Top 10 games from Future Games Show 2025: game dev trends and big announcements

At the beginning of June 2025, the long-awaited release of MindsEye took place, a project that attracted attention long before its release due to the involvement of Leslie Benzies, a former producer of GTA. The novelty is positioned as a large-scale action-adventure with elements of science fiction, developed by the studio Build A Rocket Boy.

The game’s release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S was perceived as a significant event. However, the initial reviews turned out to be mixed – some players expressed serious concerns about the quality of execution.

### Release of MindsEye: Ambitious World from the Creator of GTA

The project itself initially sparked interest due to its connections with Rockstar Games and the legacy of the Grand Theft Auto series. The action game MindsEye was announced as part of the Everywhere metaverse, but upon launch, it received its own distinct positioning – a separate narrative module focusing on a single-player campaign and cinematic experience.

In the game, players take on the role of a mercenary caught in the whirlwind of corporate conspiracies and biotechnological terror. MindsEye actively utilizes mechanics such as perspective shifting, vehicular sections, close combat, and shootouts. All accompanied by dramatic storytelling and an attempt to build a cyberpunk-inspired world.

### Significance for Build A Rocket Boy

The release of MindsEye was not just the launch of a new project but a crucial moment for the entire Build A Rocket Boy team. This is the studio’s first full-fledged independent development under the leadership of Leslie Benzies – a figure who had a significant impact on the industry during the GTA V era.

The launch was a challenge: to prove that the team is capable of offering the audience something more than just a nostalgic brand. Against the backdrop of expectations and marketing statements, the release took on a strategic character – it had to show what the new studio is capable of without relying on old franchises. The level of buzz confirms high interest, but the initial reactions demonstrated that ideas alone are not enough – excellence in execution is required.

### Technical Features and Platforms

The release took place simultaneously on all target systems. On PC, the game showcases support for ray tracing, DLSS 3.5, and scalable graphics settings. On the new generation consoles, it consistently maintains 60 frames per second in performance mode and 4K resolution in quality mode.

Localization is presented in an expanded version – MindsEye is available in Russian, including full voiceover and subtitles. This fact was positively received by the audience in the CIS countries, where the game received marketing support.

### Key Mechanics and Features

The fantastic action game MindsEye is built on a combination of narrative tension and diverse gameplay scenarios. Among the main components are missions with chases, combat encounters, exploration of futuristic locations, and interactive dialogues. The world’s architecture resembles a hybrid between linear levels and open spaces with optional tasks. Key features as stated by the developers:

– Mechanic of shifting between realities and digital spaces;
– Cinematic shootouts with cover and special effects;
– Interactive inserts with moral choice reactions;
– Open areas with the ability to move around in vehicles;
– Weapon and implant upgrade system;
– Character appearance customization.

The combination of mechanics demonstrates an attempt to merge RPG ideas, action gameplay, and science fiction in one project. However, the release of MindsEye elicited different reactions from players and the press.

### Visual Style and Artistic Concept

From a visual standpoint, the game MindsEye is executed in the style of post-neon futurism. Urban areas, laboratories, wastelands, and in-game cyberspaces are designed with an emphasis on lighting effects and contrast. The camera work in cutscenes demonstrates a strive for a cinematic approach, largely inherited from the GTA series.

The physical animation at the start does not always demonstrate stable performance, but the surrounding detail and vehicle design turned out expressive. The in-game interface, designed as a tactical holographic assistant, deserves special attention.

### Comparison with Grand Theft Auto and Positioning

After the release of MindsEye, comparisons with GTA became inevitable. However, the developers themselves insisted on a different concept. While Grand Theft Auto revolves around an open world, criminal satire, and a wide gameplay sandbox, MindsEye focuses on the story, cutscenes, linear missions, and atmospheric setting.

The level design and storytelling approach are closer to action films than traditional open-world games. Nevertheless, visual and design decisions familiar from GTA make their presence known – especially in the transport animation style, city street layouts, and scene tempo.

### MindsEye Pricing: Pricing Policy

At launch, MindsEye is accompanied by the standard cost for AAA projects. Prices vary depending on the region and platform. Current prices are as follows: PC: starting from $49.99 / 3499 rubles, PlayStation 5: starting from 5499 rubles, Xbox Series X/S: starting from 5499 rubles.

There is also a digital deluxe edition available with bonus materials, additional clothing, and a soundtrack. Players can purchase it for $69.99 / 4999 rubles.

### Player Reviews: Ambitions Did Not Meet Expectations

Immediately after the release of MindsEye, the first reviews and user reviews began to appear online. On major platforms like Metacritic and OpenCritic, scores range from 5.5 to 6.8. Players praise the visual style, music, and the idea, but sharply criticize the performance, rough mechanics, and weak physics.

The main reasons for negative reviews are:

– Unstable PC optimization and FPS drops even on powerful setups;
– Artificial intelligence of enemies demonstrating primitive behavior;
– Numerous bugs in the story campaign;
– Lack of a well-developed melee combat system;
– Overly prolonged cutscenes not always logically connected to gameplay;
– Issues with the interface when using Russian voiceover.

Positive reviews focus on the artistic direction, ambitious concept, and the idea of building a multi-layered world. Users acknowledge that MindsEye has potential but needs refinement.

