GamingTrend 2025 Holiday Gaming Gift Guide — The Video Games Edition!
Our recommendations for your best holiday gift purchases
Editorials
It's that time of year again. 2025 has flown by, but not before dropping off some incredible video games. We've compiled our favorites, and you'll be able to find a bunch of these on Black Friday and other holiday sales. We've also linked our reviews, alongside handy links to purchase them for yourself. Check out our list below, and maybe check it twice.
Game of the Year Contenders
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 [XB/PS/PC]:
David Flynn said, "It’s hard to put into words how impressive Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is. From the breathtaking world, to the emotional and sincere story, to the deep and sensational turn-based combat, to the award-worthy soundtrack, every aspect of Expedition 33 hits the perfect note. This grandiose adventure is a monumental debut for a new studio, a true masterpiece from Sandfall Interactive.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is a special RPG that ranks with the Skyrims and Witchers of its genre. Despite a high learning curve, I found myself lost in its clutches for hours on end, immersed in the world of 1400s Bohemia. An absolutely gorgeous setting that's satisfying to explore, combined with rewarding progression and an outstanding narrative makes KCD2 a lock for awards season."
Donkey Kong Bananza [SWITCH]:
Adam Moreno said, "Donkey Kong Bananza takes everything you expect from a Donkey Kong game and polishes it with such a fine coat that almost any type of player can find something to have fun with. If it’s collecting every Banana, mastering the Bananza’s, completing side quests, or just playing through a fun story, there is something fun for all ages. With plenty of easter eggs for players familiar with the franchise, Bonanza doesn’t rely purely on nostalgia to make it enjoyable. If you’ve missed collectathons or just want to experience a DK game with your kids, Bananza is a great time."
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach [PS]:
David Flynn said, "Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is one of those rare moments where a game takes itself seriously as a work of art. It’s beautiful, touching, joyful, and tragic all at once. While you’ll be spending most of its runtime just driving trucks around instead of contending with the terrain, it’s still incredibly fun to play and witness its very human story unfold."
Ghost of Yōtei [PS]:
David Burdette said, "A worthy successor, this new legend in the Ghost saga stands on its own, and as tall as Mount Yōtei itself. Ghost of Yōtei takes the foundation of Ghost of Tsushima and builds something even better on it. Atsu’s journey to take on the Yōtei Six is magnificent, and backed by some of the best mechanics, visuals, sound, and immersive elements Sucker Punch has ever crafted."
Split Fiction [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Cassie Peterson said, "Split Fiction is a stunning and emotional buddy co-op adventure that kept us fully invested until the very end. Jumping between Zoe and Mio's different worlds was executed flawlessly, with unique gameplay, storylines, and details for every chapter. It's also the first of Hazelight's games to feature cross platform play, which performed superbly. This is how co-op games should be."
Assassin's Creed Shadows [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Ron Burke said, "Assassin’s Creed Shadows represents an excellent amalgamation of not only the new generation of Creed titles that started with Origins, but also plucking some of the best elements of those that came before. It’s a graphical powerhouse, combined with compelling characters, a meaningful and impactful story that takes risks, and refined gameplay mechanics. This is the new benchmark for the series, and it’s a high bar indeed."
Silent Hill f [XB/PS/PC]:
Henry Viola said, "The game never feels like it's trying too hard to scare you. The horror emerges naturally from character development, environmental design, and pacing. When the game finally reveals its sick imagery and body horror, it feels earned rather than cheap. The exploration of female adolescence through a horror lens is handled with remarkable sensitivity and insight. And with multiple endings to achieve and New Game Plus at launch, there’s plenty of lore to dive into."
Hades II [PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Hades II is an absolute blast from moment one, and only gets better from there. Everything from the dialogue to the music, visuals, combat, and build possibilities feels polished to a mirror sheen. It’s going to take you a long time to even reach the depths of Hades or the peak of Olympus, but when you finally do you’ll get hooked all over again."
Hollow Knight: Silksong [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Joey Caplan said, "It’s hard to believe that a game with more hype than the Rapture managed to exceed its monumental expectations. Hollow Knight: Silksong is the pinnacle of Metroidvania design, an unrivalled masterpiece 8 years in the making. It still feels surreal that we live in a post-Silksong-release world; it was not too long ago that the Hollow Knight community was driven to the brink of silksanity by Team Cherry’s tight lips and cryptic chocolate cake social media posts. Yet here we are, at long last permitted to partake in Silksong’s gorgeous environments, flowing combat, and a narrative that dares to go where few games would. At a criminal $20, Silksong is worth - and science can prove this - approximately 9.3X its price. It’s a no-brainer."
The Must Haves
Battlefield 6 [XB/PS/PC]:
Cassie Peterson said, "Battlefield 6 is an iconic and outstanding Battlefield experience, from every step in the campaign to every battle in multiplayer. The game stands tall with the return of the class system, intense vehicular and infantry combat, and a thrilling story. Battlefield 6 is the complete package that fans have been waiting for, and the vision for the future of Battlefield is on beautiful display."
