2024 might not have delivered quite the same flood of top-tier games compared to last year, but the releases were still impressive. We had Astro Bot, Helldivers 2, STALKER 2, Metaphor: ReFantazio, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, and Balatro, just to name a few highlights. Yet, as we look ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for gaming, and the hype is already building with The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game nominees setting the stage for what’s to come.
Should every game planned for release next year actually make it to launch, 2025 could go down as a landmark year for the industry. Even if some launches get delayed, there’s a solid lineup waiting to fill any gaps. Just take the five contenders nominated for The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game; these alone could keep gamers busy for twelve months. But while all these games get fans buzzing, only one will walk away with the coveted award.
Now let’s dive into the lineup vying for The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game. The nominees are:
- Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Ghost of Yotei
- Grand Theft Auto VI
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Monster Hunter Wilds
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Hideo Kojima, a name synonymous with groundbreaking video game artistry, is at it again. His knack for blending cinematic flair with gaming is evident in the success of the original Death Stranding, released in November 2019. The game not only received praise upon its launch but continued to captivate players even years later. Fast forward to 2025, and we’re eagerly anticipating Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. This sequel promises to delve deeper into the mystique of its predecessor, ready to take players on a journey unlike any other.
Ghost of Yotei
Though it may have initially been overshadowed by The Last of Us Part 2, Ghost of Tsushima eventually secured its place as one of the standout action-adventure titles in recent memory. Its engaging battles, touching narrative, and stunning visuals made it a standout in the open-world genre. The news of its sequel, Ghost of Yotei, set for a 2025 release, has stirred considerable excitement. Players will be stepping into the shoes of Atsu, a warrior in the early 1600s, experiencing new weaponry and activities as they explore Hokkaido. Expect a richer experience, with the modernization of technology like rifle usage adding to the depth.
Grand Theft Auto 6
It’s safe to say that Grand Theft Auto 6 has been on the minds of gamers ever since we bid farewell to its predecessor over a decade ago. Generating anticipation before even releasing a single frame of gameplay, GTA 6 is a testament to how far-reaching its fan base is. The buzz only multiplied after the first trailer, making the anticipation palpable. With endless speculation surrounding its plot twists, open-world quests, and multiplayer antics, the game is posed to be a tremendous hit come 2025.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is another sequel that’s been teased for what feels like an eternity. Finally, it seems the wait will be over in 2025. It’ll delight long-time fans eager to see the game on their current Switch consoles, even amid rumors of new hardware from Nintendo. Gamers will once again join Samus Aran in a galaxy-spanning quest, promising an electrifying adventure.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, Monster Hunter Wilds acts as a direct successor to 2018’s Monster Hunter: World. Capcom has done quite the promotional run, unveiling several trailers that give players a solid glimpse into the huge open worlds they’ll soon explore. While the abundance of information might take away a bit of the surprise factor, excitement remains high. With its focus on hunting and armor crafting, Monster Hunter Wilds promises to provide an unparalleled gaming experience.
Final Prediction
All these games have fans on tenterhooks, but the one likely to steal the show at The Game Awards 2024 for Most Anticipated Game is Grand Theft Auto 6. No other sequel in gaming has matched its widespread anticipation and appeal, cementing its place as the title to watch in 2025.
For more intriguing insights into gaming’s upcoming hits and dark horses, don’t miss our rundown of 2024’s underrated gems!
