Why 2025 Was an Amazing Year for Gaming

In an alternate timeline, 2025's year-in-review for gaming would revolve around one game: GTA VI. 

From IMDB

Unfortunately (or, in hindsight, fortunately), fate had other plans. 

With Rockstar’s juggernaut delayed to 2026, 2025 became a banner year that let a diverse lineup of titles step into the spotlight. Developers across genres took creative risks that paid off, benefiting gamers: from cinematic adventures to heartfelt indies and fresh co-op experiences, there was truly something for every kind of player. It wasn’t just a good year for gaming—it was proof that innovation still thrives when studios are given the breathing room to shine.

And for anyone looking to play these titles the way they were meant to be experienced, you can find the best gaming gadgets and accessories over on the Next Upgrade Shop.

A Year of Variety and Vision

Few years have showcased such depth across genres the way 2025 did. 

From Expedition 33

Take Clair Obscur: 33, a stunning blend of art and emotion that blurred the line between visual storytelling and interactive design. It proved that games can be both beautiful and meaningful—a true testament to the medium’s artistic evolution.

From IGDB

Meanwhile, Ghost of Yōtei delivered a cinematic action experience that rivaled blockbuster films. Its snow-dusted landscapes and tight sword combat reminded everyone why single-player epics still hold a powerful place in gaming’s heart.

From IGDB

Co-op gaming made a triumphant comeback, too. Split Fiction gave friends a reason to team up again, fusing clever storytelling with puzzle mechanics that demanded real communication. It wasn’t just about shared objectives—it was about shared moments of discovery.

From IGDB

Multiplayer fans also got their fix with ARC Raiders, a polished, adrenaline-fueled experience that redefined what free-to-play team shooters could be. After years of fatigue from live-service grinds, ARC Raiders felt refreshing—a reminder that pure fun can still be the focus.

From IGDB

On the indie front, Hades II and Hollow Knight: Silksong dominated conversations. Both sequels managed the near-impossible feat of honoring their predecessors while advancing their worlds. Hades II expanded on its mythological roots with richer storytelling and refined gameplay, while Silksong offered fluid combat and a haunting world that begged for exploration. 

From IGDB

Games like Blue Prince continued the indie wave, earning praise for its clever design and narrative experimentation—proof that smaller teams still deliver some of the biggest emotional payoffs.

From IGDB

And then there were the feel-good hits—the kind of titles that reminded us gaming isn’t always about epic battles or deep narratives. Donkey Kong Bananza, one of the standout releases for the Nintendo Switch 2, captured that spirit of pure, unfiltered fun. Its bright visuals and creative platforming brought players of all ages together, showing that sometimes, joy itself is the goal.

Looking back, 2025 was a rare year where nearly every corner of gaming had a hit to call its own. From the artistry of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 to the cooperative brilliance of Split Fiction, and the indie magic of Hades II, Silksong, and Blue Prince, this was a year that celebrated creativity over hype. And as the industry gears up for GTA VI in 2026, one thing is certain—2025 will be remembered as the year that proved gaming doesn’t need a single blockbuster to shine.

Gear up for 2026 with Next Upgrade Shop

So whether you’re conquering boss fights or just swinging through Donkey Kong Bananza, make sure your setup is ready to keep up with the best—with the latest monitors, peripherals, and accessories from the Next Upgrade Shop.