The best PS5 games you can pre-order right now, according to our Sony PlayStation gaming experts
There are dozens of incredibly popular PlayStation 5 games available right now, including Hogwarts Legacy (a game we highly recommend). But if you're already thinking about the next game to experience, we've compiled a roundup of the yet-to-be-released PS5 games we're most looking forward to. These are all upcoming releases, coming out between October and February 2024.
If you want to be among the first to play any of these games, we suggest placing your order right away — before the holiday season rush when popular games often sell out.
In fact, if you plan to shop for a PlayStation 5 Console, we're already seeing a huge demand, but Amazon still has them in stock (at least for the moment). The lower priced PS5 Digital Edition is much harder to find in stock, but Amazon currently has it and the PS5 Digital Edition - Gods of War Ragnarok Bundle in stock as well.
Let's check out some of our top picks for upcoming PS5 games.
Best Upcoming RPG: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Best Upcoming Superhero Adventure: Marvel Spider-Man 2
Best Upcoming Shooting Game: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
Our picks for PS5 games you should pre-order right now
This roundup includes a sampling of what we believe are the most anticipated and exciting PlayStation 5 games that have yet to be released. Keep in mind, in some cases a rating from the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) has not yet been set. In this case, we've listed the game's rating as pending.
Sonic Superstars
Release date: October 17, 2023 | Genre: Action | Rating: E
Our pal Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends are making their return once again on the PlayStation 5. This is a fast-paced and colorful "spin" on a video game classic. Forget those 16-bit graphics from the original Sonic the Hedgehog games on the Sega Genesis, what you'll experience in Sonic Superstars is more colorful and multi-dimensional, with graphic effects you've never seen before.
Sonic Superstars takes Sonic on a whirlwind adventure as he tries to gather the Chaos Emeralds. But he's not alone: His friends Tails, Knuckles and Amy Rose are all available to help on this high-energy quest, as they once again try to outsmart the evil Dr. Robotnik.
When you pre-order Sonic Superstars, the game will include the LEGO Eggman in-game character skin and reversible cover.
What we like about Sonic Superstars: Sega has modernized its classic Sonic the Hedgehog game franchise, so this game takes full advantage of the PS5's power, without compromising the classic game play that made these games so special, as well as super fun and challenging.
Marvel Spider-Man 2: Launch Edition
Release date: October 20, 2023 | Genre: Action/Adventure | Rating: T
In this soon-to-be-released action/adventure, Peter Parker and Miles Morales return as the Spider-Men for an all-new set of challenges. Once again, our web-slinging heroes will be able to swing, jump and run. But they'll also be able to use their new Web Wings to travel across an expanded version of Marvel's New York. You can switch between Peter Parker and Miles Morales to experience different story twists and character interactions, while being able to tap new powers.
The goal is to defeat Venom, who is once again threatening to destroy the city and defeat Spider-Man. Prepare yourself for appearances by Kraven the Hunter, Lizard and others too.
When you pre-order this game, you'll get the Arachknight Suit for Peter (that offers three variants). You'll also get the Shadow-Spider Suit (that includes three color variants) and the Web Grabber gadget. And as an added bonus, you get +3 Skill Points.
What we like about Marvel Spider-Man 2: Launch Edition: The game will feature impressive, 4K visuals with vibrant environments, along with 3D spatial audio that will make the game look and sound immersive. The near-instant character switching will be a key tool to help you defeat the enemies.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
Release date: November 10, 2023 | Genre: Shooter / Military Simulation | Rating: M
As you'd expect from a game in the Call of Duty franchise, Modern Warfare III offers non-stop action, plenty of violence and impressive graphics that are detailed and look multi-dimensional.
This is the direct sequel to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, so Captain Price and Task Force 141 will continue to be challenged by war criminal Vladimire Makarov.
In addition to familiar campaign missions, Modern Warfare III introduces open combat missions that provide more gameplay options. There are numerous new multiplayer maps, but you have access to 16 launch maps from the original Modern Warfare II, modernized with new modes and gameplay features. There are also more than a dozen core 6v6 maps, a new Ground War map, plus a new and open World Zombies map. Here, you'll team up with other squads to fight a seamlessly endless horde of killer zombies.
Some features of this game will require an online subscription.
What we like about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III: While combining a ton of new features with even more detailed and lifelike graphics, this game offers new challenges and a way to experience maps from past games in new ways.
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Release date: December 7, 2023 | Genre: Fantasy/Adventure | Rating: Pending
Pack your virtual bags, because you're about to embark on a journey to see the epic wonders of the never-before-seen continent of Pandora.
You'll take on the role of Na'vi. But don't worry, you won't be alone on this adventure. You'll be joined by your personal banshee who will provide a much-needed edge when you engage in aerial combat and need to travel great distances across the Western Frontier.
While based on the movie franchise, in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, expect to embark on new adventures, see new locations (that are part of this living and open world), meet new friends and encounter new enemies that expand on the movie's lore. Like the movie, this game is visually beautiful.
