The new year 2025 has arrived, and two more long winter months lie ahead. Since the weather is not in the mood for long walks, it’s time to dedicate some time to video games. At the beginning of 2025, the gaming world is ready to explode with an exciting lineup of games across genres. This year, from tactical action and adventure to dizzying rhythm battles and deep role-playing stories, promises a diverse set of experiences for every type of gamer. The games released in January and February are guaranteed to take you on unforgettable journeys. Here’s a preview of the highly anticipated games you can look forward to this winter, each offering something unique and exciting.
Sea Fantasy: Save the World by Fishing
Platform: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Genre: Action, RPG
Set in a vibrant pixel-art world, Sea Fantasy combines fishing action, exploration, and crafting in an epic quest to prevent the world’s destruction. Join two adventurers as they sail to capture SeaAZ, mysterious marine creatures. Master fishing mechanics, explore islands, and uncover dungeons filled with traps and treasures. Use materials from caught SeaAZ to craft powerful rods and hooks, enhancing your journey. With its unique blend of mechanics and an engaging storyline, Sea Fantasy offers a fresh take on the action RPG genre this winter.
Rivenaar’s Grove: A Magical Puzzle Adventure
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch
Genres: Casual, Brain Training, Puzzle
Rivenaar’s Grove offers a fantasy twist on sliding puzzles, casting players as a magician’s apprentice. Move in straight lines across fields to gather crops, navigating traps, obstacles, and portals across 50 challenging levels. Retry levels as needed or tackle special challenge modes with limited moves and time limits. With intuitive gameplay and increasing complexity, this top-down puzzle game is perfect for casual players and puzzle enthusiasts alike.
Freedom Wars Remastered: Battle for Redemption
Platform: PS5, PS4, Switch, PC
Genre: Action
In a dystopian future where existence itself is a crime, Freedom Wars Remastered lets players fight for their lives. Sentenced to a million years in prison, you must complete dangerous missions to earn freedom. Engage in three-dimensional, high-speed combat using the versatile Thorn weapon, alongside your cyborg Accessory companion.
Sleight of Hand: Tactical Magic and Stealth
Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Action, Tactic
Sleight of Hand combines real-time gameplay with card mechanics. In a rain-soaked city where ritual magic and cursed artifacts rule, you must infiltrate the shadows and destroy the coven you once served. You will be challenged to outsmart your opponents. Use strong magic through strategic card play in this third-person stealth action card simulator. With a gritty noir setting and innovative mechanics, Sleight of Hand promises an immersive experience for stealth and strategy enthusiasts.
Heroes of Hammerwatch II: Persistent Rogue-Lite Adventure
Platform: PC
Genre: Action, RPG
Heroes of Hammerwatch II expands on the addictive, simplistic loot-filled action of its predecessor, offering a vastly improved experience. Build and upgrade your city to support your heroes as they battle through dangerously unpredictable dungeons in the ever-changing, dark Citadel. Collect durable gear, unlock run-defining trinkets, and choose from a variety of character classes with unique specializations. Play solo or call on friends to join you in online multiplayer, and overcome treacherous traps and enemy hordes. With endless replayability, Heroes of Hammerwatch II challenges players to push their skills and strategies to the limit.
The Roottrees are Dead: Solve the Family Mystery
Platform: PC
Genre: Adventure
Set in 1998, The Roottrees are Dead challenges players to uncover the tangled web of a billionaire family’s lineage after a plane crash claims the lives of the Roottree heirs. Use your trusty dial-up modem to find photos, articles, and other clues to complete the family tree and reveal hidden scandals. Created for the Global Game Jam 2023, this acclaimed armchair detective game has been enhanced for Steam with hand-drawn illustrations, remastered music, and fully voiced cinematics. Dive into a new chapter, “Roottreemania,” for an additional mystery and a fresh family tree to uncover in America’s maple candy empire.
Things Too Ugly: A Psychological Horror Simulation
Platform: Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Genre: Adventure, Indie, Simulation
In Things Too Ugly, take on the role of a risk assessment operator at TEREBRO INC. in 1986. Armed with tools like a GPS and a coding device, delve into archival documents and records to uncover the hidden truth. Navigate a tense, dimly lit office environment as you unravel corporate secrets, solve puzzles, and explore the narrative. With high-contrast visuals, updated audio, and a gripping psychological story, decide whether to protect TEREBRO INC.’s legacy or uncover its darkest secrets. Will you protect the corporation or tear it apart from within?
Dynasty Warriors Origins: Tactical Action in the Three Kingdoms
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Action, RPG, Strategy
Experience the thrilling, action-packed battles of the Three Kingdoms in Dynasty Warriors Origins. Play as a nameless hero and engage in tactical battles across vast battlefields. Unite with allies to confront overwhelming enemy forces in the most intense action the franchise has ever seen. Set in a reimagined world of the Three Kingdoms, the game offers a new perspective through the eyes of the original hero.
