Sony State of Play
By Sherlene Hiu
PlayStation has expanded its game lineup significantly over the past decade and continues to plan more releases for fans. Known for its strong competition with Xbox and other brands in the console market under Sony, PlayStation also offers video programs like State of Play. These broadcasts, such as the one on May 30, are streamed live on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook, providing updates, announcements, and trailers for multiple new games in development.
Astro Bot
Astro Bot, part of the PlayStation VR franchise, continues its 3D and VR adventures on PS5 with a new game set for release on September 6. Developed by Team Asobi, this installment follows the beloved bot Astro as it embarks on a mission to rescue its crew in space. Originating from The Playroom VR and followed by Rescue Mission, this upcoming game promises to deliver immersive gameplay and expand on the franchise’s legacy.
Concord
An upcoming shooter game taking place in a sci-fi world, Concord follows a team-based role where players are able to form five-member teams, known as Northstar against another as a galactic hitman. The game lays out different worlds that players can choose to go to, allowing those to pick their team players, known as Freegunners, and compete against their rivals online in a 5v5 round. It is bound to be released on August 20, developed by Firewalk Studios.
Alien: Rogue Incursion
Alien: Rogue Incursion, available on Meta Quest, PlayStation VR2, and SteamVR, plunges players into the immersive horror universe of the Aliens film franchise. Developed in 3D using Unreal Engine 5, the game unfolds as a single-player experience set in a facility on the planet Purdan. Revealed through a State of Play trailer, the game introduces new storyline elements featuring the iconic Xenomorph aliens. Anticipated to launch during the holiday season for Playstation VR2, Alien: Rogue Incursion promises a thrilling exploration of terror and survival in deep space.
Ballad of Antara
Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Ballad of Antara is a fantasy action RPG featuring diverse playable characters. The game unfolds across two interconnected worlds: one mirroring reality and the other surreal. Players, known as Emissaries, navigate these realms, each character evolving uniquely throughout gameplay. Set for a 2025 release, the game supports multiplayer for up to three players and will be available as a free-to-play experience.
Where Winds Meet
Everstone Studio’s RPG is set in ancient China amidst political intrigue and cultural conflict. Players embody a martial artist navigating an expansive open world, engaging in dynamic combat. Inspired by the Wuxia genre of Chinese fiction, the game explores themes of honor and martial prowess. Scheduled for release in late 2024, it will be available exclusively on the PS5.
Sony’s State of Play has become a highly anticipated event among fans and gamers, consistently delivering updates on new and existing games. As game development tools and technology advance, studios are poised to unveil more creative and original stories for PlayStation enthusiasts and beyond. While the future of gaming may extend beyond consoles, Sony’s evolution has remained constant since its inception.
References:
Bailey, K., & Yin-Poole, W. (2024, May 30). Sony State of play announced for this week, expected to feature new Astro Bot and more. IGN. https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-state-of-play-may-2024