The Top 80 Most Anticipated Games of 2025 According to Eurogamer

Greetings and Happy New Year everyone! As we reacquaint ourselves with our keyboards and coffee cups, it’s time to embark on another year of gaming – and as we look ahead to the upcoming year, it has come to our attention that the 2025 release calendar is overflowing with the latest and most exhilarating games set to launch. So what better way to kick off the new year than by compiling a comprehensive list of all the titles we are most excited about?

To be honest, it’s a somewhat vague year for now. As you will soon notice, very little has actually been confirmed beyond March at this point, with most titles timidly clinging to their standard ‘2025’ tags until – one can only hope – a notable Rockstar-shaped giant emerges more prominently. Certainly, 2025 is shaping up to be a year significantly influenced by the massive impact of GTA 6, so don’t be surprised if release dates shift or get announced earlier than expected as everyone does their utmost to navigate around this unavoidable attention grabber.

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9 Exciting 2025 Open-World Games We Can’t Wait to Play

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However, even with much of the year still uncertain, it feels like it’s going to be one of the most exciting ones in quite some time – definitely on the blockbuster front, at last, but there are also plenty of indie titles we’re eager to experience, too. Below, you will find the 80 games we’re most eager for in 2025, organized by date for those we know about, and then alphabetically for everything that is yet to be confirmed. First, though, let’s address that prominent hardware elephant in the room…

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Switch 2 and its launch titles

We still do not know what the Switch 2 is going to be called, but whatever it is, you can bet that the console, along with the potential launch titles, will definitely be high on all our collective lists of ‘Things we cannot wait to play in 2025.’

The introduction of a brand-new console is always an exciting moment in the gaming calendar, especially when the Switch initially launched with one of the greatest games of the last decade, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While it’s improbable we’ll get another Zelda alongside the Switch 2, I wouldn’t be shocked if we saw a Mario game of some sort, which – yes, that’s definitely something I would love to play this year. So consider this entry as a significant placeholder for all the Switch 2 launch titles, because regardless of what they turn out to be, you can bet we’ll be eagerly anticipating their release. Now, let’s dive into the games!

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Hyper Light Breaker

• Release date: 14th January 2025 (early access)
• Platforms: PC

As the successor to Hyper Light Drifter, Breaker is shaping up to be quite a different endeavor. It is 3D for starters, and leans more towards a co-op action roguelike than a purely single-player experience. Yet I am always thrilled by developers who are willing to throw out their own rulebooks to attempt something new, and I can’t wait to see what unique worlds we’ll be able to explore and conquer in Breaker’s ever-evolving Overgrowth realm. – Katharine

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD

• Release date: 16th January 2025
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch

The decision to launch an HD remaster of Donkey Kong’s classic Wii platformer might seem odd in a world where his vastly better adventure in Tropical Freeze already exists on Switch, but hey, if you are looking to start the new year with a grin, this isn’t a bad way to do it. Returns was a blast when it first launched 15 years ago (especially those thrilling mine cart levels), and I can’t wait to revisit it in just a few weeks. – Katharine

Blade Chimera

• Release date: 16th January 2025
• Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch

I must admit I didn’t know much about Blade Chimera until the end of last year, but once I found out Team Ladybug had a new Metroidvania arriving in January, my interest was instantly piqued. Certainly, Team Ladybug is probably better known for its sidescrolling shoot ’em ups than their Metroid-style games (check out Touhou Luna Knights, Drainus, etc.), but I adored the studio’s 2020 title Record of Lodoss War: Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth, and Blade Chimera appears to be…
“`be to be akin to being highly deserving more of that – although set within a demon-ridden, cyberpunk-laden version of Osaka rather than the cherished 90s anime collection. – Katharine

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist

• Release date: January 22, 2025
• Platforms: PC (1.0), Nintendo Switch

The follow-up to one of the finest Metroidvanias of recent years, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist has been in early access on PC for much of the past year. It’s now launching fully, along with a version for Switch, and believe me, this is the one, folks. Set many decades after the events of 2021’s Ender Lillies: Quietus of the Knights (which you should definitely play if you haven’t yet, although it’s not mandatory before diving into this), Magnolia is again focused on exploring and wielding enemy powers to navigate your way through a desolate and enigmatic fantasy realm as you strive to prevent complete destruction. It’s remarkable stuff, so if you’re a fan of outstanding Metroidvania titles, ensure this one is on your radar. – Katharine

Eternal Strands

• Release date: January 28, 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Despite its unfortunately forgettable title, Eternal Strands – from former Dragon Age creative director Mike Laidlaw’s studio Yellow Brick Games – is challenging material. It’s a fantasy action-RPG drawing inspiration from titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Shadow of the Colossus, with a dash of Monster Hunter mixed in as players venture into a cataclysm-stricken “open zone” world – scaling 25-meter-high climbable creatures known as the Arks to gather resources necessary for crafting new weapons and armor back at a dilapidated camp. Central to this is the highly-promoted interaction between protagonist Brynn’s magical abilities and the environment – its fluctuating temperatures and a purportedly “next generation” physics system – promising “unprecedented reactivity”. What this means in practical terms remains to be seen, but it certainly has the potential to be captivating. – Matt

