Gaming excitement is building as we approach several major releases in the coming months. The calendar is packed with titles across all platforms, from PlayStation and Xbox to Nintendo Switch and PC. You’ll find plenty of options whether you enjoy action adventures, role-playing games, or immersive open-world experiences.
With spring 2025 already here, many anticipated games are just days away from release. Fans have been following development updates, watching trailers, and participating in beta tests for some of these upcoming titles. The gaming industry continues to push technical boundaries with more realistic graphics and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Best Games Of The Month
April 2025 is shaping up to be a month full of standout games, with something for just about everyone. Whether you’re drawn to narrative adventures, strategic RPGs, or fast-paced heist games, this lineup has you covered.
South of Midnight
Release Date: April 8, 2025
Platforms: Windows, Xbox Series X/S
South of Midnight is an atmospheric action-adventure game that dives deep into Southern Gothic folklore. Set in a hauntingly beautiful, fictionalized version of the American Deep South, the game introduces Hazel, a young woman with the mystical ability to weave reality itself. Hazel’s journey leads her through eerie bayous, crumbling towns, and ghostly realms as she untangles a web of ancient magic and lost legends.
What makes South of Midnight stand out is its striking art style, blending stop-motion-inspired animation with a painterly aesthetic. Players can expect a world brimming with strange creatures drawn from local myths—everything from skeletal swamp beasts to twisted folklore spirits. Combat is tightly woven into the narrative, with Hazel using her weaving powers to manipulate enemies and the environment alike, creating dynamic and puzzle-like encounters that reward creativity. For fans of narrative-driven experiences with a distinctive visual identity, this is shaping up to be one of April’s most compelling releases.
Monaco 2
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
The original Monaco became a cult classic thanks to its slick heist mechanics and minimalist design. Monaco 2 brings that core formula into a modern era with fully realized 3D environments and a bold new art style. While it retains the top-down, isometric perspective that made its predecessor so readable during chaotic heists, it now employs a voxel-based art direction that adds depth and richness to the environments.
Procedurally generated levels ensure no two heists are ever quite the same. Players assemble a team from a roster of quirky specialists—each with unique skills that can be combined in clever ways. Whether you prefer silent infiltration, high-speed escapes, or causing total chaos, Monaco 2 accommodates it. With expanded co-op options and deeper stealth mechanics, it’s a must-play for anyone who loves a good caper.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Platforms: PlayStation 5
After its initial release on Xbox Series X/S and PC, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle finally makes its way to PlayStation 5 this April. This first-person action-adventure game puts players directly into the rugged boots of the legendary archaeologist. Set between the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade, the story takes Indiana Jones around the world—from the pyramids of Egypt to the snowy peaks of the Himalayas.
The game seamlessly blends cinematic storytelling with hands-on adventuring. Players will solve intricate environmental puzzles, use Indy’s iconic whip both in traversal and combat, and participate in pulse-pounding set pieces that feel ripped straight out of a classic film. The Great Circle is not just fan service; it’s a well-crafted adventure that captures the spirit of classic Indiana Jones while offering modern gameplay depth.
Rusty Rabbit
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch
From the creative mind of Bilibili and writer-director Aquiris, Rusty Rabbit is a charming, post-apocalyptic Metroidvania with a twist: you play as Stamp, a rabbit piloting a massive mech through the ruins of a world long gone. Don’t let the cute premise fool you—this game packs serious gameplay depth and emotional storytelling.
Stamp’s mission is personal: to find his lost daughter in a world that’s more machine than nature. The game mixes fast-paced exploration with customizable mech combat. Players can upgrade their suit with salvaged tech, unlocking new traversal methods and powerful weaponry. Rusty Rabbit’s blend of heartfelt narrative and crunchy, satisfying gameplay makes it one of April’s hidden gems, perfect for fans of Hollow Knight or Ori and the Will of the Wisps.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a turn-based RPG unlike anything else on the horizon. Set in an alternate Belle Époque era with a dark fantasy twist, the game follows a doomed expedition to stop a malevolent force known as the Paintress. Every year, the Paintress awakens and paints a new number into existence—erasing everyone of that age from the world. As the last survivors of age 33, your team sets out on a desperate mission to end the cycle.
