Leveling Up: The Most Exciting Games to Watch for in 2025, Including GTA6!

The release schedule for 2025 is uncertain, yet one question remains: Will Grand Theft Auto 6 actually launch this year? A studio infamous for perfectionism and delays has assured it, but its launch — along with the anticipated introduction of a new Nintendo console — will shake the entire industry.

Several significant games are also on the horizon, ranging from a high-stakes Assassin’s Creed installment to a delightful Lord of the Rings spinoff. Here are 25 of our most eagerly awaited games for 2025:

Avowed (Feb. 18)

Obsidian Entertainment possesses considerable experience replicating Bethesda’s open-world role-playing games. After multiple delays, the studio’s response to Skyrim is finally on the way — hopefully becoming my next passion in fantasy gaming. — Corey Bridges, associate producer, The Indicator

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 (Feb. 18)

The narrative adventure title Lost Records: Bloom & Rage will showcase four main characters confronting the repercussions of a mysterious incident from 1995 years later. Developed by the creators of the touching Life is Strange series, Lost Records appears set to offer significant immersive choices and an unforgettable narrative — I am excited to jump in! — Natalia Fidelholtz, talent development manager

Split Fiction (March 6)

This upcoming split-screen cooperative game combines the narratives of its two leads: science fiction author Mio and fantasy star Zoe. Also, it is developed by Hazelight Studios, known for It Takes Two. Count me in. — James Delahoussaye, producer, TED Radio Hour

Arkham Horror: The Drowned City (March 7)

Arkham Horror: The Drowned City guarantees to finally challenge us against Cthulhu! This expansion will introduce new mechanics and investigator cards, but what excites me the most are the new “personal motivations” that will influence the storyline depending on the investigators you’re utilizing. — Vanessa McGinnis, digital campaign manager

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (March 20)

Shadows has seen delays (twice) since its planned late 2024 release, which is a positive indicator for those weary of Ubisoft launching incomplete games. While it may be an unpopular opinion, I am hoping Shadows resembles Ghost of Tsushima — but even more enjoyable. — James Delahoussaye, producer, TED Radio Hour

Tales of the Shire (March 25)

To be honest — I hardly keep up with The Lord of the Rings, yet I have a fondness for cozy farming simulations that allow me to cook and cultivate crops. This game almost guarantees that I can bring my best friend and husband into participating with me — I am only able to play through Stardew Valley so many times! — Emily Alfin Johnson, growth editor, network initiatives 

Monster Hunter Wilds (March 28)

Monster Hunter Wilds will bring forth new environments, bird-like raptor mounts, auxiliary weapons, and a focus mode designed to precisely target a Monster’s vulnerability. I am also delighted for the return of the slinger from 2018’s Monster Hunter World! — Vanessa McGinnis, digital campaign manager

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves (April 24)

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, the highly anticipated follow-up to 1999’s Garou: Mark of the Wolves, revives a 2D fighting series famed for its vivid characters and rapid-paced action. Playtests throughout 2024 have garnered significant acclaim for the extensive opportunities offered by its combo system and mechanics that canshift the energy of games at the snap of a finger. — Lindsay Totty, producer, Morning Edition

Oath: New Foundations (Nov. TBD)

Oath: New Foundations assures a collection of fresh mechanics for the classic board game along with an extensive single-player mode for those like myself who struggle to find companions willing to unravel its intricacies. I’m eager to monopolize my kitchen table with tales of realms and deception, but inform me if you’re courageous enough to face it with another player! — Austin Frank, director, Institutional Giving

Borderlands 4 (TBD)

As a long-time enthusiast of Gearbox’s looter-shooter series, I’m thrilled for another major entry! Let’s hope the primary villain is more unforgettable than the previous game’s Calypso Twins. — Corey Bridges, associate producer, The Indicator

Death Stranding 2 (TBD)

I was thrilled about the initial Death Stranding for years leading up to its release, but I never had the endurance to complete it. Now, following the delightfully bizarre trailer for Death Stranding 2, I’m excited to immerse myself in Hideo Kojima’s peculiar world once more. Perhaps I’ll manage to finish it this time. — Justin Lucas, senior director, Communications

Dispatch (TBD)

I worry that the sequel to The Wolf Among Us may forever remain unrealized, yet much of the original game’s team established a different studio to create Dispatch. Featuring the vocal talents of Laura Bailey and Aaron Paul, I’m hopeful that this superhero comedy can fulfill Telltale’s golden era. — James Mastromarino, NPR Gaming lead and Here & Now producer

Elden Ring: Nightreign (TBD)

Nightreign appears to be an endeavor to refine Elden Ring’s precise combat and expansive exploration into a format akin to a cooperative extraction game. I’m uncertain of its potential, but if it proves as engaging as my cherished Hunt: Showdown, I’m sure I’ll be rallying all my friends to give it a try. — James Mastromarino, NPR Gaming lead and Here & Now producer

Fable 4 (TBD)

Though I’m only cautiously hopeful, the preview for Fable 4 has me wishing for an enthralling narrative and a return to the franchise’s distinctive humor. Fingers crossed! — Natalia Fidelholtz, talent development manager

Ghost of Yōtei (TBD)

Ghost of Tsushima was exceptional. I’ve encountered a few decent, yet relatively muddled imitators since then (looking at you, Rise of the Rōnin), so I’m optimistic that Ghost of Yōtei can genuinely expand upon its magnificent predecessor. — Justin Lucas, senior director, Communications

Grand Theft Auto 6 (TBD)

My family and I have been residents of the GTA universe since its inception. Rockstar has continually impressed with the series, and we anticipate GTA6 to be more expansive and superior than ever! — Jonas Adams, director, All Things Considered

Hades 2 Full Release (TBD)

I’m eager to accumulate powers and forge alliances with new deities in the comprehensive launch of a sequel that has already had a remarkable early access phase. Greek mythology never truly resonated with me until this franchise, featuring characters that overshadow those from movies, television, and literature. — Regina G. Barber, host and reporter, Short Wave

Hollow Knight: Silksong (TBD)

Hollow Knight: Silksong has once more secured a spot on this list for the third consecutive year! I’m not going to breathe in anticipation or make requests to the universe, but I’m thrilled that the dream could come true in 2025. — River Williamson, software engineer

Judas (TBD)

Shrouded in secrecy for years, Judas marks the next creation by legendary director Ken Levine in everything but title. Consume me. — James Delahoussaye, producer, TED Radio Hour

Lost & Found Co. (TBD)

I have a fondness for engaging hidden object games, and Lost & Found Co. appears to be a whimsical, cozy puzzler with an enjoyable narrative and a vibrant world to explore. Bit Egg Inc. hasn’t officially disclosed a release date, but I hope we get to experience this game this year! — Rakiesha Chase-Jackson, project manager, Member Partnership

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (TBD)

As an admirer of Super Metroid and the more recent Metroid Dread, I eagerly await Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. It’s been almost two decades since the last Metroid Prime installment, so I hope Nintendo releases it alongside a new Switch console this year. — Alba Karuni, senior insight analyst