Forecasting the Winner of the Most Anticipated Game Award

While 2024 might not have delivered the same overwhelming batch of top-notch games as the previous year, it has still turned out to be pretty stellar in terms of video game releases. Big names like Astro Bot, Helldivers 2, STALKER 2, Metaphor: ReFantazio, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, and Balatro have already dropped, and that’s just scratching the surface. Looking ahead, 2025 has all the makings of being a standout year, and that sense of anticipation is reflected in the lineup for The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game nominations.

Should all the games slated for release next year actually make it to us, 2025 could shape up to be an extraordinary period for gaming. Even if some get delayed, there’s still a treasure trove of titles that can keep us thoroughly entertained. Just take a look at the five games that have secured a spot in The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game category; these alone could easily satisfy gamers for the entire year. However, as with all coveted awards, only one can emerge victorious.

The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game Nominees

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
From the creative mind of Hideo Kojima, renowned for crafting unforgettable experiences through his blend of gaming and cinematic storytelling, comes the sequel to 2019’s Death Stranding. The original game captivated players and critics alike with its thematic depth and unique direction. Now with Death Stranding 2: On the Beach slated for a 2025 release, fans are eagerly awaiting a journey even more peculiar and fascinating than the first.

Ghost of Yotei
Although initially somewhat overshadowed by the release of The Last of Us Part 2, Ghost of Tsushima proved its mettle as an exceptional action-adventure game, drawing acclaim for its gripping combat, heartfelt story, and stunning art design. Now, following much speculation, the sequel Ghost of Yotei is set to arrive in 2025. This time, players will step into the shoes of Atsu, a new protagonist during the dawn of the Edo period on the island of Hokkaido.

Grand Theft Auto 6
A game over a decade in the making since Grand Theft Auto 5 left its mark, GTA 6 has fueled countless theories and speculations. The anticipation for any snippet of information has reached near-comical levels, and in 2025, after a trailer that’s only amplified fan excitement, it’s safe to say this game will be a monumental release.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of whispers and hype, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is nearing its anticipated launch window in 2025. While new hardware from Nintendo is also rumored, this next chapter for fans of the franchise offers some solace with it potentially landing on existing Switch consoles.

Monster Hunter Wilds
As a direct follow-up to Monster Hunter: World, Monster Hunter Wilds is marked for a late February 2025 release. Since Capcom has teased fans with trailers spotlighting its expansive world and gameplay, there’s much known about the game. While it might lack some of the suspense surrounding other contenders, the hype is palpable as players gear up for epic hunts.

Final Prediction

While each of the nominees like Death Stranding 2, Ghost of Yotei, and Metroid Prime 4 carry a lot of excitement, the spotlight undeniably shines brightest on Grand Theft Auto 6 for The Game Awards 2024’s Most Anticipated Game accolade. No title in video game history seems to wield as much interest and global enthusiasm as GTA 6, positioning it as the most eagerly awaited game of 2025.

MORE: Check out 8 Notable Games from 2024 that Weren’t Nominated for The Game Awards, Ranked.