Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake beautifully concludes this trilogy, recapturing the retro magic of the originals while giving them a modern facelift.
While The Outer Worlds 2 doesn’t reinvent the formula, its deep role-playing systems and engaging companions offer strong replay value. The witty, if sometimes heavy-handed, writing and player-driven choices make it a worthwhile RPG despite weak combat.
Ninja Gaiden 4 marks a bold return, with fast-paced and bloody action alongside the new protagonist, Yakumo. It has fluid combat, varied weapons, and an electrifying cyberpunk Tokyo setting. While the rehashed Ryu levels and some frustrating platforming sections detract from the experience, its stylish visuals, satisfying gameplay, and solid replay value make it a standout action game in 2025.
Digimon Story: Time Stranger has a few minor hiccups, but it builds on its predecessors to deliver one of the best Digimon RPGs to date.
Despite Hollow Knight Silksong’s relentless difficulty, it’s one of the most rewarding games this year. Pharloom is a lively world with surprises waiting in every corner, and the suspenseful combat and exploration makes Hornet’s arduous journey memorable. Silksong can feel a bit unfair at times, but its challenging nature forces players to adapt and learn to be patient
Ghost of Yōtei shows exactly why the PS5 is still king of the consoles. Unless you're tired of ninja and samurai-themed stories, Ghost of Yotei is a must-play. The beautiful open-world game rewards deep exploration and features engaging, cinematic storytelling. Undoubtedly, it's one of the best games of the year.
The Claws of Awaji expansion offers plenty of new content for Assassin’s Creed Shadows and satisfyingly wraps up the cliffhanger in Naoe’s story that was hinted at the end of the base game. The expansion’s pacing with Yasuke is better, too, but it’s a shame that he didn’t get a new weapon while Naoe did. Still, Claws of Awaji is a worthy send off to two of the best Assassin’s Creed characters in recent memory.
Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion is a valiant attempt to build upon its predecessor’s successes and address the shortfalls. Its story is much more comprehensible this time around due to opting for an open-world instead of a mission-based structure.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a solid soulslike game, but it takes a while to get used to its quirks.
No Sleep for Kaname is a good spin-off for existing AI: The Somnium Files fans. While the Somnium segments haven't evolved much since their introduction in the first game, the new escape puzzle games are a welcome addition to the series. Despite a new writer taking the helm for this entry, the writing is tonally consistent and the characters are as charming as ever.
The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy is a morbidly engrossing tactics RPG that takes the right notes from Danganronpa.
The First Berserker: Khazan has some of the most balanced defensive and offensive combat systems I’ve experienced in a Soulslike game, as well as some rich progression. However, some frustrating boss mechanics, braindead AI, and puzzling mission structure hold it back from reaching its full potential.
Xenoblade Chronicles X was already one of the Wii U’s best games, and this Definitive Edition does more than enough to justify another trip to planet Mira.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak 2 makes a few missteps with the pacing of its multiversal story, but it puts a focus on quality character moments and impressive worldbuilding.
‘Sonic x Shadow Generations’ is a solid remaster with an awesome tie-in that shows a bright future for the Sonic franchise. It fixes the original game's performance problems, while the new Shadow content is fun and exciting to play.
Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake gives an NES classic the royal treatment it deserves.
‘Life is Strange: Double Exposure’ is a direct sequel to the first game that continues Max’s personal growth while providing a solid cast of new characters. However, the pacing feels rushed towards the latter half of the game and gameplay mechanics aren’t as interesting as previous entries.
It’s been a long time since Inquisition’s release in 2014, less than one year after the release of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, but Dragon Age: The Veilguard is definitely worth that wait. It offers the fun and deep character interactions that BioWare is known for, while packaging the best aspects of previous Dragon Age games into a brand new adventure. Despite a few flaws, it’s an engrossing RPG that’ll leave an impression on fans for years to come.
Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a bit of an underwhelming RPG that has some unique gameplay mechanics. The open-ended world narrative structure feels freeing, but the characters are boring. The glimmer mechanic is fun, but the battle system lacks a strategic hook. Each of its gameplay systems is a double-edged sword, as we'd find a particular aspect enticing while another was baffling. It feels like a slight step back from the other recent SaGa games, but if you're a fan of the series, Revenge of the Seven might resonate with you more than it did with us.
In many ways, Metaphor: ReFantazio feels like the next mainline entry in the Persona series in all but name. In others, it carves out an identity all its own. The strategic turn-based combat system is just as satisfying as ever, while Archetypes and globe-trotting put a new perspective on an otherwise familiar experience. I could see the plot twists coming a mile away, but the endearing cast of characters made the journey worthwhile. It’s not perfect, but Atlus has earned my vote of confidence. Consider me a follower.