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is an incredible feat by all teams involved. There has not been a Call of Duty game yet that has the scope of Black Ops 7, or the interconnected social experience it provides. Every facet of the game, whether Zombies, Multiplayer, Endgame, Dead Ops Arcade 4, or Campaign, feels like it was crafted passionately. Outstanding gameplay and progression systems back up a packed title; I’ll be playing BO7 for a very long time. Black Ops 7 is the pinnacle of modern Call of Duty, blending the past with the present in a way that’s worthy of the grind you’ll be putting into it."
ARC Raiders [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "After spending some time in the Rust Belt, I can say with certainty that ARC Raiders is a great step for the extraction shooter genre. Beyond the incredible atmosphere of the maps lies in-depth systems to explore. Although simple to pick up, some may find it frustrating along the way. But, if you put in the effort, the mechanics ARC Raiders has available can make for a stellar time topside."
Monster Hunter Wilds [XB/PS/PC]:
David Flynn said, "Monster Hunter Wilds is the best Monster Hunter has ever felt. It looks incredible and plays even better with fluid weapon combos, an incredibly addicting gameplay loop, and various monsters to fight. It’s not quite perfect, with the multiplayer features being unintuitive, but once you start playing you just don’t want to put it down."
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Ron Burke said, "Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles improves upon the original in nearly every way. It truly is the ultimate version of Final Fantasy Tactics, and an amazing adventure from start to finish."
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake isn’t what I expected in the best possible way. The remake of Dragon Quest I is great, if frustrating at times, as it fleshes out the characters and combat of Alefgard. Dragon Quest II is the real highlight here, though, transforming the black sheep of the series into one of the best entries with delightful characters, a gripping story, and fun, strategic battles. Both games are gorgeous, with fantastic pixel art and orchestrated music, so they’re both well worth your time."
South of Midnight [XB/PS/PC]:
Cassie Peterson said, "South of Midnight is a masterclass in picking a theme and sticking to it all the way through. The usage of music as a character world/lore enhancement is one of the best examples out there of what TO do. From the character models, to the music, and beyond; South of Midnight shows how to build a game around a style and committing fully."
NBA 2K26 [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Raven Winters said, "NBA 2K26 is a blast to play. The physics feel tight when needed and quickly swap to feeling fluid when needed. The City is awesome, and playing your character as he moves through his career is a blast."
Elden Ring Nightreign [XB/PS/PC]:
Henry Viola said, "Elden Ring Nightreign is a daring experiment that succeeds in delivering a fast-paced, replayable multiplayer experience, but only for genre veterans seeking a fresh take on the traditional FromSoftware formula."
Borderlands 4 [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Joe Morgan said, "With fantastic visuals, top-tier voice acting, excellent comedic writing, and an addictive gameplay loop, Borderlands 4 is just freaking fun. While not groundbreaking, the story of Kairos and the Timekeeper is well-done and engaging. Despite some technical issues that will hopefully be resolved quickly, Gearbox’s latest is a game fans won’t want to miss. It’s good to have Borderlands back."
Dying Light: The Beast [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "Dying Light: The Beast is a bloody great time. Kyle Crane's return is a highlight, and while the pieces around him don't always fit, there's enough heartfelt interactions involved to make it enjoyable. The best part is the gameplay – an astoundingly brutal and adventurous romp through a gorgeous and well crafted world. It's a beast of an effort by Techland, and it pays off handsomely."
Mafia: The Old Country [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "Mafia: The Old Country harkens back to the old days in more ways than one. While the gameplay is more of a standard third-person action affair, it’s refreshing to play a game that doesn’t require you to wade through padding to find the good stuff. With a stirring narrative that commands your attention and visuals that fully capture your gaze, The Old Country is exactly the place to holiday as the summer comes to a close."
The First Berserker: Khazan [XB/PS/PC]:
Corvo Rohwer said, "With blisteringly fast paced combat and visceral gameplay, The First Berserker: Khazan is a masterclass in the hardcore action RPG genre. Unrelenting bosses, vivid and varied environments, and fair-but-challenging foes come together with engaging mechanics to create an unforgettable journey of vengeance."
DOOM: The Dark Ages [XB/PS/PC]:
David Flynn said, "DOOM: The Dark Ages throws everything and the kitchen sink at the wall, and a lot of it sticks. However, just enough of it doesn’t stick to drag things as a whole down a few pegs. Gunplay and parrying feels great, as does weaving through the bullet hell-esque attacks, but suddenly dying for no perceivable reason does not. Still, it’s a game worth your time for those highs, even if you have to get through the lows to reach them."
The Outer Worlds 2 [XB/PS/PC]:
Henry Viola said, "If you craved a sprawling space opera with weighty choices and layered systems, The Outer Worlds 2 achieves that vision. Obsidian succeeds in expanding the scope, immaculate vibes, and mechanical depth of the first game whilst keeping the sharp writing and player choice they’re known for."
