2025 is barely halfway through, yet it’s already turning out to be one of the most exciting years in gaming in recent memory. Although there have been a few setbacks with some of the year’s most anticipated titles, like Grand Theft Auto VI being postponed to 2026 and Dune: Awakening delayed to June 10, several hyped releases have lived up to expectations. Some smaller releases have also managed to punch far above their weight.

It has been a year filled with variety and quality, with a lineup of games that has kept players busy across genres and platforms. From narrative depth, co-op chaos, to genre-defining mechanics, this list highlights the ten titles that have already defined gaming so far in 2025.

‘Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’ (Sandfall Interactive)

Barely three months after release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is already being discussed as arguably the best title of the year. Sandfall Interactive’s debut game is an instant classic that has drawn acclaim from critics and gamers alike for its unbelievably human storytelling, exploring themes like grief, love, and purpose. Over a 30-hour journey, players follow the volunteers of Expedition 33 as they attempt to destroy the Paintress, a mystical figure behind the annual “Gommage” that erases people from existence in Clair Obscur’s world.

The role-playing game (RPG) sold 500,000 units within the first 24 hours of release on April 24 and surpassed 1 million sales within three days. French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated the game’s publisher for its creative vision and contribution to French innovation in entertainment.

A portion of the game’s success also lies in its music. The soundtrack topped Billboard’s Classical Music and Classical Crossover charts in May and was nominated for the 2025 World Soundtrack Awards. The game is available on PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S.

‘Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2’ (Warhorse Studios)

Seven years after the original instalment, Warhorse Studios returned with a strong sequel in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, which already ranks as one of the year’s best.

Set in 15th-century Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), the game offers historically accurate locations, characters, and events that make its medieval world both engaging and educational. The story continues with a refined combat system and expanded narrative options that reflect player choice more deeply than before.

Before its release on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series consoles on February 4, the game had already generated buzz by winning Best PC Game at Gamescom 2024.

‘Death Stranding 2: On The Beach’ (Kojima Productions)

Though only a month into release, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach has already made a strong case as one of the standout titles of 2025. It has received widespread critical acclaim, which should probably not be surprising considering the impact of its 2017 prequel and the resulting anticipation. The action-adventure game was nominated for Most Wanted Game at the 2023 Golden Joystick Awards and for Most Anticipated Game at The Game Awards in 2024.

Kojima Productions has built upon the foundation of the first game with key improvements. Returning characters are joined by a new cast, enhancing the emotional storytelling and complex worldbuilding. The game deepens the post-apocalyptic setting, expanding on its lore and themes of isolation and connection. Death Stranding 2 is currently available exclusively on PlayStation 5.

‘The Alters’ (11 bit studios)

Released on June 13, The Alters is an extraordinary survival game that dives into themes of miscommunication, moral dilemmas, and human fallibility. Players take on the role of Jan Dolski, a lone astronaut stranded on a strange planet. With no clear path home, Jan must survive by creating alternate versions of himself “Alters”, each shaped by different life decisions. The result is an engaging narrative exploration of identity, regret, and the complexities of human nature.

The game has received largely positive reviews, thanks to its emotional depth, writing quality, and gameplay innovation. It is available on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.

‘Mario Kart World’ (Nintendo)

Mario Kart World is the latest instalment in a series that has redefined kart racing games for decades. Released on June 5, the title is the first major release for the new Nintendo Switch 2 console.

The game introduces worldwide tracks and mission-based challenges that encourage exploration and competition. It also features a revamped multiplayer system that supports up to 24 racers, doubling the capacity of previous titles and making it one of the most chaotic and fun multiplayer experiences of the year.

‘Split Fiction’ (Hazelight Studios)

Hazelight Studios, known for its innovative co-op games, has pushed creative boundaries again with Split Fiction.

The story follows two writers trapped inside a machine stealing their creative ideas. To escape, players must traverse various imaginative worlds, each built from the characters’ unfinished stories. Every level offers distinct mechanics and visuals, making it one of the most creatively ambitious games of 2025.

Split Fiction was released on PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S on March 6, and later arrived on the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5.

‘Blue Prince’ (Monkey Moon)

Released in May 2025, Blue Prince is a gothic puzzle adventure that blends roguelike structure with a haunting narrative. Players take on the role of a caretaker exploring a mysterious, ever-expanding mansion, uncovering secrets and solving environmental puzzles.

The game has received praise for its unique visual style, eerie soundtrack, and emotionally layered storytelling. It is available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

‘Avowed’ (Obsidian Entertainment)

Avowed arrived in March and has quickly cemented itself as one of the year’s top fantasy RPGs. Set in the Pillars of Eternity universe, the game features deep lore, dynamic combat, and meaningful narrative choices that reflect Obsidian’s signature style.

With colourful environments, an engaging magic system, and strong character development, Avowed delivers on its promise of an expansive fantasy world. It is available on PC and Xbox Series X/S.

‘Deltarune’ (Toby Fox)

Toby Fox continues to charm fans with Deltarune, released in February. While still not fully released like other games on this list, its cultural and emotional impact is undeniable.

The already released chapters (four) build upon the foundations of Undertale, introducing new characters, twists, and battle mechanics. With its witty writing, touching moments, and free availability on PC and Nintendo Switch, Chapter 3 proves that simplicity and heart can still dominate the conversation in modern gaming.

‘Skin Deep’ (Blendo Games)

Skin Deep is a quirky first-person immersive simulation that blends intense action with absurd humour in a way that is distinctly Blendo Games. Players take on the role of a private security agent who must fend off space pirates while managing basic human needs like sneezing, hygiene, and injuries, all aboard a zero-gravity spaceship.

Released in April 2025, the game has drawn comparisons to classics like Deus Ex and System Shock, while remaining unique through its minimal UI, slapstick physics, and creative freedom. Players are encouraged to approach situations in wildly different ways, making for a refreshingly unpredictable gameplay loop.

Skin Deep is available on PC.

‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ (Ubisoft Quebec)

Ubisoft’s long-awaited foray into feudal Japan arrived in June with Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and it has lived up to the immense anticipation. The game features dual protagonists — a stealth-focused shinobi and a combat-heavy samurai — allowing players to experience the contrasting philosophies and playstyles of ancient Japan.

Set during the late Sengoku period, Shadows, the 14th major instalment of the Assassin Creed series, introduces a dynamic world with real-time seasons, shifting weather systems, and a focus on verticality and traversal. The game also improves on the series’ RPG mechanics, offering deeper customisation and consequence-driven choices.

With its stunning visuals, immersive storytelling, and fresh take on historical Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands as one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise to date. It is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.