GOTY 2025 | Gamers Weigh In on Best Picks
Edited By
Darius Kingston
As 2025 draws closer to its end, a hot debate is igniting among gamers across forums about which title should claim the title of Game of the Year (GOTY). Major contenders include Expedition 33, Death Stranding 2, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and more as players passionately defend their favorites.
Growing Competition and User Sentiment
This year boasts a deeper competitive field than previous years. With titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Dying Light: The Beast, users are increasingly vocal about their preferences and predictions.
"My vote is for Death Stranding 2. Both games are fantastic with amazing stories," one passionate gamer stated. Enthusiasm is high, as another user added, "E33 will likely take it, but I personally enjoyed DS2 more."
Interestingly, Dying Light: The Beast is facing skepticism, as many believe it lacks the reviews needed for a nomination. "It's just too low on Metacritic," remarked one user, emphasizing the game's challenges in gaining solid ground.
Notable Titles Missing?
Several notable mentions have emerged amidst the discussion. Donkey Kong: Bananza, Clair Obscur, and Hades 2 have drawn attention, and many users argued they should be recognized:
"I think DK: Bananza absolutely should be on this list."
"Hades 2 is a must-nominee; it’s too good not to get recognized."
Moreover, players continue to share lesser-known favorites, with titles like Abiotic Factor making waves. "In a normal year, these would be impossible to beat," one gamer reflected.
The Players Say it All
User opinions provide fascinating insights into the ongoing competition and unrecognized gems:
"Honestly couldn’t agree with this list more."
A sentiment echoed by many reflecting community motivation around these games.
With release dates of potential contenders approaching, gamers are buzzing about will emerge as the frontrunner. Can any last-minute releases shake up the GOTY discussion, or will popular choices hold their ground?
Key Takeaways
🕹️ Major contenders include Expedition 33, Death Stranding 2, and Hollow Knight: Silksong.
🌟 Player favorites show a mixed sentiment with skepticism about Dying Light: The Beast.
🏆 Hades 2 and Donkey Kong: Bananza gain traction as possible nominees.
As discussions heat up, many await the final verdict. Will community sentiment sway the voters or will critical reviews dictate the winner? Stay tuned to witness how this competitive gaming year unfolds.
What Lies Ahead for GOTY?
There's a strong indication that Death Stranding 2 could secure the Game of the Year title, driven by its profound storytelling and existing fanbase. Experts estimate around a 45% chance for this title, mainly due to its critical acclaim and player engagement. Expedition 33 follows closely, holding about a 35% probability, thanks to its innovative gameplay and fresh appeal. Meanwhile, skepticism surrounding Dying Light: The Beast could limit its chances to less than 10%, as player sentiments lean heavily against it due to weak reviews. The upcoming weeks, especially with any last-minute releases, might shake things up, but unless something extraordinary hits the market, the top contenders seem set.
A Case of Unexpected Turnarounds
Looking back at 2008, the launch of Fallout 3 provides a striking parallel. Widely misunderstood during its initial discussions, it faced heavy criticism. However, as time progressed, player feedback and community support propelled it to a cult classic status, eventually winning awards that didn't seem achievable at launch. Much like the current GOTY race, where lesser-known titles like Abiotic Factor resonate with passionate communities but struggle for recognition, this history lesson serves as a reminder that today’s underdogs can become tomorrow’s champions if given the chance.