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The Best Games for Summer 2016

WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J.–After an entire semester of hard work, we’ll finally be getting four months of sweet free time. Many of us plan to spend it relaxing and playing video games, so it’s a great time for some new titles to come out. Here are a few games to look forward to during the summer months. Luckily, regardless of the console you choose, there’s something for you.
“Mirror’s Edge: Catalyst”

Photo courtesy of Mirror’s Edge

This popular platformer is on its way back, so get ready to start running again! “Mirror’s Edge: Catalyst” will be released on June 7 for the PS4, Xbox One, and PC. The game will serve as a reboot to the original “Mirror’s Edge”–one of EA’s better games–that was released back in 2008.

The first person perspective game features a strong female protagonist in Faith Connors, a runner who delivers messages for revolutionary groups while avoiding government surveillance. EA held a beta during the weekend, and with a compelling story and improved combat, things seem to be looking good so far.

“Kirby: Planet Robobot”

Photo courtesy of IGDB

The pink puffball is back–and this time he’s got a mech suit! Kirby’s newest adventure begins on June 10 for the Nintendo 3DS. A group of robotic invaders known as Haltmann Works Company set out to mechanize Planet Popstar, so it’s up to Kirby to stop the robots by controlling a bigger robot that happens to closely resemble him.
In addition to the traditional inhaling, inside his Robobot Armor Kirby can scan enemies to copy their moves, allowing him to shape-shift into different modes. Launching alongside the game is a line of awesome new Amiibo that can be tapped in for other additional features.
“Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE”
Photo courtesy of APP Trigger

“Shin Megami Tensei” meets “Fire Emblem” in this exciting new RPG, where it’s your chance to save the world and get famous doing it. The story takes place in present-day Tokyo, where evil spirits known as Mirages are attacking people and stealing their creative energy.
Everything in the game is entertainment-themed, from the costumes to the attacks. The music is great, with new original songs by Avex, and you get to be friends with “Fire Emblem” characters. The game is ridiculously over-the-top with its fan-service, but it’ll be fun nonetheless. The only question is: do you have what it takes to become a star? Find out when the game launches on the Wii U on June 24.
“Monster Hunter Generations”
Photo courtesy of Game Ranx

The “Monster Hunter” franchise has increased in popularity over the years, having sold over 36 million units worldwide to become one of Capcom’s best-selling series. This upcoming installment promises to be the most customizable “Monster Hunter” experience to date. Nintendo recently announced it would be released on July 15.
Another action RPG, “Monster Hunter Generations” will launch on the 3DS as well, introducing new gameplay mechanics such as Styles (Aerial and Striker), and Hunter Arts with 14 different types of weapons.
“Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse”
Photo courtesy of Legion de Jugadores

This game debuted as the top seller in Japan back in February. While there is the crossover between “Shin Megami Tensei” and “Fire Emblem” launching before, the next sequel in this popular RPG series takes players to post-apocalyptic Tokyo where an unknown catastrophe leaves the place in ruins and the fate of humankind in the balance.
The protagonist, a lone hunter, dies early on but is brought back to life in exchange for serving the god who restored him. Also, there are demons (450 of them). Look for the game on the 3DS this summer as well.
Several great games have already launched earlier this semester, but the fun will continue with the arrival of these highly anticipated titles. Dust off your controllers – and prepare your wallets.