Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on August 2013

It’s that time of year gamers in Japan and overseas really look forward to—the Tokyo Game Show. And after the 2012 show brought in a record 223,753 people, TGS 2013 looks like it might be the biggest yet.

This year sees the much-anticipated launch of two next-generation systems by powerhouse companies Sony and Microsoft. Although Microsoft’s XBOX One was announced first, it quickly became the source of internet rage as people around the world called out the firm on their strict DRM policies. Critics targeted the fact that users would always have to be internet-connected, and that there would be a block on playing used games on the system. Sony swooped in with the announcement of the Playstation 4 at E3—and let the world know it was doing everything the XBOX One wasn’t. Sony made it clear that they would keep a similar platform to the PS3, and would leave the system region-free and compatible with used games.

Microsoft has since changed their stance on some of their policies, but it may be a little too late, especially in Japan, where the XBOX has never really made a splash. What will be interesting at this year’s show will be how Microsoft plans to win over the Japanese audience on their own turf. Sony will definitely have an easier time with their solid market.

Hardware is an important issue for gamers but we all know it really comes down to software. No matter what system you choose, it’s about what games you’ll be playing. With the announcement of next-generation systems comes a bevy of new series and sequels to famous franchises all primed for the new systems (though many fall releases will be released for current systems, too).

Famed Japanese creator Hideo Kojima has been busy putting together his new title Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. This version promises to let you sneak around a gorgeously rendered, real-time open world. Ubisoft is bringing Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, the next chapter in their popular franchise, to both current and next-gen systems. This title focuses on free-running, pirate-ship combat and open-world sea exploration. And developer Rockstar Games has people excited with the upcoming launch of Grand Theft Auto V. Mixing up the gameplay with three different protagonists, it brings it back to Los Santos, their own unique take on Las Angeles with plenty of open world action and a decidedly non-linear, anything-goes style of play.

Nintendo, although usually boothless on the game floor, has a lot of games that will appear at the show in one form or another. The Wonderful 101 is a unique Wii U title coming out this fall from developer Platinum Games where players team up with over 100 different heroes to save a city. And Nintendo will probably steal the show with Capcom through the launch of Monster Hunter 4 for the handheld system Nintendo 3DS. Monster Hunter is easily one of the most popular gaming franchises in Japan of late, loved by young and old, boys and girls, and men and women alike. The game’s booth usually summons some of the longest lines as people wait for a chance to play the newest title.

Makuhari Messe, Sep 21-22.