrection
The Ghosts’n Goblins series, which was a difficult and frustrating game, has been resurrected after a long absence. is a new installment that doesn’t just remake the original series. It features the classic 2D gameplay of the series, where the knight Arthur fights his way through the hordes and environmental hazards. The new graphics are far better than those of the old NES or SNES games. Worst? This modern version is as brutal as the originals, so prepare to die a lot.
Guilty Gear Strive
Guilty GearStrive introduces new fighters and exciting returning characters to the fighting game. A dedicated dash button is available, as well as a feature that allows opponents to cling onto walls. You can break through walls with enough attacks to initiate stage transition.
You’ll find no better fighting game than this one with its beautiful anime aesthetic. Enjoy the stunning visuals and the great gameplay.
Halo Infinite
After a disappointing unveiling last July, Halo infinite was moved from Series X to Fall 2021. It has been described as both an “sequel” and a “spiritual restart” for the series. 343 Industries will now be releasing the game in Fall 2021. Some clues have already been provided by , an AI character called “The Weapon”.
Many fans were not happy to learn that will have more microtransactions in the form “coatings” (shaders), which can be used to customize Spartans when playing multiplayer. We were able to play Halo Infinite ‘s multiplayer mode , and were very impressed! Let’s just hope that this game delivers as a whole.
Hitman III
The IO’s Hitman games have been redesigned by the company. They simplify the series’ systems and place Agent 47 in large sandbox levels that offer more options than ever before to kill his targets. You can import maps from the previous games and make progress on Hitman III’s improvements across any platform. However, only the PS4 version supports the PSVR headset to get the best Hitman gaming experience.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
The Legend of Zelda series turns 35 this year. Nintendo celebrates the milestone by releasing an HD remaster of one of its most beloved installments. Skyward Sword goes back to the beginning of the Zelda timeline and tells the story about how the legendary Master Sword was made. The adventure is full of fun and exciting experiments with motion control.
It won’t be as popular as the previous games or The Breath of Wild, but this Wii installment is worth the effort, especially if it was missed in 2011.
Mario Golf: Super Rush
Although it’s been quite some time since Nintendo released a new Mario Golf game on Switch, a new installment is now available. Super Rush still offers the classic Mario Golf experience, but it also features a new mode called Speed Golf. This allows competitors to race each other down the course in real-time to see who wins first. This adds some excitement to the already chill vibes.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy
Square Enix’s latest venture into the Marvel universe is just one year after the release Marvel’s Avengers, which was a boring loot shooter that starred Earth’s Mightiest Heroes but left much to be desired. Why are we so excited about Guardians of the Galaxy? It looks a lot more personal, because Star-Lord is now the player’s control. He must use his skills as both a warrior and a leader to keep his band rogue misfits together during large battles.
Eidos is a strong developer of story-focused single-player games. If you like the dialogue and choice-based gameplay from Ex games then Guardians has plenty of it. You’ll also be able to travel to exotic locations throughout the Marvel universe, including Seknarf Nine or Knowhere. This means you won’t have to fight robots and scientists in Utah half the time.
Square Enix’s Marvel make-over. Let’s just hope they don’t waste it.
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
The Mass Effect trilogy has remained a favourite among gamers for nearly a decade. BioWare has given the series a new look with next-gen consoles. The highlights of this collection include an extensive list of improvements including improved visuals and compatibility with 4K. However, the core gameplay and story will remain the same. However, they did make some tweaks to the dang Mako.
Medium
Was originally announced for the Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii U in 2012. However, The Medium was put on hold for many years because of technological limitations before finally returning to life in 2020. Gameplay is about a medium that can instantly travel between the real and spirit worlds to solve puzzles. This was possible only because the current generation of consoles have solid state drives.
Bloober Team quietly has a reputation for creating excellent single-player horror games such as Layers of Fear and Observer. Their most ambitious game, The Medium, is perhaps their best yet.
Metroid Dread
Nintendo calls this “Metroid 5”, an unexpected sequel to the original mainline series Metroid games. It will end Samus Aran’s story with the X parasite. After Metroid Fusion, will see Samus explore the planet ZDR to find and destroy the X parasite. It won’t be easy though. She’ll be chasing down a few villains around the map and she’ll need to make quick decisions while uncovering new Chozo history.
This game seems to be a revival in side-scroller gameplay that we love from the series. There’s also a little bit of horror. This is undoubtedly one of our favorite games for the fall.
Monster Hunter Rise
Although the Monster Hunter World was a great game, it didn’t make it to the Switch due to its more difficult performance requirements. was specifically designed for Nintendo’s portable console hybrid. Capcom’s sequel to World is not a diluted port. It features a more vertical map, all 14 weapons types, and a complete game play experience. Now is the right time to get on board the Monster Hunter craze for the Switch
Snap a New Pokemon
With this revival of the Pokemon Snap series, Nintendo unleashed a peak in late ’90s nostalgia. NEW Pokemon Snap brings back the classic photography game you played as a child. You can capture over 200 Pokemon with your camera and upload them online to share with others. In true Instagram fashion, you can edit your photos by adding blur and filters, zooming in and much more. This is a must have for Nintendo fans.
