by Jessica Ham
As the days go by and we still do not have more news on Red Dead Redemption 2, we must soldier on and be happy about the other video games in our lives. After E3, the hype is real, and there are some exciting games that released this July.
Octopath Traveler, a 2-D turn-based RPG, released on July 13. I am not usually a fan of turn-based RPG, except Child of Light of course, but this game has gotten wonderful reviews. The game features eight different characters, each with their own unique attributes, jobs, and stories. The only critique the game has received is that some characters are better than others, with some completely ruining the game by being too weak in boss battles. 
Sonic Mania Plus, an expanded version of Sonic Mania released on July 17 on X-Box One, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game includes two new characters, Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Flying Squirrel, new difficulty settings, and a new boss fight. The game has received rave reviews, as Sonic is one of the most beloved video game characters in the world.
The gaming world is all abuzz as No Man’s Sky’s big game-changing update was released on July 24. When the game originally released on August 9, 2016, it was met with harsh critique and grand disappointment from the people who had waited years for the game. The game basically became an epic failure, and no one really played it much longer after release. However, recently, an update was announced which would change the entire game. According to the official No Man Sky’s website, the update includes extensive multiplayer options, space battles, improved graphics, unlimited base building, and command freighters. 
At San Diego Comic-Con this year, fans of The Walking Dead game by Telltale Games got a deeper glimpse into the final season. At the panel, fans were shown exclusive footage of the first fifteen minutes of the first episode. The game features Clementine as the main character caring for a young A.J. There is a bit of a time jump from season 3 to this final season as A.J is seen in the footage and trailer to be a few years older than when we last saw him. I am excited for this to come out, but also terrified for it to be coming to an end.
The gaming world is ramping up for the holidays, so be sure to be out on the lookout for exciting new games to come.
You can use these links to purchase some of the games on Amazon. If you have ad blocker on you may not see the link:
I always enjoy your columns, Jessica. Keep ’em coming!