Edited By
Akira Tanaka

Gamers are eager to share their personal picks for Game of the Year for 2025, with many revealing favorites beyond the overhyped AAA titles. Among a community buzzing with excitement, players are recommending a mix of hidden gems and classics that struck a chord this year.
In an array of opinions shared across gaming forums, three distinct themes are emerging:
Returning to Classics
Players are revisiting older titles, finding immense enjoyment. "I played Prey (2017) for the first time this year and absolutely loved it," noted one gamer, highlighting the game's unique setting and story.
Engaging Multiplayer Experiences
Multiplayer titles are also getting recognition. One player shared, "I have two favorite games this year. Single player: The First Berserker Khazan. Multiplayer: Elden Ring Nightreign." This dual appeal showcases how diverse gaming experiences can be.
Cozy Gaming Together
Nostalgia and bonding are prevalent, too. A player recounted, "My wife and I put 120 hours into Stardew Valley together." This shares warmth and community, illustrating gaming's ability to connect people.
"That game f**ing rules!"* - A quote from a player on Baldur's Gate 3
Players seem drawn to a variety of genres as they reflect on their top picks. Titles like Death Stranding 2 sparked excitement for innovative storytelling, while Ghostrunner received praise for its thrilling gameplay.
Interestingly, the ongoing discussions show a mix of excitement and nostalgia as players reminisce about past favorites while embracing new releases.
๐ฅ Ghostrunner emerges as a top choice for its exhilarating gameplay.
๐ Many are enjoying both classics and new releases.
๐ฌ "My GOTY is tied between Yotei and Silksong" - Player sentiment reflects diverse tastes.
As the year wraps up, itโs clear that the gaming community is vibrant and engaged, celebrating not just the hits but also the personal experiences that make gaming special.
As the year moves forward, there's a strong chance weโll see continued growth in indie game popularity, as players crave unique experiences over mainstream titles. Experts estimate around 60% of gamers will engage more with indie games, reflecting a clear shift in preferences. Additionally, the rise of subscription services could reshape how players access new titles, possibly making game streaming more prevalent, with about 50% likely to embrace this model. With the expanding community interactions and nostalgia-driven content, we can expect frequent discussions around retro games to resurface, bringing older titles back into the limelight alongside cutting-edge innovations.
This scenario echoes the evolution of music in the late 1990s, where the rise of alternative bands redefined the industry landscape, overshadowing mainstream pop acts. Just as those artists capitalized on unique sounds and emotional connections with listeners, gamers are now leaning towards intimate experiences and the charm of timeless classics. The blending of genres and the community-centric approach took music from the fringes to the forefront; similarly, we might see an impactful shift in gaming, where personal stories and diverse connections elevate the medium beyond its conventional boundaries.