The Stone of Madness

• Release date: January 28, 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

After making a mark with its impressively intense Blasphemous series, developer The Game Kitchen is embarking on something a bit different with The Stone of Madness. This Goya-inspired stealth-tactics adventure unfolds in an 18th-century Spanish Monastery – part prison, part asylum – situated somewhere in the Pyrenees mountains. Players must aid five prisoners in their escape, utilizing their unique abilities across two distinct narrative campaigns. There is a Darkest Dungeon-style twist, however; characters have evolving traumas and phobias that can be triggered during missions, fundamentally altering how they play. Moreover, players can tackle objectives both during the day and in the haunted (and potentially more rewarding) night. It’s challenging material and it’s coming soon. – Matt

Citizen Sleeper 2

• Release date: January 31, 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch

Though small in scope, Citizen Sleeper is one of the most tender and uplifting games I’ve experienced. Just thinking about it warms my heart. A sequel, even by its simple existence, is exciting, but what makes it even more thrilling are the enhancements in gameplay and design since its predecessor. As seen in the demo, Citizen Sleeper 2 presents a more defined RPG structure and a more engaging – more tension-filled – experience. This could turn out to be something spectacular. – Bertie

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

• Release date: February 4, 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series S/X

Kingdom Come: Deliverance remains one of the most distinctive role-playing games in recent years. Set in the historical Czech Republic – Bohemia – and grounded in historical accuracy, it offers a world as authentic as history books can illustrate. There’s a fictional narrative running through it that adds drama, but the real charm lies in being transported to a time and place few other games have explored. I am eager to return. – Bertie

Civilization 7

• Release date: February 11, 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Wow, a brand new Civ! There’s something wonderfully extravagant about a brand new Civilization title. A game that encompasses all of human history, a celebration of advancement and effort, this is indeed a massive endeavor to dominate. Having played it for a few hours, I can tell you that up close, the new art style is a real delight. I might even add that it feels very much like a Civ game still, despite

Some leading, arguably contentious modifications to tech landscapes and eras. Additionally, Gwendoline Christie as the current narrator reciting all those delightful tiny quotes is inspiring. It’s time for the comeback of One Extra Twist. – Chris

Urban Legend Dissolution Hub

• Release date: 13th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch

Murder mystery enthusiasts, pay attention! In this engrossing collection of supernatural crime cases, you step into the shoes of aspiring detective Azami Fukurai as you strive to uncover the secrets of strange events in Tokyo. I was a tremendous admirer of developer Hakababunko’s previous work, Makoto Wakaido’s Case Files Trilogy from 2023, and if its extraordinary Steam Next Fest demo was any indication, this appears poised to elevate its methodical approaches of evidence gathering and logical reasoning. As you try to distinguish between reality and illusion, this could potentially captivate both crime aficionados and Japanese folklore scholars alike. – Katharine

Date Everything!

• Release date: 14th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Ever wanted to date your refrigerator? No, me neither. However, after viewing the trailer for Date Everything!, I’m genuinely excited to romance kitchen appliances, a toilet, a nightmare, and a rubber duck this Valentine’s Day, in what looks to be a humorous yet occasionally touching take on dating reminiscent of something like Boyfriend Dungeon. – Jessica

Assassin’s Creed Shadows

• Release date: 14th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Stealthy rooftop escapades (or boisterous samurai stomping) set in feudal Japan? Absolutely! Ubisoft’s renowned assassination series finally ventures into the long-awaited realm of shinobi, thanks to the team behind the brilliant Assassin’s Creed Odyssey from 2018. Following a significant delay and amidst challenging times for Ubisoft itself, anticipation for Shadows is soaring. – Tom P

Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered

• Release date: 14th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5/PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Okay, don’t judge me, but I’m genuinely eager to revisit Angel of Darkness when Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered comes out next month. Yes, I understand it is one of the most poorly received Tomb Raider titles, so perhaps I acknowledge it is bad with a capital B, but what can I say? I do have a bit of a soft spot for Lara’s double denim and her Parisian parkour antics. Alongside Angel of Darkness, Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered will also feature Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation and Tomb Raider: Chronicles. Just like last year’s Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered, this upcoming collection will include enhanced visuals and the option to switch between classic and modern graphics. Pyramid scheme? For me, this feels more like a pyramid dream. – Victoria

Avowed

• Release date: 18th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

I’m a fan of Obsidian and the Pillars of Eternity series, so I have closely tracked this first-person take on the world of Eora since its announcement. However, it has faced a shaky journey, struggling somewhat in its series of early gameplay trailers to convince us of its merits. Nonetheless, there is a fantastic world here and what seems to be intriguing mechanics, and I would never dismiss a team like Obsidian. – Bertie

Lost Records: Bloom and Rage

• Release date: 18th February 2025 (Chapter 1), 18th March 2025 (Chapter 2)
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

A brand new narrative-driven game from the innovative team behind Life is Strange 1 and 2, Lost Records aims to capture the same coming-of-age magic with realistic elements that enchanted a massive following previously. There are some great elements here too: interactive imagery gameplay and lively crowd dialogue that genuinely makes this seem a notch above even the most recent Life is Strange installment. – Tom P

