The April 2024 games list is admittedly not as strong as recent months, but it still packs a punch, especially for JRPG fans. At least there’s an indie classic getting revitalized for new platforms!
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Switch)
Publisher: 505 GamesDeveloper: Rabbit & Bear StudiosPrice: $49.99Release Date: April 23Trailer
After the tepidly received first game prologue (whichDestructoid actually liked) in the series,Hundred Heroesseems to be the actual strategy RPG fans have been hoping for. Acting as a spiritual successor to theSuikodenseries, some of the former developers of the games modernize the gameplay for modern audiences. For example, it takes the gorgeous 2D sprites and places them within grand 3D environments like the acclaimedOctopath Traveler series.
As the title suggests, there will be over 100 characters to play as within this big RPG. Intrepid adventurers take their first step into this world onApril 23.
Stellar Blade (PS5)
Publisher: Sony Interactive EntertainmentDeveloper: Shift Up CorporationPrice: $69.99Release Date: April 26Trailer
The game may be controversial, but thedemo of this action gamehas impressed many. The stunning Chinese-developed title shows gorgeous combat, detailed environments, and intriguing bosses to encounter. Those who want to push their PS5 graphically might be happy to know the game runs at 1440p with 60 frames per second.
Additionally, those who enjoyedNier Automatamight be happy to know it inspired the game. “Nier: Automataleft a huge impression on me,”Stellar Bladedirector Kim Hyung-tae toldIGN. “It made me realize that a game like this could be made, and allowed me to rediscover the kind of game that I want to make.” You can try out the demo to figure out if it’s for you and then carry your save data to the full game.
Tales of Kenzera: Zau (PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Switch)
Publisher: EADeveloper: Surgent StudiosPrice: $19.99 ($17.99 if you pre-order)Release Date: April 23Trailer
Tales of Kenzera: Zauis likely to continue the trend of great Metroidvanias after the superbPrince of Persia: The Lost Crown.With stirring, vibrant visuals and an emotional story starring a boy shaman wanting to revive his fallen father, there’s a lot of potential to be had. EA says on thegame’s Steam page, “We’ll own [our] journey alongside mythical characters from whom you will gain valuable life lessons.” This game revolves around time-based abilities and fiery spears that will hopefully grip us in its combat.
Sand Land (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
Publisher: Bandai NamcoDeveloper: ILCAPrice: $59.99Release Date: April 26Trailer
DespiteAkira Toriyama’s unfortunate passing, his legacy continues with theSand Landanime series and now the video game. Adapted from the 2000 manga, thisSand Landgame lets you explore the desert in cool tanks and other machinery. You’ll be trying to find the Legendary Spring on this quest as you take on all sorts of creatures and customize your powerful vehicles. Hopefully, this game lives up to the famous manga artist’s legendary history.
Braid: Anniversary Edition (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Netflix)
Publisher: Thekla Inc.Developer:Thekla Inc.Price: Not announced yetRelease Date: April 30Trailer
After multiple years of delays,Braid Anniversary Editionfinally arrives on modern platforms and mobile devices (via Netflix) on April 30. It comes with many new features, including the game being re-painted by the original artist, over 15 hours of developer commentary, additional music, and a new world to explore in this 2D time-based platformer. Developer Jonathan Blow says onBraid‘s websitethat one of Thekla Inc.’s goals is to make “the craziest, most-in-depth commentary ever put in a video game.”
“Many areas have been envisioned to make them more unique, and it’s even more like a living painting with brushstrokes animating the world,” explainsthe game’s release date trailer. “There are more than nine pixels for each pixel in the original game.” The 2008 indie classic has certainly been remastered in more ways than one. If you haven’t played the original, this might be one of the best April 2024 games to try. Check outour original review!
