What Video Game Should You Be Excited for in February?

This week, readers express their thoughts on upcoming video game releases, potential delays in highly anticipated titles like GTA 6, and the marketing strategies of major console brands. A standout suggestion for the Horizon Zero Dawn sequel involves innovative gameplay mechanics, reflecting a desire for fresh experiences in familiar franchises. The discussions highlight a mix of excitement and concern for the future of gaming, particularly regarding sales trends and backlog challenges.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the gaming landscape evolves, readers are voicing their opinions on various upcoming titles and trends affecting the industry. With February set to be a busy month for game releases, speculation is rife about which games will perform well in terms of sales and critical acclaim. Notably, discussions around the marketing effectiveness of consoles and the potential delay of major titles like GTA 6 signal a cautious yet hopeful outlook among gamers.

Key takeaways

Upcoming releases in February include several notable titles, with High On Life 2 generating significant anticipation.
Concerns are mounting regarding the potential delay of GTA 6, as communication from Rockstar remains minimal.
Nintendo’s marketing strategies for the Switch 2 are being praised, contrasting sharply with the lack of advertising from competitors.

Timeline: how we got here

In recent months, discussions regarding major game releases have intensified:

January 2023: Hints about upcoming titles begin to surface as gamers look forward to new releases.
February 2023: A plethora of games is scheduled for release, including Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined and Resident Evil Requiem.
October 2023: Ongoing speculation about GTA 6's release date increases amid silence from Rockstar.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Readers are debating the likelihood of delays for highly anticipated games, particularly GTA 6, as Rockstar remains tight-lipped about the game's development progress.

What was already established

The excitement for High On Life 2 continues to build, with many fans expressing their preference for its quirky humour over more traditional franchises like Resident Evil, which some believe may not sell as well.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

With the gaming market showing signs of slowing console sales, particularly in the US, UK consumers may be impacted by rising prices and reduced availability of new titles. This could lead to fewer purchases and a more cautious approach to spending on luxury items.

Businesses and jobs

Game developers and marketing teams are facing challenges in reaching audiences effectively. Companies may need to rethink their strategies to ensure their products stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Policy and regulation

As the gaming industry evolves, it may face increased scrutiny from regulators regarding advertising practices and consumer protections, particularly in light of growing concerns about backlog issues among gamers.

Numbers that matter

February 2023 sees the release of over six major titles, marking a busy period for the gaming industry.
Console sales reportedly dropped by 20% in the US, indicating potential market saturation.
High On Life 2 is poised to compete against established franchises, with early indicators suggesting strong pre-sale interest.

Definitions and jargon buster

Metacritic: A website that aggregates reviews of movies, TV shows, music albums, and video games to provide a score based on critic and user ratings.
GTA: Grand Theft Auto, a popular video game series known for its open-world gameplay and controversial themes.
Backlog: A collection of video games that a player owns but has not yet completed.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Watch for announcements regarding potential delays or updates on major game titles, particularly from Rockstar and Nintendo.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor sales trends and marketing strategies as companies adapt to changing consumer behaviours and preferences.

Signals to watch

Sales figures for February releases to gauge consumer interest and market performance.
Official announcements or teasers from developers about upcoming games and sequels.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated on game release schedules to plan purchases effectively.
Engage with community discussions to get diverse opinions on upcoming games.

Don’t

Don’t rush to purchase games without researching reviews and player feedback.
Don’t ignore the potential for delays in highly anticipated titles.

Checklist

Review your backlog and prioritise games you want to complete.
Keep an eye on marketing campaigns for new releases.
Engage with gaming communities to share insights and experiences.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the gaming industry faces potential delays and shifting consumer preferences, uncertainty looms over sales performance and market stability. The impact of economic factors on luxury purchases could further complicate predictions for upcoming titles. Additionally, the lack of clear communication from developers like Rockstar raises concerns about transparency and gamer expectations.

Bottom line

As February approaches, the gaming community is eager to see how upcoming releases will perform amidst a backdrop of potential delays and shifting market dynamics. Staying informed about trends and participating in discussions will be crucial for gamers navigating this evolving landscape.

FAQs

Will there be a delay for GTA 6?

While there are concerns about a potential delay for GTA 6, official announcements from Rockstar are still pending, making it difficult to confirm.

What are the most anticipated games for February 2023?

Some of the most anticipated games include High On Life 2, Resident Evil Requiem, and Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined.

How can I manage my gaming backlog?

To manage your gaming backlog, consider prioritising titles you are most excited about and setting realistic goals for completion.