Walmart.com Parents Guide To Video Games Holiday 2016, Xbox

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FREE MAGAZINE FOR CUSTOMERS OF PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES VIDEO GAMES 101 EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW VIRTUAL REALITY THE FUTURE OF VIDEO GAMES? TOYS-TO-LIFE GAMES THE LATEST FROM SKYLANDERS AND LEGO DIMENSIONS FIND THE BEST GAMES FOR YOUR FAMILY OVER 100 GAMES REVIEWED INSIDE welcome PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEOGAMES PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Steve B. Harris EDITORIAL EDITOR Marc Camron ASSOCIATE EDITORS Mollie L Patterson Ray Carsillo Josh Harmon Victoria A.F. Camron FROM THE PUBLISHER THIS YEAR, GIVE THE PERFECT GIFT TO YOUR FAVORITE GAMER CONTRIBUTORS Matt Cabral David Jagneaux D ART DIRECTION Michael Hobbs Michael Stassus o you find video games confusing? Are names of the different consoles and genres foreign lingo to you? Today’s games present a challenge. Even if you grew up playing the NES, maybe you haven’t picked up a controller in a while. Walking through the game aisle can feel like entering a foreign land filled with otherworldly machines. In the United States, more than 150 million people play video games and their average age has climbed to 31. Additionally, 48 percent of those who play video games are now women. These statistics mean there’s a good chance you’ll be looking for hardware, games or accessories to give your loved ones during the approaching holiday season. But with so many consoles, accessories and games to choose from, you might need a little help deciding on the perfect gift. So we are pleased to present our fifth annual Parents Guide to Video Games. We hope to simplify the process of choosing the right product for the gamer in your life. You’ll find a primer to gaming to give you a quick lesson on the hobby and so you have what you need to make informed choices — even if you don’t know where to start. You’ll see on page 8 how the ESRB, the independent ratings board for video games, decides what games are appropriate for which age groups On page 12, we explain the latest gear, then detail which systems are now available. Don’t miss our feature story on PlayStation VR, for those who want in on the hottest new gaming trend. We also look at what’s new with LEGO Dimensions and Skylanders, the extremely popular toys-to-life games. Finally, the game directory, organized by those ESRB ratings for your convenience, starts on page 32. You’ll find all the information you need before you hit your local Walmart to choose the games for your friends and family. With the fruits of our research in this guide, you can concentrate on filling your cart. For everyone on your holiday list, you can be sure you are choosing the right gifts for them! © Copyright 2015, EGM Media, LLC, all rights reserved. Walmart Parents Guide To Videogames (ISSN 2324-965X) is published annually by EGM Media, LLC, 29800 Agoura Road, Suite 103, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. The editors and the publisher are not responsible for unsolicited materials. Without limiting the rights under copyrights reserved herein, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise), without the prior written notice of EGM Media, LLC. The Walmart names and logos and all related product and service names, design marks and slogans are the trademarks or service marks of Walmart Stores, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective companies. All materials listed in this magazine are subject to manufacturers’ change and the publisher assumes no responsibility for such changes. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of EGM Media, LLC is prohibited. For permission to reuse material from our publications please contact EGM Media, LLC’s Rights and Permissions Manager at [email protected]. 04 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES EGM MEDIA, LLC 8840 Wilshire Blvd. Third Floor Beverly Hills, CA 90211 www.egmmediagroup.com PRESIDENT Steve Harris ASST TO THE PRESIDENT Angela Adams CIRCULATION CONSULTANT Ron Sklon LEGAL Bob Wyman ACCOUNTING Oz Abregov SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES [email protected] ADVERTISING ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Jeff Eisenberg ADVERTISING MANAGER Elizabeth Scott FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 800-875-6298, ext. 120 [email protected] COVER IMAGE PHOTO CREDIT Christopher Futcher / GETTY IMAGES PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES contents 06 LEGO DIMENSIONS 04 WELCOME 30 PLAYSTATION VR 08 UNDERSTANDING ESRB RATINGS 32 GAME DIRECTORY 12 VIDEO GAMES 101 EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW 36 GAME DIRECTORY 26 LEGO DIMENSIONS 40 GAME DIRECTORY 28 SKYLANDERS IMAGINATORS 46 GAME DIRECTORY WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES FOR 6 YEARS OLD AND UP FOR 10 YEARS OLD AND UP FOR 13 YEARS OLD AND UP FOR 17 YEARS OLD AND UP understanding esrb ratings WHAT ARE ESRB RATINGS? The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a nonprofit, self-regulatory body that assigns age and content ratings for video games and mobile apps so parents can make informed choices as to which are suitable for their children and family. As part of its self-regulatory role for the video game industry, the ESRB also enforces industryadopted advertising guidelines and helps ensure responsible online privacy practices among members of its ESRB Privacy Certified program. The ESRB was established in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). EARLY CHILDHOOD Content is intended for young children. EVERYONE Content is generally suitable for all ages. May contain minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence and/or infrequent use of mild language. EVERYONE 10+ Content is generally suitable for ages 10 and up. May contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/or minimal suggestive themes. TEEN Content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. May contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/or infrequent use of strong language. MATURE Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language. ADULTS ONLY Content suitable only for adults ages 18 and up. May include prolonged scenes of intense violence, graphic sexual content and/or gambling with real currency. RATING PENDING Not yet assigned a final ESRB rating. Appears only in advertising, marketing and promotional materials related to a game that is expected to carry an ESRB rating, and should be replaced by a game’s rating once it has been assigned. The ESRB rating icons are registered trademarks of the Entertainment Software Association. 08 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES ESRB CONTENT DESCRIPTORS: ALCOHOL REFERENCE: Reference to and/or images of alcoholic beverages ANIMATED BLOOD: Discolored and/or unrealistic depictions of blood BLOOD: Depictions of blood BLOOD AND GORE: Depictions of blood or the mutilation of body parts CARTOON VIOLENCE: Violent actions involving cartoonlike situations and characters. May include violence where a character is unharmed after it has been inflicted COMIC MISCHIEF: Depictions or dialogue involving slapstick or suggestive humor CRUDE HUMOR: Depictions or dialogue involving vulgar antics, including “bathroom” humor DRUG REFERENCE: Reference to and/ or images of illegal drugs FANTASY VIOLENCE: Violent actions of a fantasy nature, involving human or non-human characters in situations easily distinguishable from real life Visit INTENSE VIOLENCE: Graphic and realistic-looking depictions of physical conflict. May involve extreme and/or realistic blood, gore, weapons and depictions of human injury and death SIMULATED GAMBLING: Player can gamble without betting or wagering real cash or currency LANGUAGE: Mild to moderate use of profanity STRONG LYRICS: Explicit and/or frequent references to profanity, sex, violence, alcohol or drug use in music LYRICS: Mild references to profanity, sexuality, violence, alcohol or drug use in music MATURE HUMOR: Depictions or dialogue involving “adult” humor, including sexual references NUDITY: Graphic or prolonged depictions of nudity PARTIAL NUDITY: Brief and/or mild depictions of nudity REAL GAMBLING: Player can gamble, including betting or wagering real cash or currency STRONG LANGUAGE: Explicit and/or frequent use of profanity STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT: Explicit and/or frequent depictions of sexual behavior, possibly including nudity SUGGESTIVE THEMES: Mild provocative references or materials TOBACCO REFERENCE: Reference to and/or images of tobacco products USE OF ALCOHOL: The consumption of alcoholic beverages USE OF DRUGS: The consumption or use of illegal drugs SEXUAL CONTENT: Non-explicit depictions of sexual behavior, possibly including partial nudity USE OF TOBACCO: The consumption of tobacco products SEXUAL THEMES: References to sex or sexuality VIOLENCE: Scenes involving aggressive conflict. May contain bloodless dismemberment SEXUAL VIOLENCE: Depictions of rape or other violent sexual acts VIOLENT REFERENCES: References to violent acts WWW.ESRB.ORG for more information feature story g a e o vid Everything you always wanted to know about video games hile it may be second nature for even the youngest of gaming enthusiasts, navigating the waters of interactive entertainment is a daunting task for many parents. Even the sharpest shoppers can be overwhelmed when they are looking for those special gifts. With everything on your children’s wish lists — and all the terms that sound as if are from a foreign language — finding the right game or add-on can be a challenge. We’ve put together a crash course on all things gaming to help you navigate these pixelated problems and make the right choices for your family! Across the following pages you’ll find everything you need to know to pick games and gear like a pro, including profiles of all the systems (including the new ones), key accessories and much more. With a little luck, you might even teach your kids a thing or two! 12 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES e m s: CONTROLLERS AND THIRD-PARTY CONTROLLERS For families who like gaming together, the major console manufacturers all provide official controllers that make it possible for multiple people to play at the same time. But for those players who want a more customized experience, the console makers license aftermarket controllers that are manufactured and sold by third-party companies. Compared to their official counterparts, these controllers usually provide a much wider range of options, such as ergonomic grips and built-in cooling fans, and a far more robust set of decorative designs to choose from. Some third-party controllers even include special features to give elite gamers an advantage over the competition, such as precision triggers, adjustable thumbsticks and rapid-fire buttons that allow players to pull off in-game actions at superhuman speeds. SPECIALTY CONTROLLERS Specialty controllers provide unique interfaces to make playing specific genres of games more enjoyable or authentic. The three most common examples are arcade sticks, racing wheels and flight sticks. Arcade sticks are bulky, sturdy controllers designed to replicate the look and feel of classic coin-op titles of the ’80s and ’90s. They’re most commonly used for fighting games because they allow for more precise joystick movements and easier access to the great number of button combinations needed to master one-on-one battles. Flight sticks are special joysticks that offer a great deal of precision, as well as specialty throttle switches and buttons designed to mimic the controls used in flight simulators. Racing wheels simulate the experience of driving a car with a replica steering wheel, which is sometimes accompanied by a set of pedals and a gearbox. As their name implies, these controllers are used exclusively for racing games. VR Headsets allow you to play immersive VR games on your console or PC. If you’re in the market for a specialty controller, be certain you have games that will be enhanced by the type of interface you purchase. GAMING HEADSETS Unlike standard audio earmuffs, gaming headsets feature a pair of headphones and a built-in microphone that enables players to communicate while playing online. Many gaming headsets allow television audio to feed directly into the headphones for a more immersive experience — not to mention keeping the external sound level to a minimum. Headsets range in price from relatively basic budget setups to more expensive models that offer the enhanced features you’d expect to find in high-end audio equipment, such as surround sound and built-in audio mixers. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 13 feature story TECHNICALLY SPEAKING Here’s a list of common phrases, abbreviations and terminologies you’ll need to know to understand today’s gaming landscape. Achievements/Trophies: Awards given to players for accomplishing specific in-game tasks and challenges. Known as Achievements on the Xbox systems and Trophies on the PS3 and PS4. Action: A game genre that forces players to put handeye coordination to the test; action-game elements can often bleed into other genres. Adventure: An interactive story in which the protagonist must complete various objectives and explore the world to move the narrative forward. AI (Artificial Intelligence): The computer-controlled actions of the adversaries a player faces during a game. Cutscene: A movie-like cinematic that removes control from the players to progress the story. DLC: Acronym for downloadable content — additional levels, costumes, or abilities — that can be purchased online to add elements to an existing game. Fighting: This type of game typically pits one player directly against another in a test of various martial arts using button presses that correspond to punches, kicks and special moves. FPS: Acronym for first-person shooter. Typically involves gameplay built around gunfire and experiencing the action through the eyes of the protagonist. Leaderboard: Keeps track of various records the player amasses in each game and compares them to other players around the world. 14 Mini-game: A simplistic, smaller game within a larger experience. MMO: Acronym for massively multiplayer online game. Inserts players into a large world with dozens of other players at once via the Internet. NPC: Acronym for non-player character. Characters that players interact with but don’t directly control. Open World: An expansive world that players can interact with in many ways to accomplish objectives of their own choosing. Platformer: A game type that requires players to jump frequently to and from platforms of various size and complexity in order to advance. Puzzler: A genre that requires critical-thinking skills to solve a variety puzzles and advance through levels. Quicktime Event: Interactive segments usually placed within cutscenes that require timed button presses to advance and resume normal gameplay. Racing: A genre that puts players behind the wheel of a vehicle. The first player to cross the finish line wins. RPG: Acronym for role-playing game. Players are immersed in a fictional world and often control several characters in a party. VR (Virtual Reality): A type of game that immerses you in a 360-degree, 3D game world. Requires an additional VR headset compatible with your console or PC. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES MOTION CONTROLLERS Motion controllers are special devices that recognize gestures in addition to — or in place of — buttons to control a game, translating your movements into onscreen action. The Wii U comes with a sensor bar that tracks motion control with both the Wii U Game Pad and the Wii Remote Controllers. For the Xbox One (and the older Xbox 360) users will find the Kinect 2.0 peripheral (pictured above). This allows for gesture control with some games, as well as general control of the system through both gesture and voice. Sony’s Move uses both a PlayStation camera and a dedicated wand controller to track your movements. The company has incorporated this with their new VR system, which also uses the cammera, to make for a more immersive experience. The move works with both the PS3 and PS4, but only the latter supports the PlayStation VR. MEMORY CARDS Memory cards are portable storage devices that plug into a gaming console so players can save their progress. As nearly all home consoles now come with built-in hard drives and support standard USB thumb drives, these cards aren’t as important as they once were. On handhelds, however, they remain very important, and dedicated gamers likely will want to expand the available memory. This is especially true with Nintendo’s 3DS system. Though it comes with a 4GB Micro SD card, owners will want to upgrade that to accomodate digital content and downloaded games. STRATEGY GUIDES Strategy guides are special books that help players complete specific games. Publishers work closely with game developers to learn about secrets and strategies, then create an exhaustive step-by-step manual loaded with detailed playing tips for each game mode. Strategy guides often include chapters on the basics of gameplay as well as advanced tactics that may not be immediately clear to beginners. If a game has a single-player campaign, the guides often feature detailed walkthroughs on how to beat each level for users to reference if they get stuck. In addition, guides frequently focus on how to uncover hidden secrets, allowing readers to discover things they might have otherwise missed. Strategy guides are a great companion to any game purchase. game directory feature story KNOW THE GAME GAME MODES: Multiplayer More than ever before, multiplayer has become a critical part of the gaming landscape. The replay value of a title is often tied to its multiplayer modes. These “games within the game” include such favorites as Capture the Flag (in which one team tries to bring a flag back to their base), Deathmatch (one group tries to completely annihilate the other) and King of the Hill (in which one team tries to hold a point on a map longer than the competitors can). In addition to online play, certain games also offer local multiplayer, which enables two or more players to compete at the same time, on the same TV with separate controllers. Regardless of the specific format, multiplayer is an important element for many gamers. GAME MODES: Campaign Single-Player Most games offer a campaign or single-player experience as the primary game mode. Single-player pits the gamer against computer-controlled adversaries. In a story that drives the action, players in single-player mode control a protagonist. Usually the goal is to complete a specific set of objectives to advance the narrative. To achieve these objectives, players are bestowed with, or earn through the successful completion of missions, a set of special skills or abilities that are assigned to different controller buttons. If a game with single-player includes a multiplayer or co-op experience, these other modes sometimes incorporate the single-player themes. Some games with notable single-player experiences include the Legend of Zelda franchise, BioShock Infinite, Watch_Dogs, the Assassin’s Creed games and the Batman: Arkham series. GAME MODES: Campaign Co-op For gamers who like to play with their friends but would rather not participate in the natural competition of multiplayer, some titles feature a cooperative or co-op mode. Much like multiplayer, you can play either locally with a friend in the same room or online with a gamer who is sitting halfway around the world. Unlike multiplayer, some co-op modes allow you to experience the single-player story with your buddies so they are playing along with you, while others feature an extra batch of levels designed exclusively for when you want to play with your friends. As a result, the storyline of the main campaign you’ve been playing solo is not altered. If the game features local co-op, certain titles provide a splitscreen interface that allows both players to see the world through their characters’ eyes. Some games with notable co-op experiences include the Gears of War franchise, the Saints Row series and the Borderlands games. 16 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES ONLINE SUBSCRIPTIONS Sony and Microsoft offer paid online 12-month-subscription services for their respective gaming consoles, both with very similar features. Microsoft’s subscription service, Xbox Live Gold, allows gamers to get even more out of Xbox One and Xbox 360 titles that include multiplayer or co-op modes. In addition, a Gold subscription includes free downloadable games and enables the use of the system’s Internet-connected applications, including social-media and streaming-video services. Sony’s online service, PlayStation Plus, offers the same benefits as Xbox Live. However, to play online with the PlayStation 4, a PlayStation Plus subscription is required; it’s free to play online games on the PS3. Both companies offer access to last- and new-generation systems with the purchase of a single subscription. So if you have these services on Xbox 360 or PS3, your upgraded consoles are covered. Online subscriptions are an important part of today’s gaming scene, so don’t be surprised if you get a request for access to these services. REDEMPTION CARDS Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft all offer prepaid cards that gamers can use to purchase content from their digital storefronts. The cards work in much the same way as a gift card for a retail outlet or restaurant. They are available in-store and typically activated at checkout. The credit can be used only for the designated console for which it was purchased. Once you add funds to your account, using the special code on the back of the card, the player can spend that amount on just about anything available in that console’s online store, including downloadable games, DLC, videos and more. DIGITAL DOWNLOAD CARDS Want to make sure a copy of the hottest new game will be there when you want it? Walmart offers Digital Download Cards for some titles that provide a code to download a copy of the game, sometimes before the game is even released! Just download your title and wait for 12:01 a.m. on release day for it to be playable. It’s a convenient way to get your game and helps you avoid having the new title you’re waiting for being soldout on launch day. ADVERTISEMENT HOLIDAY BUYERS GUIDE New Xbox One Wireless Controller Experience the enhanced comfort and feel of the new Xbox Wireless Controller, featuring a sleek, streamlined design and textured grip. Enjoy custom button mapping and up to twice the wireless range. Plug in any compatible headset with the 3.5mm stereo headset jack. And with Bluetooth® technology, play your favorite games on Windows 10 PCs and tablets. *Button mapping available via Xbox Accessories app for Xbox One and Windows 10. Range compared to previous controllers, using the Xbox One S console. Operating system updates may be required. Go to xbox.com/ xboxone/controller-OS for more information. Storm Grey Xbox One Pre-order the Xbox One S Battlefield™ 1 Special Edition Bundle (500GB), featuring a storm grey console and controller, 4K Blu-ray™, 4K video streaming, High Dynamic Range, a full game download of Battlefield™ 1. Discover a world at war through an adventure-filled campaign, or join in epic multiplayer battles with up to 64 players on Xbox Live. Plus, purchase the Storm Grey Xbox One at Walmart stores or online at walmart.com and you’ll receive 5 free VUDU movies plus a bonus offer of 5 additional movies for only $5.00 (terms and conditions apply)!” Nyko Charge Block Plantronics RIG 400HS CAMO Available for Xbox One® Nyko’s Charge Block is the most versatile controller charger available for Xbox One®. Featuring a unique modular design, Charge Block allows up to 4* blocks to be connected together from both the Xbox One® and PS4™ platforms, creating a truly custom charging solution in a single unit. Utilizing a rechargeable battery pack and replacement cover to allow for easy drop and charge, Charge Block is the ideal way to keep controllers charged for extended gaming sessions. Plantronics RIG headsets provide a perfect solution for those looking for an affordable upgrade their gaming headset to a more immersive experience. With the advanced technology Plantronics is known for, the RIG 400HS incorporates 40 mm high-sensitivity drivers to cover the full range of sound and provide deep and satisfying bass. In-line master volume and mute toggles keep the control at your fingertips, wihile the noise-cancelling mic makes sure everyone hears you loud and clear. Finally, the sound-isolating, cushioned designed is both stylish and extremely comfortable for hours of PlayStation 4 gaming. *USB 3.0 connection required to power more than 2 blocks Plantronics RIG 400HX CAMO Plantronics RIG headsets provide a perfect solution for those looking for an affordable upgrade their gaming headset to a more immersive experience. With the advanced technology Plantronics is known for, the RIG 400HX incorporates 40 mm high-sensitivity drivers to cover the full range of sound and provide deep and satisfying bass. In-line master volume and mute toggles keep the control at your fingertips, wihile the noise-cancelling mic makes sure everyone hears you loud and clear. Finally, the sound-isolating, cushioned designed is both stylish and extremely comfortable for hours of Xbox One gaming. * 4K streaming with select apps, see Xbox.com. HDR functionality available with supported games and TVs. After free month, EA Access requires paid subscription, sold separately; see www.ea.com/eaaccess for details. Xbox Live Gold (sold separately) required for online multiplayer and to access certain Vault title online features. Game download code inside. Game download from Xbox Live; ISP fees apply; significant storage required. Battlefield and Battlefield 1 are trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. or its subsidiaries. NO WEAPON, VEHICLE OR GEAR MANUFACTURER IS AFFILIATED WITH OR HAS SPONSORED OR ENDORSED THIS GAME. Conditions and restrictions apply. See www.battlefield.com/disclaimers for details. Xbox One Backward Compatibility feature works with select Xbox 360 games, see http://www.xbox.com/backcompat. Xbox Live and broadband internet required for initial download of game to console. VUDU movie offer good for pre-selected movies titles only, available while supplies last. Nyko Charge Block Nyko’s Charge Block is the most versatile controller charger available for PlayStation®4. Featuring a unique modular design, Charge Block allows up to 4* blocks to be connected together from both the Xbox One® and PS4™ platforms, creating a truly custom charging solution in a single unit. Utilizing Nyko’s patented dongle system to allow for easy drop and charge, Charge Block is the ideal way to keep controllers charged for extended gaming sessions. *USB 3.0 connection required to power more than 2 blocks ADVERTISEMENT PDP Rock Candy Controller Express yourself with your favorite color Rock Candy controller. Featuring colored polycarbonate shells, brilliant white accents, and only the essential components you need, these officially licensed controllers are built for fun. Perfect for gamers of all ages. Sony PlayStation 4 Slim The PlayStation®4 system. Now Starting at $299.99. The new slim PlayStation®4 opens the door to extraordinary journeys through immersive new gaming worlds and a deeply connected gaming community. Only on PlayStation You’ve come to the right place. Exclusive games take you on incredible journeys, from critically acclaimed indies to award-winning AAA hits like Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End™ Dual Shock 4 The DUALSHOCK®4 wireless controller features familiar controls while incorporating new ways to interact with games and other players. Dual analog sticks and trigger buttons offer an even greater sense of control, while the capacitive touch pad opens up endless potential for new gameplay possibilities. Sony Dual Shock 4 The DualShock®4 Wireless Controller features familiar controls, and incorporates several innovative features to usher in a new era of interactive experiences. Its definitive analog sticks and trigger buttons have been improved for greater feel and sensitivity. A multi-touch, clickable touch pad expands gameplay possibilities, while the incorporated light bar in conjunction with the PlayStation®Camera allows for easy player identification and screen adjustment when playing with friends in the same room. The addition of the Share button makes utilizing the social capabilities of the PlayStation®4 as easy as the push of a button. The DualShock®4 Wireless Controller is more than a controller; it’s your physical connection to a new era of gaming. Turtle Beach® Recon 50P Gaming Headset Power A Chat Headset Communicate with your friends while gaming in clear digital wideband audio with the officially licensed PowerA Chat Headset for Xbox One and PlayStation 4. 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PS4™ Pro, PS4™, Xbox One, PC, Mobile Taking gaming audio and comfort to the next level, the Turtle Beach® Recon 50P multi-platform gaming headset features a lightweight, comfortable design, and large 40mm over-ear speakers that let your gamers hear every crisp high and thundering low. The convenient in-line controls let them quickly and easily adjust Master Volume and Mic Mute, and the high sensitivity adjustable boom mic can be removed when they’re watching movies or listening to music. Power A Wired Controller for Xbox One Enjoy hours of gameplay with this officially licensed Xbox One Controller. The PowerA Wired Controller delivers everything expected in an XBOX One controller featuring textured analog sticks, dual rumble motors, impulse triggers, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a 9.8ft in-line release cable. This controller was built with the gamer in mind. PDP Rock Candy Controller Express yourself with your favorite color Rock Candy controller. Featuring colored polycarbonate shells, brilliant white accents, and only the essential components you need, these officially licensed controllers are built for fun. Perfect for gamers of all ages. feature A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT EACH GAME SYSTEM HAS TO OFFER 20 PLAYSTATION 4 PRO PLAYSTATION 4 SLIM PLAYSTATION VR Building on the success of the PlayStation 4, the PlayStation 4 Pro offers players more power and technology than ever before, brought together in a totally new design. Not only has the PS4 Pro been crafted to take games and media into the stunning world of 4K, but it plays all standard PS4 games, giving visual enhancements to those that have been updated to take advantage of the console’s added power. Sony has crafted the PlayStation 4 to be a powerful yet versatile gaming console that provides a new level of visual and storytelling depth yet presents easy programming for developers. The console offers the heavily redesigned DualShock 4 controller, which features a built-in touchpad and speaker, along with a wide variety of streaming and social features. With Sony’s latest design revision, the hardware is sleeker and quieter than ever. With the launch of PlayStation VR, Sony is giving consumers the chance to experience the magical new world of virtual reality gaming in a package that’s both easy to use and extremely affordable. Step into gaming worlds as you’ve never done before; you’ll get a 360-degree view of the action across a wide variety of genres and franchises. PS VR can even act as a self-contained display for all non-VR content on the PS4. THE SPECS Hardware Specialty High-end HD graphics up to 4K, offtelevision gameplay via PlayStation Vita Major Exclusives Uncharted 4, Ratchet & Clank, The Last Guardian Multimedia Support for both 1080p and 4K visuals; DVD and Blu-ray playback; digital audio and video support Networking Wired