The 10 Most Anticipated Games of 2025: Release Dates, Leaks & What You Need to Know

2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in gaming history, with groundbreaking sequels, bold new IPs, and long-awaited returns of legendary franchises. From the neon-soaked streets of GTA 6’s Vice City to the feudal Japan of Assassin’s Creed Codename Red, this year’s lineup promises unparalleled immersion, innovation, and drama. Whether you’re a fan of deep RPGs like Avowed and The Elder Scrolls VI, high-octane shooters like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, or surreal adventures like Death Stranding 2, there’s something for every player.

In this definitive guide, we break down all 10 of 2025’s most searched games, including:

• Release windows and pre-order details
• Gameplay leaks and confirmed features
• System requirements for PC and consoles
• Why these titles are trending (and what fans are buzzing about)

Get ready to update your wishlists—here’s everything you need to know about the games that will dominate 2025.

1- Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) – The Most Anticipated Game of 2025

Latest News & Updates

Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) is Rockstar Games’ biggest release since GTA V (2013), and its late 2025 launch has dominated gaming headlines. After years of leaks, rumors, and official teasers, the hype is at an all-time high.

• Official Announcement & Trailer Breakdown
  • The first trailer (December 2023) confirmed Vice City’s return with a modern, expanded Florida-inspired setting.
  • Protagonists: A Bonnie & Clyde-style duo, Lucia (first female lead) and an unnamed male partner.
  • 2025 Release Window: Initially expected in 2024, delays pushed it to late 2025 (likely November).
• Recent Leaks & Rumors
  • Map Size: Potentially 2x larger than GTA V, including Everglades-style swamps and multiple cities.
  • Gameplay Mechanics:
    • Dynamic Heists (more planning options than GTA Online).
    • Improved NPC AI (realistic daily routines, reactive police).
    • Realistic Economy (property investments, stock market).

Gameplay Features & Innovations

1. Open-World Evolution
   • Living, Breathing Vice City: Day-night cycles affect NPC behavior (e.g., nightclubs packed at 2 AM).
   • Enterable Buildings: More interiors than ever (malls, hotels, strip clubs).
   • Wildlife & Random Events: Alligators in swamps, car chases, and street crimes.
2. Dual Protagonists
   • Switch between Lucia and her partner mid-mission (like GTA V but with deeper character arcs).
   • Branching Dialogue Choices (minor impact on story outcomes).
3. Next-Gen Graphics & Physics
   • Ray-traced lighting, hyper-realistic weather.
   • Enhanced Euphoria Physics (more brutal, realistic combat).

Pre-Order & Edition Details

• Standard Edition ($69.99)
  • Base game + pre-order bonus (e.g., in-game cash, exclusive vehicle).
• Deluxe Edition ($99.99)
  • Story mode DLC, weapon skins, early access to GTA Online updates.
• Collector’s Edition ($199+)
  • Physical map, art book, Lucia figurine (rumored).

System Requirements (Estimated for PC)

• Minimum:
  • RTX 2070 / Ryzen 5 3600 / 16GB RAM / 150GB SSD.
• Recommended (4K/60fps):
  • RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 5800X / 32GB RAM.

Why It’s Trending? Top Search Keywords

• “GTA 6 release date”
• “GTA 6 gameplay leaks”
• “GTA 6 pre-order bonus”
• “GTA 6 PC requirements”
• “Lucia GTA 6 backstory”

2- Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 – The Next Era of Warfare (2025)

Latest News & Official Reveal

Activision’s Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is set to redefine the franchise in 2025, continuing the iconic Black Ops subseries with a fresh narrative, cutting-edge gameplay, and next-gen enhancements.

• Release Date & Platforms
  • Expected November 2025 (following CoD’s annual release cycle).
  • Confirmed for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and possibly Nintendo Switch 2.
  • Day 1 on Game Pass? Microsoft’s Activision deal could mean Xbox Game Pass inclusion.
• Trailer & Setting
  • Cold War 2.0 Theme: Leaks suggest a 1990s-2000s timeline with covert ops, cyber warfare, and global conspiracies.
  • Return of Fan-Favorite Characters? Rumors point to Mason, Woods, or a new protagonist.

