8Bit/Digi

Our Favorite Games of 2025

As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back at our favorite games of 2025. These are the titles that stood out for their outstanding experience, pushing gaming to its limit or we just played it for four hours straight. Regardless of the reason, they are a representation of the video games that defined the year for us.

Please note that this list only includes games we have reviewed. If a game you liked isn’t here even though it was great, it’s because we didn’t review it.

Here are the games we enjoyed playing in 2025:

10. Neon Inferno

Neon Inferno has the hallmarks of a classic ’90s side-scroller while still feeling like a modern game. Its story and visual design carry familiar echoes of that era. The overall experience has been polished to deliver a consistently fun adventure. Making it an experience you will enjoy with a friend, regardless if you grew up playing such games.

9. The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II builds upon its predecessor while continuing Van Arkride’s story. Players return to the Calvard Republic for an adventure that enhances every aspect of the experience. The classic turn-based combat remains, while the refined real-time combat is now a more viable option. With a strong story, new characters, and the return of familiar heroes, the game delivers an engaging adventure.

8. Super Robot Wars Y

Super Robot Wars Y is a love letter to mecha in the form of a game featuring some of the most iconic characters of the genre. This is a game best suited for fans who already enjoy mecha and recognize at least three of their favorite series in the roster. Its story feels like pure fan fiction in all the right ways, while the overall experience celebrates the genre’s legendary heroes and villains. Be warned, it may inspire you to dive into other mecha series afterward.

7. MARVEL Cosmic Invasion

The Marvel Universe has shone favorably upon us again, offering up its lovely IP to the great beat ‘em up genre once more, and we have been blessed. This game reminds me of the arcade heyday, when we had Captain America and the Avengers, The Punisher, or one of the best to ever do it, X-Men. This time, however, there’s no need to focus on a specific team, as an impressive array of heroes from all across their comics have gathered to battle a dangerous threat from outer space, taking on corrupted friends and foes, in MARVEL Cosmic Invasion.

6. Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion

Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion is a radical departure from its predecessor, yet it allows the series to forge a distinct identity moving forward. It’s a direct sequel, yet the lore is set far enough apart that new fans can easily jump in. The mech genre remains the foundation of the gameplay, though it has been radically altered while keeping the intense combat. Players can explore the Blue Planet and engage in battles solo or with a friend without any drop in quality. Overall, the game strikes a strong balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for returning fans.

5. Shuten Order

Shuten Order is another masterpiece that exemplifies Too Kyo Games signature blend of mystery and innovation with a unique style. It immediately captures your attention with its visuals while holding you captive with a thrilling, suspenseful mystery. The experience is anchored by a strong narrative foundation and a memorable cast of characters who bring depth to the story. Uniquely, the game blends five distinct genres, from horror survival to romance adventures, ensuring diverse gameplay while remaining approachable to both newcomers and genre veterans alike.

4. Total Chaos

Total Chaos is not just a mod that became a full experience; it’s a horror survival that knows how to have an atmospheric experience. Its plot carefully drip feeds lore without revealing too much, leaving room for interpretation. It delivers every key element of a strong horror game while avoiding the mechanics I tend to despise. There’s a careful balance between solid combat and lingering unease, constantly pushing you to question what’s happening around you. That tension is further amplified by Akira Yamaoka’s soundtrack, which reinforces the dread at every step.

3. Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater

Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater is a remake that updates the technical aspects of a masterpiece while preserving its defining story and themes. At its core, it’s still the story of a patriot who is forged in a trial by fire and emerges as the legendary Big Boss. This sets the groundwork for the eventual clash of ideas over the interpretation of a mentor’s will, which becomes the cornerstone of the Metal Gear series. As a game, it’s a reminder of why Snake Eater’s narrative is still hailed as one of the best in the medium.

2. Monster Hunter Wilds

Fans who have waited patiently for the next entry will be delighted to know that Monster Hunter Wilds was well worth the wait. It takes players on a thrilling adventure into a world teeming with monsters and excitement. From the very start, you’re thrust into the action as your adventure in the Forbidden Lands begins. You will encounter a variety of dangerous and ferocious monsters while being supported by a cast of memorable characters. You can enjoy the adventure with friends or go solo – it’s up to you.

1. The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy-

The Hundred Line -Last Defense Academy- uses a familiar foundation to deliver an unforgettable experience that is rich in suspense and thrills. Kazutaka Kodaka and Kotaro Uchikoshi bring everything they’ve learned about storytelling to a combat-heavy experience. The result is a thrilling blend of visual novel with JRPG elements and is also rich with callbacks to the Danganronpa series.

What do you think of our selection, was there a game that should have been our “Best Games of 2025” list? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.