As the gaming world continually evolves, players are always looking ahead to the next big releases that promise to redefine their interactive experiences. The year 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptionally thrilling period, packed with highly anticipated titles from both renowned major studios and innovative independent developers. While the previous year, 2024, certainly delivered its share of impressive games, the upcoming roster for 2025 presents a new level of excitement for enthusiasts. The video above provides a fantastic glimpse into some of these standout entries, but there is so much more to explore about these upcoming games of 2025. Now is the opportune moment to delve deeper into the features, narratives, and gameplay mechanics that make these titles truly unmissable.
1. Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: A Return to Gritty Realism
Kicking off our exploration of the most anticipated upcoming games of 2025, we find ourselves drawn back into the historically rich world of Bohemia with Kingdom Come Deliverance 2. This highly anticipated action role-playing game continues the compelling saga of Henry, a humble blacksmith thrust into the harrowing chaos of 15th-century civil war in medieval Europe. Its predecessor earned widespread acclaim for an unwavering commitment to realism and historical accuracy, a tradition that is meticulously upheld and expanded upon in this new installment. Players are invited to immerse themselves deeply within this intricately crafted world, where every interaction and decision carries significant weight and consequence.
The sequel dramatically enhances the combat system and world exploration, introducing exciting new elements that build upon the original’s acclaimed foundation. One of the most significant additions is the inclusion of crossbows and early firearms, diversifying the tactical combat options available to Henry. Furthermore, the game world itself has been substantially expanded, now boasting a map twice the size of the original, thoughtfully divided into two distinct major regions. Gamers can look forward to navigating the serene beauty of Bohemian Paradise and the economically vibrant city of Kutná Hora. Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 is officially set to launch on February 4th, 2025, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and Windows platforms.
2. Elden Ring Nightreign: A Cooperative Twist on a Beloved Universe
Secondly, we turn our attention to one of the most intriguing entries in the 2025 lineup: Elden Ring Nightreign, a fresh and cooperative spin on the revered Elden Ring universe. This standalone action-adventure game pivots from the solitary open-world RPG experience fans are accustomed to, instead emphasizing dynamic cooperative gameplay. Players are encouraged to team up with two friends or engage with random players in a fast-paced, rogue-like adventure that promises unique challenges with every playthrough. This innovative approach allows for a shared journey through the Lands Between, fostering collaboration and strategic teamwork.
The game is set within a reimagined version of Limgrave, where familiar locales have been artfully remixed to offer novel exploration and combat scenarios. Each run through Nightreign is structured around three in-game days, progressively escalating in difficulty as night descends and a corrosive acid rain begins to shrink the playable map. A hero-based system introduces a roster of distinct characters, each endowed with unique skills and diverse play styles, encouraging players to experiment and find their preferred combat rhythm. Significantly, the removal of weight management allows for unhindered focus on intense battles and exploration. Elden Ring Nightreign is slated for release later in 2025 on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X and S, ensuring broad accessibility for a wide range of gamers.
3. Monster Hunter Wilds: An Evolving Ecosystem Awaits
Following closely in anticipation is Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom’s next monumental entry into the beloved Monster Hunter franchise, designed to build upon the immense success of Monster Hunter World. This thrilling installment transports players to the uncharted Forbidden Lands, a treacherous, monster-infested region where they must track down a missing expedition while confronting some of the fiercest creatures encountered yet. The core gameplay loop remains satisfyingly familiar: hunt, capture, or slay formidable monsters to harvest essential materials for crafting superior gear and weapons, steadily empowering hunters to tackle even grander and more perilous beasts.
All 14 classic weapon types return, each receiving enhanced move sets and a new focus mode that elevates the combat experience to be more tactical and fluid. A revolutionary feature in Wilds is its dynamic ecosystem, where monsters behave like living creatures, reacting realistically to time, weather patterns, and even their interactions with other species. Players will witness predators actively hunting prey, observe massive migrations unfold in real-time, and discover intricate life cycles as they traverse the expansive environments. Multiplayer accessibility has been refined for seamless co-op with up to four players, or if preferred, AI-controlled hunters can join solo adventurers. Quality-of-life enhancements from World are reinstated, including a revamped Slinger capable of addressing environmental hazards. Monster Hunter Wilds is poised for a global release on February 28th, 2025, across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S, marking an unprecedented simultaneous launch across all major platforms.
4. Avowed: Obsidian’s Narrative Craft in the Living Lands
Moving forward, Obsidian Entertainment, celebrated for its rich narrative experiences, presents Avowed, a significant new RPG set within the expansive world of Pillars of Eternity. In this immersive title, players assume the role of an envoy dispatched from the formidable Aedyr Empire to the enigmatic Living Lands. Their critical mission involves investigating the mysterious origins of a strange, creeping blight known as the Dreamscourge, threatening the very fabric of this vibrant realm. Avowed promises a deeply personal journey filled with discovery and consequence, characteristic of Obsidian’s acclaimed storytelling prowess.