and wireless internet Bluetooth Online Services PlayStation Plus online multiplayer, game DVR video sharing and gameplay streaming, streaming-video services (including 4K), streaming-audio services, internet browser Key Peripherals PlayStation Camera, PlayStation Move (motion controller), smartphones and tablets (via PlayStation app functionality) THE SPECS Hardware Specialty High-end HD graphics, off-television gameplay via PlayStation Vita Major Exclusives Uncharted 4 Ratchet & Clank The Last Guardian Multimedia 1080p visuals; DVD and Blu-ray playback; digital audio and video support Networking Wired and wireless internet Bluetooth Online Services PlayStation Plus online multiplayer, game DVR video sharing and gameplay streaming, streaming-video services, streaming-audio services, internet browser Key Peripherals PlayStation Camera, PlayStation Move (motion controller), smartphones and tablets (via PlayStation app functionality) THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Self-contained VR headset featuring a 5.7inch OLED display, six-axis motion sensing Major Exclusives RIGS: Mechanized Combat League, Batman Arkham VR, DriveClub VR Multimedia Support for DVD and Blu-ray playback, digital audio and video support in non-VR mode Networking NA Online Services NA Key Peripherals PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 4 Pro (required), PlayStation Camera, PlayStation Move (motion controller) WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES feature A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT EACH GAME SYSTEM HAS TO OFFER XBOX ONE S WII U With the Xbox One S, Microsoft takes an all-in-one approach, creating hardware that can be the center of your entertainment needs. Players can snap apps to the side of the screen while playing games. At the same time, functions such as matchmaking or system updates all happen in the background. In this revision to the Xbox One platform, Microsoft has crafted a smaller and more stylish system that supports 4K streaming, Ultra HD Blu-ray movies and High Dynamic Range. Again striving for innovation with its latest system, the Nintendo Wii U’s tablet-like GamePad offers new experiences through an optional second screen when playing games on a TV, or by streaming those games to its own display. The Wii U also features Nintendo’s Miiverse, a family-friendly online social network. In addtion, the system has officially embraced the toys-to-life trend with built-in support for Nintendo’s amiibo figures. THE SPECS Hardware Specialty High-end UHD graphics, HDMI-in for allowing the Xbox One to access and control other media devices (such as DVRs) Major Exclusives Gears of War 4 Forza Horizon 3 Dead Rising 4 Multimedia 1080p & 4K visuals; DVD and Blu-ray playback; digital audio and video support Networking Wired and wireless internet Online Services Xbox Live online subscription service, game DVR video sharing and gameplay streaming, streaming-video services, streamingaudio services, internet browser Key Peripherals Xbox Elite Wireless Controller, Play & Charge Kit, smartphones and tablets (via SmartGlass functionality) 22 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Wii U GamePad tablet controller allows games to be played either on a TV or on the GamePad’s screen; Near Field Communication (NFC) for interaction with physical objects Major Exclusives Paper Mario: Color Splash Star Fox Zero Pokken Tournament Multimedia 1080p visuals Networking Wireless internet Online Services Free online multiplayer mode; Miiverse (social network for interacting with other players); streaming-video services (YouTube, etc.); internet browser, streaming services for movies and music Key Peripherals Classic Controller Pro; Wii Remote Plus; Wii Nunchuk; Wii Balance Board feature A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT EACH GAME SYSTEM HAS TO OFFER 24 PLAYSTATION 3 XBOX 360 PS VITA 3DS/NEW 3DS The third in Sony’s line of PlayStation consoles gives players a system that plays a host of visually stunning and creative games and offers a wide array of options for online gameplay and media playback. Sony’s latest hardware revision makes the PlayStation 3 console even smaller and lighter than before. Microsoft’s follow-up to its original Xbox became one of the most beloved gaming platforms worldwide. The Xbox 360 excels at running games both big and small, connecting players online, tapping into a plethora of multimedia functions and offering new gaming concepts via optional Kinect motion-tracking technology. Sony’s sophomore effort in the portable market brings the power of home consoles to the palm of your hand, delivering impressive visuals on a beautiful 5-inch LCD screen. The Vita also provides a versatile gaming experience, offering traditional controls and touch-based gameplay via its dual front and back touch surfaces. Nintendo’s 3DS has been a fantastic evolution of the company’s handheld efforts, combining impressive 3D visuals without the need for special glasses, deeper online support, and more options for social connectivity. Now, the New 3DS revision of the system brings improved 3D, more powerful hardware, and additional analog control options. THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Powerful HD graphics; extensive home-theater functions Major Exclusives Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus Gran Turismo 6 Puppeteer Multimedia 1080p visuals; CD, DVD and Blu-ray playback; digital audio and video support; DLNA network streaming Networking Wired and wireless internet; Bluetooth Online Services Free online multiplayer; PlayStation Plus (valueadded subscription service); streaming-video services (VUDU, MLB.TV, etc.); internet browser Key Peripherals PlayStation Eye (camera); PlayStation Move (motion controller) THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Powerful HD graphics; unique gameplay experiences via Kinect Major Exclusives Gears of War: Judgment Fable Anniversary Kinect Sesame Street TV Multimedia 1080p visuals; CD and DVD playback; digital audio and video file support; Windows Media Center Networking Wired and wireless internet Online Services Xbox Live online multiplayer subscription service; streaming-video services (VUDU, ESPN, NFL Sunday Ticket, MLB.TV, etc.); streaming-audio services (Last.fm, iHeartRadio); internet browser Key Peripherals Kinect (motion peripheral); Xbox 360 Wireless Headset; Xbox 360 Chatpad THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Console-quality graphics and controls on a portable device; impressive LCD display; dual touch surfaces; support for wide variety of classic PlayStation titles Major Exclusives Killzone: Mercenary Freedom Wars Persona 4: Dancing All Night Multimedia 540p visuals; digital audio and video file support Networking Wireless internet Online Services Free online multiplayer; PlayStation Plus (value-added subscription service); streaming video services (MLB. TV, NHL, Twitch, etc.); Vita apps (email, maps, etc.) Key Peripherals Vita Cradle; portable charger WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES THE SPECS Hardware Specialty Dual screens; adjustable glassesfree 3D graphic effects; touchscreen; StreetPass wireless communication between different devices; built-in 3D camera Major Exclusives Pokémon Sun/Moon Yo-Kai Watch 2 Mario Party: Star Rush Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice Multimedia 240p visuals; digital audio playback; 3D photo and video support Networking Wireless internet Online Services Free online multiplayer; SpotPass and Nintendo Zone wireless services; streaming video on-demand capabilities Key Peripherals Augmented Reality Cards; 3DS Stand feature NEW LEGO DIMENSIONS SETS BUILD ON THE ORIGINAL Introducing the perfect mix of modern pop culture and nostalgia BY MARC CAMRON L EGO Dimensions made a splash last year by combining the world’s best-selling construction toys with a toys-to-life video game. For the first time, players could combine disparate licensed franchises such as Batman, Scooby Doo!, The Simpsons and Back to the Future, not just in some toy box but actually in the core game. With great 26 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES characters, a funny script and actual models to build and mini-figs to play with, the game worked on every level. Fans genuinely looked forward to LEGO Dimensions 2 to see what else developer TT Games might have up its sleeve. Then came the big surprise: There wouldn’t be a LEGO Dimensions 2, at least feature There is no better time to see what lies ahead in the multi-verse. not yet. Instead, TT Games and publisher Warner Bros. decided to reward existing players with an ocean of new content that works with the first game, assuming you have an Internet connection to update the software for free. In September, Warner Bros. began releasing new Packs. Experienced players will recognize the Level, Team and Fun Packs that offer new characters, vehicles and even game content. To really keep the game fresh, though, new Story Packs offer much, much more. Story Packs feature six levels as well as new abilities, which players earn when they find the two new Keystones. From a toy standpoint, the Story Packs come with one or two new mini-figs, a vehicle and a new gateway to build. The first two Story Packs come from popular 2016 movies, Ghostbusters and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. The third, releasing in early 2017, will follow the much-anticipated LEGO Batman Movie. Since we already have a great LEGO Batman mini-fig, look for that Pack to fill out the Bat-family with Robin and Batgirl. What really distinguishes Story Packs from Level Packs, though, is that levels naturally integrate and extend the game’s original campaign. Players experience each movie’s story as they search for pieces of Lord Vortech that are spread across the multi-verse. And if all of the new Story and Adventure levels aren’t enough, the expansions include 4-player battle arenas. With four gameplay modes, including Capture the Flag and Base Bash, the arenas provide an opportunity for direct player-versus-player gameplay, which was missing from the original game. With 21 arenas, with locals as diverse as the main game, there are plenty of combinations to keep you entertained. And if you ever wondered what it would be like pitting Harry Potter against Mr. T, here you can find out. The charm of LEGO Dimensions remains in the ability to mix-and-match characters from different franchises, and adding all these new properties brings increased depth to the game while offering surprises around every corner. Even playing through the original game using the new characters is a blast. If you haven’t already checked out LEGO Dimensions, there is no better time to see what lies ahead in the multi-verse. NEW SETS TO MIX AND MATCH So, what new LEGO Dimensions packs are available this fall? The complete releases for waves six and seven, listed below, are available now. The fun doesn’t stop there, though. Next year, look for more great packs based on Beetlejuice, The Goonies, Knight Rider, The LEGO Batman Movie, The Powderpuff Girls and Teen Titans Go! WAVE 6 Ghostbusters (2016) Story Pack Adventure Time Level Pack Mission Impossible Level Pack Adventure Time Team Pack Harry Potter Team Pack The A-Team Fun Pack WAVE 7 Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Story Pack Sonic the Hedgehog Level Pack Gremlins Team Pack Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Fun Pack E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Fun Pack Adventure Time Fun Pack WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 27 feature BRING TOYS TO LIFE LIKE NEVER BEFORE IN SKYLANDERS’ LATEST INSTALLMENT FINALLY YOU CAN CREATE YOUR OWN SKYLANDER BY MATT CABRAL 28 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES feature WONDERFUL TOYS As Skylanders’ faithful followers are well aware, investing in the series’ latest game is just an excuse to obsessively collect all the new toys. On top of supporting all 300-plus previous collectibles, Imaginators introduces a number of new musthave additions: 20 Senseis, including Crash Bandicoot and Dr. Neo Cortex; and 11 villians, including a fully playable Kaos; See you in the toy aisle! The franchise’s newest chapter may be its most groundbreaking yet. I n 2011, Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure invited gamers of all stripes to enjoy their favorite pastime in an engaging new way. By placing physical toys on a portal-like peripheral connected to a game console, players could magically bring these plastic figures to life in the digital world. While the game’s enormous popularity spawned a new, block-busting game genre, the series wasn’t about to rest on its success. Its caretakers continued to innovate, introducing a fresh cast of powerful characters in Skylanders Giants to letting fans feed their need for speed in the vehicle-based Skylanders SuperChargers. The franchise’s newest chapter, however, may be its most groundbreaking yet. Skylanders Imaginators continues to blur the line between playing with toys and interacting with videogames, and adds an unprecedented amount of creativity to the mix. For the first time, the series allows fans to create and customize their own Skylanders characters. By mixing and matching unique abilities, skills, powers, appearances and personalities, players can craft whatever type of hero or heroine pops into their heads. Leveraging the magic of Creation Crystals — a new physical toy element that plugs into the Portal of Power — players transport their personalized protagonists into the game world. Joining these brave new Skylanders are the wise and powerful Senseis, masters of specific battle classes such as Knight, Brawler, Bowslinger, Sorcerer and Ninja. Adopting player-created characters as apprentices, these Senseis school them in the way of Sky-Chi — allowing them to unleash table-turning super moves — and provide access to class-specific weapons and secret areas. Of course, awaiting these masters and their young charges is a sprawling new Skylanders adventure. Packed with all the personality and varied gameplay experiences — from puzzle-solving and mini-games to exploration and combat — fans have come to expect from the series, Imaginators spins a fun, fresh yarn involving Kaos’ latest world-dominating plot. Without spoiling too much, it seems the returning super-villain underestimates the power of his clone to reflect its creator’s most evil-doing qualities. By cleverly mixing familiar gameplay elements with the new ability to bring your own Frankenstein-like Skylander to life, Imaginators takes this innovative series in an exciting and unexpected direction. Whether you’re a seasoned Portal Master or have never had your passport stamped in Skyland, the franchise’s newest entry promises to pique your imagination with its latest twist on the toys-to-life formula. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 29 feature PARENTS GUIDE PLAYSTATION VR HARDWARE WHAT YOUR KIDS (OR SPOUSE) WILL ASK FOR THIS HOLIDAY BY JOSH HARMON 30 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES What is VR? Virtual reality, or VR for short, uses a head-mounted display — a screen with special lenses in front of it, worn like a pair of goggles — and headphones to trick your brain into thinking you’re inside a digital world. VR experiences can vary from fully interactive games to non-interactive movies that you just sit back and watch, albeit with the freedom to look all around you as the action unfolds. Some VR headsets require a high-end PC to run, and others rely on smartphones. The PlayStation VR is the first, and currently only, setup that runs on a home gaming console. feature How are VR games different? Because virtual reality gaming is so new, game makers are still finding out what sorts of games work best in VR. Puzzle games, action games, first-person shooters and driving games are among the genres available in current VR titles. Many VR games use motion controllers to stand in for your hands, allowing you to interact with your surroundings in a surprisingly natural way. Others use the standard PlayStation 4 controller to offer more conventional gameplay augmented by VR immersion. VR experiences tend to be shorter and more replayable, but in most cases, they’re also substantially cheaper than standard games. What games are available for the PlayStation VR? The PSVR launched with a huge library of games, including VR takes on classic franchises such as Batman and Rez, as well as completely original titles. Below, you’ll find a list of PSVR-compatible games scheduled to launch before Nov. 25, along with their ESRB ratings. Is it OK for kids to use VR? Manufacturers recommend limiting the use of VR headsets to children age 12 or older, to avoid damaging the still developing eyesight of younger kids. In addition, players of any age may experience nausea while playing certain VR games, but it’s no more dangerous than getting carsick or seasick. Will the PlayStation VR work with my current PS4? Yes. Provided you have all the required accessories, the PlayStation VR will work with any PlayStation 4 consoles. What accessories are required? Sony sells the PlayStation VR headset as a standalone purchase, but you’ll need to make sure you also have the PlayStation Camera, which the PlayStation VR uses to track the headset position. Sony recently introduced a new, redesigned camera, but the old and new versions both work fine with PSVR. If you’re interested in getting the most out of the experience, buying two PlayStation Move motion controllers is your best bet; they’re even required for some games. If you already have Move controllers from the PlayStation 3 era, however, those will work just fine. How much space do I need to use PlayStation VR? Sony officially recommends a play space that measures 10 feet by 10 feet, but with many games, you can get by with considerably less. A number of PlayStation VR games can be played sitting down. For these games, you don’t need any more space to play than you would a conventional game, though you will need to make sure you’re sitting at the proper distance, in full view of the camera for your movements to be picked up. If you’re interested in getting the most out of the experience, buying two PlayStation Move motion controllers is your best bet. 100ft Robot Golf E10+ Ace Banana E The Assembly T Batman: Arkham VR M Battlezone T Bound E10+ Carnival Games VR E10+ Driveclub VR E Eagle Flight E10+ EVE: Gunjack T EVE: Valkyrie T Harmonix Music VR E Hatsune Miku: Project Diva X T Headmaster E10+ Here They Lie M Hustle Kings VR E Job Simulator E10+ Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes E10+ Loading Human: Chapter 1 T Moto Racer 4 E SportsBarVR E Super Stardust Ultra VR E10+ Pixel Gear RP The Playroom VR E PlayStation VR Worlds M Rez Infinite E10+ Rigs Mechanized Combat League T Rise of the Tomb Raider: Blood Ties M Superhypercube E Thumper E10+ Tumble VR E Trackmania VR E Until Dawn: Rush of Blood M Volume: Coda T Waddle Home E Wayward Sky T Weeping Doll RP World War Toons T WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 31 game directory Walmart has this season’s hottest games Just give each of your favorite gamers a copy of this guide and have them check off which games they want to unwrap come gift-giving time. Then head over to your local Walmart store or go online to www.walmart.com, where you will find all the games on this list plus the consoles and accessories you need to play them! CHECK YOUR FAVORITES! STATS PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ADVENTURE RELEASE 10/14/16 F1 2016 PUBLISHER DEEP SILVER GENRE RACING RELEASE 8/19/16 FIFA 17 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1-16 ABOUT THE GAME Featuring nearly 100 tire-screeching rides, 20 detail-drenched tracks and multiple play modes, this authentic racing simulator delivers unmatched immersion behind the wheel. Whether feeding your need for speed or trading paint with up to 15 of your closest rubber-burning buddies online, Assetto Corsa’s intricately detailed, high-performance vehicles — from prestigious car makers such as McLaren, Ferrari and Lamborghini — will have you buckling up and breaking the speed limit. WHO’S IT FOR Assetto Corsa is suitable for speed demons of any age. PUBLISHER EA SPORTS GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 9/27/16 KIRBY: PLANET ROBOBOT SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-8 ABOUT THE GAME Dirt Rally cranks up the realism with varied terrain — ice, snow, gravel and tarmac — and a variety of challenge-ratcheting weather conditions. When not braving the road or the elements, lead-foot fans will enjoy tearing through stunning environments and tracks from behind the wheels of highly detailed off-road rides. Both rewarding single-player events and adrenaline-amping multiplayer modes will have speed demons of all stripes buckling up and hitting the gas in this incredibly rich rally racing experience. WHO’S IT FOR Dirt Rally is suitable for race fans of any age. PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE PLATFORM RELEASE 6/10/16 32 MADDEN NFL 17 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Perfect for budding Picassos and Disney fans, this teaches users how to draw more than 80 iconic characters, from Mickey Mouse and Nemo to Elsa and Simba. Step-by-step instructions allow even younger artists to bring their favorite Disney and Pixar friends to vibrant life. A number of optional features, such as a Magic Brush that adds extra flair and effects to your masterpieces, make sketching even more fun. WHO’S IT FOR Disney Art Academy is suitable for artists of all ages. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME A fresh take on Kirby’s family-friendly platforming formula, Planet Robobot puts the adorable pink mascot behind the controls of a towering mech. From the cockpit, players can scan enemies, shape-shift into powerful forms such as cars and jets, and inhale baddies to gain special abilities. Complemented by a pop-off-the-screen visual presentation, the title includes a charming story mode, as well a cooperative role-playing-inspired mini-game that supports up to four users. WHO’S IT FOR Kirby: Planet Robobot is suitable for platforming fans of any age. STATS STATS DISNEY ART ACADEMY PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ART RELEASE 5/13/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-11 ABOUT THE GAME Players are invited back to the pitch for the seminal soccer series’ most ambitious entry yet. Powered by the realism-ratcheting Frostbite engine, FIFA 17 presents the franchise’s most immersive and authentic on-the-field experience. Improved ball mechanics and other enhancements complement “The Journey”, a cinematic career mode that puts equal focus on narrative depth and action-packed competition. Additional modes offer a variety of ways to enjoy the world’s most popular sport. WHO’S IT FOR FIFA 17 is suitable for soccer stars of all ages. STATS STATS DIRT RALLY PUBLISHER DEEP SILVER GENRE RACING RELEASE 4/5/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-22 ABOUT THE GAME The most comprehensive Formula 1 experience, F1 2016 features official drivers, circuits and teams, as well as a robust 10-season career mode that puts players behind the wheel like never before. While solo speedsters will love progressing through the ranks, the new Multiplayer Championship Mode allows them to tear up the blacktop alongside 21 of their closest friends. Detailed car models, real-world tracks and an unprecedented sense of speed puts this one in first place. WHO’S IT FOR F1 2016 is appropriate for race enthusiasts of all ages. STATS STATS ASSETTO CORSA PUBLISHER 505 GAMES GENRE RACING RELEASE 8/30/16 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Whether you’re a fan of Disney’s classic films or love visiting Mickey and friends at the theme parks, this follow-up to 2014’s pixie-dust-filled Disney Magical World will immerse players in some of the happiest places on Earth. Featuring six themed worlds, from Frozen to Beauty and the Beast, this sequel allows players to interact with and customize a variety of favorite characters from all over the magical Disney universe. WHO’S IT FOR Disney Magical World 2 is appropriate for Disney fans of any age. STATS ABOUT THE RATING EVERYONE Content is generally suitable for all ages. May contain minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence and/ or infrequent use of mild language. YOUR ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GAME WISH LIST! DISNEY MAGICAL WORLD 2 PUBLISHER EA GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 8/23/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Gridiron gamers take the field in the annual football franchise’s most polished and feature-rich entry to date. In addition to sporting a near-photo-realistic visual presentation, updated rosters and enhanced ball mechanics, Madden NFL 17 introduces best-in-class commentary, a much deeper Franchise mode and a locker-room full of refinements that bring a new level of realism and immersion to the pigskin pastime. WHO’S IT FOR Madden NFL 17 is suitable for football fans of any age. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 1/22/16 NBA 2K17 SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Two fan-favorite Nintendo franchises — Mario & Luigi and Paper Mario — collide in a clever role-playing game that puts players behind the ultimate trio of plumber protagonists. Using each characters’ unique powers, such as Paper Mario’s ability to duplicate himself, fans tackle daring quests, solve tricky puzzles and face dangerous foes. Multiple Mushroom Kingdom regulars join the Jam to help — or hinder — your journey through two magical universes. WHO’S IT FOR Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam is suitable for Nintendo fans of all ages. STATS STATS MARIO & LUIGI: PAPER JAM PUBLISHER 2K GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 9/16/16 PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 11/4/16 POKÉMON SUN AND MOON SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME This collection of on-the-go mini-games sports seven modes, a sprawling cast of Mushroom Kingdom characters and a vibrant presentation. In “Toad Scramble,” a fastpaced, strategy game, each player assumes the role of the titular sidekicks, while other participants take down dangerous bosses. “Coinathon” similarly mixes things up, using Super Mario Bros.’ iconic, shiny collectibles in a lightning-quick, mini-game gauntlet. WHO’S IT FOR Mario Party Star Rush is suitable for party-goers of any age. ABOUT THE GAME As with last year’s polished, fan-pleasing installment, NBA 2K17 features gorgeous visuals, stunning player animations, fluid gameplay and the most immersive on-the-court experience the medium has ever seen. Building on that formula is a brand new story-driven career mode starring Michael B. Jordan. As players progress through the narrative, they’ll shape their career — both on and off the court — through their performance and personal decisions. Additional modes, online and off, make this the b-ball sim to beat. WHO’S IT FOR NBA 2K17 is suitable for basketball fans of any age. STATS STATS MARIO PARTY STAR RUSH SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-10 PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 11/18/16 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Pokémon Sun and Moon are the latest in the long-running line of Pokémon handheld games from Nintendo. Players capture, raise, train and battle various Pokémon throughout the game. Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon are two different, although nearly identical, games. Only some of the evolutions and creatures available vary, so it’s important to choose your preferred Pokémon. These two entries also have a handful of new features not seen in previous games. WHO’S IT FOR Pokémon Sun and Moon are perfect for players of all ages who enjoy Pokémon or role-playing games. STATS MLB THE SHOW 16 PUBLISHER SCEA GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 3/29/16 SYSTEMS PS4, PS3 PLAYERS 1-8 ABOUT THE GAME Sony’s latest and most ambitious slide into home plate is packed with enhancements and refinements to the series’ popular formula, but also includes a number of new features that should please any fan of America’s favorite pastime. On top of a more personalized career mode, complete with curated highlights, players can look forward to focused Gold Glove-quality controls, a revamped training system and the most lifelike “Road to the Show” yet. WHO’S IT FOR MLB 16: The Show is suitable for MVPs of all ages. PUBLISHER GAMEMILL ENT. GENRE ACTION RELEASE 10/25/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Monster truck fans can finally experience the thrill of racing, jumping and performing show-stopping stunts behind the wheel of vehicular behemoths. Featuring 30 maps — forests, deserts, polar environments and more — 84 challenges, 12 events and six authentic stadiums, Crush It is absolutely brimming with 4-wheeling, mud-flinging content. Adrenaline junkies can crank up the chaos in a free-roaming mode that’s all about causing as much metal-twisting destruction as possible. WHO’S IT FOR Monster Jam: Crush It is suitable for monster truck fans of any age. STATS NASCAR HEAT EVOLUTION PUBLISHER DMR GENRE RACING RELEASE 9/13/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-40 FORZA HORIZON 3 STATS STATS MONSTER JAM: CRUSH IT PUBLISHER MICROSOFT GENRE RACING RELEASE 9/27/16 ABOUT THE GAME Building on previous entries in the popular tire-screeching series, NASCAR Heat Evolution delivers everything you expect from the franchise — multiple modes, official tracks and souped-up stock cars — but shifts things into high gear with some fresh features. Most notably, the series’ latest lap introduces online competitive multiplayer; supporting up to 40 racers, the new mode allows fans to create custom matches by tinkering with track selections, lap counts, fuel and tire wear and more. WHO’S IT FOR NASCAR Heat Evolution is suitable for competitive racers of any age. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME Stretched across stunning Australian environments, from beautiful beaches to the rugged outback, Forza Horizon 3 lets fans race to their hearts’ content from the driver’s seats of a whopping 350 vehicles. The postcard-perfect visual presentation is nicely complemented by finely tuned gameplay mechanics that hit the sweet spot between arcade-y thrills and sophisticated simulation. An open-world setting, multiple modes and insanely-detailed car models round out this content-packed racing experience. WHO’S IT FOR Forza Horizon 3 is suitable for lead-footed fans of any age. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 33 game directory PUBLISHER KONAMI GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 09/13/16 SYSTEM PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1- 2 ABOUT THE GAME There are really only two major soccer games on the market: EA’s FIFA and Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer, or PES. While the series’ quality has been close for years, PES is starting to breakaway as the definitive soccer experience. The degree of authenticity cannot be matched, and the game continues to expand and improve to offer the most complete — and fun — electronic version of the beautiful game. WHO’S IT FOR Pro Evolution Soccer 2017 is suitable for all ages. PUBLISHER MILESTONE S.R.L. GENRE RACING RELEASE 01/29/16 ROCKET LEAGUE PUBLISHER PSYONIX GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 07/05/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-16 ABOUT THE GAME Many racing games focus on realistically and accurately recreating specific cars, tracks and roads around the world. But off-road racing, such as that found in Sébastien Loeb Rally Evo, is a similarly intense, yet less popular sport. Here, you’ll get behind the wheel for some relatively arcade-style racing with enough dirt and mud to fill your heart’s desires. Fans will immediately recognize the name of the nine-time World Rally Champion that graces the game’s cover and title. WHO’S IT FOR Sébastien Loeb Rally Evo’s realistic racing is suitable for players of all ages. SONIC BOOM: FIRE & ICE SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-6 STATS STATS ABOUT THE RATING EVERYONE Content is generally suitable for all ages. May contain minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence and/ or infrequent use of mild language. SÉBASTIEN LOEB RALLY EVO STATS STATS PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2017 ABOUT THE GAME Rocket League is a quirky game best described as soccer with rocket-powered race cars on a giant field. It’s as extremely bizarre as it sounds, but what it lacks in sensibility it more than makes up for in sheer fun. Players boost around the field ramming a giant ball as they try to score on their opponents. Rocket League is so exciting because it combines the silly and outlandish with the familiar and approachable. It’s an addictive game that’s easy to learn and difficult to master. WHO’S IT FOR Rocket League’s intense fun is suitable for players of all ages. PUBLISHER SEGA GENRE ACTION/ PLATFORM RELEASE 09/27/16 SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice, the next game in the spin-off Sonic Boom series, features bright, colorful environments mixed with fun and engaging platforming segments. Its wide cast of characters, including Sonic, Knuckles and Tails, can be switched at will, so you’ll have to use each character’s unique abilities to overcome each level’s variety of obstacles and puzzles. Fire & Ice also puts an expected emphasis on elemental-based content, such as breaking ice blocks with fire powers. WHO’S IT FOR Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice’s exciting platforming is suitable for players of all ages. STATS STYLE SAVVY: FASHION FORWARD PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE SIMULATION RELEASE 08/19/16 SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Attention, aspiring fashion designers and boutique owners: In Style Savvy: Fashion Forward, you marvel at the latest fashion trends as a budding fashionista, or you can manage your own boutique in Beaumonde City, with the goal of creating an empire. Embark on your quest to become the next top model and dominate the fashion world in five different careers: Store Manager, Hair Stylist, Makeup Artist, Designer and Model. WHO’S IT FOR Style Savvy: Fashion Forward’s trendy simulations are suitable for players of all ages. STATS SUPER MARIO MAKER FOR NINTENDO 3DS PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE PLATFORM/ SANDBOX RELEASE 12/02/16 PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 10/07/16 34 SYSTEMS WII U PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Paper Mario: Color Splash is an action adventure game set in the Mushroom Kingdom of the Super Mario game series. Instead of running and jumping through levels as in most of Mario’s adventures, players are tasked with embarking on a more story-focused adventure. Paper Mario and Paper Peach must travel through various exotic locations to save the color-drained Paper Toad. Color Splash is a sequel in the same line of games as Sticker Star and other Paper Mario games. WHO’S IT FOR Paper Mario: Color Splash is perfect for players of all ages. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES ABOUT THE GAME Mario’s latest romp around the Mushroom Kingdom might be his best yet, as the player builds the levels he’ll conquer. Behind a deep but intuitive tool set, Super Mario Maker, originally released on the Wii U last year, encourages budding game designers to craft their own content on the 3DS. Of course, players who haven’t ignited their creative spark can still enjoy unlimited platforming fun by downloading and sampling missions and created by others. WHO’S IT FOR Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS is perfect for players and creators of all ages. WRC 6 STATS STATS PAPER MARIO: COLOR SPLASH SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER MAXIMUM GAMES GENRE RACING RELEASE 10/07/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-8 ABOUT THE GAME WRC 6 takes rally racing to new heights with exciting terrains to tackle — such as dirt, asphalt, mud, snow and ice — as well as local multiplayer split-screen. The game features 14 World Rally Championship events and is the 2016 official video game of the FIA WRC. The intense realism and racing excitement is perfect for fans of Rally racing. An abundance of content will keep you racing for weeks on end. WHO’S IT FOR WRC 6 is appropriate for racers of any age. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory DRAGON QUEST VII: FRAGMENTS OF THE FORGOTTEN PAST PUBLISHER 2K GENRE STRATEGY RELEASE 10/21/16 ABOUT THE GAME The seminal turn-based strategy series’ sixth, most ambitious entry refines the franchise’s familiar formula, yet introduces a number of fresh features. Beginning in the Stone Age, the game tasks seasoned strategists with building an empire through fighting wars against competing leaders, conducting smart diplomacy and advancing a culture to the Information Age. Multiple modes allow players to enjoy pick-up-and-play sessions, extended campaigns and competitive matches against friends. WHO’S IT FOR Civilization VI is suitable for strategy fans 10 and over. PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 9/16/16 PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 10/11/16 ABOUT THE GAME A classic game rebuilt from the ground up for the Nintendo 3DS, Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past features a sprawling time-travel adventure, a colorful cast of characters and deep party customization options. Updated visuals, turn-based combat and creative creature designs complement the RPG fun, while unique StreetPass functionality allows fans to explore new dungeons. WHO’S IT FOR Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past is intended for adventurers 10 and over. STATS SYSTEMS PS4, VITA PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME A brilliant blend of Minecraft-like building mechanics and the epic role-playing adventures the Dragon Quest series is known for, this unique spin-off tests fans’ constructing, combating and questing skills. With a heavy focus on crafting and building, an epic fantasy story surrounding the evil Dragonlord and plenty of familiar characters and settings, this fresh yet familiar take on the legendary franchise has something for seasoned fans and DQ recruits alike. WHO’S IT FOR Dragon Quest Builders is intended for gamers 10 and over. SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1 FINAL FANTASY EXPLORERS DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS STATS ABOUT THE RATING EVERYONE 10+ Content is generally suitable for ages 10 and up. May contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/ or minimal suggestive themes. SYSTEMS PC PLAYERS 1-8 STATS STATS CIVILIZATION VI PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 1/26/16 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME An action-packed role-playing game set in the legendary Final Fantasy universe, Explorers lets fans unleash the unique weapons and powers of 11 classic franchise characters. When not harnessing the ultimate attacks of fan-favorite heroes such as Cloud, Squall and Tera, players embark on a new journey, complete with imaginative enemies, locations and stories. A focus on team-play encourages explorers to partner with friends for the ultimate cooperative FF experience. WHO’S IT FOR Final Fantasy Explorers is suitable for adventurers 10 and over. STATS JUST DANCE 2017 PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE RHYTHM RELEASE 10/25/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, WII U, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-6 ABOUT THE GAME The most content-packed Just Dance title to date, this year’s entry is jamming with modes, songs and hip-swinging enhancements. Featuring various dance types, from flamenco and ballet to the cancan, and all-new modes, the medium’s most popular rhythm game sports more ways than ever to get your groove on. Those who want to cut calories while cutting a rug can even customize their own workouts in Sweat Mode. WHO’S IT FOR Just Dance: 2017 is intended for rhythm-loving gamers 10 and over. STATS JUST SING 36 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, WII U, 3DS, VITA, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Based on last year’s Force-fueled blockbuster, this LEGO game from a galaxy far, far away allows fans to wield lightsabers, fire blasters and pilot iconic vehicles as Rey, Finn, Han, Chewbacca and nearly 200 other unlockable characters. On top of putting that signature LEGO spin on Star Wars’ latest cinematic adventure, this galaxy-spanning ride includes new dialogue recorded by the film’s cast, as well as bonus content that expands many of the movie’s biggest mysteries. WHO’S IT FOR LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens is aimed at gaming Jedi 10 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE RHYTHM RELEASE 9/6/16 ABOUT THE GAME Building on the block-busting popularity of its Just Dance series, Ubisoft aims to create more living-room legends with Just Sing. With multiple modes and a star-studded track list featuring Justin Bieber, Meghan Trainor and One Direction, Just Sing encourages crooners of all skill levels to grab the mic and belt out their favorite tunes. Perfect for fun gatherings or spirited online competitions, Just Sing is your next rhythm-game addiction. WHO’S IT FOR Just Sing is suitable for Bieber-wannabes 13 and over. LEGO HARRY POTTER COLLECTION STATS PUBLISHER WBIE GENRE ACTION RELEASE 6/28/16 STATS LEGO STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1-4 PUBLISHER WBIE GENRE ACTION RELEASE 10/18/16 SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME A remastered collection of the brick-based classics LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and Years 5-7, this compilation spruces up the last-gen favorites with a fresh coat of newgen paint. On top of the enhanced visual presentation, the bundle features all the spell-casting, puzzle-solving, potion-making fun of both games, as well as their character and spell DLC packs. Perfect for master wizards and Hogwarts freshmen alike, this magical collection packs in hours of Potter-fueled fun. WHO’S IT FOR The LEGO Harry Potter Collection is suitable for wizard-wannabes 10 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER WBIE GENRE ACTION RELEASE 1/26/16 STATS SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, WII U, PS3, XBOX 360, 3DS, VITA, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Suit up as Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in this brick-smashing adventure based on Marvel’s biggest blockbusters, including Avengers: Age of Ultron and Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Playing as LEGO-fied versions of 100-plus unlockable characters, fans romp through iconic sets, beat up blocky bad guys, and gather collectibles and secrets. The series’ charm and family-friendly co-op play round out this heroic offering. WHO’S IT FOR LEGO Marvel’s Avengers is suitable for fans 10 and over. PUBLISHER SONY GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 4/12/16 MARIO & SONIC AT THE 2016 RIO OLYMPIC GAMES STATS ABOUT THE RATING EVERYONE 10+ Content is generally suitable for ages 10 and up. May contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/ or minimal suggestive themes. RATCHET & CLANK PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 6/24/16 SYSTEMS WII U, 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME Packed with personality and family-friendly competition, this colorful sports game invites armchair athletes to take part in 14 different 2016 Rio Olympic events. As characters from the Super Mario and Sonic universes, participants go for the gold in soccer, archery, swimming, gymnastics and more. Those craving a franchise-inspired twist on the familiar events can mix things up by adding foes such as Goombas and Moto Bugs. WHO’S IT FOR Mario & Sonic at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games is suitable for competitors 10 and over. SKYLANDERS IMAGINATORS PUBLISHER ACTIVISION GENRE ACTION RELEASE 10/16/16 STAR FOX ZERO AND STAR FOX GUARD SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1-6 ABOUT THE GAME Building on the series’ behind-the-puck formula, NHL 17 polishes the visual presentation and gameplay and adds new features and modes. Draft Champions, World Cup and Franchise modes allow fans to experience both the competitive thrills and behind-the-scenes drama, while Net Battle significantly ups the authenticity — and adrenaline — for goalies. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or fresh off the bench, NHL 17 puts you on the ice like never before. WHO’S IT FOR NHL 17 is suitable for hockey fans 10 and over. PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 4/22/16 WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-24 ABOUT THE GAME Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is a third-person action shooting game featuring the silly, whimsical characters from the popular Plants vs. Zombies series. Unlike the original series, the Garden Warfare games pit players against one another with projectile weapons. Players can chose a variety of characters with multiple objectives and modes. This can be played solo, co-op for up to 4 players,locally with split-screen, or up to 24 multiplayer online. WHO’S IT FOR Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is perfect for players of all ages that enjoy shooting games. PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE RPG RELEASE 10/25/16 38 YO-KAI WATCH 2 SYSTEMS WII U PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Have you ever wanted to see Pikachu slap the snot out of a Charizard? Or maybe you want to see Gengar gut-punch Machamp? That’s what Pokken Tournament is all about. In the classic handheld adventures, you battle Pokemon in a controlled, turn-based setting. Pokken Tournament instead pits them in 1v1 combat in which players directly control the little monsters. The fights are epic, over-the-top and exactly what you’d hope for out of a proper Pokemon fighting game. WHO’S IT FOR Pokken Tournament is suitable for players 10 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES SYSTEMS PS4, VITA PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME World of Final Fantasy takes place in Grymoire, a melting pot of worlds, items and characters from previous Final Fantasy adventures. You’ll follow siblings Lann and Reynn, who suffer from amnesia and must embark on a mission to recover their memories. The combat is similar to recent entries in the core franchise, using an active time battle system. However, characters from throughout the series appear in the game. WHO’S IT FOR World of Final Fantasy’s role-playing fun is suitable for players 10 and over. STATS STATS POKKÉN TOURNAMENT PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE FIGHTING RELEASE 3/18/16 SYSTEMS WII U PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME As a dual-game bundle exclusive to the Wii U, Star Fox Zero and Star Fox Guard offer decidedly different experiences. Zero re-imagines the classic Star Fox formula that pits players against enemies in a continuously scrolling level. Players dodge projectiles and morph their ships between several different forms. Guard, on the other hand, is a relatively traditional tower defense game that has very little to do with the Star Fox brand, but features a surprising level of strategic depth for budding tactical gamers. WHO’S IT FOR Star Fox Zero and Star Fox Guard are each suitable for players 10 and over. STATS STATS PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: GARDEN WARFARE 2 PUBLISHER EA GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 2/23/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, WII