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It’s challenging to ascertain exactly what’s on the horizon for video games in 2025. Grand Theft Auto VI is rumored to be released at some point this year. It’s a statement that could have been part of a list like this for the last decade, but an official trailer from Rockstar Games disclosed that it’s finally time to revisit their delightfully chaotic playground. If fans experience GTA VI at any moment prior to December 31, that game alone will secure 2025 as one of the most significant years in video game history. Fortunately, it isn’t the sole title we have our sights set on this year.
If you examine the list of titles slated for 2025 below, you might spot a few resemblances. So far, there are very few confirmed release dates for the year. Word on the street is that developers are waiting for GTA VI to announce its release date. Similar to Wicked: For Good or an unexpected Beyoncé album, no one desires to compete with the highly awaited blockbuster. The same sentiment applies to the anticipated launch of the newly announced Nintendo Switch 2.
Should either occurrence transpire this year, we can deem 2025 a success. Yet, even if we all appear foolish with egg on our faces, 2025 is still abundant with remarkable titles. An Elden Ring cooperative spin-off is scheduled for later this year. Additionally, we anticipate numerous sequels for Ghost of Tsushima, Death Stranding, The Outer Worlds, and Pokémon Legends. Below, we compiled a list of our twenty-eight most awaited video games for 2025.
Citizen Sleeper 2
What we know: Upon the release of Citizen Sleeper in 2022, the creative text-based adventure quickly became one of my favorite games of the year. Players begin as a humble spaceship mechanic seeking a way off the station to secure their freedom. There’s a limited number of actions a player can execute each day to progress towards their goal, and dice rolls decide the success of every task.
Why we’re thrilled: We included Citizen Sleeper’s DLC in our list of the Best Video Games of 2023. Thus, I’m optimistic that the sequel’s enhancements will elevate an already great game.
Release Date: January 31
Civilization VII
What we know: The Esquire team doesn’t possess extensive experience with Civilization firsthand, but the Risk-like strategy game is set for a significant update in its seventh edition. The city builder will span three epochs, according to Games Radar, including Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Players will also have the opportunity to pick a new civilization for each epoch, in addition to selecting one of six traits that will influence the gameplay in the future.
Why we’re thrilled: Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones) lends her voice to the in-game narrator.
Release Date: February 11
Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII (PlayStation 5)
Avowed
What we are aware of: Did you enjoy Skyrim? If so, Avowed could be the next remarkable addition for you. This forthcoming role-playing game was initially suggested as Obsidian studio’s interpretation of the widely-known Elder Scrolls RPG.
Reasons we are thrilled: Obsidian has an impressive history following Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds, so I’m eager to see how they intend to approach a Dungeons & Dragons-like environment next.
Launch Date: February 18
Avowed (Xbox Series X|S)
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage
What we are aware of: Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is yet another story-driven adventure set to arrive in early 2025. The narrative revolves around four high school females in a punk band who undergo significant transformations due to an enigmatic incident.
Reasons we are thrilled: The upcoming title is crafted by the creators of Life Is Strange, which garnered much praise back in 2015. Lost Records will launch in two parts on February 18 and March 18, so I’m anticipating a captivating cliffhanger in between the installments.
Launch Date: February 18 (Part 1) and March 18 (Part II)
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
What we are aware of: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is not only a mouthful, but it ranks among the most anticipated video games entering the early part of 2025. The Yakuza spinoff RPG showcases Goro Majima—an enduring fan-favorite character from the series—as he awakens with memory loss and ventures onto the open waters.
Reasons we are thrilled: I have no clue what to anticipate, but the more eccentric, the better when it comes to the Yakuza series these days. If it’s anything like the outstanding Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii will embody the essence of countless incredible games all in one.
Launch Date: February 21
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii (PlayStation 5)
Monster Hunter Wilds
What we know: Monster Hunter Wilds is the newest action game from Capcom that immerses players in a novel unexplored universe to, well, hunt beasts. The creator aims to expand on the triumphs of both Monster Hunter Worlds and Monster Hunter Rise to forge the finest iteration of both within a single game this time.
