As we hit the midway mark of 2025, let’s dive into the most acclaimed video games released this year! Despite the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 being pushed to next year, the gaming landscape in 2025 is still bursting with excitement. From fresh takes on beloved franchises to imaginative new IPs, gamers are in for a treat!

January started slowly, but the momentum shifted dramatically with a wave of game launches that have kept the thrills coming month after month. With six months still ahead, here's a sneak peek at the titles that are already dominating the ratings—and likely to remain on top.

The Cream of the Crop: 2025’s Highest-Rated Games

According to OpenCritic, a trusted review aggregator, here are the standout titles, all boasting at least 20 reviews and a remarkable rating, excluding early access games, remasters, and ports. So, here they are in all their glory:

1. **Clair Obscur: Expedition 33** – 92 2. **Death Stranding 2: On the Beach** – 90 3. **Split Fiction** – 90 4. **Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2** – 89 5. **Blue Prince** – 89 6. **Monster Hunter Wilds** – 89 7. **Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo** – 89 8. **Keep Driving** – 89 9. **StarVaders** – 88 10. **Monster Train 2** – 88

At the top of the list is **Clair Obscur: Expedition 33**, which is a phenomenal experience praised for its captivating soundtrack, immersive storyline, and a tactical turn-based combat system. This title is a serious contender for Game of the Year!

Joining the elite 90+ club are **Death Stranding 2: On the Beach**, crafted by Hideo Kojima, and **Split Fiction** from Josef Fares. The former elevates the studio’s cinematic open-world style while the latter offers a cooperative escapade that beautifully merges sci-fi and fantasy.

Although just shy of the 90 mark, **Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2** deserves a shout-out for its intense medieval RPG experience that builds on the original's cult status with significant upgrades. Additionally, **Blue Prince**, rated at 89, is a first-person puzzle adventure with roguelike elements that keeps players glued to their screens.

If you’re on the hunt for some incredible new gaming experiences this year, these top-rated titles offer a diverse range of genres and gameplay experiences you won’t want to miss!