2025 Gaming Highlights: A Year in Review

As 2025 draws to a close, we're revisiting a cherished tradition: highlighting the best games our team had the pleasure of playing. With thousands of new releases, we can't claim to have played them all, but these are the ones that left a lasting impression. Here's to another exciting year of gaming in 2026. My personal list of favourites is somewhat compromised, as I wishlisted more games than I actually played. However, some titles stood out, such as Ballionnaire and Ball X Pit, which breathed new life into classic mechanics with contemporary twists. The Roottrees Are Dead was another highlight, offering a unique experience of uncovering family history through dialup-era websites. ARC Raiders was a standout, with its exceptional visual, audio, and NPC design, making for a compelling PvE experience. The game's drone enemies were a perfect blend of challenge and satisfaction. Human encounters were also a highlight, with a delicate balance of risk and reward, making each interaction feel fresh and exciting. Ghost of Yōtei was my most anticipated title, and it exceeded expectations. The game's strong female lead, Atsu, and its beautifully crafted world, won me over. The game's ability to balance action and zen-like moments was remarkable, making it a truly captivating experience. Other notable mentions include Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, Donkey Kong Bananza, and The Horror at Highrook, each offering unique experiences that left a lasting impression. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was also a highlight, with its engaging narrative and beautiful world. Blue Prince, a phenomenal puzzle game, was unfortunately overshadowed by Clair Obscur's release, but it's a game that will stay with me for a long time. Its intelligent puzzles and deep storytelling made it a true delight. Every aspect of the game was carefully crafted, making it a must-play experience. Monster Hunter Wilds was another challenging but rewarding experience, with its immersive world and thrilling hunts. Easy Delivery Co. was a surprise hit, with its PS1 aesthetic and surreal psychological horror elements, making for a deeply unsettling experience. As I look back on 2025, it's clear that it was a year filled with incredible games, each offering something unique and captivating.