Unveiling the Top-Rated Xbox Games You Can’t Miss in 2025

So, 2025 is shaping up to be a pretty big year for Xbox gamers. I’ve been looking at what’s coming out, and honestly, there’s a lot to get excited about. From big sequels to completely new adventures, it feels like there’s something for everyone. It’s hard to keep track of it all, but I’ve pulled together a list of some of the top-rated Xbox games that you really shouldn’t miss. If you’re looking for your next gaming obsession, you might find it here.

Key Takeaways

• The Outer Worlds 2 is set to continue its unique RPG journey with new stories and worlds.
• Gears of War: Reloaded promises a definitive experience of the classic shooter with modern enhancements.
• Ninja Gaiden 4 is making a comeback, blending classic action with new characters and refined combat.
• Expedition 33 stands out as a unique turn-based RPG with impressive art and world design.
• Avowed offers a new RPG adventure set in a fantasy world from Obsidian Entertainment.

1. The Outer Worlds 2

Alright, let’s talk about The Outer Worlds 2. Obsidian is back with another space adventure, and this time they’re aiming to go even deeper than before. You’re stepping into the boots of a new Sky Marshal, tasked with exploring the uncharted colony of Arcadia. The big focus here seems to be on player choice and really letting you shape your character and their story. They’ve refined the skill system, making each point feel more impactful, and brought back the fun ‘dumb’ options in dialogue, which I always appreciate. Plus, the perk system, which they’ve apparently expanded on from Fallout: New Vegas, sounds like it could lead to some wild character builds.

Here’s a quick look at some of the character customization options:

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• Traits: These are major changes to your character, like ‘Brilliant’ for extra skill points or ‘Lucky’ for better critical chances. They’ve even brought back ‘Dumb’ for unique dialogue.
• Skills: Condensed to be more impactful, allowing for specialization in areas like stealth or explosives.
• Perks: Borrowed from the Fallout: New Vegas playbook, these offer specific bonuses and abilities, from pickpocketing to making melee attacks knock enemies down.

They’re also promising more integrated companion quests, with each companion tied to a different faction and having their own story arcs that you can influence. And don’t worry, the gunplay is getting a tune-up too, with improved weapon feel, recoil, and new weapon types, including some seriously quirky ones. Obsidian is calling this their biggest game ever, so expect a lot more to explore and interact with.

2. Gears of War: Reloaded

Alright, let’s talk about Gears of War: Reloaded. It feels like we’ve seen this game pop up a few times, but this latest version is aiming to be the ultimate way to play the original. They’ve really gone all out with the upgrades, packing in 4K resolution and a super smooth 120 FPS for multiplayer. This is the definitive Gears of War experience, no question.

They’re also making sure everyone can play together, with cross-play and cross-progression across all the platforms it’s launching on. Plus, you get all the DLC that came out after the initial release, which is a nice bonus. It’s set to hit Xbox Series X|S, PC, and even PlayStation 5 on August 26, 2025. If you’re a Game Pass member, you’re in luck because it’s available day one. There’s even a multiplayer beta kicking off in June for certain players, so keep an eye out for that if you want to jump in early.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Visuals: Upgraded to 4K resolution.
• Performance: Up to 120 FPS in multiplayer, 60 FPS in campaign.
• Connectivity: Cross-play and cross-progression are included.
• Content: All post-launch DLC is packed in.

3. Ninja Gaiden 4

Get ready, ninjas! The legendary franchise is back with Ninja Gaiden 4, and it looks like it’s going to be a wild ride. This time around, it’s a team-up between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, which is pretty exciting if you’re into fast-paced action. We’re getting a new main character, Yakumo, who seems to be a young ninja prodigy, but don’t worry, the classic hero Ryu Hayabusa is also making an appearance.