Why we’re thrilled: Wilds will launch equipped with cooperative multiplayer and monster behaviors that adapt according to the weather and the time of day.
Release Date: February 28
Monster Hunter Wilds (PlayStation 5)
Split Fiction
What we know: Split Fiction was among the most thrilling titles unveiled during the 2024 Game Awards. This action-adventure title from It Takes Two director Josef Fares seeks to merge fantasy and science fiction as players collaborate to tackle platforming challenges and intricate puzzles.
Why we’re thrilled: We cherish any opportunity to play alongside a partner that extends beyond just another round of Mario Kart. (No hard feelings, Mario.)
Release Date: March 6
Split Fiction (Playstation 5)
Assassins Creed Shadows
What we know: Following the triumph of Sekiro, nearly every prominent gaming corporation commenced development on a game centered around a protagonist wielding a katana. Titles such as Ghost of Tsushima, Rise of the Ronin, and most recently, Black Myth: Wukong exemplify this trend. Therefore, it was only fitting that Ubisoft would eventually locate one of its yearly Assassins Creed installments in Edo era Japan.
Why we’re thrilled: In Shadows, gamers will alternate between Yasuke, the iconic Black samurai who served the shogun, and Naoe, a female assassin with a specialization in stealth tactics.
Release Date: March 20
Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Limited Edition (Amazon Exclusive for the PlayStation 5)
Borderlands 4
What we know: The beloved looter-shooter franchise faces significant competition in contrast to when its predecessor, Borderlands 3, launched in 2019. Nevertheless, developer Gearbox Software maintains hope that long-standing admirers of the genre will return for the forthcoming chapter. After all, Borderlands 3 achieved over 15 million copies sold, as per a report from May 2022.
Why we’re eager: Although I can’t address the quality of that unappealing Borderlands film, I can assure you that Borderlands 4 is an eagerly awaited video game that requires no familiarity with said movie.
Release Date: TBA
Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition (PlayStation 5)
Cairn
What we know: This indie climbing title is unlike anything witnessed before. Absolutely, there are plenty of games that feature climbing now. However, Cairn is exclusively concentrating on utilizing this mechanic to create a mountain-climbing experience.
Why we’re thrilled: Cairn appears to be both demanding and strangely calming simultaneously—much like actual climbing!
Release Date: TBA
Death Stranding 2
What we know: Game designer Hideo Kojima is diligently working to wrap up the sequel to the divisive 2019 title, Death Stranding. This action title and package-delivery simulator featured Norman Reedus and Mads Mikkelsen as players navigated a vast landscape to mend a fractured world. The fame for Death Stranding increased once the game bore resemblance to the Covid-19 pandemic that emerged shortly after its launch. Now, Kojima is preparing the sequel for release in 2025.
Why we’re thrilled: Kojima’s creativity is through the roof for this one. There are individuals wielding electric guitars, small talking puppets, and cameos from the Mad Max director George Miller.
Release Date: TBA
Death Stranding – Directors Cut (PlayStation 5)
Doom: The Dark Ages
What we know: Doom: The Dark Ages serves as a narrative prequel to the recent Doom series that was revitalized in 2019, but I believe that simply implies we can expect some swords and shields alongside our collection of firearms. If that metallic dragon from the trailer signifies anything, The Dark Ages could still harbor some surprises.“`html
data-journey-content=”true” data-node-id=”72″ class=”css-1nd4gv7 emevuu60″>Why we’re thrilled: Doom: The Dark Ages‘s promotion introduced me to the term “techno-medieval.” For that reason alone, I’m convinced that the forthcoming shooter will be a success.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Dune: Awakening
What we understand: Video games inspired by films often don’t have a stellar reputation. The previous Dune conversion was a real-time strategy title termed Dune: Spice Wars, which PC Gamer noted had “insufficient depth in its interconnected systems nor an engaging narrative hook.” Well, Dune: Awakening is produced by the same publisher as Dune: Spice Wars.
