### The Fluidity of Personal Game of the Year Lists

The recollection of personal Game of the Year (GOTY) lists frequently fades swiftly post-publication, as highlighted by veteran game critics such as Ethan Gach from Kotaku. In spite of the enthusiasm surrounding these yearly compilations, the specifics often become indistinct, resulting in ambiguity regarding former selections. This article delves into the core of GOTY lists, the variability of individual taste, and an overview of remarkable games from 2025 that illustrate the intricacies of gaming experiences.

#### The Ephemeral Nature of Gaming Lists

Personal GOTY lists act as snapshots of sentiments towards games at a specific time. They can fluctuate throughout the year due to new releases and shifting viewpoints. Even after finalizing choices, uncertainties about those selections persist, as the nature of enjoyment and involvement with games develops. Prior lists may feature titles that the author perceives differently now, underscoring the subjective and often transient nature of video game encounters.

#### Purpose of GOTY Lists

These lists frequently do more than merely rank games; they aid in clarifying sentiments about the gaming landscape and can bring to light titles players might have overlooked. Readers often interact with these lists to align their own experiences and preferences with those of the author, fostering a communal space for dialogue regarding taste and enjoyment in gaming.

#### Top Games of 2025

Here are highlights from the author’s picks for 2025, listed in alphabetical order:

1. **9 Kings**
A streamlined tower defense strategy game infused with roguelike deckbuilding elements, presently in Early Access. The inclusion of a quest mode enhances gameplay and introduces unforeseen synergies, resulting in a delightful experience.

2. **Arc Raiders**
A multiplayer extraction shooter that adeptly captivates solo players. It merges immersive PvE experiences with unpredictable PvP aspects, amplifying the sci-fi environment and providing rewarding gameplay.

3. **Citizen Sleeper 2**
A follow-up to its predecessor that builds on its TTRPG elements, this game delivers a vast yet sometimes cumbersome experience. It expertly fuses dice-rolling mechanics with resource management, set against a backdrop of haunting narrative dilemmas.

4. **Clair Obscur: Expedition 33**
A JRPG drawing inspiration from established classics, featuring superb writing, performances, and a striking soundtrack, complemented by a solid turn-based combat system that sets a new benchmark.

5. **Donkey Kong Bananza**
An action platformer that, although initially chaotic and innovative, loses some pace but wraps up with an engaging conclusion. It highlights the emotional peaks of gaming rather than a thorough critique of its entirety.

6. **Elden Ring Nightreign**
This title takes the battle royale blueprint and reinvents it within an open-world framework. It provides a distinctive exploration experience intertwined with classic FromSoftware challenges.

7. **Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles**
A cherished remaster that preserves the finest aspects of the original while reintroducing players to its remarkable job system and captivating narrative, albeit with careful enhancements.

8. **Ghost of Yotei**
A title that emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, much like a consistent dish at a restaurant, maintaining its allure through expert execution rather than mere novelty.

9. **Hollow Knight: Silksong**
An impressive 2D action game that combines classic Metroidvania and Soulslike elements into a challenging yet gratifying experience, known for its ambitious design and emotional resonance.

10. **Split Fiction**
Despite a clichéd storyline, this action-adventure game excels in design and pacing, showcasing outstanding storytelling and game mechanics that engage the player right to the finish.

### Conclusion

Year after year, reflecting on favorite games reveals the capricious nature of memory and emotion in gaming. GOTY lists embody opinions that are destined to transform, promoting continuous conversations about shared experiences and personal connections within the gaming community.

At the close of each year, we celebrate the outstanding games we’ve experienced in full, but we also enjoy highlighting and applauding the specific moments that resonated with us the most; the mechanics, scenes, and finer details that rendered this year’s top games so memorable. This is what we achieve with our “Best Moments” lists. These can be significant narrative revelations or minor instances that stood out in otherwise expansive games. If you’re concerned about spoilers, we’ve got your back. Here are the titles we’ll be discussing and their sequence, so if you spot anything on this list you wish to dodge, you can scroll past it quickly:

• Elden Ring Nightreign
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
• Hollow Knight: Silksong
• Blue Prince
• Octopath Traveler 0
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Pokemon Legends: Z-A
• The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy

Conquering Everdark Gaping Jaw in Nightreign

Elden Ring Nightreign excels at giving you the impression that you’re finally mastering the game before delivering a surprise hit that takes the breath out of you. Everdark Sovereign Gaping Jaw, the initial bonus boss fight introduced post-launch, illustrated how a battle can tread heavily on all players while simultaneously gradually improving their skills until a barrier that once felt unassailable becomes effortlessly manageable.