The gameplay fluidly blends first and third-person perspectives, offering combat that encourages creative experimentation with magic, diverse melee weapons, and even early firearms. Players can effortlessly switch between varied combat setups, such as dual pistols, powerful dual wands, or the reliable sword and shield combination, customizing their approach to any challenge. Extensive skill trees facilitate the unlocking of new abilities and weapon upgrades, allowing for highly personalized play styles. Exploration of the Living Lands reveals diverse biomes, including lush forests, arid deserts, and mysterious cave systems, all sprawling across large, open zones. Companions, each possessing unique personalities and skills, will join the player’s journey, enriching the narrative through intricate dialogue choices and meaningful interactions, forming a cornerstone of this character-driven experience. Avowed is scheduled to launch on February 18th, 2025, for Windows PC and Xbox Series X and S, with day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass.
5. The First Berserker: Khazan: A Dark Fantasy Hack and Slash Epic
Our fifth entry takes us into a realm of grim resolve and brutal combat with The First Berserker: Khazan, an upcoming hack and slash RPG developed by Neople and Nexon. This title plunges players into a dark fantasy world characterized by decayed landscapes and an overwhelmingly brooding atmosphere. Players embody Khazan, a former general unjustly exiled after facing accusations of treason, now embracing his destiny as the titular First Berserker. Fueled by a burning quest for vengeance, Khazan channels dark, formidable powers to exact his retribution against those who wronged him.
The game draws significant inspiration from the legendary Berserk manga, infusing its design with brutal combat sequences, a compelling narrative of betrayal, and a deeply immersive, oppressive atmosphere. Fans eagerly anticipate its release due to the game’s fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, which demands mastery of a diverse array of weapons and skills. A sophisticated skill tree system, inspired by the mechanics of Dungeon Fighter Online, empowers players to meticulously shape Khazan’s unique combat style. While subtle Souls-like influences are detectable, the primary focus is on delivering an unadulterated, hardcore action RPG experience that consciously differentiates itself from slower, more tactical games within the genre. The First Berserker: Khazan is slated for release on March 27th, 2025, across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms.
6. Crimson Desert: A Sweeping Single-Player Medieval Fantasy
Next on our list of prominent 2025 gaming releases is Crimson Desert, a highly anticipated single-player action RPG crafted by Pearl Abyss, the acclaimed studio behind the popular Black Desert Online. This expansive game transports players into a massive medieval fantasy world, where they assume the role of Kliff, a valiant “graymane” entangled in a web of intricate political chaos and ancient, enigmatic mysteries. The game world itself is a breathtaking tapestry of diverse biomes, ranging from snow-capped mountains and vast deserts to dense forests and rugged plateaus, each imbued with its own distinct culture, lore, and formidable creatures like goblins and trolls.
The narrative weaves a complex tale centered around a fallen kingdom, the demise of a king, and the influence of mysterious time-bending forces, seamlessly blending classic fantasy tropes with intriguing futuristic twists. Gameplay mechanics are designed to be as expansive as the narrative, allowing players to raid formidable castles, solve intricate puzzles, and uncover hidden secrets scattered across a truly open world. Combat appears intensely engaging, featuring flashy moves, strategic weapon utilization, and even unique tactical maneuvers like taking hostages to gain an advantage. The AI driving non-player characters promises impressive realism, enhancing the immersion and making the world feel genuinely alive. Beyond combat, players can engage in a variety of side activities, including fishing, crafting, and assembling a formidable team of mercenaries to join them in epic battles. Crimson Desert is expected to launch in late 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Windows, and MacOS.
7. AI Limit: Sci-Fi Action in a Post-Apocalyptic Metropolis
Following that, we delve into AI Limit, a game many describe as the spiritual successor to Code Vein, offering a distinct blend of anime aesthetics and Souls-like combat. This post-apocalyptic sci-fi action RPG is set within Havenswell, the sprawling last bastion of humanity. Players step into the shoes of Arrisa, an immortal Blader tasked with uncovering the profound truth behind civilization’s cataclysmic collapse. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of environmental disaster; a failed artificial ecosystem, the proliferation of a peculiar substance known as the Mud, and the subsequent rise of monstrous entities ultimately led to humanity’s downfall, painting a hauntingly familiar yet fresh dystopia.
