15 Best Looking Games of 2025 So Far

This generation of gaming consoles, including the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PCs, and PlayStation 5 Pro, has never been more capable of immersing us in video game worlds like never before! This year alone has delivered some truly remarkable gaming experiences that have taken full advantage of the enhanced power these platforms offer.

As a gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the delicate balance between captivating gameplay and stunning visuals. Some gamers prioritize the former, willing to overlook less-than-perfect graphics for an immersive game loop experience. On the other hand, there are those who wouldn’t hesitate to bypass even the most engaging games if the visuals fell short of their expectations. Fortunately, 2025 has catered exceptionally well to both preferences, with a plethora of titles that have redefined what modern video games can achieve in terms of graphical prowess.

Let’s delve into the fantastic visuals that have emerged as the crème de la crème in the gaming world of 2025!

#15. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

Utilizing the Dragon Engine, as seen in previous series installments, this self-contained story centered around Goro Majima showcased impressive character designs. However, it received some negative feedback due to its lighting issues and reused elements from the game titled Infinite Wealth.

Despite not being exclusive to current-generation consoles, this game managed to rank among the top graphics in 2025 because Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio prioritized smooth performance on last-gen consoles and a range of PC configurations. Their decision to maintain a consistent gaming experience across all platforms has paid off, as the game has been well-received by both players and critics.

#14. Atomfall

The uprising effectively lessened the harsh comments directed towards “Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii,” which were often criticized for lacking contemporary-gen quality, even though “Atomfall” was also released on previous-generation consoles. Nonetheless, it’s clear that “Atomfall” offers a breathtaking portrayal of the British countryside, with visually captivating landscapes, whether inside or outside your screen.

The graphics effectively complemented the limited scale of the game’s world creation, boosting enjoyment for players no matter their chosen platform. Strikingly, desolate ruins melded flawlessly with verdant environments in a tale that was both amusing and suspenseful within its post-apocalyptic narrative. It was an added bonus that the game was mostly bug-free, which further heightened the realism of the overall experience.

#13. Sniper Elite Resistance

In this list, Rebellion appears for a second time with its remarkable portrayal of Nazi-occupied France in Sniper Elite Resistance. The studio demonstrated exceptional skill yet again, delivering outstanding graphics even on last-generation platforms. This was achieved through superb lighting, intricate details, and a highly engaging kill camera that maximized the game’s strong performance and frame rates.

Despite facing criticism for resembling this year’s “Sniper Elite 5” in terms of character models, the game stands out as an impressively visual experience. Players are allowed to stalk and eliminate their objectives stealthily, offering more innovative methods to execute these takedowns over time.

#12. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

The hard work put in by Team Ninja to introduce one of their iconic games to modern gamers proved fruitful, as Ninja Gaiden 2 Black was highly acclaimed for the graphical enhancement it provided.

The remake skillfully employs Unreal Engine 5 to introduce advanced, high-definition character models, resources, Ray Tracing, Chromatic Aberration, Motion Blur, and many other features, resulting in a more modern gaming experience that sets it apart from other remakes of well-known games.

Visually and in every other aspect, this remake has earned all the acclaim it’s received since its debut.

#11. The First Berserker Khazan

Instead of playing it conservatively with their graphical presentation like FromSoftware’s Soulslikes, Neople opted for a bold approach in The First Berserker Khazan, which sets it apart from other games in the genre due to its unique art style and visuals. Its medieval European landscapes were captivating, enhanced by the 3D cel-shaded anime aesthetic that harmoniously reflected its Dungeon & Fighter inspirations.

Khazan’s voyage through the Pell Los Empire offered an aesthetically pleasing spectacle, and the robust battle system added to its appeal, making it one of the most thrilling adventures in various aspects this year.

#10. Monster Hunter Wilds

The developer made certain that transitioning from the MT Framework to the RE Engine resulted in an exceptional visual experience. Although there were initial worries about the first open-world beta of Monster Hunter Wilds, the studio promptly addressed any issues and launched a game that has set a new standard for graphically demanding open-world titles.

The diverse landscapes in Monster Hunter Wilds showcase intricate detail, with a living, breathing atmosphere brought about by a changing weather system. From grazing herds to wind-interacting dust particles, and incredibly lifelike lightning and rain effects, this game maximizes the potential of current-gen systems to offer an immersive and significantly enhanced experience compared to previous versions.

#9. F1 25

In its most recent release, the F1 series is highly praised for surpassing its previous version. This new edition skillfully employs Lidar technology to create incredibly detailed replicas of the actual 2025 F1 World Championship tracks, offering a breathtaking level of realism throughout.

Racing on circuits such as Zandvoort, Bahrain, Melbourne, and numerous others has never felt more genuine and immersive due to Codemasters’ remarkable work in crafting an experience that places you behind the wheel, allowing you to compete alongside your favorite drivers in a game that seamlessly blends reality with digital simulation.

#8. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth PC

As a gamer, I can vouch that this revamped 1997 gem shines just as brightly on my PC setup as it does on the PS5. The continued escapades of Cloud Strife post-Rebirth are nothing short of breathtaking, boasting outstanding visuals that are supported by a rock-solid performance.

