Discover everything announced at the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, including major first-party reveals, surprise third-party titles, hardware debuts, and exciting plans for Xbox’s future.
The Xbox Games Showcase 2025 has wrapped, delivering one of the most jam-packed and exciting presentations in recent Xbox history. This year’s showcase was laser-focused on putting players at the center of the Xbox experience, spotlighting a wide array of first-party exclusives, thrilling third-party debuts, hardware innovations, and a clear vision for the future of gaming across console, PC, and handheld.
In an event marked by world premieres and surprise reveals, Microsoft pulled back the curtain on the next evolution of its gaming ecosystem. Headlining the show were massive announcements from Xbox Game Studios, including the world premiere of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, the long-anticipated The Outer Worlds 2, and a surprise sequel in Grounded 2. Other notable showings included Gears of War: Reloaded, Clockwork Revolution, and a haunting new title from Double Fine, Keeper. Plus, we got a closer look at Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’s upcoming DLC, Order of the Giants.
Third-party partners brought even more to the table. Square Enix stunned fans by dropping Final Fantasy XVI for Xbox on the same day, while Persona 4 Revival, Invincible VS, Super Meat Boy 3D, and High on Life 2 rounded out the lineup with style. The indie scene also came out swinging with standout reveals like The Blood of Dawnwalker and At Fate’s End.
Hardware also took the spotlight with the reveal of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handhelds, powerful new devices that promise seamless cross-platform play across Xbox consoles, PC, and major storefronts. Phil Spencer closed the event with a tease of Xbox’s 25th anniversary plans for 2026, which include a new Fable, Forza, Gears of War: E-Day, and the return of a beloved classic.
The Outer Worlds 2
Obsidian’s The Outer Worlds 2 opens the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 with a rich gameplay trailer, spotlighting a fresh planetary frontier besieged by chaotic rifts. The sequel preserves its anti-capitalist roots and sharp satirical tone while ramping up first-person shooter action. Players will wield new weaponry and face off against inventive enemies plucked straight from the corporate dystopia that defines this universe. From expanded settlement hubs to off-world exploration, the game promises engaging narrative depth intertwined with action-driven missions. With enhanced graphics and more dynamic combat mechanics, The Outer Worlds 2 feels both familiar and ambitious. Launching October 29, 2025, on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5, it’s making its cross-platform debut, pushing Obsidian’s vision to a broader audience.
High on Life 2
A fresh world premiere introduced High on Life 2, picking up the irreverent, comedic sci-fi chaos of the original. The reveal trailer teases the same fast-paced, weapon-wielding humor, giving fans the trademark “gun with attitude” experience but without actual gameplay footage. The sequel seems poised to double down on its distinctive blend of comedy, bizarre alien encounters, and puppet-powered arms. Arriving this winter on Xbox, PC, and PS5, High on Life 2 doesn’t show much yet—but its charm is unmistakable, and fans can’t wait to see its quirky universe in action.
Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy
Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy appeared with a haunting cinematic trailer, set in a time of darkness and despair. While details remain scarcer, the evocative visuals and emotional score suggest a sweeping narrative of resilience, survival, and the human spirit amid plague-ravaged lands. It revisits the franchise’s distinctive blend of stealth, emotional storytelling, and atmospheric design. Targeted for release in 2026 on Xbox, PS5, and PC, it promises a cinematic journey later this decade that echoes its predecessors in tone and ambition.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
During the showcase, it was confirmed live that Hollow Knight: Silksong will finally launch in 2025. After years of anticipation, the sequel to the beloved indie hit is now arriving this year—no more waiting. While details were limited, the news excited fans awaiting Hornet’s return in a sprawling, beautifully hand-drawn platformer. The confirmation cements 2025 as a standout year for Nintendo-style indies on Xbox and handheld alike.
The Blood of Dawnwalker
The Blood of Dawnwalker brought a visceral gameplay trailer brimming with vampiric combat and dark fantasy flair. Players dive into fluid melee action, draining enemies and gorging on supernatural power. The visual palette swells with gothic architecture and crimson-soaked battlegrounds, offering a visceral feast for action fans. Slated for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5, it promises thrills, strategic violence, and a darker turn on the fantasy genre.
