Game Rant Weekly Roundup: January 29 - February 4, 2023

A look at the latest controversies surrounding Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, the State of Play broadcast, and more in this week's Game Rant recap.
Game Rant Weekly Roundup: January 29 - February 4, 2023

Highlights

  • Hideo Kojima unveils new action-espionage IP and Death Stranding 2 trailer in January 2024 State of Play.
  • Embracer Group cancels Deus Ex game and lays off 97 staff members, contributing to the increasing layoffs in the games industry.
  • The Last of Us Part 2 documentary hints at a potential Part 3 in the future.

The end of January 2024 saw a packed PlayStation State of Play, setting the stage for a competitive spring season in the gaming world. This week's Game Rant recap delves into the most significant headlines from the past week.

The games industry continues to be plagued by disappointing layoffs, with The Last of Us Part 2 documentary shedding light on the workplace culture at Naughty Dog. Additionally, the unexpected release of a new Silent Hill game has received mixed reviews. All this and more in our weekly roundup of gaming news.

January 2024 State of Play Unveils Kojima's Big Surprises

The recent State of Play revealed major announcements from Hideo Kojima, including a new action-espionage IP and an extensive story trailer for Death Stranding 2.

Embracer Group's Disappointing Moves

The cancellation of a new Deus Ex game after two years of development, coupled with laying off 97 employees, adds to the growing number of industry layoffs in 2024.

The Last of Us Part 2 Documentary Teases Future Installment

A new documentary from Naughty Dog details the tumultuous development journey of The Last of Us Part 2, hinting at the possibility of a future Part 3.

Surprise Release and Mixed Reception for New Silent Hill Game

Silent Hill: The Short Message was unveiled during the State of Play and released immediately after. However, the free-to-play title, despite its quick launch, has not entirely satisfied long-time fans hoping for a franchise revival.

Complete Gold Edition Announced for Resident Evil 4 Remake

The highly anticipated Ada Wong-led Separate Ways DLC for Resident Evil 4’s remake has been released. Additionally, Capcom plans to package the entire experience into the Resident Evil 4: Gold Edition, slated for release on February 20.

Features

Naughty Dog has shifted its focus solely to single-player titles, and while The Last of Us Part 3 is currently a conceptual idea, the studio's future projects remain uncertain. However, there’s speculation around Neil Druckmann's desire to create a Punisher game, potentially introducing a second playable character as either Frank Castle’s adversary or ally.

  • Exploring the Potential of a Naughty Dog Marvel Game

Movies & TV

Friday the 13th stands as one of the iconic classic franchises, yet, similar to its slasher-horror counterparts, the extensive series can be challenging to navigate in chronological order.

  • Optimal Viewing Order for the Friday the 13th Movies

Guides

Persona 3 Reload involves attending classes at Gekkoukan High and taking exams. Players aiming to boost their Charm stat should ensure they keep up with their studies and answer questions correctly.

  • Persona 3 Reload: Comprehensive Class Answers Guide

Game Rant Exclusives

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League emerges as the next chapter in Rocksteady’s beloved Arkhamverse. However, the game has stirred controversy due to its service-based nature, mandatory online connectivity, and portrayal of iconic characters.

  • Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Review