2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for gaming, and I couldn’t be more excited. The slate of upcoming titles offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation, with some of the most beloved franchises returning alongside bold new projects that are pushing boundaries. As a lifelong gamer who lives for that mix of adrenaline, wonder, and escapism that only games can provide, I’ve got a lot to say about what’s coming. Let’s dive into the games I can’t wait to play, and why they’ve already captured my imagination.
1. Grand Theft Auto VI
Let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way: Grand Theft Auto VI is the game of the decade, if not the century. Rockstar’s return to Vice City feels like a homecoming. The trailers have teased a vibrant, sprawling urban landscape teeming with life and a narrative that promises to tackle modern socio-political themes. While I’m excited about the inevitable chaos of police chases and multiplayer shenanigans, it’s the rumored dual-protagonist system and deeper character arcs that have me intrigued. GTA has always been at its best when it’s balancing satire with humanity, and I’m betting that Rockstar will nail it again.
2. Death Stranding 2
Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was divisive, but it captivated me. There’s something almost meditative about delivering packages in a hauntingly beautiful post-apocalyptic world. With Death Stranding 2, Kojima has hinted at expanding the gameplay and delving further into the cryptic lore of his universe. The trailers have been cryptic, but that’s classic Kojima. It’s not just a game; it’s an experience that leaves you thinking long after you’ve put the controller down. I’m ready to strap on my virtual boots and face whatever weird, philosophical journey he’s got in store.
3. Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Ever since Assassin’s Creed teased a feudal Japan setting, fans have been clamoring for it, and Shadows is finally delivering. Ubisoft has promised a more grounded, stealth-focused experience akin to the older titles, and that alone has me excited. The trailers showcasing cherry blossom-laden landscapes, intricate castles, and the ability to choose between being a samurai or a ninja already scream GOTY contender. It’s about time the franchise goes full Ghost of Tsushima, and I’m here for it.
4. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
The original Kingdom Come: Deliverance was a flawed masterpiece. Its painstaking dedication to historical accuracy made it a standout RPG, even if the gameplay could be a bit clunky at times. The sequel aims to refine those rough edges while keeping the immersive medieval experience intact. I can’t wait to lose myself in a world where swordplay feels authentic, politics are deadly, and every choice has meaningful consequences. If you’re a fan of hardcore RPGs, this one should be on your radar too.
5. Monster Hunter Wilds
The Monster Hunter series has always been a cooperative masterpiece, and Wilds looks like it’s taking things to a whole new level. Capcom has teased expansive biomes, seamless multiplayer integration, and a variety of new monsters that are as terrifying as they are majestic. What’s more, they’ve promised a focus on exploration and survival, making this entry feel more dynamic. After hundreds of hours hunting Rathalos and Diablos in previous games, I’m ready for the next big adventure.
6. Civilization VII
As a strategy nerd, I’ve sunk more hours into the Civilization series than I’d like to admit. Civ VII promises to innovate with new mechanics that reward cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, and advanced diplomacy. Firaxis has also hinted at making the AI more challenging—a long-requested feature. If they can pull this off, we’re looking at another time-sink that’ll dominate my weekends for months.
7. Borderlands 4
The Borderlands series has always been a guilty pleasure of mine. It’s chaotic, irreverent, and unabashedly fun. While Borderlands 3 didn’t quite hit the high notes of its predecessor, Borderlands 4 seems poised to bring the series back to its roots. Gearbox is doubling down on the humor, loot variety, and over-the-top action that made the series iconic. Plus, the new playable characters look like they’ve got some game-changing abilities. Here’s hoping the writing is as sharp as the shooting.
Honorable Mentions:
While these games didn’t quite make my top list, they’re still worth keeping an eye on:
- Metroid Prime 4: It’s been a long wait, but Samus is finally returning. The promise of exploring mysterious alien worlds has me excited, though I’m cautiously optimistic until we see more gameplay.
- Star Wars: Eclipse: Quantic Dream’s foray into the Star Wars universe looks ambitious, though its blend of branching narratives and action gameplay is a bit untested for the studio.
- Avowed: Obsidian’s answer to Skyrim could be the RPG of the year if it delivers on its promises of deep lore and dynamic combat.
Wrapping Up
2025 is not just a year of big names and sequels—it’s a year where the gaming industry is pushing boundaries in narrative, gameplay, and technology. For me, it’s about more than just hype; it’s about the potential these games have to tell unforgettable stories and create incredible experiences.
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed adventures, thoughtful strategy, or deeply immersive RPGs, there’s something in this lineup for everyone. Here’s to a year filled with late-night gaming sessions, spirited discussions, and perhaps a few new contenders for my personal all-time favorites list. Let the games begin!