The game combines the strategic depth of classic JRPGs with real-time, timing-based action mechanics. Players actively block, dodge, and unleash attacks during enemy turns, bringing an extra layer of engagement to battles. The world is breathtaking, filled with Art Nouveau architecture and surreal landscapes, underscored by a hauntingly beautiful score. Expedition 33 promises a story heavy with moral choices and consequences, perfect for fans of titles like Octopath Traveler and Bravely Default looking for something darker and more emotionally charged.
Other Great Games To Play That Are Already Released
Here are the hottest games right now that were recently released (or go back a few years) that you should try this April.
1: Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases coming your way. Set in feudal Japan, this game finally brings the series to a setting fans have requested for years.
Critics are already calling it the best installment in the series for a long time. The game introduces fresh ideas while maintaining the core elements that make Assassin’s Creed special.
You’ll experience gameplay that blends stealth and steel in a winning combination. The dual protagonist system lets you play as both Naoe and Yasuke, each with unique abilities and perspectives.
The open-world of feudal Japan has been crafted with stunning attention to detail. You’ll explore bustling villages, serene temples, and dangerous wilderness areas as you progress through the story.
Combat has received significant refinements, making your encounters more strategic and satisfying. The stealth mechanics have also been improved, giving you more options for tackling missions.
Reviews indicate this is the best Assassin’s Creed game in years, though some note it still carries a few issues from previous titles. The game manages to take two steps forward while occasionally stepping back.
You can expect a massive adventure with the depth and breadth typical of modern Assassin’s Creed titles, but with a sharper focus on what makes the series special.
2: Xenoblade Chronicles X Remastered
Xenoblade Chronicles X is making its triumphant return to modern consoles as one of the most anticipated releases. Originally a Wii U exclusive, this beloved RPG is finally accessible to a wider audience on the Nintendo Switch.
The Definitive Edition brings significant improvements to the game. Reviews have been extremely positive, with some outlets calling it one of the best Switch games of all time. The enhancements make it more approachable for newcomers while satisfying longtime fans.
You’ll experience one of the most impressive open-world RPGs ever created. The vast alien planet Mira offers incredible exploration opportunities, with stunning environments and remarkable creature designs. The remaster preserves this sense of discovery while making navigation more intuitive.
Combat has been refined in the Definitive Edition. The improvements address some of the original’s complexity without sacrificing depth, giving you a more balanced experience throughout your journey.
The mech (Skell) gameplay remains a highlight. Flying through Mira’s diverse landscapes feels better than ever with enhanced controls and visuals. Technical upgrades make this feature shine on the Switch hardware.
Many critics praise how the remaster justifies another playthrough even for those who completed the original. The quality-of-life changes and visual enhancements create what many consider the definitive way to experience this exceptional RPG.
3: Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered brings Aloy’s original adventure to modern hardware with significant visual upgrades. If you missed this title when it first released, now is the perfect time to experience this sci-fi RPG.
The remaster includes the base game and The Frozen Wilds expansion in one complete package. You’ll explore a vast post-apocalyptic world where mechanical beasts roam free and humanity lives in primitive tribes.
Visual improvements are immediately noticeable with enhanced character models, lighting effects, and environmental details. The game now looks closer to its sequel, Forbidden West, creating a more cohesive visual experience across the series.
Despite some mixed opinions about whether this remaster was necessary, the upgrade offers excellent value. If you already own the original, you can upgrade for just $10, which is incredible value considering the improvements.
The gameplay remains unchanged from the original. You’ll still hunt mechanical creatures, craft equipment, and uncover the mystery of what happened to civilization. Combat feels responsive and strategic as you target specific components on machines.
Critics have called this “the best version of a great sci-fi RPG.” For newcomers, you’re getting an excellent adventure with modern visuals. For returning players, the visual upgrades might be enough to justify another playthrough of Aloy’s first journey.
4: Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 has become one of the biggest gaming success stories of recent times. Since its launch, it has remained the best-selling premium game of 2024 even into 2025, showing incredible staying power.
When you join the fight for Super Earth, you’ll experience a thrilling multiplayer shooter that balances challenge and fun. The game started with just 20 developers but has since grown to a team over six times larger, allowing for constant updates and improvements.
The upcoming content shows the developers aren’t slowing down. You’ll soon be able to embrace your inner space cowboy with the next warbond, which includes a lever-action rifle to take down those pesky automatons.
