5 Most Underrated Games of 2025 So Far

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In 2025, the spotlight was seized by numerous blockbusters such as the Ghost of Yotei and Monster Hunter: Wilds. Yet, it’s not just mainstream games that can be great. Many underrated gems, often overlooked by gamers, offer equally thrilling experiences. Sadly, these often fade into obscurity.

For this year alone, there have been some fantastic and overlooked indie and fantasy game releases that you shouldn’t miss out on. Here, we’ve compiled a list of five underrated games from 2025, including a captivating fantasy sports project by the creators of Sifu, as well as an intriguing sea adventure set within the beloved Yakuza universe. These are some of the year’s best-kept secrets you won’t want to miss!

AI LIMIT

User reviews for the game “AI Limit” show a high level of positivity at 92%. However, critics and blog reviews have offered mixed scores. Although opinions may vary, it’s clear that the game is somewhat underappreciated.

In simpler terms, “AI Limit” is an action game similar to Soulslike series, set in a post-apocalyptic world. It’s equipped with a variety of weapons, and the gameplay includes evasive maneuvers, parrying, and unique attacks. However, what truly stands out about “AI Limit” is its captivating environment and challenging boss battles.

The leaders in this game are intricately crafted, packed with numerous strategies, and boast stunning arenas and visual effects for attacks that make them a sight to behold. There’s a touch of anime style in the graphics, reminiscent of Code Vein, and while AI Limit does have some drawbacks, like a limited world design, it’s still beautiful, challenging, and hard to put down. In all honesty, it’s one of the best and most underappreciated indie Soulslikes from 2025.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

In the array of storylines the Yakuza series has delved into throughout its existence, none have been more surprising than Majima transforming into a pirate. After losing his memories and assembling a crew, he now navigates the oceans as a seafaring pirate. This is pure Yakuza storytelling at its finest. However, some individuals might perceive Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza set in Hawaii as not essential to the broader narrative of the Yakuza series. Others may view it as a spin-off game from a popular franchise and thus have little interest in it. If they were to overlook this game, though, it would be a real missed opportunity since it’s truly exceptional.

As a devoted gaming enthusiast, let me share my thoughts on “Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.” This game boasts one of the wittiest protagonists ever created, and its combative sequences are nothing short of breathtaking! What sets it apart is its unique beat ’em up style, reminiscent of the iconic Yakuza series. Players have an exciting choice between two combat styles. The first is a swift, intense melee approach, while the second allows Majima to wield dual cutlasses and pistols, adding a touch of pirate flair to the action!

In addition to featuring pirate-themed yakuza in Hawaii, this game also introduces innovative naval combat. You can set sail, engage enemy vessels, and subsequently invade them. Given the pirate theme, this aspect is quite fitting. It’s worth noting that the game, along with the entire Yakuza series, is often overlooked. The series boasts a dozen games, each of which is worth exploring. However, given the release of Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, now might be an ideal time to join the fray as it offers a welcoming and accessible entry point into the game for newcomers.

Atomfall

As I stir from a puzzling slumber amidst the Windscale plant, post a chilling nuclear incident, my memory blank as a foggy morning. Stepping outside, I’m greeted by a vibrant, verdant landscape dotted with captivating locales – Bandit hideouts, alien nestings, and colossal tornadoes loom in the panorama of Atomfall’s expansive world. The ambiance is enchanting, yet Atomfall remains underestimated by many.

In the game called Atomfall, there’s an engaging storyline and exciting gameplay that keeps you hooked. You have the freedom to explore the vast open world at your own pace, with minimal guidance from markers or tutorials. Encounters with enemies demand careful strategy, and exploration yields unique weapons or encounters with strange non-player characters. The game is highly praised as one of the top survival action titles of 2025, so missing out on playing it would be a missed opportunity.

Rematch

In a shift from their original single-player martial arts game “Sifu”, the creators have developed a new multiplayer title called Rematch, which revolves around fantasy football. This genre leap might seem unexpected, but Sloclap has managed to make it work seamlessly. Unlike traditional football, Rematch offers an unusual twist: there’s no designated goalkeeper. Instead, the player closest to the penalty area takes on this role temporarily. However, this setup also means that any player can leave the penalty area, switch roles, and even attempt to score a goal themselves, adding a unique dynamic to gameplay.

Additionally, the team setup in this game allows for a minimum of three and a maximum of five players. Each participant manages a solitary character within the game, leading to an open, individual competition on the field. In essence, Rematch resembles an action-packed football game conceptually. While it’s undeniably entertaining, it does have some rough spots that need polishing.

The new game, Rematch, was just released, but lacks some convenience features which have resulted in a mix of opinions. Despite this, at only $30, and with updates planned, it’s clear that Rematch is one of the most underestimated games of 2025 if you consider its average ratings. In truth, this game is an incredible experience and has attracted a huge number of players. So, for those who are hesitant, I highly recommend giving Rematch a try – it’s definitely worth your time and money.

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist

One of the overlooked standouts from 2025, Ender Magnolia: Blossoming in the Fog, might initially seem like a simple 2D side-scrolling game. However, don’t be deceived by first impressions. This game boasts captivating landscapes, an immersive ambiance, and pulse-pounding action sequences. Ender Magnolia offers a rich narrative experience that revolves around an amnesiac protagonist who develops bonds with machines, using them to engage in combat against other machines. The plot unfolds as you uncover your past and the reasons behind the machines’ hostility towards civilians.

Instead of that, the fighting adopts a swift and action-packed brawler approach. Each robot you control possesses unique melee, ranged, and area-of-effect abilities. By strategically combining these skills, you can craft exciting custom combos. While Ender Magnolia may not boast the largest budget, its inventiveness in game design is far from being affected by this. If you’re searching for a comparison, consider Ender Magnolia as the indie gaming world’s equivalent to Clair Obscur. Both remarkable games were crafted by small teams that left an indelible mark on the gaming world.

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2025-07-17 21:43