Things We’re Excited for in 2021 Part I

It’s time for us to say goodbye to 2020. It seems like every year when we get to making these posts for the next year, it’s almost like walking a tightrope in terms of admitting exhaustion from what the year gave us while also wanting to be excited for the good things the next year will potentially bring. 2020 was exhausting, it’s okay to say that and feel that. 2021 will also probably be exhausting and in different ways for different people, but hopefully less exhausting than this year. That said, even though a lot of things are on halt right now, there is still some art we have to look forward to. And as such, we’re bringing you the annual Teenplicity Team “Things We’re Excited For in the New Year” list filled with music, books, video games, television, movies, and more expected to drop in 2021.

Note: These lists are ordered by scheduled release date given at the time of the post being made and are not completed lists (for in case we get some Beyoncé drops from someone, who knows…) Some dates may be subject to change.

Be on the lookout for our list TOMORROW of television and movies coming out in 2021.

2021 in Music

Arlo Parks – Collapsed in Sunbeams (January 29)

When talking about her debut album, Arlo Parks says, “My album is a series of vignettes and intimate portraits surrounding my adolescence and the people that shaped it. It is rooted in storytelling and nostalgia — I want it to feel both universal and hyper-specific.” Collapsed in Sunbeams is expected to release January 29th.

“I’ve featured Arlo Parks a few times on Teenplicity Radio, her music is just such a vibe and calms me the same way that listening to Tracy Chapman does for example. I can’t wait to hear more from her especially because she has such strong songwriting, it’s always like you’re transported into a story when you hear it. Which also begins my hope to one day make something where her music gets featured on the soundtrack or something.” – Brie

Pale Waves – Who Am I? (February 12)

As the second Pale Waves album, Who Am I? is meant to be the band’s pop-punk manifesto – inspiring inclusivity, self-discovery, and the notion of being whoever the hell you want to be. Who Am I? is expected to release February 12th.

“Another music artist that I’d love to make something and have them featured on the soundtrack for. I can’t wait for Pale Waves second album. Their latest single, “She’s My Religion” has been one of my favorite new releases recently. When you see my other music picks, you’ll see that apparently 2021 is me really getting back into my pop-punk roots so this coming out early in the year is exactly what I’m gonna need and I can’t wait.” – Brie

The Pretty Reckless – Death by Rock and Roll (February 12)

The fourth album from The Pretty Reckless, Death by Rock and Roll features collaborations from the likes of Rage Against the Machine and Soundgarden and was recorded in Seattle at London Bridge Studios. Death by Rock and Roll is expected to release February 12th.

“Ever since doing my ‘Decade in Albums’ Monday Musings at the end of 2019, I’ve been reminded just how much I love The Pretty Reckless. So, finding out that they’re releasing a new album next year felt right on time. I wasn’t that impressed with the titular track when I first heard it, but their Halloween-y song ‘Broomsticks’ and their latest single ’25’ both immediately redeemed and sparked my interest back in.” – Brie

Celeste – Not Your Muse (February 26)

The debut album from Celeste, the artist says of the album, “’Not Your Muse’ is the power I found when I felt powerless…In making this album I have allowed myself to arrive at a place where I feel empowered, fiercely wide-eyed, and fulfilled.” Not Your Muse is expected to release February 26th.

“Celeste has also been featured a few times as my Teenplicity Radio pick. I just love the sound of her voice and the way her music is produced. It’s very soulful and blends the sounds of R&B and jazz with this hint of pop so effortlessly. I can’t wait to hear what her whole debut album sounds like considering how strong her previous music leading up to it has been.” – Brie

A Day to Remember – You’re Welcome (March 5)

The first new release from the band in five years, You’re Welcome is A Day to Remember’s upcoming seventh album and the first one under Fueled By Ramen. Vocalist Jeremy McKinnon describes it as a happier record and is said to blend the trademark sound of A Day to Remember with a take on modern influences. You’re Welcome is expected to release March 5th.

“Again, a return to the teen!me that was very, very into rock. The singles so far for this album have me very excited!!!! I feel myself back in my roots and ready to slap on a black and white striped armwarmer right this second with their new album. And along with the potential releases of new music from Paramore and Meet Me @ the Altar (ALSO THINGS I’M EXCITED FOR IN 2021 BUT SINCE THERE WAS NOTHING CONFIRMED I DIDN’T OFFICIALLY ADD THEM BUT THEY’RE THERE) Fueled By Ramen is clearly coming back to secure the bag, proving that truly it is never just a phase.” – Brie

AJR – OK ORCHESTRA (March 26)

Fresh off of the premiere of Soul on Disney+ (which used their song “Overture” from their album The Click), their crazy inventive and unique virtual concert, and the release of their latest single titled, “My Play”, AJR announced their next album OK ORCHESTRA. OK ORCHESTRA is expected to release March 26th.

