Deep Dive into Upcoming PC Games: Your Essential Guide to 2020, 2021 & Beyond
As highlighted in the video above, the world of PC gaming is continually evolving, with an astonishing array of titles on the horizon. Indeed, with over 500 games slated for release between now and the end of 2021, the digital landscape promises a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of player. This extensive list includes everything from monumental triple-A blockbusters to innovative indie gems and intricate strategy simulations. Consequently, discerning which titles truly warrant your attention can be a significant undertaking. We have meticulously sifted through the multitude of upcoming PC games to present an expanded look at some of the most anticipated releases, offering insights into what makes them stand out in this crowded market.
Immediate Arrivals: September 2020’s Premier PC Game Releases
September ushers in a wave of exciting new adventures, proving that the digital playgrounds are never truly static. From tactical warfare to grand sagas, these titles offer diverse experiences for PC enthusiasts.
Iron Harvest: Dieselpunk Warfare Unleashed
This game captured considerable attention due to its distinctive visual style, which brings the striking dieselpunk art of Polish artist Jakub Różalski to life within a real-time strategy (RTS) environment. Imagine a world where giant walking war machines, powered by internal combustion engines, lumber across pastoral European battlefields. This creates a compelling juxtaposition of rustic charm and advanced, albeit grimy, technology. Years in the making, *Iron Harvest* is finally set to deploy. The latest trailers confirm a vibrant and action-packed experience, replete with powerful mechs, heavy artillery, and explosive engagements. This game is not merely about quiet strategy; it promises intense, visceral RTS action, akin to directing a cinematic war epic. It launched on September 1st, offering a fresh take on historical fiction with a mechanical twist.
Crusader Kings 3: Reigniting Grand Strategy’s Flame
Strategy games form a cornerstone of PC gaming’s storied history, and few series embody this more thoroughly than *Crusader Kings*. The predecessor, *Crusader Kings 2*, remains a paragon of grand strategy. Its successor, *Crusader Kings 3*, continues this legacy, offering players an unparalleled medieval experience. This iteration further refines the signature formula of dynastic management, political intrigue, and personal storytelling. It integrates even more robust RPG elements, allowing players to shape not just kingdoms, but the very personalities and destinies of their rulers and their sprawling families. Improvements to character systems and the user interface ensure a more immersive and accessible journey into feudal power struggles. This intricate tapestry of governance and personal drama arrived on September 1st, inviting players to forge their own empires.
Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning: A Second Chance at Fantasy
In 2012, *Kingdoms of Amalur* was recognized as one of the year’s best-received titles, captivating players with its vibrant fantasy world and dynamic action-RPG combat. Now, THQ Nordic is offering a refined version with *Re-Reckoning*. This remaster provides a definitive experience, allowing both new and returning players to explore the mystical lands of Amalur with significantly improved visuals and enhanced gameplay mechanics. Moreover, this version includes all previously released downloadable content (DLC), making it a comprehensive package. For those who missed its initial run, or wish to revisit a beloved classic with a fresh coat of paint, this is an excellent opportunity. *Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning* became available on September 8th, promising an enriched journey through an expansive magical realm.
Stronghold: Warlords: Eastern Empires Beckon
Another venerated name in strategy gaming, Firefly Studios’ *Stronghold* series, continues its tradition of castle-building and siege warfare. *Stronghold: Warlords* transports players to an entirely new setting: Asia. Here, players will navigate the complex geopolitical landscapes of Khans, Shoguns, and, of course, Warlords. Beyond the compelling new environment and historical factions, this entry is heralded as the series’ most visually stunning title to date. The graphics showcase a significant leap in quality, rendering intricate castles and detailed landscapes with unprecedented fidelity. It promises both engaging strategic depth and a feast for the eyes, presenting a new level of graphical fidelity. This strategic journey to the East commenced on September 29th.
As the leaves change, the gaming calendar unveils some of the year’s most high-profile releases, promising epic narratives and groundbreaking gameplay experiences.
