Whether you’re an Xbox gamer, a PS4-lover or a PC master-racer, it’s safe to say that you’ve already played quite a few games so far this year. In fact, we imagine you’re likely still playing through The Division, with Far Cry Primal in your backlog (both of which we have on our list of the best PS4 games of 2016 so far). Or, maybe you’ve just been binging on Stardew Valley for the first few months of the year — we don’t blame you. But with the first quarter of the gaming year coming to a close, it’s time to take a look at the new video games releasing in April 2016.
Here are the top 5 best new video games to play that are coming in April 2016 (you can also see what new video games are coming in May)
1. Quantum Break
Platforms: Xbox One, PC
Release Date: April 5
Quantum Break is certainly an interesting concept — a video game with a TV series to go along with it —and although we’ve seen this model fail before (looking at you, Defiance), we absolutely loved what we’ve played so far (we’re into Act 3). Aside from the overuse of film grain, it’s a game that IMMEDIATELY brings the player in. The story is very interesting so far, and although it clearly takes elements from Max Payne and other time-distorting games, it’s, so far, a fun experience. We’ll be completing the story soon, and our official Quantum Break review will be up on April 1 at 3PM EST. For now, know that it’s a game worth getting.
Pre-order Quantum Break here.
2. Dark Souls III
Platforms: Xbox One, PS4, PC
Release Date: April 12
The latest addition to the Dark Souls franchise is set to hit stores on April 12 with Dark Souls 3, and it unabashedly follows the gameplay of Dark Souls II closely. However, magic is being featured in the game this time around (like in Demon’s Souls), and it’s apparently a game that spawned because of “Bloodborne’s limitations.” The game will feature fewer maps than its predecessor, but they’ll be interconnected to encourage exploration. The game is already out in Japan, and it’s set to release worldwide on April 12. I’ll also note that, according to Eurogamer, the PS4 version of the game is way better.
Buy Dark Souls III Day 1 Edition here.
3. Ratchet & Clank
Platforms: PS4
Release Date: April 12
It’s been far too long since we’ve received a great Ratchet & Clank game, and the franchise is set to make its PS4 debut on April 12. And, the gameplay we’ve seen so far looks absolutely stunning. It’s a re-imagining of the first game in Insomniac’s series, and it has a film coming out with it. The game is said to contain many of the gameplay elements from the different games spanning the entire series, so it’s not simply just an HD version of the original Ratchet & Clank (although, admittedly, we would’ve been down for that, too). The game will also feature brand new weapons, including what’s called the Pixelizer, which turns enemies into 8-bit renditions of themselves. Ratchet & Clank is undoubtedly going to be considered one of the best new video games of the year.
Pre-order Ratchet & Clank PS4 here.
4. Bravely Second: End Layer (3DS)
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
Release Date: April 15
Nintendo’s Bravely Default was an absolutely fantastic 3DS game, and now its sequel, Bravely Second: End Layer is making its way to North America on April 15. The game will take place two and a half years after the first game, with Tiz Arrior awakening from a coma and being rescued by Magnolia Arch. Then, Yew Genelogia and Edea Lee join your party, as you team up to search for Agnes Oblige, the new leader who has been abducted. The first game in the franchise was an RPG worth playing, and it is one of the best 3DS games available. We’re hoping (and assuming) that the sequel falls right in line.
Buy Bravely Second: End Layer here.
5. Star Fox Zero
Platforms: Wii U
Release Date: April 22
We’re not quite sure how Star Fox Zero is going to turn out, but it is definitely necessary to note that its release is set for April. We’ve honestly been unimpressed with the gameplay footage we’ve seen so far, but that’s solely due to the graphics and the fact that the gameplay looks so similar to StarFox 64. Hopefully, we’re completely wrong, and Star Fox Zero turns out to be another surprise quality game for the Wii U. I’ll also note that you should probably skip Star Fox Guard, because it looks like a halfhearted attempt to rescue a failed experiment with the gamepad. Again, I could be wrong, but I’m likely not. But if you’re a Wii U owner, and you’re looking for something new to play, it’s probably worth it to at least experience Star Fox Zero.
Buy Star Fox Zero here.