As you’ve just seen in the insightful video above, the gaming landscape of 2025 is poised to deliver an unprecedented array of titles that promise to redefine our expectations. For many gamers, the sheer volume of high-quality releases can make it challenging to decide where to invest their precious time and money. Identifying which games truly stand out amidst the hype, especially across diverse platforms like PS5, Xbox Series X, PC, and the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, becomes a crucial task for anyone looking to optimize their gaming experience for the year ahead.
Fortunately, navigating this exciting but crowded field doesn’t have to be a daunting challenge. This comprehensive guide serves as your essential roadmap to the top 10 best video games of 2025, offering deeper dives into the narratives, innovations, and potential impacts of these groundbreaking releases. We will explore how these upcoming PS5, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2 games are setting new benchmarks, from ultra-realistic RPGs to explosive multiplayer battles, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions about your next gaming adventure.
The Anticipation Builds: What Makes 2025 a Landmark Year for Gaming?
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental period for the video game industry, marked by a confluence of long-awaited sequels, ambitious new intellectual properties, and stunning remakes. This surge in high-profile releases can be attributed to several factors, including the maturation of current-generation hardware, allowing developers to push graphical and technical boundaries further than ever before. Furthermore, lessons learned from previous development cycles, coupled with advancements in game engines, are enabling studios to deliver more polished and expansive experiences. The lineup for 2025 showcases a robust mix of established franchises returning with significant innovations and new narratives eager to capture player imaginations, promising a diverse and thrilling year for gamers worldwide.
Industry analysts often point to a post-console launch cycle “sweet spot” where developers are fully comfortable with the hardware, leading to a spike in truly next-gen titles. This typically occurs several years into a console’s lifespan, and 2025 falls perfectly within this window for the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Moreover, the rumored release or significant presence of the Nintendo Switch 2 adds another layer of excitement, suggesting a potential paradigm shift in mobile and handheld gaming capabilities. The sheer breadth of genres represented, from historical RPGs to futuristic shooters, ensures that every player will find something tailored to their preferences among the best video games of 2025.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II — February 11th, 2025
Journey back to the tumultuous landscapes of 15th-century Bohemia in Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, an ultra-realistic RPG that promises an unparalleled immersion into medieval life. Following the critically acclaimed original, this sequel continues Henry’s gripping story, expanding on the intricate political landscape and brutal realities of the era. Warhorse Studios is renowned for its dedication to historical accuracy, meticulously crafting environments, weaponry, and combat systems that reflect genuine medieval practices. Players can anticipate a deep narrative experience, where choices carry significant weight and open-world exploration is seamlessly integrated with an engaging main quest, pushing the boundaries of historical RPGs.
The first installment garnered significant praise, achieving an 84% Metacritic score, largely due to its commitment to realism and robust RPG mechanics. For Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, expectations are high for even more breathtaking visuals and refined combat, further enhancing the authenticity that defines the series. The focus on realistic sword combat, where skill and strategy trump button mashing, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for those who appreciate a true-to-life medieval simulation. This game is poised to be a standout for PC and console players seeking an intellectually stimulating and historically rich adventure among the top games of 2025.
Avowed — February 18th, 2025
From the masterful storytellers at Obsidian Entertainment, Avowed steps into the vibrant and perilous world of Eora, a setting rich with lore from their Pillars of Eternity franchise. This fantasy RPG, often dubbed Obsidian’s answer to Skyrim, combines deep character customization with an emphasis on player choice and branching narratives. As a first-person adventure, it immerses players directly into a world teeming with magic, ancient ruins, and formidable creatures. Obsidian’s reputation for crafting intricate RPG systems and compelling dialogue ensures that Avowed will offer more than just combat; it will provide a narrative tapestry that adapts to every decision made.
Obsidian Entertainment has a celebrated history with RPGs, including titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds, both highly praised for their narrative depth and player agency. This expertise suggests Avowed will deliver a rich experience where players can truly sculpt their character and impact the world around them. Initial previews have hinted at diverse combat options, blending swordplay with powerful magical abilities, appealing to a broad spectrum of fantasy RPG enthusiasts. This highly anticipated title is set to be a significant addition to the Xbox and PC gaming libraries in 2025, solidifying its place among the must-play releases.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows — March 20th, 2025
Finally bringing the long-desired setting of feudal Japan to the forefront, Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a groundbreaking dual-protagonist system, allowing players to embody both a cunning shinobi and a formidable samurai. This innovative approach promises diverse gameplay experiences, switching between stealth-focused assassinations and direct, powerful katana duels. Ubisoft’s proprietary Anvil engine will bring this expansive open-world rendition of ancient Japan to life with stunning detail, from bustling Edo-period cities to serene bamboo forests. Fans can expect the signature parkour, historical intrigue, and fluid combat that have defined the Assassin’s Creed franchise for over a decade, but with a fresh cultural lens.
