Game of the Year: Aaron’s Top 5 PS5 Games of 2025

by

Each year, our writers and editors share their favorite PS5 games in individual “Game of the Year” articles. Today, video producer Aaron Bayne is sharing his top pick for 2025.

5. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

I was really surprised to find myself enjoying Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as much as I did – it actually made my top five games! I usually don’t like turn-based combat, and I especially struggle with the unique style often found in Japanese role-playing games. It’s just not my cup of tea.

I really got hooked on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. It’s hard to say exactly what it was, but the way battles unfolded in real-time felt great, and I loved how the game wasn’t afraid to get really emotional and serious, even though it also had lighter, more fun parts.

The game was crafted with incredible finesse in every aspect – from its detailed world and compelling characters to the various ways you could play, and especially its amazing music. Though it wasn’t usually the kind of game I enjoy, I was completely hooked and found it to be a truly captivating and enjoyable experience from beginning to end.

4. Split Fiction

Here’s an honest opinion: I wasn’t a huge fan of It Takes Two. While I think Hazelight has found a really successful formula with its games designed specifically for two players, I found the pacing of their latest game frustrating and parts of it were just plain dull.

A Way Out developer Hazelight has truly hit its stride with Split Fiction, seamlessly integrating all of its clever co-op ideas. This game fixes the problems I had with It Takes Two – specifically, repetitive gameplay, pacing issues, and a disappointing ending – and delivers a truly impressive experience.

As a fan, I have to say this game is incredible! It perfectly balances being thrilling, hilarious, and really pulls you in – sometimes it even makes you think! What’s amazing is how it jumps between sci-fi and fantasy, and throws all sorts of gameplay styles at you. And honestly, the ending? I was beaming! It was just a fantastic experience.

3. Elden Ring: Nightreign

I’ve spent a lot of time playing Elden Ring – over 100 hours, with much of that spent enjoying it with friends. So, a new RPG set in the Elden Ring world that focuses on cooperative gameplay seemed like the perfect fit for me.

Elden Ring: Nightreign successfully combines the complex character builds, difficult fights, and well-designed enemies of the original game, but presents it all in a quicker, more action-packed way, resulting in a very rewarding multiplayer experience.

Even after more than 60 hours of playing, I’m still really enjoying this game. Every attempt still feels challenging, and I keep discovering new things. Best of all, it’s a blast to play with friends.

2. Hell Is Us

Hell Is Us really makes you explore its world. It doesn’t hold your hand with maps or typical quests, so you’ll have to carefully observe your surroundings and solve puzzles to unravel the game’s long-running mystery.

The game has a wonderfully immersive atmosphere, and I was immediately captivated by its story. I’ve never been so engrossed in reading in-game documents or discovering the remains of characters from the past – it’s truly fascinating.

This game truly shines, not only because of its story, but also how that story unfolds through its characters, the game world itself, and the challenges you face. If you’re seeking a dark and incredibly immersive experience, I highly recommend it.

1. ARC Raiders

I was immediately drawn to ARC Raiders when I first saw it in action. It’s a combination of things – the sound design is unique and really brings the world to life, the gameplay is deliberate and engaging, reminding me of the Factions mode in The Last of Us, and it’s simply a beautiful game. All of these elements create a really exciting and captivating experience.

What I especially enjoy about ARC Raiders is how varied the multiplayer gameplay is. Sometimes I’m aggressively hunting other players for their gear, and other times I’m fighting massive ARC machines in intense battles. I’ve also preferred sneaking around to avoid conflict, just trying to make it back to base. Surprisingly, I’ve even had really positive experiences teaming up with other players – and I’ve rarely seen a game with such an active and friendly chat!

ARC Raiders really highlights how amazing immersive multiplayer games can be, and it stands out as my favorite gaming experience so far this year.

What are your thoughts on Aaron’s Game of the Year choices? Share your opinions – whether you completely agree or respectfully disagree – in the comments below.

Read More

2025-12-22 14:07