Super Meat Boy 3D
The long-awaited Super Meat Boy 3D was announced, projecting its trademark difficulty and charm into a full 3D environment. Retaining the punishing platforming and tight precision of the original, this sequel transports players through chaotic, fleshy landscapes and grinning hazards. With crisp visuals and a promise of retro-infused charm, it’s shaping up to be a love letter to platforming fans. Targeted for early 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, it aims to expand the Meat Boy legend into 3D with style.
Ninja Gaiden 4
In the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, Platinum Games delivers a visceral return to form with Ninja Gaiden 4, showcasing high-octane combat that fans demand. Ryu Hayabusa’s signature blade work was on full display in the fiery gameplay preview, featuring lightning-fast aerial combos, precision parries, and blood-soaked finishers that hark back to the series’ brutal legacy. The trailer highlighted sleek animations and frenetic enemy encounters, promising a challenging experience that rewards mastery and daring. The combo-driven mechanics remain core, while new systems appear to enhance depth and variety in combat. With its signature fast-tempo flow and modern polish, Ninja Gaiden 4 strikes a bold balance between nostalgia and evolution. Set to launch on October 21, 2025, across Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, this installment looks set to reinvigorate the franchise for long-time fans and action newcomers alike. Break out your blades; Ryu’s back.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle: The Order of Giants
Adventure-seekers rejoice, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle returns with its first story DLC in the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, The Order of Giants. Set to release on September 4, 2025, this expansion adds new tomb-raiding escapades, historical mysteries, and clever puzzles to the globe-trotter’s journey. Players will uncover relics tied to legendary giants, exploring fresh locales and confronting puzzles that blend archaeology with Indiana Jones’ classic wit and charm. Early glimpses promise immersive new environments, expanded character interactions, and narrative extensions that build on the base game’s tone. Whether you’re deciphering hieroglyphs, navigating hidden traps, or piecing together ancient lore, this DLC aims to deepen the adventure and deliver fresh narrative threads. Available on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, The Order of Giants continues Indy’s quest for discovery and souvenir-worthy treasures.
Beast of Reincarnation
Game Freak surprises with Beast of Reincarnation, a third-person action epic that teams players with a loyal canine companion against towering monsters. The trailer unveiled sweeping, open landscapes and cinematic set-pieces, spotlighting giant adversaries and dramatic combat mechanics. Players will explore mythical realms alongside their faithful dog, forging a bond as they face colossal threats. Early footage suggests epic boss fights that rely on strategic duo dynamics—where human agility and puppy instincts combine. Set for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, this title marks a refreshing shift for Game Freak, famed for Pokémon, toward mature storytelling and visceral combat. With its majestic scale, emotional partnership, and monster-slaying spectacle, Beast of Reincarnation promises to be a highlight of the next-gen gaming line-up.
Clockwork Revolution
Clockwork Revolution from inXile Studios emerges as the developer’s most ambitious offering yet a steampunk-infused shooter with emergent storytelling and character customization. The preview trailer offers glimpses into mechanically driven cities crisscrossed with gears, pipes, and industrial grit. Players will navigate politically charged factions, engage in dynamic dialogue, and tackle missions infused with choice-driven consequences. The gameplay mixes shooter mechanics with RPG elements: weapons, upgrades, and visual customization offer a personal experience. With vibrant industrial aesthetics and branching narrative threads, the title hints at meaningful player agency within its world. Though no release window was specified, Clockwork Revolution is poised as a next-level narrative adventure that merges steampunk flair with modern gameplay; one to track through early access later this generation.
Grounded 2
Obsidian Entertainment returns to pint-sized peril with Grounded 2, expanding the backyard survival adventure with enormous ambition. The gameplay trailer shows off sprawling new biomes, towering insects, and refined survival mechanics. Players still operate at insect scale, scavenging resources, building forts, and crafting advanced gear but this time, with even greater scope and challenge. New story threads add narrative hooks to the sandbox, while multiplayer teamwork retains core importance, whether battling fire ants or exploring glowing mushrooms. Arriving on July 29, 2025 via Xbox Game Preview on Xbox Series X|S and PC, Grounded 2 promises an enriched microscopic journey. Expect sharper visuals, deeper crafting systems, and fresher threats. It’s a bigger, bolder jump into survival at the human-sized world’s edge Obsidian style.
