Top picks for 2025: The games we’re most excited for

by MaddOx
0 comments

As we step into 2025, the gaming world is set to deliver an incredible year of releases that cater to every kind of player. From long-awaited sequels to beloved franchises, to remakes of nostalgic classics, this year promises to keep us glued to our screens. Whether you’re hunting dinosaurs, navigating crime-ridden cities, or exploring magical lands, there’s a game on the horizon for you.

Here are the games we can’t wait to get our hands on in 2025. Dive in, and let us know what’s caught your eye!

The games we’re most excited about in 2025

ARK 2

Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC

The sequel to the popular survival game ARK: Survival Evolved, ARK 2 promises to enhance the survival experience with improved mechanics and a rich storyline. With Vin Diesel not only starring as Santiago but also serving as an executive producer, the game aims to blend intense survival elements with a compelling narrative. While a specific release date remains unconfirmed, it’s slated for 2025.

I never fully immersed myself in the original ARK, despite my appreciation for survival games. However, the advancements and star power behind ARK 2 have piqued my interest. For newcomers like me, it’s reassuring to know that the sequel is designed to be accessible without prior experience.

2025 Video Game Release ARK 2 - Riding a Dinosaur

Borderlands 4

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

The Borderlands series is renowned for its distinctive cel-shaded art style, over-the-top weaponry, and irreverent humour. Borderlands 4 is expected to expand on these elements, introducing new characters, environments, and an arsenal of outrageous weaponry. While specific details are under wraps, the game is anticipated to be released in 2025.

This is one of the games I’m most excited about this year. The Borderlands series has always been a co-op staple for me and my partner. I can already see us booking time off work to dive into this new adventure. And after the disaster that was the Borderlands film, I’m hopeful this game can restore the damage done to my brain.

Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remaster

Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch

This is the remake I’ve been waiting for. We’ve had Crash, we’ve had Spyro. Now it’s time for this snappy little guy to get his time back in the limelight.

Originally released in 1997, Croc: Legend of the Gobbos is a classic 3D platformer that follows Croc on his quest to rescue the Gobbos from the evil Baron Dante. The remaster aims to reignite the imaginations of players with enhanced HD graphics, updated modern controls, and an authentic gameplay experience that will transport players back to the golden age of gaming.

The inclusion of the Crocipedia, a digital museum packed with design documents, concept art, and more, offers fans a deep dive into the game’s development. Initially slated for December 2024, the release has been delayed to Q1 2025 to ensure the game meets high-quality standards.

Croc Legend of the Gobbos lava level

Fable

Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC

The Fable series is known for its whimsical storytelling, moral choices, and rich fantasy world. The upcoming instalment, developed by Playground Games, is expected to reboot the franchise, offering a fresh take while retaining the charm that made the originals beloved. While a specific release date hasn’t been announced, it’s anticipated for 2025.

If you’ve never played Fable, it’s likely because you’re a PlayStation fanboy. Admittedly, I’ve gone back to PS from Xbox since it was the easier console to get in this generation. But even I know this is going to be a hell of a game. I loved the previous instalments, and it’s going to be great to revisit the lands of this game for a new adventure.

Grand Theft Auto VI

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Who isn’t looking forward to this? Probably the most hotly anticipated release of 2025. If it even comes out this year?

Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto series has set benchmarks in open-world gaming. GTA VI is expected to introduce a new city, possibly Vice City, with a dynamic storyline and enhanced graphics. While Rockstar has not officially confirmed details, industry speculation points to a Fall 2025 release.

GTA 6 - Grand Theft Auto 6 - Key Art

Silent Hill: Townfall

Platforms: PC

Silent Hill: Townfall is a new entry in the acclaimed horror franchise, developed by No Code Studios and published by Annapurna Interactive. The game aims to deliver a fresh perspective on the Silent Hill universe, focusing on psychological horror elements. While specific details are scarce, it’s expected to be released in 2025.

After voting Bloober Team’s Silent Hill 2 Remake as my game of the year over on NinjaRefinery, I cannot wait to revisit the spooky old town of Silent Hill once again. Fingers crossed we get more updates on the movie this year as well.

Splitgate 2

Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC

Absolutely loved the original Splitgate. And I wasn’t half bad at it. The original Splitgate combined fast-paced shooting mechanics with portal-based movement, creating a unique multiplayer experience. Splitgate 2 is expected to build upon this foundation, introducing new abilities and modes to enhance gameplay. While a release date hasn’t been confirmed, it’s anticipated for 2025.

Splitgate 2 characters running through a portal into battle

Turok: Origins

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Turok: Origins aims to reboot the classic dinosaur-hunting franchise, offering modern graphics and gameplay while staying true to the original’s spirit. Players can expect a blend of exploration and intense combat against prehistoric creatures. The game is slated for a 2025 release.

I still remember playing the original Turok games on my Nintendo 64. I cannot wait to go dinosaur hunting again when this game releases. And while we’re on dinosaurs, maybe an official Dino Crisis remake announcement wouldn’t go amiss as well?

Other notable mentions

2025 is a year filled with exciting games, and while some titles have grabbed the spotlight above, there are plenty of other releases that deserve attention. Here are some additional games that have caught our eye:

Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft’s latest installment takes us to 16th-century feudal Japan, a setting fans have been clamouring for. Players will explore the dual lives of a samurai and a shinobi, combining stealth and combat in a beautifully rendered world. Originally set for February 14th, the release has been pushed to March 20th to ensure a polished experience.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector

This sequel builds upon the original’s narrative depth, taking players into a dystopian future where survival is intertwined with rich storytelling. Citizen Sleeper 2 launches on January 31st and is shaping up to be another emotionally charged adventure.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Hideo Kojima’s enigmatic masterpiece gets a sequel, promising to expand on its unique storytelling and gameplay. Expect more cryptic twists, stunning visuals, and Kojima’s signature blend of the surreal and the profound.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

Following the journey of Henry of Skalitz, this sequel dives deeper into the Hussite Wars of medieval Europe. With its focus on historical authenticity and a gripping narrative, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is set to deliver a truly immersive experience. Look out for it on February 4th.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII

The iconic strategy series returns, offering innovative mechanics that allow players to navigate new epoch transitions and command a diverse roster of leaders. Civilization VII is poised to let players reshape history in creative ways when it launches on February 11th.

South of Midnight

Step into a world of magical realism inspired by Southern folklore. With its atmospheric setting and narrative-driven gameplay, South of Midnight is shaping up to be a uniquely immersive experience.

Man Gaming in front of a big TV

2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for gaming, with a lineup that has something for everyone—whether you’re diving into dinosaur-infested jungles, revisiting nostalgic favourites, or exploring bold new worlds. From the blockbuster heavyweights like Grand Theft Auto VI to the more niche offerings like Citizen Sleeper 2, this year promises a diverse range of experiences to keep our consoles and PCs running hot. Whatever your gaming tastes, one thing’s for sure: 2025 will be a year to remember.


For more opinion pieces like this, click right here.

You may also like

Leave a Comment