Over the past decade, the action-adventure video game genre has evolved in many exciting ways. Blending immersive storytelling with dynamic gameplay creates unforgettable experiences. These games have become my absolute favourites—what’s not to love? They offer a perfect mix of gripping narratives, pulse-pounding action, and innovative gameplay elements that draw players in on multiple levels. As we look forward to the rest of 2025, the gaming landscape promises to deliver some of the most exciting action-adventure titles yet. I’ve curated a list highlighting critically acclaimed titles, innovative games, and the most anticipated releases that promise to make 2025 a banner year for action gaming. Here are the games that stand out.
Critically acclaimed action adventure video games
2025 kicked off with many action-packed experiences that have garnered critical acclaim. Here are some standout titles and a few personal picks to get your thumbs moving:
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Developer(s): Warhorse Studios
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X|S
This medieval action role-playing game continues the story of Henry, a man-at-arms amidst the turmoil of a civil war. You’ll navigate a richly detailed open world, engaging in quests with multiple approaches and outcomes. The game emphasizes realism, with historically accurate settings and complex character interactions, providing an immersive Middle Ages experience.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Developer(s): Capcom
Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
The thrill of the hunt awaits! Wilds offers detailed environments, tracking, and battling mechanics as you face off against a variety of colossal creatures, each requiring unique strategies and teamwork. The game emphasizes cooperative multiplayer modes, allowing hunters worldwide to join forces.
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD
Developer(s): Retro Studios
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
The classic side-scrolling platformer is back in HD as Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on an adventure to reclaim their stolen banana hoard from the mischievous Tiki Tak Tribe. This game is a real gem if you enjoy Nintendo’s signature platforming action. With 80 levels across nine vibrant worlds, there is plenty to enjoy with both solo and cooperative play.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Developer(s): MachineGames
Platform(s): Xbox Series X/S, PC and PlayStation 5 (Coming Soon)
As a big Indiana Jones fan, I’ll take every opportunity to recommend this game! It launched last year on the Xbox Series X|S and PC to critical acclaim and will be swinging onto the PlayStation 5 in 2025. You step into the shoes of Indiana Jones to investigate a relic theft, secret order, and Nazi leader Emmerich Voss to uncover the secrets of The Great Circle. Get ready for an epic, globe-trotting adventure that offers one of the best Indiana Jones stories to date.
Innovative action adventure video games
If you’re seeking innovative and unique gaming experiences that will leave a lasting impression, these titles offer fresh and engaging adventures:
Split Fiction
Developer(s): Hazelight Studios
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Split Fiction is a cooperative action-adventure gem. You play as two authors, Mio and Zoe, trapped within a simulation that merges their sci-fi and fantasy worlds. Designed for split-screen multiplayer, the game requires two-player collaboration to solve puzzles and overcome platforming challenges. Split Fiction is one of my favourite games of 2025, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Developer(s): Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
The Yakuza series shifts to the Hawaiian Islands, blending its organized crime narratives with pirate-themed misadventures. Navigate an open-world environment, engaging in dynamic combat, exploring tropical locales, and participating in unique side activities that reflect cultural fusion. This installment introduces naval battles and treasure hunts, offering a fresh take on the beloved franchise.
Most anticipated action adventure games
The gaming release calendar is already off to a strong start, but plenty of incredible titles are still on the horizon. Here are some of the biggest action games slated to arrive in 2025:
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Developer(s): Ubisoft
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: March 20th, 2025
As a longtime fan, I’ve been waiting for the series to delve into the Japanese history timeline. Finally, Shadows shifts the creed to Feudal Japan, where you’ll assume the roles of a samurai and shinobi, navigating the politics of warring clans.
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Developer(s): Monolith Soft
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Release Date: March 20th, 2025
This definitive edition revitalizes the expansive world of Mira with enhanced graphics and streamlined mechanics. Explore vast terrains, pilot customizable mechs, and engage in strategic real-time combat.
Atomfall
Developer(s): Rebellion Developments
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: March 27th, 2025
Atomfall is a first-person action-adventure game set in retro-futuristic Northern England ravaged by a nuclear disaster. You must explore the quarantine zone, scavenge, craft, and fight for survival. The irradiated British countryside is filled with bizarre characters, cults, and rogue government agencies. Try to keep calm and carry on!
The First Berserker: Khazan
Developer(s): Neople
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: March 27th, 2025
In this action RPG, you play as General Khazan, a man falsely accused of treason and exiled. Against all odds, Khazan survives and is fueled by a burning desire for vengeance. He embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim his honour and confront those who betrayed him.
South of Midnight
Developer(s): Compulsion Games
Platform(s): Xbox Series X|S and PC
Release Date: April 8th, 2025
Set in the American Deep South, South of Midnight is an action-adventure game that weaves folklore and supernatural elements into its narrative. You’ll encounter mythical creatures and unravel mysteries while exploring the richly atmospheric world.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Developer(s): Sandfall Interactive, Sandfall S.A.S.
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Lead Expedition 33 on a mission to end the Paintress’s cycle of death, where annually, individuals of a specific age vanish due to her cursed paintings. The game introduces a reactive turn-based combat system, blending traditional strategic elements with real-time actions like dodges and parries, enhancing immersion. Featuring a richly woven narrative, players will explore breathtaking landscapes, encounter legendary creatures, and uncover hidden quests.
Days Gone Remastered
Developer(s): Bend Studio
Platform(s): PlayStation 5
Release Date: April 25, 2025
The remastered edition of Days Gone enhances the original post-apocalyptic adventure with improved visuals and performance. You’ll step into the shoes of Deacon St. John, battling hordes of Freakers in a relentless fight for survival.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Developer(s): id Software
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: May 13th, 2025
Step into The Dark Ages as the iconic Doom franchise transports you to a medieval setting. Combining classic demon-slaying action with swordplay and sorcery, this installment offers a fresh yet familiar experience.
