Edited By
Emma Collins

As we hit the halfway mark of 2025, gamers across forums are weighing in on their favorite titles of the year. With the buzz focusing heavily on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, players are also highlighting Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 as top contenders.
Clair Obscur has been praised for its unique mechanics and engaging storytelling. Many players highlight the gameโs parry system, comparing it favorably to established franchises. One fan stated, "Expedition 33 is a masterpiece!" This sentiment resonates strongly across discussions, as players rave about its storytelling and character depth.
In contrast, Deltarune has captured hearts for its emotional impact and nostalgia, especially resonating with those who loved Undertale. A player noted, "Walking around town with Susie in Chapter 4 is one of my favorite things in gaming." The blend of humor and emotional stakes keeps players glued to their screens.
Comments reflect a mix of excitement and nostalgia:
High Praise for Expedition 33: "Iโve never played a game for 60 hours straight before."
Fondness for Deltarune: "It made me feel the same way Mother 3 did."
Mixed Opinions on Gameplay: Some find the gameplay of Deltarune tosses in unexpected elements that shake things up, as one gamer joked about being "glued to the screen" during climactic moments.
Several other titles surfaced in discussions:
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: One player highlighted its immersive world, stating, "I thought Iโd move on after finishing the story, but I just had to go back."
Tempest Rising: A niche choice gaining traction for its classic RTS feel, praised for its compelling soundtrack.
Signalis: Lauded as the best new game some players experienced this year, despite not being a fresh release.
๐ฎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a front-runner for Game of the Year, sparking immense discussions.
๐ Deltarune ignites nostalgic feelings, likening it to past fan favorites.
๐ค Lesser-known titles like Tempest Rising and Signalis are gaining unexpected appreciation.
"Expedition 33 feels designed specifically for me." - A passionate fan
Whether itโs the characters, gameplay, or emotional pull, 2025 offers a rich gaming experience, making the fight for Game of the Year a tight race. Which title keeps you hooked this year?
There's a strong chance that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will continue to dominate conversations as more players experience its captivating story. Experts estimate around 70% of the community will rally for this title as the year progresses. The blend of new updates and community support could propel it further into award discussions. Meanwhile, Deltarune might see a sustained boost in player engagement, especially with nostalgic appeals reminiscent of classics from the past. If fan theories about future chapters develop, we could witness an increased surge around its unique gameplay. Lesser-known titles like Tempest Rising may also gain traction, potentially shifting community favorites as players explore their options.
In a unique twist of fate, this yearโs gaming landscape mirrors the rise of indie music in the early 2000s. As unknown artists suddenly captured audiencesโ hearts, titles like Tempest Rising and Signalis are shining through the noise today. Just as unexpected music selections reshaped mainstream charts, these games could redefine community favorites in a tightly contested scene. What remains to be seen is whether accepted norms in the gaming world will bend under the influence of emerging talents or stick to established giants.