As the holiday season approaches, two prominent global phenomenons will be releasing their next installments in the gaming industry on Friday, November 15 with the hopes of entertaining, inspiring, and bringing in a whole lot of money. 

Set to release at the end of the week, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Pokémon Sword and Shield have millions upon millions of eager fans (and skeptics) looking to see what each franchise has in store next. From the grassy knoll of the Galar region to the forests of Kashyyyk, both Nintendo and Electronic Arts, respectively, will have their hands full taking players on journeys through known and unknown worlds while working to fight off the competition. 

The never-ending story of the Force

Set to release on PC, PlayStation 4, and the Xbox One, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order picks up five years after Revenge of the Sith leaves off, in a world of utter chaos. With nearly all Jedi wiped out after Order 66 was put into motion, players will pilot one of the last surviving Padawans named Cal Kestis in his journey to make sense of what has happened. With the Empire hot on his heels, Cal will have to use the Force, lightsaber, and the help from a few of his friends to restore order to the galaxy. 

Another Generation is set to kick off

For over 20 years, fans of the Pokémon franchise have had handheld games to enjoy at home, on the go, and with friends. When Pokémon Sword and Shield drops on Friday, feelings of nostalgia and youthful exuberance will surge through the playerbase as Generation 8 features familiar faces and new ones as well. Launching on the Nintendo Switch, players will explore the Galar region will a common goal in mind: to catch 'em all. A tried and true formula that has kept players coming back for more since the 1990s, The Pokémon Company hopes they have done enough to provide a fresh and unique playing experience to millions around the world who grew up with the franchise.

As Friday is only a few days away, 'tis the season of new games and holiday joy.