Cronos: The New Dawn
Darkness descends in Cronos: The New Dawn, a sci-fi survival horror title that plunges players into claustrophobic corridors, tense third-person encounters, and cosmic terror. The gameplay trailer delivered palpable dread through flickering lights and sudden alien shadows, hinting at stealth as the primary survival tool. Deeply atmospheric and focused on evasion over combat, the game will force players to rely on wits, resources, and awareness. Set for Fall 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, Cronos seems to channel isolation-driven unease akin to Dead Space or Alien: Isolation. Expect layered world-building, haunting interplay, and high-stakes survival when that first alien silhouette darts across the dimly lit hallways.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Seasons of the Worm Cult
The Elder Scrolls Online evolves again with its Seasons of the Worm Cult update launching June 18, 2025. Players can expect new storylines, items, and quests tied to the cult’s machinations. As a first-ever server-wide event arrives in October, the world itself may shift—opening factional conflicts and communal challenges across all platforms. Expanding its living world ethos, ESO continues offering fresh content for veterans and newcomers. Xbox, PS5, and PC adventurers can look forward to deeper narratives and global gameplay shifts that shape Tamriel with collective actions. Grab your sword and join the fight to unravel the Worm Cult’s sinister influence.
Aphelion
From acclaimed developers Don’t Nod emerges Aphelion, a sci-fi survival thriller set on a hostile alien planet. Players must navigate dangerous terrain, uncover extraterrestrial secrets, and survive in a tightly coiled narrative. Tension-driven gameplay and atmospheric visuals underline a tale of isolation and resourcefulness, cementing Don’t Nod’s reputation for emotionally engaging settings. Scheduled for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, Aphelion promises a blend of suspense, storytelling flair, and survival strategy, ideal for fans of narrative-driven sci-fi.
No Ghosts at the Grand
No Ghosts at the Grand offers a refreshingly quirky blend of paranormal-themed house renovation and cozy mystery. The world premiere trailer introduces charming cleaning gameplay mixed with supernatural character interactions and a witty, talking cat sidekick. Set in a stylized aesthetic that balances warm visuals with gentle spookiness, the game centers on fixing up haunted spaces and uncovering underlying secrets. Due in 2026 for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, this title brings a unique spin to narrative and décor-focused games—expect lighthearted ghost-hunting with heart and humor.
Age of Mythology: Retold – Heavenly Spear
Fans of classic RTS should take note: Age of Mythology: Retold adds the Heavenly Spear update this fall, introducing a Japanese pantheon with new gods, units, and civilizations. The gameplay trailer underscores strategic lineage and mythic expansions centered around gods like Susanoo and Amaterasu. With fresh tech trees, deity powers, and troop types, this update enriches the base game’s replayability and tactical depth. Available on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, Heavenly Spear revitalizes Age of Mythology for fans old and new seeking divine conquest on a grand scale.
Mudang: Two Hearts
Drawing on Korean myth and emotional storytelling, Mudang: Two Hearts offers a narrative-driven supernatural adventure. The intensity-filled trailer hints at a layered tale about personal grief, spiritual power, and traditional magic. Players may step into the shoes of a dual protagonist system, balancing human relationships and mystical encounters. Scheduled for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, the game embraces folklore, supernatural depth, and heart-rending narrative arcs rich with cultural resonance. Expect ritualistic combat, moral decisions, and emotional resonance.
Planet of Lana 2: Children of the Leaf
Visually breathtaking, Planet of Lana 2: Children of the Leaf emerges as a lush platforming masterpiece with puzzle-rich exploration and compelling emotional undertones. The premiere trailer demonstrates painterly beauty, atmospheric settings, and deep companionship hallmarks of the original. The story promises to continue Lana’s journey in new environments fraught with timeless themes of hope, friendship, and sacrifice. Due in 2026 on Xbox, PS5, and PC, this sequel seems destined to be a tender, immersive narrative journey with visual elegance and powerful storytelling.
