Games Released in August 2002

200 new games released in August 2002, with PC (Microsoft Windows) being the most active platform. August 29 was the busiest day, with 19 new releases.

Which days had the most releases?

August 29 saw the most activity with 19 releases.

How did each week compare?

The second week of August was the busiest with 55 releases.

Week 3 (August 15–21)

29 releases
Medieval: Total War

Most popular release in Week 3

Medieval: Total War

Experience the middle Ages in all their blood-soaked magnificence. From the lush grasslands of Western Europe to the arid deserts of Northern Africa, from the first Crusade to the fall of Constantinople, implement diplomacy, utilize trade, espionage and assassinations, spread your religion and wage total war in order to expand your influence and secure your reign as you build a dynastic empire to stretch across four centuries. Total War is the follow on from 2000’s Shogun- Total War. As with Shogun the game is split into two sections – the turn-based campaign map wherein the player is required to make strategic decisions, recruit and move armies, besiege settlements, fight naval battles and employ agents such as emissaries, spies and assassins to aid with diplomacy, offer alliances or bribes, or execute rather more clandestine actions. Religion is important in the game and whether a faction is Muslim, Orthodox or Christian will affect allegiances and public loyalty – as a catholic nation the player must carry out the wishes of the Papal States, embarking on a holy war if need be or else run the risk of excommunication. If public order and loyalty should fall too low in a particular region a rebellion or a civil war may occur – in these situations the player may decide to side with the rebels or the current rulers to quell the rebellion or overthrow a tyrannous regime-

Week 4 (August 22–28)

51 releases
Icewind Dale II

Most popular release in Week 4

Icewind Dale II

Icewind Dale II is a captivating role-playing game developed by Black Isle Studios, released in 2002 as the sequel to the acclaimed Icewind Dale. Set in the Forgotten Realms universe of Dungeons & Dragons, the game thrusts players into the harsh, frozen landscapes of Icewind Dale, where they lead a party of adventurers against a looming evil threat. Utilizing an improved version of the Infinity Engine, Icewind Dale II offers enhanced graphics and a more user-friendly interface, while implementing 3rd Edition D&D rules that expand character creation options with new races and classes. The game is celebrated for its challenging combat encounters, intricately designed dungeons, and a gripping narrative that intertwines themes of invasion, betrayal, and ancient magic. While maintaining the series' focus on combat and exploration, Icewind Dale II introduces more substantial character interactions and side quests, enriching the role-playing experience. The real-time with pause combat system allows for deep tactical gameplay, appealing to strategy enthusiasts. With its blend of expansive character customization, immersive storytelling, and strategic depth, Icewind Dale II stands as a beloved entry in the classic CRPG genre, offering a rewarding experience for both series veterans and newcomers alike.

Which platforms saw the most releases?

PC (Microsoft Windows) received 67 new titles in August 2002. The runner up was PlayStation 2 with 40 new titles.

PC (Microsoft Windows)67 releases
PlayStation 240 releases
Game Boy Advance38 releases
Nintendo GameCube21 releases
PlayStation18 releases
Xbox12 releases
WonderSwan Color5 releases
Legacy Mobile Device5 releases
Arcade3 releases
Web browser3 releases

What genres were most popular?

Adventure was the dominant genre in August 2002 with 48 titles. Sport followed closely with 36.

Adventure48
Sport36
Shooter31
Strategy28
Simulator25
Role-playing23
Racing17
Puzzle14
Fighting14
Platform14