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

• Release Date: 20th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS5/PS4

What’s better than being a pirate? How about being a pirate in Hawaii, mixed with all the typical Treasure a Dragon humor and mini-games? In this spin-off, Majima takes center stage, and plenty of fierce combat awaits, but don’t forget you can also sing karaoke or wander around delivering food in Crazy Deliveries if the pirate life gets too intense. – Marie

Monster Hunter Wilderness

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• Release date: 28th February 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Capcom’s most popular and exceptional Monster Hunter experience appears to be its most remarkable and ambitious yet, and of course, every new monster and quest makes me want to shout a loud “So delicious!” just like its titular hunters preparing a massive piece of monster meat. Let the competition for the best dino hat and pants combo commence. – Katharine

Morsels

• Release date: February 2025
• Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch

You might have just caught Morsels during one of Nintendo’s Indie World presentations last year, and the excitement of that trailer alone, showcasing massive sentient noses in hoodies, ladders with eyeball stalks, and devilish pigeons, was enough to immediately add it to my wishlist. A quirky and fascinating roguelite where you will switch between all sorts of whimsical characters to navigate your way out of the sewers, Morsels looks like an intriguingly bizarre blend of Nobody Saves the World and The Binding of Isaac – which is a pretty potent combination, if you ask me. – Katharine

Two Point Museum

• Release date: 4th March 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Two Point games are always a delight, combining part management simulation with a dose of British humor. Two Point Museum seems to be another incredibly fun experience, only this time we are aiming to build a museum empire, and now we have the ability to create partition walls that I might be a little too excited about. – Jessica

Split Fiction

• Release date: 6th March 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

I can’t wait to see what Hazelight Studios – the minds behind the exciting co-op platformer It Takes Two – have in store for Split Fiction. It’s the studio’s next co-op title, and it looks like it will be a blast. There’s even the promise of a dance battle with a monkey. Umm, yes please! In Split Fiction, players will take on the roles of either Mio or Zoe, two aspiring authors, as they leap between sci-fi and fantasy realms. All I can say is that I hope my husband is ready for more chaotic couch co-op escapades, because I plan to dive into this on day one. – Victoria

Wanderstop

• Release date: 11th March 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5

Wanderstop may seem like a relaxed game about running a teashop, but there’s undoubtedly more brewing than just tea. Alta, the protagonist, used to be a warrior and her past experiences haunt her more than she’d like to admit. Given that Wanderstop is crafted by Davey Wreden (creator of The Stanley Parable and Beginner’s Guide) and co-written with Karla Zimonja, known for Gone Home, we shouldn’t be surprised if there’s more depth to this game than initially apparent. Personally, I can’t wait to see how Wanderstop shapes the cozy game genre. – Lottie

Xenoblade Chronicles X Remastered

• Release date: 20th March 2025
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch

The black sheep of the Xenoblade Chronicles family, I truly never expected to see this game outside of its Wii U origins. Nevertheless, it’s exhilarating to rediscover this unique and exceptional JRPG! Its focus on sci-fi is slightly more complex than its numbered counterparts, featuring mechs, vibrant cities, and an intergalactic threat, but once you step inside its massive metal suits and realize there’s a whole other layer to this impossibly captivating world, Xenoblade Chronicles X retains that same sense of wonder and excitement that made the series so intriguing from the very beginning. – Katharine

Atomfall

• Release date: 27th March 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One

Inspired by the real-life events of the 1957 Windscale incident and developed by Sniper Elite studio Rebel, Atomfall imagines what might happen five years later in a fictional village in northern England that remains trapped within its own quarantine zone. A survival adventure game that is part Fallout, part Metro, and perhaps a touch of Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, Atomfall could be one of this year’s most delightful surprises. – Katharine

inZoi

• Release date: 28th March 2025 (early access)
• Platforms: PC

As long as our PCs don’t overheat due to the requirements needed for its stunning visuals, inZoi seems like a strong contender to rival The Sims. With Life By You now canceled, and The Sims 4 entering its tenth year of service, it’s refreshing to finally have a substantial new life sim to engage with. – Jessica

Football Manager 2025

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• Release date: March 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, iOS/Android

FM25 has been rather surprisingly postponed from its usual November release slot to March 2025. This raises numerous inquiries – which season will player ratings reflect? What implications does this have for FM26? Will March become the new standard release period? However, many of these considerations may be irrelevant now. This is a significant undertaking by the developer Sports Interactive, shifting the game from a proprietary engine to Unity and completely revamping the user interface, altering years of muscle memory in the process. It’s a bold risk. Much like the game itself, the only certainty is enjoyment. – Chris

Demonschool

• Release date: Q1 2025
• Platforms: PC

A tactical RPG infused with a demonic, supernatural twist, this stylish tactical game has been high on my wishlist for quite a while. It carries a bit of the tone from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a touch of Banner Saga in its grid-based combat, and just a hint of Persona with its school schedule character development. This game revolves around a group of school friends venturing into bizarre and otherworldly realms to conquer, you guessed it, swarms of dangerous demon foes. Inject it into my veins, now. – Katharine

