As we compiled our top 20 games of the last year, standout titles such as Civilization 7, Avowed, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Grand Theft Auto 6 were already on our radar for 2025, with one now shifted to a 2026 release. The remaining three met expectations, securing places on this yearâs list of Arsâ favorite games. They joined other eagerly awaited sequels, from blockbuster hits to indie gems, marking them as 'expected' highlights of this year.
What truly captivated me in 2025, however, were games that emerged unexpectedly. These ranged from innovative roguelike puzzle games to a unique and challenging mountainous walking simulation, the best Geometry Wars homage in recent years, and a heartfelt exploration of teenage challenges through engaging mini-games.
Anticipating 2026, the gaming industry is preparing for several high-profile projects, prominently featuring the delayed Grand Theft Auto VI. If next year resembles this one, we can anticipate more hidden gems unexpectedly advancing as new classics.
Assassinâs Creed Shadows
Ubisoft Quebec; Windows, MacOS, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, iPad
Reflecting on my younger years, I yearned for games to offer unprecedented experiences. Such aspirations were more attainable in the '90s, amid rapid advancements in gaming design and technology. Now, as a gamer in my 40s, I cherish when a game surprises me, though I no longer expect it. I have grown to appreciate games that provide a sense of comfort akin to familiar comforts, valuing them equally for originality and nostalgia.
Assassinâs Creed Shadows epitomizes this blend (as I previously noted upon its release). Adhering to a tried-and-true formula, it presents an exquisitely refined rendition. The game offers an expansive, immersive world, complemented by exceptional audio and visual presentation, catering to a wide array of play styles and skill levels.