The gaming landscape in 2025 has been vibrant and exhilarating, showcasing a variety of new titles that have captured the hearts of players and critics alike. A game enthusiast highlights their gaming journey with pride, reflecting on an impressive list of 195 completed games, alongside a hefty backlog of 197 titles ready to be explored on their Xbox Series X.
This year has witnessed notable releases, with a mix of heartfelt indie gems and ambitious AAA titles. Among the standout titles, **South of Midnight** garnered attention for its striking art direction and storytelling, although its repetitive gameplay mechanics held it back from making a larger impact. Another title, **Avowed**, from Obsidian Entertainment, was appreciated for its colorful fantasy setting but faced criticism for performance issues at launch.
**Assassin’s Creed Shadows**, which has garnered mixed responses due to Ubisoft’s reputation, surprised many with its captivating world and engaging gameplay, standing out as one of the publisher’s most ambitious efforts in recent years. Meanwhile, **Blue Prince**, an unexpected hit, combines roguelike mechanics with puzzle-solving elements, capturing the imagination of players with its innovative design.
In the realm of indie titles, **Citizen Sleeper: Starward Vector** shone brightly, offering a compelling narrative and gameplay experience that resonates deeply with players, reinforcing the notion that the indie game scene is thriving.
At the top of the list is **Clair Obscur: Expedition 33**, proclaimed as a prime contender for game of the year. This turn-based RPG offers near perfection through its rich worldbuilding, artistic direction, and engrossing narrative. The emotional impact it leaves on players signifies its potential to be one of the defining games of the year.
As for the future, the enthusiast notes their excitement for revisiting classics like **Oblivion** while also maintaining a long list of games waiting to be played, promising a busy and rewarding gaming year ahead. With so many exciting titles on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be a remarkable year for gamers, filled with diverse experiences that highlight the evolving nature of the industry.