Things are really starting to heat up in the world of gaming. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles are just a few weeks away. With both next-gen systems due to launch in November, October could have been disappointing. After all, many developers will now be focusing their efforts on producing games for the new consoles.
But that doesn’t mean that there are not plenty of great titles to choose from in October. In fact, the month is actually one of the better periods for game releases in recent times. High-profile games like FIFA 21, Crash Bandicoot 4, and Pikmin 3 Deluxe are all set to arrive. There’s also a great selection of indie titles and lesser-known games. Whatever type of experience you like, you are sure to find something enjoyable this October.
Hazmat Hijinks: Total Meltdown
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: PC
Although it might not look all that impressive, Hazmat Hijinks: Total Meltdown is a content-filled puzzle game. Players take on the role of a worker navigating a hazardous environment. The experience is also clearly inspired by the classic Chip’s Challenge from the Atari era. In total, there are 100 levels to beat and the developers estimate it will take at least 20 hours to complete.
Little Big Workshop
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Little Big Workshop is a factory sim that allows the player to build their own manufacturing empire. With cute graphics and a simplified menu system, the game is coming to consoles for the first time. A seemingly more chilled out sim compared to the more hardcore examples, players can build toys, gadgets, and even vehicles.
Orangeblood
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Developer Grayfax Software describes Orangeblood as a stylish JRPG. Set in an alternate universe, it takes place on a cyberpunk and man-made island off the coast of Japan. The somewhat wacky gameplay crosses genres, with the main characters having connections to criminal gangs and music.
Super Mario Bros. 35
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Super Mario Bros. 35 was actually only announced a few weeks ago. Part of the franchise’s 35th anniversary, it is a battle royale platformer. Heavily inspired by Tetris 99, players battle against others to survive the longest. Yet, every enemy killed can be sent to your opponents, creating havoc on the classic levels from the original game.
Warsaw
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
A turn-based RPG set during World War Two, Warsaw has been available on PC for some time. However, this marks the first time it has come to a console. Players are tasked with fighting against the occupying Nazi forces in the streets of Warsaw in Poland. Ultimately, the goal is to survive for 63 days, with the game taking a stylistic approach to its visuals.
Ys Origin
Release Date: October 1
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Ys Origin is an action role-playing game from Nihon Falcom. Available on a variety of platforms already, it is now coming to Nintendo Switch. Acting as a prequel to the rest of the Ys franchise, it was originally released in 2006 and this is a slightly revamped edition. Players can follow the stories of the three main characters, setting up the action for the rest of the series.
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
Release Date: October 2
Platforms: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
The long-awaited new installment in the classic platforming series. Following on from the success of the original trilogy remaster, Activision greenlit a sequel. Experienced developer Toys for Bob took on development duties, and it is a direct continuation of the story from Crash 3. This time around, though, the hero is working with friends across different realities to stop Cortex from gathering the Quantum Masks.
Let’s Sing Queen
Release Date: October 2
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
The latest entry in the long-running Let’s Sing franchise, this edition focuses entirely on Queen. The British rock group is known around the world, and this game includes 30 of their biggest hits. Even better is that users don’t even need a mic to play the game. A special app allows players to use their smartphones.
Star Wars: Squadrons
Release Date: October 2
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
A surprise announcement earlier this summer, Star Wars: Squadrons is a pilot simulator and space combat game. Set between the original trilogy and the new films, it sees players take on multiple roles. This includes acting as a pilot for both the Empire and the New Republic. Unlike the Rogue Squadron series, this new title focuses on realistic gameplay and has a first-person perspective.
Foregone
Release Date: October 5
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Big Blue Bubble describes Foregone as a “fast and fluid 2D action-platformer” that contains plenty of content. This includes legendary weapons and items. Like many other indie titles, it has a pixel art style but features modern gameplay mechanics. The game also features a compelling story filled with drama and suspense.
Nickelodeon Kart Racers 2: Grand Prix
Release Date: October 6
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
A sequel to the successful Nickelodeon Kart Racers, this new edition features even more characters. Similar to other kart racers like Mario Kart, players can choose popular cartoon characters like SpongeBob and Tommy Pickles. It will also include new courses in addition to a series of remastered tracks from the first game.
Overcrowd: A Commute ‘Em Up
Release Date: October 6
Platforms: PC
Overcrowd: A Commute ‘Em Up is all about designing to the most efficient metro station possible. Everything from the flow of commuters to the priorities of staff can be managed. Players can also set up stores and other facilities to keep those passing through happy.
Game Dev Tycoon
Release Date: October 8
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Game Dev Tycoon is not a new game, however, it is coming to the Nintendo Switch for the first time. Giving players the chance to experience what it is like to develop their own games, it was a surprise hit. The game sees users going from an indie dev working from a garage to a AAA studio.
