What to Play This December: PS5 & Xbox Games for the Holidays

December is one of the most exciting months for gaming not only because it brings major releases, but because it arrives at the perfect time for holiday downtime, cosy evenings, and gift giving.  

If you’ve been searching for best PS5 games December, top Xbox games December, or games for Christmas, this guide collects everything you need in one place. 

From cinematic adventures to new RPGs, multiplayer hits, and family-friendly Christmas games ideas, we’ve rounded up the holiday’s must-play titles. 

And for those still shopping for the perfect tech gift, this guide also highlights the latest gaming consoles, Sony PlayStation systems, wireless controllers for Xbox, PlayStation controllers, and other console hardware for gamers that enhance every session. 

Let’s jump into what December has in store. 

PS5 vs Xbox Series X|S: Which Console Wins This Holiday? 

Before diving into the game list, it helps to understand what each console offers this December. 

PlayStation 5 (PS5)  

PS5 continues to shine in cinematic single-player experiences, flourishing with incredibly detailed visuals, fast loading, and unique DualSense controller immersion. December’s lineup is especially exciting for players who enjoy: 

• Story-rich adventures 
• High-fidelity performance 
• Exclusive PS5 enhancements 
• VR experiences using PlayStation VR 

It remains one of the strongest platforms for narrative-driven games and creative storytelling; ideal for holiday gaming marathons. 

Xbox Series X|S  

Xbox leans into variety and value, especially for family holiday sessions and couch co-op with siblings, friends, or guests. With Xbox Game Pass, players can jump into a rotating catalogue of new releases at no extra cost; perfect for discovering new favourites this Christmas. 

Xbox consoles excel at: 

• Multiplatform performance 
• Smooth 4K gaming 
• Backwards compatibility 
• Online and offline co-op 
• A great selection of gaming extras for Xbox 

Both consoles offer unique advantages, and December brings something for everyone. 

PS5 Highlights – What to Play on PlayStation 5 This December? 

1- Let It Die: Inferno – December 3 (PS5) 

Let It Die: Inferno expands the cult-classic chaos of the original series with fast-paced, roguelike combat and an over-the-top post-apocalyptic aesthetic. On PS5, the game takes advantage of 3D audio and adaptive triggers to intensify weapon clashes, explosions, and frantic dodges.  

Every run throws you into unpredictable arenas, bizarre enemies, and over-the-top boss fights. It’s challenging, stylish, and deliberately intense perfect for hardcore gamers who want something wildly different to dig into over the holidays. 

2- Blood: Refreshed Supply – December 4 (PS5) 

A complete remake of the 90s FPS classic, Blood: Refreshed Supply mixes nostalgia with modern upgrades. The PS5 version brings smoother combat, enhanced lighting, reworked textures, and an optional modernised control scheme that feels more fluid on DualSense. Despite its retro roots, this remake offers frenetic run-and-gun action, hidden secrets, and fast-paced enemy encounters. It’s a great holiday treat for long-time shooter fans. 

3- Elden Ring: Nightreign DLC – December 4 (PS5) 

One of the biggest releases of December, Elden Ring: Nightreign takes players into a darker, more mysterious region of the Lands Between. Expect punishing boss fights, interconnected new zones, fresh weapons, and a deeper expansion of the Night Cycle lore. 

On PS5, loading times are almost instant, and combat feels incredibly responsive. This DLC is perfect for players who enjoy high-level challenges, exploration, and deeply rewarding victories; making it a must-play holiday event for RPG lovers. 

4- Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 – December 8 (PS5) 

A surprise PS5 release this year, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 delivers a massive leap in realism with photorealistic landscapes, detailed aircraft, dynamic weather, and worldwide exploration. With the DualSense controller, you’ll feel subtle vibrations that simulate turbulence, landing gear movement, engine thrust, and weather conditions. It’s an ideal game for players who want a relaxing holiday escape, aviation fans craving authenticity, or anyone looking to explore real-world destinations from the comfort of the living room. 

5- Code Violet – December 12 (PS5) 

A brand-new PlayStation exclusive, Code Violet blends detective mystery with supernatural thriller elements. Players explore a neon-soaked city filled with secrets, cryptic puzzles, and branching narrative paths shaped by your decisions. PS5’s 3D audio and haptics heighten every clue discovery, tense encounter, and environmental detail. It’s a must-play for fans of narrative adventures, investigative gameplay, and immersive storytelling making it a perfect December pick for quiet holiday evenings. 