Avowed [XB/PC]:
David Flynn said, "Avowed is a stellar RPG, with satisfying combat, a gripping story, lovable characters, and plenty of roleplaying opportunities. It has more than its fair share of annoyances and jank, but the heart is what makes Avowed a must play."
Dune: Awakening [XB/PS/PC]:
Holly Hudspeth said, "Dune: Awakening does a phenomenal job of making Arrakis come to life, from the oppressing heat and sand as far as the eye can see, to the terrifying encounters with Shai Halud. Once you get your feet under you, the game has dozens of hours of exploration and content to work through, making it a very enjoyable experience. The combat leaves a lot to be desired, but classes, weapons, and gadgets feel fun. Took some points off for lack of housing decoration options and mods, and for the lack of real end game content. Would love to see raids, or overworld bosses, and better boss encounters in Testing Stations. Over all Dune: Awakening is a unique and fun experience that will suck you in right away."
Niche Section – Sports, Sims, and More
Jurassic World Evolution 3 [XB/PS/PC]:
Raven Winters said, "Jurassic World Evolution 3 is a triumph for the Jurassic World Evolution series of games. Every inch of this game is oozing with quality-of-life improvements. I am seriously chomping at the bit to get my hands on free updates and further DLC."
Anno 117: Pax Romana [PC/PS5/XSX]:
Ron Burke said, "Anno 117: Pax Romana is a veritable feast of improvements over not only its predecessors but the whole genre. There are occasionally obtuse moments, but these minor issues are overshadowed by improvements at every possible turn. If you’re looking for your next city builder, this is it."
Madden NFL 26 [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Adam Moreno said, "EA Sports Madden NFL 26 has a lot going for it this year with major updates to Madden Franchise Mode and a great new start to a refresh for NFL Superstar, all the while keeping MUT and online play steady as always. Franchise mode feels the most cinematic it’s ever felt with Rich Eisen and Scott Hanson bringing a new level of immersion into the game and adding all sorts of weekly reports and planning. The gameplay itself feels updated with the inclusion of the wear & tear system coming from College Football to Madden and multiple choices when it comes to passing mechanics. While bugs are a’plenty right now, this is a major step in the right direction for the Madden franchise that really needed a strong showing this year. If you’ve not played Madden in a while, this is where you’ll want to jump in again, especially Franchise Mode fans."
EA Sports College Football 26 [XB/PS/PC]:
Adam Moreno said, "College Football takes everything from last year and moves it forward a little bit, with the stadium atmosphere, lighting, and quality of life updates taking the star position. Dynasty and Road to Glory have both gotten much-needed tweaks from last year and much-needed attention to detail, especially in the menus. While there are many upgrades from College Football 25, College Football 26 suffers from a lot of little issues, which create frustrating moments in multiple areas. Time seems to have put a damper on making this game as polished as it could have been."
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 lands somewhere between remake and reimagining. It doesn’t land either perfectly, but it's still a ton of fun. There’s a lot to see and do, but I’ll always come back to just skating around, pulling off tricks just for the fun of it."
Monster Energy Supercross 25 [XB/PS/PC]:
Raven Winters said, "Monster Energy Supercross 25 is a fun racing simulator that is a fine entry point for new players. The tracks are gorgeous, the sound is fantastic, and improving in this game feels so good."
Two Point Museum [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "Two Point Museum isn’t just your run of the mill management sim, it’ll take your breath away with how much is on offer with its addicting gatcha expeditions and vast customization options. Every Museum is a delight to play and if it's anything like its predecessors, I’m pumped for the sea of DLC to come. If you’re looking for a game to sink hundreds of hours into, then you can never go wrong with a Two Point game, but Two Point Museum may take the crown amongst its peers."
PowerWash Simulator 2 [XB/PS/PC]:
Anthony Pelone said, "PowerWash Simulator 2 is more of the same, but it doesn’t need to be anything else. With a meaty campaign, DLC offerings in the future, and an ever-addictive feedback loop, things are only looking up for Muckingham’s local hero. Watch out for the “one more game” trap!"
PGA Tour 2K25 [XB/PS/PC]:
Ron Burke said, "Listen, I'm no golf expert. I just know that I've had an unreasonable amount of fun mastering the excellent controls, building a career, making money, trash talking my opponent, and wearing some of the dumbest looking clothes in any sport. From rookie to Tiger Woods, this game is just good clean fun. You'll watch your hours disappear in the blink of an eye – it's a hole in one."
Sid Meier's Civilization VII [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Ron Burke said, "This one launched in a rather rough state, but with patches and work the team has made it worthy of an entry among the best Civ games, and an excellent strategy title all around. Now you can even play it on the go, which is dangerous given the addictive nature of the Civ series. The team continues to support and add to it, so you can expect to see this one continue to evolve and expand into 2026.
Rematch [XB/PS/PC]:
Joe Morgan said, "Rematch is a great arcade sports title that’s sure to win over both hardcore and casual fans. With tight controls and excellent customization options, the title’s fun and easy to pick up. While the soundtrack feels lacking and matchmaking can occasionally balloon, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything like this rooted in traditional soccer. If you dig arcade soccer and are tired of gasoline fumes, you’ll have a great time with Rematch."
