Must-Play Games Coming After August 2025: Your Ultimate Before You Buy Guide

As we move past mid-August 2025, the gaming calendar is heating up with some of the most anticipated releases of the year. From legendary franchise remakes to brand-new entries in beloved series, the coming weeks promise to deliver unforgettable gaming experiences. Here's your comprehensive guide to the must-play titles launching after August 12th, helping you decide which games deserve your hard-earned money.
TLDR: Key Releases at a Glance
- Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater - August 28, 2025 (PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC)
- Shinobi: Art of Vengeance - August 29, 2025 (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
- NBA 2K26 - September 5, 2025 (PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
- Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles - September 30, 2025 (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, Switch, PC)
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater (August 28, 2025)
What to Expect
The legendary stealth action game returns as a full remake, preserving the original's tactical espionage action while introducing stunning modern visuals. This isn't just a remaster—it's a complete reconstruction using Unreal Engine 5, bringing Snake's Cold War mission to life with unprecedented detail.
Key Features
- Fully remade graphics with photorealistic environments and character models
- Modernized controls while maintaining classic gameplay options
- Return of the Snake vs Monkey mini-game mode
- Fox Hunt multiplayer mode (arriving late 2025)
- Available in Standard, Deluxe, and Collector's Editions
Is It Worth Buying?
Yes, especially for: Fans of the original who want to experience the classic with modern polish, newcomers who missed the PS2 era, and stealth game enthusiasts. The absence of Kojima has raised some concerns, but early previews suggest Konami has treated the source material with respect.
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance (August 29, 2025)
What to Expect
SEGA's legendary ninja returns in a brand-new 2D action game that blends classic arcade gameplay with modern design sensibilities. Early hands-on impressions from Summer Game Fest 2025 have been overwhelmingly positive, praising the fluid combat and gorgeous pixel art.
Key Features
- Stunning hand-drawn 2D visuals with smooth 60fps gameplay
- Classic ninja abilities: wall-running, stealth kills, and shuriken throwing
- Deluxe Edition includes the highly anticipated SEGA Villains Stage
- Cross-generation release ensures wide accessibility
Is It Worth Buying?
Absolutely for: Fans of 2D action games, retro gaming enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoyed the classic Shinobi titles. The game strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern game design.
NBA 2K26 (September 5, 2025)
What to Expect
The annual basketball simulation returns with its most ambitious entry yet, featuring enhanced MyCAREER storytelling, improved gameplay mechanics, and full Nintendo Switch 2 support for the first time.
Key Features
- First NBA 2K game optimized for Switch 2 hardware
- Revamped MyCAREER with branching storylines
- New ProPLAY technology for more realistic animations
- Cross-platform MyTEAM progress
Is It Worth Buying?
Consider if: You're a basketball fan who skipped 2K25, own a Switch 2, or primarily play MyCAREER mode. Annual sports releases can feel incremental, so evaluate based on which modes you play most.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles (September 30, 2025)
What to Expect
The beloved tactical RPG finally gets the definitive treatment fans have been requesting for years. This collection includes both the original Final Fantasy Tactics and the War of the Lions edition, fully remastered with quality-of-life improvements.
Key Features
- HD-2D visual style similar to Octopath Traveler
- Includes all content from both original and War of the Lions
- New job classes and rebalanced gameplay
- Full voice acting for story scenes
- Cross-save functionality across all platforms
Is It Worth Buying?
Essential for: SRPG fans, Final Fantasy completionists, and anyone who missed this classic. The HD-2D treatment and quality-of-life improvements make this the definitive way to experience one of gaming's greatest tactical RPGs.
Pro Tips for Smart Purchases
- Wait for Reviews: Metal Gear Solid Delta launches just two weeks away—early reviews will reveal if it honors the original
- Consider Editions: Deluxe editions often include season passes—evaluate if you'll actually play the DLC
- Platform Performance: Check Digital Foundry analyses for your platform of choice
- Pre-order Carefully: Only pre-order if bonuses are substantial or you're certain about the purchase
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't buy NBA 2K26 at launch if you're primarily a MyTEAM player—wait for the first content drop
- Avoid assuming remakes will include all modern features—check what's actually included
- Don't skip Shinobi because it's 2D—modern 2D games often provide the best gameplay value
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered
Q: Will Metal Gear Solid Delta have the original voice acting?
A: Yes, both the original and new voice acting will be available as options.
Q: Is Shinobi: Art of Vengeance getting a physical release?
A: Yes, physical editions are confirmed for all platforms except PC.
Q: Will Final Fantasy Tactics support mods?
A: No official mod support has been announced, but the PC version may have community solutions.
Looking Beyond September
The gaming calendar for late 2025 continues to impress with titles like Borderlands 4, the mysterious Switch 2 launch lineup, and several unannounced holiday releases. Stay tuned for our October preview coming soon, where we'll dive deep into the fall gaming season.
Remember: The best game is the one you'll actually play. Choose wisely based on your preferences, available time, and platform of choice. Happy gaming!