2025 promises to stand out as a thrilling year for gaming, bringing a diverse array of highly anticipated titles that build upon the releases of 2024. While last year saw major hits like Starfield and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, 2025 could take the excitement up a notch with blockbuster releases such as GTA VI, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Doom: The Dark Ages.
Here are a few highlights to look forward to:
Monster Hunter Wilds
When Monster Hunter Wilds was announced, fans of the series practically roared in unison. The new installment will build on the franchise’s legacy of immersive monster battles and ecosystem exploration, offering expansive new environments and an improved co-op experience. The devs have promised a more seamless co-op experience, larger open-world zones, and fewer loading screens.
Doom: The Dark Ages
The Doom franchise has been a staple of gaming since its inception, and The Dark Ages prequel looks ready to push the boundaries once again. With a medieval-inspired setting, the eighth Doom entry promises to combine the series’ signature high-octane combat with fresh narrative twists.
Fable
Microsoft’s Fable reboot has long been a topic of speculation, but fans of the medieval fantasy RPG are ready to step back into Albion. The developers are promising the humor, charm, and whimsy that made the original trilogy so beloved, alongside modern graphics and mechanics.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
The original Kingdom Come: Deliverance set a new standard for immersive, historically grounded action RPGs. Its sequel promises to deliver more of the same, with improved mechanics, a conclusion to the original story, and a beautifully rendered medieval world.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
The remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is stirring nostalgia for fans of the original stealth game. The gameplay will retain the core stealth-action elements that defined Hideo Kojima’s original series, enhanced with modern graphics and revamped controls for a smoother experience.
Grand Theft Auto VI
Could a list of anticipated games be complete without GTA VI? Though fans have waited over a decade since GTA V’s release, the promise of a new installment has the gaming world holding its breath. Rumors suggest that GTA VI will feature a sprawling map spanning multiple cities, including a return to Vice City, and a dual-protagonist system with a Bonnie-and-Clyde-inspired storyline. Enhanced AI and realistic environmental interactions are also anticipated.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Nintendo fans have been waiting patiently for Metroid Prime 4. Could 2025 finally be the year? Rumors suggest that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will introduce expansive, interconnected maps with seamless transitions, refined scanning mechanics, and even more challenging boss encounters.
Hades 2
Supergiant Games hit gold with Hades, and its sequel is well on its way to replicating that success. Currently in Early Access, Hades 2 promises even more mythology-infused storytelling, fast-paced combat, and gorgeous visuals. Fans are eagerly awaiting its full release, hoping for another addictive roguelike masterpiece.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
The Like a Dragon series (formerly Yakuza) has built its reputation on creative storytelling and dynamic combat systems. In this Hawaiian-set installment, players will explore a tropical backdrop while navigating a pirate-themed narrative full of twists, chaotic brawls, and eccentric characters. The game is rumored to introduce ship-based combat and expanded exploration mechanics.
Civ VII
For turn-based strategy enthusiasts, Civilization VII is the Holy Grail of 2025. The long-running series is rumored to introduce more dynamic diplomacy systems, including real-time negotiations and emergent alliances, alongside expanded historical scenarios that delve deeper into alternate timelines. Additionally, enhanced AI for both allies and adversaries aims to create more realistic and challenging strategic gameplay.
Honorable Mentions
- Death Stranding 2: Hideo Kojima’s next masterpiece?
- Slay the Spire 2: A deck-building dream.
- Avowed: Obsidian’s newest RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe.
- Ghost of Yotei: A spiritual successor to Ghost of Tsushima?
- Silksong: Will it finally release?
