PC gaming keeps surprising me every year, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting times for new releases. Developers are pushing the limits of graphics, storytelling, and gameplay in fresh ways. Whether you play solo or like to jump into online adventures with friends, there’s a game here for every kind of player.
If you’ve been waiting for something new, or you’re ready to try the latest entry in your favorite series, you’ll find a mix of everything in this lineup. From epic roleplaying games to fast-paced action shooters, open world survival titles, and clever coop stories, the variety gives me plenty of options to look forward to. Some of these titles build on series I already love, while others introduce brand new experiences that are getting lots of buzz in the gaming community.
So, here’s my list of the top 10 must play PC games coming in 2025. I picked these not just for the hype, but for their gameplay innovation, visuals, and the promise they hold for both newcomers and longtime fans alike.
1. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II expands everything I enjoyed about the first game. If you love historical RPGs with a focus on realism, you’ll feel right at home here. This sequel takes me to 15thcentury Bohemia, putting me in the shoes of a blacksmith’s son facing political intrigue and intense medieval combat.
The detailed world is even larger this time. The developers added more cities, questlines, and side adventures, so I won’t run out of things to do. Swordplay requires skill and timing, making every duel an intense experience. There’s no magic or fantasy here, just authentic medieval life, meaningful choices, and a deep story. If you want to get lost in another time, this is the kind of game that can fill your weekends.
The original game was praised for its realistic environments and unique combat mechanics, but it also left room for improvement, especially in terms of technical performance. In Deliverance II, the development team promises smoother gameplay and more responsive controls. Elaborate quests woven throughout the landscape encourage you to explore different approaches, giving you real agency in shaping Henry’s journey. Fans of historical settings will also appreciate the game’s steadfast commitment to accuracy, down to the language and armor on display. For RPG lovers seeking depth and challenge, this one’s set to be a top pick in 2025.
2. Monster Hunter Wilds
The Monster Hunter series always pulls me back for the thrill of tackling massive creatures in wild, living environments. Monster Hunter Wilds ramps up the action by offering a fully open, connected world featuring a natural ecosystem. The game now reacts to changes like weather, time of day, and player decisions.
Taking down a monster means thinking like a true hunter. I have to track down their behaviors, use the right gear for the hunt, and work together if I’m teaming up with friends. The crafting and upgrade systems let me experiment with different playstyles, and the seamless map means no more frustrating load screens. Whether you’re a series veteran or just love action RPGs with loot and big boss fights, Monster Hunter Wilds is a must play.
Capcom teased new systems that let you manipulate the world, offering creative ways to shape the hunt and the outcome of battles. Cooperative play becomes even deeper: team attack moves, environmental traps, and new combo weapons mean every mission feels fresh. The range of monsters, from soaring wyverns to earthshaking beasts, brings a sense of awe that only this series can deliver. Early hands on impressions have called out the game’s lively world design and smart AI, which keeps every battle unpredictable. Fans can also expect regular content updates, ensuring the world remains alive long after launch.
3. DOOM: The Dark Ages
DOOM: The Dark Ages is a prequel I never knew I needed. As a big fan of modern DOOM games, famous for their fast, fluid combat and over the top weapons, I’m excited to see this entry mix things up by dropping the DOOM Slayer into a grim medieval world. New weapons and brutal close quarters combat make every fight satisfying.
The classic metal soundtrack and creative enemy design carry on the best DOOM traditions. What changes is the setting—a darker, moodier vibe with new twists on DOOM’s signature chaos. The story fleshes out the lore of the Slayer, bridging gaps in the saga for fans. New types of melee weaponry and siege engines add plenty of variety to the fights, and rune based powerups let you customize your playstyle. If you’re looking for adrenaline from start to finish, this is a top contender for your 2025 playlist.
4. Civilization VII
Civilization VII gives me the most super detailed worldbuilding tools yet. The Civilization series has always been my go to for strategy marathons, and this new entry makes me even more excited with its fresh take on city management, diplomacy, and technology advancement. Whether you aim for a win through science, culture, military conquest, or alliance making, there’s a route for every strategist.
The updated graphics engine brings every map to life: sprawling cities, animated citizens, and beautiful natural wonders fill the screen. Smart AI rivals challenge me to rethink my plans, and multiplayer gives friends the chance to compete or team up. New systems for government, infrastructure, and social policy inspire creative plays, while the interface remains welcoming for newcomers. If you love weighing big decisions and watching history unfold at your pace, Civ VII is a must play in 2025.
5. Assassin’s Creed Shadows
For years, I’ve hoped to see Assassin’s Creed head to feudal Japan, and Shadows brings that dream to life. The open world teems with temples, forests, bustling towns, and castles straight from classic samurai movies. The game lets me flip between stealthy ninja moves and all out samurai sword action, depending on how I want to approach each mission.
A new weather and day night system means your approach matters: sneak in during the mist or strike boldly under the afternoon sun. Each story arc is shaped by your choices, introducing unique consequences and memorable characters along the way. Immersive design and historical detail give a rich sense of time and place, creating a playground for stealth lovers and action fans alike. If you crave thrilling sword fights and deep stories, there’s no better setting than this.
6. Split Fiction
From the creators of It Takes Two, Split Fiction jumps into the coop adventure space with next-level cool ideas. The game asks two players to work closely, solving puzzles, handling emotional moments, and driving a branching narrative. Every choice changes how things play out, so each run feels different.