Xbox Highlights; Top Games Releasing on Xbox Series X|S This December 

1- Routine – December 4 (XSX/XBO) 

Routine is a deeply atmospheric survival-horror game set on an abandoned lunar base, blending eerie silence, vintage sci-fi design, and oppressive tension. On Xbox Series X, the game benefits heavily from enhanced lighting, shadows, and fast rendering; making every corridor feel unsettlingly real. 

You’ll explore dark research labs, malfunctioning robotics, and cryptic logs that hint at what went wrong on the base. The immersive audio design takes full advantage of Xbox’s spatial sound, surrounding you with distant footsteps, mechanical hums, and environmental creaks.  

2- MARVEL Cosmic Invasion – December 1 (XSX) 

MARVEL Cosmic Invasion is one of December’s biggest cross-platform releases; a galaxy-spanning action-adventure featuring a roster of iconic heroes. On Xbox Series X, the game shines with crisp 4K visuals, vibrant cosmic environments, and smooth combat animations. You’ll travel across alien planets, battle interdimensional threats, and switch between heroes with unique abilities. Holiday-themed missions and co-op modes make it a perfect game to enjoy with friends or family during festive gatherings. If you enjoy games with fast action, colourful worlds, and superhero-scale spectacle, this is one of the season’s standout titles. 

3- Sleep Awake – December 2 (XSX) 

The Xbox Series X version of Sleep Awake offers fast load times, sharp rendering, and performance stability that enhances its dream-based psychological storyline. This sci-fi thriller takes players through shifting realities, fragmented memories, and haunting dream sequences that challenge your perception of what’s real.  

The Xbox version’s HDR lighting amplifies the surreal environments, making each scene feel visually striking. For players who love story-rich, mysterious games with layers of emotional depth and intrigue, Sleep Awake is one of December’s most compelling releases especially if you're planning an immersive single-player experience for the holidays. 

Cross-Platform Must-Plays (PS5 + Xbox)   

Cross-platform games are perfect for households where players use different consoles, or for friends who want to play together across PS5 and Xbox during the holidays. December 2025 brings some of the strongest multi-platform releases of the year spanning action, RPG, retro shooters, and cinematic adventures. Here’s a deeper look at the must-plays coming to both systems. 

1- Octopath Traveler 0 – December 4 

Octopath Traveler 0 is a beautifully crafted JRPG that continues the beloved HD-2D visual style blending pixel art with modern lighting and depth for a timeless aesthetic. Featuring new characters, intertwined storylines, and a refined strategic combat system, this installment is ideal for RPG fans who want a deep, narrative-rich experience during the festive season.  

On both Xbox and PS5, the visuals shine brightly in 4K and the orchestrated soundtrack enhances the emotional tone of each chapter. Perfect for players who enjoy immersive stories, thoughtful turn-based battles, and charming worldbuilding. 

2- Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut – December 8 

The Director’s Cut of Yakuza 0 is a must-play for anyone who loves dramatic storytelling, thrilling brawler combat, and heartfelt character arcs. Enhancements include crisp 4K visuals, improved animations, better lighting, and modernised gameplay polish. You’ll explore neon-soaked Tokyo and Osaka in the 1980s, juggling intense crime drama with hilarious mini-games and side missions; a balance the series is famous for. Both PS5 and Xbox deliver excellent performance, making this edition the definitive way to experience one of the franchise’s strongest entries during the holiday season. 

What Type of Game Should You Play This Christmas? 

To make picking easier, here’s a breakdown based on your play style:

Type	Best Games	Ideal For
Solo Story Adventures	Sleep Awake, Code Violet, Yakuza 0	Story lovers & cinematic fans
Co-Op & Multiplayer	MARVEL Cosmic Invasion, Blood Refreshed, Elden Ring DLC	Friends, siblings, online groups
Sports & Racing	(Game Pass classics), Microsoft Flight Simulator	Competitive & casual players
Fantasy & RPG	Elden Ring DLC, Octopath Traveler 0	Immersion seekers & RPG lovers
Action & Challenge	Let It Die Inferno, Routine	Hardcore gamers

Graphics, Sound & Next-Gen Features 

On PS5 

The PS5 delivers a highly immersive experience thanks to its stunning 4K graphics, smooth gameplay, and realistic lighting effects. Games look sharper and more detailed, and the DualSense controller adds a new level of interaction with vibrations and trigger resistance that make actions like shooting, driving, or walking on different surfaces feel more real. The PS5’s 3D audio also helps players hear sounds from all directions, making games more atmospheric and engaging. With fast loading and optional support for PlayStation VR, the PS5 creates a cinematic, next-gen experience that feels premium and responsive. 