“Where their previous album Neotheater felt like a long, vulnerable, yet somewhat relieving therapy session, “My Play” seems to play off of “Bummerland” as both usher in that similar vulnerability for OK ORCHESTRA. “My Play” incorporates the idea of parents divorcing, the struggle with one’s values as a result of that, not wanting to accept what is happening, and figuring out a way to find a new normal.

AJR has continually one-upped themselves with each release. They are able to continue to reinvent themselves with each album, uncovering a new layer of their music, sounding different than what fans heard in the past while also maintaining that quintessential aspect that screams AJR.

I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing the band on more than one occasion and they’ve always been my favorite to watch rise and succeed. Their outlook on music, success, and storytelling is so unique and they are unafraid to push boundaries as they continue to explore their craft. Their next album is #1 on my list for what I can’t wait for in 2021. Stellar artists, incredible music, amazing storytellers. Love it all.” – Mary

Evanescence – The Bitter Truth (March 26)

The Forthcoming fifth studio album from Evanescence, Amy Lee has commented on the album saying that while creating it, she was “absolutely living in it” and that the sound is dark and heavy. The Bitter Truth is expected to release March 26th.

“I recently had the galaxy brain thinking that FKA twigs should cover ‘Bring Me to Life.’ And I stand by that but I also think Amy Lee and FKA twigs should do a song together. Anyway, until then, I will just be excited about this new Evanescence album whose singles are already really good and songs that I just want to scream at the top of my lungs because I don’t have her vocal range at all and there’s no point in pretending I do. But one thing about me? Imma still have fun with it and imma still sing an Evanescence song.” – Brie

noname

Confirmed on social media a few days ago, noname is releasing music in 2021 including some music in January.

“Name another artist this year that dropped a song that was only like 70 seconds and yet completely encaptured everything that needed to be said. You can’t because only noname did it. Her pen is consistently poignant both with and without a mic. She’s done so much amazing and important work including working incredibly hard to uplift the voices and work of activism and denouncing celebrity as best as she can when celebrity and artist are so intrinsically tied to each other. I’m glad that she’s also still able to channel her creativity because art is also crucial for us to get through life.” – Brie

FKA twigs

FKA twigs has been in the studio and working on a project. It might come out in 2021, but we’re not sure just yet.

“First things first, Magdalene was snubbed and disrespected. It was one of the best albums to come out recently and that FKA twigs didn’t receive more love for it is a travesty. Her talent and imagination are so exciting and the focus on healing in her music I think is very touching and one of the things that draws me to her music. She does such a strong job of showcasing how healing and pain are both nonlinear concepts. As is love. As is what we think is love but turns out not to be. She’s an artist that really reminds you what it means to make art and I can’t wait to see what her next album or upcoming work in general sounds like especially since it seems like she is thankfully in a happier place than she was when she was constructing the era of Magdalene.” – Brie

Lorde

Lorde is been working on her next album. We know this. Lorde is potentially releasing said album in 2021. We can infer this.

“Lorde, where is the album? I know that you have the album girl, so where is it? Are you still working on it or is it done?  I know that you have something to release, I just feel it in my soul. And while I can listen to Pure Heroine and Melodrama on repeat (and trust me I have!!!!) A third album would be greatly appreciated. Please, we need your third album, Lorde. Remind the girls just what your power is over all of us.” – Brie

“Please, fam. Let 2021 also be the year of our Lorde & savior. For real, we would really, greatly, appreciate some new music soon. Please? Basically, just envision me as the animated Robin Hood meme but I’m begging for new Lorde music. Please.” – Mary

Taylor Swift Re-Recording Her Masters

After her masters wrongfully being sold without her consent, Taylor Swift announced that she will be re-recording her masters to gain back ownership of her music. The first recordings are anticipated to release in 2021.

