Best Upcoming Video Games in 2025

Top 10 Upcoming Video Games to Watch in 2025

Introduction:
The gaming calendar is packed, and the best video games 2025 promises are truly epic. Major studios and indie developers alike are delivering a lineup of upcoming games that have players buzzing with anticipation. In this introduction, we’ll set the stage for the top 10 titles you need on your radar. These range from long-awaited sequels in legendary franchises to bold new entries set to redefine genres. The gaming industry in 2025 is brimming with innovation – think next-gen graphics, immersive worlds, and gameplay trailers that have already amassed millions of views. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, these titles represent the new releases that will dominate your playtime. So grab your calendar (and maybe start saving up for pre-orders): here are the games to watch in 2025 that everyone will be talking about. Let’s dive in!

1. Hollow Knight: Silksong

One of the most anticipated upcoming games is Hollow Knight: Silksong. As the sequel to 2017’s indie hit Hollow Knight, this title has huge buzz in the gaming industry. Players will control Hornet, a fan-favorite character, exploring a whole new kingdom filled with bugs, beasts, and challenging bosses. Game trailers for Silksong have showcased gorgeous hand-drawn art, atmospheric music, and tight platforming gameplay – all hallmarks of the original. With a release date of September 4, 2025 confirmed, fans are counting down the days. Silksong promises more of the rich Metroidvania style exploration and tough combat that made its predecessor a modern classic, but with new acrobatic moves and crafting features to deepen the experience. If early previews are any indication, Hollow Knight: Silksong might not just be one of the best video games 2025 produces, but a Game of the Year contender. Keep an eye on this one – it’s an upcoming adventure poised to deliver a magical (and challenging) journey beneath the soil.

2. Monster Hunter Wilds

The Monster Hunter franchise goes next-gen with Monster Hunter Wilds, slated for February 28, 2025. This is expected to be Capcom’s biggest Monster Hunter release since World revolutionized the series a few years back. Wilds will likely introduce a new lush region to explore, teeming with towering monsters to hunt solo or with friends. Rumor has it this game will feature the largest maps in the series yet, plus dynamic weather that affects monster behavior – imagine stalking a dragon through a thunderstorm! The title implies more open, possibly untamed environments compared to previous entries. Fans are excited about potential new weapon types and the return of favorite creatures (Rathalos, anyone?). The gaming industry is watching this closely because Monster Hunter is a massive seller globally – in fact, it’s a cultural phenomenon in regions like Japan. Early game trailers have shown glimpses of jaw-dropping encounters: a hunter grappling onto a colossal beast as it crashes through a forest. If you love action RPGs and co-op battles against huge foes, Monster Hunter Wilds is absolutely one of the top video games 2025 will offer. Sharpen your blades and get your Palico companion ready – big game hunting is back in a wild way.

3. Civilization VII

Strategy fans, rejoice: Civilization VII is on the horizon, dropping on February 11, 2025 for PC and consoles. As the latest entry in Sid Meier’s legendary turn-based strategy series, Civ VII carries sky-high expectations. Each Civilization game lets you guide a society from the Stone Age to the Space Age, and this installment promises to evolve that classic formula. What’s new? Firaxis (the developer) has been tight-lipped, but insiders hint at a more dynamic world map with climate and ecosystem changes (think rising sea levels or resources that deplete) to add challenge and realism. The AI leaders are said to be smarter and more personality-driven – no more predictable patterns from Gandhi or Cleopatra! Additionally, Civ VII could integrate deeper cultural and religious gameplay, and possibly include a World Congress with expanded diplomatic victory conditions. The first game trailer or screenshots aren’t out yet, but the announcement alone sent the community into theorizing overdrive. Given how addictive and richly detailed Civ VI was (with its expansions), many expect Civ VII to be one of the best video games 2025 for strategy enthusiasts. If building wonders, negotiating with rivals, and conquering the globe is your idea of fun, mark your calendar for this upcoming game. Just one more turn? In 2025, that turn will belong to Civilization VII.

4. Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater

A blast from the past is coming in 2025 with Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater, a ground-up remake of the beloved 2004 classic MGS3: Snake Eater. Slated for August 28, 2025, this remake has fans equal parts excited and nervous (as any remake of a masterpiece does). Konami has promised to preserve the original’s acclaimed story and voice acting, while completely overhauling graphics and gameplay for modern standards. That means you can expect the intense Cold War stealth-action of the original – stalking through the jungle as Naked Snake (the man who would become Big Boss) – now rendered in stunning detail with realistic foliage, wildlife, and weather. The famous survival elements (treating wounds, eating snakes to survive) will return, possibly with new depth. And yes, the legendary boss fights, like the duel against The End (an elderly sniper in a sprawling forest), are back and likely more epic than ever. The Δ (Delta) in the title signifies “change” without “changing form” according to Konami, hinting at a faithful but enhanced remake. The early teaser game trailer showed the jungle environment and a quick look at Snake in camouflage, immediately igniting hype. As one of the most celebrated stealth games of all time, Snake Eater returning makes this easily one of the upcoming games to watch. It’s poised to introduce a new generation to Metal Gear’s rich narrative (and that unforgettable theme song, “Snake Eater”), making MGS Δ a potential highlight among the best video games 2025 will deliver.

5. Borderlands 4

Get ready for more mayhem and loot – Borderlands 4 is arriving in late 2025, specifically on September 23, 2025. The Borderlands series, famed for its vibrant cel-shaded art style, zany humor, and billions of guns, is a staple of co-op FPS gaming. This fourth main entry is set to push the formula further. According to Gearbox, Borderlands 4 will introduce new Vault Hunters (playable characters) each with wild new abilities and skill trees. Perhaps even more exciting, the game is expanding its universe: rumors suggest we might explore multiple planets again (as in Borderlands 3) but with more distinct environments – imagine one planet that’s a cyberpunk cityscape and another that’s a swampy marsh teeming with alien life. The villain remains under wraps, but Borderlands has a track record of memorable baddies (Handsome Jack, anyone?), so expectations are high for a new antagonist we’ll love to hate. In terms of gameplay, fans expect even crazier gun customization and more dynamic co-op features. Split-screen is likely to return (great for couch co-op), and cross-play should be a given so PC, Xbox, and PlayStation gamers can team up. The first gameplay trailer at a summer showcase showed a snippet of the trademark over-the-top action: one character surfing on a flying weapons cache while blasting bandits with a shotgun that shoots lightning – Borderlands in a nutshell. As a new release in a beloved franchise, Borderlands 4 is definitely one of the best video games 2025 is hyping up. It promises endless shooting-and-looting fun, perfect for those looking to team up with friends and go on a chaotic ride through the Borderlands once more.

6. Ghost of Yōtei (Ghost of Tsushima Sequel)

Sony is set to delight samurai fans with Ghost of Yōtei, the heavily anticipated sequel to 2020’s Ghost of Tsushima. Launching on October 2, 2025 for PS5, this title (from Sucker Punch Productions) continues the open-world stealth-action adventure in feudal Japan. The name “Yōtei” refers to a volcanic mountain (often likened to “Hokkaido’s Mt. Fuji”), hinting that the story may move to Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. Jin Sakai, the “Ghost,” could be facing new invaders or internal conflicts in a colder, perhaps more unforgiving landscape. Expected features include expanded stealth mechanics (the first game brilliantly blended samurai swordplay with ninja-like tactics). Possibly, there will be new traversal methods – maybe horseback archery or even using primitive firearms as they were emerging in that era. The game trailers thus far showed Jin riding through a golden forest and glimpses of snowy mountains, highlighting the sequel’s stunning visuals and atmosphere. Combat in Ghost of Yōtei is set to refine the already excellent katana duels from Tsushima; we anticipate new stances or techniques to master, and even more dramatic showdown sequences. If Tsushima was about the Mongol invasion of that island, Yōtei might deal with a different threat, perhaps a clan war or a mainland incursion, which would make for an intense narrative. Ghost of Tsushima wowed players with its cinematic presentation (famously having a Kurosawa-inspired mode) and emotional storytelling. Given that track record, Ghost of Yōtei is easily one of the top video games 2025 to watch. It aims to deliver another epic where you can live out your samurai dreams – honor, revenge, and beautiful cherry blossoms included.

7. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Hideo Kojima’s next opus, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, is set to continue the mind-bending saga that began with 2019’s Death Stranding. Scheduled for June 26, 2025 (on PlayStation 5 initially), this sequel brings back Norman Reedus as Sam Porter Bridges in a post-apocalyptic world plagued by otherworldly phenomena. The subtitle “On the Beach” hints at deeper exploration of the eerie shorelines that in Kojima’s lore connect life and the afterlife. Fans expect the game to further unravel the cryptic storyline of BBs (Bridge Babies), DOOMS abilities, and the chiral network. Game trailers released so far are typically Kojima-weird and intriguing – one showed Fragile (Léa Seydoux) cradling a child and a hint that a grown-up BB (Lou) might be central now. Gameplay-wise, Death Stranding 2 will likely retain the core loop of traversal and delivery (hiking across surreal landscapes with cargo), but Kojima has promised to address feedback to make the experience even more engaging. Perhaps we’ll see improved vehicle mechanics, new structures to build in the world, and more social online features where player actions help others (one of the original’s most praised aspects). And of course, expect new threats – maybe more varieties of BTs (Beached Things) and tense boss encounters in the style only Kojima can deliver. Given Kojima Productions’ penchant for pushing technical boundaries, this could be one of the most visually impressive games on PS5 yet. Death Stranding 2 is undoubtedly an upcoming game to watch for those craving something truly unique. If you enjoyed the blend of solitude, connection, and philosophical sci-fi from the first game, this sequel aims to elevate that to another level, making it a candidate for one of the best video games 2025 for the adventurous gamer.

8. The Outer Worlds 2

Obsidian Entertainment returns to the satirical sci-fi universe of Halcyon with The Outer Worlds 2, set for October 29, 2025 on Xbox Series X|S and PC (and likely Game Pass on day one). The first Outer Worlds (2019) charmed players with its Fallout-style RPG gameplay and humorous take on mega-corporations in space. The announcement trailer for Outer Worlds 2 cheekily admitted they hadn’t finalized the hero, story, or gameplay yet – just the title – which set a playful tone. By now, though, we know some details: it will take place in a new star system apart from the original game’s Halcyon Colony. That means new planets to explore, new factions, and fresh companions to recruit. Fans can expect Obsidian’s signature branching dialogue and player choice to play a huge role, possibly with even more impact on the ending this time. On the combat front, the original’s shooter mechanics were solid if not revolutionary, so Obsidian might refine gunplay and add more variety in weapons (science weapons were a fun twist in game one). Also, let’s hope for even more weird and wonderful side quests – Outer Worlds had memorable quests involving philosophical robots and diet toothpaste conspiracies, so the sky’s the limit here. Given Obsidian’s track record with RPGs, this sequel could quietly become one of the best video games 2025 for RPG fans. The blend of space adventure, dark comedy, and player-driven narrative sets The Outer Worlds 2 apart in the lineup of upcoming games. Keep an eye out for extended gameplay footage likely to drop at Xbox’s summer showcase – it’ll be exciting to see what absurd scenarios and morally gray choices await us among the stars.

9. Battlefield 6

The Battlefield franchise is gearing up for its next big entry, rumored (and likely) to be Battlefield 6 – though the official title might differ, it’s the sixth main entry in modern context (Battlefield 5 released back in 2018). Set to deploy on October 10, 2025, Battlefield 6 has a mission: to reclaim the crown of large-scale multiplayer warfare. After a rocky reception to Battlefield 2042, DICE is reportedly returning to a modern or near-future setting but with lessons learned. What should players expect? Massive, dynamic maps supporting 128-player battles (on next-gen consoles and PC) – think cities under siege, wide-open deserts with tank warfare, and dense jungles for infantry combat. A big emphasis is likely on “Levolution” style events – perhaps even more dramatic than before (imagine a map where a nuclear reactor meltdown can alter the battlefield mid-match). The game trailers and marketing will likely highlight a blend of classic Battlefield elements (jets, helicopters, destructible buildings) with new innovations like more robust squad mechanics or an in-match commander role return. There’s also talk of a dedicated Battle Royale mode built from the ground up, which could be a separate free-to-play component – tapping into that Warzone/Apex audience. Campaign-wise, Battlefield 6 might include a single-player story (BF2042 infamously lacked one). If so, hopefully it’s a compelling, globe-trotting narrative in the vein of BF3/BF4. Ultimately, shooter fans are hoping Battlefield 6 delivers the polished, epic experience DICE is known for: adrenaline-fueled gaming industry spectacles where every match produces watercooler moments (like ejecting from a jet to rocket-launch an enemy helicopter – then landing back in said jet). As a marquee AAA title, Battlefield 6 is definitely one of the best video games 2025 to watch, promising a high-end, action-packed showcase for your new console or gaming PC.

10. Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Nintendo looks to build on the success of Pokémon Legends: Arceus with a new installment in the Legends series, rumored to be Pokémon Legends: Z-A (working title) in 2025. While not officially confirmed at the time of writing, industry insiders and the pattern of releases strongly suggest a late 2025 window for the next big Pokémon adventure. If Arceus was about exploring Sinnoh’s past (Hisui region), the speculation is that Legends: Z-A could explore the origins of another region – possibly Unova or Kalos – with “Z-A” hinting at Zygarde (a Pokémon associated with order/chaos in Kalos) or a play on going backwards (Arceus is the beginning, Z-A going reverse). Regardless of theme, what makes this title one of the upcoming games to watch is the likely gameplay approach: Arceus introduced open-world (or semi-open world) areas and real-time Pokémon catching/battling that felt fresh and immersive. Fans are eager for a next iteration that refines graphics and adds more depth – perhaps a true open-world seamless region on the new Switch 2 hardware, given a Switch 2 is referenced for 2025. We expect a variety of Pokémon from various generations roaming free to encounter organically, more dynamic weather and maybe even multiplayer co-op exploration (imagine teaming up with a friend to tackle an Alpha Pokémon). The title Legends signals a focus on lore and mythology of the Pokémon world, so get ready to possibly encounter legendary Pokémon in their ancient forms and uncover stories behind their legends. If Game Freak delivers on fan hopes, Pokémon Legends: Z-A could be one of the best video games 2025 for Switch players, blending nostalgia for classic Pokémon with the excitement of modern gameplay innovation. Watch for a reveal possibly mid-year – a game trailer that shows a trainer stealth-crawling in tall grass before launching a partner Pokémon into battle under a vast sky would certainly send Poké-fans into a frenzy.

Mini-FAQ:

Q: Which upcoming games in 2025 are platform exclusives and which are multi-platform?
A: Based on what we know: Hollow Knight: Silksong will be on PC, Switch, and likely PlayStation/Xbox (multi-platform). Monster Hunter Wilds should be multi-platform (PC/PS5/XSX). Civilization VII will hit PC primarily, possibly consoles too if they do a port, but strategy games usually prioritize PC. Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater – likely multiplatform (PS5, Xbox, PC) given Konami’s recent approach. Borderlands 4 – multi-platform (PS5/XSX/PC). Ghost of Yōtei – this is a Sony first-party title, so it will be a PS5 exclusive (at least at launch). Death Stranding 2 – console exclusive to PS5 (published by Sony) with a PC release probably 6-12 months later (similar to DS1). The Outer Worlds 2 – this one is published by Xbox Game Studios now, so it will be exclusive to Xbox Series X|S and PC (and on Game Pass). Battlefield 6 – multi-platform (PS5/XSX/PC; no old-gen likely). Pokémon Legends: Z-A – as a Pokémon title, it’ll be exclusive to Nintendo hardware (Switch or Switch 2). Always double-check closer to release, but these are the expectations.

Q: What trends are we seeing in the gaming industry 2025 based on these titles?
A: A few trends stand out. Open-world and exploration are big: many of these top games (Silksong’s expansive levels, Monster Hunter’s open zones, Ghost of Yōtei’s open world, Pokémon Legends, etc.) emphasize giving players large areas to explore. Nostalgia and revivals are another trend: remakes (MGS Snake Eater), long-awaited sequels (Civ VII after many years, Borderlands 4, a new Battlefield) and legacy franchise entries (Pokémon, Metal Gear) show the industry leveraging beloved IP. Technical advancements: games like Battlefield 6 and Next-gen open worlds will push new console capabilities (bigger player counts, better AI, more detailed environments). Also, player choice and sandbox elements: Outer Worlds 2 and Civ VII, for example, highlight giving players control over story or simulation. Lastly, we see that cross-platform and services (Outer Worlds 2 on Game Pass, for instance) remain key, as companies aim to reach wide audiences. Overall, 2025’s lineup suggests a year of both innovation (new gameplay styles in familiar franchises) and celebration of what gamers already love (refined sequels and remakes).

