June 2025 has delivered an incredible wave of new games, but two titles are clearly stealing the spotlight: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Persona 5: The Phantom X. Both have been met with critical acclaim, massive player engagement, and strong sales performance. In this post, we’ll break down what makes these two games the hottest releases of the month.
🧬 Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Developer: Kojima Productions
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Genre: Cinematic Adventure / Action
🎥 A Cinematic Masterpiece Returns
Hideo Kojima is back with Death Stranding 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the cult-classic 2019 game. This time, the journey dives deeper into themes of isolation, reconnection, and human resilience—set against a surreal and hauntingly beautiful backdrop.
The story picks up after the events of the original game, with Sam Porter Bridges once again venturing into a fractured world. Featuring returning cast members like Norman Reedus, Lea Seydoux, and Troy Baker, the sequel delivers a visually stunning narrative-driven experience enhanced by the power of the PlayStation 5.
🎮 Gameplay Evolution
Death Stranding 2 keeps its iconic core gameplay—traversing vast terrains, strategic delivery management, and environmental puzzles—but expands it with:
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New traversal tools like hover packs and modular vehicles
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Dynamic terrain shaping based on timefall weather effects
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Co-op delivery missions (asynchronous multiplayer elements continue)
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Musical storytelling that reacts to player decisions and mood
The improved Decima Engine brings lifelike facial animations, hyper-realistic landscapes, and real-time weather effects that directly impact gameplay.
🏆 Critical Acclaim & Awards
Upon release, Death Stranding 2 received:
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Metacritic Score: 92 (as of June 26)
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IGN: 9.5/10 – “A breathtaking, emotional journey. Kojima’s best work to date.”
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Eurogamer: “Essential” – Praised for its originality and philosophical storytelling
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Best Narrative Game – Winner at Summer Game Fest 2025 Awards
The game has sparked worldwide discussion around its themes and gameplay, with many calling it “a modern epic” and “the most artistically ambitious game of the year.”
👥 Persona 5: The Phantom X
Developer: Perfect World Games (under ATLUS supervision)
Publisher: SEGA
Release Date: June 26, 2025 (Global Launch)
Platforms: PC, iOS, Android
Genre: Turn-Based RPG / Live Service
🎭 Persona Reimagined for a New Generation
Following the explosive success of Persona 5, ATLUS has teamed up with Perfect World to bring us The Phantom X—a spinoff that captures the heart of the original while introducing a fresh cast, modern UI, and mobile-first design.
The game follows Wonder (the new protagonist), a rebellious high schooler who discovers their powers in an alternate Tokyo. While the Phantom Thieves’ spirit lives on, the new group of misfits must confront corrupted adults through the ever-mysterious Metaverse.
📱 Gameplay That Blends Classic and Modern
Built as a free-to-play RPG with optional gacha mechanics, Phantom X features:
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Classic turn-based combat with stylish animations
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Social sim mechanics like dating, school life, and bonding
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Metaverse dungeons with randomized layouts and real-time events
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Character customization and weekly live events
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Fully voice-acted dialogues and anime-style cutscenes
Despite being a mobile-first title, the PC version offers full HD visuals, controller support, and cloud syncing between devices.
🏅 Global Praise & Popularity
Just days after launch:
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Top download in over 30 countries on both iOS and Android
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PC version trending #1 on Steam charts for free-to-play RPGs
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Polygon: “A mobile game that feels like a full-fledged Persona title.”
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The Verge: “The best JRPG experience on mobile yet.”
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App Store Editors’ Choice and Google Play Best of June 2025
Its impressive art direction, engaging story arcs, and fair monetization model have earned the game praise from longtime Persona fans and newcomers alike.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re diving into an emotional sci-fi journey with Death Stranding 2 or exploring the heart of modern Tokyo through Persona 5: The Phantom X, June 2025 has delivered something for every type of gamer. One game represents the pinnacle of cinematic storytelling on consoles, while the other redefines what’s possible on mobile and PC RPGs.
Which one are you playing this month? Let us know in the comments!
