July 2024 Video Game Releases: The Ultimate Guide to This Month’s Must-Play Titles
The summer gaming season is heating up with an explosive lineup of July 2024 video game releases that will dominate screens worldwide. Following a record-breaking first half of the year that saw titles like Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree and Final Fantasy XVI Rebirth shatter sales records, publishers are unleashing their heavy hitters during what’s traditionally considered a slower season. This July proves the exception with multiple system-selling exclusives, groundbreaking remakes, and surprise Game Pass additions that will keep players glued to their controllers through the dog days of summer.
Nintendo Switch 2’s First Major Exclusive: Donkey Kong Bananza
All eyes are on Nintendo’s next-gen console as Donkey Kong Bananza prepares to swing onto the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17. This isn’t just another platformer – early previews suggest Nintendo EPD has created a genre-defining experience that fully utilizes the Switch 2’s enhanced hardware capabilities. The game features:
– Revolutionary rope physics that transform traditional platforming mechanics
– Four-player cooperative gameplay with unique character abilities
– Over 50 hours of content across eight distinct biomes
– Dynamic weather systems that affect gameplay strategies
– A soundtrack composed by David Wise returning to the franchise
Industry analysts predict Donkey Kong Bananza could move over 3 million Switch 2 units in its launch month alone, making it the must-have title for early adopters. Retailers are already reporting pre-order shortages, with Best Buy and GameStop offering exclusive cosmetic DLC for early purchasers.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4: The Definitive Remake Package
Skateboarding fans rejoice as Activision Blizzard delivers the complete THPS experience with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 launching July 11 across all platforms. This isn’t just a simple remaster – the package includes:
– Fully rebuilt from the ground up using Unreal Engine 5
– All original maps plus six brand-new environments
– Cross-platform multiplayer with ranked competitive modes
– Create-a-Park tools with Steam Workshop integration
– Over 150 licensed tracks spanning punk, hip-hop and alternative
The Game Pass version (available day one) includes exclusive early access to two classic skaters not available in the standard edition. Digital Foundry’s technical analysis shows the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions running at native 4K/120fps, while the Switch version maintains a solid 1080p/60fps in docked mode.
Grounded 2: Obsidian’s Survival Sequel Hits Early Access
Microsoft’s surprise announcement of Grounded 2 coming to Game Pass on July 29 has survival game enthusiasts buzzing. The sequel to 2022’s hit backyard adventure introduces:
– A massive new desert biome with dynamic sandstorms
– Taming and breeding systems for insects
– Full VR support on PC and Xbox Series X
– Co-op campaigns supporting up to eight players
– Procedurally generated backyard layouts
Early access players will get to shape development through regular community updates, with Obsidian promising monthly content drops leading to the full 1.0 release in Q1 2025. The $29.99 early access price includes all future updates and expansions.
Other Notable July 2024 Releases
While the big three dominate headlines, several other titles deserve attention:
Frostpunk 2 (July 25) – The acclaimed survival city-builder returns with larger scales and deeper societal mechanics. Pre-orders include the “Winterhome” scenario pack.
Neon White 2 (July 9) – The speedrunning FPS phenomenon gets a sequel with twice the levels and new movement tech. Switch players get exclusive motion controls.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl (July 19) – After multiple delays, GSC Game World’s atmospheric shooter finally emerges with full DLSS 3.5 support.
