Online gaming is constantly evolving, and with so much input from multiple different sectors of the industry, there are plenty of games to look forward to between now and the end of the year. Irrespective of whether you enjoy casino gaming or console gaming, or dabble across several genres, there will be a new release in 2025 that will catch your eye.
Today, we’re going to glide through some of the key games that those in the industry are most looking forward to over the next few months.
Landmark sports games
Some gaming stalwarts are like clockwork. We have Madden, FIFA (now known as FC), as well as other games like NBA 2K. These games typically come out in August and September, and although Madden has recently been released, and to mixed reviews, it’s a time of year that is the most exciting for sports game fans.
FC 26 will feature a range of changes, including new stadiums, players and gameplay for fans to explore. However, if FC 25 is anything to go by, I would suggest having some reservations. Although I play a lot of FIFA, particularly online, the quality of the game has suffered in recent years due to EA Sports’ enormous monopoly, as Pro Evolution no longer puts up a worthy battle.
There are ardent Pro Evolution fans who will argue until they are blue in the face that the game has a lot to offer. Still, with FC having the bank balance, copyright and development team that has far more at its disposal, some gamers fear they could end up in a spiral where they essentially release the same game every year with minimal tweaks.
The rise of esports has meant that these games have become more profitable for those who are in the higher bracket of skilled gamers.
MMOs
Massive and online multiplayer games have been the fuel that has helped online gaming become a true titan of global entertainment. So far in 2025, the success of Dune: Awakening on PC has helped garner the plaudits that should see it become a hit on PlayStation and Xbox at some point in 2026.
If you’re a fan of MMO games, then Aion 2 and Chrono Odyssey are two of the standout games to keep an eye on. Experts are divided on when these games will actually be available; some think it’ll be by the end of this year, and some are predicting at some point in early 2026.
Those who prefer high-octane games will be pleased to know that the standout release set for 2025 is Battlefield 6, one of the most highly anticipated FPS games in recent memory.
Although these games can often have marketing and expectations that exceed the final product, many gamers are optimistic that Battlefield 6 – especially the online version of the game – will be able to match the lofty expectations that millions of people have for this landmark release.
Innovations in casino gaming
Placing wagers online has been the catalyst for the gambling industry to propel itself into a titan of the broader gaming industry. In fact, you could argue that it has boasted the most impressive growth out of any gaming sector over the last decade. One of the many reasons for this rapid growth has been the emergence and acceptance of online casinos in numerous major global economies.
In countries such as Australia and New Zealand, online casinos have been regulated for several decades. While a number of brand new online casinos available in NZ are vying for attention in their own multimillion-dollar market, it’s the success of online casinos in overseas markets that has helped to bolster the industry on a global scale.
In New Zealand, brands like Christchurch Casino boast over 2,000 games, and RollXO is an innovative brand that channels the latest innovations in cryptocurrency and blockchain, allowing gamblers to play using their digital assets. Individual casino games set for release later this year include Tome of the Lost by Play’n GO, and Cash Strike Triple Fire, which is one of the latest Blueprint games to emerge.
Final thoughts
There’s so much scope in the world of gaming. With the DIY nature of gaming apps, the rise of AI development in video gaming and a proliferation in niche areas like casino gaming, the industry has undergone significant changes. The fact of the matter is that there are too many games to mention.
Due to the increased scope of gaming, you can find dozens of new titles tailored to your preferences. For instance, I’m a massive fan of football and boxing. There are console games like Undisputed and FC 25, but on a mobile, online level, there are dozens of free games that cater to both of these interests, too.
The rise of online gaming communities has meant that it is easier than ever to connect with people who share your interests, and the cost-effective, viral nature of social media also makes it easier to get millions of people to see your new product, without too much initial investment. As long as you know what you are looking for and follow the right news on social media, there are going to be plenty of online games for you to look forward to in 2025.