The game is set to drop us into demon-filled streets of Tokyo, and from what we’ve seen, the combat is going to be brutal and stylish. Think flashy combos, weapon switching on the fly, and those signature Ninpo arts we love.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Dual Protagonists: Play as both the energetic Yakumo and the seasoned Ryu Hayabusa.
• Intense Combat: Expect deep, fighting game-like mechanics with free-form combos and brutal finishers.
• New Weapons and Ninjutsu: A fresh arsenal and classic powers return to help you take down hordes of enemies.
• Epic Boss Battles: Prepare for challenging encounters against massive foes.

It’s slated for release on October 21st, so mark your calendars if you’re ready to embrace the path of the ninja.

4. Expedition 33

Okay, so Expedition 33. This one’s a bit of a surprise, right? It’s a turn-based RPG, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s just another one of those games. This is the debut title from Clair Obscur, and honestly, it’s shaping up to be something special. The art style is really striking, kind of dark and moody, and the music just fits perfectly. It feels like they put a lot of thought into the world they’ve built.

What really sets it apart is how they’ve mixed the turn-based combat with this really active, almost real-time feel. You’re not just sitting back and watching; you’re actively timing your attacks and dodges. It makes every fight feel more engaging, you know? Plus, the story seems pretty deep, dealing with some heavy themes about humanity and survival. It’s the kind of game that sticks with you after you put the controller down.

Here’s a quick look at what we know:

• Genre: Turn-based RPG
• Developer: Clair Obscur
• Key Feature: Unique blend of turn-based combat with active elements
• Setting: A world facing a grim future

It’s not often a new studio comes out with something this polished and original. Expedition 33 feels like it could be a real contender for game of the year, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how it all plays out.

5. Avowed

Alright, let’s talk about Avowed. This one’s from Obsidian Entertainment, the folks behind Fallout: New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity. It’s an action RPG set in the fantasy world of Eora, the same universe as Pillars of Eternity, but it’s a standalone story so you don’t need to have played those games. You play as a diplomat sent to investigate a mysterious plague that’s spreading across the Living Lands, a region caught between two warring empires.

The game lets you play either first-person or third-person, which is a nice touch for player preference. You can customize your character quite a bit, choosing your race, background, and skills. Combat feels pretty engaging, mixing melee, ranged attacks, and magic. It’s not a completely open world, but the areas are pretty large and packed with things to discover.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Setting: The Living Lands, a vibrant and dangerous frontier.
• Player Role: A diplomat investigating a mysterious plague.
• Gameplay: Action RPG with customizable characters and flexible combat.
• Perspective: Playable in first-person or third-person.

Obsidian really knows how to build a world, and Eora feels alive with its own history and conflicts. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a new RPG adventure. You can find more details about Avowed release and its features.

6. Elden Ring Nightreign – The Forsaken Hollows

Alright, Tarnished, gather ’round because FromSoftware isn’t done with us yet. Elden Ring Nightreign – The Forsaken Hollows is dropping in December 2025, and it’s not just a little bit of extra content; it sounds like a proper expansion. If you snagged the Deluxe or Collector’s Edition of the original Elden Ring Nightreign, you’re already covered. For the rest of us, it’s a separate purchase, but honestly, after the time I sunk into the first game, I’m already mentally preparing my wallet.

This new chunk of the Lands Between promises some serious additions. We’re talking about two brand-new characters to play as, which is always exciting for shaking up builds and strategies. And of course, no FromSoftware expansion is complete without some new bosses to absolutely wreck you. The mention of a ‘Shifting Earth’ sounds intriguing too – maybe some environmental changes or a new mechanic that messes with the familiar landscape? It’s hard to say for sure without more details, but you know it’s going to be challenging. I’m just hoping they don’t make the bosses too much harder than Malenia. My controller might not survive another round like that.

7. Terminator 2D: No Fate

Get ready to relive the iconic Terminator 2: Judgment Day, but this time, it’s a side-scrolling adventure! Terminator 2D: No Fate puts you in the boots of Sarah Connor and the T-800 as you fight against Skynet’s relentless machines. This game promises a faithful, action-packed journey through the classic movie’s story.