New World
Amazon has been quietly investing in a variety of projects and its eyes have been on the gaming industry for a while. New World could become its biggest hit. This MMORPG is set in an unnamed area of the Atlantic Ocean in 1600s. You’ll be able to use bows and hammers, magic staffs, musket guns, spears, swords, and other weapons against a wide range of magical creatures. You will have plenty of opportunities for crafting, gathering resources, and building settlements. The best part is that there is no monthly cost to play.
It’s always hard to launch a new IP. MMOs are particularly challenging to enter, but Amazon has the resources and resources to succeed. New World encountered some issues in the beta, but these will hopefully be resolved before the official release.
Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection
Before Dark Souls existed, masochists flock to the Ninja Gaidenseries. This series was the bible of punishing action games. Koei Tecmo will re-release three 3D installments of this franchise in a new collection that is optimized for modern platforms. The box contains Ninja Gaiden Sigma and Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 as well as most of the downloadable content for these games.
Outriders
It combines RPG and shooter genres in unique and exciting ways. You can choose from four classes at the beginning of the game: Technomancer, Fire-controlling Pyromancer or Devastator. Each of these has its own skill tree. Outriders is a more grittier option to live service games such as The Division and Destiny, which some have compared to the title.
Persona 5 Strikers
Atlus has a long tradition of incorporating a Persona game in as many titles as possible. There have been rhythm and dungeon crawler spinoffs of (and even an Super Smash Bros. appearance from Joker), but this is The Phantom Thieves first foray into hack and slash. Gameplay includes the Dynasty Warriors combo attacks as well as turn-based persona fights. You can also expect lots of Persona5’s trademark style and flair.
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
Did Phantasy Star Online2 just come out? Yes, but only in West. The MMORPG may feel a bit outdated because Japan has been playing it since 2012. New Genesis is an update-half-sequel with updated combat and, for the first time, open world areas. This is more of the Final Fantasy XIV update than a new game. It’s possible to transfer your character from to New Genesis. This is a great feature, and it’s also completely free to play.
Psychonauts 2
Double Fine finally released the sequel to Psychonautssequel after 15 years of waiting. Psychonauts2 Raz explores the psyches and fears of different characters with both hilarious and terrifying results. This time, Raz isn’t alone on this adventure. Jack Black voices the Mote of Light. loved this video game!
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Rift Apart is the latest in a long line of Ratchet and Clank games. Although the basic gameplay is similar to the 2016 reboot, Insomniac allows for instant travel between different worlds. Although PlayStation has overhyped how much of the rift jumping takes place in real-time, it is still great fun to explore the multiverse together with our dynamic duo. It’s also stunning because the game supports real-time raytracing and full 4K resolution.
Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is the direct sequel. But Resident Evil 8 is much more. Ethan investigates mysterious occurrences at a remote European village haunted and terrorized by werewolves and vampires. But has Resident Evil really gone all Hammer Horror? Or is there more to these nightmarish creatures than meets the eyes? What are they doing with Ethan’s baby? This survival horror thriller will keep you interested and searching for answers.
Scorn
Scorn seems like a nightmare in the best way. This is, in fact, directly inspired by H.R. Giger, fame, and Zdzislaw Beksinski, a Polish painter. lets you play the role of a skinless humanoid looking for answers in an unimaginable techno-organic open universe. It promises to be the most disturbing title this year, at the very minimum.
Shin Megami Tensei V
The Persona series is the most popular, but the original Shin Megami Tensei franchise continues to be popular. The latest title in this long-running series will be available worldwide next year.
This is the first Shin Megami Tensei title to be developed with the Unreal Engine 4. Expect similar gameplay, including turn-based combat and negotiating with demons in order to get them to join your group.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser Fury on Switch
It was released in 2013 Super Mario 3D World. This game was easily the best Mario game in years. It seamlessly combined the 3D movement from newer games with the level design, multiple characters and level design of the original NES games. You could play as Mario or Princess Peach, Toad or Rosalina. They could also wear catsuits which opened up new platforms. It was only 10 people who played it, as no one bought the Wii U.
The game was re-released this year, which was a good thing. You also get a new campaign called Bowser’s Fury. This is a unique twist on the Mario level structure and well worth a playthrough.
Valheim
Valheim was an unexpected success story that became one of the biggest successes of 2021. It sold more than a million copies in three weeks of its early access release. If you’re not familiar with the Steam phenomenon, it’s like Minecraft mixed with Assassin’s Creed. Up to nine friends and you are dropped off in the middle a Viking afterlife. You must survive, craft, or battle mythical creatures.
Iron Gate AB isn’t quite sure what to expect in future updates. However, the studio teased future customization options that could be used to customize homes and ships and even a new biome.
Wrath: Aeon of Ruin
Although first-person shooters have made great strides in the past two decades, there are times when you just want to get out of your way and fire in a dark fantasy setting. It’s a rare experience that modern games offer. Enter Wrath, Aeon Of Ruin, a spiritual successor for Quake, Doom and Hexen. It was built on the Quake Engine, which is now 25 years old.
Wrath is in Early Access from November 2019. The first release has been very promising. It looks and sounds like a lost PC shooter of the late ’90s. The full game will be available later in the year.
