With GTA 6’s delay, the 2025 GOTY race just got a whole lot more competitive. Who’s leading the race?

Whenever there's a discussion on the next GOTY candidate, the conversation would always end with, "This could win, but it could all change with Grand Theft Auto 6." With GTA 6 officially delayed, that line no longer holds. The spotlight's wide open, and the race for the crown begins.

2025 has already thrown a ton of heavy-hitters our way, and we're not even halfway through the year. Sure, the obvious Triple-A titles might take the win, but let's not forget how GOTY has shown love to those indie gems. So, here are our picks for the top contenders—based only on the ones already launched (I wish GTA 6 could be in the mix, but hey, at least we got a release date).

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

When I first played Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, I was ready to toss my controller after wrestling with its realistic mechanics. But once I dug deeper, I realized how magnificent this game truly is (and yes, I am a little embarrassed I got so worked up). It's certainly challenging, with its intricate swordplay and the fact that everyone—seriously, everyone—wants to kill you. But that same realism makes it a top contender for Game of the Year 2025. You really feel like you've stepped into a medieval world.

After you get the hang of things, though, it's just pure fun. Every NPC line was so wild that I turned around, asking, "What the heck did you just say?" The whimsical situations Henry stumbles into make every day feel like a new adventure. I've barely even scratched the surface of the endless, bizarre scenarios Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has to offer.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Don't Nod games were a cornerstone of my teenage years, with Life is Strange shining brightly in my gaming memories. Now, as an adult (if you can call me that), the developers have done it again with Lost Records: Bloom and Rage. Set in the '90s, it evokes the nostalgia of classic mystery films I devoured in my youth, the kind that pulls you in so deep you can't help but binge through to unravel their secrets. But in this case, it's not just a movie; it's as if you're living it yourself.

The story is nothing short of spectacular, which, given Don't Nod's past brilliance, comes as no surprise. Conversations between the girls can get a little awkward, an intentional touch reflecting the character's teenage naiveté. There's also a fascinating back-and-forth between their past and present selves, reminding me of Yellowjackets as you try to piece together the mysteries of Velvet Cove and what really happened there.

Avowed

Although I've never been deeply immersed in fantasy RPGs, Avowed felt like the perfect entry point—accessible to newcomers yet rich enough to satisfy longtime fans. Set in the world of the beloved Pillars of Eternity series, it honors that legacy while confidently forging its own path. The combat system is a true delight, letting you mix weapons and magic in combinations you'd never expect. I never thought I'd wield a grimoire in one hand and a gun in the other, yet in this strange and stunning world, it feels completely natural. That's the magic of Avowed; it embraces the unexpected.

The world is a spectacle, glowing with vibrant colors that feel pulled from a dream. And the Companions? They're more than just tagalongs. With sharp personalities and real skill in a fight, they stand beside you every step of the way, not just as support but as essential allies who earn their place in the journey.

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

There's always been a debate about whether remakes or remasters should be considered for Game of the Year. That conversation has resurfaced with The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which took the gaming world by surprise with its unexpected shadow drop. While opinions may differ, it could very well earn a spot among 2025's top contenders.

The visual overhaul brings the 2005 classic into the modern era, but it's not just about looks. Oblivion Remastered captures the spirit of the original and adds even more depth. It still stands as one of the most beloved RPGs of all time, with rewarding progression and approachable mechanics that welcome even those new to the genre. And if it doesn't make the final GOTY list, maybe it's time to consider a dedicated category for remakes and remasters.

Assassin's Creed: Shadows

While Assassin's Creed: Mirage quietly slipped by, Shadows arrived with confidence and purpose. It's one of the best Assassin's Creed games I've played, offering a memorable dual-perspective experience through Yasuke, a powerful samurai, and Naoe, a swift and precise shinobi. Shadows stand out because their stories are intertwined rather than separated. In many games, especially within the series, you're asked to choose one character. Here, you experience both lives, with moments of connection that feel genuine, whether through shared conversations or simply sitting down for a drink together.

Their distinct playstyles open up feudal Japan in exciting and varied ways, from direct combat to stealthy infiltration. And, as always with Assassin's Creed, it's grounded in history, blending discovery and storytelling into one unforgettable journey. Shadows also brings back that classic AC gameplay with Naoe's stealthy takedowns, but if you're feeling bold, you can switch gears and go in guns blazing with Yasuke.