Fallout 76: Gone Fission
Fallout survival gets a serene twist with Gone Fission, cutting loose in river-based fishing and water-themed activities. Now available on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, this minigame update introduces tranquil relaxation amidst post-apocalyptic chaos perfect for nostalgic paddling and survival reflection. With new fishing gear, aquatic loot, and scenic zones, players can unwind in Vault 76’s radioactive countryside. The patch adds charm without distraction, offering a new layer of leisurely gameplay within the Wasteland’s gritty universe.
Solo Leveling Arise: Overdrive
Inspired by the hit anime and web novel, Solo Leveling Arise: Overdrive brings dynamic boss battles and flashy combat techniques to life. The reveal trailer highlighted epic moments, flashy visuals, and intense skill use reminiscent of Sung Jin-Woo’s signature power-ups. Slated for 2026 on PC, players will scale through dungeons, level up rapidly, and face down colossal enemies. With its anime-style polish and action-packed promise, Overdrive aims to capture the heart-thumping spectacle of the original IP in true interactive form.
Animo
Animo teases a charming creature-collecting adventure filled with lighthearted combat and colorful creature designs. The reveal emphasized cute, stylized aesthetics and playful world traversal. Players can expect gentle battles, exploration, and creature-bonding, making it an ideal pick for fans of relaxed RPG experiences. Coming in 2026 to Xbox Series X|S and PC, Animo brings whimsical joy wrapped in adorable creature companionship.
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3+4
Tony Hawk’s classic skateboarding legacy returns with Pro Skater 3+4, featuring iconic maps like NYC and Venice Beach, celebrity cameos (including Doom Guy), and fully remastered soundtracks. Demo’s live today; full release on July 11, 2025, for Xbox, PS5, and PC. Featuring modern enhancements alongside original gameplay authenticity, this release caters to fans desiring nostalgia and next-gen polish. Skate the dream with brutal tricks, old-school flow, and a fresh coat of high-res visuals.
At Fate’s End
Continuing the emotional legacy of Spiritfarer, At Fate’s End presents a lush 2D narrative adventure—a heart-warming journey of final connections. The world premiere offered glimpses of enchanting art and reflective storytelling, suggesting a focus on emotional closure, relationships, and new journey’s end. Slated for 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, this game looks set to tug heartstrings once more with beautiful design and poignant narrative weight.
Gears of War: Reloaded
The original Gears of War re-enters the fray in Reloaded, a full remake with updated visuals, lighting, and refined gameplay. Set for August 26, 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, Reloaded aims to modernize the cover-shooter classic while staying true to Marcus and Dom’s gritty, booming narrative. With polished AI, enhanced cinematics, and smoother mechanics, Reloaded delivers nostalgia with next-gen sheen—reopened to both old strategists and rookie grunts.
Persona 4 Revival
JRPG fans rejoiced at Persona 4 Revival; a surprise mini-reveal bursting with stylish gameplay. This updated version brings Persona’s beloved cast, turn-based battles, and social simulation to Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC. Though brief, the glimpse promised signature story-driven depth, charming personalities, and dungeon-crawling fun. No release date yet, but the announcement suggests an upcoming revival centered on fresh polish and platform inclusivity.
Sea of Thieves: Smugglers’ Tide
Rogue sales rise in Sea of Thieves Season 17: Smugglers’ Tide. Launching in August 2025 across all platforms, this update invites players into underwater smuggling, treasure hunts, and pirate betrayal. Expect new cargo systems, pirate-themed events, and opportunities for underhanded gains. With emerging economies, dynamic cargo runs, and seafaring intrigue, this season promises more capers on the open seas and more reasons to betray your crew (for treasure, of course).
Invincible Vs
Invincible Vs brings hero showdown action to life, pitting characters from Invincible in intense brawls with blood, powers, and strategic combat. The fighting reveal captured bone-crunching special moves. Coming in 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, it blends superhero flair, visceral visuals, and arena-style fight mechanics. Expect dynamic combos, character-driven move-sets, and violent clashes true to the comic’s tone powered by super-strength carnage.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade & Final Fantasy XVI
FFVII Remake Intergrade arrives on Xbox this winter, delivering enhanced visuals and DLC content for the Cloud-centric saga. Meanwhile, Final Fantasy XVI is available today, marking its debut on Xbox with story-rich action and high-fantasy lore. These titles signify Square Enix’s renewed investment in Xbox platforms and bring crossover appeal through premiere storytelling, visually rich worlds, and action-packed RPG gameplay.
