2025 game launches: 15 games that should be on your watchlist

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a powerhouse for gaming, with a lineup so stacked it might just break our collective backlog management strategies. From long-awaited sequels to fresh IPs daring to redefine genres, these upcoming titles promise everything from open-world chaos to mind-bending narratives. Grand Theft Auto VI is finally breaking cover, Assassin’s Creed is going full shinobi, and Doom is trading sci-fi horror for medieval carnage. But that’s just the start – whether you’re itching for high-stakes RPGs, competitive brawlers, or atmospheric horror, there’s something on the horizon for every kind of gamer. We’re diving into 15 of the most anticipated releases, breaking down why each deserves a spot on your watchlist. Buckle up – 2025 is about to be a wild ride.

Grand Theft Auto VI (PS5, Xbox Series X)

After years of speculation, Rockstar Games officially confirmed GTA VI for release in Fall 2025. The game promises a sprawling open-world set in Vice City and its surrounding areas, featuring unparalleled realism, dynamic NPCs, and next-gen AI. Its excitement stems from the series’ legacy as a benchmark for open-world games and the revolutionary gameplay mechanics teased in early previews. Players eagerly await its intricate storylines, heists, and multiplayer innovations, making it the most talked-about game of the decade​.

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows (Platforms TBD)

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows shifts the franchise’s focus to a darker, grittier narrative set in feudal Japan. Slated for 2025, it introduces new stealth mechanics and RPG-like decision-making, allowing players to forge their own path as an assassin. The excitement revolves around fan demand for a Japan-themed installment and Ubisoft’s emphasis on storytelling depth and combat innovation. This entry seeks to redefine the Assassin’s Creed experience while staying true to its stealth-action roots.​

Doom: The Dark Ages (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X)

Doom: The Dark Ages reinvents the iconic FPS formula by plunging players into a medieval setting filled with demonic horrors. Scheduled for 2025, it incorporates melee combat alongside traditional firearms, blending gothic environments with the franchise’s signature high-octane gameplay. Fans are excited about its thematic departure and id Software’s proven ability to deliver adrenaline-pumping action. The game’s atmospheric trailers and promise of brutal new challenges have made it one of the most anticipated titles of the year​.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (PS5)

Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding 2 continues its cryptic narrative about rebuilding humanity in a fractured world. Releasing in 2025, the sequel expands on its predecessor’s innovative “strand” mechanics, allowing for deeper player connections and environmental interaction. Fans are excited by the stunning visuals showcased in teasers and the return of stars like Norman Reedus. With promises of new gameplay systems and mysteries to unravel, the game is poised to push the boundaries of storytelling in video games​.

Fable (PC, Xbox Series X)

The beloved Fable franchise returns in 2025 as a reboot developed by Playground Games. Set in a whimsical, open-world fantasy kingdom, the game reimagines the series with modern visuals and gameplay mechanics while retaining its humour and moral choices. Anticipation stems from the studio’s reputation for crafting immersive worlds and the nostalgia tied to the original trilogy. Fans look forward to exploring a richly detailed Albion and shaping their hero’s destiny through impactful choices​.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (Switch)

Nintendo’s Metroid Prime 4 continues Samus Aran’s galactic adventures, offering an immersive first-person experience. Confirmed for 2025, the game builds on the success of its predecessors with expansive environments, enhanced combat mechanics, and a deeper narrative. Its announcement reignited excitement among fans who had waited over a decade for a new Prime instalment. Players are eager to explore alien worlds and uncover secrets in this highly anticipated sequel​.

Killing Floor 3 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X)

Killing Floor 3 brings the popular co-op survival series into 2025 with new enemies, weapons, and enhanced graphics. Set in a dystopian future overrun by Zeds, players must team up to survive waves of increasingly difficult foes. Fans are excited by the promise of deeper customisation, strategic gameplay, and new maps. Its refined co-op mechanics and gruesome visuals make it a must-play for fans of action and horror​.

Avowed (PC, Xbox Series X)

Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed is a first-person fantasy RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe. Launching in 2025, the game combines deep lore with action-oriented gameplay, offering players a vast, explorable world filled with magic and intrigue. Fans anticipate its narrative depth, reminiscent of The Elder Scrolls, and its immersive world-building. As a major new IP, it highlights Obsidian’s ambition to redefine the RPG genre​.

Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time (Switch)

Scheduled for April 2025, Fantasy Life i is a life simulation RPG that introduces time travel to its charming gameplay loop. Players can craft, farm, and battle while uncovering a time-spanning mystery. Its engaging blend of life sim mechanics and narrative has fans excited, especially given the success of its predecessor on the Nintendo 3DS. The game’s whimsical art style and varied gameplay ensure it appeals to all types of gamers​.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves (PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X)

SNK’s legendary fighting game series makes its grand return in 2025 with Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. Featuring updated graphics, enhanced combat mechanics, and a nostalgic yet modern roster, it aims to rekindle the magic of classic arcade fighters. Fans are excited for its competitive depth and iconic characters. The confirmed release date ensures that fighting game enthusiasts can look forward to intense battles next spring​.

Koira (PC, PS5)

Koira is a narrative-driven adventure game debuting on April 17, 2025. Set in a beautifully crafted world, players form bonds with an AI dog companion while solving environmental puzzles. Its emotional storytelling and unique gameplay mechanics have already garnered attention. Gamers are excited about its heartfelt narrative and the potential for deeply immersive gameplay that resonates on a personal level​.

Crimson Desert (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X)

Launching in 2025, Crimson Desert blends MMO elements with a single-player action-adventure narrative. Set in a war-torn fantasy world, it features breathtaking visuals, dynamic combat, and a rich story. Fans eagerly await its ambitious approach to merging online and offline gameplay, promising an experience that adapts to both playstyles. Its trailers have highlighted massive battles and intricate world-building, making it a standout among 2025’s offerings.

Little Nightmares 3 (PC, consoles)

Little Nightmares 3 continues the haunting, atmospheric journey of its predecessors. Scheduled for 2025, the game introduces co-op gameplay, allowing players to navigate eerie, puzzle-filled environments together. Fans are excited for its dark visuals, immersive storytelling, and chilling sound design. As a sequel to a beloved series, it promises to expand its unique blend of horror and platforming​.

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X)

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra is a strategic action game set in an alternate WWII timeline. Expected in 2025, it features iconic Marvel heroes battling Hydra in a gritty, historical setting. Fans are intrigued by its tactical gameplay and fresh take on superhero narratives. The combination of Marvel’s storytelling with innovative mechanics makes it a unique addition to the superhero gaming genre​.

Professor Layton and the New World of Steam (Switch)

Returning in 2025, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam brings the iconic puzzle-solver into a steampunk-inspired setting. Players will tackle intricate mysteries and brain-teasing puzzles while exploring a richly detailed world. Fans are excited by the promise of innovative puzzle mechanics and the nostalgic charm of the series’ beloved protagonist. This new instalment aims to recapture the magic that made Layton a fan favourite.

Interested in reading more gaming features, news, and opinions? Head over to SKOAR!