Our favorite video games of 2025 so far: Clair Obscur, Blue Prince, and more

Mid-Year Roundup of 10 Must-Play Titles

It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through 2025—how did that happen? If you’re like us, you’ve probably spent a good chunk of the year either doomscrolling or diving deep into video games. From battling ancient demons to exploring emotional coming-of-age stories, the first six months of the year have delivered some truly unforgettable gaming experiences.

Sure, there’s still a lot more to come—Ghost of Yotei, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and The Outer Worlds 2 are just around the corner—but before we get too far ahead, let’s take a moment to appreciate the standout titles that have already made our game-of-the-year shortlist.

Whether you’re into indie gems, massive RPGs, or something a little experimental, these 10 games have defined 2025 so far.

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🔹 1. Blue Prince

Publisher: Raw Fury
Release Date: April 2025

Let’s be honest: Blue Prince probably snuck up on most people when it dropped earlier this year. But for those who’ve played it, the buzz makes total sense. This roguelike manor-builder sucks you in with its addictive room-placing puzzle mechanics and refuses to let go. Even after spending over 100 hours wandering its endlessly mysterious halls, there’s still so much left to discover. The deeper you go, the more secrets unfold—making each new run feel fresh. If you love a game that keeps you guessing and rewards your curiosity, Blue Prince is a must-play.

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🔹 2. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Developer: Sandfall Interactive
Genre: RPG

Few games in 2025 have turned as many heads as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33—especially for a debut title from a brand-new studio. This French-made RPG hits hard with emotional storytelling, an inventive active turn-based battle system, and some truly unforgettable characters. The story dives deep into themes of grief and healing, taking players on an unpredictable journey that’s as bold as it is beautiful. The third act might be polarizing, but it’s a sign of just how ambitious this game really is.

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🔹 3. Avowed

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios

Avowed might not be the giant, sweeping Elder Scrolls alternative some expected—but it’s better off for it. What you get instead is a refined, thoughtful RPG that trims the fat and delivers a more personal, politically charged story. Built in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, its narrative explores how crises get twisted by politics, misinformation, and power. It’s a deeply resonant tale wrapped in Obsidian’s trademark storytelling flair. If you tried it and bounced off, consider giving it a second shot with fresh eyes.

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🔹 4. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Developer: Warhorse Studios
Publisher: Deep Silver

If you’re craving a sprawling RPG where every little action matters, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is your holy grail. This medieval epic doubles down on realism and immersion—right down to forging your own sword through an involved blacksmithing system. The detail is obsessive in the best way, and it’s backed by tight quest design and narrative depth. It’s the kind of game that demands your time and rewards it generously. Even if you’re not into hardcore realism, you’ll still admire the sheer craft on display here.

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🔹 5. Despelote

Developer: Julián Cordero & Sebastián Valbuena
Publisher: Panic

One of the most surprising hits of the year, Despelote might only last two hours, but it leaves a deep impression. Set in Ecuador during the country’s 2002 World Cup run, it’s a coming-of-age tale told through the eyes of a young soccer-loving boy. As you kick a ball through the city streets, you casually explore conversations, memories, and the cultural heartbeat of a nation. It’s a quietly powerful game that captures childhood like few others—and it’s currently the only title to earn a rare five-star rating from Digital Trends in 2025.

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🔹 6. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Developer: Kojima Productions

The original Death Stranding had people divided—was it a visionary masterpiece or a confusing walking sim? On the Beach answers that with confidence. This sequel refines everything, delivering a tighter, more engaging experience that still wrestles with big philosophical questions. It’s a bold meditation on connection, power, and how easily utopian ideas can be co-opted for darker agendas. Hideo Kojima once again offers a game that’s as thought-provoking as it is strange—and this time, the mechanics hit harder too.

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🔹 7. The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy

Developer: Too Kyo Games

You’ve heard of multiple endings, but The Hundred Line takes it to a whole new level with 100 full-fledged outcomes. Yes—100. From the creators of Danganronpa and Zero Escape, this visual novel/tactical hybrid is nothing short of a narrative marathon. But it’s also incredibly engaging, with endless plot twists, character arcs, and emotional payoffs. It plays out like an anime binge across multiple seasons. You may not have time for all 100 endings, but seeing the mainline paths through is worth the ride.

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🔹 8. Mario Kart World

Developer/Publisher: Nintendo

As a launch title for the new Switch 2, Mario Kart World hits the ground running—literally. It builds on the formula perfected by Mario Kart 8, but adds fresh traversal options and new game modes that make it both more accessible and more competitive. The highlight so far? Knockout Tour mode, which brings some real tension to online races. It’s already a multiplayer staple and feels like it’ll be a pillar of Nintendo’s next-gen lineup for years to come.

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🔹 9. Lost Records: Bloom and Rage

Developer: Don’t Nod

Coming from the studio behind Life is Strange, Lost Records: Bloom and Rage delivers a heartfelt story soaked in ‘90s nostalgia. It follows a group of riot grrrl teens navigating a transformative summer filled with music, trauma, and supernatural mystery. While the paranormal twist is intriguing, the game’s real power lies in its grounded character work. It’s a beautiful exploration of how our identities are shaped—through friendships, losses, and, of course, the music we cling to along the way.

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🔹 10. Rematch

Developer: Sloclap
Publisher: Kepler Interactive

No bells or whistles here—Rematch is an arcade soccer game that’s all about perfecting the fundamentals. It has a few modes, a light progression system, and that’s it. But what it lacks in flash, it makes up for in feel. The controls are tight, responsive, and just plain satisfying. It scratches the same itch as old-school arcade sports games like NFL Blitz, making it one of the most addictive pick-up-and-play games of the year so far.

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❓ FAQ: 2025 Mid-Year Gaming Wrap-Up

Q: Are there any big-name games missing from this list?

Yes! Titles like Split Fiction and Monster Hunter Wilds didn’t make the cut—not because they’re bad, but because this list focuses on what’s stood out most to us so far in terms of originality, impact, and staying power.

Q: What’s the best short game from this list?

Despelote wins hands-down. It’s only about two hours long but leaves a lasting impression.

Q: Which game is the best for casual multiplayer?

Mario Kart World and Rematch are both excellent picks for quick, casual sessions with friends.

Q: I want a long-term investment RPG. Which one should I try?

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is perfect if you want a deep, immersive experience. Avowed is great for a more streamlined but story-rich RPG.

Q: Which game surprised critics the most?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Lost Records: Bloom and Rage both exceeded expectations for new IPs.

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🏁 Conclusion: A Diverse First Half of 2025

From big-budget sequels to small experimental indies, the first half of 2025 has been nothing short of incredible. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, sinking into a deep RPG, or just kicking a ball around with friends, there’s something here that will speak to you. And with even more major releases on the horizon, it’s shaping up to be one of the best years in gaming history.

Make sure these 10 games are on your radar—because if the next six months are anything like the first, we’re in for a phenomenal ride.