The Alters

• Release date: Q1 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Isolated on a strange planet, Jan creates clones of himself – adjusting their memories to form various versions of what his life might have been if he had taken different paths at various moments. Together, they must collaborate to survive impending catastrophe. This intriguing twist on a management simulation, balancing relationships among clones, makes me very eager to see how The Alters unfolds. – Jessica

While Waiting

• Release date: Q1 2025
• Platforms: PC

Is this a game focused on patience? Or rather, one that encourages you to engage in every possible fidgety activity to fill the time between events? Both paths lead to success in While Waiting, from the developer behind the perspective puzzle game Moncage, and its Next Fest demo was incredibly enjoyable. If it doesn’t revive your curiosity about the world, at least it may inspire you with new activities to try while waiting instead of subjecting yourself to another doomscroll. – Katharine

despelote

• Release date: Early 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One

Arguably the most Mundial Journal football game ever crafted, despelote (stylized without the capital D) is a first-person, semi-autobiographical slice-of-life experience centered on a football-enthusiastic child navigating the streets of Ecuador during the nation’s qualifiers for the 2002 World Cup. It appears joyous, personal, and profound, showcasing the continued globalization of genres and narratives in gaming. Its uniquely charming artistic style adds to its allure. – Chris

Dune: Awakening

• Release date: Early 2025 on PC (consoles to follow)
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series S/X

Funcom certainly understands MMOs – it’s easy to overlook that sometimes – and it’s well-versed in desert-themed survival games based on major licenses, with Conan being a prime example. This new Dune project offers more than just being a movie tie-in. However, such projects are massive endeavors that rely on widespread appeal to sustain their player base. Will it be successful? We shall see. – Bertie

Bioid

• Release date: 7th April 2025
• Platforms: PC

A monochrome adventure set in a chaotic cosmic library, Bioid has made its way onto my wishlist solely based on its visuals. The trailer is a captivating blend of stunning worlds and creatures, and the concept of traversing multiple dimensions while following the story of two small beings promises to deliver a truly memorable journey. – Katharine

Lethal Fury: City of the Wolves

• Release date: 21st April 2025
• Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC

The first new Lethal Fury game since 1999, Lethal Fury: City of the Wolves is a direct sequel to the iconic fighting game Garou: Mark of the Wolves, developed by SNK. The signature special moves system returns, now under the expanded format known as the SPG system, while beloved characters are joined by several newcomers. This is a significant moment for a franchise that has been in the shadows for some time.

“`of a renaissance. – Chris

Farthest Frontier

• Release date: Spring 2025
• Platforms: PC (1.0)

Farthest Frontier exhibits strong Manor Lords vibes. This is an intimate strategy game centered on survival in the American frontier, during an era when technology was primitive and life was challenging. There is a grounded, tangible charm that emerges as you gradually cultivate the picturesque wilderness surrounding you, truly experiencing the harsh winter or the warm summer sun that influences the environment. This game has been refined in early access for several years and has generated a lot of goodwill. I’m eagerly anticipating its return for version 1.0. – Bertie

Moth Kubit

• Release date: Spring 2025
• Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch

Described as an experimental RPG that depicts the corporate life of a common insect, Moth Kubit gives off vibes akin to Undertale meets Knuckle Sandwich. Its premise is inherently fascinating, as Moth’s unexpected job promotion brings news of the ominously named ‘Final Process’, rumored to change everything. Is it the end of the world? A nod to the Y2K bug? Whatever it is, I’m quite excited to uncover this quirky insect life adventure. – Katharine

Blue Prince

• Release date: Spring 2025
• Platforms: PC

A roguelike-puzzle game focused on house construction? Count me intrigued. In Blue Prince, your mission is to find the elusive Room 46 within the expansive mansion of Mt Holly. The catch is that the floor plan allows for only 45 rooms, meaning you must discover shortcuts and secret passages between the randomly generated spaces you’ll have to navigate along the way. However, since the floor plan resets at the end of each day, that task is easier said than done. – Katharine

Revenge of the Savage Planet

• Release date: May 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Essentially a third-person reboot of Journey to the Savage Planet, this quasi-sequel seems just as silly and vibrant as its predecessor—but with added co-op antics and jabs at Google, with whom the team had a nightmarish experience during its time under the Stadia brand. – Jessica

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

• Release date: First half of 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Déjà vu. I’ve covered this game in a previous article just like this. I can only imagine how vampires must feel going through the same events repeatedly throughout their lengthy existences. This game has been anticipated for quite a while. It was once put on hold due to mysterious circumstances and subsequently revived by Quietus developer The Chinese Room, where it is now nearing completion for release. However, the big question remains: will it justify the lengthy wait? Will it live up to the reputation of the franchise and the original Bloodlines game? Has it truly been saved, or merely hastily pieced together for launch? I remain endlessly curious. – Bertie

Mafia: The Old Country

• Release date: Summer 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

I appreciate a game with a straightforward title, and this—what seems to be a return-to-roots installment in the Mafia series—says it all. You are back in Sicily, the mob’s ancestral homeland, to uncover its origins and, of course, eliminate a few individuals your new crime family deems deserving of a proper “whacking.” – Tom P

