Aliens vs Predator - March (360/PS3/PC)
Co-Op: Four player co-op survival mode.
While we wait for the four player co-op Aliens: Colonial Marines, we'll have the hold over mode of "Survival" in Aliens vs Predator. This mode actually existed in the original game from developer Rebellion, and now we revisit it in their remake. You'll take on endless swarms of Aliens as you and three other players take the role of Space Marines.
More info and stories on Aliens vs Predator.
Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising - 3/11/2010 (PC)
Co-Op: 2 player online co-op
The first official expansion pack for Dawn of War 2 will unleash Chaos Marines on the game. New to the game is a corruption system which has advantages and disadvantages depending on the decisions made. Do you trade more corruption and evil acts for a powerful weapon? We've heard rumors that the co-op may be expanded to more than two players, but so far, there's been no confirmation.
More info and stories on Dawn of War 2: Chaos Rising.
SOCOM: Fireteam Bravo 3 - Early 2010 (PSP)
Co-Op: Four player online co-op through the single player missions.
The SOCOM series has always had a rabid following, and the latest version has seen its share of delays. Players will be able to play four player co-op either online or locally through the game's campaign. With custom missions, character customization and plenty of multiplayer goodness - SOCOM should have plenty of legs for PlayStation Portable owners once it finally hits.
More info and stories on SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 - Early 2010 (Everything)
Co-Op: Two player local co-op through the entire game.
The next great franchise to get the LEGO treatment is Harry Potter. The latest game from Telltale Games once again allows for two player cooperative play through the entire story. Unique features to Harry Potter include numerous spell attacks that you'll unlock through the course of the game and over 50 characters in the Harry Potter universe.
More info and stories on LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4.
This brings us to about the middle of the year with confirmed releases. In part two we'll look at the rest of the games of the year, including the summer, some big fall releases and games that are up in limbo.
Update: Part 2 is posted along with the video version of our preview.