**…And We’re Back: Zack’s Top 10 Favorite Games of 2025**

After a chaotic year under former ownership, Kotaku is back to again honor the standout video games from the last year. With newfound freedom to share personal favorites and no restrictions on content creation, it’s time to explore the top games that have captivated gamers in 2025.

### 1. Battlefield 6
In spite of some feedback regarding map dimensions and vehicle balancing, **Battlefield 6** has provided a compelling multiplayer experience. Players can fully engage in chaotic yet strategic gameplay that keeps them returning for hours. The excitement of tank battles and intense close-quarters combat continues to characterize the series.

### 2. Routine
Among horror games, **Routine** shines with its distinctive atmosphere and emotional weight. Set in ordinary, photorealistic environments, the game progresses from mere eeriness to intense horror, steering clear of cheap frights for a more engrossing experience.

### 3. Avowed
From the talented hands at Obsidian, **Avowed** offers a deep RPG experience reminiscent of classic Bethesda games, minus the outdated elements. It features well-designed quests and companions that enrich the player’s adventure, resulting in an unforgettable journey.

### 4. THPS 3+4
The eagerly awaited remake of **Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4** effectively captures the spirit of the original titles. While some fans may miss the open-world features, the concise two-minute levels provide exhilarating skateboarding thrills that will surely please longtime enthusiasts.

### 5. Despelote
With soccer as its backdrop, **Despelote** conveys a touching story of growing up in Quito during a critical time in the nation’s story. Players connect with the protagonist’s experiences through beautifully crafted visuals and heartfelt narratives.

### 6. Dispatch
**Dispatch** brings back the episodic narrative style that defined Telltale’s early successes, infused with humor and an engaging superhero plot. Strong voice acting and narrative emphasis make this title a standout that eclipses many of its forerunners.

### 7. Mafia: The Old Country
Delivering a linear experience that many gamers desire, **Mafia: The Old Country** unfolds an intriguing mobster story set in early 20th century Italy. The game boasts stunning visuals and classic storytelling, offering a refreshing contrast to sprawling RPGs.

### 8. South of Midnight
While **South of Midnight** displays some combat issues, its artistic direction and compelling narrative that delves into deep Southern culture create a memorable experience. The music and storytelling foster an immersive environment that resonates emotionally on multiple levels.

### 9. Jurassic World Evolution 3
**Jurassic World Evolution 3** builds on its predecessors, gifting players with the ultimate park simulation experience. It encourages creativity in managing dinosaurs while keeping players engaged with its intricate systems.

### 10. The Outer Worlds 2
Topping the list is **The Outer Worlds 2**, which enhances the RPG experience with breathtaking visuals and refined gameplay mechanics. Players can look forward to a journey filled with humor and captivating quests, echoing the allure of earlier titles while establishing its own identity.

### Conclusion: Zack’s Legacy Continues
As we embrace the return of personal insights into gaming, 2025 has proven to be an outstanding year filled with innovative titles. From horror to humor, vast worlds to personal stories, this year’s picks highlight the rich variety of experiences gaming has to offer. For those interested in last year’s highlights, be sure to check out Zack’s Top 10 Games of 2024, which features gems like **Indiana Jones and the Great Circle** as the top choice.