It’s not just about shooting; expect to take on various missions and face off against familiar foes. The developers are aiming to capture the gritty feel of the film, so expect a challenging experience.

Here’s a quick look at what we know:

• Playable Characters: Sarah Connor and the T-800
• Objective: Stop Skynet’s plans
• Genre: 2D Side-Scrolling Action
• Developer: Bitmap Bureau

While it’s not hitting Game Pass on day one, this is one for the fans of the original movie and classic side-scrolling action. It’s a neat way to revisit a beloved story with a fresh gameplay perspective.

8. Clockwork Revolution

Get ready for a wild ride with Clockwork Revolution, an RPG that really messes with time. You’re dropped into Avalon, a city that looks all fancy and steampunk, but it turns out the bigwigs have been messing with history to keep things just the way they like them. Naturally, you get your hands on some time-bending tech and decide to jump back and shake things up.

The game looks like it blends shooting with some cool time-manipulation abilities, kind of like a mix between Fallout and Dishonored, but with its own unique flavor. It’s a first-person perspective, so you’ll be right in the action. The trailer showed off some pretty intense combat scenarios where you can rewind time to dodge attacks or set up your next move.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:

• Setting: Steampunk metropolis of Avalon.
• Core Mechanic: Time travel to alter historical events.
• Gameplay: First-person RPG with shooting and unique time-bending powers.
• Developer: inXile Entertainment.

While there’s no exact release date yet, some whispers suggest we might see it sometime in 2026, which gives the developers plenty of time to polish this ambitious project. It’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you’re into games that let you play with history and enjoy a good steampunk aesthetic. You can expect it to be available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and likely on Game Pass day one, as is typical for inXile titles. Keep an eye out for more news on this intriguing time-bending RPG.

9. Marathon

Alright, let’s talk about Marathon. This one’s a bit of a throwback, but with a serious modern twist. Bungie, the folks behind Destiny and Halo, are bringing back this classic extraction shooter from the 90s. If you’re not familiar, extraction shooters are all about jumping into a dangerous zone, grabbing as much loot as you can, and then getting out before you lose it all. It’s a tense loop, for sure.

The trailer showed off some pretty slick visuals, with characters in bright suits running around with some cool-looking weapons. It feels like they’re aiming for a fast-paced, high-stakes experience. You’ll be teaming up with others, or maybe going solo, to explore these hostile environments, fight off enemies, and try to come out richer than you went in. It’s a genre that’s really taken off, and seeing Bungie put their spin on it is pretty interesting.

Here’s what we’re expecting:

• Intense PvPvE Action: Expect to face off against both AI-controlled enemies and other players who are all after the same valuable gear.
• Loot and Extraction: The core loop involves finding valuable items and successfully extracting them from the map. Dying means losing most of what you carried.
• Bungie’s Signature Polish: Given their history, we can anticipate solid gunplay, engaging level design, and a compelling atmosphere.

It’s slated for a 2025 release, and while we don’t have a firm date yet, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you enjoy a good challenge and the thrill of a risky payday.

10. High On Life 2

Alright, so remember that weirdly funny alien-shooting game, High On Life? Well, buckle up, because High On Life 2 is apparently on its way and it looks like Squanch Games is doubling down on the absurdity. This sequel promises even more bizarre weapons and the same kind of off-kilter humor that made the first one a bit of a cult hit. If you enjoyed blasting through enemies with talking guns that had more personality than most characters in other games, you’re probably going to find a lot to like here. They’re leaning into the momentum-based combat and those unique gun designs, so expect more of that fast-paced, slightly chaotic action. It’s also confirmed to be on Game Pass, which is always a nice bonus for trying out something a little different. It’s not every day you get a shooter where the guns themselves are characters you actually want to listen to, right?

11. Invincible VS

Alright, let’s talk about Invincible VS. If you’re a fan of the show, or just like a good, bloody fighting game, this one might be up your alley. It’s a three-versus-three tag fighter, which means you’ll be swapping characters in and out during fights. The trailer showed off some familiar faces from the comics and show, and the animation looks pretty slick, honestly. It seems like they’re really leaning into the over-the-top violence that the Invincible universe is known for, so don’t expect a gentle experience.