There are no tricks or enigmas to unravel here, either. You simply hone in, memorize the sound cues, and face defeat repetitively until it all makes sense in your mind. FromSoftware has crafted numerous such instances over the years, but Nightreign elevated this by allowing you to experience both suffering and success alongside others. It was akin to year-one Destiny raid moments, but without the inconvenience of waiting around at a loot cave for chance drops. – Ethan Gach

Discovering you can smash anything in Donkey Kong Bananza

Donkey Kong Bananza features destructible environments that can be incredibly distracting, yet they are an impressive technical achievement. Before I even exited the initial room, I noticed that I could punch through nearly all the walls, floors, and ceilings, causing a shower of little golden bits to drop. I could then break those apart as well. Donkey Kong Bananza‘s destructible landscapes feel like the fanciest fidget toy you’ve ever used, and there truly is nothing like the instant realization that you can venture practically anywhere if you have the resolve to break through the barrier separating you from your goal. — Kenneth Shepard

The grand revelation at the finale of Death Stranding 2

As we journey through <

### Development Journey of Pokémon Legends: Z-A

The gaming community is frequently captivated by the development story behind beloved titles, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A is no different. Following its launch on October 16, 2025, enthusiasts have had a chance to delve into and examine its development path, particularly through the lens of the Game Freak Teraleak. This leak provides an unparalleled glimpse into the development stages, highlighting what might have been in the finished product.

#### Early Development Insights

The YouTuber TurtleBro initiated a thorough investigation of the Teraleak, supplying a chronological summary of Legends: Z-A’s development tracing back to 2022. At first, Game Freak incorporated designs from Pokémon Legends: Arceus for earlier versions, including temporary characters. This unveiled intriguing insights into concepts that did not make it into the final version, such as extra exploration areas and distinctive multiplayer modes, including a feature akin to dodgeball with Poké Balls.

One striking element of the initial builds was the enhanced environmental detail, contrasting with the final game’s often-criticized flat-textured visuals. Early footage showcased richly detailed architecture, including elaborately designed windows and edifices. However, by January 2023, numerous assets suffered a considerable downgrade, characterized as a burden for the development team. This decision signified a pivotal moment where the developers began to hone the gameplay components, transitioning the combat system to a more action-oriented style, with signs of a shift from third-person shooting mechanics to a more refined command-based format.

#### The Shift Towards Finalization

The timeline indicates that despite an encouraging start, the visuals underwent deliberate modifications. By June 2024, Legends: Z-A attained a feature-complete status. Nevertheless, the subsequent 16 months leading up to its release were primarily focused on refining the game. This prolonged polishing phase was likely a strategic choice to prevent the performance issues that affected earlier releases, particularly Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

While some theorize that this period was exclusively dedicated to performance enhancements, others propose that Game Freak may have put aside certain features, redirecting their focus toward new projects instead. This ambiguity highlights a significant area of speculation regarding the development choices made during the later phases of the game’s creation.

#### Conclusion

The transformation from idea to reality of Pokémon Legends: Z-A reflects the intricacies of game development within the Pokémon franchise. TurtleBro’s detailed coverage affords fans a thorough insight into what was originally envisioned compared to what was eventually produced. As the development journey has progressed, this reflection not only emphasizes missed opportunities but also serves as a cautionary tale for forthcoming titles, such as the eagerly awaited Pokémon Wind and Wave games. As the franchise commemorates its 30th anniversary, fans eagerly anticipate how these future releases will materialize, recognizing that the path from concept to finished product can often involve unanticipated changes.

**The Legacy of Kylo Ren’s Quote: An In-Depth Examination of Star Wars Themes**

As we commemorate the tenth anniversary of *Star Wars: The Force Awakens*, it is essential to contemplate the consequences of particular iconic quotes that have infused the *Star Wars* vocabulary, especially those spoken by the character Kylo Ren. His notable line, “Let the past die. Kill it, if you have to,” articulated in *The Last Jedi*, has ignited considerable dialogue and debate among fans. This article investigates why this quote, despite its impact, has emerged as a centerpiece in conversations surrounding the franchise, frequently overshadowing the films’ richer narratives and themes.

### The Influence of Kylo Ren

Kylo Ren, played by Adam Driver, acts as both an antagonist and a tragic character within the *Star Wars* sequel trilogy. His declaration to Rey signifies a crucial moment in their intricate relationship—a moment that embodies his conflict with identity and the burden of his familial history. The quote has resonated with audiences, partly due to its compelling rhythm and the stark ideology it signifies, promoting a total repudiation of the past in pursuit of self-fulfillment.

