In 2025, the video game sector underwent a remarkable and somewhat atypical year. Although it was devoid of significant first-party launches from PlayStation and Xbox, Nintendo made a splash with the debut of the Switch 2. Nevertheless, the most buzzed-about title was a Japanese RPG crafted in France. The year also ushered in a surge of soccer games, non-French RPGs, solo journeys, and highly anticipated indie follow-ups.

Here are Mashable’s leading video game selections for 2025:

**Trails in the Sky: 1st Chapter**
The year highlighted the enduring Trails series, a set of turn-based RPGs featuring intertwining stories. A remake of the initial installment, Trails in the Sky, was unveiled, serving as an exceptional introduction with its distinctive combat and narrative.

**Death Stranding 2: On the Beach**
Hideo Kojima’s follow-up enhanced its predecessor with more player-friendly features while maintaining its eccentric allure. The game showcased pizza-themed martial arts, a talking doll sidekick, and an unforgettable performance by Norman Reedus.

**Mario Kart World**
A Switch 2 exclusive, Mario Kart World sparked debates with its frenzied layout and Knockout Tour mode. In spite of some backlash, it provided an enjoyable racing experience without demanding constant focus.

**Despelote**
This first-person narrative journey set in early 2000s Ecuador encapsulated the spirit of childhood and soccer. Its surreal settings and cultural emphasis made it a distinctive title.

**Donkey Kong Bananza**
A Switch 2 exclusive, this 3D platformer reintroduced Donkey Kong with a revamped design and a new ally, Pauline. The game prioritized destructible environments and presented a unique gameplay experience.

**Ghost of Yotei**
PlayStation’s open-world samurai adventure dazzled with its quest structure and world-building. The game reimagined the genre with its seamless side quests and exploration.

**Hades II**
Though not as revolutionary as its predecessor, Hades II still provided exhilarating gameplay with superb artistic direction and combat systems. The introduction of a second path added diversity to the experience.

**Baby Steps**
Bennett Foddy’s physics-based movement title pushed players with its intent-driven mechanics. Its quirky essence and social media traction guaranteed its enduring significance.

**Metroid Prime 4: Beyond**
After years of buildup, Metroid Prime 4 offered a visually breathtaking and immersive adventure. It affirmed the series’ significance in a contemporary context, notwithstanding pre-release debates.

**Honorable Mention: Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition**
This remastered version of a Wii U classic provided an expansive open-world RPG experience with thoughtfully crafted environments and an impressive scale progression.

**Honorable Mention: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33**
A French-developed JRPG, Clair Obscur blended turn-based combat with real-time elements. Its distinctive aesthetic and captivating gameplay rendered it a notable title, despite varied opinions about its narrative.