Star Wars: Squadrons: Dogfights in a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Previously shrouded in secrecy as “Project Maverick,” EA’s *Star Wars: Squadrons* delivers a focused, intense space combat experience within the iconic *Star Wars* universe. Players assume direct control of legendary starfighters, whether soaring through the cosmos in an agile X-Wing or unleashing havoc in a formidable TIE Fighter. The core of the game revolves around thrilling 5v5 multiplayer dogfights, where teamwork and piloting skill are paramount. Furthermore, it features a compelling single-player campaign set during the climactic final days of the Galactic Civil War, allowing players to witness untold stories from both sides of the conflict. This multi-platform release, offering a visceral taste of interstellar aerial combat, arrived on October 2nd.
Watch Dogs: Legion: London’s Digital Revolution
Despite facing several delays, the digital revolution portrayed in *Watch Dogs: Legion* is undeniably still on track. This title’s most compelling innovation lies in its “play as anyone” mechanic, allowing players to recruit virtually any non-player character (NPC) encountered in the dystopian London into their burgeoning resistance movement. Imagine approaching a random pedestrian, uncovering their skills and background, and then bringing them into your fight against oppressive forces. Recent presentations have vividly demonstrated the diverse approaches players can take, from stealthy infiltration to all-out cyber warfare, fostering emergent gameplay opportunities at every turn. This unique take on open-world action-adventure offered players the chance to ignite their rebellion from October 29th.
Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla: A Viking Saga Unfolds
Ubisoft’s highly anticipated *Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla* represents the latest evolution in the venerable series. The franchise’s progressive shift towards deeper RPG mechanics and exploration of mythological societies finds a natural home in the world of Norse Vikings. While some initial gameplay reveals may have left a few gamers yearning for more “next-gen” graphical prowess, the game promises a deep dive into rich historical and mythological narratives. Fans are eager to experience another expansive open world, filled with exploration, combat, and intricate lore. This epic Viking saga, a blend of historical fact and legendary myth, set sail on November 17th.
Cyberpunk 2077: The Future is Now
For years, *Cyberpunk 2077* has been a beacon of anticipation, and developer CD Projekt Red has skillfully maintained this intense hype. They have consistently delivered deeper and more intricate previews into the sprawling world and complex gameplay of their latest masterpiece. We have been treated to detailed character trailers, unveiling the diverse personalities that populate Night City, and extensive tours of this neon-drenched, dystopian metropolis. The countdown to its release has been a global event, promising an unparalleled immersive experience. This highly awaited title, a landmark in sci-fi RPGs, finally arrived on November 19th, inviting players to lose themselves in its intricate future.
Glimpses Beyond: 2021 and Further Horizons for PC Gaming
The future of PC gaming extends far beyond the current year, with a host of innovative titles and beloved sequels promising to redefine our expectations.
Far Cry 6: The Face of Tyranny
The *Far Cry* series is renowned for its iconic villains, and *Far Cry 6* is set to continue this tradition with the unforgettable portrayal of dictator Antón Castillo, brought to life by the menacing Giancarlo Esposito. Set in the fictional Caribbean island nation of Yara, its capital, Esperanza, is described as the series’ most impressive and expansive urban environment yet. This offers players a vast, dynamic playground to dismantle the oppressive government through any means necessary. While a significant wait remains, with its release scheduled for February 18th, 2021, the promise of a gripping narrative and an open-ended combat sandbox continues to fuel excitement.
The Medium: A Split Reality Horror
Bloober Team, acclaimed for psychological horror titles such as *Layers of Fear*, *Observer*, and *Blair Witch*, is poised to deliver another unsettling experience with *The Medium*. This first-person horror game takes place in an alternate reality Poland, masterfully employing psychological horror tropes and mind-bending shifts in perspective. It draws clear inspiration from the atmospheric dread of Konami’s *Silent Hill* series, focusing on a deep, character-driven story rather than jump scares. The game’s unique mechanic of navigating two realities simultaneously promises a novel approach to puzzle-solving and terror. Expected sometime this holiday season, it aims to deliver a truly unnerving journey.