Nevertheless, the danger resides in how fans and critics utilize this line as an all-encompassing thesis for *The Last Jedi* and the broader *Star Wars* narrative. It is crucial to bear in mind that Kylo Ren, as the speaker of this line, is a character rooted in chaos and discord, with his motivations reflecting an inherently flawed perspective. His insistence on discarding the past is less about enlightenment and more indicative of his inner conflict and yearning for identity.

### A Franchise in Reflection

The inclination of fans to elevate this quote mirrors a more extensive trend within the *Star Wars* community: perceiving individual films not on their respective merits but as components of a larger franchise narrative. Each new film or series transforms into a referendum on the franchise at large rather than a standalone exploration of its themes. This viewpoint can detract from the distinct messages woven into each story and oversimplifies the franchise’s growth over the decades.

Successful *Star Wars* narratives frequently engage with the past. For instance, *The Last Jedi* features characters like Luke Skywalker and Finn, who each confront their histories to carve new pathways forward. Luke’s conflict—his wish to sever ties with his own past and the Jedi—ultimately contrasts with Kylo Ren’s ideology. Unlike Kylo, who aims to eradicate the past, Luke is ultimately encouraged to learn from it, accepting his legacy and motivating a new generation.

### The Complexity of Growth

*The Last Jedi* emphasizes personal development rooted in acknowledging and reconciling with one’s past. Each character who demonstrates growth in the film does so by confronting their history. Rey, for example, grapples with her identity and heritage but discovers purpose when engaging with her past rather than denying it. Similarly, Finn transitions from a stormtrooper to a rebel fighter not by dismissing his former life but by recontextualizing it within a new narrative—redefining his identity.

Kylo Ren’s philosophy, conversely, signifies an immature rejection of reality that ultimately results in a failure to glean insights from history. This refusal to confront the past usually ensures the recurrence of its errors.

### Cultural Impact and the Conversation

The culture surrounding *Star Wars* has transformed significantly with the advent of social media and online forums, giving rise to real-time discussions that can often drift into contentious territory. In a landscape where opinions can escalate into intense debates, the urge to assert a definitive interpretation of any *Star Wars* quote or theme can overshadow the nuanced storytelling that lies at the heart of the franchise.

Yet, as fans delve into these narratives, they should strive for more profound discussions that reach beyond the immediate influence of a single quote. Rather than viewing *Star Wars* merely as a corporate entity, appreciating the artistic integrity of each film allows for richer dialogues. Analyzing character arcs, themes, and symbolisms from a new perspective will enhance our understanding and enjoyment of the *Star Wars* legacy.

### Concluding Thoughts

Ultimately, Kylo Ren’s notorious line encapsulates a captivating yet flawed ideology that challenges not only the characters in *The Last Jedi* but also the audience’s understanding of history and growth. As we scrutinize this cinematic universe, it is crucial to steer discussions towards the themes of reconciliation with the past instead of outright denial. The narratives that resonate most profoundly are those that reflect our intricate relationships with our histories and how those histories shape us into who we are destined to become.

In conclusion, the *Star Wars* saga teaches us that while the past may affect us, it is through understanding and embracing our legacies that true growth and meaningful connections flourish.

## Delving into the Excitement Surrounding *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake*

With the recent debut of the latest trailer for *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake*, numerous gamers are making parallels to the renowned RPG *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*. This rising phenomenon of comparing *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* to *Clair Obscur* highlights a broader discussion regarding originality in the gaming industry, particularly in light of a trend where many developers might incorporate aspects from successful games.

### An Exceptional Comeback to a Classic

Released by CubeGame, *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* signifies a major revival of the 2007 edition, leveraging the sophisticated capabilities of Unreal Engine 5. This makeover not only boosts the graphics but also introduces gamers to a new storyline where the main character, Tianhe Yun, embarks on a quest that reveals long-hidden truths. The elevated production quality and engaging turn-based combat mechanics showcased in the new trailer have garnered the interest of both longtime fans and newcomers.

### Unique Visual and Gameplay Characteristics

The resemblances between *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* and *Clair Obscur* largely arise from common features in their combat systems. Both games present vibrant cinematic animations, filled with motion blur and slowed-down action scenes, immersing players in visually stunning conflicts. Furthermore, the incorporation of a command wheel in the battle interface—a break from more conventional HUD configurations—has intensified these parallels. The utilization of Unreal Engine 5 in *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* introduces a degree of realism that mirrors the visual presentation given by *Clair Obscur*.

