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 PC's flexibility to bring ambitious visions to life.
This article highlights the most anticipated games slated for release on PC and Xbox, but not on PlayStation consoles. Prepare to upgrade your hardware or reconsider your gaming platform allegiance – these are games worth experiencing.
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 hazardous and enigmatic Exclusion Zone. GSC Game World has prioritized atmospheric immersion, featuring dynamic weather, meticulously detailed environments, and a refined AI system that creates a truly believable, yet unforgiving, world. Deadly anomalies, terrifying mutants, and ruthless competition for resources await.
This game blends deep, non-linear storytelling with classic hardcore survival mechanics. Every decision shapes the narrative, while the stunning Unreal Engine 5 visuals immerse you in 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 is fraught with peril, rewarding only the most tenacious players.
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
Image: senuassaga.com
- Release Date: May 21, 2024
- Developer: Ninja Theory
- Download: Steam
This sequel to the critically acclaimed psychological adventure pushes the boundaries of video games as art. Ninja Theory delves even deeper into mythology and the protagonist's harrowing 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. Remarkable graphics and motion capture technology bring Senua's every expression and movement to life with haunting realism. The dark, mystical landscapes and unsettling atmosphere create a unique experience where every encounter is a test, and sound plays a crucial role in understanding the narrative. This is more than action; it’s a journey into the depths of the human psyche.
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 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 steeped in corruption and despair, forms the backdrop for a struggle for freedom and meaning.
Replaced boasts a striking visual style, blending pixel art with cinematic 3D effects. The gameplay features dynamic combat, acrobatic movement, and exploration inspired by classic platformers. The synthwave soundtrack perfectly complements the dark retro-futuristic atmosphere.
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 seen in the Pillars of Eternity series. This time, the experience is rendered in full 3D from a first-person perspective. Magic, epic battles, rich lore, and compelling characters underpin 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 foes. Obsidian promises large-scale battles, a compelling narrative, and a rich role-playing experience.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
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- Release Date: November 19, 2024
- Developer: Microsoft
- Download: Steam
The legendary flight simulation series continues to push the boundaries of 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 tackle missions such as firefighting, rescue operations, and even aerial construction.
The upgraded engine delivers unprecedented realism in weather, air currents, and aircraft control, 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 landscape. Studio Wildcard promises significant improvements across the board, from Unreal Engine 5 enhanced visuals to revamped survival mechanics, crafting, and dinosaur interactions. Vin Diesel's presence adds cinematic weight to the narrative.
Ark II features a vast open world brimming with both threats and opportunities. Improved enemy AI, refined combat, and a deep progression system create a truly immersive experience. Dinosaur interaction is central, with smarter and more realistic creatures.
Everwild
Image: insidexbox.de
- Release Date: 2025
- Developer: Rare
Rare's mysterious and captivating game invites players into a magical world teeming with natural magic and fantastical creatures. Exploration and interaction with the unique ecosystem are central, where every detail is interconnected and vital to the natural balance. The core theme revolves around the relationship between humanity and the natural world, uncovering its secrets and living in harmony.
Rare promises a unique experience where fostering connections with the environment and its inhabitants is paramount, surpassing the importance of combat. The game's artistic visual style, featuring watercolor landscapes, stunning creatures, and a tranquil atmosphere, creates a captivating fairy-tale-like setting.
Ara: History Untold
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- 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 variety, allowing players to freely combine cultural, technological, and political elements to forge their unique society.
Innovative AI and deep simulation ensure that every decision, from diplomacy to economics, has significant consequences. Beautiful maps, diverse eras, and a focus on personalization make Ara: History Untold a fresh take on strategy gaming.
2024 promises an exceptional year for PC and Xbox Series X/S gamers, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore worlds once deemed impossible. These exclusives not only revitalize beloved franchises but also introduce exciting new universes. Whether you crave survival in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, epic adventure in Avowed, or the magical allure of Everwild, there's something for every gamer.