Games Released in August 2002

148 new games debuted in August 2002, with PC being the most active platform. August 29 was the busiest day, with 19 releases. Mafia was the most popular release of the month.

Which days had the most releases?

August 29 saw the most activity with 19 releases.

19 releases

August 29

17 releases

August 23

17 releases

August 9

13 releases

August 30

How did each week compare?

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

Week 1 (August 1–7)

34 releases

Most popular release in Week 1

Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution

Evolution was an updated version of Virtua Fighter 4. The game introduced two new characters and adjusted every other character as well. The two new characters were the Judoka-assassin, Goh Hinogami and the Muay Thai boxer Brad Burns. With the addition of Brad Burns, Vanessa Lewis's alternate Muay Thai style from Virtua Fighter 4 was removed and replaced with a Vale Tudo "Offensive" style; making her a solely Vale Tudo brawler. All of the stages were adjusted. For example, Lei-Fei's stage in Virtua Fighter 4 previously took place during sunset, in Evolution it takes place during the morning.

Week 2 (August 8–14)

55 releases

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)

49 releases

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.

Week 5 (August 29–31)

37 releases

Most popular release in Week 5

Mafia

Mafia is a 3D action crime epic set in the seedy underworld of the 1930's. Rise from the lowly but well-dressed Footsoldier, to an envied and feared Made Man in an era of mob hits, car chases, and bootlegging. Earn a reputation as a tough enforcer, daring getaway driver, and deadly hitman in your quest for respect and power within the Salieri Family.

Which platforms saw the most releases?

PC received 53 new titles in August 2002. The runner up was Game Boy Advance with 35 new titles.

PC53 releases

Game Boy Advance35 releases

PlayStation 235 releases

Nintendo GameCube21 releases

PlayStation18 releases

Xbox12 releases

Legacy Mobile Device5 releases

WonderSwan Color5 releases

Web browser4 releases

Arcade3 releases

What genres were most popular?

Adventure was the dominant genre in August 2002 with 47 titles. Sport followed closely with 36.

Adventure47

Sport36

Strategy27

Shooter24

Simulator23

Role-playing21

Racing17

Fighting15

Platform14

Puzzle14

2002 Review

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