U, PS3, XBOX 360 PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Similar to past Skylanders games, players use toy figures as characters in the game via a Portal of Power device. This time around, though, there’s a twist: Skylanders Imaginators players create their own characters, called Imaginators. When creating this character, players choose everything from how they look and talk to how they fight and traverse the environment. Created characters can also be shared with friends. WHO’S IT FOR Skylanders Imaginators’ action-packed gameplay is suitable for players 10 and over. STATS STATS NHL 17 PUBLISHER EA SPORTS GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 9/13/16 SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Dating back to the PlayStation 2, Ratchet & Clank is one of the longest-running and most popular game series. The newest version reboots the franchise and ties in to the recently released film of the same name. With his sidekick Clank, Ratchet battles, jumps and shoots his way through a variety of colorful levels to save the galaxy. This fast, fun and exciting game that feels like an animated film come to life. WHO’S IT FOR Ratchet & Clank’s adventure is suitable for players 10 and over. STATS STATS LEGO MARVEL’S AVENGERS PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 9/30/16 SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME The follow-up to last year’s popular handheld entry, Yo-kai Watch 2 continues the anime-based franchise. The mischievous, cute and sometimes creepy Yo-Kai inhabit the mysterious world of Yo-kai Watch. A cultural phenomenon in Japan, this unique role-playing game tasks players with using the titular timepiece to befriend and recruit the aforementioned entities. If it sounds similar to Pokemon, that’s because it is. WHO’S IT FOR Yo-kai Watch 2’s fantasy violence is best suited for gamers 10 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER 505 GAMES GENRE ADVENTURE RELEASE 3/28/16 SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Immersive, emotional and unbelievably tense in all the best possible ways, Adr1ft unravels the very personal tale of a stranded astronaut attempting to survive among the wreckage of a destroyed space station. Playing from a first-person perspective, you play as Commander Alex Oshima, as he overcomes obstacles, uncovers secrets, solves puzzles and — most importantly — continually searches for life-sustaining oxygen, all while floating through beautifully realized zero-gravity environments. WHO’S IT FOR Adr1ft is suitable for adventurers 13 and over. PUBLISHER 2K GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 5/3/16 BATMAN: RETURN TO ARKHAM PUBLISHER WBIE GENRE ACTION RELEASE 10/18/16 BIG BUCK HUNTER ARCADE SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Two of the absolute best Batman games of all time come together in one massive crime-fighting bundle. Both Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City have been fully remastered to deliver improved graphics, as well as enhanced character models, lighting, effects and environments. In addition to the fresh paint job and original story campaigns, this fan-pleasing collection comes with a utility belt full of extras, including all “Game of the Year” extras and DLC. WHO’S IT FOR Batman: Return to Arkham is suitable for crime-fighters 13 and over. SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-10 ABOUT THE GAME The latest over-the-top shooter from the creative folks behind Borderlands provides players with 25 colorful and heavily armed characters. Encompassing an unprecedented range of play styles, these two dozen heroes possess a variety of distinct weapons, gadgets, skills and upgradable powers. In addition to an action-cranking solo campaign, Battleborn features a trio of objective-based modes — Incursion, Capture and Meltdown — that pit two teams of five players against each other in thumb-blistering battles to the death. WHO’S IT FOR Battleborn is suitable for shooter fans 13 and over. STATS STATS ABOUT THE RATING: TEEN Content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. May contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/ or infrequent use of strong language. BATTLEBORN STATS STATS ADR1FT PUBLISHER GAMEMILL ENT. GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 10/25/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME The latest in the popular big-game hunting series features all-new whitetail deer and moose excursions. Each adventure consists of three separate treks with five sites each, meaning players are in for hours of hunting action. Six bonus levels, point-boosting “Dangerous” targets, leaderboards, and unlockable badges and achievements add an extra layer of depth to this game. Hunting parties of two can even team up for local turn-based play and head-to-head competitions. WHO’S IT FOR Big Buck Hunter Arcade is appropriate for hunting enthusiasts 13 and over. STATS BRAVELY SECOND: END LAYER PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 4/15/16 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME This strategy-focused follow-up to the acclaimed Bravely Default evolves the popular RPG franchise with a number of new features, fresh characters and epic story elements. Enhanced combat mechanics show real depth, while a sophisticated job system allows players to freely mix and match 30 different professions. An absorbing visual style, screen-filling foes, spot-on controls and an intuitive interface nicely complement this deep and rewarding gameplay experience. WHO’S IT FOR Bravely Second: End Layer is intended for adventurers 13 and over. STATS DESTINY: RISE OF IRON PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE RPG RELEASE 11/29/16 40 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME The latest core entry in the legendary action/role-playing franchise delivers the series’ biggest, boldest adventure yet, one that’s been 10 years in the making. Set in an all-new, breathtaking world that blurs the line between fantasy and reality, FFXV features a stunning visual presentation, an engaging cast of characters, open-world exploration and action-cranking combat encounters. Whether you’re new to the series or are returning for your 15th romp, this current-generationpowered offering promises to be the franchise’s most epic ever. WHO’S IT FOR Final Fantasy XV is aimed at adventurers 13 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES PUBLISHER ACTIVISION GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 9/20/16 ABOUT THE GAME Brimming with content for Destiny fans of all stripes, the latest major expansion to Bungie’s sci-fi social shooter introduces fresh stories, locales, weapons and characters. Those craving a new narrative arc will want to dive into the cinematic campaign, while co-op fans can tear into a new 3-player Strike and 6-player cooperative Raid. Gamers who prefer blasting their buddies will appreciate the player-vs-player Crucible and its fresh maps, as well as all-new mode Supremacy. WHO’S IT FOR Destiny: Rise of Iron is suitable for shooter fans 13 and over. DIGIMON STORY: CYBER SLEUTH STATS STATS FINAL FANTASY XV SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS MMO PUBLISHER BANDAI NAMCO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 2/2/16 SYSTEMS PS4, VITA PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Featuring 200-plus Digimon from the popular animated series, Cyber Sleuth unravels a complex mystery with a solution lying somewhere between the real and digital worlds. Budding detectives will scan, raise and battle their growing army of faithful Digimon as they explore the land, engage in dangerous turn-based encounters and solve puzzles to crack the Digi-case. Players craving spirited competition can even invite friends to battle them in a player-vs-player online mode. WHO’S IT FOR Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is suitable for fans 13 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER BANDAI NAMCO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 10/25/16 MEGADIMENSION NEPTUNIA VII SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-6 ABOUT THE GAME Powered by the polygon-pushing technology of current consoles and PCs, this sequel features upgraded visuals and the biggest Dragonball universe to date. On top of the eye-popping makeover, Dragonball Xenoverse 2 features new characters and boss encounters, additional customization options and a hub city that’s seven times larger than the last game’s. Online play for up to six players and an epic time-traveling story line round out this fan-pleasing package. WHO’S IT FOR Dragonball Xenoverse 2 is geared toward gamers 13 and over. STATS STATS DRAGONBALL XENOVERSE 2 PUBLISHER IDEA FACTORY GENRE RPG RELEASE 2/2/16 PUBLISHER EA GENRE FIGHTING RELEASE 3/15/16 METROID PRIME: FEDERATION FORCE SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME UFC fans will want to hit the Octagon for this visceral, fist-to-face take on mixed martial arts. Featuring real-life fighters such as Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor, EA Sports UFC 2 leverages realistic physics, dynamic animations, and advanced character modeling and motion capture tech to deliver the most in depth MMA experience this side of a cage. Players can duke it out against the AI or unleash their lethal limbs against friends online. WHO’S IT FOR EA Sports UFC 2 is intended for aspiring champions age 13 and over. PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 8/19/16 MIRROR’S EDGE CATALYST SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Assuming the role of a fully customizable avatar, players command a massive army over the course of an epic campaign that will see their loyalties split between two factions. Overseeing armored knights, powerful mages, skilled archers and other strategic units, players must master the game’s sophisticated turn-based battle system to turn the tide of war in their favor. When weapons fail, diplomatic players can recruit allies to do their bidding on the battlefield. WHO’S IT FOR Fire Emblem Fates is intended for gamers 13 and over. PUBLISHER EA GENRE PLATFORM RELEASE 6/7/16 PUBLISHER SCEA GENRE ACTION RELEASE 2/2/16 MONSTER HUNTER GENERATIONS SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER CAPCOM GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 7/15/16 ABOUT THE GAME The latest chapter in Capcom’s popular beast-slaying series has players protecting four different villages from the Fated Four, the franchise’s most menacing monsters yet. Thankfully, fans have access to powerful new features, such as “Styles and Hunter Arts,” that allow them to customize the experience. Hundreds of quests can be tackled in solo mode, but those who’d rather cooperate can join up to three other creature-crushing fans in special multiplayer quests. WHO’S IT FOR Monster Hunter Generations is suitable for brave hunters 13 and over. SYSTEMS PS4, PS VITA PLAYERS 1 STATS STATS PUBLISHER SEGA GENRE RHYTHM RELEASE 8/30/16 SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: ULTIMATE NINJA STORM 4 HATSUNE MIKU: PROJECT DIVA X ABOUT THE GAME Take the stage as Miku, the digital worlds most fabulous singer-dancer, on a beat-filled journey across five distinct cloud worlds: Classic, Cool, Cute, Elegant and Quirky. Featuring more than 30 tracks, hundreds of glittery costumes and an awesome selection of slick accessories, Project Diva X is packed with opportunities to perform tunes and customize characters. To manage the music-making magic, dive into Concert Editor mode to produce your own spectacular shows. WHO’S IT FOR Hatsune Miku: Project Diva X is intended for rising stars 13 and over. SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME A current-generation re-imagining of the cult-favorite, first-person runner Mirror’s Edge, Catalyst has players assume the role of the fleet-footed Faith. Battling for her freedom against a Big Brother-like government, Faith must take to the rooftops to sprint, jump, dive and slide through a futuristic adventure that calls on players to master her agility and her combat skills. A new upgrade system further allows users to shape their play style to stealth, action or somewhere in between. WHO’S IT FOR Mirror’s Edge Catalyst is appropriate for runner recruits 13 and over. STATS STATS GRAVITY RUSH REMASTERED ABOUT THE GAME One of the best games to grace the PS Vita’s portable screen can now be enjoyed on your PS4. Remastered to take advantage of the hardware’s greater power with enhanced visuals and a number of performance boosts, Gravity Rush puts players in the role of Kat, a brave young girl on a quest to recover her memory and save the world. With a focus on gravity-defying powers, the clever gameplay mechanics put a fresh spin on the action genre. WHO’S IT FOR Gravity Rush Remastered is suitable for gamers 13 and over. SYSTEM 3DS PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME A fresh chapter in Nintendo’s fan-favorite franchise, Federation Force is a 4-player co-op shooter that puts a new spin on the classic series. Most notably, it places players in the cockpits of powerful Mech suits, each possessing special skills, weapons and abilities. Behind these mechanized behemoths, teams will take on massive bosses, tackle objectives and compete quests. Players can also take a break from the galaxy-saving action with “Blast Ball,” a fast-paced mini-game. WHO’S IT FOR Metroid Prime: Federation Force is aimed at space adventurers 13 and over. STATS STATS FIRE EMBLEM FATES PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE STRATEGY-RPG RELEASE 2/19/16 ABOUT THE GAME The cult-favorite role-playing series Neptunia finally lands on the PS4, treating fans to a sprawling experience that includes new characters, three worlds in need of saving and a game-changing transformation mode that promises to turn the tables on the battlefield. Unfolding over three separate stories, this epic adventure also features an enhanced battle system and a new, Spelunker-inspired mini-game that lets brave players loose in a dangerous dungeon loaded with awesome loot. WHO’S IT FOR Megadimension Neptunia VII is suitable for dungeon-crawlers 13 and over. STATS STATS EA SPORTS UFC 2 SYSTEMS PS4, PC PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER BANDAI NAMCO GENRE ACTION RELEASE 2/9/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME The epic Naruto Shippuden storyline comes to a close in the action-packed series’ biggest and best entry yet. Fluid gameplay, enhanced visuals and tons of ninja-battling content combine to deliver epic encounters between fan-favorite heroes and fearsome foes. After participating in the final arc’s most thrilling battles, players can continue their journey beyond the anime’s narrative in Adventure mode, where new quests and fights await within a faithful recreation of Hidden Leaf Village. WHO’S IT FOR Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 is for fans 13 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES 41 game directory STAR OCEAN: INTEGRITY AND FAITHLESSNESS PUBLISHER HELLO GAMES GENRE ACTION RELEASE 8/9/16 ABOUT THE GAME Unfolding in a near-infinite, procedurally generated galaxy, No Man’s Sky is an ambitious, awe-inspiring sci-fi adventure with a heavy focus on crafting, exploration and survival. This epic journey through space — and the mysterious lands beneath it — lets brave players soar through the stars, scavenging for supplies, discovering alien species, dog-fighting among asteroids, setting foot on uncharted planets and doing whatever it takes to live another day and, ultimately, find the center of the galaxy. WHO’S IT FOR No Man’s Sky is for star pilots 13 and over. PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE RPG RELEASE 6/28/16 RECORE PUBLISHER MICROSOFT GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 9/13/16 SYSTEMS PS4, PS3 PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME With its futuristic science-fiction setting, the Star Ocean RPGs have garnered