Capcom Fighting Collection 2 [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Katelyn Lawlor said, "While the extras don't add much to the package, the collection of often unreleased 3D fighters with online support makes this an easy recommend. Capcom Fighting Collection 2 has a lot of fun fighters with depth and energy, offering a myriad of unique experiences."
Diplomacy is Not an Option [PC]:
Mark Julian said, "After 52 hours of play, Diplomacy is Not an Option has captured my attention in a way most games these days can’t. It’s an old-school style RTS that demands commitment and a dedication to “get good”. It asks a lot from the player and does many things right while stumbling in a few areas."
Slime Rancher 2 [XB/PS/PC]:
Raven Winters said, "More Slime Rancher is always a good thing. Slime AI has been improved, Slime personalities stand out more and are better designed, and Rainbow Island is gorgeous. However, a distinct lack of progression and a tiresome gameplay loop make Slime Rancher 2 feel more like DLC than a distinct sequel."
Switch and Family
Mario Kart World [SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Mario Kart World has a lot of big ideas, but its execution on them can feel shaky. It has a massive, interconnected open world, but there’s not much to do in it and you barely spend any time on the carefully crafted racetracks. It bumps each race up to 24 participants, but can feel so chaotic as to be unparsable at times. The driving in and of itself is great, it’s just everything that surrounds it can feel half baked."
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Adam Moreno said, "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds sets itself apart from other cart racers with its speed of gameplay, amount of customization, brilliant soundtrack, and great cast of characters that will expand more and more with DLC. With many different game-types, carts, and items to collect, there will be something for any Sonic the Hedgehog fan. With the announcement of Hatsune Miku, Joker from Persona 5, and Ichiban Kasuga from Like A Dragon all coming in the next months, followed by a Minecraft and Spongebob DLC, we’ll have plenty to look forward to, plus some unannounced DLC as well! Sonic Team blew my expectations for the full game out of this “Cross”World."
Hello Kitty Island Adventure [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "In a saturated market with games clambering to echo the soul of Animal Crossing, Hello Kitty Island Adventure has finally grabbed that baton and ran with it. It ticks every box in what I want from this genre, chucking every possible game mechanic at the player to play around with so there’s never a dull moment, and probably won't be for quite a while. My only gripe is that I had to stop playing it in order to write this review."
LEGO Party! [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Cassie Peterson said, "LEGO Party! is an amazingly fun party game for fans of all ages. The game is full of LEGO charm, from the set pieces to the minifigs to the in-game commentary from the game show hosts. There are some concerns regarding performance in minigames and a lack of LEGO properties being represented, but overall, this is a must-have for anyone looking to add to their LEGO collection."
Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Jacob Kay said, "In short, Tales of the Shire is a genuinely exceptional game. It is a cozy Hobbit life sim with unique characters, a quaint art style and gameplay mechanics that feel engaging, fun and sometimes surprisingly intricate. An absolute treat for all who partake, whether diehard fans of Tolkien or the cozy genre, or those with even a passing knowledge of either."
MainFrames [PC/SWITCH]:
Nicholas Aguilera said, "MainFrames is a short and sweet platformer that manages to pack plenty of challenge and fun into every stage, all while remaining visually striking, engaging, and memorable."
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is oozing with charm and bursting with activities. While it all feels a little shallow, the constant feeling of progress is great and there’s a ton to customize. The story isn’t great, but it doesn’t need to be when there’s always something to do around the next corner."
Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar [PC/SWITCH]:
Adam Moreno said, "Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar for the Nintendo Switch 2 is the best that the series has looked, while also adding voice acting to the major plotlines. With creative progression, interesting townspeople, lovely romances, and a fascinating Bazaar system, Grand Bazaar is a great opportunity for new and returning players of the franchise to enjoy a great game in the series. If you’re looking for a great cozy game for the Nintendo Switch 2, look no further than Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar."
Nicktoons & The Dice of Destiny [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Raven Winters said, "Nicktoons & The Dice of Destiny is a stellar entry in the Nicktoons franchise. While the story is only alright and the game sways to the easy side, I found myself having loads of fun with this entry. Newcomers to the genre are sure to have a blast with the characters and themes presented."
Is This Seat Taken? [PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "Is This Seat Taken? is puzzling at its finest, with a basic concept that is transformed into something intuitive and provides a lot of challenge for those seeking it. The world created is small yet cute and lively, and it actually had me remembering the storylines of some of their main characters. The team didn’t need to do this, but it sure added a level of depth to a gameplay-focused game. I just hope that this will be the type of game that gets more and more DLC, so I can find an excuse to do more puzzles!"
Digital Darlings
Lies of P: Overture [XB/PS/PC]:
Henry Viola said, "Lies of P: Overture is a fantastic, albeit slightly short, addition to the already incredible Lies of P base game. Clocking in somewhere between six to eight hours, Overture is an incredibly well-made expansion which does an impressive job of fleshing out the lore of Krat while providing impressive new set pieces to explore, weapons to master, Legion Arms to forge, and challenging bosses to defeat."
