As we step into 2025, the gaming landscape is poised for significant developments, particularly following a tumultuous 2024 marked by widespread layoffs and studio closures in the industry. Despite these challenges, there is a palpable sense of optimism for the upcoming year, with two major releases expected to dominate the conversation: Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) and Nintendo’s new console.
The anticipation surrounding GTA 6 is unprecedented. Set to launch in autumn 2025, this highly awaited sequel arrives 12 years after the record-breaking release of GTA 5. The initial trailer for GTA 6 shattered records, garnering an astonishing 90 million views within 24 hours of its debut last December. James Batchelor, editor-in-chief of GamesIndustry.biz, noted, “The anticipation for this is impossible to measure,” suggesting that this game could become one of the largest launches in gaming history.
While developer Rockstar has been somewhat reticent about revealing extensive details, fans are eager to learn more about the dual protagonists and the vibrant, Florida-inspired setting known as Leonida. There remains a lingering concern regarding the potential for a delayed release, a fate that has befallen previous Rockstar titles. However, Batchelor has not seen any indications of a postponement—yet. He cautions that if substantial information is not released by summer, the possibility of a 2026 launch could become more likely.
The impact of GTA 6 on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. George Osborn, a consultant and author of the Video Games Industry Memo newsletter, predicts that the game’s cultural significance will invigorate the market, encouraging consumers to purchase more titles. This phenomenon may prompt other publishers to strategically release their games either early in the year or delay them until 2026 to avoid competing with such a monumental launch.
GTA 6 is expected to help sales of the PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox
In addition to GTA 6, several other notable titles are set for release in 2025, including Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Sony’s Ghost of Yōtei, and Civilization VII. The challenge for these developers will be to navigate the pre-existing hype surrounding GTA 6 while maximizing their own game launches.
Furthermore, GTA 6 will be released first on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles, with a subsequent PC launch. This exclusivity is expected to encourage gamers still using previous-generation consoles to upgrade, particularly as Batchelor estimates that PlayStation 4 users currently account for 50% of Sony’s active player base.
As we look ahead to 2025, the gaming community is brimming with excitement and anticipation. With the potential for groundbreaking releases and hardware advancements, this year promises to be a pivotal moment in the evolution of the gaming industry.
