2023 has been one year to remember for gamers. Several sequels to popular franchises managed to exceed the lofty expectations that surrounded them. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom most notably had critics and fans in awe of its vibrant open world and captivating story. Expanding on the premises of its direct predecessor, Breath of the Wild, this masterpiece became a straight-up must-have for the Nintendo Switch. And many more exciting sequels are coming our way shortly. So, let’s look at some highly-awaited game sequels scheduled in 2024.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
We start with one of the earliest releases on this list. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, also known as Yakuza 8, is dropping on January 26. The next mainline chapter in Sega’s iconic saga will mark the return of fan-favorite reformed mobster Kazuma Kiryu alongside Ichiban Kasuga. These two protagonists will have a lot on their plate, as a recent story trailer showed them battling hordes of gangsters in the streets of Honolulu.
A historic first for the Japanese franchise, this open-world RPG adventure mainly plays out overseas. This new episode will still remain true to a winning formula of charismatic characters, epic brawling, and wacky minigames. Filling the gaps in Kiryu’s story, a spin-off titled The Man Who Erased His Name is set to pave the way for this much-anticipated sequel in November. Like a Dragon Gaiden will be available on day one on the Xbox Game Pass.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
Hellblade: Senua’s Saga is easily one of the most intense gaming experiences of the past years. As creatively ambitious as cleverly thought-out, this atmospheric action-adventure title was applauded for its unique take on the genre. Following the journey of Senua, a Pict warrior suffering from trauma on her way to Helheim to rescue her late lover’s soul, the game depicts psychosis in a complex and multidimensional way.
The dark fantasy world designed by Ninja Theory is coming back in style in 2024. An official gameplay trailer dropped during the Xbox Games Showcase. No release date has been disclosed, but this next installation looks ever-so-gorgeous in the visuals department. The game’s soundtrack will reportedly be composed by the Scandinavian folk band Heilung in a fitting tribute to the franchise’s Nordic setting.
Homeworld 3
Some sequels are a long time in the making. The first installation in the sci-fi Homeworld series came out in 1999. Fifteen years later, a Remastered Collection brought new fans onboard. And the upcoming launch of Homeworld 3 plays into that reboot dynamic. Initially slated for release in 2022, this outer space adventure was postponed to February 2024.
Both nostalgic fans of the original saga and newcomers to this classic RTS series can, therefore, assume the command of a fleet of battleships in no time. The fate of the galaxy is in their hands as they take control of Imogen S’jet, the heir to the legendary protagonist of the first two games, to fight a mysterious scourge threatening the very existence of every sentient being around.
The Wolf Among Us 2
First released in 2013, The Wolf Among Us is considered the best graphic adventure title developed by Telltale Games. This neo-noir mystery drama explores the uncanny murders that have bereaved Fabletown, a community of fairy-tale beings taking human form after fleeing their magical lands. Sheriff Bigby Wolf must get to the bottom of these grim events. The former Big Bad Wolf is coming back in The Wolf Among Us, which takes place six months after the events told in the previous title and is expected to be released sometime in 2024.
Meanwhile, eager fans can revisit the original game or try such subversive fairy tale reimagining as Alice: Madness Returns or Lies of P. The iGaming industry has also explored this whimsical theme. Gamers may play real money slots like Quickspin’s Big Bad Wolf. Top online casinos boast many more fairytale-infused pokies to spin. Some machine slots are even compatible with mobile devices for a session on the go. Additionally, exclusive casino bonuses await players willing to put real money at stake.
2024 is looking great for popular series and indie franchises alike. And there are more surprises in store. While Hades II lacks a definitive release window, this highly-awaited sequel will be available in early access next year. Other much hoped-for sequels might also hit the shelves in 2024, including Hollow Knight: Silksong and Metroid Prime 4.