Sword of the Sea [PS/PC]:
Joe Morgan said, "Sword of the Sea is a beautiful, almost-cozy experience that, like Giant Squid’s other titles, stands as a strong argument for games as art. The game has chill vibes and a gorgeous, atmospheric aesthetic while still delivering an eloquent narrative. If you’re looking for something short and sweet, Sword of the Sea is the low-friction adventure for you."
Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream [XB/PS/PC]:
Richard Allen said, "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is a brilliant testament to what a small team of dedicated individuals can accomplish, with River End Games releasing one of the best narrative-driven stealth adventures in a long while. Eriksholm features a moving, tragic, and ultimately hopeful story, mixed with fun stealth gameplay, and increasingly difficult scenarios to navigate. From its humble beginnings to its epic end, Eriksholm delivers in spades."
Abiotic Factor [XB/PS/PC]:
Raven Winters said, "Abiotic Factor is a gorgeous survival game about pushing the boundaries of reality as we know it. You won’t be stranded on an island; this time, you have to survive a facility teeming with creatures, objects, and other humans who want you dead. How far are you willing to go to escape?"
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Jack Zustiak said, "Shinobi: Art of Vengeance doesn’t settle for redoing the past. Instead, it brings the series forward with a distinct art style and bold new ideas. Art of Vengeance captures the spirit of Sega with a well-designed game that as an overly concerned Shinobi fanatic, I can muster only minor gripes about. It's good, it's fresh, and it's fun."
The Rogue Prince of Persia [PC]:
Corvo Rohwer said, "The Rogue Prince of Persia excels in 2D side scrolling combat by infusing a buttery smooth parkour system into the mix. Retaking Ctesiphon from the Huns using the immortal powers of the Prince works so well for the roguelite formula, and each run had me wanting to jump right back in."
Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "Citizen Sleeper 2 shakes up its own already stellar formula in a way that’s fresh and innovative whilst also dialing the stress to 11. Its scope is larger and more ambitious but also maintains that fragile beauty of the world and its inhabitants. There's a lot to uncover here for new and existing players, but be careful, this time around it doesn't hold your hand but leaves you flailing around in space. But once you find your feet, you’ll find that you can never tire of Citizen Sleeper’s world."
Keeper [XB/PC]:
Joe Morgan said, "Keeper is a fascinating tale full of moments that will make you think — not just about the game, but life and our place in the world. The visuals are intriguing, and the on-screen action is supported by a solid soundtrack. The mechanics are simple and can become a little monotonous at times, but there’s always something new around the next bend. While Keeper may not be a game that appeals to everyone, the nature of the story ensures that it’s certainly a game that’s for everyone."
Consume Me [PC]:
Olivia Davies said, "Consume Me is a pure delight to indulge in with a style that makes the mundane life of a teenager look exciting and like something straight out of a manga, but with messaging that hits home and touches on very real topics that harm a lot of teenage girls. It’s interactive storytelling at its best with RPG elements and a management system that had me scratching my head and even resetting a few times, which added a layer of challenge that made me want to master its mechanics. This is a true gem that has definitely come from the heart of its devs but with comedy that had me in hysterics, I can’t wait to see what they do next."
The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy [PC/SWITCH]:
Martin Du said, "If I were to describe The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy- with one phrase, it would be greater than the sum of its 100 parts. Despite the hurdles in its character writing and monotonous first 30 hours, this collaboration feels like a culmination of Uchikoshi and Kodaka's driving philosophies. Hundred Line's joyful and cruel execution of its themes is the linchpin of its quality. The strategy RPG battles are compelling in both gameplay and story. Uchikoshi’s fresh and risky take on his branching narrative framework brings to life world building and heartfelt character moments. But it was Kodaka’s contributions to the main scenario that most surprised me as someone mixed on most of his games. If Danganronpa v3 was an artist's celebration and critique on artistic expression, then Hundred Line is a human's celebration and critique on humanity. The capacity of people to love and hate. By its final moments I was reduced to a sobbing mess, and that is all the confirmation I need to know that Too Kyo's six year ambitions have paid off."
Rosewater [PC]:
David Burdette said, "Rosewater is a marvelous surprise in the middle of the first half of 2025 games. With a captivating story and charming characters, traversing the wild west is a delight. It’s not as challenging as some other point and click games, but what Grundislav has built is a great example of what this genre can offer to reach a greater audience. Lasso this one up ASAP."
Bionic Bay [PS/PC]:
Joe Morgan said, "The best thing I can say about a game of this nature is that it accomplishes what it sets out to do. It creates puzzles to be solved, gives players the tools to succeed, and then makes you feel like a dextrous genius when you execute successfully. Couple that fantastic visual design and a solid soundtrack and you have something special fans will come back to time and again. Don’t sleep on this wild ride."
Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Jack Zustiak said, "The Oath in Felghana stands strong as one the best Ys entries to date. Its sharp and compact game design makes just as strong of an impression with this Memoire release as it did when I first played it over a decade ago. Unfortunately, this rerelease does not bring much more to the table than a great game to new consoles. Its priorities when it comes to updating the game’s visuals are questionable at best, but thankfully far from fatal."
No Sleep for Kaname Date - From AI: The Somnium Files [PC/SWITCH]:
Martin Du said, "Believe it when Uchikoshi says No Sleep For Kaname Date is a game made by fans, for fans. Kazuya Yamada delivers a heartfelt epilogue to the first Somnium Files’s self contained story. While the pacing feels a bit listless thanks to the narrative structure, and the escape rooms are straight up miss, those ended up being small blemishes in the grand scheme. What I'll remember is seeing characters new and old grieve and heal together. I laughed, I cried, and most importantly I was moved seeing the chaotic duo of a cuckoldry obsessed detective and his AI eyeball partner get no sleep because of the friends they made along the way."
Old Skies [PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Old Skies is an incredible adventure game story that will have you laughing, crying, and in awe - sometimes all at the same time. Its puzzles are pretty easy to solve, but the story and characters will have you glued to your seat until the final moments."
Kabuto Park [PC]:
Olivia Davies said, "I can’t get over how sweet Kabuto Park is, and it proves that simplicity can really be the best policy. However, it falters sometimes due to its small scope and simple premise. It allows for a lot of repetition in its gameplay, alleviated by a short runtime but present nonetheless. But don’t let this stop you from trying out such a relaxing and heartfelt indie title. For such a small price, why wouldn’t you at least give it a go?"
Caves of Qud [PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Caves of Qud is a game that will reward you more and more for putting in the time and effort to learn about it. Even just from scratching the surface, however, I am absolutely entranced by the worlds the game can create."
The Drifter [PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "After tons of time squinting at my monitor trying to solve whodunits and twisting my iPad around to see if my puzzle will cooperate, The Drifter has been the refreshing and innovative experience I’ve been looking for. You’ll find me hard-pressed to find any glaring flaws, as it excels in its characters, writing, puzzling, and everything else. It’s a thrill ride from start to finish that I’d recommend to anyone."
Despelote [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Olivia Davies said, "Despelote was a bit of a personal one for me, and I can see why some players may not love it due to it being a walking simulator where you kick a ball around. But for anyone willing to give it a chance, you’ll find a snippet of pure sentiment to engage with as you put on the shoes of its developer. You see Ecuador for its authentic self as a child and witness a moment that you probably never batted an eye at before. But you leave with a fuzzy feeling, wanting to reminisce about your own memories you had as a child."
Echoes of the End [XB/PS/PC]:
Joe Morgan said, "Echoes of the End may be one of 2025’s best surprises. While it has a bit of jank that leads to occasional frustration, it’s easily offset by gorgeous visuals, a great story, fascinating lore, engaging combat, smart puzzles, and excellent traversal mechanics. I desperately hope Myrkur Games continues to build and grow what has the potential to be an incredible franchise."
Liminal Exit [PC]:
Jackson Lustberg said, "Liminal Exit is a game that knows its inspiration and executes on it well, from the eerie anomalies to the uncertainty of progress. While the game will probably only take you around an hour to beat, it leaves a lasting impression."
Our review | Buy it now!
Among the Whispers - Provocation [PC]:
Jackson Lustberg said, "Among the Whispers - Provocation takes the formula that Conrad Stevenson’s Paranormal PI introduced, streamlines the pacing, and adds a strong story with a killer setting. Any fan of single-player ghost-hunting games should consider this one a buy.
The Rest of the Best!
Ninja Gaiden 4 [XB/PS/PC]:
Jack Zustiak said, "Ninja Gaiden 4 answers the call for a Ninja Gaiden successor. The gameplay offers plenty to enjoy for series veterans and newcomers alike, although the elements surrounding the combat don't put up as good of a fight."
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Jack Zustiak said, "Ragebound shows a great deal of respect to Ninja Gaiden’s legacy while being unafraid to try out some new ideas. It looks great, sounds great, and plays great. I just wish it respected the player on the same level as its predecessors, as its low difficulty and high player dictation is somewhat offputting for a longtime fan like myself."
Cronos: The New Dawn [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Henry Viola said, "Cronos: The New Dawn is Bloober Team’s attempt to prove they're more than just remake specialists. Did they succeed? You betcha."
Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater [XB/PS/PC]:
David Flynn said, "Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater wants to have its cake and eat it too by remaining incredibly faithful to the original while also updating some key aspects like the controls and visuals. To die-hard fans of the PS2 classic, this is less of a definitive remake of the game and more just another way to play a fantastic game. Newcomers are certainly in for a treat, however, as Δ smooths over the original’s rougher edges for a more modern experience. It loses a lot in the translation, like some of the nuance in stealth and combat, but remains a thoroughly enjoyable experience."
