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Game On! The Most Exciting Games Coming In 2025.

2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for gamers, offering an incredible lineup of immersive worlds, captivating stories, and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics. From history-infused narratives to futuristic thrillers and mystical fantasies, this year’s releases are set to redefine how we play. 

With so many games coming out this year, we’ve narrowed it down to ones that you should be keeping a close eye on. Here’s a deeper dive into the most anticipated titles.

Confirmed Release Dates

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (4 February 2025)

Prepare to lose yourself once again in the realism of 15th-century Bohemia! Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 ups the ante with a larger map, refined combat, and a branching narrative that responds to your every decision. You’ll find yourself juggling politics, war, and survival – all while navigating the game’s unrelentingly authentic medieval world.

The sequel goes deep into character-driven storytelling, with side quests that intertwine seamlessly with the main plot. Whether you’re forging alliances, engaging in brutal skirmishes, or simply trying to survive another day, every action in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 feels consequential. It’s a game where history buffs and RPG fans alike will feel right at home.

Civilization VII (11 February 2025)

The grandfather of 4X strategy games is back, bigger and better than ever. Civilization VII aims to elevate empire-building to new heights, introducing mechanics that promise to make your conquests feel as fresh as a newly discovered continent.

A notable innovation in Civilization VII is the ability to mix and match leaders with different civilizations, allowing for unprecedented combinations and strategic depth. Imagine Julius Caesar leading the Mongol hordes or Cleopatra commanding Viking longships – the possibilities are as vast as they are intriguing!

Set for a simultaneous multi-platform release – a first in the series’ history – players can look forward to navigating the complexities of diplomacy, warfare, and cultural development across various devices. With enhanced AI, dynamic world events, and a tech tree that branches into uncharted territories, Civilization VII is poised to be both an endless time sink and one of the greatest 4X experiences ever!

Avowed (13 February 2025)

From the studio that brought you Fallout: New Vegas, Obsidian Entertainment invites you to the fantasy world of Eora with Avowed, an open-world RPG that promises to let you swing swords and sling spells with reckless abandon. Set in the same universe as their fan-favourite series, Pillars of Eternity, this first-person adventure aims to immerse players in a land rife with magic, mystery, and moral quandaries.

While specific details remain under wraps tighter than a mummy’s secrets, the game is expected to feature deep character customisation, a rich narrative, and the kind of world-building that would make a mason weep with joy. With a 2025 release on the horizon, Avowed is shaping up to be a must-play for those seeking a new realm to explore – preferably with a trusty sword and a well-practised spell at the ready.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (20 March 2025)

The Assassin’s Creed series finally goes to a locale that fans have been asking for. Assassin’s Creed Shadows thrusts gamers into a thrilling journey featuring the Sengoku period of medieval Japan, following the story of the Assassin Order and the Knight’s Templar once more. Players take on dual roles: Yasuke, the legendary African samurai whose loyalty is tested by honour and betrayal, and Naoye, a cunning shinobi navigating the shadowy underworld of feudal Japan.

The game builds on the tight stealth mechanics and parkour elements introduced in Assassin’s Creed Mirage but adds new innovations like cooperative missions and an evolving open world. With stunning visuals capturing the beauty and brutality of war-torn Japan, Shadows promises an unforgettable adventure that can keep up with the best its franchise has had to offer in the past.

Monster Hunter Wilds (28 February 2025)

Upcoming 2025 Games: Monster Hunter Wilds
It was really exciting getting a sneak peek!

Capcom raises the stakes with Monster Hunter Wilds, a game that expands the series’ trademark hunting mechanics into vast, untamed environments. This time, players must contend with dynamic ecosystems where monsters aren’t just prey – they’re predators adapting to their surroundings!

New survival mechanics add layers of strategy, forcing players to consider weather, terrain, and even interspecies conflicts when planning their hunts. Whether you’re crafting gear from defeated beasts or forming alliances to tackle colossal foes, Wilds offers a fresh take on the beloved franchise that will keep hunters coming back for more. For more on this exciting sequel in the Monster Hunter series, you can check out our article on gamescom asia 2024, where the game was played live by the game’s producer, Ryozo Tsujimoto!