Q: Any highly anticipated games that might slip into 2026 we should be aware of?
A: Release dates can change. From this list, Hollow Knight: Silksong has been delayed before, but the date looks firm now. Monster Hunter Wilds and Civ VII likely on track. MGS Δ could potentially slip if development issues arise – remakes can be tricky, but late 2025 seems doable. Borderlands 4 and Ghost of Yōtei are from big publishers that generally hit targets, but if anything, Ghost of Yōtei might move if more polish is needed. Death Stranding 2 – Kojima works at his own pace; however, since they revealed a specific date (June 2025), that implies confidence. Outer Worlds 2 – no exact date given publicly, but internal targets say late 2025; if there are delays, it could push to 2026. Battlefield 6 – EA would want it out for holiday 2025; they might delay only if absolutely necessary to avoid a repeat of 2042’s issues. Pokémon Legends: Z-A – if it exists, The Pokémon Company usually sticks to their release schedules (they like annual big releases), so holiday 2025 is likely. In summary, always expect a couple of delays in a slate this full, but also surprises (games not yet announced could appear in late 2025). Keep an eye on summer gaming events in 2025 for updated timelines.

Q: How can I watch the latest game trailers and updates for these titles?
A: There are a few key ways. Subscribe to official YouTube channels for the publishers/developers (e.g., the PlayStation channel for Ghost of Yōtei, Xbox channel for Outer Worlds 2, Capcom for Monster Hunter, etc.). They’ll post trailers and developer update videos. Additionally, tune into major gaming industry events: E3 (if it happens in 2025), Summer Game Fest, Gamescom, Tokyo Game Show, and The Game Awards – these often feature world-premiere trailers. Social media is useful too: follow the games’ official Twitter accounts or community Reddit threads for news. Many media outlets (IGN, GameSpot, etc.) will compile trailers and do breakdowns. For instance, when the first gameplay of Civilization VII drops, you can bet IGN will have a video analysis up within hours. If you’re specifically interested in a title like Battlefield 6, keep an eye out for EA’s own event (they often do EA Play around E3 time). In short, staying plugged into gaming news via YouTube, Twitch streams of events, and following game journalists on Twitter will ensure you don’t miss any exciting game trailers or announcements about these top games of 2025.

Q: What about VR or other platforms – any notable games in 2025 in those areas?
A: The list we discussed is primarily traditional PC/console games. In VR, 2025 might see some cool titles too (not covered above). For example, with PSVR 2 gaining traction, perhaps a big VR exclusive or two (there are rumors of a Half-Life: Alyx coming to PSVR2 or new Astro Bot). Also, keep an eye on Meta’s Quest platform or Apple’s potential AR/VR device – but those tend to have separate lineups. Mobile gaming will continue strong as well, but the focus here was on core games. Notably, Hollow Knight: Silksong likely will come to Switch 2 (Nintendo’s new hardware) and PC – showing even handheld platforms are getting these marquee titles. Cloud gaming isn’t producing exclusives per se, but you might play some of these via cloud on various devices. Overall, 2025’s biggest titles are largely on consoles and PC. VR remains a niche but growing space; if you’re a VR enthusiast, watch out for announcements at events like the Meta Connect or Sony’s State of Play for VR-specific content.

Conclusion:
From sweeping RPG adventures to adrenaline-fueled shooters and imaginative indie sequels, 2025 is set to deliver an incredible lineup of games. The best video games 2025 will offer something for everyone: epic stories, competitive multiplayer, rich strategy, and groundbreaking graphics. We’ve highlighted ten of the most exciting upcoming games to watch, but rest assured there are even more in the pipeline. The gaming industry is at a point where technology and creativity are combining to break new ground – and that means we gamers are in for a treat. So keep your rigs and consoles ready, and your eyes on those game trailers – 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year in gaming. Happy gaming, and see you on the leaderboards and in the forums discussing these amazing titles!

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Further Reading:

• AI & Tech News – The Rise of Gaming AI in 2025
• GameSpot – 2025 Upcoming Games Release Schedule GameSpot
• Polygon – The 50 Most Anticipated New Games of 2025 Polygon
• GamesRadar – Upcoming Xbox Series X Games for 2025 and Beyond GamesRadar+
• TheGamer – Video Game Release Date Calendar 2025 Gamerant