This is the month of sports games, Madden a few short weeks ago, now NHL, NBA, and FIFA, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some other really good games out in September. With most triple-A games coming out in the approaching holiday months here are some games to hold you over until then. Now mind you as a lover of sports in general, I always love this time of year because of the start of the seasons, but the games make it even better, so let’s look at some of the upcoming titles that are very popular.
NHL 17
The latest installment in EA Sports hockey franchise comes with a number of upgrades from the previous years. With game modes added like Draft Champions and more options for Franchise, Be a Pro and Hockey Ultimate Team, NHL17 is a step up on the current gen consoles. This game has much more fluid movements on the ice for skaters and puck pickup is much easier. Another new part of the game is net battles, to redirect a puck or get a defender out of the goalie’s face. Along with new graphics, this is a definite improvement on last year. Something with yearly games like NHL, Madden and FIFA is that they are never leaps and bounds better than the year before. The game is buggy in spots, but this is the case with any game these days. Where NHL 17 really shines is in EASHL, the online game mode that allows you to make your own team and play in 6 vs. 6 games against other people. This game mode got a lot of detail added to it. Customizable jerseys, arenas, and even your own celebrations. It really makes you feel like you’re in control of your own team and player, not to mention its always more fun with friends. Overall if you’re a fan of hockey, it’s a must buy, other than that if you’re looking for a fun sports game I suggest NHL 17.
BioShock Collection
Would you kindly share this article? If you’ve played BioShock in the past, then you know how much of a masterpiece they already are. BioShock 1, Bioshock 2 and Bioshock Infinite are now on both PS4 and Xbox One with an all new look. These three games all come in a collection for $60 which is a great deal, if you’ve played them in the past or not. If you haven’t played these games, you’re in for a very nice treat in the worlds of Rapture and Columbia. For returning players, this is not only great nostalgia but also your chance to play all the DLC if you never did with the original games. There isn’t too much to be said about the game since it is a reskin, but not much has to be said. The original Bioshock is almost 10 years old and is a game today that still is a masterpiece but the other two are just as good. If you like video games in general, I highly recommend this remastered collection.
Destiny: Rise of Iron
The game that is slated to be a 10-year epic in the making has revealed its year 3 expansion. Rise of Iron is Destiny’s newest addition of content after a year drought from the Taken King. This has been much anticipated and is a breath of fresh air with new maps, weapons, armor, and story missions. The expansion introduces the new social area as well, Felwinters Peak, where the Iron Lords use to reside but have long since been absent. All but one Iron Lord is left, Lord Saladin, who has been a frequent visitor to the Tower. The new big bad in the expansion is called SIVA, a nanotechnology that the Fallen (alien species) have gotten ahold of and plan to destroy the last city. It is up to you to stop them and restore the Iron Lords to their former glory and discover what happen the Lords of old. When it comes to multiplayer, Rise of Iron is finally introducing private matches to Destiny. Want to just have fun with your friends? Now you can with this, finally becoming an option after three years. Overall this is a great expansion for Destiny and if you own the game or are looking to just get introduced to the world, this is the best time since the sequel is rumored for next year.
NBA 2K17
Basketball is back! With the latest installment in the basketball series, 2K is bringing you the best game they’ve put forward yet. Visually looks better, the gameplay feels more polished, and even the commentary feels fresh. We’ll start with something 2K did that I haven’t seen before. They released a game titled, “NBA 2K17: The Prelude”. This was a free download that included trophies/achievements and it allowed you to play as a player in college getting ready to be drafted. Best of all it was free, it allowed you to get a feel for the game that was coming and added a level of depth to the MyCareer mode which is one of the biggest selling points of the game. The MyCareer mode also got a big change, as it now has an actor playing alongside you in this mode, Michael B. Jordan, the guy from Creed. Flashy yes, but pretty cool none the less. Overall this is another yearly sports game just like NHL mentioned earlier, but this game feels good to play and look forward to putting some hours into it. Plus is has an amazing soundtrack to boot.
First up is the annual EA Sports release of their flagship titles. The release of Madden is coming first on 8/25, shortly followed by the others. You are sure to see some improved features, updated graphics, and likely the best authenticity in the business. If you are looking for originality however you are looking in the wrong place. EA has found the magic potion of producing essentially the same game for the last 10 years and still making a killing every year. The replay value is what you can bank on when you play one of these new titles. There will be plenty of people slaving over these games for hours, no months, just to live out their dreams of bringing home a championship. Available on Xbox, Playstation, and PC.
Gears has been remastered for the Xbox one! The landmark original Gears of War has been completely rebuilt from the 
Arguably one of the most anticipated games of the fall season. LEGO Dimensions is a truly unique video game, for kids and adults (big kids). For the first time ever, characters from all over the LEGO universe are joining forces to battle in worlds outside their own. Here’s How It Works: 1. Build your mini figure heroes 2. Fire up the game
The triumphant return of the beloved Rockband is almost upon us. It’s been 5 years since gamers have been able to put down their controllers and lay down some sick rifs to their favorite tunes. The ultimate party game has returned with a brand new list of bands that are sure to keep you jamming. The Fender inspired guitar bundle is $129 and the full bundle including guitar, drums, and microphone are gonna set you back $249. Well worth the investment if it will be anything like its predecessors. Available 10/6 on Xbox and Playstation.