February isn't quite over, and it still has some big game releases on the way. That said, this episode of New Releases is dipping its toes into March with Dead or Alive 6 and ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove. The remainder of February is home to action-packed titles like Trials Rising and Ape Out, and for something more family-friendly, you can check out The Lego Movie 2 Video Game.
Trials Rising -- February 26
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
For the uninitiated, the Trials series involves steering a motorbike across increasingly insane obstacle courses. Rising takes this action to iconic locations around the world, including Mount Everest and the Eiffel Tower. It also introduces the tandem bike, letting two players try to complete levels together on a single vehicle.
Further Reading:
The Lego Movie 2 Video Game -- February 26
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
Lego video game adaptions adhere to the same gameplay formula: collect studs, build objects, and solve puzzles as multiple characters. This time around, you'll be controlling the cast of The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part. It also includes scenes from the feature film itself.
Ape Out -- February 28
Available on: PC, Switch
As you can see in the screenshot, Ape Out has a striking, colorful art style. What you can't get from the screenshot is its hyper jazz soundtrack. That all complements its violent action: your ape wants to escape, and it'll do that by using guards as meat shields and thrown weapons.
Dead or Alive 6 -- March 1
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Speaking of screenshots, you can see Dead or Alive 6's improved sweat tech above. That comes alongside visible damage and new slow-motion moments during the fight. DOA 6 introduces the new Fatal Reversal mechanic, which stuns your opponent and opens them up to attack. It's also meant to be more accessible to newcomers thanks to the Fatal Rush, a simplified combo that's easy to execute.
Further Reading:
- Dead Or Alive 6 Makes The Franchise More Approachable And Accessible For Newcomers
Dead Or Alive 6 Devs Want The Franchise To Be An Esports Contender
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove -- March 1
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch
ToeJam and Earl haven't seen action since 2003's Mission to Earth, but as the name implies, the hip hop duo is back. This return to form features the same isometric perspective as the Sega Genesis original, plus the rhythm minigame introduced in Panic on Funkotron. You can choose from nine characters and take on this new adventure in four-player co-op too.
Further Reading:
This episode of New Releases already peeked into March, but next week we'll take a look at some of the biggest games the new month will bring, including Devil May Cry 5, Tom Clancy's The Division 2, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
