After a few years of absence, 2023 marks the exciting return of a well-known outlet to PAX West, a fan-favorite expo that draws thousands of enthusiastic gamers to Seattle, Washington, every Labor Day Weekend. Attendees flock to the event to experience the captivating booths, snag exclusive merchandise, connect with like-minded friends, and, most importantly, get their hands on some of the hottest upcoming games.
At PAX West, attendees had the chance to explore an array of intriguing titles. From action-packed adventures to tactical RPGs, here are some of the standout games that left a lasting impression:
AntonBlast
Platforms: Switch, PC
Anton, on a quest for revenge after Satan steals his precious booze, stars in this game inspired by Wario Land, Metroid, Sonic the Hedgehog and Crash Bandicoot. Armed with a massive hammer, players embark on chaotic platforming adventures, leaving destruction in their wake. AntonBlast promises fast-paced action and is set to release on Switch and PC in the near future.
Big Boy Boxing
Platforms: PC, Consoles
Reminiscent of Punch-Out!!, this hand-drawn boss-rush boxing game by indie studio Soupmasters impressed with expressive animations and memorable opponents. Players must master pattern recognition to overcome 24 unique boss battles. Big Boy Boxing offers a challenging experience and is scheduled for release next year.
Cobalt Core
Platforms: PC, Consoles
Cobalt Core, a turn-based roguelike deck-builder, introduces cute pixel-art anthropomorphized animals. Players must make tactical decisions as they navigate a star system, using cards to attack, move, and defend against enemy spacecraft. Party composition is crucial, and battles are exhilarating. Cobalt Core's release date remains unconfirmed but has garnered excitement.
Dungeons of Hinterberg
Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, PC
Announced during Xbox Showcase at Summer Game Fest, Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a captivating gameplay loop that involves exploring the overworld, conquering dungeons, and building relationships with townsfolk. With dynamic combat and diverse biomes, it's a title to watch for, set to release in 2024.
Foamstars
Platforms: PS5, PS4
Foamstars, a 4v4 hero-based shooter from Square Enix, combines elements of Splatoon and Overwatch. Players engage in colorful, foam-filled battles with unique hero loadouts, shoulder-button abilities, and ultimates. Despite the crowded shooter genre, Foamstars offers a fun and promising experience.
For The King II
Platform: PC
For The King II, a digital tabletop sequel, offers five distinct campaigns for solo or multiplayer adventures. Players assume the roles of villagers with diverse abilities, navigating hex-based maps and engaging in strategic turn-based combat. With its immersive world, it captures the essence of tabletop RPGs.
Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, PC
The return of Kazuma Kiryu in Like a Dragon Gaiden offers an action-packed experience with street fights, arena battles, and even live-action FMV dates. It's a warm welcome back to the Yakuza series' beloved protagonist, arriving on November 9.
Lords of the Fallen
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Lords of the Fallen returns to the Soulslike genre with a two-world mechanic and signature combat. With Vestiges as checkpoints and health recovery points, it promises a challenging and immersive experience, slated for release on October 13.
Mina the Hollower
Platform: PC
Developed by the creators of Shovel Knight, Mina the Hollower draws inspiration from The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening and Bloodborne. It offers deep gameplay and unique systems, making it one of the standout titles at PAX West 2023.
Persona 3 Reload
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, PC
Persona 3 Reload modernizes a beloved RPG with new voice lines, quality-of-life improvements, and an expanded soundtrack. This reimagined classic is eagerly anticipated, set to release in 2024.
Persona 5 Tactica
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Persona 5 Tactica brings the Phantom Thieves into the realm of turn-based strategy with engaging tactics mechanics. Players can look forward to another thrilling adventure with the iconic characters when it releases on November 17.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown takes players back to the series' 2D roots with exciting platforming and combat mechanics. The nostalgic 2D platformer is set to release on January 18.
qomp2
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Switch, PC
Described as an "artful reimagining of Pong", qomp2 offers a unique twist on classic gameplay. Players control the ball to navigate obstacles, and the game's mechanics offer a fresh and engaging experience.
