7 best Games to play in 2025 after GTA 6 delayed to May 2026

With Rockstar confirming that Grand Theft Auto VI is now slated for a May 2026 release, fans are left wondering how to fill the wait. While the hype for GTA 6 remains sky-high, the extended timeline opens up a golden opportunity to dive into other standout games launching or gaining serious momentum in 2025.

Here are seven games that are worth your time this year.

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1. Star Wars Outlaws

What it is: An open-world action-adventure in the Star Wars universe, set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.

Why try it?

• You play as Kay Vess, a space smuggler who needs to pull off big heists.
• You explore different planets, sneak past enemies, and fly your own ship.
• If you like freedom to choose how to play, stealth or full-on action - this game offers both styles.

Key features:

• Huge landscapes from icy worlds to dusty deserts.
• Dialogue choices that affect how others see you.
• A mix of ground missions and space dogfights.

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2. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl

What it is: A survival-shooter set in a radioactive zone around Chernobyl (called “Chornobyl” in the game).

Why try it?

• It feels tense and spooky as you never know what mutant monster or rival stalker might appear.
• You must manage supplies like food, ammo, and protective gear.
• The story asks you to make tough choices that change what happens next.

Key features:

• Realistic weather and day-night cycle—rain and storms affect visibility.
• Hidden bases and secret bunkers to explore.
• Crafting system to build tools and weapons from scavenged parts.

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3. Avowed

What it is: A first-person fantasy RPG set in the world of Pillars of Eternity, made by Obsidian Entertainment.

Why try it?

• You learn magic spells, choose a companion, and take on epic quests to save the land.
• Your decisions shape the story. For example, do you help the common folk or side with powerful nobles?
• It has deep lore—perfect if you enjoy learning about the world’s history and legends.

Key features:

• Variety of combat: sword-and-shield, bows, and different schools of magic.
• Character creation with many options (race, class, appearance).
• Complex dialogue that can open or close quest paths.

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4. Silent Hill 2 Remake

What it is: A modern redo of the classic psychological horror game Silent Hill 2.

Why try it?

• It keeps the eerie story but updates graphics and controls.
• The atmosphere is heavy with fog, strange noises, and unsettling sights.
• The plot dives into the mind of the main character, James, as he searches for his lost wife.

Key features:

• Remade 3D environments that feel more detailed and real.
• Refined combat so you can decide whether to fight or hide.
• Sound design that uses music and effects to heighten tension.

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5. Dragon Age: Dreadwolf

What it is: The next main entry in BioWare’s Dragon Age series.

Why try it?

• You meet new heroes and villains in a world full of magic, dragons, and political conflict.
• Past choices (from earlier games) can carry over, though the game also works for newcomers.
• It’s known for deep character relationships—your friendships or romances affect the outcome.

Key features:

• Real-time with pause combat: you can slow time, pick skills, and coordinate attacks.
• Branching storylines where one decision might close one door and open another.
• Vast regions to explore, from snowy mountains to swamps teeming with creatures.

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6. Black Myth: Wukong

What it is: An action RPG based on the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West, made by a Chinese studio.

Why try it?

• You play as Sun Wukong (the Monkey King), full of tricks, magic staff, and shapeshifting powers.
• The fighting style is fast and challenging, with combos, counters, and special moves.
• The art style mixes realistic landscapes with mythical creatures drawn from Chinese folklore.

Key features:

• Boss fights that test your timing and strategy.
• Unlock new forms (like turning into a giant ape) for different combat advantages.
• Hidden side areas with puzzles and treasures.

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7. Hades II (Early Access)

What it is: The sequel to the popular roguelike Hades, now available in early access form.

Why try it?

• Fast-paced action where you fight through rooms of enemies, die, and try again—each run is different.
• The story builds over many runs, revealing more about the new hero, Melinoë, daughter of Hades.
• The game balance and writing are strong, making each playthrough feel rewarding.

Key features:

• Countless weapon and boon combinations keep gameplay fresh.
• Rich, colorful art and engaging music.
• Characters from Greek mythology with new twists.

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How to Choose Your Next Game

1. Think about the world you like

• Sci-fi (Star Wars Outlaws)
• Horror (Silent Hill 2 Remake, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2)
• Fantasy (Avowed, Dragon Age)
• Mythology (Black Myth: Wukong, Hades II)

1. Consider gameplay style

• Open world vs. structured levels
• Action combat vs. stealth or strategy
• Single-player story vs. replayable challenge

1. Look at what you’ve played before

• If you loved the first Hades, try Hades II.
• If you enjoy deep stories with choices, go for Avowed or Dragon Age.

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Waiting until May 2026 for GTA 6 might feel long, but 2025 is still full of interesting adventures. Whether you want to explore far-off galaxies, survive in a creepy wasteland, or duel mighty beasts, there’s a game in this list for you.

Each title brings something different, so pick one that matches what you enjoy most and have fun.