Slay The Spire 2 Begins Early Access on a Major Release Day

Is Darkryte worth the hype?

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# Contemplating the Top Games of 2025

As we wrap up another year, it’s the perfect moment to contemplate the top games of 2025 and the unique experiences they offered. While I previously discussed my preferred titles from 2024, this year’s lineup feels particularly vibrant and infused with fresh enthusiasm. My gaming journey has been rejuvenated, culminating in a selection of ten extraordinary games that distinguished themselves in 2025.

## 10. *Dead Take*

Surgent Studio’s escape room horror title, *Dead Take*, seized my attention in unexpected ways. While its reliance on jump scares is clear, the storyline delves into the murkier sides of creativity and rivalry within the industry. As players traverse an abandoned mansion, they uncover unsettling truths about ambition and betrayal that resonate deeply with individuals who’ve strived for acknowledgment in competitive arenas.

## 9. *Split Fiction*

Although it received a somewhat tepid response, *Split Fiction* remains a standout for its groundbreaking storytelling and team-based platforming mechanics. Hazelight Studios crafts an experience that embodies the spirit of cooperative gameplay, climaxing in an impressive level that weaves together various narrative strands into a harmonious experience. The adventure through imaginative realms encapsulates the creativity and hurdles faced by writers.

## 8. *Goodnight Universe*

Building upon the emotional richness of *Before Your Eyes*, *Goodnight Universe* undertook a formidable challenge and, while it might not completely rival its predecessor, it still strikes a chord. Utilizing eye-tracking technology to connect diverse narratives, it examines the intricacies of human relationships and the emotional journeys we navigate. The closing moments provide a poignant conclusion, establishing it as a significant contender.

## 7. *Lost Records: Bloom & Rage*

This title taps into the deep-rooted fears of public speaking and connection, designed for those who often feel marginalized. Don’t Nod’s narrative framework captures the subtleties of youthful recollections and adult contemplation, enabling players to introspect on their own connections. The interplay of nostalgia and trauma intertwines beautifully, serving as a reminder of the enduring marks left by our early years.

## 6. *Digimon Story: Time Stranger*

*Digimon Story: Time Stranger* evokes nostalgia alongside innovative gameplay. The ability to assemble a team of distinctive Digimon from the outset not only customizes the experience but also fosters an emotional bond throughout the gaming adventure. Revisiting beloved monsters in this RPG crafts a unique and profoundly personal narrative.

## 5. *Fretless – The Wrath of Riffson*

*Fretless* merges rhythm elements with tactical deck-building, offering a refreshingly captivating battle system that feels instinctive and rewarding. It’s a tribute to rhythm game aficionados, integrating musical components that enhance gameplay and stir memories of bygone musical experiences, rekindling aspects of myself I assumed were dormant.

## 4. *Shuten Order*

*Shuten Order* skillfully intertwines several narratives into a unified experience. With a protagonist compelled to disentangle her own murder mystery, each route reveals distinct mechanics and story arcs, highlighting Too Kyo Games’ ingenuity. The game effectively motivates players to explore every path to reveal the truth, ensuring each playthrough feels unique.

## 3. *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*

From its initial moments, *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* forges a deep emotional connection. Its engaging narrative and complex battle mechanics elevate it beyond conventional RPGs. The journey through grief and the human experience is compelling, offering a raw and unfiltered depiction of loss and resilience that lingers well after the game concludes.

## 2. *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*

This installment of the Pokémon series resonates on an emotional level with its story set against a vibrant city backdrop. Innovative real-time battles intertwined with community themes strike a chord with my personal experiences and relationships. As I explore Lumiose City with my cherished Pokémon, the notion of connection and safety within these familiar environments rings true.

## 1. *The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy*

Topping my list is *The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy*, an ambitious visual novel/RPG that enthralls with its richness and narrative intricacy. The choice-driven plot presents daunting possibilities, making the journey through its varied endings both exhilarating and intimidating. This game shines as a masterclass in storytelling, artfully merging emotional depth with an engaging gameplay experience.

Reflecting on these titles unveils a varied gaming landscape in 2025, highlighting innovation, emotional resonance, and creative narrative. Each game not only entertained but also provided profound insights into the human condition, making this year truly exceptional in the annals of gaming history.

**Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade Update Brings New Streamlined Mode for Players Desiring a Narrative Experience**

Five years after the launch of *Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade* on PlayStation 5, Square Enix is preparing to enhance the game with a complimentary update aimed at enriching the storytelling journey. Scheduled for release on January 22, this patch unveils a “streamlined” mode, designed for players who wish to deep dive into the narrative without engaging in the usual combat challenges.

This mode arrives just as the game is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X/S, sparking excitement among fans of the legendary RPG series. In a statement issued on January 15, Square Enix enthusiastically shared information about the forthcoming update. The streamlined progression feature will ensure characters maintain full HP and MP at all times and consistently inflict 9,999 damage with each attack. Consequently, every hit players deliver can mirror the iconic Omnislash move, effectively eliminating the need for extensive grinding to reach high damage levels.

The streamlined progression mode serves as a simplified story mode, perfect for players who are more focused on the journey of protagonist Cloud and his companions from Avalanche as they confront the corrupt Shinra Corporation. Instead of lowering the difficulty to easy, gamers can experience a more relaxed adventure where characters are automatically maximized regarding abilities and damage capacity.

This update is not limited to newcomers with the impending ports; current players on PC and PS5 will also gain from this addition, granting them a chance to complete the game on hard difficulty, potentially making the path to unlocking the Platinum trophy more attainable. Moreover, players who purchase the game digitally before the month concludes will receive a digital copy of the original *Final Fantasy VII*, increasing the value of their acquisition.

As anticipation builds for this update, both veteran players and newcomers have plenty to look forward to in the ever-evolving realm of *Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade*, ensuring that the cherished franchise remains captivating to audiences with its compelling storytelling and innovative gameplay enhancements.