August 2024 Gaming Lineup: Unveiling the Hottest New Releases
With over 200 new titles typically launching across major platforms each month, distinguishing the must-play experiences from the merely interesting can be a challenge. August 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal month for gamers, signaling the start of the traditional fall deluge of big releases. While not quite as overwhelming as some years, this August delivers a rich assortment of games, spanning highly anticipated open-world adventures, strategic turn-based combat, and thrilling remasters across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch. This detailed guide complements the video above, offering an in-depth look at 15 of the biggest titles arriving on the gaming scene this month, ensuring you’re ready for every epic launch.
New Games of August 2024: A Diverse Collection of Titles
The **new games of August 2024** bring a fresh wave of innovation and excitement to the gaming calendar. From expansive universes to intimate narratives, these **upcoming games in August** are poised to capture imaginations and provide countless hours of entertainment. Players can look forward to diving into a variety of genres, experiencing everything from high-octane action to thoughtful strategy.
1. Star Wars Outlaws (August 30th)
Prepare to delve into the criminal underworld of a galaxy far, far away with *Star Wars Outlaws*, launching on August 30th for Xbox Series X and S, PS5, and PC. This groundbreaking title marks the first-ever open-world, single-player *Star Wars* game, an ambitious undertaking by Ubisoft’s Massive Entertainment. Set crucially between *The Empire Strikes Back* and *Return of the Jedi*, it chronicles the journey of scoundrel Kay Vess and her loyal companion, Nix, as they navigate the treacherous Outer Rim. The narrative centers on a daring heist, requiring players to forge and break alliances with various syndicates, traverse diverse planetary locations, and engage in thrilling space battles. The promise of extensive character customization and impactful decision-making suggests a deeply immersive experience for fans of the iconic franchise.
2. SteamWorld Heist 2 (August 8th)
The unique blend of turn-based, side-scrolling strategy with real-time aiming makes a welcome return in *SteamWorld Heist 2*, arriving on August 8th for PS4, PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X and S. Players assume the role of Captain Quincy Leeway, leading a crew of steambots on a mission to solve a critical water crisis. This adventure involves infiltrating restricted bases, clashing with an oppressive Navy, and overcoming various other threats. A significant new feature is the real-time naval combat encountered in the overworld, adding another layer to the strategic gameplay. Furthermore, the introduction of a robust job system allows each steambot to equip different weapons, thereby altering their class and abilities. Character leveling facilitates the mixing and matching of skills, enabling powerful and personalized combat combinations.
3. Sam and Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered (August 14th)
The beloved freelance police duo, Sam and Max, make a triumphant return in a remastered edition of Telltale’s 2010 adventure, *Sam and Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered*. Launching on August 14th for PS4, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch, this classic point-and-click adventure sees the eccentric pair confronting a galaxy-trotting cadre of villains after Max unexpectedly develops psychic powers. These newfound abilities, including mind-reading and clairvoyance, introduce fresh puzzle mechanics to the franchise. Players can expect the series’ signature blend of unorthodox characters and baffling puzzles, now enhanced with a new hint system, updated lighting, improved lip-syncing, and re-orchestrated music. This remaster provides a fantastic opportunity for both long-time fans and newcomers to experience one of the duo’s most acclaimed video game escapades.
4. Kena: Bridge of Spirits Xbox (August 15th)
Ember Lab’s critically acclaimed 3D action-adventure, *Kena: Bridge of Spirits*, finally makes its debut on Xbox Series X and S and Xbox One on August 15th. This long-awaited port includes all the content from the Anniversary DLC, featuring new outfits, challenging Spirit Guide Trials, and a New Game Plus mode that ramps up the difficulty of battles. Xbox players will also receive exclusive in-game items, such as pirate hats for their adorable Rot companions, a golden Rot skin, and a unique staff. Priced at $39.99, this release offers an excellent opportunity for a new audience to experience Kena’s emotionally resonant journey and visually stunning world, filled with charming creatures and challenging combat encounters.
5. Madden NFL 25 (August 16th)
Following the successful launch of *College Football 25*, anticipation builds for *Madden NFL 25*, hitting shelves on August 16th for Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, and PC. This iteration promises several key enhancements to the venerable sports simulation series. Beyond new broadcast teams and a revamped franchise mode, the highlight is “Boom Tech,” a dynamic physics-based tackling system designed to deliver more impactful and realistic collisions. Carrier balance and recovery mechanics have also been retooled, allowing ball carriers to absorb hits and push through tackles with greater authenticity. Whether these refinements will elevate *Madden NFL 25* to compete with the renewed enthusiasm for college football remains to be seen, but the improvements signal a commitment to evolving the core gameplay experience.
6. Black Myth: Wukong (August 20th)
Four years after its initial reveal captivated the gaming world, Game Science’s highly anticipated *Black Myth: Wukong* is set to launch on August 20th for PS5 and PC. Drawing deep inspiration from the classic Chinese novel *Journey to the West*, players take on the mantle of the Destined One, a powerful monkey wielding an extendable staff. The game promises intense, fast-paced melee combat, emphasizing precise dodging and magical abilities against a formidable roster of over 100 distinct enemy types. With an estimated 15 hours of gameplay in the main story, complemented by truly spectacular visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5, *Black Myth: Wukong* aims to deliver a challenging and visually stunning Souls-like experience steeped in rich mythology.
7. Dustborn (August 20th)
From Red Thread Games, the developers behind *Dreamfall Chapters*, comes *Dustborn*, an unconventional adventure game launching on August 20th for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, and PC. Players embark on a dystopian road trip as Pax, an “Anomal” with the extraordinary ability to use words to compel others. The core gameplay revolves around delivering a mysterious package across a fragmented republic, blending combat against robots with intricate conversations among an eclectic cast of characters. Decisions made throughout the journey are touted to have significant ramifications on the narrative, suggesting a branching story that encourages multiple playthroughs. This title offers a unique narrative-driven experience with a fascinating central mechanic.
