January usually sees a scarcity of new game releases, providing a breather before the year’s gaming frenzy. This time, however, there’s a manageable number of exciting releases. Yakuza enthusiasts can delve into the next chapter of the revamped Like a Dragon series. A standout from the previous PlayStation era is set to shine with a PS5 upgrade, and fighting game fans can unleash their skills with the return of Tekken. Amidst these heavyweights, smaller indie and early-access titles are making their mark on PC and consoles. VR enthusiasts can explore Bulletstorm in virtual reality, while Palworld offers a unique, weaponized twist on pocket monsters.
Bulletstorm VR (PC, PS5, Quest) — January 18
Bulletstorm’s creative combat and boldly irreverent language are set to leap into virtual reality, posing an intriguing question for fans. As players step back into the boots of space-mercenary Grayson Hunt, the unrestrained violence from the 2011 FPS has been preserved for this VR adaptation. An exciting bonus awaits, including the legendary Trishka Novak as an exclusive playable character. Soon, players will be able to wield her energy blades, engaging in virtual mayhem as they slice and dice through hordes of mutants in this immersive Bulletstorm experience.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox Series X|S) — January 18
While the wait for the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time remake continues, a captivating alternative arrives this month. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown combines 2D action adventure with anime influences and stylish combos, crafting a high-energy metroidvania set in an era of gods and heroes. Retaining core elements from classic Prince of Persia games—platforming, puzzle-solving, and time-based powers—the game boasts a striking visual style, potentially becoming an early standout in 2024. The intriguing aspect lies in Ubisoft’s venture into the Metroidvania genre, typically less explored by AAA developers, making The Lost Crown a fascinating experiment for the renowned studio.
The Last of Us Part II Remastered (PS5) — January 19
The start of the year brings an exciting prospect for PS5 users with the remastered edition of The Last of Us Part II. Beyond the enhanced 4K fidelity, faster loading times, and comprehensive DualSense integration, a noteworthy addition awaits. The introduction of a roguelike survival mode, named No Return, enriches the gaming experience. Players can now confront waves of Clickers, gradually upgrading their weapons for a more powerful arsenal. The Last of Us Part II Remastered, launching on January 19, promises not only the brilliance of an award-winning game but also the thrill of this new and engaging survival challenge.
Graven (PC) — January 23
While the Hexen franchise may be dormant, the arrival of Graven suggests a captivating spiritual successor to the beloved spell-slinging action game. Set to launch out of early access on Steam in January, Graven invites players into an open-ended adventure across three expansive regions, offering magical firepower as the solution to every violent encounter. With added RPG elements, puzzles to unravel, and a variety of spells to collect for your arcane arsenal, Graven promises a delightful experience for those seeking retro-inspired fun. The game’s blend of nostalgic elements and fresh gameplay could make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts of classic spellcasting action.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One) — January 26
Yakuza and Like a Dragon enthusiast had a feast in 2023 with Like a Dragon: Ishin and Like a Dragon: Gaiden. Now, in the current year, the series takes a trip to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Ichiban Kasuga returns, partnering with a legendary dragon for an adventure that could easily occupy all your free time in January. From putting unruly gangs in their place to navigating the temptations of the gig economy, there’s even a chance to embrace the full Animal Crossing experience when this game arrives later this month. The promise of diverse activities and engaging narratives awaits Yakuza fans in this tropical escapade.
Tekken 8 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S) — January 26
Prepare for the next major fighting game spectacle! While 2023 featured Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1, 2024 brings Tekken 8 into the ring. With unparalleled visuals in the franchise and an expansive launch-day roster, this installment introduces the dynamic Heat Gauge system, rewarding relentless aggression. Maintaining its core theme of fathers and sons, Tekken 8 spices things up with Leopard-themed Lucha libre wrestlers, a French James Bond twist, and fierce high school ruffians. The game promises a one-two punch of compelling storytelling and entertaining grudge matches, offering fans a healthy blend of serious narrative and absurd confrontations to anticipate.
Palworld (PC) — January TBC (PC via Steam early access)
Palworld, developed by Pocketpair, is a game that blends the concept of Pokemon with firearms. Although the developer has maintained a low profile since the initial reveal, the game is set to be released in early access on Steam in January. Described as a monster-catching, survival, and crafting game, Palworld appears to offer an ambitious take on these genres. In the game, players collect exotic creatures while also ensuring peace with an array of powerful firearms. The combination of creature collection, survival elements, and the addition of weaponry suggests an intriguing and unique gameplay experience for those exploring the world of Palworld.
January 2024 video game release schedule
- Laika: Aged Through Blood (Switch) — January 11
- Momodora: Moonlit FarewellWar Hospital (PC) — January 11
- Top Racer Collection (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch) — January 11
- Crystal Story: Dawn of Dusk (PC) — January 12
- Gungrave G.O.R.E Ultimate Enhanced Edition (Switch) — January 12
- DreadOut 2 (Switch) — January 18
- Bulletstorm VR (PC, PS5, Quest) — January 18
- Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox Series X|S) — January 18
- Another Code: Recollection (Switch) — January 19
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered (PS5) — January 19
- Graven (PC) — January 23
- Howl (PS5, Xbox Series X) — January 23
- Neptunia: Sisters vs. Sisters (Switch) — January 23
- Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy (PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch) — January 25
- Macross: Shooting Insight (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch) — January 25
- Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island (Switch) — January 25
- Touhou Luna Nights (PS5, PS4) — January 25
- Under Night In-Birth II [Sys: Celes] (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch)– January 25
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One) — January 26
- Tekken 8 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S) — January 26
- The Lost Legends of Redwall: The Scout Anthology (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One) — January 30
- Palworld (PC) — January TBC (PC via Steam early access)
Exciting releases are on the horizon, from VR adaptations and remastered editions to fresh takes on classic genres. Fans can anticipate immersive experiences with spell-slinging action, captivating adventures in sunny locales, and the return of iconic fighting franchises. The diverse lineup promises a thrilling start to the gaming year. For more such posts please visit our Technology section.
