What Were the Best Summer Game Fest and Not-E3 Game Announcements

Now that the Summer Game Fest and “not” E3 showcases are pretty much done, lets go over our favorite game announcements. So much came up, both during the June 8, 2023 presentation and the other developer and publisher presentations. So let’s point out titles people might have missed and share what we can’t wait to play.

After seeing all the Summer Game Fest, Xbox Games Showcase, and PlayStation Showcase games, I think the ones I liked best are Beastieball and Persona 5 Tactica. The former is because I loved games like Inazuma Eleven and Dodgeball Academia, and it’s giving me similar sorts of vibes. As for Persona 5 Tactica, I was hesitant about another spin-off! But I love strategy games, so I’m willing to give it a chance. — Jenni

The two games that stuck out to me were actually completely unexpected. I’m not a huge fan of Akira Toriyama’s aesthetic style, but SAND LAND’s ramshackle vehicles looked absolutely charming and I cant wait to start patching them together. Similarly, I’m not much for side scrollers but Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown won me over with it’s visuals and the promise of Persian mythology. I better get some sandals ready, seems I’m going to be spending a lot of time in the desert. — Elliot

Two standout titles for me during Summer Games Fest were Metaphor: ReFantazio and Star Wars Outlaws. Outlaws feels just like the open-world Star Wars game I’ve been hoping for, especially after the tragic late cancellation of 1313, though I am a bit cautiously optimistic for now. On the other hand, Metaphor is the JRPG I didn’t know I wanted. Taking the classic Atlus turn-based systems from the Persona series and applying it to a gorgeous, unique fantasy world has me immensely excited. Plus, its UI might be the greatest of all time. — Cody

Two games caught me by surprise this year. I’m not a massive Star Wars fan, yet Star Wars: Outlaws managed to win me over, while Jusant was a cute little treat. Apparently the key to getting my attention is adding a lil friend who rides on the protagonist’s shoulder. However, the big game for me was Alan Wake 2. Control was my favourite game of 2019 and got me deeply invested in Remedy’s bizarre shared universe. I have been ready for Alan Wake 2 from the moment the AWE DLC ended, and finally, here it is! It has weird deer-head cultist people! It’s split between the real world and the dark world! It may sort of have Max Payne in it? It’s all happening, and I’m excited for October now. Only thing missing is a lil friend riding on either Saga or Alan’s shoulder. Can’t have everything, I guess. — Leigh