8. Concord (August 23rd)
Firewalk Studios’ hero shooter, *Concord*, aims for a better response upon its full launch on August 23rd for PS5 and PC, priced at $39.99. Despite a mixed reception during its open beta, the game promises a robust offering at release, including 12 distinct maps and six varied game modes. The initial roster of characters will be consistent, but the title emphasizes extensive customization, with hundreds of earnable cosmetic items and several unique variants per character. Crucially, *Concord* will not feature a battle pass, a design choice that might appeal to players tired of seasonal monetization schemes. The focus on vibrant characters and strategic team play hopes to carve out a niche in the competitive hero shooter landscape.
9. World of Warcraft: The War Within (August 22nd)
*World of Warcraft* embarks on an ambitious new trilogy with *The War Within*, its first installment launching on August 22nd for PC. Following the events of Dragonflight, players will venture into Khaz Algar, an entirely new continent beneath the surface of Azeroth. This expansion introduces four unique zones, eight new dungeons, and various activities, including “Delves,” which can be tackled solo or cooperatively. Furthermore, players will discover new Hero Talents, additional talents, and abilities, all complemented by an increased level cap. *The War Within* aims to deepen the lore and expand endgame content, promising to refresh the long-running MMORPG experience for its dedicated player base.
10. Core Keeper 1.0 (August 27th)
Pugstorm’s *Core Keeper* has already garnered significant success during its early access period, racking up over 91% positive reviews and attracting more than 2 million players since its 2022 debut. The highly anticipated 1.0 version officially launches on August 27th for Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, PS4, PS5, and PC. The premise is elegantly simple yet infinitely engaging: up to eight players venture into a vast underground cavern to mine their way to the core. This sandbox adventure involves collecting resources, crafting advanced tools and weapons, automating processes, fishing, exploring multiple biomes, and battling formidable Titans. Its full release is expected to bring even more content and polish to an already compelling co-op experience.
11. Gundam Breaker 4 (August 29th)
For fans of customizable mechs, *Gundam Breaker 4* provides a compelling substitute following the discontinuation of *Gundam Evolution*. Launching on August 29th for PS4, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch, this action RPG empowers players with extensive customization options, utilizing over 250 different Gunpla kits. The joy lies in assembling a unique mobile suit and then taking it into battle, where breaking off enemy parts can further augment your creation. The game also features optional online modes for competitive play and a Diorama function for admiring your meticulously crafted units. At a far more affordable price point, *Gundam Breaker 4* is poised to be an enthusiast’s dream, offering unparalleled creative freedom and thrilling combat.
12. Monster Jam Showdown (August 29th)
While August 2024 is surprisingly light on racing titles, Milestone’s *Monster Jam Showdown* roars onto the scene on August 29th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, PS4, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. This title immerses players in the adrenaline-fueled world of monster truck racing, allowing control of various iconic trucks across diverse off-road locations. Whether tackling the non-linear challenges of the Showdown Tour or honing stunt skills in the Extreme Freestyle mode, there’s plenty to do. With over 40 distinct trucks and 10 game modes, *Monster Jam Showdown* offers a unique and high-octane racing experience that stands apart from conventional circuit racers, making it a potentially worthwhile diversion for genre enthusiasts.
13. Squirrel With A Gun (August 29th)
Don’t let the whimsical title fool you; *Squirrel With A Gun* from Deedee Creation is more than just its literal premise. Launching on August 29th for PC, with an Xbox Series X and S release planned for “this fall,” this sandbox shooter also incorporates elements of puzzling and platforming. Players can engage in chaotic encounters with strange agents, utilizing an absurd arsenal including rocket launchers, grenade launchers, and six-shooters. Alternatively, the game allows for open-world exploration, interacting with and often harassing the neighborhood’s citizens. Its blend of humor, open-ended gameplay, and unique concept promises a delightfully unconventional gaming experience.
14. Deathbound (August 8th)
For those craving a more traditional Souls-like experience, *Deathbound* arrives on August 8th for Xbox Series X and S, PS5, and PC. Set in a medieval world grappling with its sci-fi roots, the game’s central mechanic involves channeling fallen warriors and strategically utilizing their unique abilities in combat. Synergizing the spirits of these warriors and building up the “sync meter” to unleash powerful attacks is crucial for survival. However, numerous challenging foes await, designed to test players’ combat prowess and strategic thinking. With promises of over 20 hours of gameplay and a New Game Plus mode, *Deathbound* is set to deliver a demanding yet rewarding action RPG experience.
15. Level Zero: Extraction (August 13th)
Extraction shooters have emerged as a significant trend, and *Level Zero: Extraction* aims to carve out its own niche when it enters early access for PC on August 13th. This title introduces intriguing twists to the formula, placing players in teams of two, equipped with various military weapons and extensive customization options, tasked with gathering loot and extracting safely. However, each map is fraught with environmental hazards like mines and monstrous mutants. A unique element allows opposing players to control a powerful alien equipped with cloaking abilities and an EMP, adding a terrifying asymmetrical PvPvE layer. Described as a blend of *Escape From Tarkov* and *GTFO*, it could well be a dark horse in the crowded extraction shooter market, offering a fresh take on the genre.
This impressive roster of **August 2024 game releases** guarantees that there’s something for every type of gamer. From expansive adventures like *Star Wars Outlaws* to strategic titles such as *SteamWorld Heist 2*, these **new games of August 2024** are poised to define the start of the autumn gaming season. Be sure to mark your calendars for these exciting launches.
