Horizon Online is shifting the franchise’s focus toward multiplayer, while Assassin’s Creed Shadows reveals its massive campaign scope. Far Cry 7 faces internal delays, and speculation grows around The Last of Us Part 3. Meanwhile, leaks hint at a God of War remaster, a Gears of War collection, and a crowded 2025 release lineup. Here’s a full breakdown of the latest gaming news and what’s ahead.
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Horizon Franchise Update: What’s Next for the Series? (Gaming News)
The Horizon franchise continues to evolve, with a major shift towards online multiplayer. While many expected a new single-player entry this year, industry insiders and leaks suggest that Horizon Online will take center stage before Horizon 3 arrives.
Horizon Forbidden West launched in 2020, three and a half years after Zero Dawn. Following this pattern, a new Horizon game should be revealed in June 2025, but it’s unlikely to be the single-player installment. Reports from September 2024 confirm that Guerrilla Games is prioritizing Horizon Online, pushing Horizon 3 back until at least 2028.
Former Bungie lead designer Chris Proctor has joined Guerrilla Games, bringing expertise in weapon design, AI, and RPG mechanics. His experience from Destiny could significantly shape Horizon Online, making it a more immersive multiplayer experience. Job listings also reveal that Guerrilla is hiring for key leadership roles to develop, launch, and manage a large-scale online game. The ambition appears to align with Destiny, but it remains uncertain whether this new Horizon title will resonate with fans of the single-player experience.
PlayStation has already expanded the Horizon franchise with a LEGO game and a VR title, but Forbidden West’s performance didn’t meet expectations. Sony will need a solid marketing strategy to ensure Horizon Online finds an audience. While Monster Hunter-style games have proven successful, Horizon Online must differentiate itself to compete. A 2025 release seems possible based on job listings, but 2026 appears more realistic.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Campaign Length and Performance Details
Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set to launch on March 20, will feature a 30–40 hour main campaign, with completionists likely spending over 80 hours in the game. This length places it between Origins and Odyssey but remains shorter than Valhalla, which required at least 60–80 hours to reach the credits.
Console performance details have also emerged, confirming multiple modes. The Xbox Series S will only support a 30 FPS fidelity mode with minimal ray tracing. The PS5 Pro offers the best visual experience, with enhanced ray tracing in the 60 FPS mode, surpassing the Xbox Series X and the standard PS5.
God of War Remaster Rumors and Santa Monica’s Statement (Gaming News)
Speculation about a God of War remaster has been circulating for months, with industry insider Jeff Grubb suggesting an announcement could align with the franchise’s anniversary in March. However, Santa Monica Studio recently clarified that they have no plans to reveal anything at their upcoming panel.
Despite the denial, fans remain hopeful for a future remaster collection. If a reveal does happen, it will likely come through a dedicated PlayStation event rather than a developer panel. Until then, expectations should be tempered.
Far Cry 7 Update: A Shift in Ubisoft’s Plans
Ubisoft has reportedly rebooted a Far Cry project, but not the anticipated Far Cry 7. Instead, an extraction-based multiplayer shooter, previously in development, has been shelved. Developers from this project have been reassigned to Far Cry 7, codenamed Blackbird.
Far Cry 7, originally scheduled for 2025, has been internally delayed to 2026. Insider reports suggest this timeline may still be ambitious. However, early playtests have received positive feedback, with changes in gameplay and movement mechanics offering a fresh take on the series. Given Far Cry 6’s failure to innovate, these updates could breathe new life into the franchise.
The Last of Us Part 3: Will It Happen?
A year ago, Neil Druckmann hinted at a potential third installment in The Last of Us series. However, in a recent Variety interview, he suggested that the series might not continue. Many believe this statement is an attempt to redirect attention toward Naughty Dog’s upcoming new IP, Intergalactic.
Despite this, a third game remains highly likely. The cancellation of The Last of Us multiplayer project left Naughty Dog with assets and concepts that could be repurposed. HBO’s adaptation has significantly increased the franchise’s popularity, making a Part 3 an enticing prospect for Sony. If Intergalactic underperforms, a return to The Last of Us could be the studio’s safest bet.
