As we ushered in the new year of 2025, the gaming world didn't see a slowdown in exciting developments. January may traditionally be a quieter month, but plenty of significant releases and headlines have already caught gamers' attention. Here’s a rundown of everything happening in the gaming landscape this month, from anticipated game launches to surprising studio statements.

13 Must-Play Games to Kick Off the New Year

With a new year comes a fresh array of games, and January 2025 is no different. While it’s often seen as a time to catch up on backlogs, there are still some exciting titles making their way to shelves. For instance, Spider-Man 2 is now available on PC, allowing fans of the franchise to experience this blockbuster at new levels of detail. Smaller titles, including some obscure tactical RPGs from the PlayStation 2 era, are also set to make their debut. Make sure to keep your eyes on these releases to kickstart your gaming year!

Apple Halts Vision Pro VR Production Amid Pricing Concerns

In a surprising twist, Apple has reportedly paused production of its Vision Pro mixed-reality goggles, originally priced at a staggering $3,500. Despite the tech giant's reputation for commanding premium prices for its products, the lofty price point has raised eyebrows, leading to speculation about its viability in the competitive VR market. It appears that consumer interest has not matched Apple's high expectations, prompting the company to reevaluate its approach.

Steam's Unexpected Horror Hit: MiSide

Among the latest sensations on Steam is MiSide, a psychological horror game drawing comparisons to the popular Doki Doki Literature Club. This indie darling has surged in popularity, thanks to glowing reviews and influential streamers like Markiplier showcasing its unique blend of thriller elements. With an impressive rating just weeks after launch, it’s certainly a title worth checking out for horror enthusiasts.

2025: The Year of Elder Scrolls IV's Unofficial Remake

Fans of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion are in for a treat as a stunning fan-based remake using the Skyrim engine is anticipated to drop this year. Unlike many other fan projects that face legal threats, Bethesda has taken a remarkably open stance, allowing creativity within its gaming communities to flourish. After last year's Daggerfall remake, this upcoming title is expected to breathe new life into the classic, much-loved RPG experience.

Magnus Carlsen Causes Controversy at Chess Tournament

In a bizarre chess-related incident, former world champion Magnus Carlsen made headlines for refusing to change out of his jeans at a tournament, leading to potential fines and further tensions with the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Such scandals often garner attention and spark conversations about attire and etiquette in professional sports.

Helldivers 2 Developer Advocates for Focus on Game Quality

After the success of Helldivers 2, which sold over 10 million copies, the game's creative director encouraged gamers to prioritize enjoyable gaming experiences rather than political statements in gaming narratives. This reflects a broader dialogue in the industry about the balance between storytelling, art, and entertainment.

Google's Controversial Ban on Balatro

In a perplexing move, Google attempted to ban the game Luck Be a Landlord, which inspired Balatro, due to concerns about its gambling-like aesthetics. However, the game doesn’t involve real money gambling, prompting discussions about censorship in gaming platforms and the interpretation of age ratings.

January’s Free PS Plus Games Include a Notable Flop

For January, PlayStation Plus subscribers can access Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, a title that faced backlash after its live service model disappointed many fans. With changes now in place, players can explore the final season and the long-sought offline mode, offering a renewed experience for users.

Nintendo's Exciting New AI Technology Ahead of Switch 2

The speculation surrounding the Switch 2 heats up with the reveal of a new AI-upscaling technology patent filed by Nintendo. This innovative approach could significantly enhance game graphics without demanding large storage spaces, raising anticipation for the next-generation console’s capabilities as hardware leaks continue to fuel discussions.

Black Myth: Wukong's Xbox Release Delays Explained

Despite its success on PC and PlayStation 5, the developers of Black Myth: Wukong cited challenges inherent to the Xbox Series S as the cause of its delayed console release. Game Science CEO Feng Ji clarified via social media that technical limitations have impacted their timeline, stirring conversation within the community about the future of cross-platform releases.