My top 5 must-play PC games for the second half of 2025 — Will they live up to the hype?

2025 has been quite exciting for video game enthusiasts who prefer PC platforms! By any chance, have you managed to conquer DOOM: The Dark Ages yet? There’s a host of other anticipated or even rumored titles on their way in the second part of the year as well.

It suits me perfectly since I immediately return to my gaming chair once the summer heat subsides. Plus, with a Ryzen 7 9800X3D and an RTX 5070 Ti, I’m fully prepared for any challenges game developers might send my way.

Here are my top five most anticipated PC games that I hope to play in the second half of 2025.

5. The Outer Worlds 2

Playing The Outer Worlds reminded me of the classic role-playing games, a fitting resemblance given that it was crafted by the talented team behind Fallout: New Vegas and Knights of the Old Republic II, namely Obsidian Entertainment.

I truly appreciate the playful humor, bizarre plotlines, engaging exploration, and first-person shooting action found in these types of games, and The Outer Worlds 2 should deliver what I crave: A contemporary science fiction RPG in space that doesn’t mimic Starfield.

On this occasion, you are dispatched to establish a fresh settlement as an emissary of the Earth Directive, tasked with solving an enigma surrounding abnormal fissures that pose a catastrophic threat to humanity’s existence.

A definite release date hasn’t been announced as of now, but there are persistent whispers suggesting that the launch will take place in 2025 for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 5.

👉 The Outer Worlds 2 gets a new look at gameplay, showing combat, stealth, and more

4. Hades II

Since 2024, Hades II has been accessible for early play on PC, and during this time, it has gathered an impressive number of favorable reviews, totaling tens of thousands, on Steam.

Title II of Hades is an engaging action role-playing game where you assume the character of Melinoë, the sister to the initial game’s hero. The experience is filled with repetitive action sequences, intricate combo moves that can shake up the game, stunning visuals, and a rich tapestry of Greek mythology.

The specific launch date hasn’t been announced yet, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will be in the latter part of 2025. Given that the original Hades game is among my all-time favorites, I’m definitely going to play this new one without a doubt.

To resist the urge, I’ve steered clear of the Early Access material and updates about the game’s content. I eagerly anticipate diving into the complete game, as intended for the perfect experience.

3. ARC Raiders

In 2021, ARC Raiders was unveiled, and more recently, significant technology trials have taken place, showcasing a multitude of impressive gameplay footage.

The extract-and-shoot game set in the ’80s, combining stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and impressive audio, left me thoroughly impressed. A hint of nostalgia lingers with its retro vibe.

Since I started playing Escape from Tarkov, I’ve been searching for another extract-based shooter that can match its feel, and this one might just do it. Switching to a third-person perspective is quite refreshing compared to all the first-person shooter games out there.

As an analyst, I can share that while Embark Studios has yet to officially confirm a fixed release date, there are whispers suggesting a potential launch in the year 2025. If these speculations hold true, players on PC, Xbox, and PS5 platforms may get their hands on this anticipated game soon.

2. Escape from Tarkov

Escape from Tarkov is a unique game that pioneered the extraction shooter genre, and so far, nothing quite like it exists for PC gamers. Released initially as a closed beta in 2017 after a year-long closed alpha phase, it has continued to stay in this developmental stage.

Indeed, it has been in its beta phase for approximately eight years. One might expect it to be nearly flawless at this point, but alas, it remains an amusingly glitch-ridden chaos, struggling to maintain a stable 20 frames per second on some of the most potent computer systems available.

Why give it a try? Long-term Tarkov players will agree on one point: no other game provides the same thrill. From personal experience, it’s a game that gets your adrenaline pumping, your hands trembling, and your emotions stirred up.

This game offers an ideal blend of immersive first-person shooting, comprehensive item collection, and role-playing storylines. The creators, Battlestate Games, have unveiled a timeline that includes a version 1.0 launch in 2025, culminating nearly a decade’s worth of development work.

As a dedicated follower, I eagerly await the possibility that developers might accomplish what seems almost unattainable by the year 2026. Time will only tell!

1. Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition

I tend to underestimate the significance of the Stronghold series from FireFly Studios in my past, yet it held just as much importance to me during my childhood as games such as Age of Empires 2 and Diablo 2 did.

The initial Stronghold game held me spellbound due to its intricate castle construction, resource management, and grand battles, while its sequel, Crusader, significantly enhanced almost all aspects of the game.

2002 saw the debut of Crusader, and it’s fascinating to consider its evolution through the years. My anticipation is running high due to the upcoming release of a revamped Definitive Edition, slated for PC on July 15th.

Eight fresh units, four brand-new rulers for the enemy side, expanded campaigns, and larger battlefields supporting a greater number of units in skirmish mode are now available.

Clearly, the graphics have undergone a significant upgrade, and based on the demonstration, it appears that the developers have meticulously reworked every aspect to preserve the original atmosphere.

Speaking of the demo, it’s available to download from Steam right now as we await the full launch.

Honorable mention — Path of Exile 2

On December 6, 2024, the early access for Path of Exile 2 was unveiled, instantly grabbing my focus.

In essence, this action role-playing game (ARPG) bears a strong resemblance to Diablo 2, featuring a more measured tempo, a somber ambiance, and greater challenge. After investing countless hours post-early access debut, I’m currently biding my time, eagerly awaiting the final release.

It remains uncertain when the full launch will take place, as Developer Grinding Gear Games hasn’t specified a date yet. The timing might be influenced by the progress of the development process.

At its initial release, Path of Exile 2 is planned to be a free-to-play game. However, if you want to gain early access, you can do so by purchasing a supporter pack. Right now, you can grab one from CDKeys for $17.39.

What PC games are you most anticipating in 2025?

Of course! I’d love to hear about the PC games that have you all fired up. I’m really interested in getting your take on the ones you’ve chosen.

I’d love to hear about the games you’re looking forward to the most! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.

2025-06-01 16:10