This game looks like it could be the next big thing for superhero fighting game fans.

Here’s what we know so far:

• Gameplay Style: 3v3 Tag-Based Fighting
• Universe: Based on the Invincible comic and TV show
• Developer: Quarter Up (Skybound’s in-house studio)
• Key Features: Brutal combat, iconic characters, authentic battle damage.

It’s still a bit out, with a 2026 release date, but it’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you’re looking for some intense, comic-book-style brawling on your Xbox.

12. Grounded 2

Alright, so remember that game where you’re shrunk down to the size of an ant and have to survive in a backyard? Well, it’s back, and it’s called Grounded 2. This time around, instead of just the familiar backyard, we’re heading out to a whole community park. Think bigger scale, more places to explore, and definitely more giant picnic tables to climb.

Obsidian teamed up with Eidos-Montréal for this one, which is pretty cool. They’re the folks behind games like Deus Ex and the newer Tomb Raider series, so they know how to make a solid game. They’re saying the world is about three times bigger than the first game, and the starting area alone is as big as the entire backyard was before. That’s a lot of tiny real estate!

What’s new? Well, besides the park setting, they’ve added rideable bugs, which sounds wild. Imagine zipping around on a giant ladybug. They’ve also apparently improved the combat and gear systems, which is good news because surviving those giant spiders was tough enough.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know so far:

• New Setting: Brookhollow Park replaces the backyard.
• Expanded World: The game map is significantly larger.
• Rideable Bugs: A new way to get around and maybe even fight.
• Improved Systems: Expect better combat and gear mechanics.
• Partnership: Developed with Eidos-Montréal.

It’s launching into early access on July 29th, so get ready to shrink down again and face those backyard beasts in a whole new environment.

13. DOOM: The Dark Ages

Get ready to rip and tear once more, because DOOM: The Dark Ages is bringing the heat to Xbox in 2025. This isn’t just another sequel; it’s a prequel, taking us back to a time when the Doom Slayer was just a legend. Think medieval castles, demonic hordes, and a whole lot of chainsaw action, but with that signature DOOM speed and brutality we all know and love.

What’s really cool is how they’re mixing familiar elements with a fresh, darker aesthetic. We’re talking about a more grounded, grittier world, but don’t worry, the over-the-top demon slaying isn’t going anywhere. They’ve even introduced a new shield-saw weapon, which sounds wild and promises some seriously creative combat.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we’re expecting:

• A Prequel Story: Explore the origins of the Doom Slayer in a world overrun by demons.
• New Arsenal: Wield a brutal mix of classic and brand-new weapons, including the awesome shield-saw.
• Intense Combat: Experience the fast-paced, visceral combat that DOOM is famous for, cranked up to eleven.
• Epic Boss Fights: Prepare for massive, challenging encounters against some truly terrifying demonic bosses.

Honestly, seeing the Doom Slayer in a more primitive, yet still incredibly powerful, setting is something I’ve been wanting for ages. It feels like id Software is really leaning into the mythos of the character, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it. It’s going to be a bloody good time.

14. Fable

Alright, let’s talk about Fable. This is one of those games that’s been on people’s radar for a while, and honestly, the hype is pretty real. Playground Games is back at the helm, and they’re promising a return to the whimsical, choice-driven RPG that we all know and love, but with a modern twist. Think Albion, but bigger, brighter, and probably with more chickens to kick.

The core of Fable has always been about player freedom and the consequences of your actions. Whether you choose to be a noble hero or a notorious villain, the world reacts to your decisions. This time around, they’re really leaning into that, with a story that’s supposed to be packed with humor and heart. You’ll be exploring a land filled with quirky characters, dangerous creatures, and plenty of opportunities to forge your own legend. It’s not just about the main quest, either; there are tons of side activities and secrets to uncover.