Capcom Fighting Collection 2
Developer(s): Capcom, Capcom Production Studio 1, Capcom Production Studio 2, Capcom Production Studio 8
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC
Release Date: May 16, 2025
This collection combines some of Capcom’s most beloved fighting games, remastered for modern platforms. With online multiplayer and enhanced graphics, it celebrates the genre’s rich history with iconic Capcom fighters released between 1998 and 2004. Titles like Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein, Power Stone, Power Stone 2, Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000 Pro, Project Justice and more will be part of the collection.
Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny Remaster
Developer(s): Capcom
Platform(s): PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC
Release Date: May 23, 2025
The remaster of Onimusha 2 offers key upgrades to the graphics and quality-of-life control improvements. The classic samurai action adventure returns with the epic tale of Jubei Yagyu as he battles demonic forces in feudal Japan.
Elden Ring: Nightreign
Developer(s): FromSoftware
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: May 30, 2025
Nightreign is an online cooperative action survival game from the legendary developer FromSoftware. It’s set in a parallel universe to the original Elden Ring game. Players, known as Nightfarers, can team up in groups of three to navigate the ever-changing realm of Limveld, battling formidable bosses.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Developer(s): Kojima Productions
Platform(s): PlayStation 5
Release Date: June 26, 2025
On the Beach continues the story of Sam Porter Bridges from the original Death Stranding. It features the same tone as the original; you’ll explore a haunting post-apocalyptic world with themes of human connection and survival. Expect a mix of emotional storytelling, innovative gameplay, and open-ended encounters enhanced by the return of the Social Strand system.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
Developer(s): Konami Digital Entertainment
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Release Date: August 28, 2025
Snake is back in a faithful remake of the 2004 classic built from the ground up for this generation of consoles. The action-adventure stealth classic follows operative Naked Snake in 1964 as he embarks on a mission to rescue a Russian scientist and neutralize a Soviet nuclear threat during the Cold War. The game features enhanced graphics and updated controls while maintaining the original’s immersive survival mechanics.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Developer(s): Lizardcube, Sega
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: August 26, 2025
The legendary Shinobi series returns with a 2D action platformer featuring distinctive hand-drawn visuals from Lizardcube, the team behind Streets of Rage 4. You step into the shoes of Joe Musashi, a master ninja who discovers his village in ruins and his clan turned to stone. Driven by vengeance, Joe embarks on a path of revenge to confront his enemies and restore his clan’s honour.
Hell Is Us
Developer(s): Rogue Factor
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Release Date: September 4, 2025
Dive into a war-torn land plagued by supernatural creatures in this action-adventure game. As Rémi, you’ll wield melee weapons and a drone to combat the mysterious “Hollow Walkers.” With no maps or quest markers, the game challenges you to rely on intuition and exploration to uncover the secrets that await.
Borderlands 4
Developer(s): Gearbox Software
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC
Release Date: September 23, 2025
The mayhem returns for a new generation in this looter-shooter sequel. Play as one of four new Vault Hunters battling the tyrannical Timekeeper and his mechanical army. With seamless exploration, dynamic combat, and billions of weapons, Borderlands 4 offers solo and co-op gameplay packed with humour, action, and carnage. Gear up for an epic sci-fi adventure that looks to push the series to new heights.
Mafia: The Old Country
Developer(s): Hangar 13
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X/S
Release Date: 2025
The legendary Mafia franchise shifts to 20th-century Sicily, delving into the origins of organized crime. From early trailers and previews, the game offers a narrative set against authentic historical backdrops, characteristic of the Mafia series.
Ninja Gaiden 4
Developer(s): Team Ninja, PlatinumGames
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: Fall 2025
Earlier this year, we were treated to the surprise return of the iconic Ninja Gaiden action series. Co-developed by Team Ninja and PlatinumGames, the latest entry looks to slice onto a console near you for the “Fall 2025” release window. Building upon the franchise’s dark, fast-paced action, it introduces more dynamic gameplay elements like Bloodraven Form and new traversal mechanics.
Ghost of Yotei
Developer(s): Sucker Punch Productions
Platform(s): PlayStation 5
Release Date: 2025
This direct sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, is set in 17th-century Japan, introducing an entirely new protagonist, Atsu. You embark on a perilous journey through feudalist Japan in the Mount Yōtei region. Early looks at the game show expansive grasslands, snowy vistas, and combat with dual katanas. Built from the ground up for the PS5, Ghost of Yotei promises to harness the console’s capabilities, offering enhanced visual fidelity and performance.
Grand Theft Auto VI
Developer(s): Rockstar Games
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: To Be Announced
Grand Theft Auto VI is the forthcoming installment in Rockstar Games’ massively popular open-world series. While specific details remain under wraps, the game is expected to continue the franchise’s tradition of expansive environments, intricate storytelling, and diverse gameplay mechanics. Anticipation is incredibly high for one of the biggest games of the decade, so keep it locked on Best Buy for more news on GTA VI as it breaks, along with pre-order information.
Incredible action games await!
As we look ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for action-adventure games. The lineup is impressive, from the upcoming release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows to the highly anticipated Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. To ensure you don’t miss out on these adventures, consider pre-ordering some of your favourite titles on BestBuy.ca. With so many incredible titles slated to arrive in 2025, which games are you most excited about? Do you have personal favourites to add to this list? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below!
Along with many action and adventure titles, you can explore a wide selection of video games at Best Buy Canada. Happy gaming!
