Summer Games Fest 2025: Biggest Reveals & Highlights

A Global Celebration of Video Games in Los Angeles

Summer Games Fest 2025 returned to Los Angeles this June, bringing together fans and developers in a global celebration of video games. Hosted at the iconic YouTube Theater, the event welcomed attendees to join Geoff Keighley in unveiling the year’s biggest and boldest upcoming releases.

Gamers experienced premieres, demos, and deep dives into new games launching on PC, consoles, and streaming platforms. From cinematic RPGs to fast-paced action, Summer Games Fest proved once again why it's the ultimate stage for future-defining experiences.

What Were the Biggest Surprises at Summer Games Fest 2025?

Among the biggest surprises at Summer Games Fest 2025 were the reveal of Resident Evil Requiem, Hitman: Joker Protocol, and Mortal Shell II. With unexpected DLC crossovers, indie showstoppers, and the return of beloved franchises, the event exceeded fan expectations with memorable shock announcements and inventive gameplay concepts.

Highlights Included:

• Resident Evil Requiem (Capcom): The next evolution in the Resident Evil franchise debuted with a chilling trailer and a release date slated for October.
• Concord (Sony Interactive Entertainment): An intergalactic team shooter using Unreal Engine, this PlayStation exclusive emphasized dynamic playstyles and narrative depth.
• Sonic Racing: Drift Dimensions: A fresh take on the high-speed series, optimized for Switch and Xbox Series X, with new modes and characters in the roster.
• Marvel Cosmic Invasion: A visually stunning RPG combining tactical gameplay and open world exploration, launching across all major platforms this September.

Spotlight on Sci-Fi and Supernatural Thrills

This year, space games and supernatural themes dominated the conversation. One of the show’s highlights was Supermassive Games' Theater of Idols, a narrative horror title blending performance art with dread, reminiscent of their work on The Quarry.

Notable Mentions:

• Light No Fire (Hello Games): Pushing boundaries with a fantasy-planet sim the size of Earth, built in Unreal Engine.
• Outer Worlds: Directive Reborn: A reimagined interstellar RPG with deep customization and emergent gameplay, arriving this August.
• Planet of Lana: First Light: A serene yet emotional puzzle adventure and prequel to the 2022 hit.
• Mortal Shell II: A soulslike sequel that refines stamina-based combat with a new “Way of the Sword” mechanic.

Indie Gems and Day of the Devs Showcase

The Day of the Devs showcase spotlighted acclaimed indies like Grave Seasons, an eerie farming sim where every villager may be hiding a dark secret. Also praised was Own Blood, an introspective 2D action game from Annapurna Interactive that uses music by Beethoven to accentuate emotional beats.

Additional indie favorites included:

• Scott Pilgrim EX: A pixel-art beat ‘em up with co-op features and narrative choices.
• Hitman World of Assassination: Joker Protocol: A surprise DLC crossover with a new mission in Gotham City.

Final Thoughts: A Long Time Coming

After months of anticipation, Summer Games Fest 2025 delivered a line-up well worth the wait. For many, it was their first time attending the event in-person, and the excitement was palpable throughout the YouTube Theater.

With major announcements from Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo, the event set the tone for a groundbreaking year in gaming. Whether you're into space epics, atmospheric horror, or light-hearted platformers, this year's Fest proved there's something for everyone.

As we head into October, the release date calendar is packed, and gamers across the globe are ready to dive into the future.