Carolyn Petit's Top 5 Games of 2025

The year 2025 has concluded, bringing a diverse array of video game releases to the forefront. Carolyn Petit has curated a list of the top 5 games released this year. The selection criteria highlighted two distinct categories of excellence: titles that perfected traditional gameplay mechanics and those that completely reinvented established genres.

This mix of familiarity and innovation defined the gaming landscape for the year. The final list represents the pinnacle of interactive entertainment from the past twelve months, showcasing the industry's ability to deliver both comfort and surprise to players worldwide. The following sections will explore the specific titles that earned a spot on this prestigious list.

The criteria for the top games of 2025 were not limited to a single genre or style. According to the year-end review, the best titles fell into two primary categories. The first category includes games that embraced traditional formulas and executed them with exceptional quality. The second category features games that took significant risks by breaking the mold entirely.

This duality suggests a healthy and dynamic industry where both refinement and radical innovation are celebrated. Players in 2025 were treated to experiences that ranged from comforting familiarity to startling novelty. The balance between these approaches was a defining characteristic of the year's best releases.

Carolyn Petit's definitive ranking of the best games from the past year highlights a variety of standout titles. The list is led by Split Fiction, a game that pushes the boundaries of narrative design. Following closely is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, noted for its unique artistic vision.

The remaining three spots are filled by Balatro, Blue Prince, and Animal Well. Each of these games brought something distinct to the table, whether through gameplay mechanics, storytelling, or visual style. Together, they form a comprehensive look at the highest achievements in game development for the year.

Reviewing the top selections provides insight into the trends of 2025. The presence of both traditional and experimental games on the list indicates that there is no single path to success. Developers found acclaim by either mastering the classics or forging entirely new paths.

For players, this meant a year of rich choices. Whether one prefers the comfort of a well-known genre or the thrill of a new concept, 2025 offered top-tier options. The success of these five games sets a high bar for future releases in the industry.

The top 5 games of 2025 as selected by Carolyn Petit serve as a testament to the creative diversity of the video game industry. By honoring both traditional excellence and radical innovation, the list captures the full spectrum of what makes gaming a compelling medium. These titles have left a lasting mark on the year and will likely be remembered as benchmarks for quality and creativity.