Get ready for a stellar year of gaming on PC and Xbox Series X|S! This year boasts an impressive lineup of exclusive titles that PlayStation players will miss out on. From sprawling RPGs to innovative action games, developers are pushing boundaries, leveraging the power of the Xbox Series X|S and the versatility of PC gaming.
This curated selection showcases the most anticipated games skipping Sony consoles. Prepare to upgrade your hardware or rethink your platform loyalty—these games are worth it.
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
- Release Date: November 20, 2024
- Developer: GSC Game World
- Platform: 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 refined AI, creating a truly reactive and unforgiving world. Deadly anomalies, terrifying mutants, and ruthless competition for resources await.
This title blends deep, non-linear storytelling with classic hardcore survival mechanics. Every decision shapes the narrative, while stunning Unreal Engine 5 visuals immerse you in a realistic and bleak post-apocalyptic setting. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 isn't just a shooter; it's a survival experience where every step could be your last.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
- Release Date: May 21, 2024
- Developer: Ninja Theory
- Platform: Steam
This psychological adventure sequel pushes the boundaries of video games as art. Ninja Theory delivers an even more profound and unsettling exploration of mythology and the protagonist's mental struggles. Senua, the Celtic warrior, confronts not only external enemies but also her inner demons.
Hellblade II sets a new standard for cinematic storytelling and emotional impact. Exceptional graphics and motion capture technology bring Senua's every expression and movement to life with haunting realism. The dark, mystical landscapes and chilling soundscape create a unique atmosphere where every encounter is a test of survival. This is more than action; it's a journey into the depths of the human psyche.
Replaced
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Sad Cat Studios
- Platform: Steam
Sad Cat Studios presents a 2D action-platformer set in a dystopian, alternate 1980s. The story follows an AI trapped in a human body, fighting for survival and self-discovery in a harsh and unforgiving society. Phoenix City, a metropolis consumed by corruption and despair, becomes the backdrop for a struggle for freedom and meaning.
Replaced boasts a striking visual style, blending pixel art with cinematic 3D effects. The gameplay offers dynamic combat, acrobatic movement, and exploration inspired by classic platformers. The synthwave soundtrack perfectly complements the dark, retro-futuristic setting.
Avowed
- Release Date: February 13, 2025
- Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
- Platform: Steam
Obsidian Entertainment's ambitious RPG transports players to the fantasy world of Eora, previously seen in the Pillars of Eternity series. This time, the experience is presented in a fully realized 3D first-person perspective. Magic, epic battles, rich lore, and compelling characters form the foundation of 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 lands filled with secrets, ancient ruins, and formidable enemies. Prepare for massive battles, spellcasting, weapon mastery, and a richly detailed narrative that Obsidian is renowned for.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- Release Date: November 19, 2024
- Developer: Microsoft
- Platform: Steam
The legendary flight simulation series returns, pushing the boundaries of realism and technological innovation. The 2024 iteration promises a significant leap forward, with new activities, enhanced physics, and even more detailed landscapes. Beyond free flight, players will tackle missions like firefighting, rescue operations, and even aerial construction.
The updated engine delivers unprecedented realism in weather, air currents, and aircraft control, from small single-engine planes to massive cargo ships. Cloud technology integration ensures highly accurate representations of almost every location on Earth.
Ark II
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Studio Wildcard, Grove Street Games
The sequel to the popular survival game expands into an even larger and more dangerous prehistoric world. Studio Wildcard promises substantial improvements across the board, from Unreal Engine 5 enhanced visuals to revamped survival mechanics, crafting, and dinosaur interactions. Vin Diesel's presence adds a cinematic dimension to the narrative.
Ark II features a vast open world brimming with threats and opportunities. Expect improved enemy AI, refined combat, and a deep progression system that seamlessly integrates you into the world.
Everwild
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Rare
Rare's enigmatic title invites players into a magical world teeming with natural magic and fantastical creatures. The emphasis is on exploration and interaction with a vibrant ecosystem where every detail is interconnected. The core theme revolves around the relationship between humanity and the natural world, uncovering its secrets and living in harmony.
Rare promises a unique gaming experience where fostering connections with the environment and its inhabitants takes precedence over combat. The artistic visual style, featuring watercolor landscapes, stunning creatures, and a serene atmosphere, creates a captivating fairy-tale setting.
Ara: History Untold
- Release Date: September 24, 2024
- Developer: Oxide Games
- Platform: 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 significant consequences. Beautiful maps, varied historical eras, and a focus on personalization make Ara: History Untold a refreshing take on strategy gaming.
2024 promises a gaming paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore previously unimaginable worlds. These PC and Xbox Series X|S exclusives not only revive beloved franchises but also unlock exciting new universes. Whether it's surviving in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, embarking on an epic journey in Avowed, or experiencing the magic of Everwild, there's something for every gamer.
