As the calendar turned to 2025, fans started to get excited about all the upcoming video game releases. January was a relatively quiet month, as it is with most entertainment industries. The holiday season is a huge time for new releases, and the industry takes a small break on releases as the year starts. For many gamers, the shortest month of the year is when the new year kicks off for video games. There are countless releases, but here are the top three titles fans are anticipating the most.
1. The Top Video Game Releases: Civilization VII
- Release date: February 11
- Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch
It’s time for the next installment in the turn-based strategy game. Firaxis is releasing the next version of the ever-popular video game. This version is a huge change from past versions. Developers have warned long-time players that even they may need to play the tutorial. The game is broken up into three ages. For the first time ever, players are able to change civilizations and leaders when the age changes, opening up new possibilities to stack abilities. The diplomacy mechanic has also been heavily updated after it was introduced in Civilization VI. It is more nuanced and players will have to pay attention closely. Fans are excited to get their hands on this game in just over a week.
2. Monster Hunter Wilds
- Release date: February 28
- Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Gamers will have to wait until the end of the month for this video game, but it promises to be worth it. Fans and critics have widely praised Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise. The open betas for Wilds have been positively received by fans. Players will spend hours hunting deadly beasts and ferocious creatures. New mechanics promise to give players brand-new ways to defeat monsters, giving the game familiarity while also feeling fresh. This is the best series that no one knows about. The lay public knows about Mario and other popular titles, but Monster Hunter is a video game that you can get lost in and have a blast.
3. PGA 2K25
- Release date: February 28
- Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
If you aren’t a sports person, it may seem ridiculous to be excited about a sports video game. However, at its core, every sports game is simply a life simulation game just involving sports. The challenge of any sports game is to immerse players in the sport as much as possible. PGA 2K25 boasts an impressive roster of the game’s top names and courses. The studio is boasting a new “EvoSwing” swing system that promises to make every player unique. The rhythm for the perfect swing will be based on a variety of factors. Sports games are always popular amongst fans and the new innovations make this one of the most highly anticipated releases.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of other video game releases in February. A ton of indie games that gamers have on their wishlists are releasing in February. Some are fun mash-ups of two different game styles, while others are remasters of classic series. Regardless, there is something for every gamer’s pallet releasing this month. What release are you most excited to get your hands on?