### The Significance of Context in Game Development

It’s crucial to acknowledge that while some media sources may simplify *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* to just “Clair Obscur-like” status, the game possesses its own rich heritage. The *Sword and Fairy* series, which originated in 1995 as an homage to *Final Fantasy* grounded in Chinese mythology, has consistently exhibited its distinct identity. While the newest version reverts to turn-based mechanics after the real-time action format seen in *Sword and Fairy 7*, the game has long served as an important cultural touchstone in the gaming domain.

### A Cycle of Influence and Creativity

As the gaming community contemplates the triumph of *Clair Obscur*, many are curious if *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* will play a role in a broader shift in turn-based gameplay. Felipe Pepe, editor of *The CRPG Book*, criticized the tendency of gaming media to oversimplify discussions surrounding titles coming from China, claiming that such misunderstandings diminish the significance of these games. The design elements evident in *Clair Obscur* are not merely its creations; they are inspired by a tradition of JRPGs, including legendary series like *Persona*.

### Conclusion: A New Journey Beckons

As excitement mounts for *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake*, the title serves as a testament to the dynamic evolution of RPGs. The game is set to not only revisit a cherished classic but also to reshape expectations for future generations of turn-based titles. Whether it establishes a standard for new developers or remains a unique experience within its series, *Sword and Fairy 4: Remake* encourages players to embark on a journey that intertwines nostalgia with contemporary innovation.

### GOG’s Fresh Beginning: Autonomy with Michał Kiciński

GOG, the well-known digital gaming marketplace celebrated for its dedication to DRM-free experiences and safeguarding of vintage titles, has officially parted ways with its parent organization, CD Projekt Red (CDPR). This shift signifies a major transformation for both GOG and the larger gaming industry as it begins a new chapter under the complete ownership of one of its co-founders, Michał Kiciński.

#### Acquisition Details

On December 29, 2023, CDPR revealed that Michał Kiciński has purchased all of GOG’s shares for 90 million PLN, which is roughly 25 million USD. Notably, this acquisition did not require Kiciński to divest any shares of CDPR, enabling him to maintain his role within the company while directing GOG’s future.

In an official announcement, GOG managing director Maciej Gołębiewski conveyed a shared vision between GOG and Kiciński, underlining their collective goal to ensure the longevity of games. He remarked, “In a market that’s growing increasingly crowded, more restricted, and forgets classic games at a faster rate, we’re focusing on what only GOG can do: resurrecting classics, ensuring they remain playable on modern PCs, and assisting remarkable games in discovering their audience over time.”

#### History and Purpose of GOG

Initially established as Good Old Games in October 2008, GOG began as a niche platform for retro gaming, offering a venue for different publishers and developers to market their titles free from digital rights management (DRM). Over time, GOG has broadened its array of offerings greatly, now featuring both recent releases and classic games, along with a strong preservation initiative focused on keeping older games functioning on current hardware, even in the absence of publisher support.

#### Reasons for the Sale

Regarding the acquisition, CDPR co-CEO Michał Nowakowski explained the rationale behind the decision to divest GOG. With an ambitious development agenda planned for CDPR aimed at expanding its franchises and projects, it became strategically beneficial to allow GOG to function autonomously. He voiced confidence in Kiciński’s stewardship, asserting that GOG is now in “exceptionally capable hands” and that its future will flourish under Kiciński’s leadership.

#### Continued Collaboration

Even with the official separation, CDPR has assured players that it will keep releasing its new titles on the GOG platform, preserving the existing relationship between the two organizations, albeit with different operational frameworks. For gamers, this continuity signifies that the familiar platform remains unchanged regarding access to CDPR titles, while simultaneously supporting GOG’s independent endeavors.

#### Conclusion

The acquisition of GOG by Michał Kiciński signals the dawn of a new period for the platform, dedicated to enriching the gaming experience for players while upholding the heritage of classic games. As Kiciński guides GOG’s vision into the future, the focus on maintaining gaming history and building a community-oriented platform hints at a bright future for this iconic marketplace in a swiftly changing digital environment.

But first, time to enjoy your lovely joke!

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# Elevating Television Sound: The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker

The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar featuring a Bass Reflex Speaker is crafted to enhance your TV auditory experience. It presents a sleek design that adds clarity and powerful sound without taking up essential media stand space. Equipped with a compact 2.0-channel setup along with a built-in tweeter and Bass Reflex engineering, the S100F greatly enhances sound quality compared to the typical integrated speakers in most televisions.

