As the year progresses, the anticipation for new gaming experiences often builds, especially when considering the significant releases still expected. Looking back at prior predictions, such as those made at the close of 2019 for the upcoming year, often reveals exciting developments. It is understood that many PC gamers are keenly awaiting the next wave of immersive titles to arrive on their screens. The video above provides an insightful update on some of the most compelling games slated for the latter half of 2020. This curated selection focuses on specific standout experiences, carefully avoiding a simple re-tread of previously discussed blockbusters.
This article expands on the thrilling details introduced in the video, providing further context and exploring the potential impact of these highly anticipated games. Each title is presented with additional depth, allowing readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its unique offerings. For those seeking new worlds to explore, challenging narratives, or innovative gameplay mechanics, a treasure trove of content is being prepared for release. The following sections delve into these upcoming PC game releases, highlighting what makes each one a noteworthy addition to the gaming landscape.
Upcoming PC Games: A Deeper Look into 2020’s Second Half
Death Stranding: Hideo Kojima’s Delivery Saga on PC
The unique vision of Hideo Kojima was brought to PC with Death Stranding, a game that previously captivated and bewildered players on PlayStation 4. This delivery driver simulator is undeniably a conversation starter, presenting a narrative that is steeped in symbolism and thought-provoking themes. Imagine if your primary mission involved traversing a broken nation, not with weapons, but with packages, all while iconic actors like Norman Reedus (from The Walking Dead) guide the way. It is a striking portrayal of connection and isolation within a post-apocalyptic world.
The gameplay loop of Death Stranding, which revolves around navigating treacherous landscapes and managing cargo, is often balanced with its compelling asynchronous multiplayer features. Players are encouraged to assist one another by leaving helpful items or structures, fostering a sense of communal effort across the divided land. This cooperative spirit is intended to help rebuild the world, one delivery at a time. Visually, the game is also a marvel, with its stunning environments and intricate character models being particularly praised.
Horizon Zero Dawn: A Post-Apocalyptic Saga Arrives on PC
Another former PlayStation 4 exclusive, Horizon Zero Dawn, was introduced to the PC platform, bringing its expansive action RPG experience to a wider audience. In this title, players assume the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter in a world overrun by awe-inspiring robotic creatures. The overarching goal involves saving humanity from these corrupted machines, all while unraveling the mysteries of Aloy’s own past and the downfall of the old world. It is a journey filled with both grand adventure and personal discovery.
While some of the game’s side quests were considered to be somewhat repetitive, the main narrative arc is widely regarded as incredibly strong and engaging from start to finish. Combat against the varied machine fauna, such as colossal robot crocodiles and jaguars, is a true highlight. Success often depends on assessing each machine’s weaknesses and strategically utilizing Aloy’s diverse arsenal of weapons. The game’s visual fidelity, which was already impressive on consoles, was expected to be further enhanced on PC, offering an even more breathtaking experience.
Mortal Shell: A New Take on the Souls-like Formula
The profound influence of FromSoftware’s ‘Souls’ series is clearly observable in Mortal Shell, yet this game works to establish its own distinct identity. It is understood that simply categorizing it as another ‘Souls-like’ would overlook its unique mechanics and approach. While the game does feature the deliberate, heavy combat and challenging difficulty often associated with the genre, it introduces an innovative “shell” system. Players acquire the skills and characteristics of fallen warriors by inhabiting their discarded ‘shells,’ which effectively function as different classes or loadouts.
This mechanic, where one can imagine wearing the armor and abilities of a heroic, yet deceased, figure, adds a strategic layer to combat and exploration. Each shell offers a different playstyle, encouraging players to experiment and adapt to various encounters. The world of Mortal Shell is depicted as unforgiving, twisted, and visually striking, promising an intense and memorable experience for those who appreciate a formidable challenge within a rich, dark fantasy setting.
Ghostrunner: Cyber-Ninja Action in a Dystopian Spire
Ghostrunner delivers an exhilarating blend of fast-paced parkour, intense combat, and a compelling cyberpunk aesthetic. This game is often described as a fusion of Mirror’s Edge’s fluid movement, Titanfall’s verticality, and Hotline Miami’s brutal one-hit-kill mechanics. Players control a cyber-ninja, navigating a massive dystopian tower where precision and speed are paramount. Imagine being a agile warrior, expertly dodging bullets in slow motion and dispatching enemies with a single, perfectly timed strike.
The core gameplay loop involves climbing this perilous tower, encountering new mechanics and gadgets along the way to confront whatever dark secret lies at its summit. Developers indicated that the action would consistently evolve, introducing fresh challenges to maintain the exhilarating pace. While the primary selling point is its thrilling gameplay, a compelling narrative layer could elevate Ghostrunner to a truly special status within the action genre. A demo was made available on Steam, allowing players to sample its intense action firsthand.