Gameplay Innovations & Modes

1. Campaign (Single-Player)
   • Non-Linear Missions: Player choices impact story outcomes (e.g., stealth vs. assault).
   • Real-Time Intel System: Hack devices mid-mission to uncover secrets.
2. Multiplayer (Competitive & Casual)
   • 16v16 “Warzone Tactical” Mode: Large-scale battles with vehicles and destructible environments.
   • Revamped Gunsmith 3.0: Deeper weapon customization (interchangeable ammo types, modular attachments).
   • AI-Enhanced Matchmaking: Reduced SBMM (Skill-Based Matchmaking) complaints.
3. Zombies (Treyarch’s Signature Mode)
   • Open-World Zombies Map: A single massive zone (no round-based segments).
   • New Enemy Types: Mutated Cold War experiments.

Pre-Order Bonuses & Editions

• Standard Edition ($69.99)
  • Base game + early beta access.
• Vault Edition ($99.99)
  • 4 Operator Skins, BlackCell Battle Pass Tier Skips, Zombies Blueprint.
• Collector’s Edition ($150+)
  • RC-XD Drone Replica, Steelbook Case, Exclusive Weapon Charm.

System Requirements (Estimated for PC)

• Minimum (1080p/60fps):
  • GTX 1660 / Ryzen 5 2600 / 12GB RAM / 175GB SSD.
• Recommended (1440p/120fps):
  • RTX 3060 Ti / Ryzen 7 5800X / 16GB RAM.

Why It’s Trending? Top Search Keywords

• “Black Ops 6 release date”
• “Is Black Ops 6 on Game Pass?”
• “Black Ops 6 Zombies leaks”
• “Black Ops 6 beta code”
• “Black Ops 6 campaign story”

3- Marvel’s Wolverine – The Brutal, Next-Gen X-Men Adventure (2025)

Latest Official Updates & Release Window

Insomniac Games, fresh off the success of Spider-Man 2, is bringing Wolverine to PS5 in a mature, visceral solo game set for Fall 2025.

• Trailer Breakdown & Confirmed Details:
  • M-Rating (Blood/Gore): First Marvel game with full dismemberment.
  • Setting: Madripoor (lawless island) + Canadian wilderness flashbacks.
  • Voice Actor: Troy Baker rumored as Logan (replacing Steve Blum).
• Recent Leaks:
  • Semi-Open World: Smaller zones than Spider-Man, but dense with brawler bars, Weapon X labs.
  • Nemesis System: Enemies remember fights (scars, cybernetic implants if they survive).

Gameplay & Combat – “Berserker Mode”

1. Brutal Real-Time Claw Combat
   • No Cooldowns: Chain slashes, grapples, and environmental kills (impaling foes on pipes).
   • Dynamic Gore: Wounds heal in real-time, leaving scars.
2. Stealth & Tracking
   • Enhanced Senses: Follow blood trails, overhear conversations.
   • Fear System: Enemies panic if you pick them off silently.
3. Progression & Upgrades
   • Weapon X Experiments: Unlock suppressed memories for new abilities.
   • Adamantium Rage: Temporary invincibility (shatters enemies).

Pre-Order & Editions

• Standard ($69.99): Base game + “Patch” skin (classic yellow suit).
• Adamantium Edition ($129.99): Steelbook, digital soundtrack, Weapon X Prototype Skin (chrome claws).

PS5 Tech Specs

• Required Storage: 90GB SSD.
• DualSense Features:
  • Resistance when claws extend.
  • Haptic feedback for bone breaks.

Top Search Keywords

• “Marvel’s Wolverine release date”
• “Is Wolverine open world?”
• “Wolverine PS5 exclusivity”
• “Wolverine gameplay leaks”
• “Wolverine vs. Sabretooth boss fight”

4- The Elder Scrolls VI – Bethesda’s Next Fantasy Epic (2025)

Latest News & Development Updates

After years of teases, The Elder Scrolls VI is finally shaping up for a potential late 2025 release, marking the first mainline entry since Skyrim (2011).