Rift of the NecroDancer
Platforms: Switch, PC
Rift of the NecroDancer introduces rhythm-based gameplay where players must attack monsters in sync with the music. It adds complexity to the rhythm genre and pays homage to classics like Guitar Hero and Rhythm Heaven.
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC, NES
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland combines nostalgia with modern platforming. Players can switch between 8-bit and modern visuals as they guide the beloved characters through imaginative adventures.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Platform: Switch
Super Mario Bros. Wonder offers a creative evolution of 2D Mario gameplay, featuring co-op play and innovative level design. It's set to release on October 20, promising a fresh take on the classic series.
Tekken 8
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Tekken 8, developed with Unreal Engine 5, boasts stunning visuals and a focus on aggressive gameplay. It's a standout entry in the fighting game genre, arriving on January 26.
These exciting games showcased at PAX West 2023 offer diverse experiences for gamers of all preferences and interests. Keep an eye out for their release dates and prepare for an array of thrilling adventures in the gaming world.
Successfully copied... Thank you for sharing our content!:
PAX West returns to Seattle August 30 - September 2, 2024. See you next time!
Upon the release of the fantasy RPG Baldur's Gate 3 from early access, some players and journalists expressed concerns about the overly amorous behavior of the player's companions. However, it has been revealed that this issue was a result of a bug.
During an interview at the PAX West festival with TheGamer, Swen Vincke, the CEO of Larian Studios, confirmed that the developers had not originally intended for the companions to exhibit such amorous behavior.
Vincke explained that the problem arose due to an error in setting the approval thresholds, particularly for the character Gale. He noted that the companions' behavior was not supposed to be so amorous from the outset.
The CEO mentioned that the studio has already addressed the issue with some of the companions, but adjustments are still being made for others. However, specific details regarding which characters are awaiting corrections were not provided.
Interestingly, not all players were deterred by the amorousness of the companions. Some gamers actually appreciated their assertive behavior. Nevertheless, Larian Studios decided to take steps to rectify the situation.
Vincke explained, "There were quite a few people who liked it. But it was happening too quickly. The system was supposed to simulate how real relationships work".
Baldur's Gate 3 officially exited early access on August 3 for PC (available on Steam and GOG). It is set to release on macOS and PS5 on September 6, with Xbox Series X and S versions expected by the end of November.
Square Enix is actively developing a PC version of the popular role-playing action game, Final Fantasy XVI. This port was officially revealed during the PAX West festival, although a specific release date remains undisclosed at this time.
In addition to the PC adaptation of Final Fantasy XVI, the development team has also unveiled plans for two paid expansion packs for the game. While detailed information about these paid expansions is currently scarce, the developers intend to provide a more comprehensive overview before the end of 2023.
Furthermore, at the PAX West festival, the creators of Final Fantasy XVI announced the rollout of a complimentary update. This update introduces weapon transmogrification, allowing players to alter the appearance of their weapons, and it also introduces alternative outfits for the primary characters in the Final Fantasy XVI universe.
World of Darkness has unveiled an array of exciting new projects centered around the Vampire: The Masquerade franchise at PAX West. The company has announced strategic partnerships with Techland, Penny Arcade and Well Played Games for official Vampire: The Masquerade ventures. Additionally, they've teased upcoming titles from Fast Travel Games and Xplored, both of which are currently featured at the PAX West booth for attendees to explore. Here's a comprehensive summary of the revelations made by the company over the weekend:
- Collaboration with Techland for Vampire: The Masquerade x Dying Light 2 DLC: This intriguing partnership will introduce Vampire: The Masquerade clans as character skins in the popular post-apocalyptic open-world action RPG, Dying Light 2. For more details on this DLC, stay tuned to the Dying Light fan hub.
- The Return of "Seattle by Night" with Penny Arcade: The beloved Vampire: The Masquerade actual-play streaming series, "Seattle by Night", is making a comeback under the direction of Penny Arcade. The new season will premiere its first episode live on the PAX West main stage on Saturday, with additional episodes scheduled for release in the coming months. Keep an eye on the World of Darkness social media accounts (Twitter and Facebook) for forthcoming updates.
