1. Metal Gear Solid 5
Systems: PS3, PS4, XBox 360, XBox One
According to franchise creator Hideo Kojima, we’re getting the first portion of MGS5 in March. It’s supposed to serve as training for what we’re going to get when the real game eventually hits consoles (still no release date yet). With that said, the first portion looks like a PS4 version of the PSP’s MGS: Peacewalker. That’s a very good thing.
Release date: Ground Zeros - March 18, 2014; Phantom Pain - TBA
2. Infamous: Second Son
Systems: PS4
With all new powers, a brand new hero, and the power of the PS4, Sucker Punch seems poised to have an early contender for PS4 game of the year with Infamous: Second Son. Those who’ve gone hands-on with the game have come away with effusive comments about the fluid gameplay mechanics and graphics. Gamers won't have to wait much longer to see for themselves since it drops in the first quarter.
Release date: March 21, 2014
3. Watch Dogs
Systems: PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii U
After getting pushed back, it might seem that some of the momentum for Ubisoft’s newest franchise has been lost. Hopes are still high that Watch Dogs will live up to the hype built from the middle of last year, but with no release date listed, only Ubisoft knows how long it’s going to take for it to hit our living rooms.
Release date: Second quarter 2014
4. Tom Clancy's The Division
Systems: PS4, Xbox One, PC
One of the most anticipated titles of 2014 might be getting pushed back into 2015, but it still deserves a spot on the list. One look at the in-game engine and a couple gameplay videos will whet the appetite of any gamer who has a remote interest in online shooters...and even those who don’t.
Release date: TBA
5. Driveclub
Systems: PS4
Driveclub is set to be a driving game for people who love cars. With gorgeous visuals, a free version for those who are PS Plus subscribers, and no real competition, Driveclub will get plenty of chance to shine on Sony’s new system.
Release date: Early 2014
6. Titanfall
Systems: Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC
While the game only allows six-vs-six human players online (with the rest filled with AI companions), we’re still looking forward to one of the most exciting shooters of the year. Mechs, jetpacks, futuristic cities and shotguns, oh my. This will also be out in March, so you’ve still got plenty of time to get your wits together before Titanfall drops.
Release date: March 11, 2014
7. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Systems: PS4, Xbox One, PC
RPGs are usually defined by the numbers on the back of the box. So when Redspawn says The Witcher 3 has over 100-plus hours of gameplay and it’s twice the size of The Witcher 2 (a game that was already huge), it’s definitely a title gamers watch.
Release date: TBA, early as second quarter 2014
8. Dark Souls II
Systems: PS3, Xbox 360
Showing that “last generation” consoles still have some fight left, the follow-up to one of the most beloved games of 2011 is set for a March release. It promises to be even more intense and challenging than previous entries, so you can rest assured that the series moniker, “Prepare To Die,” is more than just sage-like advice.
Release date: March 11, 2014
9. Halo
System: Xbox One
Not much is known yet, but reports state that a new generation of Halo is definitely coming for the Xbox One this year. Other than that, what more do you need to get excited?
Release date: TBA
10. Thief
Systems: PS4, XBox One, PC
Thief marks a return to one of the most storied titles of PC-lore. Expect the game to remain true to its trademark stealth roots, with a few modern elements pitched in to make the series connect with old users and newcomers alike. There's a February release date floating around, but don’t be surprised if it gets pushed back.
Release date: February 25, 2014
11. The Elder Scrolls Online
Systems: PS4, XBox One, PC
Bethesda is set to take the series to new heights by transforming the traditionally single-player Elder Scrolls experience into an MMORPG (complete with monthly subscription). The jury’s out on how well this is going to work, but it’s definitely an ambitious undertaking, which those who love the series should keep their eye on.
Release date: April 4, 2014
12. Destiny
Systems: PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360
Gamers sure love their shooters, don’t they? Created by the team responsible for putting Halo in the world, Destiny is the first game created by Bungie Studios since they separated from Microsoft. Look for this one toward the latter part of the year, and if I were a betting man, I’d expect a big showing at this summer's E3 beforehand.
Release date: September 9, 2014
13. Diablo III
System: PS4
Millions will definitely sign up for this: A four player co-op lootfest on next generation consoles. Though it hit PCs in 2012 and some consoles last year, the PS4's lack of co-op games should put Diablo III on many people’s wish list when it hits the next-gen console this year.
Release date: TBA 2014
14. The Order: 1886
System: PS4
One of the most impressive games shown at last year’s E3, The Order is a brand new franchise by a first party Sony studio, Ready at Dawn. The same studio responsible for a number of excellent PSP games stands to keep their streak running given their pedigree on said platform.
Release date: Third quarter 2014
15. Dying Light
Systems: PS4, XBox One, PC
Dying Light seems to be one part survival horror, one part Mirror’s Edge-eqsue free runner. Yes, the game has zombies. Yes, it’s in first person. Yes, it’s scary as hell: a perfect mixture.
Release date: TBA