Exciting Games Ahead: The Most Anticipated Video Game Launches for 2025
A new year brings thrilling gaming experiences.
2024 had its share of both standout titles and some letdowns, but the lineup for 2025 is looking quite promising.
This upcoming year is filled with eagerly awaited sequels, fresh installments from beloved franchises, and even a new console from Nintendo.
While some release dates might shift, the current outlook for this year’s game offerings suggests it’s bound to be a memorable year for gamers and developers alike.
Here are some of the major video games and gaming events we are excited about in 2025:
Nintendo Switch Successor
A new gaming console from Nintendo is set to debut this year. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa announced in May that the company would reveal information about the successor to the Switch “within the fiscal year,” which concludes in March. The new system will support backwards compatibility, according to company statements.
Launched in 2017, the Switch remains one of the most successful gaming consoles, having sold over 143 million units as of October 2024.
The Sims 25th Anniversary
The beloved life simulation game, The Sims, will celebrate its 25th anniversary on February 4. Electronic Arts is gearing up for celebrations with special kits (three are set to release on January 16), unique events, a 25-hour livestream, and a free content update for The Sims 4 that includes over 70 new items and additional features.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom’s upcoming action RPG, Monster Hunter Wilds, will allow players to hunt monsters while managing various environmental challenges. This game is a sequel to 2018’s Monster Hunter: World.
Release date: February 28
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Carmen Sandiego
In this new chapter of the classic adventure series, players will have the chance to step into the shoes of Carmen Sandiego. Drawing inspiration from the “Carmen Sandiego” animated series on Netflix (2019-2021), the game invites players to explore different global locations, solve puzzles, practice stealth and espionage, and outsmart the villainous organization.
The reboot by Gameloft commemorates the 40th anniversary of the series and will initially launch on iOS/Android via Netflix on January 28, before becoming available globally for consoles and PC in March.
Release date: March 4 (Available on iOS/Android via Netflix from January 28)
Platforms: Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, mobile/Netflix
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, players will traverse feudal Japan, either as a samurai or a shinobi assassin. This open-world installment from Ubisoft will feature dynamic weather, seasonal changes, and immersive environments, as players develop combat skills and gather weapons to confront foes.
Release date: March 20
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Tales of the Shire
Get ready to enjoy life in Hobbiton! Tales of the Shire is a cozy life simulation game from Wētā Workshop, set in the enchanting world of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.” Players will have the freedom to explore the Shire, engage with fellow Hobbits, decorate homes, garden, fish, cook, and much more.
Release date: March 25
Platforms: Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PC
GTA6
Anticipation is high for Grand Theft Auto 6, one of the most awaited games in recent times, expected to launch in 2025.
Set in the fictional state of Leonida, this installment features a criminal duo, Lucia (the first female lead since 2000) and her partner. Rockstar Games is bringing a contemporary open-world experience that satirizes modern culture, incorporating references to Internet memes and influencer lifestyles.
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra
This cooperative adventure features a young Steve Rogers (Captain America) and T’Challa’s grandfather, Azzuri (the Black Panther of his time), as they join forces against the HYDRA organization in this action-packed game from Skydance and Marvel Games.
The historical context and characters are inspired by the Marvel Comics series “Captain America/Black Panther: Flags of Our Fathers.”
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: TBA
Professor Layton and the New World of Steam
Professor Hershel Layton returns for another case alongside his assistant Luke in this latest puzzle-adventure game from Level-5.
Set a year after the events of Professor Layton and the Unwound Future (which was released in North America in 2010), this installment showcases a unique steampunk aesthetic.
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: Switch
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Samus, the galaxy’s top bounty hunter, is set for a thrilling new mission in this long-awaited entry in the Metroid Prime series, developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo.
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: Switch
Shadow Labyrinth
Bandai Namco’s 2D action platformer, Shadow Labyrinth, reimagines Pac-Man with a darker twist. Players will venture through a haunting, war-ravaged planet, guided by a floating companion named Puck.
This game is connected with an episode from Prime Video’s animated series “Secret Level,” which adapts and draws inspiration from video games.
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Wylde Society
Wylde Society serves as a prequel to the cozy life-sim Wylde Flowers and is set in Fairhaven at the dawn of the 20th century, crafted by Studio Drydock. This upcoming title will carry on the magical and whimsical themes from its predecessor.
Players will assume the role of Vivian Wylde, managing a magical boarding house — from customizing and decorating the residence to caring for tenants and hosting social gatherings.
Release date: TBA 2025
Platforms: TBA