Game Pass Game of the Year 2025

After a year packed with Game Pass drops, sequels, surprises, and a few wild swings, it is time to settle it. This is our Game of the Year 2025 episode.

In this special episode of Game Pass or Pass, we break down every game that made our final nomination list and debate which one truly defined 2025 not just on paper but in how it felt to play.

Our Game of the Year 2025 nominees are
Balatro
Clair Obscur Expedition 33
PowerWash Simulator 2
Monster Train 2
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 and 4
Lost in Random The Eternal Die
Avowed
Ball X Pit
Doom The Dark Ages
Atomfall
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

We discuss
Why each of these games earned a nomination
Which titles surprised us the most
How Game Pass shaped our time with many of these games
The difference between most impressive and most unforgettable
And which game ultimately rose above the rest

This episode is not about consensus. It is about perspective. Whether you agree with our final pick or think we are completely wrong, this is our full breakdown of what made 2025 such a memorable year for gaming.

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