Video game delays have become commonplace amidst the pandemic. While many are likely frustrated by waiting in continual anticipation, it's important to note that, generally, the more time that is spent on a game, the more potential it has to be polished. Developers have been adjusting to working on these large-scale projects from their own homes, and this slows down the creation process, meaning more 2021 video game delays are likely still to come.
Throughout the end of 2020 and into 2021, gaming fans have been refreshing shopping carts, waiting for the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S to become available. The only issue is that there have not been many new games to showcase the capability of these machines, and ongoing development struggles mean it's likely going to be a challenge for Xbox and Sony to get major games released on the newest generation of hardware. A few AAA video games have already been delayed in 2021 - most notably Outriders, which has moved from February 2 to April 1, and Returnal, which was pushed from March 19 to April 30.
Below are a few of the most anticipated games of the year that could reasonably be delayed, but indie and AAA games alike are subject to change, as far as 2021 release dates are concerned. Anyone who has worked on a team knows the importance of efficient communication. With companies working remotely, these processes slow down significantly.
Possible 2021 Game Delays - God Of War: Ragnarok
There is very little information currently available about God of War's upcoming sequel. The "God of War: Ragnarok" name hasn't even been officially confirmed as its title, which says a lot about its supposed 2021 launch window. Considering that its reveal was only a logo and that developer Santa Monica Studio hasn't released any significant details about the new God of War game, it would be surprising if it came out this year.
Possible 2021 Game Delays - Halo Infinite
The initial release date for Halo Infinite was set for the launch of the Xbox Series X; however, it has been pushed to fall 2021. The Halo franchise is a Microsoft icon with millions of fans. To give fans the Halo game they "deserve" and allow for maximum polishing, developer 343 Industries could easily need to push Halo Infinite back another year.
Possible 2021 Game Delays - Dying Light 2
A game originally set to release in spring 2020, a recent developer update video has Dying Light 2 still planned for 2021. It's unclear what day fans can expect to see it on the market, but it does seem to be on its way. Though Techland has lost a few key developers, the dev team seems to be standing strong as it continues working. That said, with the delaying it's seen thus far, it wouldn't be shocking to see Dying Light 2 pushed back to 2022.
There are tons of video games set to release this year, and most of them will probably make their date. The games most likely to be delayed are the bigger projects, such as Halo Infinite and God of War, that require large development teams.