“I’m a casual Taylor Swift listener, I used to listen to her more when I was younger, not as much anymore. I still haven’t even heard Folklore or Evermore or anything past her singles on Lover to be honest. I am simply here to say men like Scooter Braun who make a career out of profiting off of and disrespecting women do not deserve the success they stole and stomped over other people to get. And I hope that moves like Taylor re-recording her masters and when Jojo did the same thing a few years ago for similar reasons results in more reckoning against music execs whose whole job and way to make money is to literally just suppress and take ownership over art that isn’t theirs to begin with. Burn it all down!!!” – Brie

“I have been a fan of Taylor Swift’s music for years. Even when she created albums that I was less enthused about than others (cough 1989 cough), she has continually showed her lyrical and melodic abilities and far surpassed expectations. With her very public battle over her original recordings hitting a stalemate, she is finally able to re-record those original songs now that her contract stipulation has expired.
This is fantastic for two reasons: 1. Scooter Braun will be receiving no compensation for these new recordings, which are also going to devalue her originals, and 2. Her songs will feature updated vocals, some lyrical changes, and in the case of the incredibly popular “All Too Well”, a 10-minute long version.

2020, despite its many challenges, proved to be fruitful for Taylor Swift. She released two #1 albums just months apart, both of which were accompanied by #1 singles and recording-breaking charts numbers, and also had a docu-performance debut of one album on Disney+. So with the new recordings of her old songs on their way, she’s clearing a path to take over 2021 as well. Sign me up.” – Mary

Laura Marano

No album plans have been announced at this time, but Laura Marano has been hard at work promoting her latest EPs and has hinted at working on more music.

“Look, okay, it’s not a “Things We’re Looking Forward To In 20__” list unless I include Laura Marano and my incredible, long-running campaign for her to drop the studio version of “Dancing Around the Truth” – seriously fam, just link it in my email, I won’t tell anyone. She did end up releasing an awesome EP during the last quarter of 2020 and followed that up with virtual concerts, enlisting fans’ creative talents and more as she released the EP. She’s currently planning to crash a few Zoom You EP streaming parties this week. So here’s to a full length album coming in 2021. Please? And include the studio of “Dancing Around the Truth” on it too? Pretty please? Laura… girl… please.” – Mary

Rihanna + R9

We know that R9 is coming. We just don’t know when. So, we’re just staying ready just in case it’s soon.

“We return once again to me adding Rihanna to this list in the hopes of manifesting R9. I know that she’s busy doing like, literally everything else…like literally everything else. There is nothing in this world now that doesn’t have a Fenty version I’m pretty sure. But again, while ANTI remains skipless and one of the best albums of the new millennium, it also makes me overly excited to know what the next era of Rihanna could possibly bring! I will continue listening to ANTI and all of Rihanna’s previous work, and be reminded of all the versatility that she carries as an artist in all the ways that she does, but I also, again, humbly ask that she at least give us a single or two or some kind of indication that music is still on the way or is ANTI was truly her swan song because she knew it was that iconic an album. That said, I also know that great art takes time and to rush her or any other artist would be rude and maybe even lowkey disrespectful so, sorry Rihanna, I just need the serotonin.” – Brie

Beyoncé

Nothing is confirmed for Beyoncé to release something in 2021 but because we know this game…

“It’s tradition at this point to add Beyoncé to this list at the end, completely unaware if she will even give us anything and THEN! AND. THEN! SHE. DELIVERS. This year alone when I originally assumed she was gonna go into hiatus, she gave us one of the best remixes ever by working with Megan Thee Stallion on ‘Savage’, she dropped Black is King, the new Ivy Park collection (which we already knew was happening but still) and made surprise (virtual) appearances at events such as that Youtube Graduation thing and that Disney Sing-Along thing on ABC. So you really never know what in the world she’s working on because them NDA’s clearly don’t play. Which isn’t me getting my hopes up. Miss Mamas deserves herself a lil breaky break given how much she’s done and released these past few years, but!!!!!! As has been said before in relation to her, ‘Once you stay ready, you never have to get ready,’ which means that I must do my civic duty and stay ready for whatever she may or may not give us in 2021.” – Brie

Maybe shots in the dark but we’re still manifesting:

Bridgit Mendler

“Bridgit!!!! How many times must I tell you that the streets need you???? We need you!!! Come back to us!!! At the very least, can we get another EP? I would love a new album, but I will settle for another EP if must be. Also, congrats on working to get a Ph.D. and congrats on getting married, all that is great and I’m so happy for you, leak a demo or something just so I know that you are at least thinking about music, please. For my sanity.” – Brie

