Must-Play Games Before GTA VI and Zelda Hit the Shelves

As the gaming world gears up for the highly anticipated releases of Grand Theft Auto VI and the remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, players find themselves in a moment of relative calm. This lull in massive releases offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in some exciting games that have recently been launched. In this article, we’ll highlight several standout titles that are well worth your time.

Game Highlights

While the excitement for future releases looms large, some fantastic games have already made their debut, and many can be enjoyed in short, satisfying bursts. Here’s a look at eight titles to dive into before the mainstream titans take over.

Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse

Available on: PS5, Xbox, Switch, Steam

This latest installment in the Castlevania franchise, developed by the team behind Dead Cells, impresses with its intricate level design and challenging gameplay. Players will encounter formidable bosses and hidden secrets throughout the game. Moreover, customizable difficulty settings mean you can adjust the challenge to your liking.

Dressmaker

Available on: Steam

From the creators of the wildly popular Broforce, Dressmaker invites players into the cozy world of fashion design. As a budding designer in a quaint village, you take on commissions, choose materials, and craft beautiful garments. The game balances creative freedom with quick play sessions, making it a delightful escape any time.

Heartworm

Available on: Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, PC

If you crave old-school survival horror vibes, Heartworm will fulfill that nostalgic itch. With limited inventory reminiscent of classic titles, it also introduces a unique mechanic where your character uses a camera as both a light source and weapon. This blend of nostalgia with updated gameplay keeps things fresh.

Orbitals

Available on: Switch 2

Co-op puzzle adventure fans will appreciate Orbitals, which channels a beloved 90s anime aesthetic. Although it doesn’t drastically reshape the genre, it excels with its engaging puzzles and charming graphics. Its “friend pass” feature makes it easy to share the fun with a friend without them needing their own copy.

Silver Pines

Available on: PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, PC

Silver Pines combines 2D exploration with a narrative-driven experience, drawing inspiration from classics like Metroid and the earlier Resident Evil titles. It also adds an intriguing resource management element where you must spend fictional money to save your game, enhancing its role-playing aspect.

Toem 2

Available on: PS5, Xbox, Switch

The sequel to the beloved photography game, Toem 2 retains the charm of its predecessor with engaging quests and captivating characters. Its beautiful black-and-white visuals make it a delightful companion while traveling or during casual play sessions.

Toy Story: Retro Roundup

Available on: PS5, Xbox, Switch, Steam

For gaming history enthusiasts, Toy Story: Retro Roundup provides a fascinating look at the evolution of the Toy Story franchise in video games. This collection blends archival content with playable titles, showcasing the innovative design of classic games that still deliver enjoyment today.

Well Dweller

Available on: PS5, Xbox, Switch, PC

In Well Dweller, you take on the role of an adorable bird navigating a whimsical yet bizarre world filled with creative challenges. This indie Metroidvania stands out for its imaginative environments and unique gameplay mechanics, making it a must-play for exploration fans.

Wrapping Up

Before the bustling gaming season kicks into high gear with GTA VI and Zelda, consider indulging in some of these engaging titles. Whether you prefer platforming adventures, design challenges, or captivating narratives, you’ll find a game that suits your taste and keeps you entertained.