According to Ars Technica, the games that truly stood out were those that "seemed to come out of nowhere." These included a roguelike puzzle game defying categorization, a challenging mountainous walking simulator, a Geometry Wars-inspired title considered the best in years, and a collection of mini-games exploring the complexities of adolescence.

The inclusion of Civilization 7 marks another strong showing for the strategy franchise, continuing its legacy of engaging gameplay and intricate world-building, reminiscent of the series' peak performance in the early 2000s. Avowed, the fantasy RPG, also made the cut, showcasing strong player performance with its immersive world and compelling narrative. Doom: The Dark Ages, the latest installment in the iconic first-person shooter series, delivered its signature high-octane action, proving its enduring appeal to both veteran and new players.

Notably absent from the list is Grand Theft Auto 6, which had been heavily anticipated for a 2025 release but was delayed into 2026. This delay mirrors similar setbacks in the past for other major titles, highlighting the challenges of game development and the pressure to meet player expectations.

Looking ahead to 2026, Ars Technica anticipates another year filled with big-budget projects, with Grand Theft Auto 6 leading the charge. The publication suggests that if 2025 is any indication, the coming year will also bring its share of unexpected surprises and innovative titles.