Garfield Stands Firm in September’s Game Release Date Showdown

In a bid to avoid the chaos surrounding Grand Theft Auto 6’s November launch, many developers are gearing up to release their major titles in September. This has led to a massive traffic jam of games, especially as the month progresses. For example, on September 24, we’ll see the release of both Control: Resonant and Silent Hill: Downfall, followed by Onimusha: Way of the Sword the very next day. Some titles, like Valor Mortis, are already opting to delay their launches to October, but one game is standing its ground: Garfield – Escape From Monday.

To mark Garfield’s birthday, Microids has unveiled the first trailer for the beloved character’s latest adventure, set to launch on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X. The trailer showcases classic 3D platforming action and confirms the previously announced release date of September 24.

Is this the smartest strategy for our lasagna-loving feline? Perhaps not, but there’s something admirable about this bold stance. Microids secured this date long before the Summer Game Fest turned it into a competitive battleground. Plus, it’s not like Garfield would let anyone dictate his schedule; he’d simply refuse to cooperate on a Monday. So why should he be the one to back down? That’s classic Garfield logic.

The new trailer also highlights that a crowded release date isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially when the games cater to different audiences. While September 24 is indeed packed, I doubt there’s much overlap between fans of a 3D Garfield platformer and those drawn to a Silent Hill title. I might be one of the few who straddles that line.

Importantly, none of the games launching that day involve Garfield getting stuck in a nightmare after devouring a plate of spinach lasagna and having to reactivate his taste buds. (Though Control: Resonant isn’t too far off from that concept.) The trailer features Garfield navigating food-themed levels, battling evil tomatoes, and riding eggplants. A press release teases that players will get to “embody Garfield in every form,” transforming him into a turkey, a cowboy, and more. Essentially, it’s the 3D Mario experience you’ve been craving this year. Close enough, right?

I commend Microids for sticking to their guns, as it aligns perfectly with Garfield’s character. He’s not one to be intimidated. He’s both an immovable object and an unstoppable force. September 24 is his day, and anyone trying to steal his thunder should be ready to face the consequences.

Gaze into Odie’s eyes, and you’ll witness true foolishness.