The Assassin’s Creed series has consistently evolved, with recent entries like Valhalla and Odyssey pushing the boundaries of open-world exploration and RPG mechanics. Shadows aims to build upon this legacy by incorporating authentic Japanese lore and combat styles. The promise of two distinct playstyles within a single narrative framework offers immense replayability and strategic depth, catering to both traditional stealth fans and those who prefer more direct engagement. This release is undoubtedly a flagship title for all major platforms – PS5, Xbox, and PC – and a major contender for one of the best video games of 2025, captivating millions with its historical adventure.
Doom: The Dark Ages — May 15th, 2025
The Doom Slayer returns, but not as we know him. Doom: The Dark Ages transports the iconic demon-slaying protagonist to a brutal medieval setting, infusing the fast-paced, visceral combat with a fresh aesthetic and an arsenal of new, era-appropriate weaponry. Id Software, a pioneer in the FPS genre, is set to redefine brutal combat once again, pitting players against monstrous bosses with an emphasis on aggressive, glory-kill mechanics. The introduction of weapons like a shield-saw hybrid suggests innovative ways to tear through hordes of demonic foes, blending defensive capabilities with destructive offensive power in unprecedented ways.
The recent Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal successfully revitalized the franchise, achieving widespread critical acclaim for their relentless action and innovative movement systems. With Doom: The Dark Ages, id Software is taking a bold creative risk, yet one that aligns with the series’ core philosophy of pushing boundaries. Early glimpses suggest a visual feast of gore and gothic horror, all rendered with id Tech’s signature optimization and graphical fidelity. This May 2025 release is poised to be a benchmark for intense FPS action across PS5, Xbox, and PC, cementing its place among the most anticipated and best video games of 2025 for adrenaline junkies.
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach — June 26th, 2025
Hideo Kojima’s unique vision expands with Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, a sequel that promises to delve deeper into its surreal storytelling, eerie landscapes, and mind-bending gameplay. Sam Bridges’ journey continues into uncharted territories, brimming with more mysteries, bizarre encounters, and the haunting beauty that characterized the first game. Kojima Productions is known for its cinematic presentation and experimental mechanics, consistently challenging conventional game design. Players can expect a further evolution of the “strand game” genre, where connections, isolation, and environmental traversal form the core of the experience.
The original Death Stranding, despite its divisive nature, sold over 5 million units globally by 2021, demonstrating a significant audience for its unique narrative and gameplay loop. Its narrative earned high praise, securing multiple Game of the Year awards for its innovative approach. With “On The Beach,” Kojima aims to build upon this foundation, delivering an even more ambitious and emotionally resonant narrative, expanding on the themes of connection in a fragmented world. This PS5 exclusive is a must-watch for players seeking a truly unparalleled and artistic gaming experience in mid-2025, solidifying its status as one of the most distinctive and best video games of 2025.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater — August 28th, 2025
Considered by many to be one of the greatest stealth games ever created, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is reborn with stunning next-generation graphics and updated gameplay mechanics. This faithful remake aims to honor Hideo Kojima’s original 2004 classic while enhancing the experience for modern audiences. Players will once again step into the boots of Naked Snake, embarking on his legendary jungle mission during the Cold War. The remake promises to meticulously recreate the iconic narrative, survival elements, and intricate stealth challenges that made the original a masterpiece, all with a new layer of visual fidelity and polished controls.
The original Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater holds a phenomenal 91% Metacritic score, praised for its innovative stealth, compelling story, and complex characters. Konami’s decision to remake this particular title signals a commitment to preserving its legacy while introducing it to a new generation of gamers. Fans are eagerly anticipating how the advanced capabilities of the PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC will elevate the jungle environments, animal hunting, and close-quarters combat. This August release is more than just a nostalgic trip; it’s an opportunity to re-experience a foundational piece of gaming history, making it one of the best video games of 2025.
