The landscape of PC gaming is continually evolving, with numerous highly anticipated titles slated for release that promise to captivate players. This article expands upon the video above, delving into a selection of the most exciting upcoming PC games and their anticipated features. A diverse array of genres is represented, ensuring there is something for every type of gamer looking to enhance their digital library.
January’s Initial Wave of New PC Game Releases
The year began with a strong lineup of PC game releases, immediately setting a high bar for what was to come. January, in particular, was packed with a variety of titles that satisfied different gaming palates.
Weird West: A Dark Fantasy RPG
On January 11, players were introduced to Weird West, an innovative RPG from the co-creators of acclaimed series like Prey and Dishonored. This title is noted for its dark fantasy take on the Wild West, combining immersive simulation elements with strategic isometric gameplay. The game’s commitment to story creates a fantastic sandbox, filled with mystery and secrets for players to uncover.
Monster Hunter: Rise on PC
Capcom’s popular Monster Hunter: Rise made its way to PC on January 12, following its timed exclusivity on the Nintendo Switch. This version delivers a smooth 60 frames per second experience with ultra-high textures, making excellent use of the RE engine. It has been described as the most accessible Monster Hunter game to date, effectively preparing players for the future release of its substantial Sunbreak expansion.
God of War: A PlayStation to PC Port
A significant event for PC gamers was the arrival of God of War on January 14. This award-winning action-adventure title, previously a PlayStation exclusive, was widely celebrated for its narrative depth and engaging combat. PC players are now able to experience Kratos and Atreus’s journey through Norse mythology with crisp high-definition visuals and notably improved performance, marking a smart strategic move for wider accessibility.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Extraction
January 20 saw the release of Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Extraction, representing a considerable departure for the series. This installment shifts into a full science fiction setting, where players form a three-person squad to combat an alien threat. The gameplay often involves teaming up against hordes of dangerous creatures, reminiscent of titles like Valve’s Left 4 Dead. Operators from Rainbow Six Siege bring their signature weapons, allowing for intense cooperative action.
February’s Highly Anticipated PC Titles
February continued the momentum with several major releases, including sequels and a highly awaited new IP.
Dying Light 2: Stay Human
Techland’s long-standing franchise received its sequel, Dying Light 2 Stay Human, on February 4. This game takes the series in new directions, placing increased emphasis on its RPG elements. While the series’ signature parkour mechanics are still prominent, the developers have seemingly refined the art of traversing urban environments. The game also promises a memorable story, featuring tough decisions that significantly impact the larger narrative.
Saints Row: A Reboot
A soft reboot of the Saints Row series arrived on February 25, offering an even edgier take on the open-world crime genre. Players are given extensive character customization options, allowing for unique and often humorous designs. The inclusion of drop-in, drop-out co-op enables friends to explore this new world together or engage in solo rampages. Gangs remain a central theme, providing ample opportunities for chaotic open-world action.
Elden Ring: From Software’s Epic
Also released on February 25 was Elden Ring, From Software’s most anticipated action RPG. A 15-minute gameplay preview generated immense excitement, showcasing promising features. The studio’s art direction and world-building capabilities are clearly on full display, borrowing mechanics from previous From Software titles such as Sekiro and Dark Souls. The combination of these elements has been widely praised, leading to a truly expansive and challenging experience.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodhunt
The enduring Vampire: The Masquerade universe expanded with Bloodhunt in February. This iteration is a Battle Royale game, sharing core gameplay mechanics with others in the genre. Its distinctiveness comes from the incorporation of various vampire abilities, setting it apart from typical Battle Royale experiences. It was initially made available for free on Steam’s early access, allowing players to try it out before its full launch.
Major PC Game Launches Throughout the Rest of the Year
Beyond the early months, numerous other upcoming PC games were slated for release, spanning various genres and development stages.
Total War: Warhammer III
Fans of the strategy genre eagerly awaited Total War: Warhammer III, which was released early in the year. This third major installment significantly improves the real-time strategy experience, immersing players in the perilous Realm of Chaos. Here, battles against hordes of extradimensional enemies are commonplace, providing a deep and engaging tactical challenge for enthusiasts of the series.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End on PC
Another prominent PlayStation exclusive to make its way to PC early in the year was Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End. Nathan Drake’s final adventure in the main series offers a dramatic finale, which is enhanced on high-end PC builds. This port highlights a growing trend of former console exclusives becoming accessible to a wider PC audience.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl
The irradiated wasteland of Chernobyl once again beckons with S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl, expected on April 28. Developed by Ukraine-based GSC Game World, this sequel is powered by Unreal Engine 5, promising an exceptional level of detail during traversal through the dangerous exclusion zone. While gameplay footage has been limited, high expectations surround its immersive survival horror elements.