Kerbal Space Program 2: Expanding the Cosmic Frontier
The much-loved space flight simulation game, Kerbal Space Program, was slated to receive a highly anticipated sequel. For those who found the original game’s steep learning curve somewhat daunting, it was reassuring to learn that the tutorial system in KSP2 was significantly improved. This enhancement aims to make the complex world of rocketry and orbital mechanics more accessible to newcomers, ensuring a smoother entry point into the vastness of space exploration.
However, experienced cosmic voyagers were also considered, with KSP2 introducing ambitious new features. Players are expected to construct elaborate space colonies, venturing far beyond the familiar Kerbal system through innovative interstellar travel mechanics. Furthermore, the inclusion of multiplayer capabilities means that aspiring astronauts can collaborate on rocket designs and space missions with friends, sharing both the triumphs and humorous failures of space engineering. It is an opportunity to explore the cosmos alongside companions, perhaps even assigning blame for any unexpected explosions.
Little Nightmares II: More Eerie Tales Unfold
A fresh installment of unsettling horrors was prepared for Little Nightmares II, a puzzle-platformer known for its distinct atmosphere. While its predecessor was more unsettling than outright scary, its evocative imagery often lingered in the mind long after play ceased. In this sequel, the familiar windbreaker-wearing protagonist, Six, is joined by a new character, Mono, a small boy notable for his readiness to use a ladle as a weapon. This new companionship promises different dynamics within the game’s eerie environments.
Fans were assured that the game would not pivot towards a combat-focused experience. Instead, the developers, Tarsier Studios, emphasized providing players with varied approaches to overcome situations, maintaining the series’ focus on stealth, puzzles, and atmospheric tension. The visual style, character design, and environmental storytelling are expected to continue their tradition of creating a world that is both captivating and deeply disturbing, challenging players to navigate its dangers without resorting to direct confrontation.
Chivalry II: Refined Medieval Mayhem on a Grand Scale
Chivalry II was presented as a significant evolution of its predecessor, Chivalry: Medieval Warfare, promising an even more expansive and visceral medieval combat experience. The original game allowed up to 32 players to engage in close-quarters sword fighting; its sequel was designed to accommodate up to 64 players on vast battlefields, intensifying the scale of conflict. Imagine massive sieges and open-field battles, where the clang of steel and the roar of combatants fill the air.
A notable addition in Chivalry II is the ability to engage in mounted combat, allowing players to perform “drive-bys” on horseback, adding a new dimension to tactical engagements. Torn Banner Studios aimed to refine the limb-chopping, slapstick fun that defined the original eight years prior. While comparisons were inevitably drawn to other medieval combat titles like Mordhau, Chivalry II was observed to feature a prettier aesthetic. The true test, however, would be in its nuanced gameplay and how it translates to the hands-on experience of hacking and slashing.
Little Hope: Decisions in the Dark Pictures Anthology
Dismemberment, though perhaps less humorous than in Chivalry, was anticipated in Little Hope, the second of eight planned entries in Supermassive Games’ Dark Pictures Anthology. This interactive horror game places players in control of five teenagers who find themselves stranded in a desolate ghost town. Similar to its predecessor, Man of Medan, the narrative progresses through player choices made via dialogue options, with each decision impacting the unfolding story and the fate of the quintet.
The primary objective is to escape the town alive, ideally with all characters surviving the ordeal. While the previous installment did not quite reach the critical acclaim of the studio’s earlier hit, Until Dawn, expectations remained high for Little Hope to deliver a compelling and terrifying experience. The game explores themes of witchcraft and historical hauntings, creating a chilling atmosphere where past and present horrors intertwine, influencing the characters’ desperate struggle for survival.
Baldur’s Gate III: A Return to D&D Grandeur
After a two-decade wait, fans of the Baldur’s Gate series were finally nearing the release of its third main installment, with an early access period confirmed for PC in 2020. This highly anticipated CRPG, developed by Larian Studios (known for Divinity: Original Sin II), promised a rich Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition rulebook experience. While the combat system shifted from real-time with pause to a more tactical turn-based approach, it was said to implement D&D rules in wonderfully engaging ways.
Imagine a rogue character finally achieving their full potential with great-looking stealth mechanics. The depth of character customization, the intricate death mechanics, and the dynamic companion interactions were all highlighted as key features. Baldur’s Gate III was set to offer an unparalleled D&D adventure, allowing players to delve into a world rich with lore, strategic combat, and meaningful choices that could shape their journey and relationships within the vast fantasy realm.