On Xbox Series X|S 

Xbox Series X|S focuses on delivering fast, powerful, and seamless gameplay. Players can enjoy crisp 4K visuals, smooth frame rates up to 120fps, and bright HDR colours that make every scene look vibrant. The console loads games extremely quickly, and features like Quick Resume let you jump between multiple games without waiting. Smart Delivery ensures each game automatically runs the best version for your console, so you always get top performance. Xbox also upgrades many older titles with better graphics and smoother movement, giving players great value and long-term enjoyment. 

More Kid-Friendly & Family Christmas Games 

If you're looking for gentle, beginner-friendly games to enjoy with younger players this holiday season, December brings a few fantastic options that are perfect for family gaming nights. Dragon Quest 1 & 2 (Rated E10+) is a wonderful way to introduce kids to classic RPG adventures, offering bright visuals, simple turn-based battles, and charming storytelling that parents can enjoy alongside their children.

For something calmer and more relaxing, Winter Burrow (Rated E10+) delivers a cosy winter adventure where players explore snowy woods, decorate their own warm little home, and complete lighthearted quests at their own pace; making it a great choice for winding down during the festive season. 

And if your family wants something a bit more adventurous but still child-friendly, Monster Hunter Stories Collection (Rated E10+) is a fantastic beginner RPG that lets kids raise friendly creatures, explore colourful worlds, and enjoy turn-based battles that are exciting without being overwhelming. Each of these games is designed to be fun, easy to understand, and perfectly suited for a family-friendly Christmas gaming experience. 

Conclusion 

This December is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months of the year for gamers, with both PS5 and Xbox delivering unforgettable adventures, family-friendly favourites, and blockbuster releases perfect for the holidays. Whether you’re diving into epic RPGs like Elden Ring: Nightreign, exploring cosy winter worlds with younger players, or unwrapping a brand-new console on Christmas morning, there’s truly something for everyone. 

The PlayStation 5 systems continue to shine with immersive storytelling, cinematic exclusives, and next-level features like DualSense haptics and virtual reality for PS5, while Xbox stands out with its huge variety of titles, powerful performance, and Game Pass value making it easy to discover new games throughout the festive season. No matter which platform you choose, these December releases offer the perfect mix of solo adventures, co-op fun, and family experiences to enjoy during the holidays. 

And if you're looking to complete your setup with the right accessories, controllers, or even a new console, you’ll find everything you need at Box.co.uk from xbox gaming consoles and Sony gaming PlayStation hardware to PlayStation console accessories, wireless controllers for Xbox, and more. 

Play smarter, enjoy more, and make this Christmas one to remember with the perfect games and gear from Box.co.uk. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are there new Xbox exclusives this holiday? 

Yes, Xbox players can look forward to exclusives like Routine, as well as enhanced versions of titles such as MARVEL Cosmic Invasion and Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, which run exceptionally well on Xbox Series X|S hardware. 

Can I gift a digital game on Xbox or PS5? 

Yes! Both platforms allow you to purchase and send digital game codes or gift cards. This is especially useful if you're shopping last-minute or buying for someone who plays on a different console. 

Which console has better holiday deals? 

Both platforms offer strong deals depending on what you're looking for. Xbox often includes great value bundles with Game Pass, while PS5 commonly features discounts on accessories and select games. The "better" option depends on whether you prefer variety and multiplayer (Xbox) or exclusives and cinematic experiences (PS5). 

What is the next big game in 2025? 

Among the biggest anticipated releases are Metroid Prime 4 (Switch/NS2), Octopath Traveler 0, and major updates for ongoing franchises. For PlayStation and Xbox specifically, Sleep Awake and the Nightreign DLC have already positioned themselves as standout titles leading into the new year. 

Is GTA 5 available on PS5? 

Yes, Grand Theft Auto V is available on PS5 as an Enhanced Edition, featuring improved graphics, faster loading, and better performance. It remains one of the most popular open-world titles across all platforms.