Taps into award buzz around Expedition 33 and Hades II as top vote-getters
Indie games dominated 2025, offering unforgettable experiences across every genre. From Hades II’s refined combat to Expedition 33’s emotional storytelling, this year proved that creativity and innovation outshine blockbuster budgets.
In 2025, indie studios stole the spotlight. Titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong, Hades II, Arc Raiders, and Expedition 33 became global sensations, while major AAA releases were surprisingly scarce. Aside from standouts like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Battlefield 6, The Outer Worlds 2, and Ghost of Yotei, few blockbusters made a lasting impact. So, without further delay, here’s our roundup of the best games of 2025
If there’s one game that defined the best all-around experience this year, it’s Hades II. Supergiant Games has taken everything we loved about the first and turned it up a notch—tighter combat, richer lore, and a protagonist who easily ranks among the best ever, Melinoë. The world feels bigger, the gameplay more rewarding, and the dialogue shines from start to finish. Whether you come for the rogue-like challenge or just to bask in the mythic storytelling, Hades II delivers on every front.
The one with the best RPG elements: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Expedition 33 stands tall as one of the finest turn-based RPGs in recent memory. It blends breathtaking music, a powerful story, superb voice acting, and deep gameplay mechanics into an emotional journey that lingers long after the credits roll. This is a tale of wonder, joy, loss, and hope—a rollercoaster that’s as poetic as it is powerful. By the time you reach the finale, expect a few tears and a deep sense of fulfillment. Play it for its stunning soundtrack and brilliant reimagining of turn-based combat.
The one with the best gunplay: Arc Raiders
Choosing this one wasn’t easy. Battlefield 6 reignited its franchise with remarkable consistency and balance, but Arc Raiders edges ahead through sheer innovation. This third-person extraction shooter blends PvE and PvP in thrilling ways, backed by smooth mechanics and steady progression. It’s fast, challenging, and endlessly replayable—the kind of game you dive into for a quick round and end up playing for hours.
The one with all the chaos and destruction: Donkey Kong Bananza
As a Switch 2 launch exclusive, Bananza is pure, delightful madness. Mixing the adventurous spirit of Zelda and Mario with chaotic 3D platforming, it’s an explosive co-op experience where every punch packs purpose. Playing as Donkey—or alongside Pauline—you’ll tear through vibrant worlds, toppling bosses and smashing everything in sight. My motto for this one? “When in doubt—punch.” Cathartic, vivid, and irresistibly fun.
The one to build cities and worlds: Anno 117: Pax Romana
Ubisoft’s latest Anno entry is a love letter to strategy fans. With stellar optimization (even on consoles) and impressively detailed city-building systems, Pax Romana brings the ancient world to life through breathtaking design and thoughtful gameplay. Its balance of political intrigue, resource management, and creative freedom makes it one of the strongest RTS experiences this year. Play it for its masterful world-building and immersive re-creation of Roman civilization.
With these five titles, 2025 delivered something for everyone—from action-packed chaos to deeply emotional storytelling. Still, a few honorable mentions deserve a nod: Ghost of Yotei for its elegant swordplay, AC: Shadows for its refined stealth, Pokémon Legends: Z-A for its refreshing twist on a classic series, and Battlefield 6 for proving the FPS genre still has plenty to give.
As we turn the page to 2026, one thing’s clear—2025 has already given us enough great games to keep our consoles (and hearts) busy for a long time. See you in 2026!