“It’s been a hot second since Bridgit Mendler has dropped some tunes and I want to be sad but she’s been out here getting married, and most notably, being a PhD student at MIT. So yeah, I can’t be mad that she’s not focusing on music (or even acting) because, again, Ph.D. student at MIT. Still, that’s not stopping me from hoping that once she graduates, we can get a Dr. Bridgit Mendler album and she can remind everyone that she still rules pop. (Also, Dr. Bridgit Mendler is so cool and if she decides to make another album – which I hope she does! – then what a cool title to use for the album or just for her artist title!!)” – Mary

Raini Rodriguez

“Okay, there’s no actual basis for this one – it’s just pure reach and manifestation on my part. But hear me out. Raini has actually released a song prior, was featured singing on Austin & Ally a couple of times, and has dropped a Christmas cover or two on YouTube a few years back. While those of us at TEENPLICITY are big fans and supporters of Laura Marano and Ross Lynch – both great vocalists who we’ve featured in the past on the site! – Raini was truly underserved on Austin & Ally.

Raini was arguably the best vocalist in the series and yet we rarely heard her sing, which is a little criminal. She has a strong and confident voice, and her range is awesome. The fact we haven’t had an album by her yet, or at the very least more covers, is a shame. There’re so many songs that I think she’d absolutely dominate and there’s so much potential for new songs to be done by her. She really does have great vocals and so this is me manifesting, between, you know, her kicking butt on Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous and everything else she’s doing, that she will find time to finally release the album I’ve been pushing for since 2012. Please? Tell me what I need to do and I’m sold. Maybe one day we can finally get it…” – Mary

2021 in Books

One of the Good Ones by Maika and Maritza Moulite (January 5)

When teen social activist and history buff Kezi Smith is killed under mysterious circumstances after attending a social justice rally, her devastated sister Happi and their family are left reeling in the aftermath. One of the Good Ones by Maika and Maritza Moulite is set to release January 5th.

“This book is said to grapple with grief and sisterhood as well as existing in a racist world where we constantly have to wonder why being human is not enough. The main characters of this book embark on a road trip journey to preserve the legacy of their sister/best friend which I’m interested to see play out. The premise of this book stood out to me since I first heard about it because I think as we constantly find ourselves dealing with public grief of the murders of Black people, we also find ourselves needing to grapple with how we memorialize every single name and respect them and what their families and those that knew them need to heal. It’s not a straightforward or easy answer and sometimes it changes day by day, week by week, month by month, etc. In 2020 alone, we’ve seen what was done when “memorializing” Breonna Taylor became “memeing” Breonna Taylor very quickly and without acknowledging the harm that causes. So to see YA move towards not only tackling how Black youth exist with anti-Blackness but how to honor Black lives after/during the trauma I think is an important next step.” – Brie

The Final Revival of Opal and Nev by Dawnie Walton (April 20)

In the early seventies New York City, just as determined rockstar Opal is finding her niche as part of a flamboyant and funky creative scene, a rival band signed to her label brandishes a Confederate flag at a promotional concert. Opal’s bold protest and the violence that ensues set off a chain of events that will not only change the lives of those she loves but also be a deadly reminder that repercussions are always harsher for women, especially Black women, who dare to speak their truth. The Final Revival of Opal and Nev by Dawnie Walton is set to release April 20th.

“I have a decent amount of historical fiction/period pieces on this list. Not intentional but really interesting. Anyway, my interest in this book sparked because I liked the book A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan when I read it a few years ago, but I also found it to be…well…look it’s good but it’s also very white. I love a good book where music is the central focus and especially about aspiring musicians and those that get to make it. But from my experience, that genre for whatever reason is rarely as inclusive as it should be. So a book about a young Black woman wanting to break into the rock and roll scene felt very exciting to me. But, it’s also the premise that this book is also an oral history recounting what went wrong years after the events happened seems very cool to me and made me really excited to read it.” – Brie

An Emotion of Great Delight by Taherah Mafi (June 1)

Set in 2003, Shadi, along with her friends and the members of her Muslim community, are subjected to discrimination and other cruelties, while she struggles with tragedy within her own family. An Emotion of Great Delight by Taherah Mafi is set to release June 1st.

