We’re deep into 2025, and the PlayStation 5 has finally hit its stride. The console shortage nightmare is behind us, the library has matured, and developers have figured out how to actually leverage the hardware. After a few years of cross-gen releases holding things back, we’re finally seeing true current-gen experiences that couldn’t exist on PS4.
But here’s what matters right now: what’s actually coming to PS5 in 2025 and beyond? Whether you’re a day-one adopter who’s been waiting for the library to fill out, someone who just recently snagged a console, or you’re still on the fence about upgrading, knowing what’s on the horizon matters.
I’ve been following the PS5 release calendar religiously, tracking announcements from State of Plays, industry events, and developer updates. The landscape looks genuinely exciting. We’ve got PlayStation exclusives that showcase what the console can do, massive third-party releases that will dominate the conversation, and indie darlings that deserve your attention.
This isn’t a comprehensive list of every single game coming to PS5. That would be hundreds of titles, most mediocre or forgettable. This is a curated guide to the games actually worth watching: the exclusives that justify owning the console, the multi-platform releases you’ll want to experience on PS5, and the surprises that might become your favorite games of the year.
Let’s break down what’s coming, what’s confirmed, what’s likely, and what you should be excited about as we move through the rest of 2025 and peek into 2026.
PlayStation Exclusives (Console or Timed)
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Release Window: 2025 (likely Q4) Developer: Kojima Productions Status: Confirmed PS5 console exclusive
Hideo Kojima’s follow-up to his divisive 2019 walking simulator (or brilliant social commentary, depending on who you ask) is one of PlayStation’s biggest exclusives for 2025.
What we know:
- Norman Reedus returns as Sam Porter Bridges
- Expanded gameplay mechanics beyond delivery
- New characters including Léa Seydoux and others
- More action-oriented than the original
- Photo mode confirmed with expanded features
- Kojima’s typical cinematic storytelling and weird brilliance
Why it matters:
Death Stranding was polarizing but found a dedicated audience. The sequel promises to address criticisms (more combat, varied gameplay) while doubling down on what worked (atmosphere, world-building, social systems). If you loved the original, this is an easy day-one purchase. If you hated it, this probably won’t convert you. If you never tried it, the sequel might be a better entry point.
My take: Kojima games are always cultural events regardless of quality. Death Stranding 2 will dominate conversation when it drops, and the PS5’s SSD should eliminate the original’s loading issues.
Ghost of Yotei
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Sucker Punch Productions Status: PS5 exclusive
The follow-up to Ghost of Tsushima, one of the PS4’s best late-generation releases, shifts the setting forward in time and introduces a new protagonist.
What we know:
- Set in 1603, 300+ years after Ghost of Tsushima
- New protagonist: Atsu, a female warrior
- Location: Hokkaido (northern Japan)
- Evolution of sword combat and stealth systems
- Likely online component building on Legends mode success
Why it’s exciting:
Ghost of Tsushima was gorgeous, played beautifully, and told a compelling story. Sucker Punch now has PS5 hardware to work with from the ground up. Expect faster loading (that seamless travel), better visual fidelity, and DualSense implementation that makes sword combat feel even more visceral.
The decision to move forward in time and change protagonists shows confidence in the world they’ve built rather than just retreading Jin’s story.
Potential concerns: High expectations after the original’s success. Can lightning strike twice?
Wolverine
Release Window: TBD (2025 possible, 2026 more likely) Developer: Insomniac Games Status: PS5 exclusive
Insomniac’s take on Marvel’s most popular X-Man has been in development since the 2021 reveal, and based on the studio’s track record, expectations are sky-high.
What we know:
- Mature rating confirmed (appropriate for Wolverine)
- Set in Insomniac’s Marvel universe (same world as Spider-Man)
- Healing factor mechanic integral to gameplay
- Claws, obviously
- Story details remain tightly guarded
Why anticipation is huge:
Insomniac elevated superhero gaming with Spider-Man and Spider-Man 2. Their understanding of character powers translating to gameplay mechanics is unmatched. Wolverine’s berserker rage, healing factor, and brutal combat style should create something distinct from their web-slinging games.
The mature rating suggests they’re not holding back on violence, which is essential for Logan.
The uncertainty: No concrete release date yet. Insomniac was hit hard by ransomware leaks that exposed development details. The game is coming, but timing remains unclear. I’d bet on 2026 over 2025, but surprises happen.