Why we’re thrilled: The two titles couldn’t appear more dissimilar. The fresh release is an open-world MMO, resembling a fusion of Final Fantasy XIV and Starfield born on Arakkis.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Elden Ring: Nightreign
What we understand: Prior to the 2024 Game Awards trailer (above), I could have sworn that FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki informed IGN that we would not witness an Elden Ring sequel. And yet, Elden Ring: Nightreign is set to debut in 2025, aiming to transform the torturous ordeal of perishing repeatedly to the same adversary into a collective journey.
Why we’re thrilled: I suppose Miyazaki was partly truthful, as the cooperative offshoot appears less like a full-fledged sequel and more as if FromSoft turned everyone’s unauthorized multiplayer mods into an official offering.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Sony Elden Ring (PlayStation 5)
Fable
What we understand: Forza Horizon developer Playground Games aims to resurrect the Fable franchise in 2025, despite the fact that fans have not witnessed much of the team’s endeavors thus far. The action-adventure RPG is believed to be penned by Horizon Forbidden West’s Andrew Walsh.
Why we’re thrilled: Fable will probably not feature Forza Horizon‘s sports cars, yet the loyalty surrounding this series of RPGs is profound.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Ghost of Yotei
What we understand: Ghost of Tsushima is set to receive a sequel this year in Ghost of Yotei, focusing on a female samurai named Atsu. In this installment, players will supposedly have greater leverage over the protagonist’s narrative decisions than previously.
Why we’re thrilled: The tranquil yet demanding original game was adored by players in 2020, and titles situated in feudal Japan have only gained traction since then.
Expected Release Date:
“`TBA
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut (PlayStation 5)
Grand Theft Auto 6
What we have learned: Prior to Grand Theft Auto 6, we got affirmation of the Nintendo Switch 2. Incredible! The upcoming installment of this immensely successful series is said to be set in Vice City, showcasing a Bonnie & Clyde-like storyline. Discerning the difference between fact and mere speculation is challenging, given the numerous leaks from Rockstar Games. Yet, enthusiasts are merely wishing that everything goes seamlessly once they obtain GTA 6.
Why we are thrilled: Before Minecraft emerged, Grand Theft Auto V held the title of the best-selling video game of all time. The expectation to create a remarkable sequel is probably why the sixth edition has been postponed, but there’s arguably never been a title more eagerly awaited in the history of gaming.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Hollow Knight: Silksong
What we have learned: It seems unjust to include the Hollow Knight sequel in the list since there is presently no assurance of a 2025 launch. The latest update from the developers was in May 2023, when they reported that “development is still ongoing.”
Why we are thrilled: Hollow Knight achieved significant success within the Metroidvania genre, contending with Super Mario Odyssey, Persona 5, and even The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for the 2017’s Game of the Year. Take all the time you need on the sequel, TeamCherry!
Expected Release Date: TBA
Hyper Light Breaker
What we have learned: Heart Machine aims to captivate followers of the 2016 Hyper Light Breaker this year with the release of a 3D roguelike situated in the same universe.
Why we are thrilled: Hyper Light Drifter was among my top favorite 2D indie games of 2016. This action title was a nostalgic nod to 8-bit sword-fighting games, much like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. This year, Hyper Light Breaker will broaden the concept to emphasize multiplayer interactions.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Mafia: The Old Country
What we know: Are you frustrated with not having access to Grand Theft Auto 6 yet? Check out Mafia: The Old Country. This crime narrative promises to be a more straightforward experience compared to Grand Theft Auto, as it allegedly explores the early beginnings of the mafia in Sicily during the 1900s.
