As the year draws to a close, gamers are faced with the daunting task of chiseling away at their game backlogs.
Historically, the beginning of a new year offered a generous window of several months to catch up on previous titles.
However, that grace period has been trimmed to just a few weeks.
While January may typically serve as a breather before February’s game deluge, exciting new releases still beckon.
Here’s a glance at what to expect this month, spanning everything from the PC version of Spider-Man 2 to under-the-radar tactical RPG gems from the PlayStation 2 days.
Upcoming Game Releases
- Wuthering Waves – January 2
Kickstarting the month on January 2 is Wuthering Waves, a gacha RPG that has captivated players on mobile devices.With combat that’s more intense than that found in Genshin Impact, this title is gearing up to make its console debut, prominently on the PS5.
- Freedom Wars Remastered – January 10
The beloved Freedom Wars originally shone on the PlayStation Vita, and it’s making a comeback more than ten years later.Set for January 10, this remaster will grace the PS4, PS5, Switch, and PC platforms, boasting enhanced mechanics, improved controls, and graphics tailored for newcomers keen on exploring its darkly humorous sci-fi universe.
- Donkey Kong Country Returns HD – January 16
On January 16, nostalgia will sweep in as Donkey Kong Country Returns receives a fresh update for the Nintendo Switch.While it may not rival the critical acclaim of Tropical Freeze, this revamped version retains classic platforming and collectible elements, alongside a “modern” mode that offers players extra health to soften the original’s difficulty.
- Dynasty Warriors Origins – January 17
A much-anticipated return for the Dynasty Warriors franchise arrives on January 17 with Dynasty Warriors Origins, the first release in seven years.This iteration embraces a more streamlined narrative, rooted in history, while delivering the classic gameplay of battling thousands of enemies.
Demos have showcased the thrill of facing legendary characters like Lu Bu on platforms like PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
- Tales of Graces F Remastered – January 17
Also dropping on January 17 is Tales of Graces F Remastered, which revives one of the prominent entries in the Tales series.Originally transitioning from the Wii to PS3 in HD, this enhanced version aims to elevate the well-loved RPG known for its dynamic combat system, despite a somewhat predictable storyline.
- Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist – January 22
January 22 sees the arrival of Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist, a sequel to a critically acclaimed Soulslike Metroidvania.Following its successful early access run on Steam last year, this game will fully launch on consoles with stunning visuals and a captivating soundtrack.
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth – January 23
Unfolding on January 23 is Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, expected to be a visual masterpiece in 2024.Continuing the beloved narrative of the original, this RPG has sparked buzz though the sequel’s ending has triggered mixed opinions among fans.
- Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles – January 23
Also making its debut on January 23, Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles reinterprets The Phantom Menace, transforming it into an exhilarating platforming beat ’em up experience that channels the delight of classic arcade gameplay. - Eternal Strands – January 28
On January 28, players can dive into Eternal Strands, a third-person action-adventure featuring boss battles and magical mechanics.Drawing inspiration from titles like Shadow of the Colossus and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, players will harness telekinetic skills using a magical cloak.
- Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero – January 30
Continuing the journey of heartfelt storytelling, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero arrives on January 30, expanding on its PS2 predecessor.This tactical RPG follows a young girl and her ghostly companion as they embark on a quest to unite phantoms with their past.
- Sniper Elite: Resistance – January 30
On the same day, Sniper Elite: Resistance picks up where Sniper Elite 5 left off, chronicling Harry Hawker’s tactical endeavors against Axis forces.With its trademark slow-motion mechanics, players will experience a historical tale of altering World War II’s course.
- Spider-Man 2 – January 30
The excitement peaks on January 30 with the eagerly awaited PC launch of Spider-Man 2.Arriving on Steam less than two years after its PS5 debut, players can swap between iconic characters, including Miles Morales, as they confront familiar foes like Kraven the Hunter and Venom in a vast narrative landscape.
- Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector – January 31
Wrapping up the month, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector will hit stores on January 31.Building on its predecessor’s acclaim as a game of the year contender in 2022, this sequel promises to deepen the tabletop role-playing dynamics and story richness players either adored or missed.
Diverse Gaming Experience
With such a diverse range of titles on the horizon, January 2025 is set to be an exhilarating month for gamers.
Whether diving into remastered classics or exploring fresh narratives, there’s something here for everyone eager to start the year on a high note.
Source: Kotaku