The Callisto Protocol is a survival-horror game from the developers of Dead Space
The Callisto Protocol is a survival-horror game from the developers of Dead Space Striking Distance Studios

KEY POINTS

  • "Callisto Protocol" will launch Friday
  • The "Crisis Core" remake will feature voiced English and Japanese dialogue
  • "Dwarf Fortress" is coming to Steam on Dec. 6

There are several stellar game releases slated for the holiday season this year, and they're set to wrap up a turbulent year for gaming filled with the highest of highs and newfound lows.

Fans across a number of genres have some hard-hitters to look forward to this month. Here are some of the most anticipated releases coming this December.

"Callisto Protocol" – Dec. 2

Uncover the truth behind the horrific events that befell the Black Iron Prison in "Callisto Protocol," the spiritual successor of the "Dead Space" series made by members of the original Visceral Games team.

Play as Jacob Lee, a pilot turned prisoner who must use everything at his disposal to fight against the monstrous Biophages in a combat system that seamlessly mixes gunplay and fluent melee brawling.

"High On Life" – Dec. 13

From the mind of Justin Roiland comes this first-person action-adventure game set in a weird world filled with wacky characters. Players are put in the boots of a fresh high school graduate who must save the world from alien invaders that want to turn humans into drugs.

Collect an arsenal of talking guns and explore a Metroidvania-esque world where every upgrade unlocks a new path.

High on Life features aliens, talking guns and more bizarre features
High on Life features aliens, talking guns and more bizarre features Squanch Games

"Crisis Core Remake" – Dec. 13

Relive the story of Zack Fair and the events that lead to the main story of "Final Fantasy 7" with "Crisis Core," which will play on Square Enix's latest game engine with all of the graphical improvements that come with it.

Fans of the original can expect an improved combat system as well as fully-voiced dialogue lines in both English and Japanese.

"Marvel's Midnight Suns" – Dec. 2

Team up with some of Marvel's most iconic superheroes in "Midnight Suns," a turn-based tactical RPG from the makers of "XCOM 2."

Gather a team from the supernatural side of the Marvel universe and take the fight to the demon queen Lilith to thwart her attempts at world domination.

"Dwarf Fortress" – Dec. 6

The original dwarven colony management simulator is returning with a new coat of paint and the same level of madness that its fans have come to know and love.

"Dwarf Fortress" is a must-try for any fan of "Rimworld" and all of the chaotic and unpredictable shenanigans it comes with.

Dwarf Fortress UI
Behind Dwarf Fortress' simple graphics is a complicated and chaotic game Bay 12 Games