Psychonauts II: Raz’s Psychic Journey Continues
On the topic of eagerly awaited sequels, Psychonauts II was also scheduled for a late 2020 launch, having been announced at the 2015 Game Awards. Double Fine’s third-person platformer sees the return of protagonist Razputin Aquato, who has now officially joined the ranks of the Psychonauts. This childhood dream, however, is met with the challenge of a psychic spy organization in disarray, tasking Raz with saving it from internal threats.
Raz gains an array of new psychic powers, which are utilized to battle literal demons within the minds of a diverse cast of new characters. The game is expected to push the boundaries of creative level design and unique mental landscapes, striving to match or even surpass the bizarre and memorable environments of the original. From initial impressions, Psychonauts II was shaping up nicely, promising a platforming adventure filled with humor, heart, and mind-bending challenges.
Immortals Fenyx Rising (Formerly Gods & Monsters): Greek Mythology Explored
From the talented minds behind Assassin’s Creed Odyssey came a game focused less on bloodshed but equally steeped in mythology, originally titled Gods & Monsters before being renamed Immortals Fenyx Rising. This visually stunning open-world action-adventure game was designed to immerse players in ancient Greece, where they embark on a quest to rescue the gods from a dangerous curse. Imagine an interactive storybook come to life, filled with mythical beasts and divine challenges.
The influence of Odyssey is apparent in its mythological setting, but the game also draws clear inspiration from The Legend of Zelda, particularly with its Breath of the Wild-esque art style. Puzzles and dungeons are expected to play a significant role in the gameplay, offering intellectual challenges alongside the action. This cartoon-like take on Greek mythology was poised to offer a fresh and intriguing experience, blending exploration, combat, and brain-teasing elements within a vibrant, stylized world.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Viking Raids and Epic Sagas
Following its historical settings in Egypt and Greece, the Assassin’s Creed series ventured into the rugged landscapes of Britain with Valhalla, placing players in 873 AD as Eivor, a formidable Viking warrior. Eivor’s mission involves confronting the Anglo-Saxons on their own territory, amidst the tumultuous era of Viking expansion. This entry in the series places a strong emphasis on player agency, allowing for gender selection and dialogue options that shape not only Eivor’s character but also the world around them.
Decisions made during the game are expected to influence various aspects, including romantic relationships, adding a personal layer to the grand narrative. The game encompasses a vast array of features, from establishing and growing a Viking settlement to leading raids and participating in large-scale battles. There is so much content available in the game that it is difficult to summarize it succinctly. Fans were assured that ample coverage and details about Valhalla would be provided later in the year, preparing them for an epic saga of conquest and exploration.
Spiritfarer: A Cozy Management Game About Dying
Thunder Lotus Games, known for their work with Norse mythology, presented a remarkably different tone with Spiritfarer, described as a “cozy management game about dying.” This unique premise places players in the role of Stella, a Spiritfarer who transports the recently deceased to the afterlife. Unlike most games where death is an ending, Spiritfarer makes it the central theme, exploring it with grace and sensitivity. It is a journey that, while dealing with loss, often celebrates life and the memories shared.
The game involves building and managing a ferry, fulfilling the last wishes of various spirit characters, and providing comfort as they prepare to move on. Spiritfarer is recognized for its hand-drawn art style, charming characters, and emotional depth. Of all the games highlighted, it was considered the most likely to elicit tears from players, offering a poignant and reflective experience that focuses on compassion, connection, and the gentle acceptance of farewells.
Outriders: A Gritty Co-op RPG Shooter
In an industry where expensive new ideas are sometimes viewed as financial risks, publishers occasionally opt for more established formulas, such as integrating superheroes. However, Square Enix also supported titles like Outriders, a distinct RPG shooter from People Can Fly, the developers behind the acclaimed Bulletstorm. While its name may not immediately excite, the premise of Outriders is intriguing: a sci-fi co-op shooter in the vein of Destiny or Anthem, but with a strong emphasis on robust gunplay.
This sci-fi adventure allows players to team up with two friends and cooperative play through its entire campaign. Crucially, the developers emphasized that Outriders would not be a “games-as-a-service” title and would forego microtransactions, a refreshing stance in the modern gaming landscape. Players are expected to immerse themselves in a world of advanced weaponry, diverse character classes with unique abilities, and a dark, desperate narrative set on a hostile alien planet.
Dirt 5: Dynamic Off-Road Racing Adventures
One enjoyable trend in recent years has been the inclusion of substantial story modes within racing games, adding narrative depth to the thrill of competition. Codemasters was reportedly committed to delivering a strong career mode for Dirt 5, featuring a voice cast led by talents like Nolan North and Troy Baker. This dedication to storytelling aims to provide a richer context for the high-octane off-road racing that the series is renowned for.