Platform Breakdown: Where to Play What
Nintendo Switch 2:
– Donkey Kong Bananza (Exclusive)
– Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 (Cloud Version)
– Neon White 2
Xbox Series X/S:
– All Game Pass titles
– Frostpunk 2 (Smart Delivery)
– S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 (Play Anywhere)
PlayStation 5:
– Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 (DualSense features)
– Frostpunk 2 (Adaptive Trigger support)
– Stellar Blade: New Game+ update (July 30)
PC:
– Best version of all multiplatform titles
– Grounded 2 early access mod support
– Frostpunk 2 mod tools at launch
Pre-Order Bonuses and Special Editions
Smart shoppers can maximize value with these limited offers:
Donkey Kong Bananza Collector’s Edition ($129.99)
– 10″ light-up DK statue
– Steelbook case
– Banana-scented cartridge holder
– Original soundtrack vinyl
Tony Hawk’s Deluxe Edition ($89.99)
– 48-hour early access
– All future DLC packs
– Retro skateboard deck blueprint
Frostpunk 2 Founder’s Pack ($59.99)
– Season pass
– Digital art book
– Exclusive in-game council skins
Game Pass vs. Buying Outright: Cost Analysis
With three major Game Pass additions this month, subscribers get incredible value:
– Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4: $69.99 retail vs. included
– Grounded 2: $29.99 early access vs. included
– Frostpunk 2: $49.99 standard vs. 10% discount
Total savings: $138.97 for Game Pass Ultimate members
July Gaming Hardware Deals
To complement these releases, retailers are offering console bundles:
– Nintendo Switch 2 DK Bundle ($449.99) includes console, game, and exclusive Joy-Con colors
– Xbox Series X Grounded 2 Pack ($499.99) with 1TB SSD expansion
– PS5 Tony Hawk Bundle ($549.99) includes Pulse 3D headset
Expert Predictions: Sales and Impact
Industry analysts forecast:
1. Donkey Kong Bananza will outsell Mario Wonder’s launch month
2. Tony Hawk’s bundle could become July’s best-selling physical release
3. Game Pass may see a 15% subscriber boost from Grounded 2
4. Frostpunk 2 likely to dominate PC strategy charts
Accessibility Features Comparison
Leading titles are raising the bar for inclusive design:
Donkey Kong Bananza:
– Colorblind modes
– Fully remappable controls
– Difficulty sliders for platforming
Tony Hawk’s:
– One-button mode for tricks
– Audio cues for vision impaired
– Slow-motion assist options
Grounded 2:
– Arachnophobia safe mode
– Text-to-speech for menus
– Co-op helper roles
Upcoming DLC and Roadmaps
Post-launch content already confirmed:
– Donkey Kong: Kremling Khaos expansion (Q4 2024)
– Tony Hawk’s: 90s Throwback Park Pack (August)
– Grounded 2: Hive Mind raid content (September)
Regional Release Times and Midnight Launches
Global unlock schedule:
– Donkey Kong: July 17, 12 AM ET (global simultaneous)
– Tony Hawk’s: July 11, local midnight per region
– Grounded 2: July 29, 10 AM PT (rolling launch)
Physical vs. Digital: What to Choose
Consider these factors:
Physical Pros:
– Resale value
– Collector’s items
– No download wait
Digital Pros:
– Pre-loading
– Game sharing
– Instant switching
Performance Benchmarks and Requirements
PC players should note:
Minimum Specs (1080p/60fps):
– GTX 1660 or RX 5600 XT
– 16GB RAM
– SSD strongly recommended
Recommended (1440p/High):
– RTX 3060 Ti or RX 6700 XT
– 32GB RAM
– PCIe 4.0 SSD
Community Events and Launch Celebrations
Join these official activities:
– Donkey Kong: Global speedrun tournament (July 20)
– Tony Hawk’s: #THPS34Challenge on TikTok
– Grounded 2: Twitch Drops campaign
Parental Guide: Age Ratings Breakdown
ESRB/PEGI classifications:
– Donkey Kong Bananza: E10+
– Tony Hawk’s: T (Teen)
– Grounded 2: T (Teen)
– Frostpunk 2: M (Mature)
The Verdict: Must-Buy Recommendations
Based on hands-on previews:
1. Switch 2 owners: Donkey Kong Bananza is essential
2. Game Pass subscribers: All three major titles deliver
3. PC enthusiasts: Frostpunk 2 offers deepest strategy
4. Nostalgia seekers: Tony Hawk’s package satisfies
Pre-order now at Amazon, Best Buy, or directly through console stores to secure launch day delivery and exclusive bonuses. For ongoing coverage of these releases and more, subscribe to our gaming newsletter for weekly updates and insider access.