Critics and players alike have praised Helldivers 2, with many calling it one of the best games to come out in 2024. The game continues to thrive in 2025 with its perfect blend of chaotic combat and strategic team play.
Helldivers 2 was even named Best Multiplayer Game of 2024 by PC Gamer, cementing its place as a must-play title. The democracy-spreading action shows no signs of slowing down.
You’ll find few multiplayer experiences as engaging and constantly evolving as Helldivers 2. Its community remains active and the developers continue adding new content regularly.
5: Stellar Blade
Stellar Blade is one of the most anticipated action RPGs heading to PlayStation 5. If you’re looking for a thrilling combat experience, this game should be on your radar. Originally set to release on April 26, 2024, as confirmed on the PlayStation store, it quickly gained attention from action game enthusiasts.
The game features impressive visuals that showcase the power of current-generation hardware. For PC gamers, there’s exciting news as Stellar Blade is coming to PC soon with NVIDIA DLSS support, which will enhance the graphical experience even further.
You might wonder what makes this game special among the crowded action RPG market. Many players who’ve experienced it rank it highly against other popular titles. Some gamers even consider it their favorite compared to games like FF7 Rebirth, Unicorn Overlord, and Dragon’s Dogma 2.
The success of Stellar Blade has already created buzz about potential sequels. The game has shown tremendous potential, with some fans already counting it among their most anticipated future sequels from 2024’s releases.
You’ll find the combat system particularly engaging, with fluid animations and challenging encounters. The post-apocalyptic setting provides a compelling backdrop for the action, blending science fiction elements with intense gameplay mechanics.
6: Rise of the Ronin
Rise of the Ronin is an action RPG set in Japan’s Edo era that deserves your attention. The game was originally a PlayStation 5 exclusive but has now made its way to PC, giving more players a chance to experience this adventure.
Players who enjoy the game have described it as one of the most underrated games they’ve played. You can feel the passion and artistry that went into creating this detailed world.
The combat system in Rise of the Ronin feels amazing to play. It combines elements from several popular games including Ghost of Tsushima, Nioh 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and even Elden Ring. This makes it a perfect “middle ground” game if you enjoy these titles.
The PC port released in March 2024 is priced at £40/$50. While it offers a new platform to experience the game, be aware that the PC version does have some technical issues.
You’ll find yourself immersed in a beautifully crafted historical Japan with engaging combat and storytelling. If you’re looking for an action RPG with depth and historical setting, Rise of the Ronin should be on your list of games to check out this year.
7: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is one of the standout games that has recently made its way to PC in early 2025. After its successful PlayStation 5 release, PC gamers can now experience this critically acclaimed adventure.
The game brings back both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, allowing you to play as both Spider-Men. You’ll swing through a beautifully rendered Marvel’s New York, tackling threats bigger than either hero could handle alone.
Spider-Man 2 was one of the best games released in its launch year, earning praise for its engaging story and stunning visuals. The exploration of the city offers countless hours of web-swinging fun.
Venom plays a significant role in this sequel, though you might find his playable section surprisingly brief. This tantalizing taste of controlling the symbiote leaves many players wanting more.
The game invites you to be greater together as you face new villains and challenges. The dual-protagonist approach adds fresh gameplay dynamics that build upon the foundation of the previous titles.
If you’re looking for an action-packed superhero experience with captivating storytelling, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 delivers on all fronts. The PC version joins the top Steam games of January 2025, making it accessible to a whole new audience of gamers.
8: God of War Ragnarök
God of War Ragnarök continues to stand out as one of the most anticipated gaming experiences, even after its initial release. Many players consider it the best PS5 game available so far, according to PlayStation fan votes.
If you’re new to the series, you should start with God of War (2018) before diving into Ragnarök. This approach gives you the necessary background to fully appreciate the story’s emotional depth and character development.
The game offers an immersive Norse mythology experience with stunning visuals and compelling combat. You’ll join Kratos and Atreus as they face the consequences of their actions from the previous game while confronting new divine threats.
Some players praise Ragnarök as the best game they’ve ever played, highlighting its storytelling and gameplay improvements. However, opinions vary, as others mention finding parts of the game less engaging than its predecessor.
