8 Video Games Releasing in April 2025 You Shouldn’t Miss

In April 2025, upcoming video game launches will maintain the pattern of major debuts. Among them are novel titles such as a highly anticipated RPG and a new installment in an established fighting game series. Additionally, some well-known games are being adapted for other systems. Unfortunately, this may not be a significant month for the Nintendo Switch, which is set to move on to make way for its successor; however, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC gamers still have much to anticipate, particularly those with PlayStation Plus Extra or Game Pass subscriptions.

Here’s a sampling of some of the games slated to come to the major consoles and PC in April 2025.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered

The remastered version of “The Last of Us Part 2,” titled “The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered,” surpasses other PlayStation remasters due to its additional content. It retains the extensive and largely acclaimed campaign from the PS4 original (and the subsequent PS5 remaster released a few years after), but it also includes a roguelike mode known as “No Return.

This new feature significantly enhances “The Last of Us Part 2”, making it reminiscent of “Hades” by offering a wealth of content for players to unlock and hurdles to conquer, all while providing a more concentrated area to tinker with the game’s complex combat mechanics. Although this may seemingly contradict the story’s themes of endless cycles of violence – a roguelike mode is essentially a literal cycle of violence – it’s non-canonical and an exciting way to extend your playtime long after the credits roll. Additionally, this PC version is set to launch around the second season of the highly praised HBO series.

Release Date: April 3rd via PC (already on PS5)

South of Midnight

The collection of first-class games exclusive to Xbox is now consistently being rolled out, with “South of Midnight” being the latest addition. This third-person action game, developed by Compulsion Games (known for “We Happy Few”), is set in the Deep South and presents a unique take on a mythology seldom explored within the medium.

Exploring the swamps, absorbing authentic Cajun dialects, and witnessing Southern Gothic folklore unfold are integral elements in Compulsion’s unique method of creating an immersive atmosphere at every corner. This is evident too in its artistic style reminiscent of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” and its animation, which can be toggled off during gameplay for those finding it a bit rough. Despite appearing more like a sensory experience, it also incorporates combat and platforming where players dash about, casting spells, as if they were a mystical Persian prince or princess.

Release Date: April 8th via Xbox Series X|S and PC (will launch on Game Pass)

Tiny Garden

The game title “Tiny Garden” seems invitingly quaint, and the gameplay indeed lives up to that expectation. This Kickstarter project, reminiscent of Polly Pocket, allows players to manage a small garden within a toy model. The cultivated greens can be exchanged for various pieces of furniture that can be arranged in the upper part of the toy. Unlike many games, there are no stressful high scores or time limits; instead, it offers a peaceful experience where players can showcase their gardening skills and personal style.

Release Date: April 8th via PC

Blue Prince

The Unique Game Called Blue Prince stands out from its peers in the crowded genre due to its distinctive lack of combat for a roguelike. Instead, players navigate through a mansion filled with rooms that dynamically change based on the floorplan they choose, thanks to a handy blueprint. The rooms present various puzzles that players must solve to progress and uncover the enigma behind Room 46, all while juggling resources. Notably, this innovative puzzle game has garnered the attention of Inscryption creator Daniel Mullins, who praised it as his “favorite game” of 2023 before its release.

The Game is Set to Debut on: April 10th, Available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Notably, it will be accessible through Game Pass and PlayStation Plus Extra upon release.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game deeply rooted in French culture and carrying the essence of a classic JRPG, presents an experience reminiscent of games from the PlayStation 1 or 2 era like Final Fantasy or modern Persona titles. However, it also includes some surprising elements. The combat system, typically turn-based, incorporates real-time components to bring an extra layer of excitement.

In this game, players can execute Quick Time Events (QTEs) for increased attack damage, while skillfully timing dodges and parries against the enemy’s barrage of bashes and slashes. Stunning visual effects and powerful sound design amplify the experience, reinforcing comparisons to Sekiro that Sandfall Interactive has emphasized. Additionally, the Belle Époque setting and magical aspects set Clair Obscur apart from other RPGs, as it’s not common for games of this genre to be based in that time and region.

Release Date: April 24th via PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (will launch on Game Pass)

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

In recent years, we’ve seen frequent releases of games like Tekken, Mortal Kombat, and Street Fighter. However, since 1999, there hasn’t been a new Fatal Fury game. But now, the long-awaited Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is here, offering a richly detailed addition to the series. This 2D fighter seems to be targeting hardcore gamers with its Just Defense, high/low crush, and Rev systems, as well as three types of jumps and feint cancels.

Similarly to other combat games, it will feature an easy-to-grasp control system and a standalone RPG mode for beginners. Additionally, it’s designed to appeal to Street Fighter enthusiasts, as Chun-Li and Ken are planned as downloadable characters at a later stage.

Release Date: April 24th via PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC

Days Gone Remastered

Instead of just “The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered,” another zombie-themed PlayStation game is receiving a remaster in April – it’s “Days Gone Remastered.” Similar to “The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered,” this enhanced version brings new elements: permadeath, speedrun modes, and a survival mode called Horde Assault. The Horde Assault mode leverages the power of PC and PS5 by providing larger groups of enemies (Freakers) and increasing difficulty as you survive for longer periods. Advancing in rank unlocks additional characters, cosmetics, and gameplay adjustments.

Apart from offering better compatibility with the DualSense controller and additional accessibility options, the game is expected to boast a superior visual experience, with extended foliage draw distance, enhanced shadow and lighting effects, 3D Tempest audio technology, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support. Sony’s claims for this version of Days Gone suggest it will surpass what a standard update could achieve. Owners of the original PS4 game who did not obtain it through PlayStation Plus can upgrade to the PS5 version for $10, while those with the PC port can purchase the new features as the Broken Roads DLC pack for $10.

Release Date: April 25th via PS5 and PC

Forza Horizon 5

In contrast to some PlayStation games moving to other platforms, Forza Horizon 5 is breaking the trend as it’s making its debut on the PS5. This marks the first time that Xbox’s popular open-world driving series, Forza Horizon, will be available on a PlayStation console. For longtime PlayStation enthusiasts, this 2021 release could offer a completely new experience. However, even for them, there are still several fresh features like a dynamic weather system and ray tracing (in the ForzaVista mode).

Although PlayStation players have been patiently waiting for this port, they’ll enjoy the advantages of over 40 updates the game has received since its launch. Additional content will also be released, but it won’t come with the standard edition. However, fresh material is in development across all platforms as Horizon Realms, a compilation of the game’s seasonal trials.

Release Date: April 29th via PS5 (already on Xbox Series X|S and PC)

6 Honorable Mentions

Here’s a few more titles worth looking into in the month of April:

Descenders Next (April 9th) Trailer
Promise Mascot Agency (April 10th) Trailer
The Talos Principle: Reawakened (April 10th) Trailer
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 2 (April 15th) Trailer
Rusty Rabbit (April 17th) Trailer

2025-03-27 20:43