Split Fiction (6 March 2025)

Split Fiction is what happens when dragons and cyber ninjas crash a co-op game night. From the creators of It Takes Two, this wild action-adventure traps two writers – Mio, a sci-fi junkie, and Zoe, a fantasy fanatic – inside their own stories after a machine hijacks their creative ideas. Their only way out? Work together, survive the madness, and keep their memories intact.

One minute you’re taming dragons, the next you’re navigating a cyberpunk dystopia set in the future – It’s part dragon-slaying, part galaxy-hopping! But beneath the chaos is a tale of friendship and teamwork that’ll have you arguing with your co-op partner one second and hyping them up the next.

InZOI (28 March 2025)

This spiritual successor to the wildly popular Sims franchise has taken the life-simulation formula that made its predecessor so successful and dialled it up to 11 in every feasible way. Built on Epic Games’ groundbreaking Unreal Engine 5, InZOI takes full advantage of the engine’s revolutionary capabilities in rendering graphics to a hyperrealistic degree while maintaining performance to create a world that feels truly alive.

Every choice, from your character’s fashion sense to the architectural quirks of your abode, shapes your digital identity. Want to live in a neon-drenched skyscraper overlooking a digital metropolis? Go for it. Prefer a secluded mountain cabin with a holographic fireplace? The world is your oyster in InZOI! But be warned: InZOI isn’t about finding the “perfect” life. It’s about embracing the messy, unpredictable beauty of existence, even if it means occasionally tripping over your own feet. 

With InZOI’s AI-based emergent scenario gameplay, where the entire community, down to the youngest child is fully simulated, there’s no telling what will happen from playthrough to playthrough!

Slated for 2025

Grand Theft Auto VI

When Rockstar speaks, the gaming world listens, and for good reason. Grand Theft Auto VI is without a doubt the most anticipated title of the decade, as fans have been waiting nearly a decade since GTA V’s release. While Rockstar has kept their cards close to their chest, the confirmed return to Vice City, alongside a new sprawling map that reportedly includes surrounding rural areas, has fans speculating about the scale of this next chapter.

The information we have points to a story of dual protagonists – whose intertwined stories navigate crime, betrayal, and family ties. Rockstar’s proprietary RAGE Engine is set to deliver unparalleled realism, with advanced weather systems, NPC AI, and dynamic heist mechanics that evolve based on your decisions. 

Prepare yourself for an ambitious open world that promises to redefine sandbox gaming, and hopefully live up to the industry-changing legacy of its forebears!

Doom: The Dark Ages

Prepare for Hell to be raised as Doom comes to the medieval era in Doom: The Dark Ages. This bold reimagining of the classic franchise trades chainsaws for crossbows and plasma rifles for enchanted swords. 

Set in a gothic world overrun by demonic forces, players will face relentless battles in an atmosphere dripping with dread, and shred their way through the demonic hordes with a whole new arsenal of weapons.

The game introduces brutal melee combat and magic to the classic Doom formula while retaining the series’ trademark speed and intensity. With a haunting soundtrack and visceral visuals, Doom: The Dark Ages is a gorey and exhilarating ride through time.

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach

Gaming industry legend Hideo Kojima returns with Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, inviting players back into his enigmatic world where the line between life and death is as blurry as a low-res texture. This sequel promises to deepen the narrative labyrinth, with Norman Reedus reprising his role as Sam Porter Bridges, possibly delivering more than just packages this time.

Kojima Productions has confirmed a 2025 release window, though the exact date remains shrouded in mystery. Kojima himself has hinted at the game’s demanding development process, and hopefully, all the hard work will have paid off! Anticipate a blend of the familiar and the unexpected, with gameplay mechanics that challenge conventional gaming norms. 

Elden Ring: Nightreign

After redefining the open-world RPG game with Elden Ring, FromSoftware is venturing into uncharted territory with Elden Ring: Nightreign. This standalone entry provides a co-op survival experience set in an alternate version of the Lands Between. Players will take on the role of Nightfarers, tasked with enduring a single day’s harrowing journey through ever-changing environments culminating in a massive boss fight.

