As we head toward the holiday season, the cadence of video game releases only ramps up. August was already a strong month with games like Black Myth: Wukong and Star Wars Outlaws, and September doesn’t look like it will be a slouch either. While September boasts a couple of big AAA games, it’s also a fantastic month for niche games that appeal to specific gaming preferences. To help you navigate this exciting gaming landscape, here’s a curated list of eight standout titles (and a surprise bonus!) coming out this month that deserve your attention.
The Casting of Frank Stone (September 3)
If you enjoyed Until Dawn, The Dark Pictures games, or The Quarry, Supermassive Games’ cinematic adventure horror titles, then The Casting of Frank Stone is a must-watch. This narrative adventure, set in the universe of the popular asymmetrical multiplayer game Dead by Daylight, promises a thrilling experience for both Dead by Daylight enthusiasts and fans of Supermassive’s interactive storytelling. Explore the lore of Dead by Daylight or simply delve into another captivating Supermassive Games adventure. The Casting of Frank Stone launches for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S on September 3.
Astro Bot (September 6)
Remember Astro’s Playroom, the charming pack-in title for the PS5? Get ready for its full-fledged sequel, Astro Bot! This 3D platformer is set to be a delightful journey filled with cameos and references to beloved PlayStation franchises, from God of War to Bloodborne. Expect familiar faces and nods to various PlayStation titles, including some deeper cuts. Beyond the nostalgic references, Astro Bot promises a creative and approachable platforming experience for gamers of all ages. It’s one of the most anticipated games of the year and deserves a spot on your radar. Astro Bot launches exclusively for PS5 on September 6.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (September 9)
Fans of the original Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, hailed as one of the best Warhammer video games ever, rejoice! Its sequel, developed by the creators of the critically acclaimed World War Z, is on its way. Utilizing technology from World War Z, Space Marine 2 promises massive hordes of enemies for the titular space marines to conquer. Expect a campaign, co-op modes, and competitive multiplayer, making this a must-have for third-person shooter fans. Space Marine 2 has the potential to break into the mainstream gaming scene like no other Warhammer game before. It launches for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S on September 9.
UFO 50 (September 18)
For fans of classic shareware PC games, the creators of Spelunky have a surprise in store: UFO 50. This unique release is a collection of 50 retro-inspired games, all crafted by a fictional game developer over eight years. These games have resurfaced for the modern gaming era in this comprehensive package. UFO 50 goes beyond simple minigames; expect full-fledged platformers, fighting games, RPGs, and more. With a month already packed with games, UFO 50 adds an additional 50 potential gems to your September gaming lineup. UFO 50 launches for PC on September 18.
Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster (September 19)
Capcom fans, rejoice! The dormant zombie game franchise, Dead Rising, is back with Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster, a faithful remake of the 2006 original. This remaster retains the original game’s charm and quirks while incorporating modern features like autosave and the ability to move and shoot simultaneously. It’s a chance to revisit this classic or experience it for the first time. Here’s hoping this successful remaster paves the way for a new entry in the series. Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster launches for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S on September 19.
Frostpunk 2 (September 20)
Prepare for the next chapter in the intense survival city-builder, Frostpunk. Frostpunk 2 takes the original’s intimate experience to a grander scale. Instead of managing individual buildings in a single area, players now oversee entire districts in a full-fledged city-builder. Expect even more intense decision-making and stress as you navigate the challenges of managing your city on a grand scale. Frostpunk 2 launches for PC on September 20.
Ara: History Untold (September 24)
Fans of 4X strategy games like Sid Meier’s Civilization VI and Humankind, prepare to be enthralled by Ara: History Untold. This game tasks players with guiding a nation through history, balancing factors like happiness and wealth while expanding their civilization. Ara: History Untold stands out with its intricate territory customization options, allowing players to optimize resource generation and productivity. This complex game offers a deep learning curve, which is exactly what ambitious 4X game enthusiasts desire. Ara: History Untold launches for PC on September 24.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (September 24)
Just over a year after The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, we’re getting another ambitious Zelda game. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom adopts the aesthetic and perspective of the 2019 remake of Link’s Awakening, but puts players in the shoes of Zelda. This game emphasizes puzzle-solving and creativity, utilizing Zelda’s Tri-Rod to capture and manipulate enemies and bind herself to objects, similar to Tears of the Kingdom. Echoes of Wisdom delivers a long-awaited opportunity for Zelda fans to play as the titular character. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on September 24.
A Bonus Surprise: 50 Games in One!
In addition to these eight standout releases, September also sees the arrival of UFO 50. This collection of 50 retro-inspired games, all developed by a fictional game developer, presents a surprising wealth of gaming experiences. From platformers to fighting games and RPGs, UFO 50 offers a diverse and nostalgic gaming adventure. With a vast selection of games within one package, UFO 50 adds another layer of depth to September’s already impressive gaming lineup. UFO 50 launches for PC on September 18.
So, buckle up and prepare for a September brimming with gaming excitement. Whether you crave AAA experiences or niche delights, this month has something for everyone. Happy gaming!
