SoulCalibur II HD Online
Another re-release on the list, but this is one that is quite a bit older than the others. The original SoulCalibur II was a huge release in the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Gamecube era, that I played all the time with friends. I’m kind of disappointed we aren’t getting a Wii U version as all of my time was with the Gamecube and the exclusive Link character. However, this re-release still looks to be very well done with the inclusion of online as well as adding the two other console exclusives, Spawn and Heihachi, to both versions this time around. Look for this game on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on November 20.
Super Mario 3D World
In what possibly may be my most anticipated title of the entire month, which is a pretty impressive title considering the introduction of PlayStation 4 and Xbox One games, Super Mario 3D World just keeps looking better and better with every trailer. At first I will admit that I was kind of disappointed with the initial E3 trailer considering I was expecting the next amazing 3D Mario game in the style of Super Mario Galaxy. However, that thought has been completely proven wrong with every new detail coming out about this game. The levels looks innovative, the powerups look unique and memorable, and the multiplayer in a 3D plane looks fantastic. While the Wii U may not truly be next-gen in graphics when compared to the other two consoles, this game looks absolutely gorgeous and I can’t wait to get my hands on it on November 22.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
While it may seem like an odd release day choice to go up against Super Mario 3D World and the Xbox One, the next Legend of Zelda game shouldn’t have much trouble finding an audience. In this semi-sequel to the original A Link to the Past, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds looks to take the Zelda franchise and turn it on its head with many new changes. The graphics style is brand new to the series and is said to look best when using 3D on the Nintendo 3DS. The ability to tackle the dungeons in any order you please is very different for the Legend of Zelda franchise and possibly is a sign of things to come in the series. You can pick up The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds on November 22 for the 3DS.
Mario Party: Island Tour
While the previous title seemed odd to be released on the day it is, this one is really a head scratcher. The Mario Party series is quite popular, but to release a handheld version on the same day as two other titanic Nintendo titles and the Xbox One is just plain odd. Regardless, the game still looks like a lot of fun, though it is missing online play. The boards and mini-games look great in typical Mario Party fashion, and should be a great game to play on roadtrips, especially if you have multiple 3DS as you can utilize Download Play to do multiplayer across multiple 3DS with only one cartridge. Don’t forget about Mario Party: Island Tour on November 22.
Dead Rising 3
It was impossible for me to leave this game off the list after seeing that trailer for the game at E3 this year. The graphics look outstanding and the open-world aspect of the game takes the Dead Rising series to a whole new level. The violence looks even more hardcore this time around and looks to truly show off the limits of early next generation games. You can get your hands on Dead Rising 3 alongside the Xbox One launch on November 22.
Ryse: Son of Rome
This game is another Xbox One exclusive that looks like one to own if you are getting the latest Microsoft console. Coming from Crytek, this game has a lot of hype behind it, and with Kinect not being as central to the game, my interest has been piqued even more. I have a feeling this is one of those games that will truly show off what next generation titles are capable of. Ryse will be available at launch on November 22 for the Xbox One.
So 3 re-releases, a new COD(which might as well be a re-release) and killzone shadowfall. If this really is the best november has to offer we’re looking at a really subpar month.