After the glut of October and November, it appears December will be a quiet month for new title releases. There are just a handful of video games with a December release date. For some, the break is what they need to try out some of the big releases they missed during the October rush.
However, if you happen to be in the category of gamers always chasing down new titles, this list is for you. What we found really interesting about the video games on this list is that they will all come in time before the holidays.
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Most of the video games releasing in December are either remakes or expansions of already existing games. Nevertheless, there are still a few fresh releases that caught our interest. Â
5 Biggest video games releasing in December 2023
The games releasing in December are cut across every genre from first-person to third-person RPG, managerial, and VR. Therefore, regardless of your choice of games, you will likely find a game that satiates your interest on this list.
The last time we published a list like this, we did not include VR games. However, due to the paucity of new titles, we added VR games to this list. Without further chitchats, let’s dive in!
#1. SteamWorld Build (December 1)
We had SteamWorld Dig, SteamWorld Heist, and now we will get SteamWorld Build ushering in the month of December. Developed by The Station and published by Thunderful Publishing, SteamWorld Build continues a series of video games that highlight the adventure of steam-driven robots that dare to dream big.
“Break ground on a new frontier as the planet dies around you!” read the official game blob. “Dig deep and build wide to excavate long-lost spacefaring technology, while ensuring everyone has the vital water, fuel, and creature comforts they need! Do you have what it takes to reach the final frontier?”
SteamWorld Build allows you to build a new civilization on desolate arid land. To build the town, you need to collect resources from mines. The mines are often crawling with dangerous creatures, and you have to build defenses to ward them off. You can pre-order the game on Steam.
#2. Disney Dreamlight Valley: A Rift In Time (December 5)
Disney Dreamlight Valley is set in the magical world of Eternity Isle. No thanks to the meddling of the Jafar in magic in his quest for power, the kingdom has become lost in time. It is now up to you to make things right with the help of the mysterious new royal tool called the Hourglass. “Fixing the past is as simple as turning an hourglass.
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During your journey, you will meet new friends who will guide you along the way. Also, you will unlock dark secrets and treasures long forgotten. A Rift in Time is an expansion with three new Biomes, each containing new explorable areas.
Disney Dreamlight Valley: A Rift in Time was developed and published by Gameloft and is set for release on December 5. The game is currently on sale for 40% less on Steam, Microsoft Store, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.
#3. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (December 7)
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is arguably the biggest and most anticipated video game releasing in December. Interestingly, it will launch on the same day as The Game Awards. The open-world action-adventure game is based on the Avatar film series. It was developed by Massive Entertainment and published by Ubisoft.
The game follows the story of a Na’vi abducted by a human militaristic corporation called the RDA. They were trained and molded to serve the purpose of the RDA. However, when the RDA came under attack, the abducted Na’vi were abandoned. Fifteen years later, you are free but now a stranger to your birthplace. You are tasked with reconnecting with your lost heritage and joining other clans to protect Pandora from the RDA.
#4. The Day Before (December 7)
After several delays and bogus explanations, including this game on this list is more of a gamble because it may still be delayed again. The December 7 release date should be taken with a pinch of salt. Also, the studio revealed that the game will only be launched on Steam Early Access while console launch will be announced at a later date.
When the game was first announced in 2021, gamers were impressed by the visuals, and many thought it was highly ambitious. However, after multiple delays, Fntastic released a gameplay trailer that was highly underwhelming.
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In February, Fntastic announced that it had been hit by a copyright claim which eventually led to the taking down of the game on Steam. Their YouTube channel was also pulled down. The lack of transparency in communication has seen the fans of the franchise dwindle with many now wondering whether the game even exists or if it is just a sham bubble on the verge of explosion.
#5. Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 (December 14)
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 is the sequel to the 2019 virtual reality survival horror game developed by Steel Wool Studios and Lionsgate Games. It is the ninth installment in the series. This VR game has been optimized for the PSVR2. Like every other VR game, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 will take a first-person view.
The game follows the story of a fictitious corporative entity called Fazbear Entertainment. After a long string of debilitating lawsuits that followed several unfortunate disasters and incidents at their different locations, the corporation is working hard to improve its public image.
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Once you get into Fazbear Entertainment, there are lots of minigames to beat. Each of the minigames also has its rewards. The first installment had four different endings that depended on the player’s choice. It would be interesting to see what new endings will be added to the game.
Full list of video games releasing in December
Although the video games on this list are the ones we believe you should not miss, there are other games coming out in December that you should give a try—if you have the time. Below is the full list of games releasing in December.
- SteamWorld Build (PC, PS4/5, Switch, Xbox One, XSX/S) – December 1
- Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince (Switch) – December 1
- Sonic Dream Team (Apple Arcade) – December 5
- Disney Dreamlight Valley (PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, XSX/S) – December 5
- Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (PC, PS5, XSX/S) – December 7
- Outer Wilds: Archaeologist Edition (Switch) – December 7
- The Day Before (PC) – December 7
- Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 (PSVR2) – December 14
- Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising (PC, PS4/5) – December 14
- Gnosia (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, XSX/S) – December 14
Which of the video game titles releasing in December are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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