Fairgame$
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Haven Studios Status: PS5 console exclusive (PC also)
Haven Studios’ debut title under PlayStation Studios ownership is a heist-themed PvPvE game focused on competitive multiplayer.
What we know:
- Multiplayer-focused heist gameplay
- Competitive teams stealing from the ultra-wealthy
- Modern setting with social commentary
- Haven Studios founded by Jade Raymond (Assassin’s Creed producer)
- Live-service model expected
The big question: Will it succeed?
Live-service multiplayer games are extremely risky. For every Destiny or Fortnite, there are dozens of failed attempts. Haven has talent, and the heist premise is compelling, but execution will determine success.
PlayStation’s live-service push has been mixed (Helldivers 2 succeeded, Concord failed spectacularly). Fairgame$ needs to nail the core gameplay loop to survive the brutal multiplayer market.
My cautious optimism: Wait for reviews and player feedback. Live-service games live or die in first weeks post-launch.
Major Third-Party Releases
Grand Theft Auto VI
Release Window: Late 2025 (November/December) or Early 2026 Developer: Rockstar Games Status: Multi-platform (PS5, Xbox Series X/S)
The elephant in the room. The most anticipated game in years. The title that will dominate 2025 or 2026 depending on when it actually drops.
Why it’s on a PS5 list:
While multi-platform, GTA 6 will be a system seller and define the generation. PlayStation’s marketing partnership with Rockstar suggests PS5 will be the console to play it on.
What to expect:
- Vice City (Miami) setting confirmed
- Dual protagonists: Lucia and Jason
- Bonnie and Clyde-inspired narrative
- Massive open world larger than GTA V
- Current-gen exclusive (no PS4/Xbox One)
PS5-specific advantages:
- Fast loading leveraging SSD
- DualSense features (trigger feedback for driving, shooting)
- Activity Cards for quick mission access
- Likely marketing and potentially timed DLC
GTA 6 is the biggest release of the year regardless of platform. On PS5, it should be the definitive console experience.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Capcom Status: Multi-platform
Capcom’s Monster Hunter franchise has exploded in popularity in the West. Wilds is the next mainline entry built for current-gen.
What’s new:
- Seamless open world (no loading between zones)
- Dynamic weather affecting monster behavior
- Rideable creatures for traversal
- Enhanced character creator
- Focus mode for precise attacks
Why PS5 matters:
Monster Hunter World was huge on PlayStation. The community is established, and PS5’s hardware enables the seamless world Capcom envisioned. The DualSense should provide fantastic feedback for weapon impacts and monster roars.
Co-op hunting with friends on PS5 will be this game’s primary appeal. If you loved World and Rise, Wilds is a guaranteed purchase.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Release Window: 2025 (delayed from November 2024) Developer: Ubisoft Status: Multi-platform
After years of fan requests, Assassin’s Creed finally goes to feudal Japan with dual protagonists: Yasuke (the historical African samurai) and Naoe (a shinobi).
What to expect:
- Dual protagonist system (like AC Syndicate)
- Yasuke: Heavy combat, samurai playstyle
- Naoe: Stealth focus, ninja tactics
- RPG mechanics from recent AC titles
- Parkour improvements
- Gorgeous recreation of historical Japan
PS5 features:
- Fast travel with minimal loading
- DualSense implementation for combat feedback
- 4K/60fps performance options
- Japanese voice acting option with subtitles
The Japan setting automatically makes this interesting to fans who’ve waited decades. Whether it delivers depends on Ubisoft avoiding the bloat that plagued Valhalla.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Release Window: 2025 Developer: id Software Status: Multi-platform
The Doom Slayer returns in a prequel set in a medieval-inspired world mixing demons with Dark Ages aesthetics.
What we know:
- Prequel to Doom (2016) and Eternal
- Medieval setting with Doom’s signature brutality
- Shield mechanics (block and bash)
- Rideable demon dragon
- Signature fast-paced combat with new mechanics
Why it matters:
Doom 2016 and Eternal revitalized the franchise with modern mechanics while respecting the classic’s spirit. The Dark Ages’ medieval twist provides fresh aesthetic while maintaining what works.
On PS5, expect silky-smooth performance (id Tech engine is optimized masterfully) and DualSense feedback that makes every shotgun blast feel punchy.
