New AAA Tomb Raider game and other major game sequels might be revealed in 2025, according to an industry insider.
The gaming industry is set for an exciting year in 2025, with major releases like Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) and Death Stranding 2 already making headlines. However, recent insider reports suggest that even more high-profile games could be announced this year. Among them are a new AAA Tomb Raider, a AAA Castlevania, a Fire Emblem remake, and even a NieR: Automata follow-up.
A new AAA Tomb Raider could be on the way
It has been nearly seven years since Shadow of the Tomb Raider was released in 2018, leaving fans eagerly waiting for the next big adventure featuring Lara Croft. Now, a reliable industry insider, Daniel Camilo, who writes for GamesIndustry.biz, has suggested that a new AAA Tomb Raider is expected to be announced this year.
While no official details have been confirmed, a new AAA Tomb Raider game has been in development for a while now. The next entry in the series was originally announced back in 2022, even before Embracer Group acquired the studio and IP from Square Enix. Since then, development has been ongoing, while remastered collections have kept the franchise alive—Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered is set to launch next week.
Given that it has already been three years since its announcement, a full reveal in 2025 seems likely. Some speculate that we might see it towards the end of the year at Gamescom or The Game Awards (TGAs). Additionally, 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the Tomb Raider franchise, making it the perfect time for a major release.
Castlevania’s long-awaited return
Another major title that might finally return is Castlevania. According to sources from Geekinout, a new Castlevania AAA game is in development and will likely be revealed this year. If true, this would mark the first major Castlevania game in over a decade, following Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 in 2014.
Although the developer of the new instalment remains unknown, speculation suggests that Mercury Steam—known for the Lords of Shadow series and Metroid Dread—could be involved. The studio is currently working on multiple projects, and one of them might be the highly anticipated return of the Castlevania franchise.
Well, unlike Tomb Raider, Castlevania has had no prior indications of another game until now. While Konami has been busy reviving its other legendary franchises, like Silent Hill and Metal Gear Solid, the Castlevania series has remained largely dormant.
Other major franchises expected to return in 2025
The insider reports also mention other major franchises that could make a comeback this year, including:
- Fire Emblem Remake – A remake of Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War has been rumored for years, with multiple sources, including NateTheHate, hinting at its existence. Given that 2025 is likely the final year of the Nintendo Switch’s life cycle, it makes sense for this project to finally be announced, possibly in an upcoming Nintendo Direct.
- NieR: Automata Sequel – NieR creator Yoko Taro has been teasing a new project, but without confirming details. During 4Gamer’s end-of-year interviews, NieR Automata producer Yosuke Saito hinted that 2025 marks the franchise’s 15th anniversary and suggested that “maybe something with the next game or developments related to that” could happen. With so many teases, a reveal this year seems highly likely.
- EA Sports FC 26 – The next installment of EA’s football franchise, expected as an annual release.
With so many high-profile games rumored for 2025, the gaming industry could be looking at one of the most exciting years in recent memory. While fans should take these leaks with caution, the potential return of New AAA Tomb Raider, Castlevania, and other beloved franchises is enough to build excitement for upcoming announcements.
