Compared to most years, August has been a bit slower for game releases – an understandable scarcity given the ongoing pandemic. However, as we approach the last quarter in 2021, things begin to pick up, and we’re seeing that now. In a mix of indie darlings and triple-A titles, mid-to-late August sees narrative gems and long-awaited sports titles. If you’re looking for a little something new to dive into next week, August 16 – 22, we’ve got some options.
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Humankind
Date: August 17
Platforms: PC
If you’re itching for another Civilization-esque experience, then Sega and Amplitude Studios will deliver this Wednesday with Humankind. In its new 4x game, you’ll act as the guiding, omnipotent force to direct the expansion of civilizations across six different eras. While it may seem quite familiar, it does bear some differences from the classic Sid Meier series. In Humankind, everything is about your fame score – you can’t rely on Civilization’s more forgiving, multiple victory conditions.
12 Minutes
Date: August 19
Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Annapurna Interactive’s 12 Minutes drops you into the critical few moments before a life-changing series of events unfold in a quaint little apartment owned by a married couple. Using point-and-click mechanics, you’ll control the husband, navigating a story narrated through time loops and contained to their tiny suite. The name may be a little misleading, it’s based on 12 minutes in-game, but the story should take you hours of replaying and trying to uncover enough of the mystery to change the couple’s future.
The Vale: Shadow of the Crown
Date: August 19
Platforms: PC
Developer Falling Squirrel brings its medieval audio adventure to Steam in just a few days. In The Vale, you’ll hear your way through this new journey as a blind warrior, traveling to your new position as warden of a small castle. The path there isn’t pleasant, as The Vale wraps you up in the sounds of war. Falling Squirrel promises a fully blind accessible experience with 3D audio, RPG elements, and over five hours of gameplay.
Madden NFL 22
Date: August 20
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC
EA Sports’ yearly football release comes barreling in at the end of this week. All-stars such as Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady and Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes will steal the spotlight as a duo on the cover this year – an unusual pick for EA who typically only frames one athlete. The series will introduce its new “Dynamic Gameday” features with the 22 installment, a new element that will hopefully shake up the older formula we’ve experienced for years now.
Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut
Date: August 20
Platforms: PS4, PS5
Ghost of Tsushima first launched around this time last year, but Sony and Sucker Punch are bringing the samurai action-adventure game back as you once again fight to protect Tsushima Island. This new cut includes a few upgrades, which get better if you pick up a copy on PS5. Content-wise, it’ll bring the new Iki Island expansion, an online co-op mode, and pack of DLC.