“This book just recently popped up on my radar, so I don’t know much about it other than that it is said to be very, very sad. I’m not the best at sad books, they’re always hard for me to get through, but I think one of the best things about books is getting to really read and get into perspectives that you can’t exist in so you can learn more and hopefully apply what you’ve gained from reading that book to do and be better in the real world.” – Brie

The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo (June 1)

This retelling of The Great Gatsby centers on Jordan Baker, a queer, Asian, and adopted young woman treated as an exotic attraction by her peers, while the most important doors remain closed to her in 1920s America. But the world is full of wonders: infernal pacts and dazzling illusions, lost ghosts, and elemental mysteries. In all paper is fire, and Jordan can burn the cut paper heart out of a man. She just has to learn how. The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo is set to release June 1st.

“I found out about this book accidentally on Twitter like three days ago reading the replies to a tweet about how the Muppets should do a Great Gatsby retelling (they should!) and since hearing about it I’ve just been excited to read it. I’m honestly sad that I have to wait all the way until June for its release. It’s said to also be a story of fantasy which is cool because the story of Gatsby is about fantasy in a way, but it’s fantasy is in the way that the characters live in this world of wealth and greed that’s harmful on so many levels but to them is like a cloud nine. Well, until it’s not. I can’t wait to meet Jordan Baker and see her life and maybe see if she falls in love or something.” – Brie

Rise to the Sun by Leah Johnson (July 6)

Toni is grieving the loss of her roadie father and needing to figure out where her life will go from here — and she’s desperate to get back to loving music. Olivia is a hopeless romantic whose heart has just taken a beating (again) and is beginning to feel like she’ll always be a square peg in a round hole — but the Farmerland music festival is a chance to find a place where she fits. The two collide and it feels like something like kismet when a bond begins to form. But when a gun misfires and the festival is sent into a panic, Olivia and Toni will find that they need each other (and music) more than they ever imagined. Rise to the Sun by Leah Johnson is set to release July 6th.

“When I interviewed Leah Johnson earlier this year, we were a little earlier into quarantine and at one point were talking about how much we missed going to concerts and seeing live music. The feeling still stands even as we’ve gotten farther in and have felt more like this is endless. When Leah told me that her next book would be about a music festival then, of course, I was excited. As I mentioned in my blurb for The Final Revival, I love a good book where music is at the center. The feeling of music and how it impacts our lives and plays as our soundtrack is something that is always so moving to me. But also! A love story! At a music festival! I have a fear of using a portapotty so as much as I love live music, music festivals stress me out, that said, who hasn’t imagined finding love at a music festival? And now I get to read a book about (as I said on Twitter and had Leah cosign on) adorable disasters falling in love.” – Brie

2021 in Video Games

Among Us – Updates & New Map (Early 2021)

An online multiplayer game, Among Us sets up to 10 players up on the map of their choosing. These 10 crewmates must complete their tasks in order to win the game. There is a catch – there is an imposter (or up to three!) among us. Complete your tasks before the imposter(s) kill all the crewmates, or vote out whichever crewmate is the most suspicious in hopes of winning. Choose wisely. The Among Us updates and New Map are expected to release in early 2021.

“What has easily become the game for the second half of 2020, Among Us – a game that’s actually been around since 2018 – has plenty in-store for 2021. From being added to Xbox, after its add to the Nintendo Switch at the end of 2020, to the new updates, there’s plenty to be excited about.
The developers have teased the new map as well as new tasks, ladders, the choice of what room to start in, the possibility of new colors, and so much more on the way. To be honest, all of this feels like a game-changer for all players, from how the general population plays the game to how hilarious gamers like CallMeKevin play. I can’t wait for the chaos this is going to cause, as well as all the fun. Among Us has truly helped us get through the second half of 2020 and I’m excited for the small company behind it to continue to thrive and succeed with the game. Also, I can’t wait for whatever else they have planned.
Remember, don’t act sus.” – Mary

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake (March 18)

Taking on the role of the Prince, you must embark on a journey to save your kingdom, meeting allies and enemies along the way, and use the Sands of Time within the dagger to manipulate time to your success as you move through the game. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake is expected to release March 18th.

“I have to be honest with this one – I never actually played the original game. I actually didn’t even know it existed until the Disney film (and hey, there are problems galore in that but it is my guilty pleasure and I love it). Anyway, the film got me interested in the games and while I’ve been able to watch some gameplay and cutscenes on YouTube, I look forward to the ability to actually take part in the story and explore the world in full. There’s still plenty of surprises to be had for me as I haven’t spoiled everything about all of the games for myself so I look forward to experiencing some things for the first time. And hopefully, if the remake performs well, it will reinvigorate interest in the game’s franchise and call for more games? Cross your fingers.” – Mary

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (Spring 2021)

For the first time ever, you will be able to play through all nine of the Skywalker Saga films in this complete LEGO game. Following the plots of the movies, with some liberty taken here and hilarity dropped in there, you can relive your favorite cinematic moments as you play. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is expected to release in Spring 2021.

