2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year in gaming, with major franchises making long-awaited returns and exciting new IPs hitting consoles and PCs alike. Whether you’re into open-world exploration, cinematic storytelling, or competitive multiplayer, there’s something big coming your way this year. Let’s take a look at the top upcoming video games still slated for release in 2025—along with their confirmed or estimated launch dates.

1. Grand Theft Auto VI

  • Release Date: Fall 2025 (exact date TBD)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto VI is arguably the most anticipated release of the decade. Returning to a modernized Vice City, the game will feature a dual protagonist system (including the franchise’s first female lead) and an expansive open world said to be the biggest yet. Expect groundbreaking AI, stunning visuals, and the signature social satire GTA is known for.

2. Mario Kart World

  • Release Date: June 5, 2025
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2 (launch title)

Mario Kart World is the next evolution of Nintendo’s beloved racing series. With an open-world twist, players can free-roam across international regions, race through real-time weather conditions, and compete in a new Knockout Tour mode with up to 24 players. Customization options are deeper than ever, making this one of the most exciting Switch 2 exclusives to date.

3. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

  • Release Date: 2025 (exact date TBD)
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch

After years of silence and a complete development reboot, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will finally bring Samus Aran back to the spotlight. The game is expected to continue the Prime series’ blend of sci-fi exploration and first-person combat, with updated visuals and enhanced Switch capabilities. Fans are hopeful for a holiday 2025 launch.

4. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

  • Release Date: 2025 (rumored Q4)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5

Hideo Kojima returns with Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, a mysterious and emotional sequel featuring Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, and Elle Fanning. The game promises to expand on the original’s unique mechanics while diving even deeper into its strange post-apocalyptic world. Expect cinematic flair and haunting storytelling.

5. Doom: The Dark Ages

  • Release Date: 2025 (exact date TBD)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Doom: The Dark Ages transports players to a medieval-inspired setting in this prequel to the modern Doom reboots. You’ll once again step into the boots of the Doom Slayer, but this time you’ll face demons with swords, axes, and ancient tech in addition to traditional firepower. The game aims to keep the intense pace while expanding the franchise’s lore.

6. Elden Ring: Nightreign

  • Release Date: 2025 (rumored Q4)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

FromSoftware returns with Elden Ring: Nightreign, a cooperative roguelike spin-off of its 2022 Game of the Year. Unlike the solo journey of the original, this game will focus on three-player teams exploring a corrupted version of Limgrave, with procedurally generated environments and a climactic boss fight. It’s a bold new direction for the franchise.

7. Ghost of Yotei

  • Release Date: 2025 (exact date TBD)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5

Set 300 years after Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yotei introduces a new protagonist named Atsu, a female samurai seeking vengeance in feudal Hokkaido. The game is said to feature an expansive map, branching storylines, and refined stealth and combat mechanics. Expect stunning visuals and immersive storytelling from this spiritual sequel.

8. Monster Hunter Wilds

  • Release Date: February 28, 2025
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds promises to be the most open and seamless entry in the series yet. Players will explore massive, dynamic regions full of unique monsters and changing weather patterns. Mounts, weapons, and gear customization are getting a major overhaul, offering the ultimate co-op hunting experience. Buy Monster Hunter Wilds on Playstation 5 for the cheapest prices.

9. Pokémon Legends: Z-A

  • Release Date: 2025 (likely Q4)
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch (or Switch 2)

Following the breakout success of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Z-A will return players to the Kalos region with an open-world spin. With a focus on Lumiose City and urban development, the game will explore themes of tradition vs. innovation while giving players new ways to catch and interact with Pokémon. Speculation suggests it could be a launch title for Switch 2.

10. Slay the Spire 2

  • Release Date: 2025 (Early Access)
  • Platforms: PC (console release TBD)

One of the indie hits of the last decade is finally getting a sequel. Slay the Spire 2 builds on the original’s deck-building roguelike formula with new heroes, mechanics, and enemies. Early Access is expected in mid-to-late 2025, with a full release following in 2026. If you loved the first game, this is one to keep on your radar.

Final Thoughts

2025 is bursting at the seams with video game releases that promise to push the boundaries of storytelling, graphics, and gameplay mechanics. Whether you’re a fan of sprawling RPGs, adrenaline-fueled shooters, or thoughtful indie gems, something is coming this year to match your taste.

With confirmed release dates for some and speculative windows for others, one thing’s for sure: your backlog is about to get a whole lot bigger.

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