The Xbox Series X/S is gearing up for an exhilarating 2025, packed with a rich array of exclusive titles and cross-platform releases. From blockbuster AAA adventures to innovative indie offerings, gamers will find a myriad of experiences waiting for them. As anticipation builds, players can look forward to a year filled with unforgettable gaming moments.
Before diving into the new releases, Xbox fans will still have plenty of remarkable games from 2024 to enjoy in the opening months of 2025. Yet, once they complete their backlogs, Xbox users will finally get their hands on some of the most eagerly awaited titles. Fortunately, many of these games will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one, ensuring subscribers have much to look forward to.
10 Avowed (Obsidian Entertainment)
Releasing on February 18, 2025
Fans of RPGs can look forward to Avowed, the latest creation from Obsidian Entertainment, famed for titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds. Set in the same universe as the Pillars of Eternity series, Avowed shifts to a first-person perspective reminiscent of Skyrim, offering a unique standalone narrative.
Although there are connections to the Pillars games, new players can easily dive into Avowed without prior experience. Enthusiasts are already buzzing with excitement, especially since it will be one of the first exclusives for Xbox in 2025. Following some disappointing entries in the genre, Avowed promises to deliver a rich fantasy RPG experience that fans are eagerly anticipating.
9 Fable (Playground Games)
Expected Release: 2025
Fable has had a long journey, experiencing multiple delays, but it is finally set to release sometime in 2025. This installment aims to recapture the charm of its predecessors while introducing a fresh art style that is sure to impress fans who have waited 15 years since Fable 3.
This new chapter is crafted for players looking for an enchanting fantasy adventure, particularly following the release of Avowed. As another Xbox exclusive, Fable is expected to deliver an unforgettable experience in 2025, contributing to an already impressive lineup.
8 South of Midnight (Compulsion Games)
Scheduled for 2025
South of Midnight is a captivating third-person action-adventure game set in the richly layered folklore of the Deep South. Players will embody Hazel and explore vibrant environments brought to life through an art style reminiscent of the acclaimed Spider-Verse films.
The game is being developed by Compulsion Games, known for their unique title We Happy Few, and it promises a cinematic experience filled with narrative depth and stunning visuals. As an indie game, South of Midnight stands out among the major releases, showcasing a journey that will surely resonate with players in 2025.
7 The Outer Worlds 2 (Obsidian Entertainment)
Expected Release: 2025
Anticipation is high for The Outer Worlds 2, which will launch in 2025 and is also set to be available on PS5 from day one. Following a captivating trailer, the game has sparked interest among players who have high hopes for its improvements over the first installment. Offering an alternative for those who found Starfield lacking, it promises a humorous and choice-driven open-world sci-fi adventure.
This sequel will feature a wide array of worlds to explore and characters to encounter, albeit not as an exclusive title. Nevertheless, it represents Obsidian Entertainment’s impressive ability to deliver compelling narratives in a beautifully crafted universe.
6 DOOM: The Dark Ages (Id Software)
Anticipated Release: 2025
In DOOM: The Dark Ages, players will experience a thrilling return to the franchise’s origins, set against a medieval backdrop filled with cyborg dragons and classic DOOM weaponry. This prequel to 2016’s DOOM offers an engaging entry point for newcomers and veterans alike, expanding on the mythos behind the DOOM Slayer.
With exhilarating gameplay and fast-paced action, this installment seeks to attract both longtime fans and those new to the saga, ensuring a visceral experience that remains true to the franchise’s roots.
5 Gears of War: E-Day (The Coalition)
Expected Late 2025 Release
Gears of War: E-Day intends to dive into rich lore, chronicling the day the Locust Horde emerged, forcing characters Marcus and Dom into a fight for survival. Although it serves as a prequel, the game aims to address critiques of previous titles, promising a gripping narrative that could rival upcoming competitors in the genre.
By offering a fresh narrative perspective, Gears of War: E-Day is poised to engage players who have yearned for the series’ return after the events of Gears of War 5.
4 Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector (Jump Over The Age)
Launching January 31, 2025
Exclusively available on Xbox and PC, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector is set to release on January 31, 2025. As a sequel to the critically acclaimed Citizen Sleeper, it expands upon the original’s gameplay mechanics, including crew management and ship upgrades.
Indie enthusiasts will be thrilled, as the game promises compelling storytelling and elegant visuals, positioning it as a strong contender for indie game of the year.
3 Atomfall (Rebellion Developments)
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Atomfall is often referred to as “Fallout in Britain,”inviting players into a post-apocalyptic environment shaped by nuclear fallout. The game allows users to explore a beautifully rendered, yet perilous, English countryside, unraveling mysteries and crafting weapons for survival.
From the creators of the Sniper Elite and Zombie Army franchises, Atomfall promises an engaging narrative and player-driven exploration, making it a highly anticipated addition to the Xbox catalog in March 2025.
2 33 Immortals (Thunder Lotus Games)
Delayed to 2025
Originally slated for 2024, 33 Immortals has been postponed to 2025 by its developers at Thunder Lotus Games, known for their heartfelt title Spiritfarer. This innovative roguelike aims to redefine expectations within the genre.
With its stunning visuals and unique gameplay mechanics, 33 Immortals is positioned to be a standout title among Xbox’s impressive roster of indie games set for 2025.
1 Ark 2 (Studio Wildcard/Grove Street Games)
Projected for Early 2025
Ark 2, initially expected in 2024, has shifted to an early 2025 release. While this delay may be disheartening, it opens the door for an even more polished and expansive gaming experience. The sequel aims to improve upon its predecessor while providing a grander scope for players who are passionate about dinosaurs and survival gameplay.
Across the gaming landscape, 2025 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for Xbox Series X/S users. With a mix of epic new franchises, exciting indie titles, and returning classics, players will find ample content to engage with. As Xbox users prepare for this remarkable lineup, it’s clear that 2025 holds the potential to be one of the most memorable years in gaming history.
Source: Xbox/YouTube (1), (2)
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