“So, fun fact – I actually included this on my list for 2020 and, much like everything else on it, this didn’t go as planned. (Just so you all know, both Marvel’s Avengers and Cyperpunk 2077 failed spectacularly in different ways, and Halo Infinite and LEGO Star Wars were both delayed to 2021. Stellar choices on my part for 2020.)
As the current release is anticipated for Spring 2021, I felt compelled to include it on the list again, especially because of how much we need good Star Wars film content after whatever happened with the last two films of the sequel trilogy. Anyway, my hype is still high because while this is my fourth console game for Star Wars (Battlefront 1 & 2 for PS4 and the game for The Phantom Menace on PS1 being only a couple levels completed are my only other experiences), it is my first LEGO game. I’ve always heard positive things about LEGO games, that they’re really fun, and I can’t wait for the chance to finally play it as well. I can’t wait. Also, maybe this will turn my feelings a bit to the positive side about the last two films of the sequel trilogy. We will see!” – Mary

Cyberpunk 2077 (PS4 Re-release in 2021)

Taking place in an alternate, futuristic universe, players are able to explore an open-world, action-adventure city in this game. Playing as a mercenary, you can create your own character, forge friendships, and complete missions as you ultimately work towards obtaining an implant that has the key to immortality. The PS4 re-release is expected to release in 2021.

“Dear gamers…
Ah, if only I had a yellow background to put behind this black text. You know, to remember the times of continuous delays and reassurances that everything is fine, updates like that, etc.
After a failed launch on current-gen consoles (the consoles the game was originally supposed to be made for…) which resulted in a number of calls for refunds and Sony even removing the game from its online store, the Cyberpunk 2077 team is working hard to make the game… playable (yes, just playable, none of the super awesome graphics that they marketed – that’s just for next-gen consoles) for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One users. It’s a bit of a hot mess. Though that makes me glad that I was waiting to get the game. So for that reason as well as Sony pulling it from their online shop, I’m listing Cyberpunk 2077 once again as something I’m looking forward to in the new year. Maybe I’ll be able to play it on my PS4 sometime in 2021. Though who knows.” – Mary

Overwatch 2 (Late 2021)

The sequel to the wildly successful first game, Overwatch 2 builds on the incredible online multiplayer team-play, exciting maps, and competitive play that have kept gamers coming back for years. It is also adding new content like maps, characters, and game modes. Overwatch 2 is expected to release late 2021.

“I absolutely love Overwatch. I’ve never been one to really play competitively on my own so I really love the versatility that the game provides its players, being able to change around what type of player you want to be for each game. Also, for the first time ever, I’ve really gotten into competitive mode in a game and am kicking butt as a healer. Seriously, if anyone reads this and ever needs a healer for one of their games, I’ve got you!
But the second game by Blizzard is actually going to eventually merge, in a sense, with the first game, making gameplay across generational consoles a non-issue, making sure that all players will be able to experience the best graphics and gameplay for their console. For now though, Overwatch 2 will be introducing new maps, new characters, and new designs, as well as at least one new game mode. It will also be able to do cross-play with players on the original game. As someone who is a big fan of the current game, I can’t wait to see how the playground of gameplay is expanded, and that they’re making such an accommodating and inventive game to cross the bridge between console generations while retaining a high player base. It’s awesome and I can’t wait to see all that the game offers!” – Mary

Hogwarts: Legacy

Travel to Hogwarts in the 1800s and live life as a student, building your skills and abilities with magic before then exploring the world beyond the castle’s walls. There’s so much magic waiting for you at Hogwarts and more. No exact date/time frame has been given at this moment.

“I haven’t played an actual Harry Potter game since maybe the Chamber of Secrets game on either the PlayStation or Windows 97. But Hogwarts: Legacy looks really awesome and like it has a lot of potential to be a fantastic game. With the trailer debuting in September of 2020, I’m hopeful we’ll get the game in 2021.
The game takes place in the 1800s, well before Voldemort, Harry Potter, and the whole crew, and will explore your character as a student at Hogwarts, fine-tuning your skills to be the best wizard you can be, before letting you expand the world and explore other areas outside of Hogwarts and the many possibilities that lay beyond the castle walls.
It honestly gets me so hype to watch because your character will be growing and learning alongside you. I can already sense the feeling that I’m going to get attached. But really, it looks like it has the foundation and potential to be a fantastic simulation, role-playing, action-adventure game and it has me so hyped. Here’s hoping it lives up to my own hype!” – Mary

Tomb Raider: Reloaded

Not much is known about the actual gameplay or story of the game, but Square Enix has cited it as being an action-arcade game. This is the first time that Lara Croft will be raiding mobile devices and tablets instead of consoles and PCs. No exact date/time frame has been given at this moment but it was announced for a 2021 release.

