E3 2010 Predictions

E3 is just over a week away (June 15-17), and the next year of gaming is about to be laid before our eyes. Part of the excitement around E3 certainly stems from speculation, so let’s go ahead and get in on that. The following is a summary of general knowledge surrounding the E3 keynotes, with a mix of my own predictions.

Outside of the big three keynotes, we're certain to see more information on games like: Super Scribblenauts, Metal Gear: Rising, Arkham Asylum 2, Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, Red Faction: Armageddon, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Sonic Colors, Sonic 4... there's bound to be a lot there.

Personally, outside of keynotes, I'll be watching Bioware closely. They've already stated E3 will have something far-reaching from Mass Effect and a new Dragon Age title. Recently, an EA job posting has suggested that the Mass Effect franchise needs multiplayer programmers. This could mean ME3 will have multiplayer co-op, or it could mean whatever "far-reaching" Mass Effect title is coming to E3 will include multiplayer. Personally, I'm inclined to believe the latter will be true, in spite of the fact hiring a multiplayer programmer this late in the game might suggest otherwise. Then there's Dragon Age 2. That will definitely be announced. I am certain. It will be called "Dragon Age: Later in the timeline."

Then there's our precious Valve. Those cheeky fellows just canceled Portal 2's press event at E3, supposedly replacing it with something that will surprise us all. And what could surprise us more than Half-Life 2: Episode 3? Well, not much, aside from a new IP or an overhaul of the Source engine (which would go along with Episode 3 quite nicely). I'm now about 75% sure the next iteration of Source will be announced, using Episode 3 for demonstration.

And then we've got Final Fantasy XIV. With all the information coming out in recent weeks, there's really not much left for us to learn about the game, aside from perhaps the remaining jobs. According to interviews, the developers themselves don't seem to know how the final game will play. We're really just going to have to wait and see what the Beta brings along. Still, E3 might provide us with a new trailer, or even better, a tentative release date. Of course, we can't expect a date to be held at this point, but they could at least tell us if they still plan on a 2010 release. There's still also the possibility the game could appear on 360.

This article will remain on top of the home page until E3, when it will be replaced with articles for each keynote, then a summary, and perhaps other fun stuff, too. Check back here for updates to the keynote table as we get closer to the day. Each edit will be noted in italics.

Edits:
Deus Ex 3 will have a trailer, potentially a release date. Dreamcast games coming to XBLA and PSN, including Sonic Adventure.