As we near the end of a remarkable year in gaming, 2025 has delivered a diverse array of titles catering to all tastes. Enthusiasts of first-person shooters found excitement in Battlefield 6 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, while Pokémon aficionados savored Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The RPG genre flourished with releases like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and Monster Hunter Wilds.
Personally, I delved into over 35 games this year. From recurring favorites like Valorant, Overwatch 2, and Destiny 2 to newly discovered gems that quickly earned a place in my all-time favorites, the gaming landscape was rich and varied.
Gaming preferences being highly subjective, the choice for the top game of 2025 may vary. Yet, if I were to curate an awards list, six standout games would make the cut.
Here are my picks for the best games of 2025, ranked from bottom to top.
Starting at the sixth spot is “Death Stranding,” a series that has sparked mixed reactions. While some dismiss it as a “walking simulator,” I found the first installment captivating. The sequel, released in June, improved on several aspects, including controls, combat mechanics, and traversal options. However, the predictability of the storyline relegated it to the sixth position on my list.
On a different note, “Little Witch in the Woods” stands out as a unique addition. Unrecognized at major awards, this delightful life-simulation game provided a cozy escape during the autumn months. As a fan of soothing gameplay experiences, this title, alongside others like Strange Antiquities and Tales of the Shire, offered a refreshing change of pace.
Notably, “Split Fiction,” developed by the creators of the award-winning “It Takes Two,” impressed with its cooperative gameplay set in immersive storytelling worlds. Despite causing a few disagreements during multiplayer sessions, the game’s puzzle-solving challenges were rewarding, making it a noteworthy experience.
“Dispatch,” a blend of an animated TV show and a video game, showcased an engaging narrative with strategic resource management elements. The player’s choices significantly influenced the gameplay, adding depth to the storytelling experience.
Claiming the second spot is “Silent Hill f,” a title that masterfully balanced eerie atmospheres with a compelling narrative. The game’s nod to the original Silent Hill series delighted fans, offering a captivating journey through a fog-filled town teeming with monstrous adversaries.
Finally, my top pick for 2025 is “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,” a game that resonated deeply with RPG enthusiasts. With turn-based battles reminiscent of classic RPGs like Final Fantasy, it delivered a gripping storyline, challenging gameplay, and a mesmerizing soundtrack that evoked powerful emotions.
As we anticipate the gaming landscape of 2026, titles like the Fable reboot, Resident Evil Requiem, and Grand Theft Auto VI promise to keep players eagerly engaged.