“This will be a first for the Tomb Raider franchise, which just released its final, somewhat lackluster, game in the reboot trilogy just two years ago, as the game will be exclusive for phones and tablets. It’ll be free-to-play and is classified as an action-arcade game. While I’m waiting to pass judgement until I can actually play, I’m still excited. More Lara Croft? Yes please and thank you.” – Mary

RWBY Console Game

Little information is available for the game but it will be based on the series and is a collaborative effort between Rooster Teeth and WayForward. No exact date/time frame has been give at this moment but it was announced for a 2021 release.

“Also back in September, Rooster Teeth announced its collaboration with WayForward to develop a RWBY game for consoles, with the latter confirming the game to come out in 2021. My experience with RWBY games are limited, as I wasn’t the biggest fan of them outside of the mobile game Amity Arena. But I’m really excited to see the possibilities of a new console game, especially with how incredible this current volume is in terms of storytelling and scale. I look forward to see what comes out of this partnership!” – Mary

Gotham Knights

After the supposed-death of Bruce Wayne, AKA Batman, his cast of sidekicks – former and current – are now tasked with keeping Gotham safe. Play alone or have a partner tag along as you patrol the streets of Gotham to stop criminal activity in its tracks. No exact date/time frame has been given at this moment but it was announced for a 2021 release.

“I have yet to play any superhero game, at least to the best of my knowledge, so why not go big and start off with this one? It shifts the focus from the main character Batman to his supporting figures, often forgotten by those who don’t dive deeper into the lore of Batman outside of the big-budget films of the past two decades. Nightwing, Batgirl, Red Hood, and Robin are now tasked with protecting and guarding Gotham without the aid of Batman. Players will get to patrol the streets as one of the characters, and even team-up with another player and work together to keep Gotham safe.

I don’t know much of the lore and backstory with Batman’s Batfam outside of some Young Justice viewings and what we see in Titans on HBO Max, though I have, against my better knowledge, looked up The Killing Joke, and yeah, let’s not revisit that pain. Anyway, I’m excited to explore Batman’s hometown as one of his adopted kids and kick butt as one of my favorites, Nightwing (Dick Grayson supremacy over here). It’ll be interesting to see how the actual game compares to the trailer released by DC in August but I’m pumped.” – Mary

Honorable Mentions:
Halo Infinite – Fall 2021
Horizon Forbidden West – 2021

2021 in Other

Ratatouille the Musical / Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical (January 1, 2021 – January 3, 2021)

Based off of the viral TikTok videos by creators inspired by the original Disney animated film ‘Ratatouille’, Broadway favorites and legends are coming together to perform ‘Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical’, a collaborative effort to raise money for The Actors Fund.

“So I’m combining two things here, so bear with me, please?

First off, Ratatouille as a musical is a great idea. It’s honestly perfect for Broadway as was Hercules and The Hunchback of Notre Dame but if any were to take the stage next, especially after the closure of Frozen, it should be Ratatouille. What’s great is that it can incorporate some of the beloved elements of Beauty and the Beast as it transforms into a Broadway musical while also being inventive and creating a whole new show experience. You know those smell sprays they use for certain rides (like Mickey’s PhilharMagic Concert in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World) or like other shows like Waitress which pumped the smell of fresh-baked pies into its lobby every night, those can be used as Remy teaches Linguini how to cook, etc. It’d be a full-blown experience and I need it now. Also – the possibility for the dance numbers!! Give it to us, you cowards! @ Disney

Building off of this to my second thing – although there are no official plans right now to bring the show to the Broadway stage for an actual run, the TikTok musical which started this whole craze and is a collaborative effort of multiple creators on the site will be performed by Broadway favorites and icons for one-night-only, and available to rewatch for 72 hours. The event only costs $5 a ticket and proceeds are going to benefit The Actors Fund as a large portion of the live entertainment industry is facing the uncertainty of when their jobs will come back, some even questioning if they will. I’m not sure what to expect from this show but I am hoping that they include the music created by Sophia James who was my first exposure to the TikTok trend and whose music for this idea I fell in love with. I’m really hoping that this success continues and eventually leads to an actual musical being created.

