8 Big October Games We've Already Played: Our Early Verdicts

We've gone hands-on with eight of October's biggest releases, from Phantom Blade Zero to Planet Zoo 2. Here's what we think so far.

Ever wonder what it's like to play the biggest games of October before they even come out? We've been lucky enough to go hands-on with eight of the month's most anticipated titles, and we're here to give you the lowdown. From hardcore action to cozy crafting, there's something for everyone. So, what can you expect from these upcoming blockbusters? Let's dive in.

First up, Phantom Blade Zero (out October 29) is shaping up to be a brutal but fair action game. With three difficulty options, even the default setting kicked our butts—but in a good way. It never felt cheap, just demanding. After an hour, we were ten times better than when we started. That sense of achievement is rare, and if the rest of the game holds up, it could be one of the greats.

Castlevania: Belmont's Curse (October 15) absolutely nailed it for us. The art and animation are gorgeous, combat is dynamic with plenty of playstyle options thanks to weapons, Arcana, and relics, and exploration is rewarding with secrets tucked into every corner of Paris. Bosses offered a solid challenge without being overwhelming early on. We had a blast.

Final Fantasy Resonance (October 22) might just have the most impressive HD-2D visuals we've ever seen. The way clouds drift and grass rustles makes the world feel alive, and your character fits right in—something HD-2D games sometimes struggle with. It's stunning, and we can't wait to see more.

Warhammer 40K: Boltgun 2 (October 14) takes the boomer shooter formula and evolves it. The original was a perfect match for Warhammer 40K, and the sequel dials up the scope with bigger environments and a larger character roster. It still has that blood-drenched '90s feel, but with fresh ideas. We only played a couple of levels, but we're hooked.

Emberville (October 27) is an ARPG with heart. Between skill trees, loot, and stat points, it appeals to hardcore ARPG fans, while its gathering and crafting systems could win over cozy game lovers. That rare crossover might make it the perfect game to share with a partner who prefers gentler games. We're intrigued.

Planet Zoo 2 (October 13) puts you right in the action—literally. Instead of a top-down view, you start in first-person, walking through the East African Rift Valley. That perspective shift changes everything, making the zoo feel more personal before you even place a building. It's a bold choice that paid off.

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort (October 22) brings back a classic: 100-pin bowling. The series hasn't changed much in 20 years, relying on simple motion controls, but that's part of its charm. The red pin is back, and we're glad. It's familiar, fun, and perfect for parties.

Finally, Stupid Never Dies (October 22) mixes roguelike progression with dungeon-crawling. Each run has a time limit, and you lose your level but keep loot. An XP multiplier helps you go deeper next time. It's a clever twist that keeps you coming back for more.

So, which of these October games are you most excited for? Will you be picking any up on day one? Let us know in the comments!