### Outstanding Sound Performance

The sound features of the S100F are meticulously adjusted to improve dialogue clarity and provide an immersive viewing atmosphere. Its 2.0 channel configuration, enriched by a built-in tweeter, guarantees that high-frequency sounds come through crisp and distinct. The Bass Reflex design enhances lower frequencies, providing depth to sounds such as crowd reactions, sound effects, and music. Sony’s S-Force Pro Front Surround technology further expands the soundstage, creating a broad listening environment utilizing just one unit. The soundbar also boasts a voice enhancement setting that elevates dialogue levels in quieter moments, reducing the frequency of volume adjustments.

### Compact Design

Intended for space-conscious environments, the S100F can effortlessly fit beneath various TV dimensions without blocking the screen. It can also be mounted on the wall, provided with a measuring template for easy installation. This versatility allows for both aesthetic allure and practical sound placement, making it a perfect choice for individuals with limited space.

### Simple Connectivity Options

Establishing a connection with the S100F is easy, thanks to multiple connectivity methods. The HDMI ARC option facilitates audio transfer from compatible TVs while allowing control via your TV remote. An optical input caters to older television models, while USB playback enables users to connect a music drive for direct audio access. The Bluetooth function turns the soundbar into a wireless speaker for smartphones, tablets, or laptops, even when the TV is powered off.

### Included Accessories

The S100F is accompanied by various accessories, ensuring immediate readiness upon unboxing. Customers will receive a remote control with batteries, an optical cable, an AC power cord, a wall-mount template, installation manuals, and warranty information.

### Final Thoughts

For anyone in search of a compact soundbar that enhances dialogue clarity and amplifies bass response, the Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker is an outstanding option. Currently priced at a reduced rate of $99, down from its original MSRP of $160, it represents substantial value compared to conventional TV audio systems.

[Acquire the Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker at a discounted price here.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5987/)

### Check on Amazon
[View it on Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5987/)

**Avengers: Doomsday – A Nostalgic Comeback**

Avengers: Doomsday is creating significant excitement among the Marvel enthusiast community, utilizing nostalgic elements from earlier franchises while unveiling surprises. Importantly, Chris Evans returns as Steve Rogers, a character many believed had concluded his journey after Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame. This comeback demonstrates the studio’s readiness to revisit cherished characters, merging fresh narratives with beloved heroes.

Furthermore, the film features Robert Downey Jr. in a new role as Doctor Doom, introducing an additional layer of intrigue for the audience. Downey’s previous portrayal of Iron Man has made a considerable impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), making this casting choice both unforeseen and thrilling. This blend of past and present signifies a deliberate initiative by Marvel to appeal to a wide audience, comprising both veteran fans and newcomers alike.

A significant addition to Avengers: Doomsday is the incorporation of X-Men characters from the Fox films, notably Patrick Stewart as Professor Xavier and Ian McKellen as Magneto. These legendary figures are showcased in the latest trailers, which have been exclusively presented in theaters ahead of Avatar: Fire and Ash screenings. The trailers hint at dramatic character interactions, including a scene where Xavier and Lehnsherr, amidst the chaos surrounding them, share a contemplative moment over a chess game—symbolizing both camaraderie and depth.

Visuals from leaked shaky footage have ignited enthusiasm on social media channels, although Marvel has promptly taken down unauthorized uploads. Regardless, numerous fans have glimpsed a ravaged Xavier Institute and pivotal exchanges between these iconic characters. The trailers emphasize themes of friendship and rivalry, encapsulating the essence of their enduring conflict and partnership.

In a surprising development, James Marsden will reprise his role as Cyclops, wearing a comic-authentic blue-and-yellow outfit. This marks the first occasion Marsden has donned the character’s classic colors since his brief role in X-Men: Days of Future Past in 2014. The transition from the predominantly dark outfits of earlier Fox films to a more vibrant color scheme indicates a fresh perspective that blends nostalgia with modernity for the X-Men.

Fans have already flocked to social media to voice their enthusiasm, sharing images and clips that have ignited interest. Featuring iconic visuals like Cyclops in his new attire has sparked speculation regarding how the X-Men will integrate into the broader Marvel storyline in Avengers: Doomsday.

As excitement mounts, the trailer is currently exclusive to theater presentations, but fans anticipate a high-quality version will soon be available on Marvel’s YouTube channel, increasing accessibility and interaction within the community.

In conclusion, Avengers: Doomsday is orchestrating a return of familiar faces while introducing new dynamics and characters. With its fusion of nostalgia, emotional connections, and captivating storytelling, it is poised to be a significant addition to the Marvel franchise that resonates with fans across varying generations.

A recap: of the seven hopefuls I slipped into our bulk 2025 list of “Oh, that looks alright” games, only three actually released in 2025, and one of them wasn’t very good. If it’s the hope that kills you, I am therefore dead four, arguably five times over. Real Necron shit, honestly.

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