Just last week, we missed out on a couple of notable drops: Life is Strange: Double Exposure, known for its exceptional storytelling and unexpected twists, made its digital debut, and arcade aficionados might be buzzing over the archive addition of Taito’s Final Blow, a retro boxing game.
Now, moving into Thanksgiving week, you’d think there’d be a slowdown in North American releases, but given recent trends, surprises are still likely. Topping the list this week is the newly localized Riviera: The Promised Land. This strategy RPG could provide that perfect escape from family gatherings this weekend. Personally, I’m quite curious about Steam Prison: Beyond the Steam, which, unlike its predecessor, comes at a friendlier price since it’s a fandisc. Nine Sols is generating some buzz among enthusiasts of unique indie titles, while Critter Cafe brings a touch of whimsy courtesy of the Wholesome Direct. Meanwhile, Broken Reality might just sneak in as a dark horse hit.
In the realm of retro games, there’s some excitement too: Snow Bros. Wonderland breathes new life into the classic stage-based action format. If you’re looking to relive the past, the Epyx Sports Collection, known for its quirky events like Hacky Sack, is available, while The Scheme—a shooter that doesn’t demand fluency in Japanese—lands on EggConsole.
North America
Several intriguing games are making their way to the North American market. Among them is Crown Wars: The Black Prince, tagged at $49.99 US or C$66.99. Steam Prison: Beyond the Steam follows at $44.62, with Riviera: The Promised Land attracting attention at $34.99. Nine Sols, arriving Tuesday, is priced at $29.99, and it shares its price tag with Snow Bros. Wonderland and Tokyo Psychodemic. Critter Cafe, available Tuesday, offers a lighter price at $19.99. Meanwhile, Crystal Breaker and Dungeons of Dreadrock 2—The Dead King’s Secret are priced more affordably, at $14.99. Fans of experimental titles should look out for Beyond Memories: Tale of the Lost Souls and Glitch Hero, both close in price at $11.99.
Don’t miss out on deals either, as it’s Black Friday season. Significant discounts may hit your wishlist thanks to various Cyber Deals, perhaps the perfect opportunity to snag a game you’ve been eyeing.
Europe
Over in Europe, alongside Crown Wars: The Black Prince at €49.99, there’s Steam Prison: Beyond the Steam for €39.87. Riviera: The Promised Land will be out by Wednesday at €34.99, and Nine Sols will be out Tuesday, priced at €29.99. Critter Cafe and Dungeons of Dreadrock 2 offer midweek releases at more budget-friendly prices of €19.99 and €14.99, respectively.
Japan
Japan’s gaming market brings its flair with titles like Magical Story: Fear and the Mysterious School and Rent-a-Girlfriend: The Horizon and the Girl in a Swimsuit, both priced at ¥8580. Noteworthy is Snow Bros. Wonderland at ¥6380 and Nine Sols, hitting the market on Tuesday for ¥3410. The lineup also features Steam Prison: Beyond the Steam at a reasonable ¥6490, for those who prefer immersive narratives.
So, whether you’re gobbling down turkey in North America, sipping tea in Europe, or diving into the latest titles in Japan, this week promises a diverse selection of gaming delights. Keep your gaming setups ready, enjoy the holiday cheer wherever you are, and perhaps snag a bargain in the process!