Introducing a sneak peek into January 2024’s gaming calendar. The new year is set to kick off with a bang, showcasing renowned franchises like “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” and “Tekken 8.”
That’s definitely not all you can play in this post-holiday period, so let’s cut to the chase and see what this month has in store for us.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
“Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” takes you on an adventure from the neon-lit streets of Japan to the sun-drenched beaches of Hawaii. Scheduled for release on 26 January 2024, this new chapter in the Yakuza saga brings together two heroes: Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu. Together, they find themselves bound by destiny on a quest that takes them to Yokohama and Honolulu.
The game introduces a dynamic turn-based combat system. Each character can choose from a multitude of ‘professions’, acting as classes offering distinct play styles. Kiryu benefits from unique work allowing him to fight in real time, reminiscent of the gameplay in previous Like a Dragon titles. In addition to this, players will have access to a companion summoning system, calling on a variety of characters from the franchise, for even more epic battles.
New mini-games are being introduced, including Crazy Delivery, inspired by the Crazy Taxi franchise, and Sujimon Battle, a parody of Pokémon.
“Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” is a bold title, combining the series’ trademark humor with innovative gameplay elements and deep storytelling. This new episode in the Yakuza saga will hit PC, PlayStation and Xbox on the 26th of January, 2024.
Tekken 8
Tekken 8 marks the return of the legendary fighting franchise, scheduled for release on 26th of January 2024. This new opus from Bandai Namco promises to revolutionize the series with some notable innovations. Using the Unreal Engine 5, “Tekken 8” offers breathtaking visuals.
The game introduces refreshing combat mechanics, including a Special Style mode that simplifies controls for new players, while retaining complexity for long-time fans. The ‘Heat’ system allows characters to activate special actions, increasing the dynamic of confrontations. In ‘Heat Burst’ mode, players can choose between a ‘Heat Dash’ to charge the opponent or a ‘Heat Smash’ for a powerful attack. “Tekken 8” also enriches its gameplay with Rage Art, a devastating super move accessible when the character’s health is severely depleted.
With a roster of 32 fighters, including the likes of Jun Kazama, Nina Williams, and Marshall Law, “Tekken 8” offers impressive diversity for all fighting styles.
“Tekken 8” will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and PC.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
The Prince of Persia series returns on the 18th of January 2024 with “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown”. This new episode, developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, is set in the rich world of Persian mythology and takes the form of a 2.5D Metroidvania-style game.
In the shoes of Sargon, an ‘Immortal’ with almost divine powers, players will traverse environments that are as magnificent as they are dangerous. The verticality of the maps and the discovery of traps, hidden entrances and various dangers make exploration both intriguing and stimulating. The game incorporates combat and puzzle elements that test players’ skills while remaining true to the essence of the “Prince of Persia” series.
Players will encounter ancient entities capable of forging legendary weapons, discover mystical trees granting amulets of power, and face impressive bosses such as the mythical manticore, Jahandar.
The promise of great replayability, with areas that unlock as skills and abilities are upgraded, boosts the overall experience.
Expected to be released on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch, the game looks to rekindle the magic of the series while introducing some welcome innovations.
The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
Naughty Dog is back with The Last of Us: Part II – Remastered. The studio’s classic and exceptional title will be available on PS5 with a brand new Rogue Lite game mode, as well as improved graphics.
Called “No Return” and presented as a survival experience, you can play ‘on your own’ as Ellie, Abby, Dina, Jesse, Lev, Tommy and many others. Each with their own style of play and weapons.
This remaster also features lost levels that were not included in the original game, along with audio commentary from the developers.
The Last of Us: Part 2 – Remastered will be out exclusively on PS5 on the 19th of January.
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
Get ready for an anarchic adventure with “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League”, launching in Early Access on the 30th of January 2024. Set in the sprawling chaos of the Arkhamverse, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is a third-person shooter in which you play as the famous team of villains from the DC Comics universe.
Along with a single-player experience, the game features an online co-op mode for up to four players.
Assemble your squad of anti-heroes, each with unique abilities and questionable moral motivations, to take on a Justice League. Your mission: to save the Earth from the clutches of Brainiac. The adventure awaits you on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.
Howl
Enter the mystical and mysterious world of “Howl”, due for release on the 23rd of January 2024. In this turn-based tactical puzzle game, you’ll navigate a land cursed by a strange plague, turning men into beasts. As a deaf heroine, your quest for a cure is a silent dance through a haunting and bewitching world.
Combining folklore and strategy, this game depicts a world where every move is a crucial decision, set against a backdrop of visually captivating landscapes. Embark on this thought-provoking journey on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank
“Turnip Boy Robs a Bank” is a whimsical and absurd escapade. You hop on an unexpected journey with a turnip boy turned bank robber. Amid the chaos of bank robberies, you’ll face intense gun battles and evade security in a world that’s as hilarious as it is unpredictable.
This game offers a mix of action and strategy, with a unique dose of comedy. It’s a zany adventure where every heist is a twist and every moment a laugh, ready to entertain on PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One on the 18th of January 2024.
Palworld
“Palworld” is a multiplayer survival game scheduled for early release on PC this January. In this multiplayer survival adventure, you venture into a world where cohabitation with creatures called Pals, reminiscent of the famous Pokémon, is at the heart of the experience. These Pals, with their unique abilities and varied designs, accompany you on your quest for survival, exploration and construction.
Palworld promises a rich adventure, where your creativity and strategy will determine your success in a world where Pals are more than just companions. Available on PC, this game promises to be an ode to adventure and discovery, for all fans of creature games and exploration.
Bulletstorm VR
Scheduled for release on the 18 of January, “Bulletstorm VR” is a virtual reality action game that puts you in the boots of Grayson Hunt, a space mercenary. In this hostile world, your mission is to shoot, kick and lasso anything that crosses your path.
The game world is designed to take full advantage of the immersive capabilities of VR, putting you right at the heart of the action.
With a variety of weapons at your disposal and gameplay that encourages creativity in combat, “Bulletstorm VR” promises a fun gaming experience, where brutality and ingenuity are the keys to survival.
“Bulletstorm VR” will be available on Meta Quest 2 and PSVR2.
Choo-Choo Charles
“Choo-Choo Charles” invites you into a world where horror meets humor in a unique and surprising way. Scheduled for release on the 18th of January for Nintendo Switch, this game, primarily designed by one person, is a striking example of passion and creativity. Although it lacks the ambition of a AAA title, the whole project demonstrates a clear love for gaming and its concept.
In “Choo-Choo Charles”, the island you find yourself on becomes the scene of a terrifying hunt. You’ll interact with colorful characters like the Pickle Lady, while keeping your guard up against the terrifying Charles, a train-like mechanical monster with spider legs that can appear at any moment. Encounters with Charles are both frightening and unpredictable, cleverly blending horror and humor.
The game is peppered with references to other horror games, subtly and naturally integrated into the universe.
The real star of the show, Charles, is a mixture of terror and comedy. His presence is a constant threat, his whistle heralding moments of sheer panic. It’s in this balance between offbeat humor and tense moments that “Choo-Choo Charles” excels, delivering a memorable gaming experience.
“Choo-Choo Charles” is a game to discover for those looking for a horror experience like no other, unpredictable and full of surprises.
Our roundup of the most anticipated games for January promises an exciting start to the year for video game fans. From the epic adventure of “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” to the thrilling action of “Tekken 8” and the return of the classic “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown”, there’s something for everyone. Reach out and drop us a line about games you’re most looking forward to at the start of the year.