Monster Hunter Wilds

Even months after Monster Hunter Wilds debuted, I still find myself returning to hunt down a few more colossal beasts. It's the kind of game that never loses its charm, regardless of whether you're hunting solo or teaming up with a group of fellow hunters online. With 14 weapon types, there's no shortage of ways to tailor your playstyle, ensuring you find the perfect tool for the job. The combat feels exhilarating as you take down massive creatures that continuously adapt their tactics as you progress.

Wielding the Dual Blades, I couldn't help but feel like Levi Ackerman from Attack on Titan, spinning through the air in a dance of deadly precision. And just when you think you've conquered Monster Hunter Wilds, the endgame kicks it up a notch. I love an approach like this, where the end is merely the beginning, opening up new side quests and challenges that keep the thrill alive.

South of Midnight

After the intensity of Monster Hunter Wilds and Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, South of Midnight's serene narrative felt like a breath of fresh air. Set in the Deep South and presented in stunning stop-motion, every environment felt like a living, breathing painting. I often found myself pausing just to admire the intricate details. But what truly resonated with me was the deeply moving story told through the eyes of Hazel, the protagonist, and the colorful cast of characters she meets along the way.

It's a raw, emotional journey, with each chapter pulling at my heartstrings more than the last. Through glimpses of memories and the struggles of those she encounters, Hazel embarks on a deeply personal quest to find her mother. While narratives with multiple threads can often feel overwhelming, South of Midnight strikes the perfect balance, connecting you with each character's journey. On top of that, the combat and traversal mechanics are a joy to use, as Hazel's string-like magic lets her weave through enemies and glide effortlessly across the world.

Blue Prince

Blue Prince came out of nowhere, but it's a welcome surprise I couldn't put down. Even if you're an avid puzzle player, I doubt you've encountered one like this before. The game challenges you to navigate an ever-shifting labyrinth within a mansion, where the puzzles change daily, demanding new strategies with each turn. Every time I thought I had a handle on things, a new roadblock would throw me for a loop, keeping me on my toes. Although there are moments of repetition, where I'd stumble upon rooms I'd already explored, there are days that feel incredibly addictive, getting closer to the elusive Room 46.

It's likely the most challenging puzzle game I've ever encountered, especially when solving one room connects to others around it. Yet, it's not the kind of difficulty that makes you want to ragequit. Instead, it became a test of patience and wit, an intriguing mystery I was determined to solve. Because of this, Blue Prince fans have already begun contending for it as Game of the Year 2025, and it very well might turn out to be true.

Split Fiction

With the success of It Takes Two and A Way Out, Hazelight Studios has firmly established itself as a master of couch co-op gaming. Split Fiction takes that legacy even further, blending two vastly different genres—sci-fi and fantasy—into one seamless and exhilarating adventure. This unique combination creates an experience that keeps you and your friends or family engaged, laughing, and strategizing together. The game's quirky moments, like when you and your co-op partner become hot dogs, only make the experience even more entertaining.

Considering It Takes Two won Game of the Year in 2021, who's to say another Hazelight title can't claim the crown? When director Josef Fares was asked about Split Fiction's GOTY potential, he joked, "Not if GTA 6 comes out." Now that Grand Theft Auto 6 has been delayed, anything is possible.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

If I were to choose my top pick for Game of the Year 2025, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 would sit proudly at the top of my list. In fact, it might even secure a spot in my personal top 10 games of all time. I've never encountered a prologue quite as captivating as Expedition 33; within just 30 minutes, I was utterly drawn into the world, the characters, and the haunting tale of the Paintress. The stakes are incredibly high, as the Paintress targets different age groups each year, and this installment focuses on those who are 33.

Everything about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 feels like pure artistry, from its evocative soundtrack to its mesmerizing landscape. As someone who's never been particularly fond of turn-based RPGs, this game completely shifted my perspective, making the genre inviting for newcomers like me. I cherished almost every moment of this game, though a few grinding sections did cause some frustration. Still, it would be intriguing to see an indie game of this caliber rise to claim the GOTY 2025 title.

The year isn't over yet, and there's still room for surprises. With the Nintendo Switch 2 set to launch, we can expect some hit new titles. There are also strong contenders like Ghost of Yotei and Death Stranding: On the Beach. It's anyone's game, but who do you think will take home the crown?

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