7 most anticipated action games set to release in 2025

The gaming world is gearing up for an explosive 2025, with some of the most anticipated action games making their long-awaited debuts. From groundbreaking sequels like GTA VI to ambitious new entries like Crimson Desert, these titles promise unforgettable experiences, whether through innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, or refined gameplay mechanics.

Here's a closer look at the seven most anticipated action games set to release in 2025.

Note: The article is subjective and reflects the writer's views. The entries are ranked in no particular order.

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Grand Theft Auto VI and other 6 most anticipated action games set to release in 2025

1) Grand Theft Auto VI

Lucia and her accomplice from GTA VI (Image via Rockstar Games)

Few games in history have generated as much buzz as Grand Theft Auto VI. Crowned as the "Most Anticipated Game" at The Game Awards 2024, Rockstar’s newest entry in the GTA series is set in a modern-day Vice City. This time, the spotlight shines on Lucia, the franchise’s first female protagonist, she and her accomplice navigate a chaotic world filled with heists, satire, and action.

The game's December 2023 trailer shattered records, amassing over 200 million views and teasing an incredible blend of realism and signature GTA chaos in action games. Title is scheduled for late 2025 on consoles and 2026 for PC.

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2) Crimson Desert

A still from the Crimson Desert trailer (Image via Pearl Abyss)

From the creators of Black Desert Online, Crimson Desert is set to transport players into a vast, divided continent called Pywel. Initially envisioned as a prequel to Black Desert, this standalone action RPG follows the story of Kliff, a mercenary thrust into a gripping narrative filled with betrayal and survival.

After a high-profile showcase at The Game Awards 2024, fans eagerly await the late 2025 release. Powered by the cutting-edge BlackSpace Engine, Crimson Desert marks the fourth major title from Pearl Abyss in action games and set to release in late 2025.

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3) Monster Hunter Wilds

A still from Monster Hunter Wilds in most anticipated action games of 2025 (Image via CAPCOM)

Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds invites players to venture into the Forbidden Lands on a quest to uncover the fate of a missing expedition. Scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, this installment retains the franchise's iconic monster hunting mechanics while introducing new locations like Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest.

The beta was a massive success, attracting over 460,000 players and solidifying the game as one of the year’s most anticipated action titles. It even earned a spot alongside GTA VI on the nominations list for most anticipated game of 2024 at TGA. Moreover, Capcom has assured fans that the microtransaction system will remain cosmetic only, emphasizing fairness in gameplay.

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4) Ghost of Yōtei

A still from the Ghost of Yōtei trailer (Image via Sony Interactive Entertainment)

Set in 17th-century Hokkaido, Ghost of Yōtei will be the sequel to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima in most anticipated action games. This time, players take on the role of Atsu, a female warrior adopting the Ghost persona. Developers have promised a more personal narrative, allowing players greater control over Atsu’s story.

Inspired by real-life visits to northern Japan, the Sucker Punch Productions recorded natural sounds from Shiretoko National Park and drew from the region’s Japan's rich history to create an immersive experience. Exclusive to the PS5, this title is expected to release in 2025 but the exact date is yet to be announced.

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5) Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Gojo and his crew from Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii (Image via SEGA)

Following the success of Like a Dragon: Infinite, SEGA brings fans another thrilling chapter from the Yakuza series in most anticipated action games set to release in 2025. Much akin to Like a Dragon Gaiden from 2023, this title features a vibrant hub area called Madlantis and the story follows fan-favorite Goro Majima as he leads a crew of pirates in search of treasure and his lost memories.

Set against the backdrop of Hawaiian islands, Like a Dragon Pirate will offer fans a mix of familiar gameplay and new experiences including unique additions like the Minato Girls, and it’s set to release on February 20, 2025.

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6) Dune: Awakening

Dune: Awakening is highly anticipated and set to release in 2025 (Image via Funcom)

Funcom’s Dune: Awakening merges survival mechanics with the intricate lore of Frank Herbert’s legendary universe. Players will explore Arrakis, dodging colossal sandworms (Shai-Hulud), surviving harsh sandstorms, and building bases amidst the planet's dangers.

Set for release in early 2025, the game balances crafting, combat, and exploration with a respect for the Dune saga’s religious undertones like Butlerian jihad (The war between humans and AI). With deep RPG systems and stunning visuals, Dune: Awakening is a promising addition to both the survival and action games genre.

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7) Borderlands 4

Play as Kairos as one of four new Vault Hunters (Image via 2K)

After Borderlands 3 made over over US$1 billion dollars, Borderlands 4 is one of the most anticipated titles of 2025. Gearbox Software is taking the franchise in a new direction, addressing past criticisms of its humor and writing and focusing on a more mature tone.

The game will feature a new villain, the Timekeeper, who aims to fill the void left by the iconic Handsome Jack. One major upgrade is the inclusion of cross-play from day one which lacked in the previous installment, allowing players on different platforms to team up seamlessly. And it is set for release in late 2025.

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Fans are majorly hyped to play these action games and can't wait for their release.