Why we are thrilled: A trailer replete with cutscenes presented at the 2024 Game Awards indicates that Mafia: The Old Country will encompass a significant amount of storytelling. We are completely okay with that! I would relish a mafia-themed Red Dead Redemption anytime.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
What we have learned: In the wake of Hideo Kojima’s separation from Konami, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will mark the inaugural title to advance the franchise without the guidance of its originator. (We prefer not to mention Metal Gear Survive.) This new installment is a remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater developed using the enhanced Unreal Engine 5, which powers games such as Fortnite and Tekken 8.
Why we are thrilled: Konami excelled with the much-lauded Silent Hill 2 remake. Despite the absence of Kojima’s engagement, there’s still a glimmer of hope.
Release Date:TBA
METAL GEAR SOLID Δ: SNAKE EATER TACTICAL EDITION
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
What we know: The forthcoming 3D Metroid installment is planned for release in 2025, as Nintendo aims to capitalize on the successful 2023 remaster of the initial Metroid Prime.
Why we’re excited: Not only is the fourth Metroid Prime installment due for considerable anticipation in 2025, but the prospective game is speculated to be a launch title for Nintendo Switch 2.
Release Date: TBA
Metroid Prime Remastered (Nintendo Switch)
The Outer Worlds 2
What we know: Obsidian showcased a quirky trailer for their sequel to The Outer Worlds at the 2024 Game Awards. The studio intends to expand upon their eccentric, story-centric shooter that gained them recognition in 2019.
Why we’re excited: As per Obsidian, the sequel will emphasize action more, alongside “everything that should have been included in the original game.”
Release Date: TBA
The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition (Xbox Series X|S)
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
What we know: Pokémon Legends: Arceus marked a milestone. While there could be endless debates regarding the game’s visual shortcomings, the opportunity to freely explore and toss a Pokéball at the adorable creatures was groundbreaking for the established franchise. Fans of Pokémon were ecstatic with the announcement of a sequel set for a 2025 launch.
Why we’re enthusiastic: It’s foolish not to engage in every primary installment boasting the Pokémon moniker. I can’t clarify what “Z-A” signifies, but we shall discover it later this year.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Pokémon Legends: Arceus (Nintendo Switch)
Shadow Labyrinth
What we know: If you’re still producing Pac-Man games in 2025, the conventional map will no longer suffice. It’s time to innovate. Thanks to an unusually quirky trailer revealed at the 2024 Game Awards, the forthcoming Bandai Namco game has reinvented the standard Metroidvania by adding a yellow puck-sized feature. Fans will have to bide their time until later in 2025 to witness the peculiar surprises that are in store.
Why we’re thrilled: It’s hard to ascertain whether this is a fresh approach to experiencing Pac-Man, or if Shadow Labyrinth merely resembles Pac-Man too much. Introduce me to Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde, and then we shall converse.
Expected Release Date: TBA
Slay the Spire 2
What we know: The indie deck-building roguelike game is slated to get an official sequel in 2025, as indicated by its trailer from the 2024 Game Awards. The title will be available in early access shortly. Following that, developer Mega Crit hopes to refine the game with assistance from the fanbase.
Why we’re looking forward to it: Slay the Spire 2 will include new cards and characters to blend, such as a necromancer referred to as the Necrobinder.
Expected Release Date: TBA
South of Midnight
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What we know: South of Midnight is an upcoming Microsoft exclusive set to be released in 2025, aiming to delve into the Deep South’s gothic folklore.
Why we’re thrilled: The latest gameplay trailer presented a first-person action-adventure game with stunning visuals. Players take on the role of a character named Hazel, who conjures magic and battles creatures.
Release Date: TBA
The Witcher 4
What we know: Transitioning from Geralt, The Witcher IV intends to follow his adoptive daughter, Ciri. A cinematic trailer debuted at the 2024 Game Awards, hinting at a captivating storyline that will expand on The Witcher‘s highly regarded narrative.
Why we’re thrilled: Even though there’s no set release date yet, the trailer displayed some of the most thrilling content from the Game Awards. It may not have been gameplay, but any enhancement to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is sure to please gamers.
Release Date: TBA
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition (Xbox Series X)
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