Despite a few disappointing games, this year was fantastic for video games. Single-player games, in particular, continued to innovate and impress. While some titles were huge hits, others found success more subtly, but were still incredibly fun to play.
We want to highlight some fantastic games that you might have missed. We’re showcasing titles we think deserve your attention, and we’re confident you’ll discover a new favorite! These games offer something for everyone.
1. Blue Prince
Okay, so this game is seriously different – the whole setup is pretty wild, but in a good way! It’s packed with puzzles and adventure stuff that really made me think. Honestly, it didn’t get enough attention when it came out, especially with all the big titles that year. But exploring Mt. Holly Estate with Simon P. Jones and uncovering the story behind it was an experience I won’t forget. It’s a real hidden gem!
If you love a good challenge and like to completely finish everything you start, this game will keep you entertained for a long time.
2. Dispatch
Even superheroes can find it tough to switch from action-packed field work to a regular desk job. That’s exactly what Mecha Man, also known as Robert Robinson III, is going through. Now, he’s managing a team of former supervillains, and this unusual situation makes for a heartwarming and delightful story.
The fantastic voice acting really makes this game shine. Dispatch grabs you from the start and keeps you hooked with meaningful choices that lead to different outcomes, making it a game you’ll want to play again. It’s a game I happily recommend.
3. Tormented Souls 2
Caroline Walker – or Emma, if you played the first game – keeps finding herself in difficult situations. This new installment improves on what made the original good, and tells a dark and unsettling story about a cult determined to carry on the sinister goals of Noah.
Caroline isn’t the type to passively wait for things to happen, so you’ll find yourself on edge as you explore creepy corridors and perilous locations. This is a fantastic horror game that cleverly revives classic elements of the genre with a modern flair.
4. Keeper
Most games don’t feature a walking lighthouse, and Keeper offers players a truly unique experience. As the lighthouse, you’re accompanied by Twig, and the heartwarming story focuses on the bond they share while working together to save their home from a growing threat.
The game’s unusual story allows for incredibly creative level design, and exploring its world is challenging. However, it’s an experience that’s absolutely rewarding.
5. Atomfall
Atomfall’s combination of action, survival, and dark humor really stood out. Set in a radioactive, post-apocalyptic Britain, the game is surprisingly funny despite its bleak setting, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time with it.
The main story is truly captivating, making this game a satisfying experience. Plus, the optional content features exceptionally well-written material. If you enjoy discovering hidden secrets and completing every quest, you’ll find this world incredibly rewarding.
6. Cronos: The New Dawn
Bloober Team proved their skill in horror games with a thrilling adventure where you manipulate time to survive. Playing as the Traveller, you’ll feel the emptiness of the world with every move, and the enemies are so aggressive and wild that even accurate shots might not be enough to take them down.
Surviving in this harsh world demands resourcefulness, allowing you to cleverly outmaneuver opponents through smart tactics, strategy, and accurate shooting. It’s a challenging but exciting experience that unfolds at a deliberate pace.
7. Hell is Us
It’s difficult to explain what makes a mysterious world so captivating, especially one that only rewards truly dedicated players. However, Hell is Us manages to do exactly that, and you’ll likely find yourself taking frantic notes just to fully appreciate everything the game offers.
The game might feel a little confusing at first, but the story and battles quickly draw you in. If you enjoy exploring and discovering hidden details, you’ll find a lot to love about how this game showcases its strengths.
8. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
Okay, so I just finished Joe Musashi, and honestly, it’s awesome! It’s super fast-paced and looks really slick. The story doesn’t drag at all – you’re constantly unlocking new moves and ways to beat up enemies in this 2D platformer. Playing as Musashi feels incredible, he’s so agile, and the whole thing is high-stakes – it’s literally life or death, with a really satisfying revenge plot thrown in. It’s exactly the kind of shinobi adventure I was hoping for – all the best parts, dialed up to eleven!
Prepare for intense battles against a wide range of enemies, including the ENE’s soldiers, mythical creatures, demons, and powerful bosses.
9. Echoes of the End
Echoes of the End had a rocky start, but the developers at Myrkur Games have quickly released a free update that addresses many of the initial problems. This enhanced edition makes the game much more appealing.
The fighting in this game is now really solid, and the story picks up with some fantastic scenes later on. It’s worth playing through – you’ll likely become very interested in what happens.
10. The Rogue Prince of Persia
If you enjoy roguelite games, you’ll likely have fun with this title. You play as a Prince escaping an army of possessed soldiers, and the game offers several hours of exploration through cleverly designed levels with interesting gameplay mechanics.
Evil Empire successfully recreates the style and gameplay of classic Prince of Persia games, and it’s well worth playing. Its recent release on the Nintendo Switch should also bring it the attention it deserves.
11. Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound
This exciting action game, a spin-off from the well-known Ninja Gaiden series, is easily one of the best of the year. It tells the story of Kenji Mozu, who steps up to protect the Hayabusa village from demons while the legendary Ryu Hayabusa is away in America, and it’s a really fun addition to the Ninja Gaiden world.
The game is really fun to play, with smooth fighting and tricky platforming sections. If you enjoy action-packed games where combat is key, this is a fantastic option.
12. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
If you enjoy Souls-like games, definitely give this one from Leenshee Games a try. The story follows Bai Wuchang as she attempts to rescue her sister, but soon uncovers a dark mystery unfolding within a crumbling empire.
The game’s foundation creates exciting battles that really put your quick reactions and adaptability to the test. Combat feels like a true skill, and you have plenty of options to create dramatic, action-packed moments. Be prepared for a tough but incredibly thrilling experience.
13. Shadow Labyrinth
Bandai Namco’s updated version of this beloved character was surprisingly fun, quickly overcoming our doubts. The combination of the swordsman and Puck creates a dynamic partnership as they explore a dangerous world, revealing fascinating details about its past and the people who inhabit it.
Okay, so I’ve been playing Shadow Labyrinth, and let me tell you, it’s tough! The enemies and how everything works really make you think. It’s the kind of game where you’re constantly scanning for something you overlooked, and if you want to find everything, prepare to spend some serious time with it. It’s a real time sink if you’re a completionist like me!
14. Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream
This story is emotionally powerful, and though it can be challenging to experience, Hanna’s determined quest to save her brother – and the interesting characters she encounters – make it a standout, hidden treasure of 2025.
This game offers fantastic stealth gameplay where hiding in the shadows is key to success. You’ll play as a young orphan and experience a story that emphasizes the power of remaining undetected. If you love stealth games, you won’t want to miss this one!
15. Steel Seed
As a fan, I’m really enjoying Steel Seed! It’s got everything I love – sneaking around, cool platforming, and a really interesting, dark sci-fi setting. Plus, I genuinely care about the main character and their companion. Even though some critics weren’t totally on board, the story and how well the world is built are enough to get me completely hooked.
I instantly loved Zoe! She’s got this great mix of attitude and sincerity that just draws you in, and she’s really cool to play as, especially with all her awesome weapons. The game isn’t super long, but honestly, it’s packed with charm and I definitely think it’s worth experiencing her story of redemption.
That concludes our list of fantastic single-player games you may not have discovered this year. We’re excited to see what great games 2026 and the future hold!
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2025-12-16 21:47