What’s particularly thrilling is the combat overhaul. Expect a martial arts-inspired system emphasising speed, aggression, and tactical counters. The shrinking map mechanic, which forces teams closer together as they progress, adds a layer of tension reminiscent of battle royale games. Whether you’re a die-hard Elden Ring fan or just looking for an intense cooperative experience, Nightreign promises both challenge and innovation.

Dune: Awakening 

Building on the hype generated by the release of the immensely successful Dune movies, Dune: Awakening has you enter the treacherous world of Arrakis, an MMO that merges survival gameplay with political intrigue. Players can harvest spice, forge alliances, and navigate the harsh desert landscape while vying for control of this coveted resource. 

The game’s player-driven economy and faction dynamics promise endless replayability. With its sprawling environments and deep lore, Dune: Awakening invites fans of Frank Herbert’s universe to immerse themselves fully in the spice wars. Whether you rise to power or perish in the sands is entirely up to you. And last of all? May thy knife chip and shatter.

The Outer Worlds 2

The second Obsidian Entertainment entry on our list, we return to the satirical sci-fi frontier with The Outer Worlds 2, the sequel to the acclaimed 2019 RPG. Set in a brand-new star system, the game promises to expand upon the original’s foundation, offering a larger, more diverse universe teeming with eccentric characters, corporate intrigue, and moral dilemmas. Players will once again navigate a branching narrative where choices have significant consequences, shaping the world and story in meaningful ways.

The sequel is expected to introduce enhanced combat mechanics, deeper character customisation, and a host of new companions—each with their own unique stories and abilities. With its sharp wit and critique of corporate dystopias, The Outer Worlds 2 aims to deliver a thought-provoking yet entertaining experience that challenges players’ perceptions and decision-making.

Ghost of Yōtei

Set 300 years after Ghost of Tsushima and the exploits of Jin Sakai, Ghost of Yōtei introduces Atsu, a new protagonist on a path of vengeance in the untamed wilderness of Ezo (modern-day Hokkaido). Centered around Mount Yōtei, a lawless land where “people come to disappear,” the game tells a darker, more personal story of survival and redemption during the early Edo period.

Sucker Punch expands on the stealth action formula of its predecessor with new gameplay mechanics and tools. Atsu can dual-wield katanas, use matchlock guns, and the game also teases the wielding of the kusarigama, a sickle-and-chain weapon that adds strategic depth to combat. The open world is more dynamic and focused on immersive storytelling, offering player-driven choices that shape Atsu’s journey. Gone are repetitive activities, replaced by a narrative-rich world full of mystery and danger.

Built exclusively for the PS5, Ghost of Yōtei features enhanced visuals, dynamic weather, and realistic environmental interactions, like wind rippling through grass and affecting vegetation. With its breathtaking setting, refined mechanics, and gripping tale of vengeance, Ghost of Yōtei promises to be a bold evolution of the samurai epic fans fell in love with.

Subnautica 2

Who needs jumpscares? Prepare to dive deeper and darker than ever before with Subnautica 2, the long-awaited sequel to the iconic underwater survival horror game. While the original set the bar high with its breathtaking ocean worlds and intense survival mechanics, Subnautica 2 promises to take the adventure to new depths – literally. 

Building on its predecessor, the sequel introduces enhanced base-building mechanics, expanded crafting systems, and more terrifying leviathans lurking in the shadows. What’s more, the developers have promised that co-op will be coming, so you can finally brave your deep sea adventures with your friends! Whether you’re braving pitch-black trenches or marvelling at glowing coral forests, Subnautica 2 has an atmosphere as beautiful as it is terrifying.

Crimson Desert

Indie studio Pearl Abyss is set to deliver an ambitious open-world action adventure with Crimson Desert, a game that blends narrative depth with expansive exploration. Originally conceived as a prequel to Black Desert Online, the project has evolved into a standalone title that chronicles the struggles of mercenaries in a war-torn realm. Players will assume the role of Kliff, a battle-hardened leader grappling with internal conflicts and external threats in a land rife with political turmoil.

The game boasts a dynamic weather system, realistic character interactions, and a combat system that requires quick tactical decision-making and skilful execution. With its richly detailed world and immersive storytelling, Crimson Desert seeks to offer a compelling experience that captivates players and immerses them in its gritty, medieval setting.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

Konami is set to breathe new life into a classic with Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, a faithful remake of the 2004 masterpiece. The game revisits the origins of the legendary Big Boss, taking players through a gripping Cold War-era narrative filled with espionage, survival, and complex character dynamics. Utilising modern technology, the remake aims to enhance the original experience with updated graphics, refined gameplay mechanics, and immersive audio design.

