After this year’s E3 convention, many 360 gamers were worried that Microsoft was blowing its entire load with the 360’s holiday line up and that this fall’s monsoon of games would result in a drought next year. But many games slated for this fall were pushed back, and joined an already impressive number of titles currently expected in the New Year. So have no fears about the industry running out of great games, because 2008 is looking like another incredible year for the Xbox 360 no matter what kind of games you prefer. So let’s take a look at what’s coming….
10. Devil May Cry 4
Although it took four games, Xbox gamers are finally going to be able to get their hands on the Devil May Cry Series. This time around, the usual series protagonist Dante will not be the main playable character. Instead, you’ll play as Nero; whose one arm resembles a demon’s and is the source for his Devil Bringer Power. This power will bring a new combat feature in addition to guns and swords, allowing him to grab distant enemies. Not much else is known about the story of the game. Dante’s involvement has been confirmed but remains a mystery.
For more info on Devil May Cry 4
9. Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
Out of all the aspects of the Star Wars universe, the Force is probably one of the best resources for a videogame, and Lucas Arts is planning on using the concept, along with new technology to make sure players can feel its power. Using the Havok physics engine and the Euphoria engine (which gives all NPC’s a nervous system that causes their animations to react in real time to various stimuli), the game will ensure players are given an enormous amount of interactivity with the world using the Force. The story takes place between episodes 3 and 4, and you will play as Darth Vader’s secret apprentice, who has yet to be named. So far the trailers have shown the force powers having a tremendous effect on the environment and enemies. Lucas Arts has also stated that the storyline will contain highly significant events that will echo throughout the Star Wars universe, making this one of the most important Star Wars games in a long time
For more info on Star Wars Force Unleased
8. Turok
Ever since Turok: Evolution, the series has been on a bit of a hiatus, and with the last game it definitely didn’t go out with a bang. However there is hope as Propaganda Games is attempting to breathe new life into the series by going back to what makes a classic Turok experience. The game features lush jungle environments loaded with enemies both dinosaur and human. Also, the player will be able to provoke dinosaurs to working for their advantage, and have them attack their human opponents. However, if the dinosaurs decide that you look like a meal a mini-game type brawl will break out. Although there is the usual layout of high tech guns, more basic weapons like the bow and knife have been given more uses for stealthy gameplay. Hopefully these changes will give Turok back that primal feel of hunting, and being hunted by, one of nature’s most terrifying creations.
For more info on Turok
7. Mercenaries 2
The first Mercenaries was probably the most original take on the sandbox game since Grand Theft Auto, so it’s only natural to have high expectations for the sequel. Developer Pandemic has set the game in Venezuela, which has been invaded by various factions after a tyrant seizes control over the country’s oil supply. This time gamers will have to work a little harder to hijack vehicles by completing a mini game to boot the operator out of the controls. Another new feature is the ability to build a Private Military Company, and hire mercenaries to assist you in battle. Finally, gamers will be able to participate in the fun together with co op, which should make for a great addition to the open ended gameplay.
For more info on Mercenaries 2
6. Condemned 2: Bloodshot
The first Condemned was one of the best 360 launch titles and is still regarded as one of the scariest games the console has to offer. Condemned 2 takes place a year after the first game, where the main character Ethan, has become a homeless alcoholic, and will be suffering from even more severe illusions than last time. The innovative melee combat of the series will make a return with an all new fighting system featuring offensive and defensive combos, as well as over 40 finishing moves. Multiplayer will also be included featuring modes such as Deathmatch, Circle of Death, and a hobo fighting arena, at the moment the number of players supported has not been confirmed.
For more info on Condemned 2: Bloodshot
I’m thinking EndWar and Force Unleashed are the two I am interested in the most...