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii [XB/PS/PC]:
Katelyn Lawlor said, "With an engaging story, endless minigames, always-entertaining characters, and a great blend of series mechanics old and new, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is an excellent entry into the franchise. Now we just need a patch for that lighting issue…"
Shadow Labyrinth [XB/PS/PC]:
Jack Zustiak said, "Shadow Labyrinth earns the right to have its darker version of Pac-Man be taken seriously. Its solid exploration and combat mechanics make for an excellent game that gets further elevated by its fun integration and celebration of Namco history into its design. While at times the game can feel a little too bloated with ideas, it’s okay to overeat during a celebration."
METAL EDEN [XB/PS/PC]:
Corvo Rohwer said, "METAL EDEN is a satisfyingly fast paced slaughter as you glide through the air and tear out the hearts of your enemies. With the varied weaponry at the Hyper Unit’s disposal, you’ll certainly have a blast rescuing the citizens of Moebius from the cryptic engineers, even if the conclusion comes quickly."
RoboCop: Rogue City - Unfinished Business [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "While it starts slow, RoboCop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business finds its groove and keeps going. The gameplay is as ferocious as ever, with some great character work balancing it out with several heartfelt moments. If you liked Rogue City, you have no excuse not to grab Unfinished Business, and if you’re new to Teyon’s take, prepare to have a heck of a time."
Atomfall [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "While I wouldn’t call Atomfall revolutionary, Rebellion has done a great job of taking a unique setting and putting the right pieces around it. Figuring out where less is more is tantamount to the formula that works for Atomfall, along with offering players a streamlined experience that can be enjoyed for multiple playthroughs. Atomfall is brilliant, and solid in the right places."
Sniper Elite: Resistance [XB/PS/PC]:
Henry Viola said, "Let’s be real here. Sniper Elite: Resistance clearly doesn’t reinvent the series, as it simply expands on where Sniper Elite 5 left off. Those looking for a full fledged next-generation sequel will surely be disappointed, but those looking to play more Sniper Elite will rejoice at the small refinements introduced in this new package. Viva la Sniper Elite 5.5!"
FBC: Firebreak [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "Remedy games are about the experience, and the team nailed that with FBC: Firebreak. While I wouldn’t say it’s in the upper echelon of their titles, Firebreak succeeds in being an entertaining cooperative adventure into the depths of the Oldest House. It’s fresh in a way only Remedy can make; a worthwhile experiment. Thanks to them, I’ll never look at sticky notes the same again."
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage [XB/PS/PC]:
Adam Moreno said, "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage - Tape 1 presents a heartfelt look at girlhood in all its flaws and triumphs. As only half of the full picture, Tape 1 can feel slow and lacking in payoff, but it’s still an intriguing journey with lovable characters, reactive choices, and some phenomenal needle drops. It’s flawed in a lot of ways, particularly with regards to performance on PS5, but its heart shines through."
Remakes and Remasters
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered [XB/PS/PC]:
David Burdette said, "This might be the best visual remaster we’ve ever seen. Virtuos rebuilt Cyrodiil to look even better than we remembered, at a level that matches recent releases. While the gameplay itself is largely untouched and can feel a bit dated, the tremendous narrative steps in to make this worthy of your time. This is how we were meant to experience The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion."
Persona 3 Reload [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Persona 3 Reload is the best Persona game to date. It reimagines a fan favorite to be the best it can be, even if it does stumble in some ways. There are a few Social Links that could have used overhauling, and the game is a bit too faithful to the original in these ways. However, the overall experience is transcendent and took me straight back to hanging out with my virtual friends in high school, getting to know them and slicing up Shadows. There really is nothing out there like Persona."
Yakuza 0: Director's Cut [SWITCH]:
Katelyn Lawlor said, "When the story gets going, it’s a lot of fun. There are twists and turns, epic fights with sick attacks, and genuinely interesting characters. I’d argue this is one of the series' best entries but it’s not as perfect as I remember, even with that decent dub. If you want to get into Yakuza, this is a good way to start but if you’ve been to the 1980s Kamurocho before, maybe keep to memes."
Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Joe Morgan said, "Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny is a lot of fun. The HD update looks fantastic, while the classic gameplay remains intact. There are some solid quality-of-life updates added that fans are sure to enjoy. The enemy and boss designs are great, and the ensemble cast keeps things interesting. For better or worse, the gameplay is still totally on the classic end and, while most burrs have been buffed out, a few snags may remain for newcomers. This remaster is responsible for winning me over to the Onimusha franchise, and I hope more folks feel the same."
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Ron Burke said, "Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is a gorgeous remaster that preserves the soul of the originals while breathing life into it for a new generation."
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition [SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is a phenomenal improvement on a rough but fantastic game. In terms of new content, however, it can feel very rushed and unsatisfying. Aside from that, this is still the same Xenoblade Chronicles X fanatics have come to love."
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD [SWITCH]:
Richard Allen said, "Donkey Kong Country Returns HD remains a classic and often challenging platformer brought to new life with a gorgeous HD makeover. Unfortunately, aside from a new gameplay mode which makes the game slightly easier and its updated visuals, this remaster is relatively lacking in new features. Still, fans of Donkey Kong or well-designed platformers will find a lot to love here."
