Monday was a big, big day at E3. First, Microsoft stepped up in a big way with an amazing press conference. I assumed there was no way Sony could top Phil Spencer and company. I was super wrong about that. Sure, the Sony conference lagged a bit in the middle, but viewed as a whole, I believe Sony had the superior showing. Though, I could be wrong…I usually am. At any rate, here is what Sony gave us.
The Last Guardian
Shawn Layden beebopped on stage, looking dapper. He paired a lavender oxford with a bespoke, charcoal suit – accented by a metallic gray pocket square, and…oh wait, this isn’t a fashion blog. Shawn Layden walked on stage and announced THE LAST GUARDIAN! Like, no big deal. The game still exists, Fumito Ueda is still directing it, and the demo ended with a release date…2016!!!!
Horizon: Zero Dawn
Long time Killzone studio, Guerrilla Games, debuted a new IP, Horizon: Zero Dawn. The game is beautiful and inventive. Set in the distant future, female protagonist, cyborg dinosaurs — yes please.
Hitman
Guess who’s back — back again?! Hitman’s back, tell a friend. That’s a fun time, Eminem goof. Remember that guy? Remember Agent 47? Well, he’s back, and he’s running through the snow.
Street Fighter V
Long time fighting fan favorite, Street Fighter, gets the exclusive treatment and finds it’s home on PS4.
Dreams
Media Molecule has a new game. It’s…something. Seems maybe too high concept to be a commercial success. But it looks pretty neat.
Destiny: The Taken King
Destiny gets another big time DLC/Expansion to keep the some 20 million active players happy. It’s been a few months since I last hopped in my star ship, The Taken King has piqued my interest.
Firewatch
Firewatch will make it’s console debut on PS4. Don’t be fooled by the gorgeous art and bright colors. Something eerie is happening here, and I can’t wait to find out what.
World of Final Fantasy
A cutesy re-imaging of all your favorite Final Fantasy characters. It’s set to release on PS4 and Vita in 2016.
Final Fantasy VII
Sony announced the Final Fantasy VII remake we’ve all been wanting and my face nearly melted. FFVII was one of the most important games of my childhood. While it’s not my favorite Final Fantasy game, it did open the door for me to experience JRPGs. I can’t wait for this remake and to relive that feeling of wonder.
Shenmue 3
When Sony opened their conference with The Last Guardian, I texted my buddies to let them know that they just won the press conferences. Geekly’s own Matthew George (who writes about Nintendo) texted back that if they announce Shenmue 3, then we can say Sony wins. It was a throw away, a joke telling me to cool my jets. HE WAS RIGHT! SHENMUE 3 IS REAL! After the cliffhanger at the end of Shenmue 2, this is glorious news. Though the fact it was a Kickstarter is a bit shady. However, since the conference, we have learned that Sony is helping to fund the project.
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate – Exclusive DLC
Sony is getting some exclusive DLC for AC: Syndicate. I wish I could be more excited about this. I know the millions of AC fans are hype. The Victorian England setting is intriguing to say the least.
No Man’s Sky
Hello Games ambitious project, No Man’s Sky, got another awe inspiring demo. However, it seems we always see the same thing. While I am thirsty for this game, I’d like a longer look at gameplay.
Call of Duty: Black Ops III
Sony and Activation unveiled their new partnership with displaying new footage. Black Ops III looks a lot like Black Ops II, which looks a lot like Black Ops, which looks a lot like Modern Warfare, which looks a lot like Modern Warfare 2… I mean, it obviously looks graphically better, but you’re smart. You get the joke.
Disney Infinity Star Wars
Limited edition exclusive Disney Infinity Star Wars bundle coming to Sony.
Star Wars Battlefront
Sony gave us a brief look at the upcoming Battlefront. The co-op looks better than I ever imagined. My body is ready.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
It started a bit rocky…technical difficulties, but once they Naughty Dog figured out how to use the controller, boy oh boy. This game looks so good.
Devolver Digital’s Indie Extravaganza!
Devolver Digital announced they are bringing four new indie games to the Playstation ecosystem. Ronin, Mother Russia Bleeds, Eitr, and Crossing Souls. I’m a big, big fan of indie games. I’m hoping these eventually make their way to Vita as well as they would be right at home.
Sony’s Miscellany…
Sony representatives also spoke briefly and I mean briefly, less than three minutes, about Project Morpheus. Doesn’t instill much confidence in me that it won’t be as big a flop as Playstation Move. Anyway, here it is
Sony also spoke a bit about Playstation Vue, which seems neat, but pointless.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WN00B7tJCe4