Halo Infinite: The Master Chief’s Next Chapter
The recent Xbox Series X presentation finally unveiled gameplay for *Halo Infinite*, the latest entry in Microsoft’s exclusive first-person shooter (FPS) series. While initial reactions were mixed, with some confusion regarding plot points and disappointment over supposedly “next-gen” graphics, the core gameplay appears to be heading in a promising direction. The expansive, open-world approach to combat and exploration signals a fresh direction for the franchise. Ultimately, curiosity regarding the Master Chief’s next epic adventure will likely outweigh early criticisms. Anticipated for release sometime this holiday season, it aims to reset and re-energize the beloved science-fiction saga.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2: A Warrior’s Continued Ordeal
Ninja Theory’s original *Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice* was a breakout success, demonstrating that a small team could deliver a compelling, high-quality experience. *Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2* continues the powerful and deeply personal story of Senua, set against a stark Nordic environment. The stunning reveal trailer suggests that her inner demons have intensified, and the action sequences are poised to become even more visceral and impactful. This sequel promises another deeply immersive and emotionally resonant journey, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual fidelity. Slated for release sometime this holiday season, it aims to delve deeper into psychological horror and intense combat.
World of Warcraft: Shadowlands: Beyond the Veil
While a new *Diablo* entry may be a distant dream for many, Blizzard maintains its presence on the anticipated list with another monumental expansion for its venerable massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), *World of Warcraft*. *Shadowlands* takes players to the afterlife, initiated by the dramatic destruction of the Helm of Domination in a truly epic cinematic. In terms of new content, players can expect to explore five new, distinct zones, conquer challenging dungeons, and test their mettle in the formidable Tower of the Damned. While a solid release date remains unannounced, this expansive new chapter is expected sometime this fall, inviting players to explore the realms of death.
Godfall: High-Fantasy Hack-and-Slash
Gearbox Studios, known for the anarchic chaos of their *Borderlands* series, is preparing to launch a new hack-and-slash intellectual property (IP) with *Godfall*. This title pivots dramatically from their previous work, immersing players in a world of high fantasy, complete with intricate magic systems and elaborate medieval weaponry. While it may not introduce entirely groundbreaking mechanics, the allure lies in seeing what Gearbox’s unique flair brings to this established genre. Players are curious to witness their interpretation of a high-stakes fantasy adventure. This new title, promising intense melee combat and loot-driven progression, is slated for release late this year.
Stalker 2: Return to the Zone
With a renewed public interest in the Chernobyl incident, the timing is ripe for a new opportunity to plunge into the chilling, radioactive environments of the *Stalker* series. After a period of relative silence, the recent Xbox showcase finally offered a glimpse into what this upcoming sequel might entail. The trailer not only maintained the ominous atmosphere characteristic of the series but also showcased breathtaking graphical fidelity. While an official release date has not yet been confirmed, *Stalker 2* appears to be a deserving continuation, promising a long-awaited and deeply atmospheric experience.
Avowed: Obsidian’s Fantasy RPG
Obsidian Entertainment, celebrated for its rich narrative RPGs, is preparing to immerse players in another fantasy-based, first-person role-playing adventure with *Avowed*. Set within the expansive universe of their *Pillars of Eternity* series, this game allows players to experience the world of Eora from a fresh perspective. From the revealed trailer, it appears to promise a *Skyrim*-like experience, blending powerful magic with visceral melee combat. With *Elder Scrolls 6* still a distant prospect, *Avowed* could very well capture the spotlight with an earlier release. Unfortunately, a firm release date is yet to be announced, leaving fans to eagerly anticipate this new entry into a beloved universe.
Project Athia: Square Enix’s Enigmatic Vision
Square Enix is maintaining a high degree of secrecy around its latest title announcement, currently operating under the working title *Project Athia*. The game appeared visually stunning in its debut trailer, featuring a female protagonist navigating a strikingly beautiful yet bleak fantasy environment. Speculation abounds that this could potentially be the next major *Final Fantasy* installment, given its cinematic quality and fantastical setting. However, without a confirmed release date or official details, the precise nature of *Project Athia* remains shrouded in mystery, leaving much to the imagination of eager players.
Witchfire: Dark Fantasy Shooters
The Astronauts, who recently garnered success with the atmospheric mystery of *The Vanishing of Ethan Carter*, are poised to return to their more action-oriented roots with *Witchfire*. This title transports players to 15th-century Europe, where they will engage in intense shootouts against witches and various magical Gothic creatures. Promising a more action-packed experience than their previous success, *Witchfire* has been given additional time for refinement to ensure polished graphics and seamless gameplay. While a specific release date is not yet available, further announcements are expected soon, signaling a return to visceral, dark fantasy combat.