popularity for its fast-paced combat and deep stories. An exclusive to PlayStation platforms, Integrity and Faithlessness is the latest in the long-running series. Players control a party of space-trekking adventurers as they increase their levels and power throughout the game’s hundreds of fluid and seamless combat encounters. WHO’S IT FOR Star Ocean: Integrity and Faithlessness’ epic role-playing is suitable for players 13 and over. STREET FIGHTER V SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 STATS STATS ABOUT THE RATING: TEEN Content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. May contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/ or infrequent use of strong language. SYSTEMS PS4, PC PLAYERS 1 STATS STATS NO MAN’S SKY ABOUT THE GAME In ReCore, players take on the role of Joule Adams, a hero awakened after hundreds of years of frozen sleep. She and her robotic dog-like companion face a post-apocalyptic world as they seek to find out what happened and try to rescue mankind from the edge of total annihilation. You’ll fight off enemies using a semi-complex color-coded combat system and a mixture of light-platforming elements to help mix up the gameplay. WHO’S IT FOR ReCore’s post-apocalyptic action is suitable for players 13 and over. PUBLISHER CAPCOM GENRE FIGHTING RELEASE 2/16/16 SYSTEMS PS4, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME New numbered Street Fighter games are rare. Nearly 30 years after the series debuted in 1987, we’re only just now reaching its fifth entry. Staying true to the 2D side-scrolling fighting system, Capcom has delivered another intense fighter. Elements from previous games return, but are finely polished. You’ll also find many iconic characters and game modes. This is a game all about duking it out against your friends, so its focus on multiplayer, competitive play is where it shines brightest. WHO’S IT FOR Street Fighter V’s focus on violent combat is suitable for players 13 and over. STATS TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANTS IN MANHATTAN PUBLISHER ACTIVISION GENRE ACTION RELEASE 5/24/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME Jump into this action-packed beat-’em-up as one of the four iconic heroes in a half-shell: Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael. Each turtle has his own special powers and when playing alone, players can switch between characters at will. When playing online, you can have all four of the heroes on-screen at once. Each level features a variety of enemies and a big boss at the end to really test your skills. WHO’S IT FOR Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan’s turtle power action is suitable for players 13 and over. STATS TERRARIA PUBLISHER BLIZZARD ENT. GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 5/24/16 42 SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PS4, PC PLAYERS 1-12 ABOUT THE GAME Overwatch is a team-based, first-person shooter in which two teams of six players each face off. Players choose from a large selection of heroes that fulfill one of four different roles: Offense, Defense, Tank and Support. Players work together to defend and attack objectives against the other team. Overwatch encourages teamwork and understanding your role. Since it doesn’t emphasize individual scores, it’s one of the most positive examples of a competitive online multiplayer game. However, it requires an internet connection, as it is online only. WHO’S IT FOR Overwatch’s intense combat and themes are suitable for players 13 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES PUBLISHER 505 GAMES GENRE ACTION RELEASE 6/28/16 ABOUT THE GAME If you take the idea of Minecraft, make it a 2D side-scrolling game and add some elements from other series such as Metroid and Castlevania, you have Terraria. This game combines the joy of exploration with retro-pixelated graphics to create something that feels both fresh and familiar. Players can join friends or play alone to craft, create, and collect hundreds of items and resources across a randomly generated planet. No two games are ever the same. WHO’S IT FOR Terraria’s creations are suitable for players ages 13 and older. THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV STATS STATS OVERWATCH SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, WII U, VITA, 3DS, XBOX 360, PS 3, PC PLAYERS 1-4 PUBLISHER ATLUS GENRE FIGHTING RELEASE 8/23/16 SYSTEMS PS4 PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME Despite the title, if you count re-releases and updates, there are well over 14 The King of Fighters games. In a surprising twist, The King of Fighters XIV is the first to feature full 3D-modeled characters, as opposed to the 2D ones used previously. This latest iteration features 50 different characters, each with their own fighting styles and attacks, and a renewed focus on making the game easy to play and fun to master. WHO’S IT FOR The King of Fighters XIV’s focus on violent fighting is suitable for players 13 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER SONY GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 12/06/16 SYSTEMS PS4 PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME A spiritual successor to cult classics ICO and Shadow of the Colossus, The Last Guardian puts players in control of a boy who is accompanied by a large creature named Trico. You’ll form a bond with your beast-like companion, as you adventure together and protect one another from harm. First announced back in 2009, this is one of the most hotly anticipated PlayStation games of all time. WHO’S IT FOR The Last Guardian’s fantasy violence and action is suitable for players 13 and over. PUBLISHER SONY GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 5/10/16 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: TWILIGHT PRINCESS HD PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 3/04/16 VALKYRIA CHRONICLES REMASTERED SYSTEMS WII U PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME As a remastered, HD update to The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, this Wii U iteration shows a marked visual improvement over the original game. Players control the main character, Link, on his quest to retrieve the Master Sword, rescue Princess Zelda, save Hyrule and prevent the Triforce from falling into the hands of the evil Ganondorf. This entry in the iconic series features a more mature tone and intense combat, with dozens of items to acquire and dungeons to explore. WHO’S IT FOR The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD’s intense action is suitable for players 13 and over. PUBLISHER SEGA GENRE STRAGETY/RPG RELEASE 5/17/16 WORLD OF WARCRAFT: LEGION SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Take control of Metallia, a powerful swamp witch on a quest to defeat your rival Malia, the forest witch. Since Metallia cannot leave the swamp, she charges you, the Hundred Knight, with extending the reach of her swamp so she can carry out her will. The game’s top-down perspective and fast-paced gameplay keeps the action exciting and dynamic. WHO’S IT FOR The Witch and the Hundred Knight: Revival Edition’s fantasy violence is suitable for players 13 and over. PUBLISHER BLIZZARD ENT. GENRE MMORPG RELEASE 8/30/16 PUBLISHER NINTENDO GENRE RPG RELEASE 6/24/16 WWE 2K17 SYSTEMS WII U PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER 2K GENRE SPORTS RELEASE 10/11/16 44 SYSTEMS PC PLAYERS 1-2 WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES ABOUT THE GAME WWE 2K17 is aiming to make 2017’s installment the biggest and best wrestling title to date. Featuring more than 150 playable superstars from the past, present and NXT eras, WWE 2K17 is keeping up with its ambitions. Packed with tons of modes and more improvements than you can body slam, it’s also the most comprehensive WWE game to ever grace a console. This is shaping up to be the most painstakingly detailed digital re-creation of America’s most over-the-top sport. WHO’S IT FOR WWE 2K17’s violence is best suited to gamers 13 and over. STATS STATS PUBLISHER SEGA GENRE STRATEGY RELEASE 5/24/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, XBOX 360, PC PLAYERS 1-4 XCOM 2 TOTAL WAR: WARHAMMER ABOUT THE GAME A spinoff of the popular Total War series, Total War: Warhammer marries the iconic PC strategy game franchise with Game Workshop’s classic Warhammer tabletop game. Featuring a cast of factions and characters ranging from vampires to dwarves, this epic strategy title offers something for everyone. Featuring an unprecedented level of detail and unit variety, Total War: Warhammer is one of the most exciting fictional worlds to come to life on the virtual battlefield. WHO’S IT FOR Total War: Warhammer’s epic strategy action is suitable for players 13 and over. SYSTEMS PC, MAC PLAYERS MMO ABOUT THE GAME The sixth expansion for World of Warcraft, the most popular MMORPG, is finally here. World of Warcraft: Legion raises the level cap from 100 to 110, features new artifact weapons and class specializations, and a fresh area named the Broken Isles. This expansion introduces a new class known as the Demon Hunter, which begins the game at level 98 for quicker leveling. Finally, this expansion also introduces 10 new 5-person dungeons and two new raids. Goodbye, sleep. WHO’S IT FOR World of Warcraft: Legion’s loot grind is suitable for players 13 and over. STATS STATS TOKYO MIRAGE SESSIONS #FE ABOUT THE GAME Envisioned as a crossover between the popular Fire Emblem and Shin Megami Tensei franchises, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is an epic collaborative RPG project. The game takes place in a pseudo-modern Tokyo setting and retains the original Japanese voiceover work with English subtitles. The massive, sprawling role-playing game features an innovative and unique combat system and a complex story involving mirages from the aforementioned Fire Emblem game series. WHO’S IT FOR Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE’s complex combat and setting is suitable for players 13 and over. SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME A strategy/RPG set in a fictional early 1900s world doesn’t sound like an obvious choice for a game, but sometimes taking a gamble pays off. The award-winning Valkyria Chronicles is now getting a proper upgrade with Valkyria Chronicles Remastered on PlayStation 4. This version runs at 1080p and 60 frames per second, with both Japanese and English audio voice acting, as well as all of the original game’s downloadable content. WHO’S IT FOR Valkyria Chronicles Remastered’s tactical mechanics are suitable for players 13 and over. STATS STATS THE WITCH AND THE HUNDRED KNIGHT: REVIVAL EDITION PUBLISHER NIS AMERICA GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 03/04/16 SYSTEM PS4 PLAYERS 1-10 ABOUT THE GAME This is the big finale for Nathan Drake, the heroic main character from Sony and Naughty Dog’s critically acclaimed Uncharted series. After hanging up the gun belt and half-tucked T-shirt for the last time, Drake begins Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End by getting pulled back out into the world for one last adventure. Beyond the single-player campaign, a fully featured multiplayer component varied game modes keeps the world of Uncharted alive just a bit longer. WHO’S IT FOR Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End’s action-packed adventure is suitable for players 13 and over. STATS STATS ABOUT THE RATING: TEEN Content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. May contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/ or infrequent use of strong language. UNCHARTED 4: A THIEF’S END STATS STATS THE LAST GUARDIAN PUBLISHER 2K GENRE STRATEGY RELEASE 9/27/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME You’re the commander of the world’s military forces in the wake of a devastating alien invasion. Do your best impression of the heroes from Independence Day as you rally your forces and take back the planet. Gameplay takes place from a grid-based tactical perspective, where you must issue orders to each of your individual troops. With a grueling permanent death system, every move counts. Upgrade your stronghold and wage war on the invading extraterrestrials in one of the most robust strategy games in years. WHO’S IT FOR XCOM 2 is suitable for players 13 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 11/15/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME A sprawling collection of three action-adventure epics, this content-packed offering includes Assassin’s Creed II, Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood and Assassin’s Creed: Revelations. Encompassing the entire story arc of the series’ iconic hero, Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the collection follows the protagonist’s rise from young assassin to legendary leader. With the core single-player campaign content and an upgraded visual presentation, added narrative-expanding bonus films make this a must-play for serious fans of the defining throat-slitting series. WHO’S IT FOR Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection is suitable for fans 17 and over. PUBLISHER TELLTALE GAMES GENRE ADVENTURE RELEASE 8/02/16 PUBLISHER KOEI TECMO AMERICA GENRE ACTION RELEASE 8/30/16 ABOUT THE GAME Similar to Telltale Games’ previous story-driven, episodic adventure games, Batman: The Telltale Series focuses more on emotional, tense character encounters than twitchy action. Spending half the game as the Bat’s billionaire alter-ego Bruce Wayne, players steer and shape individual interactions, as well as the five-episode season’s larger narrative. Graphic novel-inspired visuals and a cast of iconic friends and foes complement this cerebral take on cleaning up Gotham’s streets. WHO’S IT FOR Batman: The Telltale Series is suitable for mature bat-fans age 17 and over. STATS SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PS3, VITA, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Based on the wildly popular anime series of the same name, Attack on Titan tasks brave players with protecting humanity from towering, screen-filling foes. Lightning-quick combat encounters, stunning animations, and over-the-top moves, skills and powers complement the central man-versus-behemoth battles. Best of all, especially for faithful fans of the show, this action-ratcheting adaptation extends beyond the series to introduce completely new narrative elements. WHO’S IT FOR Attack on Titan is aimed at fans 17 and over. SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 BIOSHOCK: THE COLLECTION ATTACK ON TITAN STATS ABOUT THE RATING MATURE Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language. BATMAN: THE TELLTALE SERIES STATS STATS ASSASSIN’S CREED: THE EZIO COLLECTION PUBLISHER 2K GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 9/13/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME This re-mastered collection of the critically acclaimed BioShock series bundles the groundbreaking original game, as well as its sequel and BioShock: Infinite. On top of improved frame-rates, refined textures and enhanced art assets, the collection includes an all-new director’s commentary and all previously released single-player extra episodes. Whether under the sea or above the clouds, there’s never been a better way to play these genre-shaping classics. WHO’S IT FOR BioShock: The Collection is suitable for players 17 and over. STATS CALL OF DUTY: INFINITE WARFARE PUBLISHER ACTIVISION GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 11/4/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-18 ABOUT THE GAME Activision’s annual first-person shooter franchise sets its latest global conflict among the stars. The galaxy-spanning single-player campaign features everything fans expect from the series while introducing fresh features, such as zero-gravity combat. A variety of multiplayer modes encourages fans to engage in epic battles, while a dedicated cooperative zombie campaign charges them with surviving the undead apocalypse. WHO’S IT