While we don’t have a concrete release date just yet, it’s expected to land sometime in 2026. It’s a bit of a wait, but given the pedigree of the studio and the ambition of the project, it feels like it might be worth it. Keep an eye on this one if you’re looking for a classic RPG experience with a fresh coat of paint. It’s definitely one to watch for Xbox players looking for something truly special.

15. Forza Horizon 6

Alright, car enthusiasts, buckle up because Forza Horizon 6 is officially revving its engines and heading to Japan! Playground Games, the wizards behind the series, have confirmed that the next installment will drop us right into the vibrant streets and scenic landscapes of Japan. We’re still waiting on a ton of gameplay details, but the word is this map is going to be the biggest one yet. Imagine cruising through Tokyo, taking in all the sights and sounds – it sounds pretty epic, right?

While we don’t have an exact release date, it’s slated for sometime in 2026. This means we’ve got a bit of a wait, but it also gives us plenty of time to polish our skills in the current Horizon. Here’s what we’re hoping to see:

• A massive, diverse map: From bustling cityscapes to serene countryside, Japan offers so much potential.
• New car additions: Always a staple of Forza, we’re expecting some exciting new rides.
• Innovative gameplay mechanics: Playground Games always finds ways to keep things fresh.

The biggest takeaway is that this entry promises the largest map in the series’ history. We’re eager to see how they capture the essence of Japan and translate it into a driving experience. Get ready for some serious virtual road trips!

16. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

Alright, let’s talk about the next big thing in the Call of Duty universe: Black Ops 7. This one’s set to drop us into the year 2035, which sounds pretty wild. The story picks up after the events of Black Ops 2 and 6, with the world apparently in a rough spot due to conflict and some serious psychological warfare. David Mason is back, leading the charge against a shadowy enemy who apparently uses fear as their main weapon. Sounds intense, right?

We’re looking at a few different ways to play. There’s a co-op campaign, which could be a lot of fun if you’ve got a squad ready to go. Then, of course, there’s the signature multiplayer, promising new maps and all that good stuff. And for the zombie fans out there, get ready for another chapter in the Dark Aether. It’s the first time Treyarch and Raven Software are doing back-to-back Black Ops titles, so they’re aiming to make it a big one. The official reveal is happening this summer, so we’ll get more details then. It’s also worth noting that this title will be available on a bunch of platforms, including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and even day one on Game Pass. You can also find it on Battle.net and Steam. The first season content drop is scheduled for December 4th, which is pretty soon!

17. Hollow Knight: Silksong

Alright, let’s talk about Hollow Knight: Silksong. This is the one a lot of people have been waiting for, and honestly, it’s shaping up to be something special. It’s a sequel to the original Hollow Knight, which was already a pretty amazing game. Silksong promises to be bigger and more vibrant, which is saying something given how much there was to explore in the first one.

The game puts you in the role of Hornet, a princess and skilled warrior. You’ll be exploring a whole new kingdom, filled with new challenges and secrets. From what we’ve seen, the art style is still gorgeous, and the gameplay looks like it’s building on the solid foundation of the first game. Expect tough boss fights, intricate platforming, and a world that just begs to be discovered. It’s going to be available day one on Game Pass, which is fantastic news for subscribers.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know so far:

• New Protagonist: Play as Hornet, not the Knight.
• Vast New Kingdom: Explore the land of Pharloom.
• Refined Combat: Expect faster, more fluid action.
• Challenging Quests: Plenty of side objectives to keep you busy.

It feels like Team Cherry has really taken their time with this one, refining the systems and making sure it’s a worthy successor. If you enjoyed the first Hollow Knight, then this is definitely one you won’t want to miss. It’s a game that really rewards your patience and skill, and the world they’ve built is just captivating. Keep an eye out for its release; it’s going to be a big one for fans of metroidvania games.