Ikenfell
Release Date: October 8
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Ikenfell follows a group of magical students who venture out to discover hidden secrets about the world. Featuring a stylistic pixel art style and a quirky story, it also has a unique gameplay mechanic. This sees magic spells being powered by perfectly timing their use in battle.
Ride 4
Release Date: October 8
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
As you might have guessed, Ride 4 is the fourth entry in the motorcycle racing series. Developed by Milestone S.r.l., it provides the ultimate biking experience. Players are able to race across a variety of environments on dozens of different motorcycles in realistic racing.
The Uncertain: Light at the End
Release Date: October 8
Platforms: PC
The Uncertain: Light at the End is an adventure game with a heavy emphasis on narrative. The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. Robots have replaced humanity on the surface and players take on the role of one of the few human survivors. The action will focus on exploring how the world now works with machines in charge.
FIFA 21
Release Date: October 9
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
EA’s annual soccer behemoth is due to launch in October. Although there are no major changes to the gameplay or overall experience, there are some notable improvements. This is most clear in management mode with simulated matches and better training systems. The game also includes the VOLTA Football mode for the second time.
The Survivalists
Release Date: October 9
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
The Survivalists is the latest game from the team behind The Escapists. Featuring similar gameplay to the prison-escape game, this title tasks players with surviving on a remote island. Players must manage resources, construct buildings, and make allies with monkeys in order to be successful.
Remothered: Broken Porcelain
Release Date: October 13
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Remothered: Broken Porcelain is a horror game that acts as a sequel to Remothered: Tormented Fathers. Noted developer Chris Darril is directing the experience, which sees players go through a brand-new story, which takes place at a seemingly haunted mansion known as Ashmann Inn.
Woodsalt
Release Date: October 13
Platforms: PC
An adventure game set thousands of years in the future, Woodsalt sees Earth being abandoned by humanity. A series of climatic events led to its evacuation and the player controls a survivor on a colony waiting to return. But not everything is as it seems and there are plenty of underhand plots and conspiracies to keep humanity away from Earth.
Onee Chanbara Origin
Release Date: October 14
Platforms: PC and PlayStation 4
This HD remake of the two original games in the series brings the PS2 titles to modern hardware. Players are tasked with slaying hordes of zombies in both The Onechanbara and The Onechanbara 2. Meanwhile, the new version will also include the original Japanese voice alongside a new English dub.
Partisans 1941
Release Date: October 14
Platforms: PC
Another game set during World War Two, Partisans 1941 is a stealth RTS experience. Taking charge of a group of guerilla fighters, the player battles the occupying German forces on the Eastern front. But with the action taking place behind enemy lines, staying out of sight is an important factor to survive.
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition
Release Date: October 15
Platforms: PC
This definitive edition of Age of Empires 3 is a complete remaster of the classic real-time strategy game. Featuring brand new improved graphics and all previously released expansions, it is the ultimate version of the title. Microsoft has even added some extra content for players to try out.
Cake Bash
Release Date: October 15
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Cake Bash is a party game that is all about becoming the tastiest cake. Featuring chaotic four-player gameplay, players have to battle against each other in a series of minigames. This means beating out your opponents in a series of unique challenges in a wide array of different areas.
Cloudpunk
Release Date: October 15
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Cloudpunk is an adventure game that has previously been available on PC since April this year. Players act as a delivery driver for an illegal company, where they have to maneuver through a cyberpunk floating city. Their vehicle of choice is a floating hover car that can quickly zoom around the in-game world.
Monster Truck Championship
Release Date: October 15
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Monster Truck Championship claims to be the first ever Monster Truck sim game. Players are able to race against opponents in 16 customizable trucks. Supporting local and online multiplayer, the game also features 25 arenas and three leagues to compete in.
Space Crew
Release Date: October 15
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
A follow-up to the strategic simulation game Bomber Crew, Space Crew features the same basic gameplay. However, this time around players are put in charge of a spaceship. They have to manage the ship by controlling each crew member and battling against an alien threat.
Aquanox Deep Descent
Release Date: October 16
Platforms: PC
After the surface of the Earth is left uninhabitable, humanity flees to underwater cities in the oceans of the planet. Aquanox Deep Descent sees players taking on the role of a pilot of a deep-sea fighter. They must battle against others in the war for resources to cement their colony’s survival.
Crown Trick
Release Date: October 16
Platforms: Nintendo Switch and PC
Crown Trick is a procedurally generated roguelike RPG. With a retro look and smooth animations, players have to battle through an ever-changing labyrinth. It also has a unique gameplay mechanic where time stands still if you do. This allows users to plan out attacks and utilize strategy to defeat enemies.
Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit
Release Date: October 16
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
A mixed-reality game, Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is a new racing game from Nintendo. Rather than take place entirely in-game like other Mario Kart titles, it has a real-life element. RC toy cars respond to actions in the game as players race around their own homes. This action is captured on camera and sent back to the Switch, giving players the chance to create their own tracks.
Amnesia: Rebirth
Release Date: October 20
Platforms: PC and PlayStation 4
Amnesia: Rebirth is a brand-new game in the survival horror series. This time around, Tasi Trianon takes on the title role and must try to put her life back together. This slowly involves piecing together memories of her fragmented past. Of course, there’s also a terrifying creature feeding off your terror the entire time.
Drone Swarm
Release Date: October 20
Platforms: PC
Drone Swarm is a strategy adventure game where players control an army of drones. During each battle, you can utilize up to 32,000 drones to fight against alien fleets across a series of planets. The sheer number of drones gives players the chance to try out imaginative strategies.
The Guise
Release Date: October 20
Platforms: PC
In The Guide, you play as a small boy called Ogden. After trying on a cursed mask, he turns into a terrifying monster. With vastly upgraded physical abilities, the game is a twisted fairytale where Ogden battles to regain his humanity.
LOVE
Release Date: October 21
Platforms: PC
LOVE is a puzzle game all about the interactions between different characters. Taking place in an apartment building, players are able to explore the history of the various other inhabitants. This involves rotating each apartment to solve intricate time puzzles.
DwarfHeim
Release Date: October 22
Platforms: PC
Developer Pineleaf Studio has called DwarfHeim the next-generation of co-op RTS games. It features both PvP and PvE combat across different game modes. Players are also able to build dwarven cities and collect resources to protect against opponents and build new alliances.
Ampersat
Release Date: October 23
Platforms: PC
Ampersat is a strange mix of genres. Inspired by the likes of Smash TV and Zelda, it sees ASCII creatures fighting against each other in colorful arenas. Gameplay revolves around a combination of shooter mechanics and hack-and-slash combat in 50 handcrafted levels.
Transformers: Battlegrounds
Release Date: October 23
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Earth is once again under the threat of invasion from Megatron and the Decepticons. You are tasked with leading Bumblebee and the Autobots in the battle against them. Taking charge of the Transformers in a turn-based tactical war, you can utilize the various special abilities of the robots. Players can even team up with others in multiplayer.
Carto
Release Date: October 27
Platforms: PC and PlayStation 4
Carto is a puzzle adventure game where players have to alter the world to help Carto find her family. Using her skills as a cartography specialist, you can move around map pieces to create a path. Along the way, Carto can discover new characters and learn about their stories.
Cobra Kai: The Karate Kid Saga Continues
Release Date: October 27
Platforms: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
Cobra Kai: The Karate Kid Saga Continues is a side-scrolling beat ‘em up based on the Cobra Kai TV show. The Karate Kid spin-off has grown in popularity recently and led to the development of this game. Unfortunately, little is known about it other than the core fighting gameplay.
Ghostrunner
Release Date: October 27
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Ghostrunner is a cyberpunk-themed game that is coming out in October. The action title puts players into the shoes of a hero who fights in the physical world and cyberspace. Ultimately, players must get to the top of a vast tower by fighting hordes of opponents. Uniquely, just one hit is enough to kill any enemy or the hero.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 4
Release Date: October 27
Platforms: PlayStation 4
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 4 is the final game in the Cold Steel saga. The JRPG continues the story of its predecessor and sticks with the same gameplay for the most part. However, there is a brand-new class and minigames along with a change to the Order and Break systems.
Song of Horror: Complete Edition
Release Date: October 29
Platforms: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
Song of Horror: Complete Edition is a survival horror game that utilizes a fixed camera for its perspective. With no ability to fight against the mysterious Presence, players must hide and stay alert at all times. In the game, you take on the role of a writer’s assistant searching for a missing author.
Watch Dogs Legion
Release Date: October 29
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Watch Dogs Legion is the latest installment in Ubisoft’s hacking-based series. The action-adventure game shifts the setting to an alternate reality version of London. As part of a revamp of the gameplay, you can play as multiple characters but these figures can die permanently.
The Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope
Release Date: October 30
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
The Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope is the latest interactive drama horror game from Supermassive Games. The second entry in a planned eight-part experience and follows on from 2019’s Man of Medan. However, this sequel takes place across multiple timelines with a new cast of characters.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
Release Date: October 30
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Pikmin 3 Deluxe is an enhanced remake of the original 2013 Pikmin 3. That game was released for the Wii U and so has not actually been played by that many people. That should change now, though, and it’s undoubtedly a good thing it is. After all, it received rave reviews and is the final entry in the Pikmin series.
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