• Official Teaser & Location:
  • Confirmed Setting: Hammerfell (home of the Redguards) + High Rock (leaked via Bethesda art).
  • Trailer Hints: Desert dunes, ancient Yokudan ruins, and sailing ships.
• Recent Leaks & Rumors:
  • Dynamic Factions: Join warring noble houses or pirate fleets.
  • Spell Crafting Returns: Mix magic effects like Morrowind.
  • No Level Scaling: Enemies have fixed strength (like Oblivion).

Gameplay & New Features

1. Revamped Combat System
   • Active Blocking/Parrying: Dark Souls-like precision.
   • Dual-Wielding Any Combination: Spell + sword, two shields, etc.
2. Truly Open World
   • No Invisible Walls: Climb mountains freely (procedural animations).
   • Procedural Quests: Radiant AI generates unique side stories.
3. Survival Mechanics (Optional)
   • Camping, Diseases, Hunger – Hardcore mode toggle.

Pre-Order & Editions

• Standard ($69.99): Base game + pre-order bonus (exclusive Redguard armor).
• Collector’s ($199): Physical map, Dwarven Puzzle Cube replica.

Estimated System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: RTX 3060 / Ryzen 5 5600X / 16GB RAM / 150GB SSD.
• Recommended (4K): RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 7800X3D.

Top Search Keywords

• “TES 6 release date”
• “Elder Scrolls 6 location”
• “TES 6 gameplay leaks”
• “Will TES 6 be on PS5?”
• “Elder Scrolls 6 vs Starfield”

5- Starfield: Shattered Space – Bethesda’s Expansive Cosmic Odyssey (2025)

Latest News & Expansion Overview

Starfield: Shattered Space is Bethesda’s first major story expansion, set to launch in mid-2025, promising to deepen the game’s lore, mechanics, and interstellar exploration.

• Official Announcement:
  • Takes players to the Va’ruun homeworld, revealing the mysterious House Va’ruun’s secrets.
  • Introduces new factions, weapons, and a darker storyline with moral choices.
• Leaked Features:
  • Gravity-Warping Mechanics: Manipulate physics in zero-G combat.
  • New Starborn Powers: Time-bending abilities tied to the expansion’s story.

Gameplay Additions & Improvements

1. Expanded Star Systems
   • 2 New Systems: Including a black hole zone with extreme environmental hazards.
   • Derelict Space Stations: Fully explorable with horror-themed quests.
2. Ship Customization Overhaul
   • Modular Living Quarters: Add bars, gardens, or labs to your vessel.
   • Va’ruun-inspired Ship Designs: Organic, serpentine aesthetics.
3. Revamped Combat
   • Melee Weapon Types: Energy whips, dual-wielded vibro-blades.
   • Enemy Variety: Bio-engineered Va’ruun creatures.

Pricing & Editions

• Standalone DLC ($39.99): Requires base Starfield.
• Deluxe Bundle ($79.99): Includes Shattered Space, future DLCs, and exclusive armor sets.

System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: RTX 2070 / Ryzen 5 3600 / 16GB RAM (+20GB SSD space).
• Recommended (4K): RTX 3080 / Ryzen 7 5800X3D.

Top Search Keywords

• “Starfield DLC release date”
• “Shattered Space new planets”
• “Va’ruun faction lore”
• “Starfield expansion gameplay”
• “Best Starfield DLC weapons”

6- Assassin’s Creed Codename Red – Feudal Japan’s Bloody Shadows (2025)

Latest Official Reveals & Setting

Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Codename Red is the franchise’s first full-scale Japanese entry, launching in Q4 2025 as part of the Infinity Hub.

• Dual Protagonists Confirmed:
  • African Samurai Yasuke (historical figure) – Heavy combat focus.
  • Shinobi Female Lead (rumored name: Naoe) – Stealth/assassinations.
• Recent Leaks:
  • Map Size: Larger than Valhalla, spanning Kyoto, Edo, and rural provinces.
  • Dynamic Seasons: Cherry blossoms in spring, monsoons in summer affect gameplay.