18. The Blood of Dawnwalker

Alright, let’s talk about The Blood of Dawnwalker. This one’s got me pretty intrigued, honestly. It’s a dark fantasy RPG coming from Rebel Wolves, and get this, some of the folks who worked on The Witcher 3 are involved. That’s a pretty solid pedigree, right?

You step into the shoes of Coen, a guy who’s basically half-human, half-vampire. Talk about a tough spot to be in. The game is set in 14th-century Europe, which is already a mess with conflicts and plague, and now you’ve got vampires running around. Your main goal is to save your family, but you’ve got this choice: do you fight to keep your humanity, or do you lean into those new vampiric powers? It sounds like a real moral quandary, and I’m curious to see how that plays out.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:

• Genre: Dark Fantasy RPG
• Protagonist: Coen, a half-human, half-vampire
• Setting: 14th-century Europe during a time of conflict and plague
• Key Choice: Fight for humanity or embrace vampiric powers
• Developer: Rebel Wolves (featuring former Witcher 3 staff)

The gameplay trailer they showed off gave us a decent look at the world, and it’s looking pretty moody and atmospheric. It seems like there’s a good mix of combat and story, which is exactly what I look for in an RPG. They haven’t locked down a specific release date yet, but it’s slated for 2026. You can wishlist it now on Xbox Series X/S and Xbox on PC, so keep an eye on that. It’s definitely one to watch if you’re into vampire lore and deep narratives.

19. Persona 4 Revival

Alright, so get this: Persona 4 is getting a full-on remake, and it’s called Persona 4 Revival. I know, I know, it sounds like they just slapped a new coat of paint on it, but from what we’ve seen, it’s way more than that. They’re rebuilding the whole thing in 3D, making Inaba look all shiny and new. You play as Yu Narukami, the transfer student, and you’re going to relive that whole unforgettable year with your friends.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Persona 4 without the weird murders and that mysterious TV channel that pulls you into another world. It’s where you awaken your Persona powers and team up with your buddies to figure out what’s really going on. It’s been a long time coming, and honestly, seeing it all in full 3D is pretty wild. It’s coming to Xbox Game Pass day one, which is always a nice bonus.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:

• Developer: Atlus
• Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC, Cloud
• Game Pass: Yes, day one
• Release Date: TBC (No official date yet, but we’re hoping soon!)

It’s going to be interesting to see how they handle the social links and dungeon crawling with the new visuals. I’m just excited to get back to Inaba and solve some mysteries.

20. Final Fantasy XVI

Alright, so Final Fantasy XVI is finally hitting Xbox, and honestly, it feels like a big deal. This one’s been out on other platforms for a bit, but having it on Xbox means pretty much every single-player Final Fantasy game is now available. That’s kind of wild when you think about it.

This game throws you into a pretty dark fantasy world. It’s got this mature story that really digs into some heavy stuff, and the action combat is super fast. You play as Clive, and his journey is pretty intense. The world itself is huge, with these massive Eikons – basically, summoned creatures – playing a big role in the story and the battles. The visuals are stunning, and the scale of the Eikon fights is something else.

There are two editions you can grab:

• Standard Edition: Just the base game. Good if you want to jump in and see what it’s all about.
• Complete Edition: This includes the base game plus all the extra story bits and DLC that have come out. If you’re planning on sinking a lot of time into it, this is probably the way to go.

Plus, it’s an Xbox Play Anywhere title. That means if you buy it digitally, you can play it on both your Xbox console and your PC, and your saves will sync up between them. Pretty handy if you switch between devices.

It’s a pretty epic adventure, and it’s great to see it finally join the rest of the Final Fantasy lineup on Xbox.

21. Super Meat Boy 3D

Get ready to die, a lot. Super Meat Boy is back, and this time it’s in 3D. Sluggerfly and Headup Games are taking the beloved indie platformer into a whole new dimension. If you loved the original’s brutal precision and over-the-top gore, you’re in for a treat. Expect the same kind of masochistic level design, but now with added depth. Wall-jumping through buzzsaws and spike traps is going to feel a little different when you’ve got a third axis to worry about.

