For the past seven years, the Epic Games Store has kept gamers engaged with its weekly ritual of offering free games every Thursday. It’s become a staple for players eager to explore new titles regularly, as these games are announced without fail at 10 AM CT each week. While there may be the occasional twist or unexpected surprise, the Epic Games Store consistently delivers a selection that keeps gamers interested.
Now, let’s talk about a particularly intriguing week: February 13th. Typically, during special occasions like holidays, we see themed games matching the celebration, but this week was different. While one might have expected a Valentine’s-themed game, what we got instead was a delightful surprise for Apex Legends fans. They could grab the Legend Loba’s unlock pack free of charge, complete with some added goodies. It was a treat for fans of EA’s popular hero shooter but fell short for those outside this fanbase, who visit the store seeking something fresh to whet their gaming appetite. Fortunately, for those not as keen on Apex, the Epic Games Store had more to offer: both Garden Story and World War Z: Aftermath were available as free downloads, providing a wider range of options for the community.
Now, let’s delve deeper into what these two games bring to the table.
World War Z: Aftermath, initially launched in 2019, draws its inspiration from the novel and the movie of the same name, transforming the horror narrative into a fast-paced third-person co-op shooter. Whether you’re teaming up with friends or braving it solo with AI sidekicks, you’ll be fighting to survive in a variety of global locales. This game is highly recommended for novices and offers a thrilling experience akin to titles like Left 4 Dead. And just to make things a bit more exciting, the version offered is the 2021 reissue, Aftermath, bringing in stunning 4K visuals, new character classes like the Gunslinger, and even a first-person mode.
Now onto Garden Story – a game that might remind you of previous charming Epic Games Store offerings like Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion. Step into the shoes of a plucky grape, appointed as the guardian of their community. This delightful RPG invites players to choose and upgrade their weapons, tackle adversaries, complete daily chores, and even customize their grape character. While critics shared mixed opinions on Garden Story, it enjoys a beloved spot with players on Steam, boasting a ‘very positive’ rating.
As February 20th rolled in, offering Garden Story alongside World War Z: Aftermath showcased the diversity of the Epic Games Store’s free games lineup. They may come from different worlds, but together, these selections highlight the strength of the store’s offerings, appealing to a broad spectrum of gamers. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of zombie battles or crave the serenity of a role-playing grape’s journey, there’s something here for everyone.
But what if neither option tickles your fancy? Not to worry. Keep an eye on the Epic Games Store’s free games page each Thursday. Who knows what next week’s treasure trove might hold? The assortment is a bit of a mystery, with occasional leaks hinting at future offerings, but there’s always the chance of changes right before they’re unveiled. No matter what’s on the horizon, a weekly check-in with the store might just reward you with the perfect game—completely free.
