GTA 6, Nintendo's New Console, and Esports Olympics: What to expect in 2025 Gaming

The year 2025 is poised to be a transformative one for the gaming industry, with major releases expected to shape the future of gaming. Following a difficult 2024, which saw widespread layoffs and studio closures, there is hope that 2025 will bring a much-needed recovery. Among the most anticipated games and innovations are Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) and a new console from Nintendo, both of which are expected to make a significant impact on the gaming world.

Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6)

One of the biggest gaming events of 2025 will be the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) by Rockstar Games. Fans have eagerly awaited the sequel, which is set to arrive in autumn, 12 years after GTA 5 broke records. The trailer for GTA 6 was released last December and garnered over 90 million views in just 24 hours, setting the stage for what could be one of the biggest game launches of all time.


The game features dual protagonists and a fictional Florida-inspired setting. A potential release date delay is a concern if no further information is released by summer. GTA 6 is anticipated to boost sales of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles.

Nintendo's new console

Nintendo's new console, compatible with existing Switch games, is expected by the end of March. Although official details remain scarce, there are hints that the new console will build upon the success of the original Switch, which has sold over 146 million units since its 2017 launch. Fans are calling it the "Nintendo Switch 2," though the company has yet to confirm the name or specifications. The new console is likely to feature enhanced processing power while maintaining compatibility with existing Switch games.

Independent games (indies)

Independent games (indies) also gained traction in 2024 with titles like the card game Balatro. The indie sector will continue to produce breakout hits in 2025. However, discoverability remains a challenge for indie developers, with platforms like Steam flooded with new releases. Despite these challenges, there's growing recognition of the creativity within the indie space, and more indie successes are expected to follow.

Esports Olympics

Finally, the first Olympic Esports Games will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2025, marking esports' entry into the Olympic movement. George Osborn, consultant and author of the Video Games Industry Memo newsletter, says, "I think it's an important moment because the Olympic movement has traditionally not been too keen on esports.”