The gaming industry has seen a whirlwind of events in 2025, often being described as a mixed bag. Despite challenges such as layoffs and rising AI concerns, there were notable successes in new hardware and exciting indie games. In the spirit of reflection, various categories of acknowledgment were established, offering a humorous take on the year's highs and lows. From Nintendo's impressive logistics concerning the Switch 2 launch to the rocky journey of Civilization 7, both industry giants and newcomers alike faced their share of ups and downs. Obsidian Entertainment stood out with its steady output of engaging games, and AI's role in gaming sparked debate and concern. Overall, the year closed with the anticipation of what's to come in 2026.

What were the standout moments in the gaming industry for 2025?

Major highlights included Nintendo's innovative launch strategy for the Switch 2, Obsidian's successful game releases, and Firaxis's diligence in improving Civilization 7. The year also witnessed significant challenges around AI integration in gaming and risks facing the MMORPG genre.

This year marks an important moment in gaming as fan-favorite titles like Civilization continue to evolve, and iconic studios like Obsidian persist in delivering quality experiences. The industry's dynamics are certainly shifting, fueled by both technological advances and changing player expectations. With constant engagement from gamers and the community, the landscape is set to undergo more exciting transformations as we step into 2026.