- Vampire: The Masquerade– Clans of London Mobile Game by Well Played Games: In this mobile game, players take charge of coteries of vampires vying for dominance throughout London. To establish their undead power centers, players employ a combination of violence and cunning. To learn more about "Clans of London", visit the official announcement.
- Vampire: The Masquerade – Justice VR Title by Fast Travel Games: "Justice" immerses players in a quest to uncover the truth behind their sire's murder and recover a stolen relic within the shadowy depths of Venice, Italy. As Justice, a vampire from the Banu Haqim clan, players will navigate a gripping main storyline, tackle various side missions, and engage in unique dialogue choices to hunt down the culprits. At PAX West, fans can experience the chilling world of the Kindred in VR for the very first time.
- Vampire: The Masquerade – Milan Uprising Board Game by Xplored: Surpassing its crowdfunding goal in record time, "Milan Uprising" is now playable at PAX West. This board game utilizes the Teburu system to seamlessly blend physical and digital components, offering players a collaborative, narrative-driven experience that enables them to shape the destiny of Milan.
These exciting projects promise to breathe new life into the Vampire: The Masquerade universe, offering fans a diverse range of experiences to look forward to.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a 2D action-platformer that offers a contemporary twist on the classic series' mechanics. It's designed as a metroidvania, promising a trove of hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, renowned for titles like Rayman, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown transports players to Mount Qaf, a location inspired by Persian mythology and meticulously handcrafted to feature a variety of distinct locales, each with its own unique identity, perils, and marvels.
As Sargon, your mission is to rescue Prince Ghassan, and on this journey, you'll discover that time itself can be a formidable adversary. The Metroidvania-style design encourages players to revisit previously explored areas, where a multitude of secrets lies in wait.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is set to launch on January 18, 2024, for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with Pax West being an excellent opportunity to get an exclusive glimpse of its Nintendo Switch version.
Square Enix has recently disclosed the highly anticipated lineup and itinerary for PAX West 2023, scheduled to take place from September 1 to 4 at the esteemed Seattle Convention Center.
Playable Game Showcase
FOAMSTARS
Available on: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
Release Date: To Be Confirmed
Prepare for the uproarious launch of FOAMSTARS, an exuberant online shooter with captivating four-on-four gameplay modes. Releasing on both PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, this high-speed cooperative game introduces foam as the ultimate game-changer. Players can ingeniously utilize foam to create slippery surfaces for lightning-fast arena navigation, erect barriers for defense or strategic advantage, and even coat opponents to secure victory.
Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis
Available on: iOS, Android
Release Date: September 7, 2023
Immerse yourself in the chapter-based RPG adventure of Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis. This unique experience intricately weaves original game events with fresh narrative elements centering around Sephiroth, a young hero. Penned by Kazushige Nojima, the mastermind behind Final Fantasy VII Remake's story, this title ensures an enriched exploration of the iconic Final Fantasy VII timeline.
Infinity Strash: Dragon Quest The Adventure of Dai
Available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Switch, PC (Steam, Microsoft Store)
Release Date: September 28, 2023
Embark on a dual RPG odyssey with Infinity Strash: Dragon Quest The Adventure of Dai. Choose between Story Mode, recounting the legendary anime's Sovereign Rock Castle arc, or the Temple of Recollection, an evolving dungeon teeming with challenges. As you plunge deeper, enemies grow fiercer, and rewards more enticing—although, beware, defeat comes at a cost.
Little Goody Two Shoes
Available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Switch, PC (Steam)
Release Date: To Be Confirmed
Step into the enigmatic Kieferberg Village with Little Goody Two Shoes, a heartfelt homage to early PlayStation and PlayStation 2 RPGs. Follow Elise, an aspiring girl yearning for prosperity, on her journey through a '90s-inspired horror RPG. Balancing tasks during the day and unraveling the woods' enigma at night, players will forge their path, solve puzzles, and nurture relationships in this nostalgic realm.
PowerWash Simulator
Available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC (Steam)
Release Date: Now Available
Relax and cleanse with PowerWash Simulator, a distinctive entry in the simulation genre. Craft your own power-washing enterprise and obliterate dirt and grime with therapeutic high-pressure water. Offering a serene escapism experience, PowerWash Simulator invites players to unwind while revitalizing virtual spaces.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R
Available on: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Switch, PC (Steam)
Release Date: November 2, 2023
Experience the reimagined charm of Star Ocean: The Second Story R, merging captivating 2.5D aesthetics with classic RPG gameplay. Traverse a fusion of breathtaking 3D environments and charming 2D pixel characters. Engage in fast-paced, real-time combat, delve into party progression, and explore skills like Cooking and Alchemy. With an enhanced visual direction, thrilling gameplay, and refreshed character illustrations and music, this title promises both nostalgia and modernity.
Insightful Panels
September 1
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. – PowerWash Simulator: Past, Present, Futur (Twitch)
Join Kahlief Adams of Spawn On Me, alongside the minds behind PowerWash Simulator, for an interactive panel. Explore the origins of this indie sensation, the crucial role of players in its evolution, and the thriving community that FuturLab and Square Enix Collective have cultivated.
September 2
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. – Voices from Valisthea, a Final Fantasy XVI Panel (Twitch)
Led by Localization Director Michael-Christopher Koji Fox, the voices behind Final Fantasy XVI characters come together for an engaging dialogue. Note: Panel may contain spoilers. Attendees will receive a commemorative Clive pixel pin.
Assorted Attractions
Throughout the event, attendees can capture the perfect shot with a colossal statue of Ifrit, the fiery Eikon from Final Fantasy XVI.
Furthermore, fans can engage in a digital photo experience, posing with Cloud and Zack or selecting Midgar from Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis as their backdrop. Share the snaps on social media using #FF7EC. For those who pre-register at the booth, there's a chance to win an exclusive Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis T-shirt.
1. First, you'll need your badge. If you don't have it, pick it up at Will Call in the Sheraton.
The PS5 edition of Baldur's Gate 3 will be accessible for play by attendees at the PAX West 2023 exposition, a novel gaming event set to unfold in Seattle from September 1st to 4th.
Baldur's Gate 3, now holding the title of the best-selling game for PS5 on the PlayStation Store, is poised for release on the Sony console come September 6th. This iteration will encompass all previously launched patches and hotfixes available to PC players.
Hence, the PAX West 2023 event is poised to provide a captivating chance to amass feedback from visitors about this rendition, offering insights a few days ahead of the official launch.
Equally, recent positive tidings have reached Xbox enthusiasts: the launch of Baldur's Gate 3 on Xbox Series X|S is officially earmarked for 2023. This affirmation followed discussions between Larian Studios' CEO, Sven Vincke and Phil Spencer.
Evidently, they've successfully uncovered a strategy to expedite and refine the porting process, which had indeed presented challenges to the development squad. It's plausible that Xbox Game Studios might extend their support to Larian in navigating this terrain.
Celebrate the 15th anniversary of AcqInc and witness the events that lead directly into the upcoming Acq Inc: The Series at the PAX Main Theater and on Twitch! Learn more at http://PAXWest23.com/AcqInc
The McElroy Family has gained fame for their clever, sometimes whimsical, and occasionally emotionally charged podcasts that captivate listeners globally. From the jovial escapades of "My Brother, My Brother and Me" to the intense tabletop journeys in "The Adventure Zone," there's a wealth of top-notch content ready to be immersed in. Listening to them through your preferred podcast platform is nothing short of enchanting, and enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to witness the McElroys in person at PAX West 2023.
With immense excitement that I share the news of the McElroys' appearances at PAX West 2023
PAX West 2023McElroy Family Autograph & Panel ScheduleDevotees of the McElroy family have numerous chances to catch Clint, Justin, Griffin, and Travis at Pax West 2023, participating in several prominent events. Here's the schedule for Friday, September 1st, and Saturday, September 2nd:
- McElroy Family Q&A: Taking place on Friday, September 1st, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Main Theater (Level 5, East).
- Randomly Generated Panel: Scheduled for Saturday, September 2nd, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Main Theater (Level 5, East).
- Free Autograph Signing: Set for Saturday, September 2nd, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM at the Autograph Area (App, Level 0).
Find it on Level 3 of the Summit at the show.
See it at PAXWest23.com/Pinquest!
Comments