September was home to one of the most hyped up and anticipated titles of the year. Bungie’s epic came early in the month, with few other games daring to follow up with a close release. We did manage to put together a list of which games in September you must play, as well as which made our September 2014 Game of the Month.
What was your top game that released in September? Did it make our list of must play titles? The fall season is bringing a slew of new games to us in October, so be sure to check back on November 1st for October’s Game of the Month.
Note that scores do not necessarily guarantee a nominee or a winner, as different reviewers may give differing opinions. Nominees and winners are chosen via a discussion among the entire PSLS staff.
September 2014 Must Play Gallery
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September 2014 Must-Play Gallery
Destiny may have released this month, but were you aware there were some other games that released in September? Find out what we think you ought to be playing and which game gets our Game of the Month award.
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Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair
Danganronpa 2 is an excellent follow up to the first game, and a must buy Vita title. For anyone that enjoys an incredible murder mystery and can manage to make their way through a visual novel style of game, Goodbye Despair should already be in your Vita catalog. Read our full review here.
"Danganronpa 2 is a masterful piece of dark mystery storytelling, with a focus on exploring morally ambiguous facets of the psyche. Each trial will drive you to the realization that despair and hope are not divergent paths, but rather a single path that shares this duality."
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Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution
The next game in the Naruto series gives us a game that is light on story but heavy on gameplay features. Our review lists it as a very deep game for anyone not looking for story, but excited for fast-paced fun combat, and a slew of game modes. Read our full review here.
"Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution will feel a bit dull for those who are looking for a heavily storied experience but it should not be overlooked simply for the fact that it isn’t a full fledged Naruto story. What it lacks in story it makes up for in frenetic 4-player combat and a whole slew of modes and features to keep you busy."
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Minecraft PS4 Edition
Even though Microsoft recently bought Mojang, we still got Minecraft on the PS4 this month, and it is still as amazing and expansive as ever. If you love to have an open-ended sandbox to play and build in, then Minecraft is a game you probably shouldn't be missing. Read our full review here.
"Minecraft PS4 Edition is a tried-and-true game in a solid console format. Couch co-op is extremely fun and easy to jump into – it’s like the video game version of the perfect playground."
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Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
For another game in the Persona 4 saga, our reviewer couldn't find a single thing wrong with the game except that Persona 5 isn't here yet. He even didn't mind the fact that it's a fighting game! Read our full review here.
"As someone who is probably the farthest thing from a fighting game fan, I was surprised with just how much I enjoyed Persona 4 Arena Ultimax. It attempts to find a middle ground for hardcore and casual fighters, and for the most part it succeeds. With an interesting story, lots of character choices, and an inviting combat system, there is something here for everyone."
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Sherlock Holmes: Crimes and Punishments
A game based on a century old literary work could easily be overlooked, but it really shouldn't be. Sherlock Holmes is an excellent investigative mystery title that puts you into the shoes and mind of the great detective. Filled with plenty of nuances to the Holmes lore, fans and newcomers to Sherlock's world are both sure to enjoy this game. Read our full review here.
"My time as Holmes was extremely exciting, fun, and immersive, and I was impressed with how long it lasted. Every case had some new gameplay element introduced, like getting to play as Holmes’ hound Toby to follow a scent trail. Each character was beautiful in detail, but not in animation, and each case elegantly came to an end while Holmes’ life went on to the next one, and I was happy to be a part of each and every moment."
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Velocity 2X
Combining both top-down ship shooter mechanics with fast paced side-scrolling sections, Velocity 2X sets a new bar for what it means to be a fast paced game. Mix in an intriguing story and you have a recipe for a game that will have you sitting for hours on your PS4, while easily played in short bursts on your Vita. Read our full review here.
"The joy of running through the entire level, shooting and phasing perfectly, without stopping to catch my breath, was immense. You’d think the scenes between each level would be a nice rest, but they were like a fleet-footed jig in between mad break-dancing. They did a great job at smoothly connecting the gameplay parts of the game to the story parts so it doesn’t seem forced or unrealistic. Velocity 2X is a game that, once you play a bit, guides you into a sort of rhythm. Much like music games, it’s a very seductive effect."
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Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor
Built on core elements of games like Assassin's Creed and the Batman Arkham series, Shadow of Mordor takes these mechanics and adds its own spin with a unique play on enemy grouping and hierarchy. Also, it's a mature game based on Tolkien's Middle-Earth... how can you go wrong? Read our full review here.
"Overall, there is simply too much to cover in Shadow of Mordor and this is one of its greatest assets. As you progress through the game things expand exponentially, giving more room to play around in, but on a learning curve that is paced out perfectly. Fantasy fans will probably owe it to themselves to give Shadow of Mordor a shot, especially if they are fans of Tolkien’s work."
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The September 2014 Game of the Month is...
While a few great games that we feel you must play released in September, there is one in particular that captured most of our time and attention. That game is...
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Destiny
Despite its mixed reception by both fans and critics alike, the PlayStation LifeStyle staff has spent well over 300 hours collectively in Destiny since release. A couple members of the staff are approaching 100 hours each. Because of the polish that has gone into the game, Bungie's constant support of the game, and the inevitable draw that has kept us coming back for more, wins our Game of the Month award for September 2014. Read our full review here.
"While it is not the story, there is a certain pull to Destiny that keeps me coming back for more. Bungie have created something special that I think we will see continue to bloom in their persistent support of the game. Destiny is organic in presentation and execution, and like going on a hike on your favorite trail, is never quite the same each time you play. I am still having a ton of fun in this world and can see myself getting many more hours of fun in the weeks and months to come."
