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Xbox Showcase 2025: All the Biggest Game Reveals, Trailers & Surprises

5 min read
By Tommy Danks

The Xbox Showcase 2025: A Flurry of Surprises and a Glimpse into the Future

Well, the dust has finally settled on the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, and what a whirlwind it was. For about an hour, Microsoft unleashed a torrent of trailers, announcements, and a few genuine surprises that have left the gaming community buzzing. It was a packed presentation, showcasing a dizzying array of titles from both their first-party studios and partners around the globe. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's break down the biggest moments from the show.

The Big Guns Come Out Swinging

Microsoft certainly didn't hold back, leading with some of its most anticipated titles. We got a fresh look at the steampunk-inspired RPG, Clockwork Revolution, with an extended gameplay trailer that delved deeper into its time-bending mechanics and ambitious world. The visuals are looking incredibly sharp, and the promise of a spiritual successor to Arcanum has me personally very excited.

Then there was the double-header from Obsidian Entertainment, who not only gave us a deep dive into The Outer Worlds 2 but also surprised everyone with the announcement of Grounded 2. The Outer Worlds 2 is shaping up to be a chaotic and humorous adventure, with a confirmed release date of October 29, 2025. The deep-dive that followed the main showcase revealed more about the game's factions and the sheer number of perks available, some of which sound delightfully unhinged.

And, of course, the show closed with the "one more thing" moment we all anticipate: the world premiere of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Set in 2035, the trailer hinted at a mind-bending narrative that continues the story from Black Ops 2 and 6, focusing on psychological warfare. It was a bizarre and intriguing trailer that felt more like a psychological horror film than a typical Call of Duty entry.

A Treasure Trove of New and Returning Favorites

Beyond the established heavy-hitters, the showcase was brimming with exciting new announcements and updates on beloved franchises. Here are some of the highlights that caught my eye:

  • A New Handheld on the Horizon: In a move that surprised many, Microsoft unveiled the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, a partnership with Asus to create a new line of handheld gaming devices. The Ally X will boast an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor and is set to launch this holiday season.
  • The Return of a Legend: We finally got a gameplay reveal for Ninja Gaiden 4, and it looks every bit as fast-paced and bloody as you'd hope. Developed by Platinum Games, the combat seems to have that signature stylish flair we've come to expect. Mark your calendars for its release on October 21, 2025.
  • Indie Darlings and Unexpected Sequels: The showcase was a great platform for indie titles and surprise sequels. We saw the reveal of Super Meat Boy 3D, a new adventure for the brutally difficult platformer, and High on Life 2, continuing the crass and humorous shooter. We also got a look at Planet of Lana 2: Children of the Leaf, which promises to expand on the beautiful and emotional journey of the first game.
  • Final Fantasy Finally Arrives: In a huge win for Xbox players, it was announced that Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade will be coming to the platform this winter, with Final Fantasy XVI available today!
  • A Glimpse of What's to Come: Phil Spencer closed the show with a look ahead to 2026, which will mark the 25th anniversary of Xbox. He teased a new Fable, the next Forza, and Gears of War: E-Day, as well as "the return of a classic that's been with us since the beginning."

The Games We're Still Waiting For

While the showcase was packed with announcements, there were a few notable absences. Many were hoping for a concrete release date for State of Decay 3, but it was not featured in the show. Similarly, while we got a pre-alpha gameplay look at Fable earlier this year, it was also missing from the main event, with its release window pushed to 2026. And while we saw a gameplay trailer for Perfect Dark last year, we're still waiting on a firm release date, though it's reportedly targeting a late 2025 launch.

My Take on the Showcase

Overall, I'd say the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 was a strong showing. It was a relentless barrage of games, with a healthy mix of first-party blockbusters, exciting third-party partnerships, and intriguing indie titles. The announcement of the Xbox handheld was a genuine surprise and a clear sign that Microsoft is serious about expanding its ecosystem.

I have to admit, I was a little disappointed by the absence of Fable and a solid release date for State of Decay 3. I've been waiting for those two for what feels like an eternity. I remember getting my first Xbox 360 just to play the original Gears of War in my first apartment, and the nostalgia hit hard seeing the Gears of War: Reloaded announcement. It's a reminder of how long some of us have been on this journey with Xbox.

But even with those minor gripes, it's hard to deny the sheer volume and variety of games on display. From the dark fantasy of The Blood of Dawnwalker to the quirky charm of Double Fine's new game, Keeper, there's a lot to look forward to. What did you think of the showcase? What was your biggest surprise, and what are you most excited to play? Let me know in the comments below!