Stadia has proven that it does not show all of its cards - this is a platform that enjoys dropping surprises. Ten days after its big Stadia Connect, the platform comes flying out of left field, announcing three action titles that, while not exactly new, are new to Stadia. Could these be the Free with Pro games for August? We will find out in less than a week.
The first game announced was Sniper Elite 4 (GN score 8.8 out of 10). From Stadia PR:
"Set in the aftermath of its award-winning predecessor, the BAFTA-nominated Sniper Elite 4 transports players across the beautiful Italian peninsula, from sun-drenched Mediterranean coastal towns, to ancient forests, mountain valleys and colossal fortresses. Covert agent and elite marksman Karl Fairburne must fight alongside the brave men and women of the Italian Resistance and defeat a terrifying new threat with the potential to halt the Allied fight back in Europe before it’s even begun."
Also announced was my beloved Strange Brigade (GN score 8 out of 10). From my review:
"Strange Brigade is a rollicking good time, allowing teams of four to take on armies of the undead in a solid approximation of a 1930’s serial film. There are tons of mechanics to play with and puzzles to solve, but in the end, this is a fun, fast-paced shooter with awesome graphics and enjoyable multiplayer. There was no need for Strange Brigade to try to be anything more, it is plenty great as it is."
And finally, Superhot: Mind Control Delete was announced for Stadia (GN score: I'm working on it). From Stadia PR:
"Time moves only when you move. Enemies pour in from every direction. You are in complete control as you shoot, slice, and explode your way through dozens and dozens of increasingly challenging combat encounters. The closer you get to the core, the more powerful you become. The third game in the SUPERHOT franchise, MIND CONTROL DELETE gives you more insight into the world of SUPERHOT - more story and signature gameplay. Keep dancing the slow-motion ballet of destruction for longer than ever before."
If it follows the pattern it did on other platforms, SUPERHOT: Mind Control Delete will be free for all Pro members that snagged the original title. If I had to guess, I would say that the other two (very high quality) titles will be Free with Pro in August, along with Rock of Ages III, which was already announced as Free with Pro when it arrives on August 14th. Either way, it is clear that we can continue expecting surprising announcements from the Stadia team on a regular basis.