The Best Single-Player Games Released in 2025

The year 2025 represented a monumental era for solo gaming with a diverse array of titles that pushed technical and narrative boundaries. Developers and publishers from around the world delivered experiences ranging from massive open world epics to innovative indie projects. These games offered players a chance to immerse themselves in rich storytelling and refined mechanics without the need for an internet connection. This list highlights the standout achievements that defined the gaming landscape over the past twelve months. These selections showcase the ongoing evolution of the medium and the enduring appeal of solitary play.

‘Ghost of Yotei’ (2025)

Sucker Punch Productions and Sony Interactive Entertainment released this atmospheric sequel in late 2025. Set more than three centuries after the previous game, players control a new protagonist named Atsu in the lands surrounding Mount Yotei. The journey focuses on a personal quest for revenge against a backdrop of breathtaking natural landscapes and changing political seasons. Enhanced swordplay and stealth mechanics provide a refined combat experience for fans of the series. This entry successfully expands the historical fantasy universe with a fresh and compelling perspective.

‘Death Stranding 2: On the Beach’ (2025)

Kojima Productions and Sony Interactive Entertainment launched this visionary sequel in mid 2025. The narrative continues the journey of Sam Porter Bridges as he travels across new territories to reconnect a fractured world. Players must navigate treacherous environments while managing resources and dealing with otherworldly threats. The game features a star studded cast and explores deep themes of human connection and environmental change. It offers a unique gameplay loop that emphasizes traversal and strategy over traditional combat.

‘Metroid Prime 4: Beyond’ (2025)

Retro Studios and Nintendo finally brought this long awaited first person adventure to the Switch in 2025. Samus Aran returns to face a mysterious new threat across a series of alien planets filled with ancient secrets. Players use iconic abilities and new environmental interactions to solve puzzles and defeat formidable bosses. The game maintains the series focus on isolation and atmosphere while introducing modern visual fidelity. This release serves as a triumphant return for one of the most beloved franchises in the Nintendo catalog.

‘Monster Hunter Wilds’ (2025)

Capcom developed and published this expansive hunting game which hit shelves on February 28, 2025. Players venture into a living world where weather cycles and ecosystem shifts directly impact the behavior of massive monsters. The title introduces seamless transitions between exploration and combat along with new mounting mechanics. Solo players can utilize AI controlled companions to tackle the most difficult challenges in the Forbidden Lands. It represents the most ambitious entry in the series to date in terms of scale and environmental detail.

‘DOOM The Dark Ages’ (2025)

id Software and Bethesda Softworks released this prequel to the modern reboot series in 2025. The game explores the origins of the Doom Slayer as he battles demonic forces in a dark fantasy setting inspired by the Middle Ages. Players utilize a heavy shield and a variety of medieval themed weaponry to dismantle the armies of Hell. The combat remains fast and brutal while introducing new mechanics like dragon riding and large scale sieges. This title provides a fresh aesthetic for the franchise while retaining its signature intensity.

‘Fable’ (2025)

Playground Games and Xbox Game Studios released this reimagined fantasy epic in the summer of 2025. The game returns players to the land of Albion for a humorous and heroic adventure where choices define the character of the protagonist. Players can specialize in magic or traditional combat while interacting with a quirky cast of inhabitants. The world is filled with mythical creatures and satirical takes on classic fairy tale tropes. This reboot successfully modernizes the franchise while keeping its unique British charm intact.

‘South of Midnight’ (2025)

Compulsion Games and Xbox Game Studios launched this third person action adventure in 2025. Set in a fictionalized version of the American South, the story follows Hazel as she hunts mythical creatures from regional folklore. The game features a striking stop motion art style and a world filled with Southern Gothic atmosphere. Players use magical weaving abilities to navigate the environment and subdue supernatural threats. This title offers a distinct narrative experience rooted in culture and music.

‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ (2025)

Ubisoft released this historical epic set in feudal Japan on February 14, 2025. Players alternate between a shinobi named Naoe and a legendary samurai named Yasuke to navigate a world in transition. The game introduces a seasonal system that changes the landscape and affects gameplay strategies throughout the year. Combat and stealth mechanics are tailored to the strengths of the two distinct protagonists. This installment delivers a highly requested setting with the scale and detail expected of the franchise.

‘Pokémon Legends Z-A’ (2025)

Game Freak and Nintendo published this new entry in the experimental series in 2025. The story is centered entirely within Lumiose City during an ambitious urban redevelopment project. Players work to create a space where humans and Pokémon can coexist peacefully within the metropolitan environment. Mega Evolution makes a return as a core mechanic during tactical battles and exploration. This title offers a more focused and structured approach to the open world formula established in previous entries.

‘Sid Meier’s Civilization VII’ (2025)

Firaxis Games and 2K Games launched the latest installment of this legendary strategy series on February 11, 2025. The game introduces significant changes to the era progression system and allows players to build civilizations through distinct historical layers. Solo players can compete against advanced AI leaders who possess unique personalities and diplomatic agendas. The visual presentation has been completely overhauled to show more life and activity within individual city tiles. This entry continues the tradition of deep strategy while streamlining complex management systems.

