Eleven Must-Play Games to Start Your 2025 – PlayStation.Blog

Can you believe we’re already wrapping up 2024? It’s true what they say—time really does fly when you’re having a good time. This year has been a whirlwind of fantastic gaming adventures. We were treated to stellar RPGs like "Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" and "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth," we dived into the chaotic multiplayer action of "Helldivers II," and marveled at the stunning combat in "Stellar Blade." There was also a nostalgic return with "Astro Bot" and revisiting classic titles like "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" and "Silent Hill 2." But as another year begins, fresh gaming experiences are on the horizon, and the start of 2025 is already packed with exciting new titles. Let’s dive into what awaits us in the gaming world in the coming months.

Don’t forget, these release dates can shift around a bit!

"Dynasty Warriors: Origins" reignites the famed Three Kingdoms narrative with unmatched ambition, taking players back to the beginning. As a new martial artist hero enters the scene, you’ll meet iconic figures like Guan Yu and Zhang Jiao against a backdrop of historic upheavals. It boasts the most intricately detailed battlefields yet, teeming with soldiers to defeat using a blend of combat prowess and strategic acumen. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran, "Origins" is set to surprise and excite with its compelling storyline and dynamic action.
Publisher: Koei Tecmo | Developer: Omega Force | Available on PS5

In "Echo of Ada," you’ll experience a captivating mix of mecha combat and exploration in a post-apocalyptic world that’s both beautiful and perilous. The story unfolds in the "Synduality: Noir" universe, where humanity clings to existence in small clusters, threatened by deadly rainfall and the creatures it brings. Players step into the role of an apprentice Drifter, operating a mech known as a Cradlecoffin, alongside a powerful AI ally called a Magus. Your mission is to gather essential energy sources, battling fierce Ender creatures and other players with customized mechas and the tactical prowess offered by Magus.
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment | Developer: Game Studio | Available on PS5

Marvel fans, rejoice! "Marvel’s Spider-Man 2" is making its way to PCs at the start of next year. The game offers an exhilarating open-world adventure across New York City, featuring Peter Parker and Miles Morales, both donning their iconic Spider suits. With an array of skills, gadgets, and the fan-favorite symbiote suit, they’re set against Kraven and his gang of Hunters in this web-slinging escapade.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Insomniac Games | Available on PC

The iconic "Civilization" series makes its much-anticipated return with a fresh installment. Dive deep into the strategy of growing your chosen civilization through distinct historical eras—Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern—each offering unique gameplay elements and playable civilizations. Navigate complex crises to evolve your society into a world-renowned culture. The game’s leaders allow players to either adhere to history or venture into imaginative alternative scenarios, offering endless strategic possibilities.
Publisher: 2K | Developer: Firaxis Games | Available on PS5, PS4

A storied gaming saga returns with a novel setting in Medieval Japan in a highly anticipated release. Players will take on dual roles, inhabiting the lives of Naoe, a skilled ninja, and the samurai Yasuke. In this ever-shifting open world, navigate between alliances and adversaries while embarking on quests and unearthing secrets. Utilize stealth, new tactical tools, and traditional weaponry, where your strategic prowess and combat skill will be tested in equal measure.
Publisher: Ubisoft | Developer: Ubisoft | Available on PS5

Lara Croft steps back into the light with a fresh remix of classic "Tomb Raider" adventures. Remasters of "The Last Revelation," "Chronicles," and "Angel of Darkness" bring enhanced graphics and a choice of control schemes, allowing both longtime fans and newcomers to explore Lara’s journeys anew. A new photo mode adds an opportunity to capture and showcase the iconic adventurer in all-new styles and settings.
Publisher: Aspyr | Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Available on PS5, PS4

In the ongoing saga of "Like a Dragon," prepare for a hilariously unique turn. Goro Majima finds himself stranded on a distant island, emerging with no memories and a fresh path as a swashbuckling rogue. Despite this change, he remains essentially the wild character beloved by fans. Expect epic brawls on land and sea with Majima’s distinctive combat styles while engaging in the series’ trademark mini-games and karaoke extravaganzas.
Publisher: Sega | Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio | Available on PS5, PS4

Monster hunters, brace yourselves for the latest epic in the expansive universe of "Monster Hunter." The supposedly deserted Forbidden Lands call you into action after a young boy reports a monstrous rampage. Gather your gear, rally your allies, and set off on a thrilling hunt through these uncharted territories, whether you choose to venture alone or band together with friends online.
Publisher: Capcom | Developer: Capcom | Available on PS5

There’s nothing quite like gathering a crew of 107 comrades for a bold rebellion in "Suikoden I & II HD Remaster." This collection brings back two of the most celebrated RPG experiences from the original PlayStation era. These games weave tales of strife, growth, and camaraderie as you guide a humble gathering of rebels into a formidable faction, uniting the 108 Stars of Destiny to confront your adversaries.
Publisher: Konami | Developer: Konami | Available on PS5, PS4

Have you ever dreamt of losing yourself in the peaceful, everyday life of hobbits? "Tales of the Shire" offers just that, presenting a cozy life-sim experience set in the picturesque Shire. Immerse yourself in activities like fishing, farming, and cooking while embracing the warm company of hobbit neighbors and uncovering the gentle wonders of village life.
Publisher: Private Division | Developer: Weta Workshop | Available on PS5

Lastly, the legendary "Fatal Fury" fighting game franchise makes a grand comeback with "City of the Wolves." This entry boasts an exhilarating combat experience with a roster of classic and new fighters, including guest appearances from Street Fighter’s Ken and Chun-Li. The stunning new graphics and invigorated mechanics promise to captivate both long-time fans and those new to the series.
Publisher: SNK | Developer: SNK | Available on PS5, PS4

For more exciting releases slated for 2025, be sure to visit playstation.com.