The next PlayStation State of Play might be on the horizon, and according to reliable rumors, it’s likely set for April 16, 2024. This time, the show is reportedly placing the spotlight on third-party titles, setting aside the PlayStation Studios projects for a future event. This shift in focus provides a great opportunity for updates on some of the most hyped upcoming games from external publishers.

What’s been leaked?

Industry insider Nate the Hate, known for accurate scoops in the past, tweeted details about the potential event earlier this week. While he couldn’t definitively confirm the April 16 date, Nate emphasized that this State of Play is expected to focus on third-party games, making it a smaller-scale showcase compared to the much larger event from earlier in the year. Another source supported these claims, hinting that a second event, typically PlayStation's more substantial showcase, could follow later in late May to early June.

What makes this event special?

A third-party-focused State of Play means PlayStation will highlight projects from developers outside its own studios. Unlike first-party blockbusters like “Spider-Man 2” or the upcoming “Marvel’s Wolverine,” third-party games are developed independently but come to PlayStation platforms. Although Xbox has dominated this space by acquiring developers, PlayStation continues to host some major third-party partnerships.

Which games might make an appearance?

Speculation is swirling about what games could show up during the broadcast. Here are some likely contenders based on current development timelines and earlier announcements:

• Control Resonant (Control 2): Remedy Entertainment’s sequel to “Control” is high on the radar after a gameplay teaser earlier this year. The game still lacks a release date, increasing the possibility that this event could give us a clearer timeline.

• Pragmata: Capcom’s delayed sci-fi adventure is slated to release this month, making its inclusion in the lineup a no-brainer. The game has maintained a relatively low profile since its original announcement in 2020.

• Onimusha: Way of the Sword: Another Capcom title, this game doesn’t yet have a release date, but its connection to a beloved franchise makes it a strong candidate for the April show.

• Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra: Easily one of the most intriguing and troubled third-party games right now. Published by Skydance Paramount, this action game teams up Black Panther and Captain America in a World War II setting but has faced multiple delays. Little more than early development footage has been seen, raising concerns that another delay could push it into 2027. If it’s not shown during this State of Play, hopes may shift to June’s Summer Game Fest.

Will we see any PlayStation Studios announcements?

While the spotlight might be on third-party developers, PlayStation Studios could make a brief appearance. Notable projects and potential updates include:

• Marvel’s Wolverine: Developed by Insomniac Games, the title was promised to get a fresh update this Spring. While many suspect it might receive its own dedicated State of Play, there’s still a chance PlayStation could confirm that during April’s event.

• Saros: This game is confirmed for release this month and will almost certainly secure a slot in PlayStation’s trailer lineup for the event.

Fans of superhero games might have even more to celebrate with other potential surprises. However, it’s unclear whether games like “Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight,” launching next month, will be part of this specific showcase.

Anticipation and concerns

Though nothing has been officially confirmed by PlayStation at this point, the leaks paint an exciting but slightly cautious picture. This smaller-scale State of Play feels like an opportunity for PlayStation to keep the conversation going around its platform while building toward its much-anticipated late-May event. The absence of major first-party updates now could allow those to shine in June, with immersive titles like “Marvel’s Wolverine” and likely surprise announcements from franchises tied to Naughty Dog or Guerrilla Games.

The looming uncertainty around projects like “Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra” might dampen the enthusiasm of fans who have been waiting years for new gameplay footage. The repeated delays underline the challenges developers face in managing community expectations in an era where almost every detail can leak online.

What comes next?

If the event does happen on April 16 as rumored, PlayStation fans should expect official announcement and timing details in the coming days. A robust showing from third-party developers could serve as a strong lead-up to a bigger showcase the following month, as Sony continues to position itself at the forefront of the gaming industry during 2024’s packed event season.

Whether the April State of Play introduces new release dates, surprises with trailers for highly anticipated titles, or simply keeps the hype machine running, it’s guaranteed to get people speculating about the next chapter of PlayStation’s evolving catalog.