Exciting news for current players: a free update is coming this month to celebrate the franchise’s 20th anniversary. The update includes new content like the Dark Odyssey Guardian Shield appearance.
Whether you enjoy action-adventure games with rich narratives or are simply looking for a visually stunning experience, God of War Ragnarök delivers an epic journey that pushes the boundaries of console gaming.
9: The Last of Us Part I
The Last of Us Part I is a remake that brings the beloved post-apocalyptic adventure to new heights. Completely rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s latest PS5 engine, this version offers stunning visual enhancements you won’t want to miss.
You’ll notice immediately how the enhanced visuals and lighting transform familiar environments. The atmospheric improvements and more intricate details make this the definitive way to experience Joel and Ellie’s journey.
The remake also features smarter enemies that provide a more challenging and immersive gameplay experience. These improvements make the tense encounters even more heart-pounding than you might remember.
Originally released for PlayStation 5 in September 2022, the game later came to Windows in March 2023. This wider availability means more players can experience this masterpiece.
Many critics consider The Last of Us to be one of the best games of all time, and this remake honors that legacy. The story remains as powerful as ever, with the technical improvements serving to enhance the emotional impact.
If you’ve never played The Last of Us before, this remake offers you the perfect entry point. And if you’re a returning fan, the visual and gameplay enhancements provide excellent reasons to revisit this gaming landmark.
10: Crystal of Fate
Crystals of Fate is an exciting addition to the upcoming game lineup that you won’t want to miss. This next-generation competitive collectible card game brings fresh ideas to the genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics.
Unlike traditional turn-based card games, Crystals of Fate introduces real-time simultaneous gameplay. This creates a more dynamic experience where you need to think and react quickly to your opponent’s moves.
The game features tactical battle maps that add another layer of strategy. You’ll need to consider not just your cards but also their positioning on the battlefield to gain advantages against your opponents.
Currently in Alpha testing, Crystals of Fate is being developed as a cross-platform strategic card battler by Skymarch Entertainment. This means you’ll be able to play across different devices when it fully launches.
What makes this game particularly interesting is its blockchain integration. The game is powered by Elysium and Myria, allowing for features like NFT cards that you can truly own, trade, and potentially earn from.
Recent events like the Dragon’s Challenge have shown the developers’ commitment to engaging content. The event ran from May 1-15, 2024 and rewarded top players with prizes including Epic Hero Packages.
If you enjoy esports and competitive card games with fast-paced gameplay, Crystals of Fate deserves a spot on your watchlist for upcoming games.
Emerging Trends in Game Development
The game development landscape is rapidly evolving with groundbreaking technologies and creative gameplay innovations that are reshaping player experiences. These advancements are not only changing how games are made but also how they’re enjoyed.
Technological Advances
Virtual and augmented reality are pushing the boundaries of immersion in upcoming titles. According to industry experts, VR, AR, and mixed reality technologies are bringing interactive games to the next level. You’ll soon experience more affordable headsets with improved performance that will make these technologies mainstream.
AI integration is revolutionizing game development. AI tools now help create realistic NPCs with dynamic personalities and generate vast game worlds in a fraction of the time it would take human designers. You can expect more responsive environments that adapt to your playstyle.
Cloud gaming continues to gain momentum, allowing you to play graphically intensive games on virtually any device. This technology eliminates the need for expensive hardware upgrades and makes high-end gaming more accessible.
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics
Cross-platform play has become a standard expectation rather than a luxury feature. You’ll find more games allowing seamless multiplayer experiences regardless of your preferred gaming device. This trend is breaking down barriers between player communities.
Player-driven narratives are becoming more sophisticated. Games are increasingly offering truly meaningful choices that significantly impact storylines, creating unique experiences for each player. Your decisions will matter more than ever.
Game developers are responding to shifting player preferences at the start of 2024, changing both what types of games are being made and how they’re developed. You’ll notice more titles focusing on collaborative experiences rather than purely competitive ones.
Procedural generation techniques have evolved to create more natural-feeling worlds. This allows developers to craft enormous, detailed environments that feel handcrafted despite being algorithmically generated.
Impact of Game Releases on the Industry
New game releases shape the gaming landscape through financial ripples and changing player preferences. These launches often determine which companies thrive and what gameplay trends dominate the market.
