For ages now, extreme sports games have carved out a unique niche within the vibrant realm of gaming. From the nostalgic grind of Tony Hawk to the exhilarating slopes of SSX, and the immersive world of Skate, not to mention captivating recent entries like Riders Republic, these titles have solidified their presence across decades.
What is it about these games that captures the hearts of both sports enthusiasts and casual gamers? Perhaps it’s the rush, the adrenaline-fueled speed, the sheer exhilaration! Much like racing games, there’s a relaxing cadence to the gameplay for some — Riders Republic, for instance, invites you to bask in its breathtaking, nature-rich expanse as you cruise through on two wheels.
As the popularity of this genre surges, it feels like there’s an endless flow of new titles in development. While some are birthed from small indie teams, others emerge from the minds of solitary developers. With 2025 on the horizon, let’s take a look at a few thrilling upcoming extreme sports games that should be on your radar.
Descenders Next
Descenders Next serves as an exciting sequel to the beloved mountain biking adventure of Descenders. However, the creative team at No More Robots has taken a bold leap into uncharted thrilling territory, focusing this sequel on snowboarding and mountainboarding.
Fear not, ardent fans of the original, as the developers have promised ongoing updates for Descenders even after Descenders Next hits the shelves. Anticipated for release in 2025, you can expect to find it available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam, with Game Pass access too! PlayStation enthusiasts will have to wait a tad longer for their version.
The official gameplay has already dazzled spectators, showcasing both snowboarding and mountainboarding that evoke the spirit of SSX, while adhering to the exhilarating downhill elements that defined the original game.
Skate Story
Created by the visionary solo developer Sam Eng, Skate Story has been a labor of love over the past few years, inching ever closer to its long-awaited release. In this unique narrative, you embody a glass demon skating through the underworld on a chilling quest to devour the moon. Yes, you read that correctly!
The visuals are nothing short of stunning, paired with an auditory experience that promises to be just as engaging. Engage in fierce battles against demons, save wayward souls, and navigate through this captivating realm.
With over 70 tricks to master, this game isn’t all about the story. Amidst your adventures, the core of Skate Story remains true to its name—skateboarding reigns supreme!
Skate. (Skate 4)
After a staggering 15-year hiatus, the iconic Skate series is primed for its thrilling comeback! Announced back in 2020, this highly anticipated entry has been brewing in the shadows, with playtest sessions launching in recent months.
Mark your calendars for an Early Access debut in 2025! Nostalgic fans will be pleased to find the cherished “Flick It” feature returning, ensuring a familiar experience for seasoned players. Moreover, a sprawling new open world awaits exploration.
This new title is set to transcend traditional boundaries, evolving into a kind of skateboard MMO, allowing numerous players to skate concurrently across the mapped landscape. You won’t just be limited to skating; the game infuses parkour elements, inviting you to scale edifices and leap from one structure to another, reminiscent of a modern-day Spider-Man experience. Best of all, it’s free-to-play, so brace yourselves for a massive influx of players on launch day—along with a plethora of microtransactions!
Sword Of The Sea
While Sword of the Sea may not be categorized strictly as a sports game, it beckons players with adventures underpinned by sport-like mechanics. Picture yourself cruising through a breathtaking world on a snowboard-type contraption known as the Hoversword—yes, tricks galore await you!
Crafted by former developers of the acclaimed Journey, often cited as a masterpiece in gaming, this title evokes a similar sense of exploration and wonder. Echoes of skateboarding and snowboarding inspirations are woven throughout its design.
Featuring a score by Grammy-winning composer Austin Wintory, the marriage of world-building, art style, and music in Sword of the Sea presents a tantalizing concoction. Yet, alas, the release date remains a tantalizing mystery. We are left to ponder and anticipate.
Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders
Following the success of the indie gem Lonely Mountains: Downhill, the forthcoming Snow Riders takes players from rugged mountain bike trails to exhilarating snowy slopes on skis. Experience the same charming graphic aesthetic and addictive gameplay from its predecessor while navigating new wintry challenges.
A standout enhancement is the introduction of multiplayer capabilities! Now you can race alongside friends and global players, adding layers of enjoyment to this already delightful series.
No official release date has graced our screens as we approach year’s end. Nevertheless, whispers hint at a release before 2024 wraps up, though it wouldn’t be shocking if it slips into 2025. Until then, players can tantalize their gaming appetites with the free demo currently available on Steam.
