On August 7, Sony streamed its latest State Of Play. The event was advertised ahead of time to be focussing mostly on PS4 and PSVR titles, with a few updates on previously announced PS5 titles.
It was a pretty comprehensive event, giving viewers plenty of things to look forward to for the current gen, and a good look at some next-gen gameplay. Here’s what we saw:
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
The next instalment of the Crash Bandicoot series was first up, showing off its 3D platforming credentials, revealing that Dingodile will be a playable character and launching a new game mode, called “N. Verted Mode”.
Hitman III
IO Interactive was next, revealing that the entire Hitman trilogy is going to be payable on PSVR from January 2021.
Braid: Anniversary Edition
2008’s highly acclaimed puzzler is getting an anniversary edition. This edition has had a few features polished, including upgraded hand-painted graphics and new animations. Braid: Anniversary Edition will be coming to PS4 and PS5 in early 2021.
The Pathless
Coming from developers Annapurna Interactive and Giant Squid, The Pathless was given a lengthy gameplay slot in this State Of Play, having previously been announced for PS4 in 2018. The open-world game takes places in a forest, and sees an archer joining forces in order to free the lands from a dark curse. The game has some interesting concepts behind it, and features a distinctive art style. The game will be available this year for both PS4 and PS5, though the developers note that the next-gen version promises no load-times and greater immersion.
Spelunky 2
Viewers got a new look at the charming runner roguelite Spelunky 2. In addition to some new weaponry, it was announced that the game will be coming to PS4 this September. Others platforms will be getting a release, but we’re not sure when.
Genshin Impact
This game has had attracted a lot of chatter online due to its apparent similarities to the Switch game, The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild. Though the Nintendo release was almost undoubtably an inspiration, the trailer showcased many new and exciting RPG and open-world features.
Aeon Must Die
This new twist on the beat-em-up genre was quickly overshadowed when its developers jumped online to claim that the game was stolen, and that they haven't been paid for their work (via Koaku).
ANNO: Mutationem
ANNO is an action-adventure cyberpunk game that combines 2D and 3D modes to offer players a new and exciting gaming experience. This one promises to be an exciting addition to the PlayStation’s catalogue.
Bugsnax gameplay
One of the most talked about games from the Future Of Gaming event, the bonkers PS5 Bugsnax was given the chance to show off its gameplay.
Vader Immortal
Previously an Oculus exclusive, the critically acclaimed Star Wars: Vader Immortal is coming to the PSVR on August 25.
Control: AWE Expansion
AWE is the second expansion coming to Remedy Entertainment’s action-adventure hit Control – astute viewers will have recognised the appearance of Alan Wake. The DLC will be available form August 27.
Auto Chess
Auto Chess in an all-new chess game, with a battling competitive twist. It’s not at all like actual chess. It’ll be coming to the PS4.
The Pedestrian
The Pedestrian is a unique puzzle-platformer game, in which the player must travel through various signs to progress through the game. It will be available for PS4 in January 2021.
Hood: Outlaws & Legends
This third-person title takes on the stealth-action genre in a new PvPvE environment. The premise, clearly inspired by Robin Hood folk lore, appears to have two medieval squads heading out to reclaim treasure from the corrupt ruling powers. In doing so, the player is expected to deal with AI guards and the rival band of outlaws.
Hood is being developed by Sumo Digital, and will be heading to PS4 and PS5 sometime in 2021.
Temtem
The bright and joyful Pokémon-inspired MMO Temtem will be making its way to the PS5 in 2021.
Godfall gameplay
The State Of Play finished up with an extensive look at the upcoming PS5 launch title, Godfall, complete with a comprehensive exploration of the in-game mechanics. You can watch the gameplay here: