Open world and role playing games are two of the most popular genres in gaming circles at the moment. After a big year in 2012, 2013 looks set to be even more exciting for these two fascinating genres, with some great releases on the horizon. Here are the top titles to look out for.
GTA V
With its inception in 1997, the Grand Theft Auto series regularly used to top the top 10 pc games charts, and since its move to consoles, it has been a massive success too. Without a doubt, the latest in the Rock Star developed titles, Grand Theft Auto V, is one of the most anticipated releases of the year; with a brand new setting, tons of mini games and, for the first time ever, three interchangeable main characters. The title is set for release sometime in the second quarter of 2013.
Elder Scrolls Online
Having been in development for over five years, Elder Scrolls Online is the long awaited MMO title of the Elder Scrolls series. The ZeniMax Online Studios title will be released sometime in 2013, the game is sure to be a massive hit, with Beta sign ups already having taken place in January of this year.
Bioshock Infinite
The Bioshock series redefined expectations of what a first person shooter gamecould be: with intricate steampunk creations and a beautiful alternative reality world of the United States of America, the nonlinear game play of the Irrational Games title demonstrated that there’s more to the genre than just warfare. The latest in the saga is Bioshock Infinite, a true open world game with a gripping storyline and great graphics. Set for release in March, Infinite has already picked up plenty of awards, winning Best of Show, Best Original Games, Best Action/Adventure Game and Best PC Game at the Game Critics Awards.
Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch
With stunning graphics, incredible scenery and brilliant gameplay, Wrath of the White Witch, the latest in the Ni no Kuni series, is an RPG that has it all. The title was developed by Level-5 in conjunction with Studio Ghibli and saw its release in January this year, and has already proved immensely popular.
Watch Dogs
Developed by Ubisoft, Watch Dogs is an original title that looks set to take the gaming world by storm. There has been a lot of excitement generated through online trailers that demonstrate incredible graphics and a hugely open feel to the game. Playing as Aiden Pierce your mission is to bring corrupt public figures to justice, using your physical and technical skills to help you achieve this. The game has already been met with positive pre-release reviews, with critics particularly impressed with Watch Dogs unique gameplay.
The Dark Eye: Demonicon
Fantasy themed RPG The Dark Eye: Demonicon is the 8th release in hugely successful series of The Dark Eye. The game will be one of the first major titles to be released this year, with February a likely date; however, with development coming from an in-house studio of gaming stalwarts Kalypso Media, the potential risky business of early release should be well managed.