The vibrant art direction blends surreal fantasy elements with down to earth human drama, creating a world full of surprises. Critics are already praising Split Fiction for its creative gameplay twists and heartfelt storytelling, claiming it sets a new bar for teamwork driven games. If you love sharing a controller or want to try an online story with a friend, this one will definitely stick with you.
Players get the option to switch things up on the fly, trading characters’ roles in the story and drastically changing how puzzles are solved! Hidden secrets, alternate endings, and a truly dynamic screenplay mean you’re never just playing “by the book.” Replay value comes from trying new strategies and routes, making it perfect to play again and again. Split Fiction steps up the standard for modern coop adventures.
7. Avowed
Avowed marks Obsidian Entertainment’s return to big, choice driven fantasy, but this time as a first person RPG. I’m drawn into a lushly detailed world loaded with lore, magic, and competing factions that all respond to how I play. Whether I want to use dialogue, stealth, or all out power, I get to shape my path as the story unfolds.
The magic system in Avowed is open ended, giving me lots of room to experiment and develop unique playstyles. Conversations and choices matter a word here or a threat there really can open up new questlines or alter the fate of entire regions. Rich visuals, complex characters, and that signature Obsidian wit and writing style make this a major RPG launch. For anyone craving a deep world and real story impact, Avowed is where you want to be in 2025.
8. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2
Bloodlines 2 kept fans waiting, but it’s finally about to hit the shelves. This RPG throws me into a modern city where supernatural politics, rival vampire clans, and tough decisions define every moment. I get to shape my character’s skills and connections to fit my approach, whether that means silent manipulation or bold action.
The game drips with atmosphere: rain slicked streets, moody neon, and an underground culture where nothing is ever as simple as it seems. Every choice has a cost, and consequences might not show up until much later. For players who crave narrative depth and tough moral calls, Bloodlines 2 delivers that classic immersive vampire experience.
New gameplay systems have been added to step up the stealth and combat, while dialogue and alliance tracking offer new ways to push the story in your direction. You’ll meet unforgettable NPCs along the way, each with their own secrets and ambitions, ensuring that no two playthroughs are the same. The game also features multiple endings based on your actions across the campaign, so replay value is high for fans of the series or newcomers alike.
9. Dune: Awakening
Dune: Awakening mixes survival and MMO elements on the endless sands of Arrakis. As a diehard fan of Dune books and movies, I’m excited to carve out my place in a world of sandstorms, shifting politics, and monstrous sandworms. This game blends base-building, resource management, and tight player interactions for something genuinely new.
Competing for power with other factions means forging alliances, fighting other players, and managing scarce resources like water. The danger out in the dunes whether from weather or worms keeps me on edge. Playing solo or with a whole crew, Dune: Awakening promises a fresh, high stakes twist on open world survival. The political system also brings dynamic alliances and betrayals, making each play session unpredictable and lively.
10. The Outer Worlds 2
The first Outer Worlds really won me over with its clever humor, flexible roleplaying, and quirky sci fi universe. The sequel looks to take up everything that made the original popular and kick it up a notch. It keeps the snappy dialogue, branching stories, and satirical look at space adventures, while adding depth and new choices for players.
Now I can travel between even more unique planets, interacting with a huge cast of NPCs and shaping my path through big decisions. Player agency is a real focus here you’re not just following orders. Whether you’re a first timer or a series fan, The Outer Worlds 2 is one of 2025’s most anticipated games. It’s perfect for players who want serious story impact with a dose of hilarity.
How I Picked These Games
Narrowing down the best PC games for 2025 took some careful thinking. I looked for innovation, creative new settings, real player choice, and replay value. Early hands-on coverage, developer reputations, and buzz from the PC gaming community all played a big role in my selections. As a gamer with years of experience, I think it’s important to include both single player epics and games you can play with friends.
I also made sure every gaming style is represented whether you enjoy open world adventures, tricky survival games, creative coop stories, or strategic planning. These ten games show off what’s most exciting in PC gaming this year. To stay updated on even more releases or check in on trends, check sites like PC Gamer and Rock Paper Shotgun.
What Makes a Game Worth Playing in 2025?
For me, a standout game is about more than just graphics or buzz. I want to see my choices matter, get rewarded for exploring or mastering new skills, and fall in love with a world I want to revisit. Games like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2 keep me planning ahead by letting me decide which path to follow. Creative experiences, such as Split Fiction’s unique coop model or Dune: Awakening’s survival twist, show what’s trending in PC gaming innovation.
Advances in graphics and AI bring these worlds to life, making them more responsive and engaging than ever. Worlds that change based on what you do, lively characters who remember your actions, and environments that adapt keep every session fresh. Strong multiplayer features let me hang out with friends or link up with new players from all over the world.
Getting Ready for These Games
Before these big releases, I always make sure my PC is set. Modern games need powerful hardware, especially those with huge open worlds and next level graphics. It’s smart to upgrade your graphics card, check you have 16GB RAM or more, and clear some space on your drive.
Joining gaming communities and forums is helpful for swapping tips, reading early impressions, and troubleshooting problems. Following developers on social media, joining Discord groups, and staying plugged into gaming news will keep you ahead of the curve and help you find people to play with.
Finding Your Next Favorite Game
It’s a fantastic year to be a PC gamer. The 2025 lineup covers everything: deep storytelling, wild action, strategic thinking, teamwork, and worlds full of adventure. No matter how you like to play, you’ll find something in this list that fits your mood. I’m already clearing space on my hard drive and making time to get into these when they launch.
Which upcoming release has you counting the days? Let me know in the comments section below!
Great post! Really enjoyed reading this. Keep up the excellent work!