Top-Rated Video Games of 2025: Mid-Year Review
2025-07-02 00:23:48As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the gaming industry has already delivered an impressive lineup of titles that have captivated players worldwide. Despite notable delays like Grand Theft Auto VI pushing to 2026, this year continues to shine with both established franchise entries and groundbreaking new intellectual properties.
The gaming calendar started strong in late January and maintained consistent momentum through spring. Each month brought fresh experiences, with some periods proving particularly bountiful for gamers. While six months remain in 2025 with more anticipated releases on the horizon, these ten titles have already secured their positions as the year's highest-rated games according to review aggregator OpenCritic.
Leading the pack is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 with an impressive 92 rating, followed closely by Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Split Fiction at 90. The list continues with Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Blue Prince, Monster Hunter Wilds, Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo, Keep Driving, StarVaders, and Monster Train 2 - all scoring between 88-89.
The Standout Titles of 2025
- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 - 92
- Death Stranding 2: On the Beach - 90
- Split Fiction - 90
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 - 89
- Blue Prince - 89
- Monster Hunter Wilds - 89
- Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo - 89
- Keep Driving - 89
- StarVaders - 88
- Monster Train 2 - 88
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has emerged as the current frontrunner for Game of the Year honors, praised for its mesmerizing soundtrack, deep narrative, and innovative turn-based combat system. The game's strategic depth and artistic vision have set a new benchmark for RPGs.
Hideo Kojima's Death Stranding 2: On the Beach expands upon its predecessor's unique formula with breathtaking visuals and evolved gameplay mechanics. Meanwhile, Josef Fares' Split Fiction delivers an unforgettable cooperative experience that masterfully blends science fiction and fantasy elements.
The medieval RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 maintains the hardcore authenticity that defined the original while making significant quality-of-life improvements. Blue Prince offers a fresh take on puzzle games with roguelike elements that create endlessly replayable challenges.
With such diverse offerings across multiple genres, 2025 has already provided gamers with exceptional experiences. These critically acclaimed titles represent the pinnacle of game design and storytelling available today, each offering unique experiences that cater to different player preferences.
As we look ahead to the second half of 2025, these games have set a high standard for upcoming releases. Whether you prefer narrative-driven adventures, strategic combat, or innovative gameplay mechanics, this year's top-rated games offer something remarkable for every type of player.