It's the start of a brand new year. One that hopefully sees the release of mind-blowing "next-gen" games on Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Following the launch of each console in late 2013, the next generation of gaming has fallen into sort of a lull. Each system had its fair share of exclusives and third-party titles available at launch, I think we're all ready for some new games. Unfortunately, January 2014 only sprinkles some new games into the Xbox One and PS4 lineup.
Don't Starve — PlayStation 4 — January 7, 2014
Although Don't Starve has technically been available for quite a while on PC, it's making its console debut on PlayStation 4 tomorrow, January 7. And what's more? The game will be completely free for PlayStation Plus members upon release. So if you are already paying for PS Plus to play PS4 games online, you'll have a new game to add to your collection.
For those unfamiliar, Don't Starve is an "uncompromising, randomly-generated survival game" where you must help the Gentleman Scientist Wilson survive the harsh environment of a mysterious world for as long as possible. You'll be tasked with gathering food, crafting tools, building shelter, and hunting foes.
Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition — PlayStation 4, Xbox One — January 28, 2014
Unfortunately, this will be the only "major" release either console will see in January — and, again, it's a game that has already been available for quite some time. The Tomb Raider reboot was first released on Xbox 360, PS3, and PC in March 2013. Although it received mostly-positive review scores, its sales were not up to Square Enix's desires.
Even if you've already experienced Lara's story, it's quite likely that you didn't experience it with the graphics that Crystal Dynamics promises. Texture resolutions have been increaseed, lighting has been improved, and Lara's head and face are now modeled for a more realistic look. And most importantly, Lara's hair now benefits from TressFX technology, meaning each of her hair strands are independently simulated and interact with the environmental effects with lifelike motion.
That's all, folks. Two games for PlayStation 4, one for Xbox One. Both have already been released prior to this. It's not the most exciting start to 2014, and things don't appear to get much better in February.