Borderlands 4 — September 12th, 2025
Prepare for more chaotic humor, insane weaponry, and explosive co-op gameplay as Borderlands 4 makes its grand return. Gearbox Software’s beloved looter-shooter franchise is known for its distinctive cel-shaded art style, over-the-top characters, and billions of procedurally generated guns. This sequel promises to push the boundaries of mayhem even further, with new Vault Hunters, expanded skill trees, and undoubtedly even more ridiculous narrative twists. The core loop of shooting, looting, and leveling up with friends remains central, guaranteeing countless hours of high-octane action.
The Borderlands series has consistently delivered strong sales, with Borderlands 3 selling over 5 million units in its first five days alone, showcasing its massive appeal. Its unique blend of RPG progression and FPS combat, combined with a strong emphasis on cooperative play, has cultivated a loyal fanbase. For Borderlands 4, players can expect the signature irreverent humor and vibrant art direction to be fully intact, possibly introducing new planets to explore and even more customization options. This September release on PS5, Xbox, and PC is a definitive pick for fans of shared-world shooters and a guaranteed highlight among the best video games of 2025.
Battlefield 6 — October 10th, 2025
DICE and EA are gearing up to redefine online FPS competition with Battlefield 6, promising massive-scale warfare, unparalleled next-gen destruction, and colossal multiplayer battles. The Battlefield franchise has long been synonymous with large-scale military conflicts, featuring vehicles, environmental destruction, and class-based combat across sprawling maps. This latest installment aims to leverage the power of current-gen consoles and PC hardware to deliver an even more immersive and dynamic battlefield experience. The Frostbite engine, known for its graphical fidelity and destruction physics, is expected to reach new heights, making every explosion and collapsing building feel incredibly impactful.
Historically, Battlefield titles have been celebrated for their innovative multiplayer experiences, often outpacing competitors in map size and player count. The series has sold over 80 million copies worldwide since its inception, proving its consistent popularity. Battlefield 6 is anticipated to introduce new modes and enhance existing ones, perhaps with an even greater focus on team-based strategy and combined arms warfare. This October release is set to be a significant contender in the competitive online shooter market for PS5, Xbox, and PC, vying for the top spot among the best video games of 2025 for competitive players.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A — October 16th, 2025
Pokémon takes a bold new step with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, an open-world adventure set entirely within the futuristic Lumiose City. This highly anticipated title marks the return of Mega Evolutions, a fan-favorite mechanic that significantly boosts a Pokémon’s power and alters its appearance. Game Freak’s decision to focus on a single, expansive urban environment suggests a departure from traditional route-based exploration, offering a dense and intricately designed world to explore. The “Legends” moniker implies an innovative approach to gameplay, likely blending traditional Pokémon catching and battling with exploration and environmental interaction, similar to the critically acclaimed Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a massive success, selling over 6.5 million units in its first week, and was lauded for injecting fresh ideas into the long-running franchise. Z-A is expected to build on this success, offering a unique blend of urban exploration and classic Pokémon mechanics. The return of Mega Evolutions, first introduced in Pokémon X and Y (which sold over 16 million copies), is a significant draw, promising strategic depth and exciting new ways to utilize familiar Pokémon. This Nintendo Switch 2 title, releasing in October 2025, is poised to be one of the biggest Pokémon games in years and a major highlight among the best video games of 2025.
The Outer Worlds 2 — October 29th, 2025
Rounding out our list of the best video games of 2025 is Obsidian Entertainment’s highly anticipated sci-fi RPG sequel, The Outer Worlds 2. Building on the original’s charm, witty dialogue, and satirical take on corporate capitalism, this installment promises expanded space exploration and even more branching paths. Players can expect a fresh cast of companions, new planets to discover, and an enhanced combat system, all while retaining the distinctive narrative choices that Obsidian is celebrated for. The series’ strength lies in its ability to offer genuine player agency, allowing different playstyles and ethical decisions to truly shape the unfolding story.
The first Outer Worlds was a critical darling, earning an 85% Metacritic score and praised for its smart writing and engaging RPG mechanics. Its success demonstrated a strong demand for classic-style RPGs with a modern twist. For the sequel, Obsidian is likely to refine the core gameplay loops while offering a grander scale of exploration and even more intricate faction dynamics. This October 2025 release on Xbox and PC is set to continue the legacy of choice-driven narratives and will undoubtedly be a top contender for RPG enthusiasts seeking a rich, humorous, and thought-provoking adventure among the best video games of 2025.