Tales of Graces f Remastered: Friendship and Destiny in Ephinea
Platforms: Switch, PC
Genre: Action, RPG
Tales of Graces f Remastered is an action role-playing game set in the vibrant world of Ephinea, where childhood promises to shape the fate of nations. Watch as Asbel, Richard, and Sophie face life-threatening dangers and unravel deeper mysteries as they test the strength of their friendship. The game features thrilling action thanks to the Style Shift Linear Motion Battle System, which offers two dynamic fighting styles. With improved graphics, improved quality of life, and full character development, this updated remaster also includes “Lineage and Legacy,” a narrative that continues the journey with new challenges.
Magic Inn: Build the Ultimate Fantasy Inn
Platform: PC
Genre: Casual, Indie, RPG, Simulation
In Magic Inn, craft your dream 5-star inn, blending magic and fantasy in a charming simulation RPG. Manage menus, hire top chefs, and create a menu that dazzles guests, including royalty. Forge bonds with local farmers and winemakers, and discover the secret world of friendly ghosts offering whimsical rewards. Build relationships with guests and staff through interactive dialogues, and use magic to enhance your inn’s services. Cheat your way to success with subtle tactics to impress judges and achieve the coveted 5-star rating. Uncover a tale of redemption and magic as you thrive in this enchanted world.
Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles – Lightsaber Combat in The Phantom Menace
Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Genre: Action, Adventure, Casual
In Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles, join iconic characters like Mace Windu, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Qui-Gon Jinn to retake Theed Palace in a thrilling lightsaber battle. Face off against droids, assassins, and more from The Phantom Menace in a fast-paced, side-scrolling action adventure. Play solo or team up with your best friend and fight side by side through a 10-level campaign. Unlock new characters like Darth Maul and Queen Amidala, and enjoy nostalgic features like cheat codes and customizable lightsaber colors. Celebrate the 25th anniversary with modern controls and bonus mini-games.
The Stone of Madness: Stealth and Strategy in a Haunted Monastery
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, PC
Genre: Action, Indie, Strategy
From the creators of Blasphemous comes The Stone of Madness, a real-time tactical stealth game set in an 18th-century Spanish Monastery. Guide five prisoners with unique skills as they navigate the haunted monastery, unraveling mysteries and battling personal phobias. Use each character’s abilities—such as spellcasting and stealth—to explore, solve puzzles, and avoid the guards’ watchful eyes. Manage their sanity, as triggering traumas can alter gameplay. Experience two campaigns with distinct stories, all set in beautifully hand-painted, Goya-inspired visuals. Time plays a crucial role, with day and night shifting the risks and challenges.
Warside: Modern Turn-Based Tactics Across Land, Sea, and Air
Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Genre: Adventure, Indie, Strategy
Warside brings a modern twist to the classic turn-based tactics genre, offering a deep, story-driven campaign and strategic battles on land, in the air and at sea. Choose from 14 commanders, each with unique skills and combat abilities, and command over 30 types of units, including tanks, submarines, helicopters and specialized infantry. Take part in over 30 missions in a variety of environments, from forests to wastelands. The game features both single-player and cross-platform multiplayer modes, allowing for both local and online challenges. Customize your experience with the mission editor and engage in exciting tactical warfare in beautifully crafted pixel art.
Spider-Man 2: Web-Slinging Action Across New York
Platform: PC
Genre: Action, Adventure
Spider-Man 2 swings onto PC with thrilling web-slinging action as Peter Parker and Miles Morales unite to save New York from the monstrous Venom and a new symbiote threat. Explore an expanded Marvel’s New York, including Brooklyn and Queens, with the addition of Web Wings for faster traversal. Switch between Peter and Miles to utilize their unique powers—Peter’s symbiote abilities and Miles’ bio-electric venom skills—while battling iconic villains like Kraven the Hunter and Lizard. Enhanced for PC with stunning visuals and a range of accessibility features, this game offers an action-packed, accessible experience for all players.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 – Medieval Europe and a Hero’s Revenge
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 takes you back to 15th-century Medieval Europe, following young Henry’s journey to avenge his parents’ murder. As Henry transforms from an aspiring warrior to a rebel, shapes his destiny in a world where every action leaves a lasting impact. Experience visceral, real-time combat, whether on foot, horseback, or using stealth, with the option to specialize in swordplay, blunt weapons, or ranged attacks. Explore a vibrant, open-world Europe, from city streets to forests, in this rich story-driven RPG filled with action, adventure, and unforgettable encounters.
