Hot Shots
[Update:Sony has now confirmed thatNeed for Speed HEAT, Granblue Fantasy: Versus, and TOEM are September’s PlayStation Plus Essential releases. The titles will be available to download from September 6.]
Released in the fall of 2019,Need for Speed HEATis the 24th title in Electronic Arts’ long-running racing series, and represents the final series entry developed by Ghost Games, before the franchise was returned to its veteran developer, Criterion Games, who continue to develop the series today.
Set against the backdrop of Miami stand-in Palm City,NFS HEATfeatures an open-plan city packed out with races, challenges, and objectives, while a story campaign sees the player attempt to climb the ranks of an underground racing collective known as The League.NFS HEATreceived middling praise from critics and players on release.
2020’sGranblue Fantasy: Versusis a 2.5D fighting spin-off set within the universe of cult RPG franchiseGranblue Fantasy.Developed by the tried and tested folks at Arc System Works,Granblue Fantasy: Versussees a charismatic and compelling, (as well as highly attractive), cast of characters battle it out in well-designed one-on-one fisticuffs.
Always facing an uphill battle due to the niche branding,GF:Vis assuredly a solid fighter, but unfortunately struggles in an online capacity due to its smaller community and lack of rollback netcode. It remains, however, an engaging, great-looking fighter with a small army of devoted players.
Made with passion and enthusiasm by independent outfit Something We Made,TOEM: A Photo Adventureis, as the title suggests, a thoroughly wholesome affair based on the concept of taking photos while exploring an ethereal fantasy mountainscape, meeting its denizens, and learning its legacy.
While on a pilgrimage to experience the titular “TOEM,” the player will encounter various characters and puzzles, all of which can be helped with the aid of some snap-happy camerawork. Available on PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch,TOEMreceived critical acclaim on release, even winning a BAFTA for Best Debut at the 2021 iteration of the awards.
