During the Xbox Developer Direct on January 23, 2025, Microsoft unveiled a series of major titles slated for release this year. Here’s a summary of the main announcements:
The announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4 and the return of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black for PC and next-gen consoles.
Team Ninja and PlatinumGames announced Ninja Gaiden 4, set to launch in fall 2025 on PlayStation 5, PC Windows, and Xbox Series X|S, and available on Game Pass. The game introduces a new protagonist, Yakumo, while retaining Ryu Hayabusa as a key character. Set in a demon-infested Tokyo, the gameplay features two new combat styles, “Raven” and “Nué,” offering fresh dynamics and spectacular action. Alongside this, an updated version of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black has been released for modern platforms.
For more information on Ninja Gaiden 4, be sure to check out our dedicated article here!
South of Midnight
Compulsion Games presented an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at South of Midnight, an adventure inspired by the gothic folklore of the American South. The game follows the protagonist Hazel, who possesses powers called “Weaver,” on her mission to save her mother. The game stands out for its unique artistic style, which combines stop-motion animation techniques with a visual palette that captures the melancholic and captivating atmosphere of southern gothic. The soundtrack, inspired by traditional blues and soul music, further immerses players in this evocative world. South of Midnight promises to deliver a deep narrative, meaningful choices, and gameplay focused on exploration and interaction with characters. It will be available at launch on Xbox Game Pass and is one of the most anticipated titles of 2025 on April 8.
Clair Obscur – Expedition 33
Developed by Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a captivating turn-based RPG. Releasing on April 24 for Xbox and PC, the game takes players on a mysterious space adventure set in a retro-futuristic sci-fi world. With a deep storyline and a cast of charismatic characters voiced by renowned actors, the title promises a combination of strategic battles and meaningful narrative choices. The game blends a profound and mystery-laden narrative with an aesthetic that evokes noir atmospheres and vintage visions of space. Players will be immersed in a complex universe where every decision has significant consequences for the fate of their expedition and the world around them.
The story follows a team of space explorers venturing into an unknown galaxy, facing puzzles, political conflicts, and ancient mysteries. The gameplay offers a dynamic and strategic turn-based combat system that rewards cunning and planning, while interactions with team members reveal personal stories and interwoven relationships. Among the game’s highlights is a voice cast of great renown, bringing to life unique and well-developed characters.
Visually, the title stands out for its refined artistic direction, combining retro influences with futuristic design, and for an evocative soundtrack that enhances the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the adventure. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 promises to deliver a unique experience, capturing the imagination of fans of strategic RPGs and compelling stories.
With its polished artistic direction and immersive gameplay, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing surprises of 2025. It will be available at launch on Xbox Game Pass.
Doom: The Dark Ages
During the Xbox Developer Direct 2025, id Software unveiled a new trailer for Doom: The Dark Ages, focusing on both its narrative and gameplay. You can find our analysis of the previous trailer here, along with our reviews of DOOM and DOOM ETERNAL.
Doom: The Dark Ages will be available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass at launch, which is finally set for May 15!
Official infos have been released on the official Xbox site! Check them out 🙂
