Josh Coffman’s Top 10 Games of 2025…So Far

 

Josh shares his favorites from the year, so far.

10. Honkai: Starrail


"...a man without fear cannot be wise."

I know it’s a gacha, but it hits all the right points of a JRPG. They even just released their latest collab with Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works. Of course, I have my Archer and Saber on my team.

9. Axiom Verge


That’s a nice-looking boss

Finally went back to play this one as it has been on my play log for quite some time. Love the theme and story, level design is great, and it’s a Metroidvania (which is my go-to genre). I look forward to completing this one and working on its sequel later

8. Monster Hunter Wilds


Borderline NSFW

Monster Hunter normally isn’t on my list of must-haves. However, this game is so damn beautiful, I had to interact with the world as much as possible. I mean, the food alone made me hungry. The characters are well-made and would make any weeb go rule 34.

7. Diablo 4


They keep getting bigger

I have been playing a lot of Diablo 4 lately, and I believe it got too much hate on release. Sure, it isn’t Diablo 3, but every series has its “the last one was better” moments. The map is huge, the live events are amazing, and the seamless cross-platform play is done well. I also enjoy the story and all the dungeons I have completed so far.

6. Signalis


Double tap just to be safe

Signalis was a huge hit on my Steam Deck. I am a fan of horror games, and Signalis scratched an itch I have had since I first played the original Resident Evil Trilogy. From the dark corners, the ability to run around enemies, and a matching inventory system to boot. I highly recommend giving Signalis a try, as it is a well-done love letter to that trilogy and has a great plot to boot.

5. Baldur’s Gate 3


Another Dating Sim….kinda

Honestly, finally finding time to play this GOTY winner, and won’t beat a dead horse with details.

4. Alan Wake 2


Things go bump in the dark.

After playing Alan Wake for our book club game, I wanted to keep the ball rolling and decided to finally grab a copy of its sequel (not American Nightmare). I was not only impressed with the changes made, but I have enjoyed every waking moment of it. Saga Anderson is a great new protagonist to put alongside Alan and traverse through Remedy’s Universe.

3. Split Fiction


Best played with friends

Split Fiction was another title Nick and I played this year, and we were blown away by it. The premise is solid, the characters are memorable, and it feels like a new game with each level. Plus, you can share a copy of the game with a friend so they can experience it with you.

2. Robocop: Rogue City


This is my boom stick…

What started as a free game and an interest in everything 80s turned into a wonderful, bloody time. Robocop quickly became an instant hit with me, and I cursed the heavens for not knowing it sooner. It has a lot of Deus Ex and does a great job of giving you a feel for Detroit. Go grab a copy if you haven’t already.

1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33


Parry it!

To be expected after our show. Expedition 33 is one of the greatest Indie games I have ever played. In true JRPG fashion, they stuck the landing with the additions of parrying and dodging. I am still in Act 1, but I plan to finish it on my extended vacation, as I am sure there is so much more to come and enjoy.

 
Joshua Coffman

Co-Founder of Smashing Game Times.

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Nick Coffman’s Top 10 Games of 2025…So Far