PC and Xbox Series X/S owners are in for a treat in the coming year, with an impressive lineup of exclusive titles that PlayStation players will miss. From sprawling RPGs to innovative action games, developers are leveraging the power of the Xbox Series X/S and the versatility of PCs to bring ambitious visions to life.
This curated selection highlights the most anticipated games that won't be available on Sony consoles. Prepare for a gaming experience that might just justify a hardware upgrade or a reconsideration of your preferred platform.
Table of Contents
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
- Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
- Replaced
- Avowed
- Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- Ark II
- Everwild
- Ara: History Untold
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Image: stalker2.com
- Release Date: November 20, 2024
- Developer: GSC Game World
- Download: Steam
The highly anticipated sequel to the iconic series plunges players back into the perilous and enigmatic Exclusion Zone. GSC Game World has meticulously crafted an immersive atmosphere, featuring dynamic weather systems, richly detailed environments, and a significantly enhanced AI, creating a truly believable yet unforgiving world. Prepare for deadly anomalies, terrifying mutants, and fierce competition for resources with other stalkers.
This title seamlessly blends deep, non-linear storytelling with classic hardcore survival mechanics. Every decision shapes the narrative, while the stunning Unreal Engine 5 graphics transport you to a realistic and bleak post-apocalyptic setting. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is more than just a shooter; it's a survival experience where every step could be your last.
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
Image: senuassaga.com
- Release Date: May 21, 2024
- Developer: Ninja Theory
- Download: Steam
This psychological adventure sequel pushes the boundaries of video games as an art form. Ninja Theory delves even deeper into mythology and the protagonist's harrowing mental struggles. Senua, the Celtic warrior, once again confronts not only external enemies but also her inner demons.
Hellblade II sets a new standard for cinematic storytelling and emotional impact. Breathtaking graphics and cutting-edge motion capture technology render the heroine's every expression and movement with haunting realism. The dark, mystical landscapes and a chilling atmosphere create a unique experience where every encounter is a test of survival, and sound plays a crucial role in understanding the unfolding events.
Replaced
Image: store.epicgames.com
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Sad Cat Studios
- Download: Steam
Sad Cat Studios presents a 2D action-platformer set in a dystopian alternate 1980s. The narrative follows an AI trapped in a human body, fighting for survival and grappling with its identity in a harsh and unforgiving society. Phoenix City, a metropolis steeped in corruption and despair, becomes the backdrop for a struggle for freedom and self-discovery.
Replaced boasts a captivating visual style, blending pixel art with cinematic 3D effects. The gameplay features dynamic combat, acrobatic maneuvers, and exploration inspired by classic platformers. The synthwave soundtrack perfectly complements the dark, retro-futuristic setting.
Avowed
Image: global-view.com
- Release Date: February 13, 2025
- Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
- Download: Steam
Obsidian Entertainment's ambitious RPG transports players to the fantasy world of Eora, previously explored in the Pillars of Eternity series. This time, the experience is rendered in full 3D from a first-person perspective. Expect magic, epic battles, rich lore, and compelling characters to drive this exciting adventure.
Avowed combines dynamic combat with a deep role-playing system where player choices significantly impact the world and its inhabitants. Explore vast landscapes filled with secrets, ancient ruins, and formidable enemies. Obsidian promises massive battles, a compelling narrative, and a robust character progression system.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Image: wall.alphacoders.com
- Release Date: November 19, 2024
- Developer: Microsoft
- Download: Steam
The legendary flight simulation franchise returns, raising the bar for realism and technological innovation. The 2024 iteration promises a significant leap forward, introducing new activities, enhanced physics, and even more detailed landscapes. Players can enjoy free flight, or take on missions such as firefighting, rescue operations, and even aerial construction.
The updated engine delivers unparalleled realism in weather patterns, air currents, and aircraft handling, encompassing everything from small single-engine planes to massive cargo ships. Cloud technology integration enables highly accurate recreations of nearly every location on Earth.
Ark II
Image: maxi-geek.com
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Studio Wildcard, Grove Street Games
This sequel to the popular survival game expands the prehistoric world into an even larger and more dangerous setting. Studio Wildcard promises substantial improvements across the board, from enhanced visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5 to revamped survival mechanics, crafting systems, and dinosaur interactions. Vin Diesel's presence adds a layer of cinematic drama to the storyline.
Ark II features a vast open world teeming with threats and opportunities. Improved enemy AI, refined combat mechanics, and a deep progression system create a truly immersive experience.
Everwild
Image: insidexbox.de
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Rare
Rare's enigmatic title invites players to explore a magical world brimming with natural magic and fantastical creatures. The focus lies on exploration and interaction with a unique ecosystem where every element is interconnected. The core theme revolves around the relationship between humanity and the natural world, uncovering its secrets and fostering harmonious coexistence.
Rare promises a unique gaming experience where building connections with the environment and its inhabitants takes precedence over combat. The game's artistic visual style, featuring watercolor landscapes, captivating creatures, and a serene atmosphere, evokes a sense of wonder.
Ara: History Untold
Image: tecnoguia.istocks.club
- Release Date: September 24, 2024
- Developer: Oxide Games
- Download: Steam
Oxide Games' ambitious historical strategy game reimagines the 4X genre. Players lead civilizations, shaping the course of world history. Ara emphasizes non-linear strategies and diverse gameplay options, allowing for the free combination of cultural, technological, and political elements to create unique societies.
Innovative AI and deep simulation ensure that every decision, from diplomacy to economics, has tangible consequences. Beautiful maps, diverse historical eras, and a focus on customization make Ara: History Untold a refreshing take on the strategy genre.
2024 promises a remarkable year for PC and Xbox Series X/S gamers, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore worlds previously unimaginable. These exclusive titles not only revitalize beloved franchises but also introduce exciting new universes. Whether you prefer the survival challenges of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, the epic adventure of Avowed, or the magical allure of Everwild, there's something for every gamer.