In our compilation of the top 20 games from last year, we noted Civilization 7, Avowed, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Grand Theft Auto 6 as key franchise titles to look forward to in 2025. While Grand Theft Auto 6 has been postponed to 2026, the other three titles featured as expected in this yearâs list of Arsâ top games. These join numerous anticipated sequels, spanning from big-budget blockbusters to indie productions years in the making, on the 'expected' side of this yearâs roundup.
However, the games that truly caught my attention in 2025 were those that arrived unexpectedly. From unique roguelike puzzle games to an intense mountainous walking simulation, the best Geometry Wars clone in recent memory, and an emotional exploration of adolescence through mini-games, these titles came out of nowhere to steal the spotlight.
Looking ahead to 2026, the industry is gearing up for numerous high-profile projects (with the postponed Grand Theft Auto VI at the forefront). If next year mirrors this one, we can anticipate many more surprise gems emerging as new classics.
Assassinâs Creed Shadows
Ubisoft Quebec; Windows, MacOS, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, iPad
In my younger days, I eagerly expected every game I played to dazzle me with novelty. This was more achievable in the â90s when game design and technology were advancing rapidly. Now, as a gamer in my 40s, Iâm thrilled when games exceed my expectations, though I no longer anticipate it. Nowadays, I find comfort in games that offer a sense of familiarity and evaluated them for their ability to both innovate and bring comfort.
Assassinâs Creed Shadows embodies this (as I noted upon its release). While it follows a familiar formula, it's a masterfully refined version. The game offers a vast, escapist world; immersive audio and graphics; and accommodates a variety of playstyles and skill levels.