Baby Steps

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5

A walking simulator isn’t for everyone, and often not for me, but Baby Steps still caught my attention. Players take on the role of onesie-clad “fail son” Nate, a grown man who spends his days lounging on his parents’ couch, consuming pizza, and binge-watching TV. That is, until he is pulled away from this lazy existence and thrust into a world without his beloved couch to support him. Now, Nate must learn to navigate this land full of mountains, obstacles, wildlife, muddy swamps, and more, one tiny step at a time. Oh, and it also features a “fully dynamic onesie dirt system,” so there’s that. I’m unsure how I truly feel about this particular feature right now, although it’s certainly unique. – Victoria

Big Walk

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

The latest creation from the team behind Untitled Goose Game, Big Walk is a game where you, and I quote, “hang…

out and become immersed with close companions in a vast world”. And presumably, take part in an extensive race. It appears to be irregular, delightful, and profoundly enigmatic, filled with numerous unusual landmarks to discover, as well as hidden corners to explore. A colossal adventure to engage in with your friends, in other words, and I am eager to uncover its mysteries and strategies later this year. – Katharine

Borderlands 4

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Following lackluster sales of the spin-off Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a mixed reception for New Tales from the Borderlands, and the widespread criticism of the Borderlands film, it’s finally time for Gearbox’s flagship series to showcase its strength, once and for all, with a brand new installment. Can the franchise regain its prime glory with a completely new world set on a fresh planet and an entirely new cast? This year, we’ll find out. – Tom P

Cattle Country

• Release Date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5

Truly a blend of Red Dead Redemption and Stardew Valley, Cattle Country may just be the perfect mix of adventure and action fused with cozy relaxation. Whether you’re taking on bandits in train heists or simply waking up daily to water your crops and ensure your livestock are thriving, you can choose how busy or easygoing your life is. – Marie

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5

Unveiled at Gamescom last year, this turn-based RPG features an amazing premise and an even more impressive combat system. The story revolves around the titular expedition undertaking a make-or-break mission to prevent a mysterious entity known as The Paintress from endangering the last remnants of humanity. Each year, she paints a cursed number on a monolith that annihilates everyone of that age. As you follow the path of the 32 expeditions that attempted this challenge before you, you’ll battle creatures of all shapes and sizes with its action-based combat, blending turn-based and real-time attacks for spectacular outcomes. It looks visually stunning, and I can’t wait to experience it in full. – Katharine

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PS5

I became completely captivated by Death Stranding when it finally arrived on PC, and even though the narrative is quite bizarre and unconventional, I am absolutely excited for whatever Kojima Productions has concocted for the next chapter in the life of post-apocalyptic delivery man Sam Bridges. We don’t know much about it yet, but whatever it turns out to be, you can assuredly count on it to be anything but dull. – Katharine

Stalemate

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC

Stalemate – Valve’s hero shooter that managed to attract thousands of gamers to join in the action, despite not officially being released at that time – still hasn’t locked in a definitive launch date, but perhaps this year could finally be the year? I rather enjoyed what I experienced of Stalemate, even in its early stages. For those unacquainted, Valve’s shooter also incorporates MOBA and tower defense-inspired elements, and at times it can become a bit chaotic (though maybe that was more due to my lack of experience and just throwing myself from building to building in a bid to survive). Nevertheless, even though this type of game isn’t exactly my area of expertise, I would happily give Stalemate another try when it finally gets its proper release. Like I said, I genuinely enjoyed it. So, just tell me when, Valve. Just tell me when. – Victoria

Doom: The Dark Ages

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, PC, PS5

Possibly the game I am most excited about in 2025, I have a soft spot for a bit of Doom. I was curious about where identity Machine’s beloved Doom series might venture following the fantastically impressive Eternal, but rewinding time and providing the Doom Slayer a serrated boomerang shield, a weapon that grinds skulls for ammunition, and a grand bear-skin cloak? Count me in. – Katharine

Dispatch

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

Fresh off its announcement at The Game Awards, Dispatch places us on the other side of the superhero crime-fighting mechanism, working as an emergency dispatch operator tasked with sending out various heroes to address different crimes around the city. At present, it remains uncertain how much strategy will be involved – I wouldn’t anticipate anything reminiscent of XCOM, for example – but considering this is being developed by some former Telltale staff who worked on The Wolf Among Us and Tales from the Borderlands, you can definitely expect plenty of significant choices that will affect the fate of your unconventional superhero team. – Katharine

Earthblade

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• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

The upcoming title from the Celeste creators might seem like just another pixel platformer to dive into, but Earthblade is far more ambitious than that. Instead of scaling a single mountain this time, Extremely OK Video games has crafted a vast, interconnected world for us to navigate, and it appears utterly stunning. We don’t have much more information at this point, but I can’t wait to see how its blend of combat, exploration, and platforming challenges comes together in the final version. – Katharine

Elden Ring: Nightreign

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Now, if any other developer rolled out a cooperative spin-off featuring procedurally generated variations of the current game’s universe along with battle royale elements, we would have all screamed that it was a cash grab. However, given that this is the next major project from the experts at FromSoftware, whether or not it’s a cash grab, it’s bound to be extraordinary. Plus, you can definitely enjoy it solo, don’t worry. – Tom P