As Arrisa navigates Havenswell’s desolate ruins, from its grimy sewers and sprawling slums to its awe-inspiring floating sky cities, players will confront dangerous enemies, unravel concealed truths, and tirelessly search for a viable path to reconstruction. The core gameplay emphasizes fast-paced combat and extensive exploration. Arrisa gains access to a diverse arsenal of weapons, a suite of unique abilities, and an innovative left-hand transformation system, which allows for dynamic spellcasting for both offensive and supportive purposes. The Synch Rate system encourages players to experiment with balanced combinations of offensive and defensive play, rewarding strategic engagement. Furthermore, customization is a significant feature, with various weapons and clothing options providing both stylistic flair and practical combat benefits. AI Limit is slated for release on March 27th, 2025, for PlayStation 5 and Windows platforms.
8. Ghost of Yōtei: A New Legend in Feudal Japan
Our eighth highlight brings us to Ghost of Yōtei, a title heralded by PlayStation CEO Herman Hulst as potentially “the most exciting game of the year.” This action-adventure game, developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, serves as a compelling standalone sequel to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima. The story transports players to Hokkaido, Japan, in the year 1603, following the journey of Otsu, a formidable female warrior who adopts the iconic identity of the Ghost. Her saga unfolds during the pivotal, yet often overlooked, Shakushain Rebellion, providing a unique historical lens on the struggles of the Ainu people against the encroaching Matsumae Clan.
Ghost of Yōtei promises to expand upon the narrative agency of its predecessor, offering players greater control over Otsu’s journey as she seeks vengeance against both samurai and pirate adversaries. The game boasts a vast, meticulously crafted open world, designed to showcase the stunning beauty and inherent dangers of Northern Japan. Iconic locations such as the majestic Mount Yōtei and the dense, ancient forests now known as Shiretoko National Park are brought to life with breathtaking detail. Building on the robust foundation of Ghost of Tsushima, the sequel introduces deeper player choices, refined combat mechanics, and a steadfast commitment to cultural authenticity, a result of the development team’s extensive research through multiple trips to the region. Ghost of Yōtei is an exclusive title for PlayStation 5, with its release expected sometime in 2025.
9. The Outer Worlds 2: Corporate Conspiracies in Arcadia
Next up is The Outer Worlds 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Obsidian Entertainment’s beloved 2019 action RPG, setting players adrift in an entirely new solar system named Arcadia. In this fresh adventure, players assume the critical role of an Earth Directorate Agent, tasked with unraveling the mysterious origins of rifts that threaten the colony, all while navigating a complex factional war orchestrated by powerful mega-corporations. The game builds upon the robust foundation of its predecessor, skillfully blending engaging combat, strategic stealth, and impactful dialogue-driven choices to create a truly immersive experience.
Players can anticipate richly branching story paths, meticulously shaped by their decisions and interactions throughout the narrative. The sequel’s tantalizing trailer promises a significant expansion of gameplay elements, including a vastly improved selection of both melee and ranged weapons, coupled with enhanced visual fidelity. While the focus leans towards more dynamic action, the game meticulously preserves its signature dialogue tree system, which allows players unparalleled freedom in role-playing and shaping their character’s identity. This installment introduces a fresh cast of compelling characters and an entirely new, expansive setting to explore. The Outer Worlds 2 is set to release in 2025 across PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X and S. With its characteristic blend of versatile gameplay and Obsidian’s renowned storytelling, it firmly establishes itself as one of the year’s most eagerly awaited titles.
10. Doom The Dark Ages: Medieval Mayhem for the Doom Slayer
Finally, we arrive at Doom The Dark Ages, an upcoming first-person shooter that serves as a thrilling prequel to the critically acclaimed 2016 Doom reboot and its equally explosive successor, Doom Eternal. This unique installment transports players to a medieval fantasy world, where they embody the iconic Doom Slayer during his formative years as a weapon wielded by ancient gods and powerful kings. In this reimagined setting, players are tasked with defending besieged kingdoms and battling the relentless forces of Hell using a formidable arsenal of brutal new weapons, including a devastating mace, a versatile saw shield, and a grotesque skull gun, alongside classic Doom staples like the super shotgun.
The game innovatively reinterprets Doom’s signature combat by seamlessly blending the frantic, strafing-heavy gameplay of the original series with grounded mechanics that emphasize horizontal movement over verticality. This medieval theme introduces a host of terrifying new enemies, colossal AI encounters, and even monstrous demon dragons, all while maintaining the chaotic, fast-paced action that defines the franchise. With expansive worlds to explore, fresh weaponry to master, and gameplay that skillfully combines nostalgic elements with groundbreaking innovation, Doom The Dark Ages promises to deliver an incredibly thrilling experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Scheduled for release in 2025, Doom The Dark Ages will be available on PC, Xbox Series X and S, and PlayStation 5, firmly establishing itself as one of the year’s most exciting shooters among the many upcoming games of 2025.