‘Avowed’ (2025)

Obsidian Entertainment and Xbox Game Studios released this first person fantasy role playing game on February 18, 2025. Set in the world of Eora, the story tasks players with investigating a mysterious plague known as the Dream Scourge. Combat blends melee weapons and powerful spells with a focus on elemental interactions and player choice. The narrative features branching paths and moral dilemmas that significantly impact the inhabitants of the Living Lands. This title showcases the studio talent for deep world building and character driven storytelling.

‘Kingdom Come Deliverance II’ (2025)

Warhorse Studios and Deep Silver released this realistic medieval sequel on February 11, 2025. Henry of Skalitz returns to navigate the political turmoil and brutal warfare of fifteenth century Bohemia. The game emphasizes historical accuracy in its combat and social systems while offering a vast and detailed open world. Players must manage their reputation and skills to survive in a society where every action has consequences. This sequel expands on the original vision with improved visuals and a more epic narrative scale.

‘Like a Dragon Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’ (2025)

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and Sega released this unconventional spin off on February 21, 2025. Goro Majima takes the lead role in a high seas adventure after washing up on a remote island with no memory. The gameplay combines traditional brawler combat with ship management and naval exploration across the Pacific. Players can recruit a crew and customize their vessel while searching for legendary treasures and missing allies. This title brings the signature humor and drama of the series to a brand new setting.

‘Mafia The Old Country’ (2025)

Hangar 13 and 2K Games released this prequel which explores the origins of organized crime in early twentieth century Sicily. The narrative provides a gritty look at the rise of the mob through the eyes of a young protagonist caught in a cycle of violence. Players engage in stealth and intense gunfights across beautifully rendered historical landscapes. The game focuses on a more linear and cinematic storytelling approach compared to its predecessors. It serves as a stark and atmospheric return to the roots of the franchise.

‘Borderlands 4’ (2025)

Gearbox Software and 2K Games launched the next chapter of the famous looter shooter in late 2025. Players choose from a new roster of Vault Hunters to explore a mysterious planet far beyond the reaches of Pandora. The game features millions of unique weapons and a refined skill tree system for deep character customization. The narrative maintains the signature irreverent humor while introducing a darker and more personal conflict. This entry delivers the high octane action and loot focused gameplay that fans have come to expect.

‘The First Berserker Khazan’ (2025)

Neople and Nexon published this hardcore action role playing game in early 2025. Based on the Dungeon and Fighter universe, the game tells the story of an exiled general seeking vengeance against his betrayers. Players master a variety of weapons and devastating skills in challenging encounters against massive foes. The art style combines stylized animation with gritty realism to create a unique visual identity. It offers a punishing but rewarding experience for fans of demanding combat games.

‘Little Nightmares III’ (2025)

Supermassive Games and Bandai Namco Entertainment released the third installment of this horror series in 2025. Players control two new characters named Low and Alone as they attempt to escape a distorted world known as the Spiral. The game can be played entirely solo with an AI partner to solve complex environmental puzzles and avoid terrifying residents. Each protagonist possesses a unique tool that must be used strategically to survive the many threats. This entry continues the tradition of unsettling atmosphere and wordless storytelling.

‘Wuchang Fallen Feathers’ (2025)

Leibu Games and 505 Games released this dark fantasy action game in 2025. Set in the late Ming Dynasty, the narrative follows a cursed pirate warrior battling supernatural forces and corrupt officials. The gameplay emphasizes timing and precision in swordplay while incorporating magical abilities tied to the protagonist’s affliction. Players explore haunting landscapes inspired by Chinese history and mythology while uncovering the secrets of a mysterious plague. This title offers a challenging experience with a distinct cultural aesthetic.

‘Hell is Us’ (2025)

Rogue Factor and Nacon launched this atmospheric action adventure in late 2025. The game takes place in a country torn apart by civil war and a mysterious supernatural phenomenon that has birthed strange creatures. Players must find their own way through the world without traditional quest markers or map icons. Survival depends on keen observation and the tactical use of specialized equipment to fight invisible threats. This title encourages deep immersion and organic exploration in a bleak and unforgiving world.

‘InZOI’ (2025)

Krafton released this highly detailed life simulation game in late 2025. Players take on the role of a godlike entity managing the lives and interactions of virtual inhabitants in a realistic urban environment. The game features deep customization tools for characters and buildings along with a complex social AI system. Users can influence the career paths and relationships of their residents while watching the city evolve over time. This title provides a visually stunning alternative in the simulation genre with a focus on realism.

‘Eternal Strands’ (2025)

Yellow Brick Games released this third person action adventure in 2025. Players control Brynn as she seeks to reclaim the cultural home of her people by battling massive magical constructs. The game features a robust physics system where players can climb any surface and use elemental magic to manipulate the environment. Combat involves a mix of strategic spellcasting and agile melee attacks against towering foes. This title emphasizes player creativity and emergent gameplay in a vibrant fantasy world.