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter [PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, despite being a remake of a 21 year old game, feels like a breath of fresh air. It masterfully combines action and turn-based combat using some in-depth character customization and weaves an intricate tale of love, empathy, political strife, and redemption. It’s a game that is almost always firing on all cylinders, keeping you engaged on this road and those beyond."
Tales of Graces f Remastered [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
Katelyn Lawlor said, "Tales of Graces f Remastered is the same enjoyable experience from over a decade ago brought back in a clean package that runs well with some decent quality of life additions like the markers and toggles. Bandai Namco and the developers nailed it this time, no strings attached with this remaster. As for Tales of Graces itself, it stands out in the series with its sillier cast, striking art style, fast paced combat, and easy-to-understand and fun to master Title system. While I think this is the Tales Of game that benefits from co-op the most, you’re getting a fun RPG with a lot of “power of friendship” speeches so if that appeals to you, you’re in for a great time."
Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster [SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "Bravely Default Flying Fairy is a great game, and while this HD Remaster cleans things up a bit its efforts often feel lacking. It looks better in some ways, but the same in others and plays better in some ways but worse in others. If you enjoy experimenting with character builds, it’s a great time, but it’s still going to take some grinding to get there. If you can persist through the grind, you’ll find the same diamond in the rough that the game was on the 3DS."
Lunar Remastered Collection [XB/PS/PC/SWITCH]:
David Flynn said, "The Lunar games are delightful, classic RPGs, and the Lunar Remastered Collection makes them easier to play than ever. It doesn’t bring together all versions of each game for a truly comprehensive look at the series’ history, but it is a faithful update to the PS1 remakes."
Virtual Reality
HITMAN World of Assassination Part One - VR Edition [PSVR]:
Ron Burke said, "This is the best VR version of Hitman: World of Assassination, hands down. While it’s not a fully interactive world, the controls are still a bit inconsistent, and there are a few remaining bugs, virtual reality adds a whole new element to the game that makes it all new again and worth the occasional aggravation, even for veteran players. If you’ve ever wanted to really become Agent 47, this is an easy recommendation."
Metro Awakening VR [PSVR/QUEST]:
Richard Allen said, "Metro Awakening is another good entry in the outstanding Metro series, though at times it feels like more of a side quest than a main entry. Still, the graphics are gorgeous, the metro underground is equal parts fun and creepy to explore in VR, and the game makes great use of VR to bring the world to life and really immerse the player. Despite a few minor issues, Awakening is a great VR experience and well worth picking up, especially if you are a fan of the series."
Arizona Sunshine Remake [PSVR/QUEST]:
Richard Allen said, "Arizona Sunshine Remake feels like a modern VR title, despite first releasing in 2017. Though relatively short, Sunshine provides an exciting, fast-paced, zombie shooter filled to the brim with intense situations, great gunplay, and humorous dialogue. The addition of horde mode and two DLCs certainly add value, though one DLC fares better than the other. Still, as an overall package, Arizona Sunshine Remake is well worth the cost of admission."
GORN 2 [PSVR/QUEST]:
Noah Rigsby said, "GORN 2, at its core, is pure bloody gladiator fun. Outrageous doesn’t begin to describe the experience of its humor, gore, and cartoonish brutality. This is absolutely one that VR owners need to check out."
Hidden Memories of the Gardens Between VR [PSVR/QUEST]:
Noah Rigsby said, "Mastering the manipulation of time, traversing a dreamlike cosmos, and solving immersive puzzles showcases why Hidden Memories of the Gardens Between is an adorable VR title that you shouldn’t let go under the radar."
BONUS: ModRetro games!
ModRetro has done a lot for retro gaming so far. Not only is the Chromatic handheld phenomenal, but their publishing arm is releasing new games for ANY Gameboy player, including your old one sitting in storage. We're still in the process of reviewing many of them, but check out both our reviews and videos for the current library! You can grab your own ModRetro Chromatic here.
Chantey:
David Burdette said, "X marks the spot, and Chantey is the mark of an epic adventure. This narrative-driven and rhythm-based game is a delightful romp across the sea, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with what Gortyn Code has come up with. Drink up me hearties."
Dragonyhm:
David Burdette said, "Dragonyhm is a great fantasy game in many respects, but its slow combat holds it back. There is so much to like in the design from the deep lore to the gorgeous graphics to the puzzle designs. If you can weather the grind, you'll find a lot to love."
Rayman:
SELF SIMULATED:
Wicked Plague:
First Contact Protocol:
Gravitorque:
Thanks for checking out all our recommendations for your holiday shopping! Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!
See also: Holiday Gaming Gift Guide | PC | PlayStation 4 | PlayStation 5 | Xbox One | Xbox Series X | Switch | Switch 2 | Quest 2 | Quest 3 | VR | Video Games | Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 | Kingdom Come: Deliverance II | Donkey Kong Bananza | Death Stranding 2: On The Beach | Ghost of Yōtei | Split Fiction | Assassin's Creed Shadows | Silent Hill f | Hades II | Hollow Knight: Silksong
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