While preserving the core storyline that fans have come to cherish, Delta introduces quality-of-life improvements and potential new content that deepens the narrative and enriches the overall experience. For both veterans of the series and newcomers, this remake offers an opportunity to experience a pivotal chapter in gaming history, reimagined for a new generation.

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra

Ever wondered what would happen if Captain America and the Black Panther of the 1940s teamed up to take on Hydra? Wonder no more. Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra transports players to the tumultuous era of World War II, where a pair of iconic Marvel heroes unite against a common enemy. With acclaimed writer and director Amy Hennig working on it, this action-packed adventure combines historical settings with the rich tapestry of Marvel’s superhero lore, bringing a fresh perspective on classic characters.

Players can expect a narrative-driven experience, with gameplay that leans on strategic combat and cooperative mechanics. The alliance between Captain America and Azzuri, the Black Panther of the 1940s, forms the crux of the story, challenging players to navigate the story with their differing ideologies and gameplay with their combat styles.

With meticulously designed environments and a storyline that pays homage to Marvel’s rich history, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra is set to be a standout title for fans and newcomers alike.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Nintendo’s enigmatic bounty hunter, Samus Aran, makes a triumphant return in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. This latest instalment in the acclaimed series promises to expand upon the atmospheric exploration and intricate world-building that fans have come to adore. Set against the backdrop of uncharted galaxies, players will guide Samus through a labyrinth of alien terrains, uncovering secrets and confronting formidable adversaries.

The game is expected to introduce innovative gameplay mechanics, potentially leveraging the capabilities of Nintendo’s latest hardware. While specific details remain under wraps, anticipation is high for enhancements in combat dynamics, puzzle-solving elements, and immersive storytelling. As with previous entries, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond aims to seamlessly blend action and exploration, offering a richly textured experience that challenges and rewards players in equal measure.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

After a series of development hurdles, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is poised to immerse players in the dark and intricate world of vampire politics. Set in a meticulously recreated version of Seattle, the game delves into the clandestine society of vampires, where players must navigate complex social dynamics and make choices that reverberate throughout the narrative.

The game teases a rich role-playing experience, with deep character customisation and a branching storyline that responds to player decisions. Moral ambiguity is at the forefront, challenging players to balance their humanity against the seductive allure of vampiric power. With its focus on narrative depth and atmospheric world-building, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 seeks to captivate both fans of the original and newcomers to the series.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 emerges as a unique entry in this year’s lineup, offering a turn-based RPG experience inspired by classics like Final Fantasy and Persona. Set in a surrealist 1930s-inspired future, the game invites players to embark on an expedition filled with enigmatic characters and intricate narratives.

The game’s art style is a visual feast, blending dreamlike aesthetics with period-inspired designs. Gameplay mechanics emphasise strategic decision-making and alertness, with a combat system that rewards thoughtful planning and quick fingers for timing-based actions. As players delve deeper into the mysteries of Clair Obscur, they will encounter a world that challenges perceptions and invites exploration beyond the ordinary.

Fable 

The whimsical world of Albion is set to enchant players once more in the new Fable. Now helmed by Playground Games, this latest instalment seeks to rejuvenate the beloved franchise, blending its signature humour and moral choice system with the technological advancements of modern gaming.

Players can anticipate a richly detailed open world, teeming with dynamic characters, quests, and the ever-present consequences of their choices. The game’s narrative is expected to be both personal and expansive, allowing players to forge their own path as heroes, villains, or anything in between. With its commitment to player agency and a world that reacts to every decision, Fable aims to give fans an immersive experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

Games We Hope Will Come in 2025!

State of Decay 3

The State of Decay series has long been the go-to for those who fancy their survival horror with a side of community management. State of Decay 3 is poised to elevate this experience, introducing a more dynamic open world teeming with new threats and opportunities. Expect enhanced AI behaviours, a richer ecosystem, and perhaps even a few surprises that could make you rethink your zombie apocalypse survival plan.