Baldur’s Gate 3: A Classic Reimagined
Larian Studios has consistently dominated the RPG scene with their critically acclaimed *Divinity* series. Therefore, entrusting them with the revival of a classic RPG like *Baldur’s Gate* was an intuitive choice. This iteration brings the magic of Dungeons & Dragons’ 5th Edition to life, allowing players to choose diverse classes and meticulously build their characters. The ultimate goal is to combat the nefarious, brain-hungry Mind Flayers in a truly epic fantasy adventure. While early access was not available in August as initially hoped, the actual release date is anticipated soon, promising a rich, tactical, and deeply immersive role-playing experience.
Forza Motorsport: Peak Racing Realism
The upcoming *Forza Motorsport* title marks a significant entry for the new generation of gaming hardware. The official announcement trailer, while revealing few specific gameplay details, showcased footage captured directly within the game engine. This demonstrated an extraordinary level of realism, hinting at peak graphical fidelity in racing simulations. The experience of driving iconic cars on meticulously rendered tracks is poised to reach new heights. This title remains veiled in mystery, yet the promise of unparalleled automotive realism excites racing enthusiasts. We anticipate more details will be unveiled in due course.
Everwild: A Vision of Wilderness
Rare, a studio well-known for its gorgeous aesthetics, is developing *Everwild*, an upcoming Microsoft exclusive. This title embraces a charming aesthetic reminiscent of *Breath of the Wild*, employing it to portray a fantastical and vibrant wilderness. Rare has consistently delivered visually stunning games, and *Everwild* appears to uphold this reputation. While no release date has been confirmed, the game promises a captivating journey through a beautifully rendered natural world, filled with mystery and unique creatures.
Age of Empires 4: The Next Generation of RTS
First announced in 2017, last year saw the release of a compelling preview of what players can expect from the gameplay of *Age of Empires 4*. The excitement surrounding a brand new entry in this seminal real-time strategy (RTS) series remains incredibly palpable within the gaming community. However, with year-long gaps between its initial announcement and subsequent gameplay updates, it is probable that we will not receive substantial new information until at least next year. Despite the anticipation, a definitive release date for this historical strategy epic has yet to be revealed.
Dying Light 2: Parkour in the Apocalypse
Techland’s sequel to their acclaimed sandbox zombie game, *Dying Light 2*, has reportedly navigated a challenging development cycle. The original *Dying Light* garnered significant recognition for its unique blend of parkour mechanics and zombie survival horror, offering an unparalleled sense of freedom and danger. While the sequel aimed to elevate this sandbox experience on an entirely new engine, it has regrettably missed its original Spring 2020 release window. We hope that the extended development time will allow Techland to refine and perfect the experience, delivering a truly polished and ambitious follow-up.
Sons of the Forest: Terror Returns
For those who found *The Forest* sufficiently terrifying, an unexpected sequel, *Sons of the Forest*, promises even greater scares. First revealed at last year’s Game Awards, specific details about the game’s story and content remain scarce. However, one certainty is its unrelenting horror. Despite appearing quite advanced in the development process, an official release date has not yet been announced. This sequel looks set to deepen the lore and amplify the survival horror elements that made its predecessor a cult classic.
Path of Exile 2: The Epic Continues
*Path of Exile* is celebrated for its incredibly extensive character customization options and intricate skill trees. This tradition is set to continue and expand further with *Path of Exile 2*, which promises some of the most creative character selections to date. Much like how *Overwatch 2* builds upon its predecessor, *Path of Exile 2* will significantly add to the already deep foundations of the original. Beyond incorporating all of the original game’s expansions, players can anticipate improved skill systems, exciting new classes, and a fresh 7-act storyline. While the journey of *Path of Exile* will undoubtedly continue to evolve, the start of this new chapter awaits an official release date.
These upcoming PC games represent a fraction of the vast digital world awaiting players. Each title, whether a long-awaited sequel or an entirely new intellectual property, offers a unique window into the future of PC gaming.