### Release of MindsEye: Main Points

The release of MindsEye turned out to be both a bright and problematic start for Build A Rocket Boy. Against the backdrop of loud statements and the involvement of a former GTA producer, the game failed to fully meet the audience’s expectations.

Nevertheless, the underlying concept, original style, and multimedia storytelling approach allow considering the project as potentially evolving. Addressing technical shortcomings and releasing patches will determine whether MindsEye can find its place in the realm of sci-fi action games.

The modern market of interactive entertainment offers a huge variety of dynamic projects where every second matters. The best action games on PC are not just about shooting and chasing, but highly organized mechanics, stylistic expressiveness, well-developed worlds, and rich gameplay.

This genre remains the flagship of PC gaming, combining a gripping storyline, mechanical engagement, and artistic realization. Below is a review of projects that rightfully belong to the top action games on PC based on player reviews and professional publications.

Control — telekinesis, weapons, and a living office

Developed by Remedy, Control is one of the brightest representatives of adventure games, combining action, puzzles, and elements of horror. The main character, Jesse, arrives at the Federal Bureau of Control, where reality is disrupted by anomalies, and the AI behaves unpredictably. Using unconventional weapons, she battles a mysterious enemy, gradually uncovering the essence of what is happening.

An important feature is the architecture of the building, which lives its own life. Thanks to its unique storyline, style, and realistic graphics, Control is included in the ranking of PC action games where the main focus is on atmosphere and unconventional world perception.

System Shock (remake) — a cult comeback

One of the most anticipated remakes in recent years. The project takes the player back to a space station controlled by the maniacal AI SHODAN. The combination of survival horror mechanics, tactical battles, and exploration of hostile environments makes the game particularly intense.

Among the best action games, System Shock has secured strong positions on PC by preserving the classic formula and adapting it to modern standards. The visual design, level of complexity, and tactical approach to gameplay set the game apart even among competitors in the sci-fi genre.

Death’s Door — stylish dynamics and philosophy

A project by Acid Nerve that combines Souls-like gameplay with minimalist visuals. The player controls a crow collecting souls in a kind of afterlife bureaucratic world. Top-down camera view, fast reactions, evasions, and precise damage are the main components of the combat system.

Despite its minimalism, the project impresses with depth and quality of execution, offering rich levels and truly well-thought-out hero abilities.

Torn Away — a tragic drama in wartime settings

Torn Away stands out for its unusual combination of platformer mechanics, quest elements, and emotional narrative. The story of a girl torn from a peaceful life unfolds in the backdrop of World War II. The project explores the themes of childhood and survival in conditions of total catastrophe.

Hitman 3 — silent style and precise strikes

Agent 47 returns in the final part of the new trilogy by IO Interactive. Each playthrough is a unique scenario where precision, planning, and freedom of action create a unique experience. Massive locations, weapon variety, the ability to manipulate the environment, and apply clever tricks make the project an outstanding representative of tactical action.

In the list of the best action games, Hitman occupies a special niche on PC — not for its speed, but thanks to its intellectual component and cinematic execution.

The Forgotten City — a time loop and choice

The project started as a mod for Skyrim but grew into a standalone game. The hero finds himself in a Roman city where any crime leads to the death of all residents. Through repeating time loops and dialogues with the inhabitants, the player must uncover the mystery and find a way to avoid the deaths. There is no furious shooting here, but interactivity, philosophy, and a systemic approach create a unique gameplay experience.

The best action games on PC are not always based on shooting — The Forgotten City shows that tension can arise through choices, morality, and dialogues.

Owlboy — pixel precision and flight

An indie platformer with unique gameplay where the player controls the owl Otus. He can soar in the air, carry companions, use their abilities to overcome levels, and fight enemies. The graphics are done in a pixel art style with outstanding animation and a deep color palette. Despite its visual simplicity, the project offers rich mechanics and an emotional story.

Neva — a future for sensitive hearts

Neva is a new project from the creators of Gris, done in the style of an animated masterpiece. The main heroine travels through a dying world accompanied by a mystical creature. The gameplay combines elements of action, puzzles, and platforming. Emotional delivery, strong visual concept, and original levels form a gaming canvas where style is more important than noise.

Among the selection of the best action games, Neva occupies a position as an art-oriented project on PC, creating an impression through meaning rather than mechanical aggression.

Indiana Jones — classic in a modern interpretation

An announced project from MachineGames studio that is an adventure action game in the spirit of the iconic franchise. Players will search for artifacts, decipher messages, and fight enemies in an old-school manner. Expect a rich storyline, varied locations, and a recognizable style. The game is expected to enter the top action games on PC, targeting those who appreciate cinematic qualities and the charisma of the main character.

Best action games on PC: interesting mechanics

Some gameplay decisions define the quality of a project. Below is a list of key mechanics that make action games successful:

• reactive combat system with a focus on timing;
• variety of abilities and weapons;
• varied ways to complete levels;
• presence of intelligent AI opponents;
• connection of storyline and gameplay through choices and consequences.

These elements form the basis of captivating action games, providing not only visual appeal but also deep gameplay engagement.

Conclusion

Modern best action games cover a wide range of styles on PC — from stylized indie graphics to high-budget remakes with photorealistic presentation. The distinctive features include intense gameplay, well-developed abilities, original worlds, and multi-layered storylines. Action has long surpassed shooters: it has become an expressive form, combining mechanics, art, and interactive dramaturgy!