Sony’s February 12, 2025 State of Play showcase delivered a feast for fans of third-person combat games. From stylish hack-and-slash titles to atmospheric adventures, the event highlighted an impressive lineup of upcoming releases for PS5, Xbox, and PC. While each game promises its own unique take on the genre, they collectively emphasize fast-paced, visually striking gameplay that will keep players engaged for years to come. Let’s dive into some of the standout titles from the presentation and what makes them worth watching.
Stellar Blade and Lies of P DLC: Familiar Faces with Fresh Twists
One of the first entries in this wave is Stellar Blade , a sci-fi action RPG developed by Shift Up. The game offers flashy combat mechanics and customizable character designs, allowing players to slice through enemies while looking their best. Despite some criticisms regarding its narrative depth and soundtrack, the core gameplay remains compelling, particularly for those who enjoy mastering complex combo systems.
A notable highlight is the announcement of a crossover DLC between Stellar Blade and Goddess of Victory: Nikke , another title from Shift Up. This collaboration could address one of Stellar Blade ‘s weaker points—its shooting mechanics—by integrating elements from the shooter-based Nikke . Fans of both games should be excited to see how these worlds collide.
Meanwhile, Lies of P , the Pinocchio-inspired Soulslike released in 2023, is set to expand its universe with a prequel DLC. This addition not only enriches the lore but also provides more opportunities for players to immerse themselves in its dark, challenging world.
Lost Soul Aside: Final Fantasy-Inspired Beauty
Another gem showcased during the event was Lost Soul Aside , a visually stunning action RPG developed by Ultizero Games. Its vibrant landscapes and intricate architecture stand out amidst the sea of post-apocalyptic settings featured in many modern games. Inspired by Final Fantasy XV , Lost Soul Aside boasts breathtaking vistas and dynamic combat sequences that promise to captivate players.
Development began as a solo project in 2014 before expanding into a team effort, ensuring that creator Yang Bing’s vision comes to life with high fidelity. Originally planned for the PS4, the game now targets next-gen consoles like the PS5, guaranteeing smoother performance and enhanced visuals. Additionally, PC gamers can look forward to experiencing the game’s beauty without platform restrictions.
Onimusha Returns: A Samurai Twist
Capcom paid homage to its classic Onimusha series with two announcements: a remastered version of Onimusha 2 and a fresh entry titled Onimusha: Way of the Sword. The remaster brings back the iconic samurai-action gameplay beloved by fans, while the new installment introduces innovative mechanics that encourage interaction with the environment.
In Way of the Sword , protagonist Miyamoto Musashi uses his surroundings to gain tactical advantages, such as using objects for cover or entangling enemies with hanging clothes. These creative touches add layers of strategy and humor to traditional combat scenarios, making it distinct from other samurai-themed games. If executed well, this approach could elevate the experience beyond mere button-mashing and into something truly memorable.
Hell Is Us: Surreal Post-Apocalypse
Among the darker offerings, Hell Is Us stood out for its unconventional aesthetic and tone. Developed by Rogue Factor, the game reimagines the post-apocalyptic genre with surreal visuals and eccentric characters. Voiced by Elias ToufExis (Deus Ex ), the protagonist exudes charisma despite—or perhaps because of—the bleakness surrounding him.
The trailer emphasized mood over mechanics, teasing a world where reality bends and warps in unexpected ways. By blending absurdity with despair, Hell Is Us aims to differentiate itself from the countless dystopian narratives flooding the market. Whether it succeeds depends on how effectively it balances these elements in gameplay, but early impressions are promising.
Tides of Annihilation: Arthurian Elegance
Tides of Annihilation rounds out the list with its blend of gothic fantasy and Arthurian legend. Set in a crumbling world, the game follows Gwendolyn, a warrior accompanied by spectral allies as she battles colossal beasts. Visually, it leans toward elegance rather than grit, offering a refreshing contrast to the predominantly masculine aesthetics seen in similar titles.
The combat appears fluid and responsive, incorporating traversal mechanics reminiscent of NieR: Automata . While details remain scarce, the combination of graceful movement and epic showdowns suggests a polished experience awaits players when the game launches.
Monster Hunter Wilds and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Though slightly different in style, Monster Hunter Wilds and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii further diversify the third-person combat landscape. Monster Hunter Wilds continues the franchise’s tradition of large-scale monster hunting, while Like a Dragon blends yakuza drama with pirate adventure, showcasing the versatility of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s storytelling prowess.
These additions ensure there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer cooperative multiplayer experiences or narrative-driven escapades.
Why the Surge in Third-Person Combat Games?
The abundance of third-person combat games reflects broader trends in gaming culture. Players increasingly crave visceral, skill-based challenges combined with cinematic flair, qualities inherent to this genre. Moreover, advancements in technology enable developers to craft richer worlds and more sophisticated combat systems, pushing boundaries and raising expectations.
For Sony, showcasing these titles aligns with its strategy to attract diverse audiences while reinforcing the PlayStation brand’s reputation for high-quality exclusives. By collaborating with established studios like Capcom and independent talents like Ultizero Games, the company demonstrates its commitment to fostering innovation within the industry.
As we move closer to release dates for these games, anticipation grows among fans eager to test their skills against increasingly formidable foes. Each title brings something unique to the table, whether through innovative mechanics, striking visuals, or thought-provoking narratives. For enthusiasts of third-person combat, the coming months promise nothing short of a gaming renaissance.
While the prevalence of post-apocalyptic themes may feel repetitive, the creativity infused into these projects offers hope for fresher perspectives down the line. Perhaps future showcases will introduce brighter, more optimistic futures to counterbalance the doom-laden tales dominating today’s landscape.
Until then, gamers can revel in the sheer variety of experiences awaiting them. With so much talent pouring into the genre, the only question left is: Which sword will you wield first?
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