Gameplay Innovations – “Shinobi vs. Samurai”

1. Revamped Parkour
   • Traditional Japanese Architecture: Slide under shoji screens, vault over torii gates.
   • Grapnel Hook: Sekiro-inspired verticality.
2. Combat Overhaul
   • Stance System: Switch between Kenjutsu (sword) and Ninjutsu (tools).
   • Gore Physics: Decapitations, dismemberment (optional toggle).
3. Spy Network Mechanics
   • Recruit NPCs: Geisha, merchants, or ronin as informants.
   • Sabotage Enemy Strongholds before attacking.

Pre-Order & Editions

• Standard ($69.99): Base game + Golden Oni Armor.
• Collector’s ($199): Yasuke Statue, steelbook, katana letter opener.

System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: RTX 2060 / Ryzen 5 3600 / 16GB RAM / 150GB SSD.
• Ultra (4K): RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 7800X3D.

Top Search Keywords

• “Assassin’s Creed Japan release date”
• “AC Red dual protagonists”
• “Yasuke historical accuracy”
• “AC Red gameplay leaks”
• “Feudal Japan map size”

7- EA Sports FC 26 – The Future of Football Gaming (2025)

Latest News & Evolution from FIFA

With the FIFA branding gone, EA Sports FC 26 (releasing September 2025) pushes the series forward with groundbreaking tech and realism.

• Confirmed Features:
  • Hypermotion V: Player movements captured from real UEFA Champions League matches.
  • Women’s Career Mode: Manage clubs like Chelsea Females or OL Reign.
• Leaked Innovations:
  • Dynamic Weather Impact: Rain slows passes, heat affects stamina.
  • AI Managers: CPU-controlled teams adapt tactics mid-season.

Gameplay Revolution – “True Player Intelligence”

1. Next-Gen Physics
   • Contextual Ball Control: First touch varies by player skill (Haaland vs. Messi).
   • Collision System 2.0: No more “ghost tackles” – injuries possible.
2. Tactical Depth
   • Create Custom Set Pieces: Design free-kick routines in practice mode.
   • Position Fluidity: Full-backs convert to wingers mid-game (like Guardiola’s tactics).
3. Cross-Play & eSports
   • Unified Pro Clubs: PS5/Xbox/PC players on one server.
   • FC Pro World Cup: $2M prize pool for esports.

Editions & Pricing

• Standard ($69.99): 3-day early access + FUT loan icons.
• Ultimate ($149.99): Year of EA Play Pro, 10,000 FC Points.

System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: GTX 1660 / i5-9400F / 12GB RAM.
• Ultra (120fps): RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 5800X3D.

Top Search Keywords

• “EA Sports FC 26 release date”
• “FC 26 new features”
• “Women’s career mode FC 26”
• “Best FUT tactics FC 26”
• “FC 26 vs FIFA 25 comparison”

8- Monster Hunter Wilds – The Next Evolution of Hunting (2025)

Latest News & Release Updates

Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds is set to redefine the franchise in early 2025, introducing a seamless open world, advanced creature AI, and next-gen visuals.

• Confirmed Features:
  • No More Loading Zones: Fully connected ecosystems with dynamic weather events (sandstorms, monsoons).
  • Mountable Monsters: Temporarily tame and ride certain creatures for traversal/combat.
• Leaked Details:
  • “Elder Dragons 2.0”: New classification for world-ending threats (e.g., a storm-summoning serpent).
  • Cross-Platform Play: Hunt with friends on PS5, Xbox, and PC simultaneously.

Gameplay Innovations – “Living Hunts”

1. Ecosystem Simulation
   • Monster Territories Shift: Herd migrations affect resource availability.
   • Predator/Prey Chains: Watch weaker monsters get hunted mid-quest.
2. Weapon Mastery System
   • Switch Skills 2.0: Custom combo paths per weapon (e.g., charge blade morphs into dual blades).
   • Clutch Claw Replacement: New “Slinger Grapple” for aerial attacks.
3. Camp Life Expanded
   • Craft While Moving: Forge gear on your rideable monster.
   • Hunter Hub Town: Persistent online hub with minigames.

