A new video game based on the iconic Friday the 13th franchise is officially in development, igniting excitement among fans of horror gaming. During a recent San Diego Comic-Con panel, Robert Barsamian, executive vice president at Horror Inc, revealed that both a sequel game and a new movie are in the works, marking a significant return for the franchise that has been dormant for over a decade. While details remain scarce, Barsamian hinted that the upcoming game may or may not be a direct follow-up to the 2017 title, Friday the 13th: The Game.

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the gaming landscape is already filled with innovative titles that are capturing the hearts of players worldwide. NPR’s staff has curated a list of the best new video games released this year, showcasing a mix of genres that cater to a diverse audience. From immersive RPGs to competitive shooters, these games are not just entertaining; they are pushing the boundaries of technology and storytelling in gaming.

In a recent announcement, Gearbox has confirmed that the standard edition of Borderlands 4 will be priced at $70, quelling fears that it might hit the $80 mark. This decision comes after some controversial comments from CEO Randy Pitchford, who suggested that “real fans” would find a way to pay higher prices for games. The confirmation of a $70 price point is a relief for many gamers who are already facing rising costs in the gaming industry.

The excitement is palpable as the demo for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is now available for players who pre-ordered the game. This demo allows fans to skate through The Foundry level from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and College from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Players can choose to skate as iconic characters like Tony Hawk, Rayssa Leal, and the Doomslayer—though the latter is exclusive to those who opted for the digital deluxe version.

The latest installment in the Dynasty Warriors franchise, Dynasty Warriors: Origins, has sold over 1 million copies globally, yet the series still struggles to gain a foothold in the Western market. Tomohiko Sho, the producer of the game, recently shared in an interview that despite this impressive sales figure, he does not believe the series can yet be labeled a success in the West. This sentiment highlights the ongoing challenges that many franchises face when trying to resonate with audiences outside their home territories.

The gaming world is buzzing with excitement as The Quintessential Quintuplets franchise unveils its latest venture into the realm of role-playing games. The newly released video for Gotōbun no Princess: Gensō to Shinen to Mahō Gakuin introduces a captivating “heart-throbbing dungeon role-playing game” system, marking a significant milestone as the first RPG for this beloved series. This innovative approach not only promises to engage fans of the anime but also attracts a broader audience eager for fresh gaming experiences.