A few years back, I casually mentioned in the comments section of an article I had written on video game adaptations of Stephen King novels that my ideal game would be a Don’t Nod adaptation of “It.” Now, with the announcement of “Lost Records: Bloom & Rage”—a game by Don’t Nod set to release in early 2025—I’ve been reflecting on that thought. This game seems to borrow heavily from King’s legendary 1986 novel about an alien clown-spider and the group of kids fated to confront it.
I must admit, I don’t believe for a moment that anyone at Don’t Nod has been scouring gaming site comments for inspiration. It’s more about my satisfaction in seeing my instinct for marketable, story-driven adventure games validated, a genre I’m truly passionate about. Considering it’s been a few years since the 2017–19 “It” movie adaptations hit the big screen, it seems like the perfect timing for spiritual successors inspired by those films to start emerging.
“Lost Records: Bloom & Rage” weaves the tale of four friends caught between two timelines: the tumultuous 1990s of their youth when they were outcast teens, and a present-day reunion, decades later, as they approach middle age. The 27-year time jump either nods directly to “It” or is an intriguingly precise fluke.
True to form, the friends’ youthful adventures were interrupted by something bizarre they stumbled upon in the woods near home. Whatever this strange occurrence is, it remains shrouded in secrecy in the game’s trailers and demos. Discovered at the bottom of a crater, this object emits an otherworldly purple glow. I’ll let you connect the dots.
There’s little more to say about “Lost Records” at the moment, and that’s probably intentional—part of a marketing tactic shrouded in mystery and reserved on reveals. Despite my early insights into the premise, I’m ready to be surprised when the game rolls out in two installments in February and March.
While “Lost Records” seems tailored to my interests, it’s just one of several fascinating releases lined up for the start of next year. Though the calendar isn’t overflowing with blockbuster triple-A titles yet, the first few months of 2025 promise a treasure trove of mid-sized releases that stand out without quite fitting the indie label.
I’m particularly excited for “Split Fiction,” the latest venture from Hazelight and EA Originals. It features two authors—one of sci-fi, the other of fantasy—each trapped within AI-generated worlds based on their works. Co-op enthusiasts with a favorite gaming partner will be thrilled by Hazelight’s commitment to couch co-op, and that rare mix of genre-blending promises some fresh surprises.
Looking at other upcoming titles, there’s “Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2” in February, the eagerly awaited sequel that reminds us medieval knight life was anything but glamorous. March will bring “Two Point Museum,” a comedic take on city management, and April is set for “The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy,” a turn-based tactics game from the minds behind “Danganronpa” and “Zero Escape.” All in all, there’s a delightful array of options on the horizon.
Some years are dominated by massive triple-A games, while others highlight indie gems. If 2025 leans towards offering a plethora of intriguing double-A games that cater to diverse interests, we’ll have plenty to celebrate.