Keeper
Double Fine’s quirky new IP Keeper stars a living lighthouse, complete with legs, on a journey through surreal open worlds. The trailer reveals whimsical environments, comedic movement, and curiosity-driven exploration. Launching October 17, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S and PC, its oddball charm and introspective tone suggest a compelling experiment in creativity; exactly the kind of bold deviation Double Fine is known for.
Xbox Celebrates 25 Years with Fable, Forza, Gears: E-Day, and a Halo Tease for 2026
Phil Spencer closed the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 with a bang, teasing a massive lineup for 2026. Celebrating 25 years of Xbox, Spencer confirmed that fans can expect major releases next year, including the long-awaited new Fable, a fresh installment in the Forza racing series, and Gears of War: E-Day, a prequel diving deep into the origins of the iconic franchise. Perhaps most intriguing was his tease of “the return of a classic that has been with us since the beginning,” strongly hinting at something big for Halo. While no trailer accompanied the tease, the mention alone was enough to ignite speculation and hype across the Xbox community. Spencer’s brief but impactful announcement shows that Xbox is far from slowing down and has a powerful slate planned to mark its milestone anniversary. Fans of classic franchises have a lot to look forward to in 2026.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Black Ops 7 closes the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 with a haunting trailer drenched in static and psychological dread. Mason’s return signals mind-bending twists and narrative intrigue. While details remain scarce, the tone sets expectations for reality-bending warfare, classic Black Ops espionage, and unnerving storytelling. No release date yet, but anticipation for this franchise staple is already building toward its next reality-altering chapter on Xbox and beyond.
ROG Xbox Ally & Ally X
Xbox unveiled two new handhelds: ROG Xbox Ally and the premium Ally X blurring boundaries between console, PC, and cloud gaming. The Ally X boasts a Ryzen 7 Extreme CPU, 24 GB RAM, and 1 TB storage, while the Ally features Ryzen Z2A, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB. Both run Xbox Play Anywhere titles and PC storefronts like Battle.net. With full compatibility across Xbox, PC, and handheld play, Microsoft promises console-level performance in your hands. Coming later this year, these devices mark a major stride in on-the-go gaming versatility.
Final Thoughts
The Xbox Games Showcase 2025 delivered a bold and diverse vision of gaming’s future, blending blockbuster franchises with imaginative new IPs. From the brutal elegance of Ninja Gaiden 4 to the charming supernatural mystery of No Ghosts at the Grand, Xbox highlighted its commitment to both core gamers and creative storytelling. The return of legendary titles like Gears of War: Reloaded and Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3+4 balanced nostalgia with modern polish, while surprises like Beast of Reincarnation and Aphelion hinted at bold genre evolutions. Crucially, the showcase reinforced Xbox’s strength in variety, spanning survival horror, cozy adventure, RTS, and emotional indie narratives. With many of these titles heading to Game Pass on day one, Xbox continues to push accessibility and value alongside innovation. Whether you’re in it for epic battles, heartfelt stories, or offbeat creativity, this year’s event made one thing clear: the next era of Xbox gaming is expansive, exciting, and just getting started.
Read the news recap of the latest trends in video game industry via Gamerative.
FAQs
Will there be another Xbox Games Showcase later in 2025?
While Microsoft hasn’t confirmed a second showcase for late 2025, they often host additional digital events during the holiday season or around The Game Awards in December. These smaller spotlights may include updates, surprise reveals, or launch trailers for titles arriving in Q4. Keep an eye on Xbox’s official blog or social channels for future announcements.
How can I watch Xbox Games Showcase events live in the future?
Xbox typically streams their showcases live on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and the official Xbox website. To get reminders and avoid missing the next event, consider subscribing to the official Xbox YouTube channel and enabling notifications. You can also follow @Xbox on X (formerly Twitter) for updates.
Do Xbox Games Showcase trailers reflect final gameplay quality?
Not always. Many showcase trailers—especially for early-development titles—use pre-rendered cinematics or “in-engine” footage that may not fully reflect final gameplay. While Microsoft has improved transparency in recent years by labeling footage clearly, it’s always wise to wait for gameplay demos or developer breakdowns before setting expectations.