Here are the top 7 video games we loved in 2025

2025 was a year where video games felt more expressive and willing to take creative risks. From emotionally heavy narratives and experimental art styles to refined sequels and long-awaited franchise evolutions, this year's standout titles proved that the medium continues to grow not just in scale, but in ambition. Whether you were drawn to slow-burn psychological horror, tightly designed action, or expansive role-playing worlds shaped by player choice, 2025 had something that left a lasting mark.

Here are our picks for the Top 7 Video Games of 2025:

1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)

Few games in 2025 matched the emotional impact of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Set in a surreal, painterly world under the shadow of an inevitable curse, the game follows a group of characters embarking on a final expedition against time itself. What begins as a fantasy RPG slowly unfolds into a deeply personal story about mortality, memory and purpose. The turn-based combat system feels modern and rewarding, blending strategic depth with fluid animations that keep battles engaging. Each character is distinct, both mechanically and narratively, making party composition and story progression feel meaningful. Visually, the game stands out with its unique art direction, striking use of colour and haunting soundtrack.

Clair Obscur is the kind of game that trusts its audience: it takes its time, lets moments breathe,  and isn't afraid to be emotionally heavy. That confidence is what made it one of the most talked-about and critically praised titles of the year.

2. Hades II (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Supergiant Games returned with Hades II, a sequel that proves how to expand a beloved formula without losing its identity. This time, players step into a new mythological journey filled with fast-paced combat, evolving abilities and a narrative that unfolds organically with every attempt. The combat is sharper and more varied than before, with new weapons and magical abilities that reward experimentation. Each run feels distinct, thanks to shifting upgrades and dynamic enemy encounters. The writing remains one of the game's strongest points, blending sharp humour with surprisingly emotional character arcs. 

What truly sets Hades II apart is how effortlessly it balances intensity and accessibility. Whether you play for short bursts or marathon sessions, the game always feels rewarding. It's a masterclass in replayability and one of 2025's most addictive experiences.

3. Silent Hill f (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)

Silent Hill f marks a haunting revival of the legendary horror franchise, shifting the setting to 1960s Japan and leaning heavily into psychological terror. Instead of relying on constant jump scares, the game builds dread slowly through atmosphere, unsettling imagery and a present sense of unease.

The environments are disturbingly beautiful, blending everyday locations with nightmarish distortions. The story explores themes of guilt, isolation and social pressure, unfolding through subtle details rather than explicit exposition. Sound design plays a crucial role, with silence often proving more terrifying than noise. This is not a game meant to be rushed. Silent Hill f demands patience and emotional engagement, rewarding players with one of the most immersive horror experiences of the year. It stands as proof that horror games can still be thoughtful, disturbing and deeply impactful on your mind. 

4. Assassin's Creed Shadows (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)

After years of anticipation, Assassin's Creed Shadows finally brings the franchise to feudal Japan, and the wait was worth it. Featuring dual protagonists with contrasting playstyles, the game offers both stealth-focused infiltration and direct combat, giving players freedom in how they approach each mission.

The open world is richly detailed, filled with dynamic weather, lively settlements and historical authenticity. Parkour feels smoother than ever, while combat strikes a satisfying balance between precision and spectacle. More importantly, the narrative feels more focused than recent entries, placing greater emphasis on character motivation and consequence. Shadows feels like a confident evolution of the series, one that honours its roots while refining its modern RPG elements. It's a strong reminder of why Assassin's Creed remains one of gaming's most enduring franchises.

5. The Outer Worlds 2 (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)

The Outer Worlds 2 doubles down on what made the original a cult favourite: sharp satire, meaningful player choice and richly written characters. Set across new star systems, the game offers larger environments, deeper faction politics and a story that constantly reacts to the player's decisions. Dialogue remains a highlight, blending humour with social commentary, while the role-playing systems encourage experimentation. Whether you solve problems through diplomacy, deception, or chaos, the game adapts in noticeable ways, making each playthrough feel personal.

With improved combat, expanded skill trees and more narrative depth, The Outer Worlds 2 stands as one of the strongest RPGs of the year, especially for players who value choice and storytelling over spectacle alone.

6. Ghost of Yōtei (PS5) 

Sucker Punch's Ghost of Yōtei builds on the legacy of Ghost of Tsushima while confidently carving out its own identity. Set against the stark, snow-covered landscapes surrounding Mount Yōtei, the game shifts its focus to a harsher frontier, where survival and honor feel constantly in tension. Combat remains precise and cinematic, but introduces greater emphasis on adaptability; new stances, enemy archetypes and environmental factors make every encounter feel deliberate and dangerous. Exploration is slower and more contemplative, encouraging players to absorb the isolation and beauty of the world rather than rush through it.

What truly elevates Ghost of Yōtei is its tonal maturity. The narrative leans into themes of solitude, legacy and moral ambiguity, telling a more restrained but emotionally resonant story. Small character moments and quiet visual storytelling often speak louder than grand set pieces. The game feels less like a power fantasy and more like a meditation on what it means to endure. It's a striking evolution of the series, one that trades spectacle for atmosphere and leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

7. Donkey Kong Bananza (Switch 2)

Closing out the list is one of 2025's most joyful surprises. Donkey Kong Bananza brings classic platforming energy to the Nintendo Switch 2 with vibrant visuals, inventive level design and the unmistakable charm of the Donkey Kong franchise. Each stage is packed with secrets, creative mechanics and playful challenges that reward exploration. The controls are tight and responsive, making movement feel satisfying whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned platforming fan.

More than anything, Donkey Kong Bananza is pure fun, a reminder that games don't always need to be dark or complex to be memorable. Its cheerful tone and polished design make it a standout family-friendly title in a year filled with heavy hitters.