The Day Before: An MMO Survival Experience
Survival games have seen a surge in popularity, and The Day Before, launched on June 21, offered an indie take on post-apocalyptic shooters. It features an MMO-like environment where players scavenge resources and cooperate in a zombie-infested world. The game aims to capture the look and feel of titles like The Division or The Last of Us, focusing on player interaction and resource management.
Starfield: Bethesda’s Sci-Fi RPG
Bethesda’s ambitious science fiction RPG, Starfield, was released on November 11. Dubbed “Skyrim in space” by Todd Howard, this title promised vast possibilities and innovative gameplay mechanics. Although gameplay footage was scarce before release, a cinematic trailer provided a glimpse into its expansive universe, indicating a major new IP for the developer.
Exploring Other Upcoming Games for PC
Beyond the major releases, numerous other titles were either in early access or scheduled for later in the year and beyond, contributing to the rich tapestry of upcoming PC games.
Darkest Dungeon II and Roguelike Road Trips
The sequel to the Lovecraftian dungeon crawler, Darkest Dungeon II, offers more maddening, roguelike road trips. Initially available in early access on the Epic Games Store, it features significant improvements over its predecessor. New mechanics and enhanced visual flair contribute to a more grotesque and unpredictable experience, appealing to fans of challenging turn-based combat.
Company of Heroes 3 and Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
Strategy enthusiasts had Company of Heroes 3 to look forward to, an entry in the iconic war game series. It promises heart-pounding combat, showcasing improved graphics and more seamless tactical gameplay. Additionally, Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, a sequel nearly a decade in the making, remains in early access on Steam. Despite polarized reviews during its development, it retains the magic of medieval warfare and strategic combat, with a full release anticipated.
Need for Speed 2022 and Sons of the Forest
A new installment in the mainstream racing franchise, tentatively titled Need for Speed 2022, was also confirmed. While details were scarce, it aimed to meet high expectations in a competitive racing game market. On the other hand, Sons of the Forest, a sequel to the survival horror game, returns players to an abandoned wilderness teeming with cannibals. Developers aimed for an improved exploration experience within a larger world, emphasizing resourcefulness and survival tactics.
Gotham Knights and Hogwarts Legacy
Warner Brothers’ Gotham Knights shifted focus from Batman to four of his protégés: Robin, Nightwing, Batgirl, and Red Hood. Players are tasked with uncovering a vast Gotham conspiracy involving the Court of Owls. The gameplay builds upon previous Arkham titles but with an increased emphasis on RPG mechanics. Meanwhile, Hogwarts Legacy opened the doors to a long-requested Harry Potter RPG. This game allows players to create their own character and explore Hogwarts years before the events of the books, though specific details remain limited.
Lost Ark and Little Devil Inside
The Korean MMO Lost Ark, announced in 2014, neared its Western release with assistance from Amazon Games. It is designed for players seeking a fast and seamless RPG experience, offering a world brimming with detail and numerous gameplay styles across its classes. For indie game fans, Little Devil Inside presents an action-adventure experience reminiscent of a toned-down Dark Souls. Set in a mystifying Victorian era, players control a brave wanderer through treacherous landscapes and encounter creatures of yore.
Against the Storm and Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League
Against the Storm offers a unique indie city builder with roguelike mechanics. Players manage and expand an empire inhabited by various creatures, constructing cities in a dynamic and unpredictable world. It was released as a timed Epic Games exclusive. Rocksteady’s next project, Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League, shifts focus from Batman to Harley Quinn, King Shark, Deadshot, and Captain Boomerang. While gameplay details were kept under wraps, cinematic trailers hinted at a fresh, chaotic approach to the superhero genre.
The Invincible: Sci-Fi Horror
Rounding out the list is The Invincible, a science fiction horror game from indie studio Starward Industries. Its visuals evoke a retro-futuristic aesthetic, reminiscent of titles like BioShock. The game prioritizes scaring players, drawing comparisons to survival horror games such as Amnesia and Layers of Fear. Such a focus makes it an attractive option for those who appreciate atmospheric and psychological frights.
Level Up Your Knowledge: Q&A on 2022’s Upcoming PC Hits
What is the main topic of this article?
This article discusses a selection of the top 25 highly anticipated PC games that were released or scheduled to be released in 2022. It covers various genres and details their features.
What kind of games can I expect to find in this list?
You’ll find a wide range of genres, including action RPGs like Elden Ring, action-adventure games like God of War, survival horror like Dying Light 2, and strategy games such as Total War: Warhammer III.
Does this list include games that were originally only on consoles?
Yes, the article highlights significant console exclusives like God of War and Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End that made their way to PC in 2022, expanding their accessibility.
Can you name a few notable games released early in 2022?
In January, popular titles like God of War and Monster Hunter: Rise made their PC debut. February brought anticipated games such as Dying Light 2: Stay Human and Elden Ring.
