Video Game Trends to Watch in 2025

Mitchell Booth, 27 May 2025

Video Game Trends in 2025 and What to Expect in 2026

The video game industry in 2025 is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by rapid technological advancements thanks to AI and evolving player preferences. As we look ahead to 2026, several emerging trends and innovations promise to further revolutionize the gaming experience. Key Gaming Trends in 2025

1. AI-Driven Gameplay: Artificial Intelligence is increasingly integrated into game development, enhancing non-player character (NPC) behaviors and creating more dynamic, responsive game worlds. For instance, Epic Games introduced an AI-powered Darth Vader character in Fortnite, capable of interacting with players in real-time, marking a significant step towards more immersive gaming experiences.


2. Glasses-Free 3D Technology: Advancements in display technology have led to the resurgence of 3D gaming without the need for special glasses. Companies like Samsung and Lenovo are developing monitors and laptops with eye-tracking and AI-driven motion prediction, offering players a more comfortable and engaging visual experience.


3. User-Generated Content (UGC): Games are increasingly embracing UGC, allowing players to create and share their own content within game ecosystems. This trend fosters community engagement and extends the longevity of games by continuously introducing fresh content.


4. Live Service Models: The popularity of live service games continues to grow, with titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Destiny 2 offering regular updates, seasonal events, and new content to keep players engaged over time.

Anticipated Innovations and Releases in 2026

Looking forward to 2026, the gaming industry is poised to introduce several groundbreaking developments:

• Highly Anticipated Game Releases: Titles such as The Elder Scrolls VI, Fable, Kingdom Hearts IV, and The Sims 5 are expected to launch players expansive worlds and new gameplay mechanics.


• Enhanced AI Integration: Building upon 2025's advancements, AI is set to play a more significant role in game development, from procedural content generation to adaptive storytelling, providing personalized gaming experiences.


• Expansion of Cloud Gaming: With improvements in internet infrastructure, cloud gaming is anticipated to become more mainstream, allowing players to stream high-quality games on various devices without the need for powerful hardware.


• Rise of Indie Games: Independent game developers are expected to gain more prominence, delivering innovative and diverse gaming experiences that challenge traditional AAA titles.

As the video gaming landscape continues to evolve, players can look forward to more immersive, personalized, and accessible online gaming experiences in the coming years.