This new entry promises to keep the series’ signature dark humor and challenging gameplay intact. It’s not just a simple graphical upgrade; the developers are aiming to translate the core experience into a 3D space while maintaining that tight, responsive control that made the original so addictive. It’s a bold move, but one that could really pay off for fans.

Here’s what we know so far:

• Genre: Precision Platformer
• Developer: Sluggerfly & Headup Games
• Release Window: Early 2026
• Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC, Xbox Game Pass day one

It’s going to be interesting to see how they handle the level design in three dimensions. Will it feel like a natural evolution, or will it be a whole new kind of challenge? Either way, if you’re a fan of tough-as-nails platforming, keep an eye on Super Meat Boy 3D.

22. Planet of Lana II

Get ready to jump back into the charming world of Planet of Lana with its sequel, Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf. This next installment looks to be even bigger and more ambitious than the first. The story picks up with Lana and her loyal companion Mui, continuing their journey after the robot invasion from the previous game. It seems like the world has changed quite a bit, and they’ll have to face new challenges together.

What’s really cool is that the developers are expanding on the mechanics. You’ll get new ways to control Lana and Mui, and there are also new abilities to interact with the creatures and robots around you. This should make for some interesting puzzle-solving and exploration. The narrative is also getting a deeper dive, exploring Lana’s personal struggles and uncovering more secrets about the planet. It sounds like a real step up from the original, which was already a pretty special game.

Here’s what we know so far:

• Release Window: Expected in 2026.
• Platforms: It’s going to be an Xbox Play Anywhere title, meaning you can play it on both Xbox consoles and PC.
• Game Pass: You can expect Planet of Lana II to be available on day one with Xbox Game Pass.

It’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you enjoyed the first game or are just looking for a beautiful, story-driven puzzle adventure. You can even wishlist it on the Xbox Store now.

23. At Fate’s End

Okay, so get this: the folks who made Spiritfarer, you know, that super emotional game about helping spirits move on? They’ve got a new one coming out called At Fate’s End. And yeah, it sounds like it’s going to pull at the heartstrings again, but with a lot more sword-fighting.

Basically, you play as this character named Shan, who’s inherited this legendary sword. The catch? You have to fight your own siblings. Talk about a family reunion gone wrong, right? It’s supposed to be an action-adventure game, so expect some fast-paced combat mixed with figuring out puzzles and uncovering some pretty heavy family secrets. It’s all about these complicated sibling relationships in a world that’s apparently pretty messed up because of their feud. Sounds intense, but also kind of fascinating. I’m curious to see how they balance the action with the deep story, like they did with Spiritfarer, but in a totally different way.

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:

• Genre: Action-Adventure
• Developer: Thunder Lotus Games (the Spiritfarer people!)
• Key Feature: Intense duels against estranged siblings.
• Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox PC, Xbox Cloud, Xbox Play Anywhere. It’s also a day one Game Pass title, which is always a plus.

It’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you liked their previous work or if you’re looking for a game with a strong narrative that doesn’t shy away from tough emotional stuff, all wrapped up in some cool action.

24. Euro Truck Simulator 2

Alright, so if you’ve ever found yourself staring out the window on a long drive and thought, "Man, I wish I could do that, but, like, for real, and with a job," then Euro Truck Simulator 2 might be your jam. It’s officially making its way to Xbox Series X, which is pretty cool. You basically get to be a truck driver, but without all the actual road grime and questionable truck stop coffee.

The core idea is simple: you drive trucks and deliver stuff across Europe. It sounds straightforward, but there’s a surprising amount of depth to it. You’re not just point A to point B; you’re managing your cargo, planning routes, and trying to get it there on time and in one piece. It’s a whole business simulation wrapped up in a driving game.