Economic Implications
Major game releases can dramatically boost publisher revenues, with more than half of a major game company’s revenue coming from the last quarter of the year. This explains why many AAA titles launch during holiday seasons when consumer spending peaks.
The industry is poised for significant growth in 2025 after two years of decline, according to predictions from advisory firms. When blockbuster titles succeed, they create job opportunities across development studios, marketing teams, and retail channels.
Successful launches also drive hardware sales, with console manufacturers often timing new systems around major game releases to maximize adoption rates. This symbiotic relationship between hardware and software creates economic waves throughout the tech sector.
Shifts in Consumer Preferences
Your gaming choices increasingly influence what developers create next. The 2025 gaming calendar is already packed with major titles designed to capture your attention based on previous spending patterns.
Games that introduce innovative mechanics or storytelling approaches often reset industry standards. When players embrace these innovations, competing studios quickly adopt similar features in their upcoming releases.
The gaming audience continues to expand through new releases that appeal to previously untapped demographics. This growth is partly driven by technological developments that make games more accessible across platforms.
Distribution methods are evolving rapidly, with many publishers experimenting with:
- Subscription-based models
- Free-to-play with microtransactions
- Cloud gaming accessibility
- Cross-platform compatibility
Your purchasing decisions directly influence which of these models will dominate the industry’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gamers have many questions about upcoming titles across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC platforms. Here’s what you need to know about the most anticipated games of 2025.
What are the top anticipated video game releases for 2025?
The gaming community is buzzing about Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which brings players to feudal Japan with dual protagonists. This highly anticipated title promises to blend stealth gameplay with an immersive historical setting.
Xenoblade Chronicles X Remastered is generating significant excitement among JRPG fans. The original was limited to the Wii U, so this remaster brings the expansive sci-fi adventure to a much wider audience.
Helldivers 2 continues to build hype with its cooperative gameplay and intense alien-fighting action. The sequel expands on the original’s democracy-spreading mayhem with enhanced visuals and gameplay mechanics.
Which new PS5 game releases should players look out for this year?
Stellar Blade stands out as one of the most impressive upcoming PS5 exclusives. This action-adventure title features fluid combat and a post-apocalyptic setting that takes full advantage of the PS5’s capabilities.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered brings Aloy’s original adventure to the PS5 with enhanced visuals and performance improvements. The remaster will introduce the beloved franchise to new players while giving veterans a reason to revisit the story.
Several third-party titles are also optimized specifically for PS5, offering features like adaptive trigger support and near-instant loading times.
What are the expected best selling games on Steam for 2025?
PC gamers can look forward to several major releases that are likely to dominate the Steam charts. Helldivers 2 has already shown impressive numbers and continues to build a dedicated community of players.
Several anticipated titles announced last year are expected to perform strongly on Steam, including various indie breakouts and AAA releases.
Cross-platform titles with strong modding support tend to have staying power on Steam, so watch for games that embrace the PC gaming community’s creativity.
What are the most awaited Xbox games scheduled for release in 2025?
Xbox players have several exciting titles to look forward to in 2025. While specific exclusives are still being announced, the platform will receive most major third-party releases.
The latest entries in popular franchises will be optimized for Xbox Series X|S, taking advantage of features like Quick Resume and enhanced frame rates.
Many games will also be available on Game Pass at launch, making Xbox an attractive platform for budget-conscious gamers wanting to experience new releases.
Can you provide a list of the upcoming titles for major gaming platforms this year?
PlayStation 5: Stellar Blade, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and several third-party titles with PS5-specific enhancements.
Xbox Series X|S: Major third-party releases plus Game Pass additions throughout the year.
Nintendo Switch: Xenoblade Chronicles X Remastered leads the lineup alongside other first and third-party offerings.
PC: Helldivers 2, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, plus countless indie gems across Steam, Epic Games Store, and other platforms.
Which game releases are predicted to dominate sales charts in 2025?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is positioned to be a commercial powerhouse given the franchise’s historical performance and the highly requested Japanese setting.
Helldivers 2 has already shown impressive momentum and could maintain strong sales throughout 2025 with its engaging cooperative gameplay.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will likely perform well by capitalizing on the franchise’s established fanbase and bringing in new players ahead of future installments.
Mafia: The Old Country is generating significant buzz following its reveal and could be a surprise hit based on early impressions.