Rift of the NecroDancer: Rhythm-Based Combat Against the Rift’s Monsters
Platform: PC
Genre: Action, Indie, RPG
Rift of the NecroDancer is a rhythm-based action RPG where Cadence faces off against monsters pouring through a rift into a new world. Engage in musical combat, learning each enemy’s unique behavior while keeping the rhythm flowing. With a brand-new soundtrack and 30+ tracks, players can choose from four difficulty levels and climb global leaderboards. The game offers endless replayability with Remix Mode and daily challenges, as well as the ability to create custom beat maps. Dive into quirky minigames and rhythm-based boss battles, all while enjoying the exciting, dynamic music-driven gameplay.
Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator – Respond to Emergencies and Save Lives
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Simulation
In Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator, immerse yourself in the intense world of emergency medical care. Respond to emergency calls, race to the scene of an accident at full speed while sirens wail, and administer critical first aid to the injured. Developed by the creators of Police Simulator: Patrol Officers, this game challenges you to think quickly and adapt to a variety of emergencies, providing timely and effective care. Experience every second of the life of a paramedic like never before in this realistic simulation that tests your decision-making skills and speed.
Big Helmet Heroes: Cinematic Beat ‘Em Up Adventure with Friends
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, PC
Genre: Action, Adventure, Casual, Indie
Immerse yourself in a vibrant and cinematic 3D world with Big Helmet Heroes, a fast-paced action-adventure battle game with stunning visuals and cinematic animation. Embark on a quest to rescue the princess through whimsical realms, solo or with a friend in a two-player co-op. Choose from four distinct combat styles to take on your enemies: from the poised Warrior to the stealthy Rogue, the mighty Beast, and the agile Monk. With immersive environments, unique hero abilities, and cooperative gameplay, Big Helmet Heroes delivers thrilling action and stunning visuals in an unforgettable adventure. Explore fantasy worlds, wield powerful weapons, and unlock visually explosive abilities for immersive gameplay.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II – Investigate Murders and Uncover Secrets
Platforms: PS5, PS4, Switch, PC
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II is an action role-playing game set in Calvard, where peace is disrupted by a series of murders involving a mysterious crimson beast. Van Arkrid, a spriggan, is drawn into the investigation as factions try to uncover the truth. The game features an advanced combat system with Cross Charge and EX Chains, allowing for powerful combo attacks. Players can choose chapters in any order, each offering unique missions and character perspectives. With a vibrant world and deeply developed characters, the game weaves a complex story of mystery and adventure.
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – A Punk Band’s Journey Through Friendship and Secrets
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Adventures, Indie
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is an indie adventure game. Set in the summer of 1995, four high school girls form a punk band and develop a friendship. As they record their memories on film, an unexplained event changes their lives forever. The game offers a narrative journey that explores the connections between the characters. 27 years later, it uncovers the dark secrets that made them swear never to speak again. From the creators of Life is Strange, this narrative experience blends nostalgia with mystery as players unravel the past and its lasting consequences.
Monster Hunter Wilds: Hunting Monsters in Ever-Changing Environments
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
Monster Hunter Wilds immerses you in a world of duality, where humans and monstrous creatures struggle for harmony. As a hunter, you track down and defeat powerful monsters, using the materials from your hunt to craft new weapons and armor. The story begins with Nata, a boy rescued from the Forbidden Lands, an uncharted region where his village has been attacked by a mysterious monster. The guild organizes an expedition to investigate. Due to constantly changing weather conditions, the hunters are forced to adapt their tactics as the monstrous creatures have evolved to survive in a dynamic environment. Meet other hunters and expedition members as you embark on this wild, challenging journey.
Omega 6: The Triangle Stars – Retro-Future Adventure Across the Stars
Platform: Switch, PC
Genre: Adventure
OMEGA 6: The Triangle Stars is a 16-bit styled retro-future adventure infused with RPG elements. It’s crafted by former Nintendo art director Takaya Imamura and Happymeal, creators of the Retro Mystery Club series. Follow Thunder and Kyla, two androids sent on a mission to find a new planet for humanity after Earth is overwhelmed by aliens. To pay off a planetary loan, they must find an ultimate treasure hidden in ancient ruins across three unique planets: Impostar, Igni, and Froslara. Encounter over 100 aliens, engage in card-based battles, and complete missions while navigating a galaxy filled with mystery, drama, and unexpected encounters. The game also offers a bonsai that can boost abilities and grant powerful magic fruits.
Conclusion:
With such a stellar collection of games set to release in the first two months of 2025, there’s no doubt that this year is off to an exhilarating start. Whether you’re conquering ancient ruins, solving intricate mysteries, or battling monstrous foes, these titles are sure to provide countless hours of entertainment. As we dive deeper into the new year, gamers can expect even more incredible experiences to explore, making 2025 a truly exciting time to be a part of the gaming community. Get ready to embark on epic adventures and create lasting memories with these must-play releases.
