The Most Anticipated Action Games of 2025: A Look at the Top 7 Titles
The gaming world is gearing up for an exhilarating 2025, with a slate of highly anticipated action games promising to redefine the genre. From long-awaited sequels like GTA VI to innovative new entries like Crimson Desert, these upcoming titles are set to deliver groundbreaking storytelling, stunning visuals, and refined gameplay mechanics. Let’s dive into the seven most exciting action games scheduled for release in 2025.
1. Grand Theft Auto VI
Few games have stirred as much anticipation as Grand Theft Auto VI. Crowned the “Most Anticipated Game” at The Game Awards 2024, Rockstar Games’ next masterpiece takes us back to a modern-day Vice City.
What We Know:
- Protagonist: Lucia, the franchise’s first female lead, shares the spotlight with her accomplice as they navigate a chaotic world of heists and action-packed drama.
- Highlights:
- Record-breaking trailer with over 200 million views.
- A blend of hyper-realistic visuals and classic GTA chaos.
- Release Date: Late 2025 for consoles, with a 2026 release for PC.
Fans of the GTA series are eagerly awaiting the immersive experience promised by Rockstar, combining innovative gameplay mechanics with the franchise’s signature satire and open-world exploration.
2. Crimson Desert
From the creators of Black Desert Online, Crimson Desert transports players to the divided continent of Pywel. Initially planned as a prequel to Black Desert, this standalone action RPG offers a gripping tale of betrayal, survival, and redemption.
What We Know:
- Protagonist: Kliff, a mercenary caught in the throes of a fractured land.
- Highlights:
- Powered by the cutting-edge BlackSpace Engine.
- High-profile showcase at The Game Awards 2024.
- Release Date: Late 2025.
With its stunning visuals and dynamic gameplay, Crimson Desert promises to be a landmark title in the action RPG genre.
3. Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom is back with another installment in its iconic franchise. Monster Hunter Wilds takes players to the Forbidden Lands, introducing new locations like the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest.
What We Know:
- Gameplay: Retains the franchise’s signature monster-hunting mechanics while adding exciting new challenges and areas to explore.
- Highlights:
- Successful beta with over 460,000 players.
- Cosmetic-only microtransactions for fair gameplay.
- Release Date: February 28, 2025.
Monster Hunter Wilds is poised to capture the hearts of both series veterans and newcomers with its blend of epic battles and exploration.
4. Ghost of Yōtei
A sequel to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yōtei shifts the action to 17th-century Hokkaido.
What We Know:
- Protagonist: Atsu, a female warrior adopting the Ghost persona.
- Highlights:
- Enhanced personal narrative with greater player agency.
- Inspired by Japan’s northern regions, with authentic soundscapes recorded in Shiretoko National Park.
- Release Date: 2025 (exact date TBD).
Exclusive to the PS5, this title promises a richly immersive experience steeped in Japanese history and folklore.
5. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
SEGA continues the Yakuza legacy with Like a Dragon: Pirate, a bold new chapter set in the Hawaiian Islands.
What We Know:
- Protagonist: Goro Majima leads a crew of pirates in search of treasure and lost memories.
- Highlights:
- Vibrant hub area called Madlantis.
- Unique additions like Minato Girls for expanded gameplay.
- Release Date: February 20, 2025.
With its mix of familiar Yakuza charm and fresh gameplay elements, this title is a must-play for fans of the series.
6. Dune: Awakening
Dune: Awakening is Funcom’s ambitious open-world survival MMO, set in the harsh deserts of Arrakis.
What We Know:
- Gameplay: Blends survival mechanics, base-building, and exploration while staying true to the lore of Frank Herbert’s universe.
- Highlights:
- Dodging colossal sandworms and surviving sandstorms.
- Deep RPG systems and crafting mechanics.
- Release Date: Early 2025.
Fans of the Dune saga will appreciate the game’s intricate balance of combat, exploration, and storytelling, set against the backdrop of one of science fiction’s most iconic worlds.
7. Borderlands 4
The next chapter in Gearbox Software’s beloved franchise, Borderlands 4, takes the series in a bold new direction.
What We Know:
- Protagonist: Kairos, one of four new Vault Hunters.
- Highlights:
- A darker, more mature narrative tone.
- Cross-play enabled from day one.
- Introduction of the new villain, the Timekeeper.
- Release Date: Late 2025.
After the monumental success of Borderlands 3, this sequel aims to refine the franchise while introducing new elements to keep fans engaged.
Why 2025 Is a Landmark Year for Action Games
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a golden year for action games. From long-awaited sequels to innovative new entries, these titles are pushing the boundaries of storytelling, visuals, and gameplay. Whether you’re a fan of open-world adventures, fast-paced combat, or immersive narratives, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Quick Summary of Release Dates:
| Game | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Grand Theft Auto VI | Late 2025 (consoles), 2026 (PC) |
| Crimson Desert | Late 2025 |
| Monster Hunter Wilds | February 28, 2025 |
| Ghost of Yōtei | 2025 (exact date TBD) |
| Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza | February 20, 2025 |
| Dune: Awakening | Early 2025 |
| Borderlands 4 | Late 2025 |
Conclusion
The countdown to 2025 has begun, and gamers worldwide are buzzing with excitement for these highly anticipated action games. From the gritty streets of Vice City in GTA VI to the sprawling deserts of Arrakis in Dune: Awakening, these titles are set to deliver unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to immerse yourself in the gaming adventures of 2025!