On the track, players can expect the signature quality of Dirt’s off-road experience. Taking inspiration from titles like Forza Horizon, Dirt 5 was designed to feature dynamic changing seasons, significantly altering how a course plays depending on the time of year. Imagine racing through a muddy track in spring, only to tackle the same route on a frozen lake in winter. Events were confirmed to take place in diverse global locations such as New York, Brazil, China, and Norway, promising a varied and visually spectacular racing journey.
Grounded: Survival at a Miniature Scale
The classic film “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” clearly served as a major inspiration for Grounded, the next game from Obsidian Entertainment, the studio behind The Outer Worlds. In this unique survival title, players assume the role of a child who has been miniaturized, transforming a seemingly ordinary backyard into a colossal and dangerous wilderness. Imagine a world where every blade of grass is a towering tree and every insect is a terrifying monster.
The primary objective involves surviving the myriad dangers lurking in this newly vast environment, particularly hungry and potentially deadly creepy crawlies – a challenging prospect for arachnophobes. Beyond merely fighting off giant ants and constructing rudimentary shelters, Grounded also incorporates a narrative element. While the game was launched in early access in July, signaling that its story might not be fully developed initially, it holds significant potential for a compelling and creative survival experience.
Crusader Kings III: Mastering Medieval Dynasties
The grand strategy RPG hybrid Crusader Kings made its return with the highly anticipated third installment in the series. In Crusader Kings III, players control the head of a medieval dynasty, overseeing a realm and its populace through generations. The game offers immense freedom, allowing players to embody a benevolent ruler or a ruthless tyrant. When a character eventually dies, control is then passed to their chosen heir, perpetuating the dynastic cycle.
Unlike many other games of this genre, Crusader Kings places a strong emphasis on role-playing, where personal traits, relationships, and intrigue are paramount. Players must carefully consider how their actions will impact current alliances and future dynastic prospects. This robust and complex game promises to delight fans with its deep systems, intricate character interactions, and the ability to craft unique medieval sagas through strategic decision-making and dramatic personal narratives.
Disintegration: A Sci-Fi FPS/RTS Hybrid
From the co-creator of Halo came Disintegration, a bold blend of first-person shooter (FPS) and real-time strategy (RTS) genres. Players command a gravity-defying motorcycle, known as a gravcycle, from which they issue orders to their loyal ground troops. The core gameplay loop often involves directing these units to engage enemies and secure objectives, all while the player simultaneously uses the gravcycle’s arsenal to combat other airborne commanders.
This unique setup demands a dual focus: executing precise gravcycle maneuvers and targeting, alongside strategic troop deployment and ability management. Imagine coordinating ground unit movements to flank enemies, while simultaneously engaging in aerial dogfights. While the game’s shooter pedigree might initially attract players, the depth of its strategic layer was expected to be what truly encourages long-term engagement, offering a refreshing twist on traditional combat mechanics.
Sable: A Journey of Discovery and Exploration
Sable was highly anticipated as an indie darling, largely due to its breathtaking Studio Ghibli-inspired art style, which captivated many attendees at various conventions. The game’s sun-kissed desert landscapes, which players traverse on a hoverbike, bear an undeniable resemblance to classic animated films, inviting a sense of wonder and peaceful exploration. Imagine gliding across vast, open plains, uncovering ancient ruins and meeting intriguing characters.
Uniquely, Sable eschews a traditional linear narrative structure; instead, the journey is primarily dictated by player exploration and interaction with the world. It is a combat-free experience, focusing entirely on puzzles, discovery, and a coming-of-age story within its captivating open world. For players who appreciate serene environments, intriguing mysteries, and an emphasis on personal narrative without the pressure of combat, Sable was poised to offer a truly distinctive and memorable adventure.
Yakuza: Like A Dragon: A Bold New Chapter
Saving a particularly exciting title for last, Yakuza: Like A Dragon was confirmed for a PC release in 2020. For those unfamiliar with the long-running Yakuza series, this installment serves as an excellent entry point due to its significant departures from previous games. While it is the seventh main entry, the most striking change is the shift from the series’ iconic beat ’em up combat to a full-fledged turn-based RPG system.
The game introduces a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, replacing the beloved Kazuma Kiryu, and shifts the primary setting to Yokohama. In combat, players are required to strategically choose actions for Kasuga and his party, deciding whether to unleash a powerful area-of-effect attack or prioritize curing a bleeding status. Despite these fundamental changes, the quintessential Yakuza experience remains intact, promising a plethora of engaging mini-games such as karaoke, darts, and even new additions like kart racing, ensuring the series’ signature charm and humor are well preserved.