What we like about Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora: When you pre-order the game from Amazon, you'll receive the exclusive Sarentu Hunter Equipment Pack, which includes one unique weapon and one character gear set.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge Anniversary Edition
Release date: December 15, 2023 | Genre: Cartoon-like martial arts fighting | Rating: E
This special anniversary edition includes the popular TMNT Shredder's Revenge game, plus the Dimension of Shellshock DLC. And in addition to the game itself, when you pre-order, you get Sprite stickers, an art booklet and a coupon for a free Pizza Hut Personal Pan Pizza -- a throwback to the Pizza Hut coupon old school fans will remember finding in their copy of TMNT 2 for the NES.
When it comes to the game play, however, you'll have access to two new fighters – Usagi Yojimbo and Karai. They'll be joining Casey Jones, April and Splinter, along with everyone's favorite heroes -- Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo. This means the game offers a total of nine playable characters.
Integrated into Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge Anniversary Edition, there's also a new Survival mode, which requires you to collect crystals, upgrade the character you're controlling and even mutate into popular enemies as the adventure crosses between dimensions.
What we like about Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge Anniversary Edition: Call your friends, because this game offers six player local and online multiplayer support. It's suitable for younger gamers (ages 10 and up).
Alone in the Dark
Release date: January 16, 2024 | Genre: Mystery/Horror | Rating: Pending
This version of Alone in the Dark takes gamers back into Derceto Manor to experience a new game that pays homage to the classic horror title from the 1990s. The psychological thriller promises chilling graphics, sound effects and an original soundtrack that will keep you on edge.
You'll need to rely on your courage and creativity, because ammunition will be scarce. Yet evil will be lurking behind every shadow and will present itself when you least expect it. This game is not for the lighthearted, so if you get scared easily, pick a different game. And definitely keep young children away from it.
What we like about Alone in the Dark: You can experience the game from either Emily Hardwood or Edward Carnby's perspective, offering multiple ways to experience the storyline.
Takken 8
Release date: January 25, 2024 | Genre: 3D Fighting | Rating: Pending
So far, the Tekken game series has sold more than 55 million copies worldwide. It's also an arcade mega-hit. Chances are, this latest addition to the franchise will be an overnight success.
If you've been gaming under a rock since 1994, Tekken is the best known 3D fighting game. The latest version will offer the same level of challenge as its predecessors, but with a new and optional control scheme for those new to the series. It will offer an easier and more accessible way to experience this high-intensity game for the first time.
You'll be able to play your choice of 32 fighters. Expect more aggressive gameplay than before and better, next-gen visuals.
The story continues to follow the tragic saga of the Mishima and Kazama bloodlines, with world-shaking father-son grudge matches. This game kicks off after Kazuya has defeated his father using the forces of G Corporation. To discover what happens next, pre-order Takken 8 now and be among the first to experience it at the start of 2024.
What we like about Tekken 8: When you pre-order this game, you get the Paul Phoenix Avatar Costume and the Mokujin and Tetsujin PS Exclusive Avatar Skins.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Release date: February 29, 2024 | Genre: Role Playing Game | Rating: Pending
The next chapter in Square Enix's Final Fantasy VII remake project, Final Fantasy VIII Rebirth continues the story of Cloud Strife from the point he leaves the city of Midgar through the infamous scene with Aerith in the Forgotten Capital.
You'll experience the classic story in new ways, with new unexpected meta twists. The game features a few new and classic characters, but continues to require strategic thinking and teamwork to win battles and overcome obstacles.
Also included within the game is a never-before-seen standalone adventure, entitled Walls of Fate. Beautifully detailed graphics, a cinematic soundtrack and plenty of action sequences will make Final Fantasy VII Rebirth a game all fans of this franchise, as well as newcomers to it, will want to experience firsthand.
What we like about Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: This Amazon-exclusive edition includes a special controller skin that features Cloud and Sephiroth. This skin provides full coverage, without button or sensor interference. In addition, when you pre-order the game, you get to unlock the Midgar Bangle Mk. II Armor (a bracelet worn by travelers leaving Midgar).
How does pre-ordering a PS5 game work?
Just about any retailer that sells PlayStation 5 games, including Amazon, accepts pre-orders for games that are not yet released. When you preorder a game, you purchase it in advance of its release with the understanding that on the day of it's official release, you'll be among the very first to receive it. In some cases, specific sellers, like Amazon, get to sell exclusive versions of a game, so by buying it in advance, you get one or more special perks.
What's the benefit of pre-ordering a PS5 game?
The main benefit is that as soon as the PS5 game is officially released, having pre-ordered it in advance, you'll be among the very first to get your hands on a copy, so you can play it before most people. You'll also avoid the disappointment of having a game sell out before you can buy it.
If you buy the digital edition of a game, it will unlock the moment the game is officially released. However, many game publishers sell special editions of a game before its release that includes some type of exclusive bonus content or early-access that will be available in advance of the official release date. It's this exclusive content or special perks that many gamers want.
Does pre-ordering a PS5 game save money?
Typically, no. You won't save money by pre-ordering a game, but you will benefit from exclusive, value-added perks that are only offered to people who pre-order the game.
How far in advance should I pre-order a PS5 game?
It doesn't typically matter how far in advance you preorder a game. However, when a game publisher creates a special, limited edition physical version of a game, once those limited edition copies are sold out, they're gone. This typically happens early in the pre-order period -- if you wait until release day, it's already too late.
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