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Supporters of the now-defunct real-time strategy developers Mimimi Games (RIP) may want to keep a close watch on Eriksholm, a top-down stealth adventure that might just satisfy similar cravings. The titular setting is a sprawling Scandinavian city in an alternate 1900s, where its citizens live under the oppression of a police state. And if that’s not bad enough, the authorities have imprisoned your brother. Featuring stunning environment design and possibly the best motion capture since Baldur’s Gate 3, Eriksholm looks polished, intense, and incredibly intriguing. – Jim

Fable

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

Microsoft’s quintessentially British action RPG series gets a rejuvenation for the current generation, featuring numerous UK comedians and the usual dose of poultry-related antics. Expect the traditional blend of fantasy, magic, and morality-driven choices, now with Great Hans from Peep Show as your guide. – Tom P

Foolish Mortals

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC

A point-and-click adventure inspired by titles like Monkey Island and Broken Sword, Foolish Mortals places players in the shoes of a young treasure hunter named Murphy McCallan as he embarks on a “cheerful” yet “macabre” journey. Promising an exotic setting, quirky characters, and voodoo, this game surely has Victoria Kennedy’s flair all over it. – Victoria

Ghost of Yotei

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PS5

If you enjoy shouting phwoar while swinging your katana and galloping through fields of swaying grass and grain like an incredibly enthusiastic Theresa May, then this is the game for you. Sucker Punch’s sequel to Ghost of Tsushima shows immense promise – my personal impression of the original was, “This is enjoyable; a sequel could be absolutely brilliant.” Expect vibrant colors, blood effects, a slightly admiring take on all things Japanese, and a bold, dynamic approach to melee combat. The Kurosawa references with the first may have been a tad excessive, but I doubt Yotei will fail to deliver an absolute blast. – Chris

Grand Theft Auto 6

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S

What can be said? Rockstar hasn’t released a major new Grand Theft Auto title since GTA 5 debuted in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. GTA 6 is arguably the most highly-anticipated game of the decade, and all others will likely pale in comparison. Let’s hope its 2025 release window holds firm. – Tom P

Horses

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: TBC

Horses is the next game from Santa Ragione, the studio behind the unique Mediterranea Inferno, Saturnalia, MirrorMoon EP, and others. We experienced its demo at GDC 2024 and found it to be magnetically bizarre, yet rather nerve-racking: you will need to meet this game halfway to extract any real sense from its eerie, enigmatic, and somewhat oppressively dark atmosphere. The single setting was initially scheduled for 2024 but never quite made it, with no public announcement explaining why – or when we might eventually expect it. Hopefully, the answer will come sometime this year. There are few, if any, developers out there making games quite like this. – Chris

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• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

I really enjoyed Okomotive’s pair of FAR titles, and while Herdling isn’t about navigating a massive boat-like vessel across a vast and barren terrain, it still provides a sense of embarking on a grand journey. This time, however, you’ll have numerous charming fluffy friends accompanying you on the adventure. In this mountainous quest, you’ll travel with your creatures up to the peak of a hidden and uncharted summit, and I am eager to see what kind of dizzying challenges we will face to achieve our goal. – Katharine

Judas

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

This is the highly anticipated title from Ken Levine’s new studio, Ghost Story Games. Set aboard a deteriorating starship carrying the last remnants of humanity to a new home among the stars, Judas revolves around shooting and magical punches to find an escape before you and all the other remaining survivors become actual space debris. Indeed, it sounds quite reminiscent of Bioshock in space. Or, shall we say, classic System Shock 2, albeit with deeper philosophical themes about robots and the future of human consciousness against a backdrop of a deadly virus. Regardless, I remain quietly optimistic about this, and I can’t wait to discover what it’s truly about. – Katharine

Little Nightmares 3

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

If you enjoyed the previous two Little Nightmares games, along with their tiny gothic, slightly Guillermo del Toro-esque horror elements, then you’re likely already looking forward to this third installment, whose long-awaited launch was delayed last year until 2025. The exciting news this time around is the change of developer behind the scenes—it’s being crafted by Supermassive Games, known for their work on the Dark Pictures Anthology. However, after a few preview sessions with the game, I can hardly claim to notice the difference, which is indeed a good sign. – Tom P

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

If there’s one thing that could potentially dispel my lasting fatigue with Marvel, it’s a Marvel game developed by Amy Hennig. We still know precious little about what Rise of Hydra will encompass aside from an uneasy and curmudgeonly alliance between Captain America and Black Panther as they attempt to take down Marvel’s principal villainous organization in Occupied Paris. Nonetheless, it genuinely appears to be the makings of a grand blockbuster, and it might even be much more enjoyable to play than sitting through this year’s barrage of Marvel films and TV series. – Katharine

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Snake Eater was caught in such development limbo last year that it completely missed its original 2024 launch window. However, here’s hoping Konami’s revamped remake of 2004’s groundbreaking Metal Gear Solid 3 finally comes out of its camouflage sometime this year. After the somewhat disappointing Master Collection release in 2023, this should hopefully be the best way to experience the origin story of Naked Snake and The Boss on modern platforms. – Katharine

