Gaming in 2025: A Year of Surprises and Standouts
Believe it or not, 2025 was a year that almost didn’t happen for me. After the debacle with our former owners, G/O Media—a group that seemed more interested in chaos than quality—I’m thrilled to be back, sharing my top 10 games of the year. But here’s where it gets controversial: G/O Media’s ban on personal top 10 lists nearly silenced this tradition, proving once again that mismanagement can almost destroy something beloved. Thankfully, they’re gone, and I’m here to celebrate the games that made 2025 unforgettable.
This year’s list was oddly challenging to compile. I started with over 20 fantastic games, but narrowing it down to 10 was surprisingly straightforward. Unlike previous years, no single title screamed, “This is Zack’s favorite!” It was a year filled with great games, but few left a lasting impression like Control in 2019 or Half-Life: Alyx in 2020. Still, each game on this list earned its spot for unique reasons. So, without further ado, let’s dive in—and yes, my 2024 list is waiting at the end for those who dare to scroll!
1. Battlefield 6
Battlefield 6 is the chaotic yet tactical multiplayer experience I’ve always loved. Sure, it has flaws—smaller maps, vehicle balancing issues, and a forgettable single-player campaign. But here’s the part most people miss: Despite its imperfections, I’ve sunk nearly 150 hours into it since October. The thrill of driving tanks, clearing rooms with friends, and narrowly escaping destruction only to be sniped from across the map? That’s Battlefield at its best. It’s messy, it’s intense, and I adore it.
2. Routine
Routine is a sci-fi horror game that does something rare: it lingers. Its oppressive atmosphere evolves in fascinating ways, ramping up the tension without relying on cheap jump scares. Set in mundane yet eerily realistic spaces like kitchens and offices, it pulls you into its world completely. One scare in particular left me shaken—a moment I’ll never forget. And this is the part most people miss: Horror doesn’t need gore to be effective; it just needs to stick with you.
3. Avowed
Obsidian’s Avowed is a love letter to big RPGs, streamlining Bethesda’s formula while adding well-written companions and handcrafted side quests. It lacks the scale of Skyrim or Fallout 4, but its memorable characters and moments stood out in a crowded year. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is it better to have a massive, bloated RPG or a tighter, more focused experience? I’ll let you decide.
4. THPS 3+4
Iron Galaxy’s remake of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is a nostalgic masterpiece. While some lamented the removal of open-world quests from THPS 4, I’ve always preferred the classic two-minute format. This remake captures the essence of the originals, with stunning visuals, smooth gameplay, and enough challenges to keep you grinding for hours. Now, who’s going to convince Activision to remake Tony Hawk’s Underground?
5. Despelote
I’m not a soccer fan, but Despelote won me over with its heartfelt story of a young boy growing up in Quito during Ecuador’s 2002 World Cup qualification. It’s a tale of dreams, trouble, and the passage of time, beautifully told through storytelling, voice acting, and visuals. And this is the part most people miss: Games don’t need flashy mechanics to be impactful—sometimes, a simple story is enough.
6. Dispatch
Dispatch proves that the Telltale formula can still shine with a few tweaks. This superhero workplace comedy features strong voice acting, a focus on narrative, and genuinely funny moments. It’s a refreshing take on episodic storytelling that, in my opinion, surpasses most of Telltale’s past work. Where’s season 2, though?
7. Mafia: The Old Country
In a world dominated by open-world RPGs, Mafia: The Old Country is a breath of fresh air. This linear, 10-to-15-hour cinematic experience delivers solid gameplay and gorgeous visuals without the bloat of crafting or skill trees. Set in 1904 Italy, it’s a classic mobster story with a twist—and it’s absolutely stunning. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are linear games a dying breed, or do they still have a place in modern gaming?
8. South of Midnight
South of Midnight is a stop-motion-style adventure that tackles heavy themes like racism and slavery while celebrating Southern culture. Its combat could use work, but everything else—from its magical world to its incredible soundtrack—is top-notch. If you want a game that makes you feel something, this is it. And this is the part most people miss: Sometimes, a game’s impact comes from its heart, not its mechanics.
9. Jurassic World Evolution 3
Jurassic World Evolution 3 is the ultimate prehistoric park builder. I once spent three hours designing a paddock, only to realize I’d lost track of time completely. It’s a game that doesn’t need an epic story or deep themes—it just lets you create, expand, and perfect your own dinosaur paradise. Easily the best Jurassic Park game ever made.
10. The Outer Worlds 2 (My Game of the Year)
Choosing The Outer Worlds 2 as my top game wasn’t easy, but the more I reflect, the more it stands out. As a Fallout fan, I’ve been craving an RPG that captures the open-ended FPS action of those classics, and The Outer Worlds 2 delivers—and then some. With improved combat, visuals, and quirky moments, it’s a joy to play. Obsidian even included an in-game radio, a nod to Bethesda’s Fallout series. I can’t wait to replay it in a few years and rediscover its magic.
Zack’s Top 10 Games of 2024
- Astro Bot
- Silent Hill 2
- Star Wars Outlaws
- Helldivers 2
- Balatro
- Dragon Age: The Veilguard
- Thank Goodness You’re Here
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
- Dungeons of Hinterberg
- Indiana Jones and the Great Circle – My Favorite Game of 2024!
Final Thoughts
2025 was a strange year for gaming, but it proved that even in the absence of clear standouts, there’s room for innovation, nostalgia, and heart. But here’s where it gets controversial: What makes a game truly great? Is it its mechanics, its story, or its ability to leave a lasting impression? Let me know in the comments—I’m eager to hear your thoughts!
