The 25 most anticipated video games of 2016 – Dishonored 2, Uncharted 4, XCOM 2 and more

Of course, gamers go into every year filled with excitement and anticipation. This is a medium that thrives on slow burn hype, with even tiny indie projects using months of teaser shots and YouTube trailers to garner interest. The good news is, there's usually enough brilliant, innovative and compelling fare to justify that enthusiasm – and 2016 looks to be no exception. Although you could fill a dozen'most anticipated' lists with all the grandiose sequels and blockbusting franchises due out this year, there are also dozens of smaller-scale independent projects, keeping the idiosyncratic and experimental heart of video game culture beating. Here, then, is our pick of the biggest, smallest and strangest titles to look out for in the coming 12 months.