PlayStation VR2 Highlights
Behemoth
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Skydance Interactive Status: PSVR2 exclusive
A dark fantasy action game where you fight colossal creatures in VR, designed specifically for PSVR2’s capabilities.
What makes it special:
- Massive boss battles in VR
- Climbing and environmental interaction
- Melee combat with realistic physicality
- Eye-tracking integration (PSVR2 feature)
- Haptic feedback throughout headset
PSVR2 has struggled with software support. Behemoth represents a major exclusive that could drive headset adoption. If you own PSVR2, this is worth watching.
Metro Awakening
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Vertigo Games Status: Multi-platform VR
The Metro series comes to VR with a story set before Metro 2033.
Why it’s exciting for PSVR2:
- Atmospheric horror perfect for VR immersion
- Established franchise with strong lore
- Stealth and survival mechanics translate well to VR
- PSVR2’s visual fidelity enhances Metro’s dark tunnels
VR horror is a niche genre, but Metro’s survival focus could broaden appeal beyond pure horror enthusiasts.
Indie and AA Games Worth Your Time
Judas
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Ghost Story Games (Ken Levine) Status: Multi-platform
Ken Levine’s first game since BioShock Infinite promises narrative-driven FPS gameplay with emergent storytelling.
What’s intriguing:
- Narrative Legos system (replayable story with variations)
- FPS gameplay from BioShock’s creator
- Science fiction setting on a spaceship
- Focus on relationships affecting story outcomes
The concern: Development has been long, and Levine’s ambitious narrative systems might not deliver as promised. But the BioShock pedigree makes this impossible to ignore.
Replaced
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Sad Cat Studios Status: Console exclusive (Xbox and PS5)
A 2.5D sci-fi action platformer with stunning pixel art and retrofuturistic aesthetics.
Why it stands out:
- Gorgeous pixel art with modern lighting
- Cyberpunk narrative
- Fast-paced platforming and combat
- Cinematic presentation despite 2D perspective
Indies like Replaced show that you don’t need AAA budgets to create visually stunning experiences. PS5’s SSD should keep the action flowing without interruption.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Release Window: TBD (2025 hopeful, but who knows) Developer: Team Cherry Status: Multi-platform
The long-awaited sequel to one of the best Metroidvanias ever made. Will it actually release in 2025? Your guess is as good as mine.
Why the hype:
- Hollow Knight is beloved (masterpiece-tier)
- New protagonist: Hornet
- New kingdom to explore
- Expanded mechanics and abilities
- Team Cherry’s meticulous attention to detail
The uncertainty: Team Cherry has gone radio silent for extended periods. The game will release when it’s ready, and rushing them would be a mistake. But fans are understandably antsy after years of waiting.
If Silksong drops in 2025, it’ll be an event. If it doesn’t, we’ll keep waiting.
Sword of the Sea
Release Window: 2025 Developer: Giant Squid (Abzu, The Pathless) Status: Multi-platform
A exploration-focused adventure where you traverse a dried ocean on a hoverbike, from the creators of Journey-like experiences.
What to expect:
- Stunning art direction
- Meditative gameplay
- Environmental storytelling
- Focus on atmosphere over combat
Giant Squid makes chill, beautiful games perfect for unwinding. Sword of the Sea looks like their most ambitious yet, and PS5’s capabilities should make the world gorgeous and seamless.
Likely 2026 But Worth Mentioning
Marvel’s Spider-Man 3
Release Window: 2026 or later Developer: Insomniac Games Status: PS5 exclusive (likely)
Not confirmed for 2025, but Insomniac’s track record suggests they’re working on it.
What to expect:
- Conclusion of the trilogy started in 2018
- Venom storyline continuation
- Likely dual Spider-Men (Peter and Miles)
- New York expanded or new location
- Symbiote mechanics refined
Insomniac releases games efficiently. Spider-Man 2 dropped in 2023. A 2026 release for Spider-Man 3 isn’t unreasonable, but it’s speculation until officially announced.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Part 3
Release Window: 2027 likely, but development ongoing Developer: Square Enix Status: Likely timed PS5 exclusive
The conclusion of the FFVII Remake trilogy is in development, but don’t expect it soon.