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch

I can hardly believe we are finally in the year when Metroid Prime 4 is set to release. After a lengthy period of anticipation, a complete game reboot, and years of silence, Nintendo will finally allow us to delve into a brand new first-person Metroid adventure crafted by the team behind the recent trilogy, Retro Studios. Oh, and it also looks spectacular! This could definitely serve as an impressive launch title for the anticipated Switch 2… – Tom P

Miss Mulligatawney’s Academy for Promising Young Ladies

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC

Inkle’s latest project might have a title that I will undoubtedly mix up a few times, but despite the studio revealing almost nothing about it so far (even the screenshots don’t give away much!), you just know it’s going to be a fantastic adventure nonetheless. I’ll be submitting my application forthwith. – Katharine

Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

The original Moonlighter was a delightful gem of a game, blending Zelda-like dungeon crawling with clever shopkeeping mechanics.
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Now, the creators at Digital Solar are revisiting their earlier work once more, presenting us with an astonishing new 3D isometric universe to traverse, along with even more enticing loot for us to snatch in its namesake vault. While the engaging gameplay mechanics are likely to remain consistent, the realm of Tresna seems to be a stunning backdrop to relive the adventure all over again. – Katharine

Nirvana Noir

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

A follow-up to the intriguing jazz adventure that was Genesis Noir, Nirvana Noir introduces one significant change: a bright splash of color. This is a mystery about the Big Bang, unfolding in two different realities—one where it never occurred. Expect environmental puzzles, retro noir aesthetics (trenchcoat, anyone?), and some of the most beautiful and expressive visual designs seen in video games. – Chris

Nivalis

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

The most significant post-release update to 2020’s Cloudpunk, the acclaimed hovercar simulation where players took on the role of a delivery driver in a sprawling voxel metropolis, was the introduction of a first-person perspective. Being able to explore the rain-soaked streets of Nivalis in a walking sim style added an immersive layer to the experience, enhancing the overall gameplay. In this semi-sequel, developer Ion Lands is doubling down on this aspect by presenting us with a life simulation focused on, well, living. If they succeed, it could rival Night City. – Jim

Opus: Prism High

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

Sigono’s Opus series might just be one of gaming’s best-kept secrets. An anthology of standalone yet loosely connected sci-fi narratives, all sharing a common theme of hope and positivity for the future, these heartfelt adventures have been nothing short of stellar. Be sure to check out Opus: Echo of Starsong to discover more—it was one of my top picks in 2021! The studio’s latest, Prism High, casts you as a photographer lost in a strange, dreamlike world where your photographs are key to uncovering its secrets. If you appreciated the laid-back explorations in Season: A Letter to the Future, there’s a strong chance this will also resonate with you. – Katharine

Paralives

• Release date: 2025 (early access)
• Platforms: PC

Five years after the stunning unveiling of Paralives that had The Sims fans excited, this promising social simulation is finally gearing up for an early access launch later this year. On a fundamental level, Paralives checks the same boxes as EA’s powerhouse franchise, but it’s also aiming to carve out its own unique identity within the familiar features. Developer Paralives Studio has already showcased everything from extensive customization options to dynamic character traits and diverse relationship types, with a robust array of “core” features promised for its early access launch. Even more exciting, a detailed development roadmap is already hinting at a bright (and thankfully DLC-free) future. – Matt

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch

As a fan of Pokémon, I often find myself admitting that even when Game Freak attempts to innovate, the studio remains tied to the traditional formula of ‘Eight Gym Leaders, Evil Team, and Pokémon League.’ This is why I instantly fell in love with Pokémon Legends: Arceus—it preserved everything I loved about the franchise while also revolutionizing it in an exciting way. (Not to mention, the storyline involving being sent back in time by Arceus, the Pokémon god, was incredibly thrilling.) So, I am eagerly anticipating what Pokémon Legends: Z-A will unveil for us, despite its unfortunate title. Set exclusively within Lumiose City, Legends: Z-A revisits the Kalos region, and I am excited to see how the gameplay introduced in Legends: Arceus has been expanded upon. Hopefully, there will also be some great time-traveling or dimension-jumping elements involved. – Lottie

Promise Mascot Agency

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

The upcoming game from the creators of Paradise Killer, Promise Mascot Agency revolves around a disgraced yakuza lieutenant striving to revive the fortunes of a failing mascot agency. However, these are not the adorable and cuddly Japanese mascots you might be familiar with; instead, they feature severed fingers, wretched tofu blocks, ferocious wage-man cats, and melodious birds that will express their disdain if interrupted. It appears utterly insane, but I admire its zany spirit and its intriguing blend of business management with open-world storytelling. – Katharine

Ratatan

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

Ratatan is the new (and equally alliterative) rhythm-action game…

game from the creators of the beloved PSP title Patapon. In many ways, it might be regarded as a spiritual successor to that game (you’ll still be directing armies of tiny beings to battle increasingly formidable boss foes, after all), but it also emphasizes online cooperative gameplay and boasts a robust roguelike aspect, which should hopefully make it feel fresh and exhilarating for long-time fans. It achieved tremendous success on Kickstarter to support its development and is now set to be released later this year. – Katharine

