Famitsu's Year-End Issue 1929: A Look Back at the Most Popular Games of 2025

The latest issue of Japan's most renowned gaming magazine, Famitsu, has been released, and it comes with a long-awaited tradition – its annual feature on the most popular games played in 2025. This year, 191 industry figures and celebrities came together to share their thoughts on the best games of the past year.

The Methodology

For the umpteenth time, Famitsu asked its readers to weigh in on their favorite games of 2025. The magazine then took the collective opinions of these individuals and used them to create a definitive list of the most popular games of the year. The results are a fascinating glimpse into what made 2025 such an exciting year for gamers.

The Top Games of 2025

After careful consideration, Famitsu has revealed its top picks for the best games of 2025. Here's a look at the top 10:

1. Elden Ring

Developer: FromSoftware Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment

Elden Ring was one of the most highly anticipated games of 2025, and it did not disappoint. This action RPG from the creators of Dark Souls and Sekiro offered a massive open world to explore, a complex gameplay mechanic, and a rich narrative.

2. The Last of Us Part II: Director's Cut

Developer: Naughty Dog Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

This highly acclaimed game was already a favorite among gamers in 2025, and the Director's Cut only added more depth and complexity to the story. The action-adventure game follows Ellie as she navigates a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger and uncertainty.

3. Resident Evil Village: Winters Expasion

Developer: Capcom Publisher: Capcom

Resident Evil Village was a surprise hit in 2025, offering a new take on the classic survival horror formula. The game's creepy atmosphere, combined with its challenging gameplay mechanics, made it a favorite among fans of the series.

4. Hogwarts Legacy

Developer: Avalanche Software Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

This open-world RPG set in the wizarding world of Harry Potter was a highly anticipated release in 2025. The game's engaging story, coupled with its vast open world and diverse gameplay mechanics, made it a must-play for fans of fantasy games.

5. Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut

Developer: Sucker Punch Productions Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

This beautifully designed action-adventure game set in feudal Japan was another fan favorite in 2025. The game's stunning visuals, combined with its challenging gameplay mechanics and rich narrative, made it a standout title.

6. Final Fantasy XVI

Developer: Square Enix Publisher: Square Enix

This latest installment in the iconic Final Fantasy series was highly anticipated in 2025. The game's engaging story, coupled with its unique combat system and stunning visuals, made it a must-play for fans of JRPGs.

7. God of War Ragnarök

Developer: Santa Monica Studio Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

This action-adventure game from the creators of God of War was another favorite among gamers in 2025. The game's engaging story, combined with its challenging gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, made it a standout title.

8. Metroid Prime 4

Developer: Retro Studios Publisher: Nintendo

After years of development, Metroid Prime 4 finally hit the shelves in 2025. The game's engaging story, coupled with its challenging gameplay mechanics and innovative controls, made it a must-play for fans of the series.

9. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Developer: Nintendo Publisher: Nintendo

This latest installment in the iconic Zelda series was highly anticipated in 2025. The game's engaging story, combined with its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, made it a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.

10. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Developer: Game Freak Publisher: Nintendo

These latest installments in the iconic Pokémon series were fan favorites in 2025. The game's engaging story, coupled with its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, made it a must-play for fans of RPGs.

Honorable Mentions

While these 10 games took the top spots, there were several other titles that deserve honorable mentions. Some of the notable mentions include:

• Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II
• Assassin's Creed Valhalla: Dawn of Ragnarök

Industry Insights

The popularity of these games can be attributed to several factors, including their engaging stories, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. However, what really sets them apart is the sense of community that surrounds each title.

According to Famitsu's survey, many fans praised the games for their:

• Replay value: The ability to replay levels, complete side quests, and experiment with different gameplay mechanics.
• Immersive storytelling: The way in which each game's narrative drew players into its world.
• Challenging gameplay: The sense of accomplishment that came from overcoming difficult challenges.

A Look Back at 2025

As we close out the year, it's clear that 2025 was a remarkable year for gamers. From iconic franchises like Final Fantasy and Zelda to new IPs like Hogwarts Legacy and Metroid Prime 4, there were countless titles that left a lasting impression on players.

For Famitsu, this issue is more than just a list of the best games of the year – it's an opportunity to reflect on the gaming industry as a whole. As we look back on 2025, it's clear that gamers are hungry for new experiences and innovative gameplay mechanics.

We can't wait to see what the future holds for these talented developers and publishers. Until next year, gamers!

Final Thoughts

The popularity of games like Elden Ring and The Last of Us Part II: Director's Cut serves as a reminder that, no matter how popular they may be, there's always room for innovation and experimentation in the gaming industry.

As we look ahead to 2026, it's exciting to think about what new titles will capture our hearts and imaginations. Will it be another epic RPG from Square Enix? Perhaps a new IP from a renowned developer?

Whatever the case may be, one thing is certain – the gaming world is always evolving, and there's never been a more exciting time to be a gamer.

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