Every year, gaming enthusiasts eagerly await new releases that promise to push boundaries, with new stories, and revolutionize gameplay mechanics. This year is no different, with some of the most exciting titles in recent memory set to drop across multiple genres and platforms. Here’s a look at the most anticipated game releases of the year and why they’ve captured the attention of gamers worldwide.
1. Starfield
Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Bethesda’s latest foray into open-world RPGs has been called “Skyrim in space,” and for good reason. Starfield promises an expansive galaxy with over a thousand planets to explore, each filled with quests, characters, and alien landscapes. The customization features in Starfield, from ship-building to character design, add layers of personalization that have fans buzzing with excitement. Set in an sci-fi universe, this game is shaping up to be an essential experience for RPG lovers.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Following the groundbreaking success of Breath of the Wild, Nintendo’s latest Zelda installment, Tears of the Kingdom, brings back the vast open world and innovative puzzle-solving with a new story and enhanced mechanics. Early glimpses reveal floating islands and vast vertical exploration, adding new depth to an already beloved formula. Fans are eager to see how Tears of the Kingdom builds upon its predecessor while delivering fresh adventures in Hyrule.
3. Final Fantasy XVI
Platform: PlayStation 5
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Final Fantasy XVI takes the iconic franchise back to its high-fantasy roots, with darker, more mature themes and a setting inspired by medieval Europe. With real-time combat, lush graphics, and a gripping political narrative, this installment stands out as one of the year’s most ambitious RPGs. Fans of the series are eager to see how Square Enix blends new gameplay mechanics with the deep storytelling that Final Fantasy is known for.
4. Hogwarts Legacy
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Hogwarts Legacy invites players to step into the magical world of Harry Potter like never before. Set in the 1800s, well before the events of the books and films, players can explore Hogwarts, brew potions, cast spells, and uncover secrets in an open-world format. Fans of the Wizarding World have long awaited an RPG set in this universe, and the anticipation for exploring the castle and surrounding areas freely is at an all-time high.
5. Diablo IV
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Blizzard’s dark, dungeon-crawling franchise returns with Diablo IV, bringing back classic hack-and-slash action with a modern twist. This installment promises a vast open-world format with dynamic events, PvP zones, and cross-play. The return to the series’ darker, gothic art style has fans excited, and early gameplay footage shows a refined, grittier experience that harkens back to the roots of the Diablo franchise.
6. Street Fighter 6
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Street Fighter 6 breathes new life into the iconic fighting game series, with an updated visual style, reworked mechanics, and exciting new characters. The game also introduces a unique “World Tour” mode, allowing players to explore a story-driven single-player experience in addition to the classic competitive fighting. Fighting game fans and newcomers alike are eager to experience the next evolution in Street Fighter.
7. Resident Evil 4 Remake
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Following the successful remakes of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3, Resident Evil 4 returns with completely overhauled graphics, mechanics, and gameplay improvements. Set in a creepy, rural Spanish village, the remake promises to deliver even more chills, and iconic moments with a fresh, modernized approach. Long-time fans of the series are eager to see how Capcom revitalizes one of the most beloved entries in the franchise.
8. Spider-Man 2
Platform: PlayStation 5
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Insomniac’s first Spider-Man game was a massive success, and the sequel aims to up the ante with the introduction of both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as playable characters. With an expanded world, new villains like Venom, and refined combat mechanics, Spider-Man 2 is set to be a high-octane experience that will delight Marvel fans and action gamers alike.
9. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is the follow-up to Jedi: Fallen Order, taking players on another adventure with Cal Kestis in the Star Wars universe. With enhanced combat, force powers, and a narrative that continues Cal’s journey, fans are to dive back into this story-rich action game. The blend of lightsaber combat, exploration, and storytelling has made Jedi: Survivor one of the most awaited games for Star Wars fans.
10. Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Release Date: This Year
Why We’re Excited: After years of expanding the series’ RPG elements, Assassin’s Creed Mirage returns to the series’ roots with a focus on stealth, parkour, and a more concise story set in the city of Baghdad. This installment promises a tighter, more focused experience that pays homage to the original games, making it a must-play for long-time fans of the series.