Why it matters:
Remake and Rebirth were excellent. Part 3 will conclude one of gaming’s most beloved stories reimagined for modern audiences. When it comes (2027 realistic), it’ll be massive.
What We’re Still Waiting to Hear About
The Last of Us Part III
Status: Not officially announced Speculation: Likely in early development
Naughty Dog hasn’t confirmed Part III, but it’s inevitable. Neil Druckmann has stated he knows how the story would continue. After Part II’s divisive but critically acclaimed reception, a third entry will happen eventually.
Don’t expect announcements until 2026 at earliest, release probably 2028+.
God of War: Valhalla Follow-Up
Status: Unknown
Ragnarök concluded the Norse saga beautifully. Where Kratos goes next (Egyptian mythology? Celtic?) remains unknown. Santa Monica Studio is working on something, but details are nonexistent.
Horizon 3
Status: Likely in development Timeline: 2027+
Guerrilla Games will continue Aloy’s story, but after Forbidden West in 2022 and the Burning Shores DLC, the team deserves time. A third entry is years away.
Games That Might Surprise Us
Sometimes the best games are ones we didn’t see coming. Here are wildcards:
Silent Hill 2 Remake Follow-Ups
Bloober Team’s Silent Hill 2 Remake released in 2024 to positive reception. If successful, expect more Silent Hill projects announced for PS5.
Kojima’s Next Projects
Beyond Death Stranding 2, Kojima Productions is working on other titles including a potential horror game. Kojima always has multiple projects cooking.
Square Enix Surprises
Square always has something in development: Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, new IPs. State of Play reveals often include Square announcements.
PlayStation London Studio Projects
Various PlayStation Studios teams have unannounced projects. Sony’s investment in first-party development means surprises at showcases.
How to Stay Informed
Official Sources
PlayStation Blog:
- Official announcements and updates
- Behind-the-scenes developer interviews
- Release date confirmations
State of Play Presentations:
- Regular showcases throughout the year
- Major reveals and gameplay demos
- Usually 20-40 minutes, dense with announcements
Developer Social Media:
- Follow studios directly for updates
- Twitter/X, Instagram, official websites
- Community managers often tease announcements
Credible Gaming Media
Tier 1 (Most Reliable):
- IGN, GameSpot, Polygon for news
- Jason Schreier (Bloomberg) for investigative reporting
- Eurogamer, GamesRadar for European perspective
Tier 2 (Generally Trustworthy):
- VGC (Video Games Chronicle)
- Game Informer
- Kotaku
Avoid:
- Clickbait YouTube channels with “MASSIVE PS5 NEWS!!!” thumbnails
- Reddit leaks without verification
- Anonymous 4chan posts
- TikTok “insiders”
Community Resources
r/PS5 subreddit:
- News aggregation
- Mods filter obvious fakes
- Community discussions
PlayStation Trophy Sites:
- PSNProfiles, TrueTrophies
- Sometimes leak games before announcement (trophy lists appear)
Making Your 2025 Gaming Plan
Budget Considerations
Realistic budgeting:
If you’re buying games at $70 launch price:
- 1-2 games per month maximum for most people ($840-1680 annually)
- Strategic purchasing around sales (Black Friday, PlayStation sales)
- Subscription services (PS Plus Extra/Premium) provide value
Prioritization strategy:
Tier 1 (Day-one purchases):
- Exclusive franchises you love
- Multi-platform titles where PS5 is preferred platform
- Games you’ll play immediately
Tier 2 (Wait for sale):
- Interesting but not essential
- Games you’re uncertain about
- Titles likely to drop price within 3-6 months
Tier 3 (Wait for deep discount or skip):
- Mild interest
- Backlog too large already
- Can experience via subscription service
Managing the Backlog
Reality check:
Most gamers have a backlog of 10-50+ unplayed games. Buying everything creates guilt and waste.
Smart consumption:
- Finish or abandon current game before buying next
- PS Plus monthly games add to backlog (be selective about downloading)
- Resist FOMO; games don’t disappear
- Sales happen constantly; waiting saves money
The 10-hour rule:
If you haven’t touched a game in 10+ hours of ownership, admit you’re not playing it. Sell, trade, or accept the sunk cost and move on.
