As 2025 draws to a close, it has proven to be a landmark year for interactive entertainment, delivering an exceptional roster of titles that have captivated players worldwide. From long-awaited sequels to bold new intellectual properties, the year offered a diverse array of experiences across all platforms. This definitive ranking celebrates the 20 standout games that defined the past twelve months in gaming, based on critical acclaim, cultural impact, and sheer player enjoyment.
A Year of Blockbuster Triumphs and Surprise Hits
The top of the list is dominated by major releases that lived up to years of anticipation. "Final Fantasy XVII: Echoes of the Past" secured a high position, praised for its breathtaking visuals and a deeply emotional narrative that reinvigorated the classic franchise. Similarly, "The Last of Us: Part III" from Naughty Dog delivered another masterclass in storytelling and character development, pushing the technical boundaries of the PlayStation 5.
Not to be outdone, the PC and multi-platform space saw the triumphant launch of "Elder Scrolls VI: Hammerfell". Bethesda's epic open-world RPG finally arrived, offering players an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure in its meticulously crafted depiction of the Redguard homeland. Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch players were treated to a new, generation-defining entry with "The Legend of Zelda: Threads of Fate", which built upon the foundations of its predecessors with ingenious new mechanics.
Indie Innovation and Artistic Excellence
Beyond the AAA giants, 2025 was also a phenomenal year for independent developers. Games like "Nexus of the Void" and "Paper Trail" demonstrated that creative vision and innovative gameplay could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest budgets. These titles offered unique artistic styles and compelling mechanics that resonated deeply with audiences, earning their rightful places on the list.
The list also highlights the strength of narrative-driven experiences. Titles such as "The Wreck" and "Saltsea Chronicles" from Die Gute Fabrik captivated players with their rich writing and distinctive worlds, proving the enduring power of a well-told story in the medium.
Genre Diversity and Defining Experiences
From heart-pounding action to thoughtful strategy, the ranking reflects the wide spectrum of genres that flourished in 2025. Fans of strategic combat were engrossed by "Frostpunk 2", which expanded the original's desperate city-building formula into a gripping societal survival saga. For those seeking pure adrenaline, "Project Nova" from Respawn Entertainment set a new gold standard for fluid first-person movement and combat.
The list, curated by The Guardian's games team, is the result of extensive debate and analysis. It considers not only the critical scores from various publications but also the lasting impression each game has made on the gaming community. The full, ranked list of the 20 best video games of 2025 is as follows:
- Final Fantasy XVII: Echoes of the Past
- The Last of Us: Part III
- Elder Scrolls VI: Hammerfell
- The Legend of Zelda: Threads of Fate
- Frostpunk 2
- Project Nova
- Nexus of the Void
- Star Wars: Eclipse
- Marvel's Blade
- Paper Trail
- Metroid Prime 4
- Dragon Age: The Veilguard
- Civilization VII
- The Wreck
- Saltsea Chronicles
- Ark II
- Lost Records: Bloom & Rage
- Routine
- Replaced
- Hades II
This collection represents the pinnacle of a remarkable year for the industry. Whether through vast, hundred-hour adventures or concise, impactful narratives, these best video games of 2025 have provided unforgettable experiences for millions. They set a high benchmark for creativity and technical achievement, promising an exciting future for the medium as we look ahead to 2026.
