We’re halfway through the year, and so far, 2025 has delivered a wide variety of standout games across genres. From cinematic action-adventures and narrative-driven RPGs to indie puzzle games and monster-hunting epics, this year’s releases already rank among the most impressive in recent memory.
Blue Prince Leads the Indie Charge
One of the year’s most praised indie titles is Blue Prince, a stylish puzzle roguelike that combines architecture and time-based strategy. Each playthrough lets players build and explore an ever-changing mansion, solving puzzles that alter the layout of future runs. With its unique mechanics and eerie storytelling, it has earned rave reviews and a loyal following.
Clair Obscur Stuns with Style and Emotion
In the RPG space, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has made a major impact. This turn-based adventure features stunning visuals, a mysterious world, and emotionally driven characters. Its blend of painterly aesthetics and deep combat systems has earned it some of the highest ratings of the year, with many calling it a potential Game of the Year contender.
Split Fiction Reinvents Cooperative Storytelling
Multiplayer fans have been drawn to Split Fiction, a narrative-driven co-op experience where players take on parallel roles in a dual storyline. Praised for its innovative structure and strong performances, it’s become a standout for gamers who enjoy story-focused gameplay with a friend.
Monster Hunter Wilds Grows Bigger and Bolder
Monster Hunter Wilds continues the evolution of Capcom’s hit series, adding massive new environments, larger-than-life monsters, and seamless cross-platform multiplayer. The game refines the formula while introducing enough new mechanics to keep even longtime fans engaged.
Doom Heads to the Dark Ages
Doom: The Dark Ages takes the franchise in a brutal new direction, placing the Slayer in a medieval-inspired setting. With gritty melee combat, mounted weapons, and thunderous music, it delivers fast-paced carnage in a bold new format. It’s a fresh but faithful twist on the iconic series.
Assassin’s Creed Finds New Life in Feudal Japan
Assassin’s Creed Shadows has also grabbed attention with its dual-protagonist system and breathtaking recreation of feudal Japan. Players can switch between a shinobi and a samurai, adding variety to both combat and story progression. The world is detailed and vibrant, bringing new life to Ubisoft’s long-running franchise.
More Hits You Shouldn’t Miss
Other standout releases include South of Midnight, a southern gothic action-adventure with a hand-crafted animation style, and Mario Kart World, which adds new tracks, characters, and online features that fans have long requested.
The Road Ahead Looks Just as Promising
With more major releases on the horizon, including Fable, Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Avowed, the second half of the year is looking just as strong.
If 2025 keeps up this momentum, it could end up being one of the stronger years for gaming.
Great list.
❤️
I still remember playing the original Doom on PC in 1993. I’m really looking forward to playing the next release.
Some great games on here! I love assassin’s creed shadows as well as doom, the dark ages. Thanks for sharing