As we venture into 2025, the tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) landscape is brimming with exciting new titles and editions that have captured my imagination. I’m always eager to try new ones, but as luck would have it, there isn’t always enough time to get to each and every one. Here are the top seven upcoming TTRPGs that I’m definitely going to try finding time for:
1. Legend in the Mist
From Son of Oak, the creators of “City of Mist,” comes “Legend in the Mist,” a narrative-driven game that emphasizes storytelling and character development. The game employs a tag-based system, allowing players to define their characters and actions through descriptive phrases, fostering creativity and immersion. You may not know me personally, but hopefully, you read some of our books, and you know how much I value narratives over mechanics. So it’s no surprise I can’t wait to see how this system facilitates collaborative storytelling and dynamic character arcs.
2. Terry Pratchett’s Discworld RPG
The whimsical and satirical universe of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld is being adapted into a new RPG by Modiphius Entertainment. Set in the bustling city of Ankh-Morpork, the game introduces a unique mechanic where players roll a standard die against the GM’s “Narrativium” die, emphasizing the unpredictable and humorous nature of the Discworld. I have to admit I haven’t read Pratchett’s Discworld in a while, but the world has shaped my childhood, and I’m looking forward to getting back into the world through interactive storytelling and seeing how the game’s mechanics capture the essence of Discworld’s humor and satire.
3. Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere RPG
Brandon Sanderson’s expansive Cosmere universe is being transformed into a TTRPG by Brotherwise Games. The game features unique mechanics and introduces new canonical lore, developed in close collaboration with Sanderson himself. Seeing how the man is a noted D&D nerd (like you thought otherwise), I can’t wait to see his unique perspective on things. As somebody who enjoys his novel, I’m thrilled at the prospect of delving into these richly crafted worlds and experiencing the intricate magic systems firsthand. We know he’s the master of the magic systems.
4. Draw Steel
MCDM Productions, led by Matt Colville, is developing “Draw Steel,” a game that promises dynamic combat and engaging storytelling. While details are still emerging, the focus appears to be on empowering players to run their own adventures, transforming enthusiasts into confident game masters. Given Colville’s reputation for creating accessible and engaging content, I’m optimistic that “Draw Steel” will offer a fresh and exciting experience for both players and GMs.
5. Daggerheart
Critical Role’s Darrington Press is introducing “Daggerheart,” a TTRPG that utilizes a 2d12 system, distinguishing it from traditional d20-based games. Players roll two 12-sided dice—one representing hope and the other fear—to determine outcomes, adding depth and nuance to the gameplay. Critical Role has been the staple and, dare I say, one of the biggest reasons for the growth of TTRPG popularity in the last 10 or so years, so I’m eager to see how this system influences storytelling and character development, offering a fresh take on traditional RPG dynamics.
6. Starfinder (Second Edition)
Paizo’s “Starfinder” is receiving a second edition, aiming for full compatibility with “Pathfinder Second Edition.” This update seeks to streamline gameplay and encourage cross-system play, allowing for greater flexibility and integration between the two systems. I always enjoy a good mixture of science fiction and fantasy and I’m definitely excited to see how this edition enhances the space-faring adventures and integrates with the broader Pathfinder universe.
7. Alien RPG (Evolved Edition)
Free League Publishing is releasing the “Evolved Edition” of the “Alien RPG,” building upon the award-winning original. This edition promises expanded and updated core rules, along with new cinematic scenarios that capture the intense, survival-horror atmosphere of the Alien universe. I’ve been traumatized by the franchise ever since seeing it in the movies as a kid (thanks, Dad), but as I’ve grown older, I learned to appreciate the uniqueness.
These upcoming titles promise to bring fresh adventures and innovative mechanics to our gaming tables, and I’m always up for trying new things. Like, I love D&D, but sometimes, you just gotta mix it up, y’know?