The State of PS5 in 2025
What’s Improved
Hardware availability:
- PS5s readily available at MSRP
- Special editions and bundles common
- No more scalper nightmare
Software library maturity:
- 100+ games leveraging PS5 features
- True current-gen experiences
- Back catalog via PS Plus
System features:
- VRR (variable refresh rate) support
- 1440p output option
- Folders and UI improvements via updates
- Expanded SSD storage options affordable
Remaining Pain Points
Lack of revolutionary exclusives:
- Many “exclusives” are timed or PC-bound
- First-party output slower than PS4 era
- Live-service focus hasn’t paid off yet
Price:
- $500-550 still expensive for many
- Games at $70 standard pricing
- Accessories costly (DualSense $75, PSVR2 $550)
Backwards compatibility limitations:
- No PS1, PS2, PS3 native support
- Streaming only for legacy titles (requires good internet)
- Compared to Xbox’s broader BC, PS5 lags
Conclusion
2025 and beyond for PS5 looks genuinely exciting. The combination of first-party exclusives (Death Stranding 2, Ghost of Yotei, eventually Wolverine), massive third-party releases (GTA 6, Monster Hunter Wilds, Assassin’s Creed Shadows), and compelling indies creates a well-rounded lineup.
Is it the best year in PlayStation history? Probably not. The PS2 and PS4 eras had absurd libraries. But compared to the PS5’s first few years of cross-gen releases and delays, we’re finally seeing what the console can actually do.
The key is being selective. You don’t need every game. Choose what genuinely excites you, wait for reviews on uncertain titles, and take advantage of sales. The games aren’t going anywhere, and your backlog is already too large.
Whether you’re a hardcore enthusiast buying everything day-one or a casual player picking up 3-4 titles per year, PS5 has something for you in 2025. The question isn’t whether good games are coming. It’s which ones you’ll actually have time to play.
What’s your most anticipated PS5 game for the rest of 2025? Are you more excited for the exclusives or the massive third-party releases? How many games from this list will you realistically buy versus wait for sales? Share your gaming plans in the comments. I’m genuinely curious what resonates with different types of players, and whether I’m sleeping on something that should’ve made this list.
FAQ: PS5 Games 2025
What is the biggest PS5 exclusive coming in 2025?
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach and Ghost of Yotei are the most significant confirmed PS5 exclusives for 2025. Both are from top-tier developers (Kojima Productions and Sucker Punch) with proven track records. Death Stranding 2 likely releases Q4 2025, while Ghost of Yotei’s timing is less clear. Marvel’s Wolverine from Insomniac is possible but more likely 2026.
Will GTA 6 come out in 2025?
Officially targeted for late 2025 (November/December), but early 2026 delay is possible. Rockstar and Take-Two have consistently stated Fall 2025, but the studio’s history includes frequent delays for polish. The game will launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S simultaneously (no PC version at launch). Expect final confirmation in Trailer 2, likely dropping Q4 2025.
Are PS5 games still $70?
Yes, first-party PlayStation exclusives and most major third-party releases maintain $70 standard pricing. Some publishers (like EA and Ubisoft) charge $70 for standard editions and $80-100 for deluxe versions. Indie games typically cost $15-40. Waiting 3-6 months often yields $40-50 prices, and sales frequently discount further. PS Plus Extra/Premium subscriptions provide access to many games without individual purchases.
What PS5 games are worth buying in 2025?
Prioritize based on your preferences: Death Stranding 2 for unique Kojima experiences, Ghost of Yotei for action-adventure samurai gameplay, GTA 6 for open-world mayhem, Monster Hunter Wilds for co-op hunting, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows for the long-awaited Japan setting. Wait for reviews before purchasing, as hype doesn’t always match quality. Your backlog is probably already large, so be selective.
Is PS5 worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you can afford it and want current-gen experiences. The console is readily available at $500 (standard) or $450 (digital). The library has matured significantly with exclusives, third-party games, and backwards compatibility for PS4 titles. However, if you’re satisfied with PS4 or have a gaming PC, waiting for PS5 Pro (if interested) or further price drops is reasonable. Many upcoming games are also on Xbox Series X/S or PC.
Sources & Additional Resources
- PlayStation Blog – Official PlayStation News – Official announcements, release dates, and developer interviews
- IGN’s PS5 Release Calendar – Comprehensive tracking of confirmed and rumored release dates
- Push Square – PlayStation-focused news site covering announcements, reviews, and community discussions