Undead Labs has been tight-lipped about specific features, but the media buzz suggests a deeper focus on player-driven narratives and expanded multiplayer options. Whether you’re a lone wolf or prefer to band together with friends, State of Decay 3 aims to test your strategic acumen and survival instincts in a world where every decision counts.

Gears of War: E-Day

Brace yourselves, COG soldiers! Gears of War: E-Day is set to thrust players into the harrowing events of Emergence Day, the cataclysmic moment when the Locust Horde first erupted onto the surface of Sera. This prequel promises to blend the franchise’s signature cover-based shooting mechanics with a narrative that delves deeper into the origins of the conflict.

Developed by The Coalition, E-Day promises a gripping single-player campaign and robust multiplayer modes. With enhanced graphics and refined gameplay mechanics, Gears of War: E-Day seeks to honour the series’ legacy while introducing fresh elements to keep veterans and newcomers alike on the edge of their seats.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is Naughty Dog’s highly-anticipated ambitious leap into science fiction, blending their renowned storytelling with science fiction futuristic flair. Set on the isolated planet Sempiria, players follow Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter marooned in hostile territory, as she navigates survival, faith, and a tangled criminal underworld. 

The game’s atmosphere is heightened by a soundtrack from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and its aesthetic fuses retro-futuristic design with modern storytelling. With a Porsche spaceship and nostalgic touches like an old-school CD player, the game promises a unique mix of sci-fi grandeur and intimate storytelling. 

Hollow Knight: Silksong 

Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight: Silksong has been on the radar of Metroidvania aficionados for some time, and we hope that 2025 is the year it finally graces our screens. This sequel shifts the spotlight to Hornet, offering a fresh perspective and a host of new abilities to master as you navigate a kingdom haunted by silk and song.

With its hand-drawn art, challenging combat, and intricate world design, Silksong promises to build upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing innovative mechanics that enhance the platforming experience. Prepare to delve into a world brimming with secrets, adversaries, and the kind of rich lore that made the original a standout title.

Judas

From the creative mind of Ken Levine, the visionary who spawned the hit BioShock games, comes Judas, a narrative-driven first-person shooter that explores themes of betrayal and redemption! Set in a fragmented world teetering on the brink, players must forge uneasy alliances to survive, with every choice influencing the unfolding narrative.

Ghost Story Games has said that Judas will have a high degree of player agency, with a storyline that adapts to your decisions in meaningful ways. While details remain closely guarded, the promise of a richly immersive experience that challenges players’ moral compasses makes Judas one of the most intriguing titles slated for release this year.

Marathon

Bungie’s return to its roots with Marathon is one of the most intriguing comebacks in gaming history. Originally launched in 1994, the Marathon franchise was lauded for its intricate storytelling and groundbreaking mechanics. Now, Bungie is reimagining it for a modern audience, after decades of experience with titles like HALO and Destiny. 

Details remain scarce for now but expect a fusion of the studio’s FPS expertise (honed through years of Destiny development) with the philosophical underpinnings that made Marathon a cult classic. Early trailer footage hints at a vibrant cyberpunk aesthetic, vast environments, and a story that dives deep into some pretty far-out worlds and stories. For fans of narrative-driven shooters, this could be a game-changer!

Gaming in 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, the gaming world is packed with titles that promise to redefine how we play, explore, and engage with virtual worlds. Whether you’re gearing up for a deep dive into post-apocalyptic survival, battling ancient enemies, or navigating the moral grey areas of new narratives, there’s something for every gamer on the horizon. For more on the biggest announcements of the year, make sure to check out our article on The Game Awards 2024!

The anticipation for these releases is high, and with each game pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and player agency, it’s clear that 2025 will be a landmark year for the industry. So, tighten your seatbelt, adjust your controller, and get ready for the ride – because the next chapter in gaming is just around the corner. When it does come, we’ll be sure to be the first to talk about it, so remember to keep up with us on our Instagram, TikTok and Facebook


Photos by Russell Loh of the DANAMIC Team. Additional visuals courtesy of Nintendo, Rockstar Games, Sony PlayStation, and Bethesda.

Ethan Yeo

If I'm not at my laptop writing, you can catch me cafe-hopping or in an MMA gym!

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