Here’s a little peek at what you can expect:

• Build Your Own Trucking Empire: Start with a single truck and work your way up to owning a massive fleet. Hire drivers, manage their performance, and expand your operations.
• Explore a Huge Map: The game covers tons of real European cities. You’ll be cruising through Germany, Italy, the UK, and many other countries, each with its own unique look and feel.
• Realistic Driving Experience: SCS Software, the developers, really put effort into making the driving feel authentic. You’ll deal with traffic, weather conditions, and the sheer scale of the vehicles.
• Manage Your Business: Beyond just driving, you’ll be handling finances, taking out loans, and making smart decisions to keep your company profitable.

It’s one of those games that’s super chill to just zone out with, but if you want to get really into the management side, there’s a ton to sink your teeth into. Definitely one to check out if you’re looking for something a bit different on your Xbox.

25. American Truck Simulator and more

Alright, so we’ve talked about a lot of flashy games, right? Big explosions, epic quests, all that jazz. But sometimes, you just want to chill out and do something… well, a bit more grounded. That’s where games like American Truck Simulator and its European cousin, Euro Truck Simulator 2, come in. These aren’t just about driving; they’re about building a business, managing your fleet, and seeing the sights, all from the comfort of your virtual driver’s seat.

American Truck Simulator is officially hitting Xbox Series X in 2025, bringing the open roads of the US to your console. You’ll be hauling cargo across states like California, Nevada, and Arizona. It’s a surprisingly deep experience, focusing on the logistics and the journey itself. Think of it as a career simulator with a really, really big steering wheel.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Drive Across Iconic American Landscapes: From deserts to cities, the game aims to capture the feel of the open road.
• Build Your Own Trucking Company: Start small and grow your business, hiring drivers and expanding your fleet.
• Manage Your Deliveries: Plan routes, manage fuel, and deal with traffic to get your cargo to its destination on time.

And if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to drive through Europe, Euro Truck Simulator 2 is also slated for an Xbox release around the same time. It’s the same core idea, but with a whole different continent to explore. So, whether you’re feeling more like a West Coast trucker or a continental hauler, 2025 looks like a good year to hit the road.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it, a look at some of the awesome games heading our way on Xbox in 2025. It’s shaping up to be a seriously good year for gamers, with a bit of everything for everyone. Whether you’re into big action, deep stories, or just something totally new, Xbox has you covered. I’m personally really looking forward to diving into a few of these myself. It’s a great time to be an Xbox player, that’s for sure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most exciting new Xbox games coming out in 2025?

Get ready for a fantastic year of gaming on Xbox! Some of the most talked-about games include the return of beloved series like Gears of War: Reloaded and Ninja Gaiden 4, plus new adventures in The Outer Worlds 2 and Avowed. You can also look forward to unique experiences like Expedition 33 and Clockwork Revolution, and even the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong.

Will any of these new games be available on Xbox Game Pass?

Many games launching in 2025 are expected to be available on Xbox Game Pass, often on the very first day they’re released. This includes exciting titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong and potentially others like Marathon and DOOM: The Dark Ages. It’s always a good idea to check the specific game’s details for Game Pass confirmation.

Are there any sequels to popular games coming out?

Yes, absolutely! Fans can look forward to sequels like The Outer Worlds 2, Grounded 2, and High On Life 2. Plus, we’re seeing new installments in major franchises such as Gears of War: Reloaded and the potential for a new Fable game.

What about games based on movies or other media?

You’re in luck! Terminator 2D: No Fate brings the iconic movie action to your console. We’re also seeing Invincible VS, a fighting game based on the popular comic book and animated series, bringing superhero brawls to life.

Are there any new types of games or unique experiences on the way?

Definitely! Expedition 33 offers a fresh take on turn-based RPGs with stunning art and deep gameplay. Clockwork Revolution promises an ambitious new adventure, and games like Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator are bringing their detailed simulation experiences to Xbox.

What if I’m a fan of role-playing games (RPGs)?

RPG fans have a lot to be excited about! Avowed offers a deep fantasy world to explore, while Elden Ring Nightreign – The Forsaken Hollows adds more content to an already massive game. Persona 4 Revival is also on the horizon, bringing a stylish JRPG experience.