FOR Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare features realistic combat and is appropriate for shooter fans 17 and over. STATS DARK SOULS III PUBLISHER EA GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 10/18/16 46 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-64 ABOUT THE GAME Electronic Arts’ and DICE studio’s flagship first-person shooter forgoes the familiar modern warfare trappings for a trip to the brutal, gritty trenches of World War I. The game spans a story-driven, single-player campaign and multiple online modes that host up to 64 combatants. Battlefield 1 blends authentic weapons, era-specific transports — including horses, bi-planes, tanks, Zeppelins, battleships and armored trains — screen-rattling destruction effects and brutal hand-to-hand trench warfare to deliver the medium’s most immersive land, air, sea encounters. WHO’S IT FOR Battlefield 1 is intended for shooter fans 17 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES PUBLISHER BANDAI NAMCO GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 4/12/16 ABOUT THE GAME The notoriously taxing role-playing game returns for a third round of player-punishing exploration and monster-slaying action. Set in a rich fantasy universe, Dark Souls III complements its challenging magic and melee gameplay with enhanced combat mechanics, character growth options and the ability to help — or hurt — other players. Of course, it’s the series’ show-stopping boss encounters that will leave your thumbs numbed and nightmares fueled. WHO’S IT FOR Dark Souls III is for adventurers 17 and over. DEAD ISLAND: DEFINITIVE COLLECTION STATS STATS BATTLEFIELD 1 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER DEEP SILVER GENRE ACTION RELEASE 5/31/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME The original Dead Island and its sorta-sequel, Dead Island: Riptide, have been bundled into one massive, blood-soaked, visually remastered package. Enhanced textures, improved lighting and an overall bump in image quality make every brain-bashing animation pop off the screen. In addition to the zombie-slaughtering titles, this collection comes with all previously released DLC and a new 16 bit-inspired side-scrolling bonus game, Dead Island Retro Revenge. WHO’S IT FOR Dead Island: Definitive Collection is suitable for zombie hunters 17 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options HOW DIGITAL DOWNLOAD WORKS Select a digital download card from the latest participating game titles available on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4... Purchase your digital download card at the register... ENTER CODE TOTAL Redeem the code printed on your receipt in your game console to download (when available) and then Play First without returning to the store! ENTER CODE Keep your receipt and locate the download code printed at the bottom... TOTAL game directory PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE ACTION/RPG RELEASE 8/23/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Building on the brilliant mix of stealth-action and role-playing introduced in Deus Ex: Human Revolution, this highly ambitious sequel lets players control augmented protagonist Adam Jensen. Whether hacking terminals, sneaking in the shadows or filling foes full of smoking holes, Mankind Divided’s futuristic arsenal of weapons and gadgets can be shaped to support any play style. A cinema-rivaling story and bonus Breach mode round out this highly-interactive, sometimes cerebral romp. WHO’S IT FOR Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is intended for gamers 17 and over. PUBLISHER BETHESDA SOFTWORKS GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 5/13/16 DISHONORED 2 PUBLISHER BETHESDA SOFTWORKS GENRE ACTION RELEASE 11/11/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME The granddaddy of the first-person-shooter genre returns with a vengeance, giving fans the demon-slaughtering skills and weapons of a space marine trapped on Mars. Sporting a cinematic, adrenaline-spiking single-player campaign, as well as multiple opportunities to tear up your buddies in online matches, Doom brings classic FPS action to current-generation consoles. An innovative new mode, SnapMap, allows budding designers to craft their very own monster-mutilating levels and missions. WHO’S IT FOR Like the legendary original, Doom is bloody and brutal and is intended for shooter fans 17 and over. FAR CRY PRIMAL SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 STATS STATS ABOUT THE RATING MATURE Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language. DOOM STATS STATS DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED ABOUT THE GAME Set in a richly realized steampunk world, Dishonored 2 puts players behind the menacing mask of supernatural assassin Corvo Atano. With a sophisticated arsenal of slick gadgets, lethal weapons and otherworldly powers, players progress through the highly cinematic campaign stealthily, with extreme force or somewhere in between. Best of all, the sequel allows fans to tackle its story-driven adventure as Corvo’s equally deadly daughter Emily. WHO’S IT FOR Dishonored 2 is suitable for stealth-action fans 17 and over. PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE ACTION RELEASE 2/23/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME The defining open-world first-person shooter series trades its arsenal of guns and grenades for ancient spears and poison darts during the Stone Age. As the lone survivor of a hunting group, players scavenge for supplies, craft weapons and take down enemy tribes. Boasting some of the franchise’s most impressive encounters, Far Cry Primal pits players against screen-consuming creatures such as mammoths and especially aggressive foes, including saber-toothed tigers. WHO’S IT FOR Far Cry Primal is suitable for hunters 17 and over. STATS HOMEFRONT: THE REVOLUTION PUBLISHER DEEP SILVER GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 5/17/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME Set in Philadelphia in 2029, Homefront: The Revolution’s scary-real, fiction story finds a foreign, freedom-hating superpower occupying the City of Brotherly Love. Leading a ragtag group of guerrilla fighters, players must use their wits and makeshift weapons to regain independence. On top of the dramatic, character-driven open-world campaign, Homefront features a Resistance mode in which teams of four cooperate to fight for their freedom. WHO’S IT FOR Homefront: The Revolution is intended for freedom fighters 17 and over. STATS MAFIA III PUBLISHER MICROSOFT GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 10/3/16 48 SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-5 ABOUT THE GAME The fourth numbered entry in the gore-soaked, heart-pounding, third-person action-shooter series harnesses all the horses beneath the Xbox One’s hood to deliver the most cinematic, visceral and epic Gears campaign so far. Players can unleash their chainsaw-equipped hand-cannons on friends in competitive-multiplayer matches and in the fan-favorite Horde mode. The latter charges up to five brave COG soldiers with surviving as long as they can against endless, unrelenting waves of increasingly strong baddies. Make sure you wear a raincoat to protect against the blood. WHO’S IT FOR Gears of War 4 is suitable for COG recruits 17 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES PUBLISHER 2K GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 10/7/16 ABOUT THE GAME Set in a richly realized New Orleans-inspired open-world, Mafia III tells the dramatic story of Lincoln Clay, a Vietnam vet turned vengeance-fueled antihero. For players, this means making the most of street smarts, fists, guns and tons of explosives to take on the Italian Mafia and rise to the top of the criminal food chain. Thanks to current-generation visuals, top-notch performances and sky-high production values, Mafia III is the closet thing you’ll experience to an interactive version of Goodfellas. WHO’S IT FOR Mafia III is intended for gamers 17 and over. QUANTUM BREAK STATS STATS GEARS OF WAR 4 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 PUBLISHER MICROSOFT GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 4/05/16 SYSTEMS XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Part interactive thriller and part action-packed, third-person shooter with time-manipulating elements, Quantum Break is a blockbuster exclusive to Microsoft platforms. Main character Jack Joyce uses manipulates times to prevent the end of time. An integrated live-action television show featuring the actors from the game continues the player-influenced narrative. WHO’S IT FOR Quantum Break’s intense violence and mature themes are best suited for players 17 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options game directory PUBLISHER SQUARE ENIX GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 10/11/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-2 ABOUT THE GAME In Rise of the Tomb Raider, players control Lara Croft as she ventures into Siberia to track down a lost city, fighting enemies along the way. Originally released in late 2015 exclusively for the Xbox One and Xbox 360, it’s now available for the PC and PS4. In the 20 Year Celebration version, players can enjoy the entire tomb-raiding, cliff-climbing adventure, as well as the new Blood Ties content expansion and a cooperative multiplayer mode. WHO’S IT FOR Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration’s violence and visual realism is only suitable for players 17 and over. PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 3/08/16 PUBLISHER ATLUS GENRE RPG RELEASE 9/20/16 PUBLISHER BANDAI NAMCO GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 9/23/16 WARHAMMER: END TIMES – VERMINTIDE SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Be a sword-wielding orc, a spell-slinging elf or even a bow-and-arrow-shooting imperial in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Special Edition. This update to one of the most critically acclaimed RPGs now runs on current-generation consoles and contains a slew of visual and performance enhancements. The Special Edition also includes all of the game’s DLC to further enhance an already amazing game. WHO’S IT FOR The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Special Edition’s violence and mature themes are suitable for players 17 and over. PUBLISHER THQ NORDIC GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 10/04/16 ABOUT THE GAME Futuristic sci-fi settings are gaining popularity, and The Technomancer takes full advantage of that trend. You control Zachariah on an adventure some 200 years after humans have colonized Mars. As a technomancer, you have the power to magically control and manipulate technology. During your journey across the red planet, you’ll customize and level up Zachariah as you make decisions that shape not only his future, but the future of Mars as well. WHO’S IT FOR The Technomancer’s intense action and tactical gameplay is only suitable for players 17 and over. PUBLISHER UBISOFT GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 11/15/16 YAKUZA 0 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-12 ABOUT THE GAME As a follow-up to 2014’s Titanfall, the sequel features faster, more intense and more bombastic shooting action. When you’re not running along walls, flying around with your jetpack or gunning down enemies, you’ll be piloting an enormous Titan — a powerful mech that packs massive firepower. This time around, the game also features a full single-player campaign, rather than being restricted to only multiplayer gameplay. WHO’S IT FOR Titanfall 2’s violent gameplay is only suitable for players 17 and over. WALMART PARENTS GUIDE TO VIDEO GAMES SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1-4 ABOUT THE GAME Watch Dogs 2 moves the setting of the original game from Chicago to San Francisco. You control hacker Marcus Holloway, who works with the underground group DedSec to take down the city’s advanced surveillance network. You can play solo or online in both cooperative and competitive formats. Watch Dogs 2 puts a heavy emphasis on illegal activity such as stealing and murder, while addressing topics such as governmental surveillance and privacy concerns. WHO’S IT FOR Watch Dogs 2’s mature subject matter is only suitable for players 17 and over. STATS STATS 50 ABOUT THE GAME The vast majority of online multiplayer games pit players against one another, but in Warhammer: End Times – Vermintide, you’ll spend your hours fighting side-by-side with up to three friends against the rat-like Skaven creatures. As you beat back the waves of enemies, you can upgrade your gear. The wonderfully gory and bloody combat is a big part of the fun. WHO’S IT FOR Warhammer: End Times – Verminitide’s bloody combat is suitable only for players 17 and over. STATS STATS SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 TITANFALL 2 PUBLISHER EA GENRE SHOOTER RELEASE 10/28/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS ONLINE MULTIPLAYER ONLY WATCH DOGS 2 THE TECHNOMANCER PUBLISHER FOCUS HOME INTERACTIVE GENRE ACTION/ ADVENTURE RELEASE 6/28/16 SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS ONLINE MULTIPLAYER ONLY ABOUT THE GAME The Warhammer universe has a storied history and is teeming with content worth exploring. Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade takes all that lore and puts it into a pseudo-MMO that pits player-driven teams against one another while battling across the planet of Arkhona. Gameplay consists of cover-based shooting similar to the Gears of War or Uncharted game franchises. WHO’S IT FOR Valkyria Chronicles Remastered’s tactical battles are suitable for players 17 and over. STATS STATS THE ELDER SCROLLS V: SKYRIM – SPECIAL EDITION PUBLISHER BETHESDA SOFTWORKS GENRE RPG RELEASE 10/28/16 ABOUT THE GAME Tom Clancy’s The Division is a gritty and realistic post-apocalyptic, third-person shooter set in a near-future New York City following a smallpox outbreak. Players team up to face off against bandits and other enemies aiming to benefit from the suffering of others. You acquire better gear throughout the game by completing missions, and when you’re strong enough, you can even venture into a contested zone that’s focused on player-versus-player combat. WHO’S IT FOR Tom Clancy’s The Division’s realistic violence is suitable for players 17 and over. STATS SYSTEMS 3DS PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse is a prequel to 2013’s Shin Megami Tensei IV, taking place 25 years earlier. The game focuses on a massive war between angels and demons that destroyed Tokyo. The mature storyline pits players against all sides of the war as they decide which factions to align with. The complex combat system highlights this massive roleplaying adventure, which lasts dozens of hours. WHO’S IT FOR Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse’s complex gameplay and mature themes are for players 17 and over. SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS ONLINE MULTIPLAYER ONLY WARHAMMER 40,000: ETERNAL CRUSADE SHIN MEGAMI TENSEI IV: APOCALYPSE STATS ABOUT THE RATING MATURE Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language. TOM CLANCY’S THE DIVISION STATS STATS RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER: 20 YEAR CELEBRATION PUBLISHER SEGA GENRE ACTION, ADVENTURE, OPEN-WORLD RELEASE 12/08/16 (JP) SYSTEMS PS4, XBOX ONE, PC PLAYERS 1 ABOUT THE GAME The best way to make light of a situation as heavy as Japan’s Yakuza clan is to fuse the concept with gratuitous, over-the-top, arcade-style action that is clearly a video game. In the sixth entry of this long-running franchise, you’ll once again take on the criminal underworld and fight off hordes of enemies, or take the battle to the arcade, where a variety of game cabinets await. WHO’S IT FOR Yakuza 0’s over-the-top violence is only suitable for players 17 and over. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Check out Walmart.com for more options