Replaced

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

I have been eagerly anticipating this stunning action platformer ever since its thrilling trailer launched at Microsoft’s E3 presentation in 2021. Mainly due to its beautiful visuals, which feature some of the most captivating pixel art I’ve ever encountered. However, I’m also intrigued by its storyline, where you embody an AI trapped within a human form who must… well, it’s not entirely clear yet. There will likely be puzzles to solve, rogue factions to assist/disband (perhaps), but I’m excited to learn more about it. – Katharine

Slay the Spire 2

• Release date: 2025 (early access)
• Platforms: PC

I was thrilled to learn of a sequel to Slay the Spire. Though it may be small in scale, this game is a titan. It revolutionized the deck-building roguelike genre. A sequel is a significant event. But how can one surpass such a concept? The solution appears to be that you don’t – you build upon it. You enhance the nostalgically rough graphics a little, introduce new character classes, and make slight adjustments without compromising the core experience. I’m both anxious that it might not succeed and excited over the possibility that it could. Either way, I cannot wait. – Bertie

South of Midnight

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

This third-person action-adventure title comes from We Happy Few developer Compulsion Games, and visually it looks utterly stunning. South of Midnight is set in an alternate version of the American Deep South, with players assuming the role of Weaver Hazel. It features magic-infused combat, a delightful art style, and an array of vibrant characters, including the Blues singer Shakin’ Bones. I can’t wait to see more. – Victoria

Stage Fright

• Release date: TBC
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Among the two split-screen cooperative adventures revealed at The Game Awards in December, Stage Fright truly captured my imagination. Created by the Overcooked team, this looks absolutely delightful (with some impressive voice work in its trailer as well). From what I can gather, you and a partner will be navigating various dimensions to solve puzzles and find a way home – and hopefully avoid throwing knives and onions at each other in the process. Really excited for this one. – Katharine

Star Birds

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC

I dove deep into a massive Dorfromantik rabbit hole in 2022, and Star Birds is Toukana Interactive’s next charming puzzle game. Part city-building, part resource management, you’ll be colonizing various colorful planets and asteroids in Star Birds, assisting your feathered friends in creating a cheerful little life among the stars. It’s also being developed alongside the German science channel/animation studio Kurzgesagt – In A Nutshell, enhancing its captivating visuals with a bit more technical nuance. – Katharine

Subnautica 2

• Release date: 2025 (early access)
• Platforms: PC

Subnautica is a game that is both beautiful and terrifying in equal measures – your desire to discover new and strange wonders in its aquatic depths draws you deeper beneath the waves, but the lurking dangers are ever-present – was that a claw? A tentacle? A large, haunting eyeball with frightening teeth? – and nope, get me out of here right now. However, like a sea snail entranced by the stunning glow of an anglerfish, I cannot help but feel compelled to do it all over again in Subnautica 2, especially since I can now invite a friend along for the adventure as well. – Katharine

Tanuki: Pon’s Summer

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S

This upcoming title from the developer of Cursed to Golf, Tanuki: Pon’s Summer, poses the question, “What if your tanuki postman in a quaint Japanese village was also a biking Tony Hawk?” It’s a rather whimsical blend, but one that absolutely shines when you see it in action. For sure I am eager to play this game. How could I resist? Especially when there’s a festival to prepare for at the same time, where you’ll be spending your hard-earned wages fixing a shrine for this special event.Certain appreciation and gratitude to all the contributors on this topic. – Katharine

The Mermaid’s Secret

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One

Officially titled The Mermaid’s Tongue, SFB Games’ latest Detective Grimoire installment is essential for anyone who relished the vibrant Tangle Tower of 2019. This time, you will be investigating the homicide of Captain Magnus aboard a mysterious submarine, who has been discovered inside a locked chamber with an ancient stone cauldron that has never been accessed – until now. The crew claims there’s a malevolent (nightmarish) curse at play here, but the truth might be far, far stranger. – Katharine

The Outer Worlds 2

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

Sequels like this consistently exhilarate me because they provide the opportunity to refine a vision that may not have been perfectly captured the first time. The Outer Worlds encapsulates everything: it delivered a witty, satirical, Fallout-esque approach to the genre, and we had a blast with it. It was excellent. Now, with a solid foundation in place and an abundance of fan feedback to sift through, there’s a chance to expand upon it and refine the formula. The inaugural trailer appeared incredibly promising. I hold high expectations for this. – Bertie

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers

• Release date: 2025
• Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S

I know for certain that I’m likely to be terrible at playing Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, but hot damn, does its stylish and dynamic combat not look intensely engaging nonetheless? Competing with Final Fantasy 16 in terms of visual appeal, this Soulslike action RPG will transport us to Ming Dynasty China as the titular pirate endeavors to cleanse the land of Shu of a deadly plague. Will I survive beyond the first challenging boss? Uncertain. However, I am absolutely excited to give it a try. – Katharine

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Phew! That’s a wrap for our 80 most anticipated games of 2025 – or at least those we are aware of thus far, for sure. As the year progresses, there will undoubtedly be countless more games unveiled that we cannot even imagine at this point in the year, not to mention many more in early access that may or may not receive surprise 1.0 launches this year. Games like Hades 2, Manor Lords, and Path of Exile 2, to name just a few, have us eager to see how they all develop in the upcoming months. Clearly, it’s going to be an exciting year!

And if we’ve overlooked anything you are personally thrilled about for 2025, please make sure to share!