Stacey Henley's 2025 Game of the Year

A Year of Gaming Highlights

This has been a remarkable 12-month period in the world of video games, with numerous titles making their mark from January to December. As part of HAWXTECH.NET's Game of the Year (GOTY) tradition, I've taken on the task of subjectively ranking my top ten favorites, which I present here as the "morally correct" list.

Over the years, I've written these lists since 2021, and this year is unique because it features a true multiplayer game on my list. My general disinterest in online multiplayer games has kept them from appearing on previous lists, but Rematch has managed to break through. The game blends the fast-paced action of Rocket League with football mechanics, creating an experience that's both nostalgic and exhilarating. Its ability to keep me engaged longer than most multiplayer games makes it a standout choice.

Notable Releases

Date Everything offers a unique twist where you can be hit by a rubber duck. That's all there is to it.

Hades 2 follows the success of its predecessor, which was a phenomenon in 2020. This sequel not only lives up to the expectations set by the original but also pushes the roguelike genre further. With a variety of weapons and customizable runs through boons and buffs, it provides a challenging and rewarding experience.

Dispatch is a bit of a mystery. While the gameplay elements might not be the most memorable, the acting, animation, and romantic aspects make it a standout release. Although it falls short in some areas, such as the inability to romance certain characters, it leaves a lasting impression.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is another episodic release that tells a compelling story of four outcast teenagers in the '90s and their modern-day reflections. It explores themes like social isolation and teenage friendships, though the structure could have allowed for deeper exploration of these topics.

Honorable Mentions

Several games deserve recognition:

• Despelote
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• PowerWash Simulator 2

While I didn't get the first version of PowerWash Simulator, the second one offered a unique experience with audiobooks and virtual cleaning tasks. It's a good game, but I'm still unsure about its merits.

Ball x Pit is a viral hit that combines bullet spray mechanics with a roguelike format. It offers a mix of chaos and satisfaction, with a journey that takes players through various environments, including a farming sim.

Ghost of Yotei is a triple-A title that delivers on expectations. It improves upon its predecessor, Tsushima, with more complex combat and engaging storytelling. Despite some clichéd elements, the cinematic influences make it a satisfying experience.

Dead Letter Dept. is an indie game that captivated me throughout the year. The premise involves deciphering mail to uncover a dark narrative. It builds up to a chilling climax that lingers long after the game ends.

Final Thoughts

The year 2025 has been a mixed bag for gaming. While there haven't been many standout titles at the top, there's been a deep bench of quality games. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza In Hawaii stands out as my GOTY, even though it wasn't the strongest contender. The game offers deep combat, campy pirate arenas, and enjoyable side quests. However, I've been waiting for a true GOTY to emerge, and it hasn't happened yet. Perhaps it will be found in my backlog someday.

In conclusion, 2025 has been an odd year for gaming, filled with hidden gems and unexpected delights. For me, the crown remains with Pirate Yakuza, just as one would expect from a pirate.