The enhanced lighting and textures breathe life into the Grasslands following an introduction depicting the devastated Midgar. This adventure not only improves upon its predecessor but also effectively utilizes Nvidia’s DLSS technology to maintain a top-notch frame rate, offering stunning visual quality throughout.

This is one of those games that must be seen to be believed.

#7. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 PC

Navigating through the vibrant streets of Marvel and Insomniac’s interpretation of New York City has never been more exhilarating, with Spider-Man (either Peter Parker or Miles Morales) mirrored in each gleaming window as they dash swiftly across the city to reach the next crime they aim to prevent.

In this version of the game, initially only available on PlayStation 5, that’s been adapted for PC, you’ll witness a stunning visual display. The application of Ray Tracing in the urban landscape and interior structures is raised to unprecedented levels.

Incorporating compatibility for ultra-wide screens, Insomniac fine-tuned some initial issues to deliver a breathtaking superhero landing in terms of graphics for their action-packed adventure. This way, it could run smoothly on numerous PC configurations, thanks to adjustable settings that highlighted the stunning grandeur of its key scenes, while also enhancing quieter moments for greater impact.

#6. The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

As a dedicated fan, I couldn’t contain my excitement when Bethesda secretly released the remake of their 2006 classic on the exact day it was announced. The stunning makeover by Cryodill using Unreal Engine 5 instantly grabbed everyone’s attention, with its upgraded textures, enhanced character models, and the impressive impact of Ray Tracing in the game’s new form.

The graphical upgrades, along with gameplay adjustments, significantly enlivened “Oblivion,” enhancing aspects important to players. Hats off to Virtuos for skillfully executing a visual makeover, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining loyalty to the cherished classic that influenced their recent project.

#5. Kingdom Come Deliverance II

In the sequel to “Kingdom Come: Deliverance,” you’ll find a significant enhancement in graphics compared to the original game, creating a stunningly beautiful visual experience. The Kingdom of Bohemia has never appeared more pristine, and it seems almost bug-free in this new edition.

Using advanced features like DLSS and FSR upscaling, Ray Tracing, enhanced shadows, and numerous other graphical enhancements, this game breathes life into its landscapes and castles in a way that perfectly complements the epic journey it promises. If you can overlook the seemingly indestructible nature of its adversaries, what remains is nothing short of a visual marvel.

#4. Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Despite the frustrating wait for “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” its portrayal of ancient Japan left players awestruck with its visual splendor. This game compels you to pause and appreciate the stunning scenery.

Breathtaking landscapes, swaying gently under a light breeze, were the backdrop as we sped through verdant fields and bustling cities, with Naoe and Yasuke at our side. Japan’s thick woodlands weren’t merely scenic; they compelled us to devise creative routes to reach our goal in this game that boasts a rejuvenated Anvil engine, significantly enhancing the realistic weather system and thereby influencing the main mechanics of play in a way that has revitalized the once-stagnant franchise.

We’re eagerly anticipating the journey ahead for the Assassins, if the stunning visuals from ‘Shadows’ serve as a hint of what’s to come in the series.

#3. DOOM: The Dark Ages

Boasting stunning graphics enhanced by the latest Path Tracing upgrade, Doom The Dark Ages serves as a testament to the remarkable strides made in recent years by modern technology, enabling it to deliver immersive experiences that once seemed unattainable.

The game swiftly overcomes its enhanced enemy population due to the clever application of contemporary elements such as DLSS and built-in Ray Tracing compatibility, making combat a fluid, silky experience. However, be mindful that the Path Tracing update may strain your graphics cards when you engage in intense battles with the updated combat system’s swarms of enemies.

#2. Clair Obscur: Expedition

Sandfall Interactive’s blockbuster success showcases breathtaking graphics, vividly animating the diverse landscapes and settings of Lumiere into a captivating journey where film-like aesthetics intertwine seamlessly with an engaging and absorbing gameplay experience.

In a stunning display of realism, every figure on your screen seems as if they could step out from the game into reality. Remarkably, throughout its playtime, you’ll encounter minimal technical issues – a feat that deserves recognition. Whether you traverse vast landscapes or fly through the skies in its advanced stages, Clair Obscur: Expedition truly embodies the artistic technique it is named for, masterfully blending light and shadow to enhance the engaging narrative it presents.

#1. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Sam Porter’s attempts to incorporate Mexico and Australia into the Chiral Network are nothing less than an impressive artistic achievement. The efforts made by Kojima Productions to further the success of Death Stranding can be seen in every raindrop that descends from the heavens, and in each gust of wind that raises dust particles as they travel across a broadened frontier, now larger in terms of size, range, and graphical quality.

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but express my awe at how Death Stranding 2 transcends the limits of what games can aspire to achieve in terms of immersive visuals. The game’s diverse landscapes pulsate with life, demonstrating not just the Decima engine’s power, but also the brilliance of the team that brought this captivating experience to life.

The effective integration of novel gameplay features and narrative points effectively encourages players to revisit this captivating universe repeatedly.

We’re eagerly anticipating more surprises from this year, but it looks like the competition for visually stunning releases in 2025 might be quite tough!

2025-07-15 16:43