The thrill of discovering the ultimate gaming experiences on PS5 has never been more intense—let's dive into Liam Croft's handpicked top 5 games for 2025, where innovation and nostalgia collide in ways that could change how you play forever. But here's where it gets controversial: these picks aren't just about fun; they challenge what we think makes a game 'great,' sparking debates on legacy titles versus fresh takes. Buckle up as we explore Liam's favorites, complete with insights that even newcomers can grasp easily.
Our series of personal Game of the Year pieces lets our talented crew of writers and editors reveal their unique PS5 selections for 2025. Up next is our dedicated assistant editor, Liam Croft (check out his profile at https://www.pushsquare.com/authors/LiamCroft), ready to share his must-play list.
Starting at number 5: Elden Ring Nightreign (for more details, visit https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/eldenringnightreign). This game hooked me like no other this year, thanks to its inventive run-based approach that twists the classic FromSoftware formula into something endlessly replayable. For beginners, think of it as level-based challenges with a strict time limit that amps up the adrenaline—every session feels fresh with its diverse Nightfarers (characters you can mix and match for strategic team play). The constant hurdles keep you coming back, blending tough gameplay with pure joy. And this is the part most people miss: I believe many of these gameplay tweaks and enhancements will influence FromSoftware's upcoming projects, making this a bold evolution that strengthens their single-player adventures down the line.
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Number 4 brings us Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater (learn more at https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/metalgearssoliddeltasnake_eater). As a die-hard fan of the Metal Gear Solid series, this reimagined version of one of its finest entries feels like a secret hack straight from Konami. It's incredibly faithful, reusing every cutscene and voice line from the 2004 classic, yet it delivers a flawless update for today's hardware. The graphics and controls are a massive upgrade, but when the heart of the game—the gripping stealth, story, and innovation—remains unbeatable, that's the winning formula. Welcome back, Snake; it's fantastic to relive this masterpiece in modern glory.
At number 3, we have Ghost of Yotei (explore it here: https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/ghostofyotei). Not every sequel aims to revolutionize; some focus on polishing and elevating the original. That's precisely what Ghost of Yotei does as a PS5 sequel, skillfully enhancing Ghost of Tsushima (including its Director's Cut—see https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/ghostoftsushimadirectorscut), which I personally felt was a bit overhyped. But here's where it gets controversial: Is the first game truly overrated, or is this follow-up just that much better? Ghost of Yotei excels in open-world freedom, delivering more satisfying exploration, refined combat that feels empowering, breathtaking visuals, and a captivating narrative. It's consistently outstanding, making it one of my top joys for 2025—proving sequels can outshine their predecessors without reinventing the wheel.
Climbing to number 2 is Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (dive into it at https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/deathstranding2onthe_beach). If you know my gaming preferences, you'll understand why any Hideo Kojima creation tops my list, and this one didn't let me down. Streamlined compared to the original, it lets the narrative, immersive atmosphere, and soundtrack take center stage as Sam Porter Bridges journeys through Australia. Even with easier paths across the vast landscape, the gameplay remains uniquely engaging—think of it as a blend of peaceful delivery missions and intense action that's rare in gaming. Improved combat options create smooth shifts between travel and battles, and enhanced traversal tools ensure you're always equipped to tackle challenges. All in all, it's a masterpiece from Kojima Productions that pushes boundaries.
And finally, claiming the top spot: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (read up on it at https://www.pushsquare.com/games/ps5/clairobscurexpedition_33). We all recognize just how extraordinary this title is—it's almost unbelievable to look back at the review embargo, when I knew its brilliance but couldn't shout it from the rooftops. Six months on, the hype is real, and it's richly deserved. Your quest to defeat the enigmatic Paintress unfolds as one of the most distinctive and endearing RPGs in recent memory. The turn-based battles dazzle with parries and flashy maneuvers (easy to pick up for novices, like timing blocks and counters in rhythm games), the world pulses with vibrant charm, and the characters—voiced with such personality—leave an unforgettable mark. This Sandfall Interactive gem has lingered with me all year, ticking every box I crave in a game. No surprise it's my Game of the Year.
What are your thoughts on Liam's top 5 PS5 games for 2025? Do you agree with his choices, or do you think some titles deserve a higher spot—or maybe even a spot on the list? For instance, is reviving classics like Metal Gear Solid Delta a stroke of genius, or does it undermine the need for fresh stories? And on the flip side, could sequels like Ghost of Yotei really surpass their originals, or is that just rose-tinted bias? Share your agreements, disagreements, or wild takes in the comments below—let's keep the conversation going!
