Upcoming games to get excited about in 2021
From Animal Crossing: New Horizons to the long-awaited Cyberpunk 2077, there's no denying 2020 was a huge year for gaming across all platforms. In fact, the gaming industry can't stop growing, and is estimated to be worth an amazing $159.3 billion (£119.2 billion) for 2020 - that's a massive 9.3% increase compared to 2019.
And things are certainly not slowing down as we head into 2021. Whether you're a diehard PlayStation fan or prefer to game on the go with your Android, there are so many new titles to look forward to in 2021.
Pokémon Unite
Available on: iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch
First announced during a very special Pokémon Presents on 24th June 2020, Pokémon Unite is the first ever MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game from The Pokémon Company. Partnering with Tencent and developed by TiMi Studios, it will be available on Android, iOS and Nintendo Switch with an official launch date to still be confirmed. The game will be free to play, with some in-app purchases expected.
A strategy-based battle game, teams must compete against each other to capture or destroy specific points on the Pokémon Unite map. You'll have the chance to fight and catch wild Pokémon throughout, helping you put together your perfect team of five to go head-to-head against other players. Favourites like Pikachu, Snorlax, Clefairy, Charmander, Bulbasaur and Squirtle will all be available, and an evolution mechanic means the likes of Charizard, Blastoise and Venusaur feature too.
If you just can't get enough of Pokémon, keep your eyes out for reboot of early 2000s favourite Pokémon Snap in 2021 too - available exclusively on Nintendo Switch.
GTA V Remastered
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Grand Theft Auto needs no introduction, and after seven years the award-winning Grand Theft Auto V is back. Reimagined for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC by Rockstar Games, Grand Theft Auto V Remastered isn't just a redo of the original - it's much more.
Players can expect exclusive new content and an expanded storyline, alongside massive technical improvements, performance upgrades and even better visuals. Following the same plot as the 2013 original, you can play in either first or third person, and you'll be able to choose which of the three lead characters (Trevor, Michael and Franklin) to control, as they get up to no good and carry out a number of heists.
GTA V Remastered is expected to drop in the second half of 2021.
The Witcher: Monster Slayer
Available on: iOS, Android
If you love Andrzej Sapkowski's book series The Witcher, or you've been addicted to the Netflix adaptation, then you won't want to miss out on the upcoming smartphone game.
The Witcher: Monster Slayer is an augmented reality, location-based game for iOS and Android. Set long before the time of Geralt of Rivia, you'll be taking on the role The Witcher, fighting ferocious beasts that torment the world around you. In a similar style to Pokémon Go, you can view your local area through a whole new lens, and whether you're on the way to work or walking through the woods with a noble steed (or shall we say dog) by your side, there'll always be a monster nearby to conquer.
Far Cry 6
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/ S, Xbox One, PC, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna
Far Cry 6 is the next addition to the popular Far Cry series, which was first launched way back in 2004. The latest instalment will officially land on February 18th 2021 for all major gaming consoles and both Google Stadia and Amazon Luna.
This gritty first-person shooter game will be set on the fictional island of Yara, located somewhere in the Caribbean. Ruled by a dictator known as El Presidente Antón Castillo, you'll take the role of Dani Rojas - a guerrilla fighter attempting to overthrow the Castillo family.
While sharing many similarities with previous Far Cry games, Far Cry 6 is expected to bring a number of firsts to the franchise. Developers Ubisoft haven't revealed all just yet, but with variations like a major city as your base, and the complex involvement of Castillo's 13-year-old son, there are sure to be some exciting new concepts introduced in the game.
If you love gaming, but fancy trying something a bit different, don't forget to check out our blog on the best live game streaming platforms of 2020. And if it’s mobile gaming you love, why not take a look at our great handset deals here at Mobiles.co.uk.