Pre-Order Bonuses

• Deluxe Edition ($79.99): Palamute “Cerberus” armor, exclusive emotes.
• Collector’s ($249): 12-inch Rathalos statue with LED fire effects.

System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: RTX 2060 / Ryzen 5 3600 / 16GB RAM.
• Ideal (4K/60fps): RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 7800X3D.

Top Search Keywords

• “Monster Hunter Wilds release date”
• “Wilds open world details”
• “New monsters list Wilds”
• “Crossplay MH Wilds”
• “Best weapon changes Wilds”

9- Death Stranding 2 – Kojima’s Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece Evolves (2025)

Latest Official Reveals & Story Teasers

Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding 2 (planned for Holiday 2025) expands the surreal courier saga with mind-bending new mechanics and A-list actors.

• Trailer Breakdown:
  • New Protagonist: Elle Fanning as a rogue “Drawbridge” agent.
  • Setting: Post-reconnection USA + South American rainforests with floating islands.
• Leaked Gameplay Details:
  • “Reverse Stranding”: Now deliver supplies from the afterlife (umbilical world-hopping).
  • AI Companions: NPC couriers dynamically assist or betray you.

Gameplay Revolution – “Social Strand System 2.0”

1. Multi-Dimensional Logistics
   • Quantum Warehouses: Store items across timelines.
   • Timefall Farms: Cultivate crops that grow in minutes.
2. Expanded Combat
   • B.T. Wrestling: Melee grab/throw mechanics against ghosts.
   • “Liquid Guns”: 3D-printed ammo from environmental materials.
3. Co-Op Innovations
   • Shared Bridge Cities: 50 players collaboratively rebuild settlements.
   • Asynchronous Espionage: Leave fake signs to mislead rivals.

Special Editions

• Director’s Cut ($79.99): Kojima commentary tracks, holographic map.
• Ludens Fan Edition ($299): 1:6 scale Die-Hardman helmet replica.

PS5 Pro Enhanced Features

• 8K “Photoreal” Mode: 30fps with raytraced timefall storms.
• DualSense Haptics: Feel BB’s cries through controller vibrations.

Top Search Keywords

• “Death Stranding 2 release date”
• “DS2 new gameplay mechanics”
• “Elle Fanning character explained”
• “How multiplayer works DS2”
• “Kojima DS2 interviews”

10- Avowed – Obsidian’s Dark Fantasy First-Person RPG (2025)

Latest News & World Reveal

Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed (targeting Fall 2025) brings Pillars of Eternity’s gritty lore into a Skyrim-sized first-person RPG, set in the war-torn Living Lands.

• Confirmed Features:
  • Dual-Wield Magic: Combine spells (freeze + fire = steam explosion).
  • Faction Warfare: Join the Aedyr Empire or anarchic Coastal Pirates.
• Leaked Gameplay Details:
  • No “Chosen One” Trope: Your actions define the story’s scale (local hero or warlord).
  • Dynamic Injuries: Broken limbs require potions or heal over time.

Gameplay Deep Dive – “Choice & Consequence 2.0”

1. Combat Philosophy
   • Spell Melee Hybrids: Staffs double as spears, chakrams recall like boomerangs.
   • Parry-Casting: Block attacks to charge instant spells.
2. Open Zone Design
   • No Map Markers: Navigate via landmarks and NPC directions.
   • Evolving Dungeons: Bandit camps become trader hubs if cleared.
3. Companion System
   • Permadeath Mode: Allies die permanently if downed in hardcore difficulty.
   • Romance Subplots: With faction-specific consequences.

Editions & Pre-Order Perks

• Standard ($69.99): Base game + Gilded Cutlass weapon.
• Worldbuilder’s Edition ($129): Physical cloth map, Gloomrot Bestiary artbook.

System Requirements (PC)

• Minimum: RTX 2060 / i5-10600K / 16GB RAM.
• Ultra (1440p): RTX 4070 / Ryzen 7 7700X.

Top Search Keywords

• “Avowed release date”
• “Avowed vs Skyrim comparison”
• “Pillars of Eternity connections”
• “Avowed class system”
• “Xbox exclusive Avowed?”