‘Atomfall’ (2025)

Rebellion released this survival action game in March 2025. Set in the aftermath of a nuclear disaster in Northern England, players must scavenge for resources and deal with hostile factions. The world is filled with eerie British folklore and Cold War paranoia that creates a tense atmosphere. Players utilize a mix of stealth and ranged combat to navigate a countryside teeming with secrets and danger. This title offers a unique take on the post apocalyptic genre with a distinct regional flavor.

‘Clair Obscur Expedition 33’ (2025)

Sandfall Interactive and Kepler Interactive released this turn based role playing game in 2025. Players lead a group of survivors on a desperate mission to destroy the Paintress before she erases more of humanity. The combat system features real time defensive and offensive mechanics that keep players engaged during tactical encounters. The visual design is inspired by the Belle Époque era and features surreal landscapes and creatures. This title combines classic genre elements with modern presentation and innovative mechanics.

‘The Midnight Walk’ (2025)

Moonbeam Studio released this dark fantasy adventure in 2025. The game features a unique art style where every asset was handcrafted from clay and scanned into the digital world. Players guide a small creature through a dangerous forest using a flame to light the way and ward off threats. The narrative explores themes of light and shadow through a wordless and atmospheric journey. This title offers a visually stunning and tactile experience that stands out in the adventure genre.

‘Tales of the Shire’ (2025)

Wētā Workshop and Private Division released this cozy life simulation game in early 2025. Set in the world of Middle earth, players take on the role of a Hobbit building a peaceful life in the town of Bywater. Activities include gardening and fishing and cooking elaborate meals for the local community. The game focuses on relaxation and social interaction rather than combat or high stakes conflict. This title provides a charming and gentle way to experience the legendary lore of the Shire.

‘Vampire The Masquerade Bloodlines 2’ (2025)

The Chinese Room and Paradox Interactive released this long awaited role playing sequel in 2025. Players take on the role of an elder vampire navigating the political factions and dark alleys of modern Seattle. The narrative allows for deep specialization in different vampiric disciplines that affect both combat and dialogue. Choices made throughout the story have significant consequences for the city and its immortal inhabitants. This title delivers a dark and mature narrative experience rooted in the World of Darkness.

‘Hollow Knight Silksong’ (2025)

Team Cherry released this massive sequel to their legendary metroidvania in 2025. Players control Hornet as she ascends through a brand new kingdom filled with over one hundred and fifty unique enemies. The combat is faster and more agile than the original game with a focus on silk based abilities and tools. Exploration is rewarded with deep lore and challenging secret areas hidden throughout the vast map. This title provides a dense and rewarding experience for fans of difficult platforming and exploration.

‘The Alters’ (2025)

11 bit studios released this science fiction survival game in 2025. Jan Dolski must create alternative versions of himself to survive on a hostile planet and repair his base. Each alter has its own personality and skills based on different choices Jan made in his past life. Players must manage the social dynamics and conflicting needs of these versions of themselves while gathering resources. This title explores deep philosophical questions about identity and the paths not taken.

‘Lost Records Bloom and Rage’ (2025)

Don’t Nod released this narrative adventure from the creators of Life is Strange in early 2025. The story follows four high school friends who reunite twenty seven years after a mysterious event changed their lives forever. Players navigate two different timelines to uncover the truth about what happened during that fateful summer. Choices made in the past and present affect the relationships and final outcome of the story. This title delivers a grounded and emotional narrative focused on character growth and mystery.

‘Wanderstop’ (2025)

Ivy Road and Annapurna Interactive released this unique blend of management and narrative in 2025. Players control a former warrior named Alta who is now trying to run a peaceful tea shop in a magical forest. The gameplay involves brewing tea and tending to customers while Alta struggles with her violent past. The story explores the difficulty of moving on from a life of conflict to find a new purpose. This title offers a thoughtful and cozy experience with a deeper emotional core.

‘Lunar Remastered Collection’ (2025)

GungHo Online Entertainment and Game Arts released this updated collection of classic role playing games in 2025. The package includes remastered versions of Silver Star Story and Eternal Blue with updated visuals and audio. Players follow the journey of Alex as he strives to become a legendary Dragonmaster and save the world from evil. The games retain their classic turn based combat and iconic animated cutscenes from the original releases. This collection allows a new generation to experience these foundational titles of the genre.

‘Gex Trilogy’ (2025)

Limited Run Games and Carbon Engine released this remastered collection of the classic platforming series in 2025. The lizard with a love for television returns in all three of his original adventures with improved resolution and performance. Players jump through various movie and television themed worlds while delivering snarky one liners and collecting items. The collection includes new quality of life features like save states and rewind functionality. This release serves as a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of mascot platformers.

Share your favorite single player experiences from the past year in the comments.