The anticipation is palpable with the release of the Game Awards 2025 nominations. While every category has its merits, the spotlight shines brightest on the coveted Game of the Year award. This year, six exceptional titles have emerged, each showcasing unparalleled innovation, captivating storytelling, and experiences that resonate deeply with players. Here’s a look at the nominees for the Game of the Year 2025 and what sets each one apart as a leading contender.
Game of the Year 2025 Nominations
For a complete overview of all categories, don’t miss checking out the full list of The Game Awards 2025 Nominations linked here. Below is the full roster of nominees vying for Game of the Year.
1. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
In its sequel, Death Stranding expands Hideo Kojima’s enigmatic universe with enhanced emotional depth and a clear sense of scale. The revamped traversal and shelter systems transform journeys into meaningful adventures. With a bold storytelling approach fusing science fiction and human drama, it refines the aspects that made the original game less appealing.
For an in-depth analysis, check out our review of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and discover why it earned a spot in the GOTY 2025 nominations.
2. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Team Cherry takes the beloved Hollow Knight formula and ramps up the challenge. Silksong captivates players through a satisfying combat system that feels polished from beginning to end. The intricately designed world encourages exploration and curiosity. Hornet’s enhanced movement mechanics turn each area into a skill-testing playground, making it a benchmark for modern action platformers.
For our detailed impressions, check out our review of Hollow Knight: Silksong, where we delivered a respectable 9/10 rating.
3. Kingdom Come Deliverance II
The much-anticipated sequel to Kingdom Come Deliverance enhances its historical simulation with richer narratives and a vibrant world that feels both immersive and dynamic. The refined combat system adds depth, making each duel consequential. Quest choices matter, prompting players to think beyond immediate tasks, garnering both critical acclaim and community affection.
Delve deeper into what makes this title deserving of the GOTY 2025 nomination by checking out our Kingdom Come Deliverance II review, where we awarded a perfect score of 10.
4. Hades II
The sequel to the critically acclaimed Hades takes the original’s brisk gameplay and expands on it with new mechanics that enhance creative play styles. The writing skillfully intertwines humor and tragedy, keeping the narrative engaging. With Melinoe’s character development, the story unfolds seamlessly alongside the action, appealing to players who appreciate depth in both gameplay and storytelling.
5. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stands out with its innovative turn-based combat mechanics that emphasize timing and positioning, refreshing the genre. The painted aesthetic creates a dreamlike atmosphere that lingers in players’ minds. Characters develop through organic interactions, enriching the narrative while melding art with gameplay. The storytelling is complemented by an evocative musical experience, pushing boundaries in game design.
6. Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza has captured the hearts of players with its vibrant level designs that celebrate skillful play. The game retains the charm of classic titles while introducing clever new mechanics. A surprisingly enjoyable co-op mode has also emerged as a standout feature, allowing players to enjoy the experience together. Critics commend the game for deftly resurrecting a beloved character without falling into the nostalgia trap.
That wraps up our coverage of the Game of the Year 2025 nominations. Which title do you think deserves the highest honor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Exploring new gaming experiences can be as exciting as the awards themselves. Stay tuned for more game insights and industry updates. Check out Moyens I/O for additional content and analyses on gaming trends.