As temperatures rise, so does the excitement in the gaming world. July 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most diverse months of the year for video game releases, catering to fans of platformers, pixel art action, and sports simulations. Whether you’re a Nintendo fan eagerly awaiting the next big Switch 2 title, a retro action junkie, or a sports enthusiast, there’s something to look forward to. Here’s a closer look at the top three titles making waves this month.
Donkey Kong Bananza – A Platforming Giant Returns (July 17)
Easily one of the most anticipated games of the month, Donkey Kong Bananza is Nintendo’s major summer release for the Switch 2. While the system’s launch lineup had its critics, Bananza has quickly turned heads thanks to a stunning showcase during the latest Nintendo Direct. Developed by the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey, this game marks a bold new direction for the iconic primate.
Unlike Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, Bananza adopts a full 3D platforming style, offering lush environments, creative level design, and a whimsical adventure that feels more akin to Mario’s latest outings. The game’s vibrant visuals and imaginative mechanics promise a blend of nostalgia and modern flair, appealing to longtime fans and new players alike. With Nintendo staggering its first-party releases, Donkey Kong Bananza looks set to dominate the summer release calendar.
EA Sports College Football 26 – The Sequel to a Modern Classic (July 10)
Following the smashing success of EA Sports College Football 25, the latest installment, College Football 26, arrives to high expectations. This franchise made a historic return last year after over a decade of dormancy, driven by changes in how college athletes are compensated. Now, EA aims to build on that momentum with improved gameplay, expanded features, and updated rosters for the 2025 season.
The excitement around College Football 26 is palpable, especially with fans praising its more authentic presentation and strategic depth compared to other football sims. EA has promised refinements to Dynasty Mode, deeper recruiting mechanics, and enhanced visuals for next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. For college football fans, this is a must-play that continues to define the gold standard for the genre.
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound – Old-School Challenge, New-School Style (July 31)
Rounding out the month with a stylish bang is Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a 2D side-scrolling spinoff that taps directly into the DNA of the franchise’s NES roots. Developed by The Game Kitchen, the acclaimed studio behind Blasphemous, Ragebound offers a visually stunning pixel-art experience steeped in punishing difficulty and atmospheric storytelling.
While fans wait for the more mainstream Ninja Gaiden 4 coming later in October, Ragebound fills a different niche. It caters to those who crave old-school action with modern polish — fast combat, complex enemy patterns, and a dark, gothic aesthetic. The early Steam demo has already drawn praise for its fluid controls and haunting soundtrack. It’s also releasing on a wide range of platforms, including PS5, Xbox, Switch, and PC, making it highly accessible.
Honorable Mentions: From Tony Hawk to Tales of the Shire
Beyond the top three, July 2025 is jam-packed with notable titles. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 remasters drop on July 11, bringing two of the best skateboarding games to modern platforms. Meanwhile, Tales of the Shire, a cozy Lord of the Rings life sim, launches on July 29 for fans who prefer peaceful, story-rich experiences.
From adrenaline-pumping action to thoughtful strategy and relaxation, July 2025 has something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re swinging through jungle treetops, dominating the college football playoffs, or slicing through pixelated enemies with a katana, this month’s top game releases offer diverse experiences for all kinds of players. Make sure to clear your schedule—and maybe your wallet—for Donkey Kong Bananza, EA Sports College Football 26, and Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. July 2025 is a month to remember for gamers.