If nothing else comes from this, at least it taught me how to properly spell R-A-T-A-T-O-U-I-L-L-E.” – Mary

Broadway (2021? Maybe? Hopefully? Doubtful…)

Due to the ongoing global Coronavirus pandemic, Broadway turned its lights off in March of 2020 and has yet to see a date of return. It is unclear when shows will resume.

“Will Broadway return in 2021? Maybe not. But I’m excited to see Jagged Little Pill maybe win a ton of Tony’s and I’m also excited to see the ways in which Broadway hopefully figures out a way to become more accessible and fitting to how we’re living in quarantine. We’ve seen Sis and those working with the Our Offering project create virtual theater and it’s been met with so much love and support, so there’s clearly support there. And even more significant to note, the people who create that project are Black trans women, showing that once again those who are ahead of the curve are the ones who were/are also rudely and wrongly excluded from the norm. Broadway would do right to follow in Sis’ footsteps the way that a lot of members of Broadway have joined in and worked with Sis on these shows.” – Brie

“The previous point has taken me to here, which is Broooooadway! With theaters literally being the last place people want to go or should be at, there’s no telling when Broadway will actually open back up. A shame, truly, as Broadway performers are incredible and absolutely love what they do, especially when you think of all the hard work that goes into every role.
There were plenty of awesome shows set to open in 2021, or those which had just started their run only to be abruptly paused, so I’m hoping that they will be able to find themselves pulling that big red curtain up shortly. That’s one of the things I’m looking forward to in 2021 (I hope).” – Mary

Meghan Markle & Prince Harry’s Podcast (Throughout 2021)

Announced in late 2020, Duchess Meghan Markle and Prince Harry signed a multi-year deal with Spotify which includes their new podcast, Archewell Audio. With the first episode dropping just after Christmas, many more are planned to be released in 2021, though exact dates are unknown at this time. Their press release for Archewell Audio states that the intention with each episode is to “build community through shared experience, narratives, and values.”

“A sweet, slightly belated holiday surprise was the Duchess and Duke’s Archewell Audio Podcast. The title comes from their Archewell Foundation, which was also named in honor of their son, Archie. While I haven’t been able to listen to the entirety of their holiday special which only dropped the morning of my writing this, the snippets I heard were lovely.

Meghan spoke of the fact they want to bring light to all those they can touch, that only this light and love can force out darkness. The two of them reference the fact that they played ‘This Little Light of Mine’ during the wedding as they walked down the aisle to leave, expressing how they wanted that to show what they wished for their marriage. The two are sweet, complementing each other well in tone, speech, and time. And it was super adorable to hear them coach Archie to wish everyone a happy new year.

Also, Meghan literally has the perfect voice for podcasts. I cannot wait for many more of these to come, focusing on the different topics they’re concerned with and seeing these little, sweet bits of their private life that they want to share, instead of having it forced out to the public by forces beyond their control. In this house, we like only one (1) Royal Family and that’s Meghan, Harry, and Archie.” – Mary

CallMeKevin Videos (Weekly YouTube Updates)

CallMeKevin is a Gaming YouTuber with over 2.6 million followers. He regularly causes chaos in the games he plays, cracking jokes along the way, and with unexpected outcomes galore.

“This feels so weird because this is the first time I’ve actually singled out a YouTuber/Gamer for content that I’m looking forward to in 2021? Anyway, CallMeKevin has been an incredibly entertaining and hilarious guy to watch during this last quarter of quarantine. Where GrayStillPlays got me through the second quarter, CallMeKevin really got me to the end. I thoroughly enjoy his Among Us game videos, which is what originally brought me to his channel because of a friend, but his other game videos are equally as entertaining. He’s a mix of a chaotic neutral and chaotic evil, giving us plenty of hilarity at the outrageousness. So I definitely look forward to what new games he’ll discover in 2021 as well as his Among Us addition to grow even stronger, especially once they add new maps and other content. It’s going to be fun for us, that’s for sure.” – Mary

Disclaimer: We do not own any of the pictures used for this post.

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Keep in touch with the Teenplicity Team on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Tumblr! Or you can directly contact Mary Ayers on Twitter and Tumblr or Brie Garrett on Twitter and Tumblr!