As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, 2025 has proven to be a remarkable year for PC gaming, showcasing a diverse array of titles that have captivated players. The IGN team has meticulously curated a list of the top five PC games, engaging in a spirited voting process to determine the ultimate champion. While the competition remains fierce, the selections reflect the unique characteristics of the PC platform, which has become a haven for gaming enthusiasts.
Honorable Mentions
Among the noteworthy titles that narrowly missed the top five are Europa Universalis 5 and Anno 117: Pax Romana. These strategy games have carved out a niche on PC, appealing to fans of the 4X genre. Despite the challenges inherent in strategy gaming, 2025 has been a banner year for those who relish deep tactical experiences. Additionally, first-person shooter aficionados were treated to a wealth of options, including Doom: The Dark Ages, Arc Raiders, and Battlefield 6, all of which were strong contenders for the Best Shooter category. The indie scene also flourished with titles like Ball x Pit, Megabonk, and Monster Train 2, which found their rightful place in the hearts of PC gamers. Not to be overlooked, The Outer Worlds 2 and Split Fiction also received accolades in the Best Xbox nominations, further highlighting the interconnected nature of gaming across platforms.
Runner-Up – Hollow Knight: Silksong
The highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong arrived with a reputation for difficulty, challenging players to navigate its expansive and intricate world. However, reducing this title to mere discussions of its challenge would be an oversight. The game excels in numerous areas, from its stunning visuals and charming characters to its captivating soundtrack. The branching paths allow players to explore and grow stronger, ensuring that even when faced with obstacles, there are always options available. The narrative is both touching and nuanced, delivered through a lead character who has quickly become a fan favorite. Silksong stands as a testament to what a sequel can achieve, delivering an experience that was well worth the wait.
Runner-Up – Blue Prince
Blue Prince may initially appear unassuming, but it conceals a wealth of surprises within its roguelike puzzler framework. This innovative blend of genres creates a unique gaming experience that keeps players engaged long after the credits roll. The game’s randomness adds an element of unpredictability, but it is skillfully integrated, allowing players to harness their knowledge and upgrades to master the challenges. Drawing comparisons to classics like Myst while incorporating the addictive “just one more run” appeal of titles such as Slay The Spire, Blue Prince navigates this delicate balance with remarkable finesse.
Runner-Up – Hades 2
Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Hades 2 faced the daunting task of living up to the original’s legacy. Developer Supergiant opted for a strategy of expansion, introducing new areas, enemies, and systems that enhance the gameplay without straying too far from the formula that made the first installment a hit. Melinoë’s quest to confront the titan of time adds an intriguing twist, while her diverse moveset and weapon options refresh the action. Although it did not claim the top spot, Hades 2 earned recognition as the best action game of 2025, bolstered by its signature style and mesmerizing soundtrack.
Runner-Up – Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 takes center stage in the RPG realm, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 deserves equal attention. This expansive medieval adventure offers players a staggering amount of content, with quests that demand meaningful choices and consequences. As anticipation builds for The Elder Scrolls 6, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 serves as a compelling alternative, showcasing impressive storytelling and gameplay that could easily have claimed the top spot in a less competitive year.
Winner – Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Despite any skepticism regarding its sweeping success at award ceremonies, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has undeniably earned its accolades. This distinctly French RPG, while drawing inspiration from Japanese titles, presents familiar elements in a refreshingly innovative manner. Its engaging turn-based combat, intriguing post-apocalyptic narrative, and a dynamic ensemble cast contribute to its appeal. Emerging from a new developer, the game launched with a polished PC version, free from the need for extensive post-launch adjustments. This combination of factors solidifies Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as the Best PC Game of 2025.
What are your thoughts? Share your favorite PC game of 2025 in the comments below. For more insights into IGN’s awards, explore our comprehensive coverage, including selections for the best Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo games of the year.
The Best PC Game of 2025
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, 2025 has proven to be a remarkable year for PC gaming, showcasing a diverse array of titles that have captivated players. The IGN team has meticulously curated a list of the top five PC games, engaging in a spirited voting process to determine the ultimate champion. While the competition remains fierce, the selections reflect the unique characteristics of the PC platform, which has become a haven for gaming enthusiasts.
Honorable Mentions
Among the noteworthy titles that narrowly missed the top five are Europa Universalis 5 and Anno 117: Pax Romana. These strategy games have carved out a niche on PC, appealing to fans of the 4X genre. Despite the challenges inherent in strategy gaming, 2025 has been a banner year for those who relish deep tactical experiences. Additionally, first-person shooter aficionados were treated to a wealth of options, including Doom: The Dark Ages, Arc Raiders, and Battlefield 6, all of which were strong contenders for the Best Shooter category. The indie scene also flourished with titles like Ball x Pit, Megabonk, and Monster Train 2, which found their rightful place in the hearts of PC gamers. Not to be overlooked, The Outer Worlds 2 and Split Fiction also received accolades in the Best Xbox nominations, further highlighting the interconnected nature of gaming across platforms.
Runner-Up – Hollow Knight: Silksong
The highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong arrived with a reputation for difficulty, challenging players to navigate its expansive and intricate world. However, reducing this title to mere discussions of its challenge would be an oversight. The game excels in numerous areas, from its stunning visuals and charming characters to its captivating soundtrack. The branching paths allow players to explore and grow stronger, ensuring that even when faced with obstacles, there are always options available. The narrative is both touching and nuanced, delivered through a lead character who has quickly become a fan favorite. Silksong stands as a testament to what a sequel can achieve, delivering an experience that was well worth the wait.
Runner-Up – Blue Prince
Blue Prince may initially appear unassuming, but it conceals a wealth of surprises within its roguelike puzzler framework. This innovative blend of genres creates a unique gaming experience that keeps players engaged long after the credits roll. The game’s randomness adds an element of unpredictability, but it is skillfully integrated, allowing players to harness their knowledge and upgrades to master the challenges. Drawing comparisons to classics like Myst while incorporating the addictive “just one more run” appeal of titles such as Slay The Spire, Blue Prince navigates this delicate balance with remarkable finesse.
Runner-Up – Hades 2
Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Hades 2 faced the daunting task of living up to the original’s legacy. Developer Supergiant opted for a strategy of expansion, introducing new areas, enemies, and systems that enhance the gameplay without straying too far from the formula that made the first installment a hit. Melinoë’s quest to confront the titan of time adds an intriguing twist, while her diverse moveset and weapon options refresh the action. Although it did not claim the top spot, Hades 2 earned recognition as the best action game of 2025, bolstered by its signature style and mesmerizing soundtrack.
Runner-Up – Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 takes center stage in the RPG realm, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 deserves equal attention. This expansive medieval adventure offers players a staggering amount of content, with quests that demand meaningful choices and consequences. As anticipation builds for The Elder Scrolls 6, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 serves as a compelling alternative, showcasing impressive storytelling and gameplay that could easily have claimed the top spot in a less competitive year.
Winner – Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Despite any skepticism regarding its sweeping success at award ceremonies, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has undeniably earned its accolades. This distinctly French RPG, while drawing inspiration from Japanese titles, presents familiar elements in a refreshingly innovative manner. Its engaging turn-based combat, intriguing post-apocalyptic narrative, and a dynamic ensemble cast contribute to its appeal. Emerging from a new developer, the game launched with a polished PC version, free from the need for extensive post-launch adjustments. This combination of factors solidifies Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as the Best PC Game of 2025.
What are your thoughts? Share your favorite PC game of 2025 in the comments below. For more insights into IGN’s awards, explore our comprehensive coverage, including selections for the best Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo games of the year.