The coming year looks set to be a golden era for PC and Xbox Series X|S owners, boasting an array of exclusive titles that are poised to leave PlayStation fans green with envy. From groundbreaking RPGs to innovative action games, developers are set to unleash their most ambitious projects yet, leveraging the potent hardware of the Xbox Series and the versatile capabilities of PCs.
In this curated selection, we'll delve into the most eagerly awaited games that won't grace Sony's consoles. Prepare to be amazed, as this lineup is compelling enough to prompt a hardware upgrade or even a shift in gaming platform loyalty.
Release Date: November 20, 2024
Developer: GSC Game World
Download: Steam
The eagerly anticipated sequel to the iconic series, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, promises to plunge players back into the perilous and enigmatic Exclusion Zone. GSC Game World has meticulously crafted an atmosphere where dynamic weather shifts, intricately detailed locales, and an advanced AI system create a living, yet unforgiving, ecosystem. Encounter deadly anomalies, terrifying mutants, and vie with other stalkers for resources and survival. This title marries deep nonlinear storytelling with classic hardcore survival mechanics, where every choice impacts the unfolding narrative. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game delivers a visually stunning and immersive post-apocalyptic experience. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 isn't merely a shooter—it's an invitation to a world where each step could be your last, and only the most resilient will thrive.
Also read: Ultimate weapon overview for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Developer: Ninja Theory
Download: Steam
Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 continues the psychological journey that redefined video games as art. Ninja Theory amplifies the exploration of mythology and the protagonist's mental struggles, centering once more on Senua, a Celtic warrior fighting both external foes and her internal demons. This sequel aims to elevate cinematic and emotional storytelling, leveraging cutting-edge graphics and motion capture to deliver hauntingly realistic expressions and movements. Immersed in mystical, fear-laden landscapes, players will navigate battles that test not only their skills but also their senses, as sound plays a pivotal role in unraveling the narrative. Hellblade 2 transcends mere action; it's a profound journey into the psyche and soul that promises to resonate deeply.
Release Date: 2025
Developer: Sad Cat Studios
Download: Steam
Replaced is a 2D action-platformer from Sad Cat Studios that transports players to a dystopian alternate 1980s. The narrative focuses on an AI trapped in a human body, navigating survival and existential questions amidst a backdrop of corruption, crime, and despair in Phoenix City. This title distinguishes itself with a striking visual fusion of pixel art and cinematic 3D effects, offering dynamic combat, agile movement, and exploration reminiscent of classic platformers. The game's synthesizer-driven soundtrack amplifies the ambiance of a bleak retro-futuristic world. More than just a game, Replaced is an aesthetic adventure that plunges players into a world that's both nostalgic and unsettling.
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Download: Steam
Avowed, the ambitious RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, invites players into the enchanting world of Eora, familiar from the Pillars of Eternity series. This time, the adventure shifts to a full 3D, first-person perspective, blending dynamic combat with a rich role-playing system. Your choices will shape the world and its inhabitants, as you explore vast landscapes brimming with secrets, ancient ruins, and formidable foes. Obsidian promises epic battles powered by spells and weapons, alongside a compelling narrative that has long endeared the studio to RPG enthusiasts. Avowed is set to be a compelling choice for those yearning for a grand fantasy escapade.
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Developer: Microsoft
Download: Steam
The iconic Microsoft Flight Simulator series continues to push the boundaries of realism and technological innovation with its 2024 edition. This release promises to be a landmark with new activities, enhanced physics, and even more detailed landscapes. Players can look forward to not just leisurely flights but also engaging in tasks such as firefighting, rescue missions, and aerial infrastructure development. The updated engine offers unprecedented realism in weather patterns, air currents, and the handling of a diverse range of aircraft, from lightweight single-engine planes to colossal cargo jets. Integrated cloud technology enables highly accurate depictions of nearly every corner of the globe. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is more than a game—it's the ultimate dream for aviation aficionados, offering unparalleled aerial adventures.
Release Date: 2025
Developer: Studio Wildcard, Grove Street Games
Ark 2 expands on the beloved survival game, introducing players to an even vaster and more perilous prehistoric world. Studio Wildcard pledges significant enhancements across the board, utilizing Unreal Engine 5 to boost visuals, refine survival mechanics, and enrich crafting and dinosaur interactions. With Vin Diesel lending his star power to the protagonist role, the game adds a layer of cinematic drama to its narrative. Explore a sprawling open world teeming with threats and opportunities, where improved enemy AI, enhanced combat systems, and a deep progression framework immerse you in a dynamic, living environment. Central to the experience is the interaction with dinosaurs, now smarter and more lifelike than ever.
Release Date: 2025
Developer: Rare
Everwild from Rare offers a journey into a magical realm brimming with natural magic and fantastical beings. The game emphasizes exploration and interaction with a vibrant ecosystem, where every element is alive and intricately connected to nature's balance. The narrative revolves around the symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment, uncovering its mysteries and coexisting harmoniously. Rare aims to deliver a unique experience where forging connections with the world and its creatures trumps combat. The visual style, reminiscent of watercolor art, enchants with its beauty: mesmerizing landscapes, wondrous creatures, and a serene, meditative ambiance create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Everwild is a celebration of nature's beauty and mysteries, poised to inspire and leave a lasting impression.
Release Date: September 24, 2024
Developer: Oxide Games
Download: Steam
Ara: History Untold is an ambitious historical strategy game from Oxide Games that reimagines the 4X genre. Players assume the role of a leader tasked with reshaping world history by crafting a unique civilization. The game's hallmark is its focus on nonlinear strategies and diversity, allowing players to blend cultural, technological, and political elements to forge their society. With innovative AI and deep simulation, every decision, from diplomacy to economics, carries significant consequences for your nation and its global interactions. Featuring beautifully detailed maps, diverse historical periods, and a strong emphasis on personalization, Ara: History Untold offers a fresh take on strategy gaming. It's the perfect choice for those who aspire not just to govern but to sculpt history on their terms.
Also read: Ara: History Untold — an honest rage review
2024 promises to be a veritable gaming utopia, presenting unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in worlds that once seemed unattainable. Exclusives for PC and Xbox Series X|S not only reignite passion for cherished franchises but also unlock the gates to new, thrilling universes. Whether you're braving the dangers of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, embarking on a grand adventure in Avowed, or reveling in the magical ambiance of Everwild, there's a game tailored for every type of gamer.