It’s been an incredible year for video games in 2025, and I’m here to round up the must-have titles for the holiday season. From epic adventures to pulse-pounding action, these standout games are perfect picks for gifting or treating yourself to a little end-of-year fun. Whether you’re shopping for a hardcore gamer, a family-friendly experience, or someone who loves co-op thrills, here are some go-to picks for the gift-giving season. Let’s dive into my top titles for the holidays:
Give the gift of action experiences
For the thrill-seekers on your list, these games deliver excitement, cinematic worlds, and unforgettable battles. From stealthy samurai missions to futuristic warfare, there’s something here for every fan of action and adventure.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC
Developer: Ubisoft Québec
Publisher: Ubisoft
Genre: Action-Adventure / Open World
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Set in feudal Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows gives you the chance to play in dual roles of a shinobi and a legendary samurai. Explore a beautiful open world, filled with intrigue, stealth, and combat. The game blends classic Assassin’s Creed exploration and one of Ubisoft’s most detailed and fully realized worlds yet. It’s a great gift for fans of open-world adventures and cinematic storytelling.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC
Developer: Treyarch & Raven Software
Publisher: Activision
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Modes: Campaign, Multiplayer, Co-op, Zombies
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Black Ops 7 takes you into the near future, where conflict pushes you into psychological warfare and high-tech combat. Featuring a single-player campaign, multiplayer, and a new Zombies mode, this installment promises to be one of the most action-packed yet. If the mature gamer on your list loves shooters and online multiplayer, this would make a great gift.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Developer: Kojima Productions
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre: Action-Adventure / Exploration
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
The sequel to the groundbreaking Death Stranding expands the mysterious post-apocalyptic world with larger environments, new mechanics, and an excellent story. You play as Sam Porter Bridges, journeying across stunning landscapes to unravel mysteries in a reality-bending world. This is a great gift for PlayStation 5 owners who appreciate cinematic storytelling, quirky characters and surreal world-building.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
Developer: id Software
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
The iconic DOOM franchise goes medieval, literally! Pick up your Dreadmace and get ready to go head-to-head with demonic hordes. You’ll have a mix of futuristic tech and medieval weaponry at your disposal. Combining tank-like combat with over-the-top visuals and a heavy-metal aesthetic. This is a great gift idea for mature gamers on your list who are looking for gory, over-the-top, adrenaline-fueled battles.
Ninja Gaiden 4
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
Developer: Team Ninja
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
Genre: Action
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
The legendary Ninja Gaiden series returns with modern visuals, brutal combat, and deep mechanics. Featuring a new protagonist, you’ll face fierce enemies in a stylish mix of acrobatics and precision swordplay. If you are looking for an action experience with challenging gameplay and cinematic intensity, Ninja Gaiden 4 is a great pick.
Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox, and PC
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Games
Genre: Fighting
Modes: Single-player, Local & Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Release Date: December 12th 2025
This collection celebrates over three decades of Mortal Kombat history. It bundles 11 core classic titles, remastered visuals, and exclusive content for longtime fans and newcomers alike. If you’ve got a fan of fighting games on your list, this action-packed choice checks all the boxes.
Metroid Prime 4 : Beyond
Platforms: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Developer: Retro Studios
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: First-Person Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
Release Date: December 4th 2025
Samus Aran returns in a bold new chapter of the Metroid Prime saga. You’ll be able to explore uncharted alien worlds, solve puzzles, and uncover hidden secrets in one of Nintendo’s most ambitious sci-fi adventures yet. If you have a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 owner on your list who loves sci-fi shooters and exploration, this is a must-play.
Family friendly video game ideas
Looking for games that the whole family can enjoy? These titles are bright, merry, and joyful fun for players of all ages. Whether it’s platforming with Astro Bot, racing with Kirby, or adventuring with Donkey Kong, each game delivers laughter and family entertainment. Let’s unlock some family fun:
Astro Bot
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Developer: Team Asobi
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre: Platformer / Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and up)
Astro Bot is one of the most creative 3D platformers I’ve ever played, bursting with imagination. You guide Astro through colourful worlds, discovering hidden secrets and transforming with creative new abilities. It’s a joyful, family-friendly adventure that is sure to win over the whole family this holiday season.
Donkey Kong Bananza
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2
Developer / Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Platformer / Party
Modes: Single-player, Local Co-op
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Donkey Kong swings back into action, digging deep into mines to unearth plenty of fun. Featuring couch co-op, puzzles, and destructible environments, DK and friends set out on an incredible adventure packed with action and plenty of charm. It’s the ideal adventure for families and younger players who love classic Nintendo adventures.
Kirby Air Riders
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2
Developer/Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Racing
Modes: Single-player, Local & Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Release Date: November 20th 2025
Kirby returns to the skies in this colourful, fast-paced racer. Glide, dash, and spin your way to victory across dreamlike tracks filled with power-ups and surprises.
Mario Kart World
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2
Developer / Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Racing
Modes: Local & Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Mario Kart races onto the Nintendo Switch 2, featuring all-new tracks, expanded customization, and worldwide online play. Race your friends or family in the most feature-packed entry yet. This is always a holiday favourite in my household and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with up to 4-player support, with an extra set of Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Controllers.
Split Fiction
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC
Developer: Hazelight Studios
Genre: Puzzle / Adventure / Co-op
Modes: Single-player, Local & Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E10+
A clever co-op action/puzzle game where you must play through elements of a story across split dimensions. One moment you’ll be battling aliens, the next orcs in a medieval village. This co-op-only experience offers creative storytelling and teamwork, making it essential for shared play. It’s a perfect title for families or groups of friends who enjoy playing together.
Action RPG adventures
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Developer: Sandfall Interactive
Publisher: Kepler Interactive
Genre: Action RPG
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
This stunning turn-based action RPG seamlessly blends painterly visuals with a deep narrative. Embark on a haunting journey through surreal landscapes to save humanity from extinction. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a masterpiece and shouldn’t be missed by RPG fans who love strategy and narrative depth.
Ghost of Yotei
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Developer: Sucker Punch Productions
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre: Action Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Ghost of Yotei tells the tale of a lone mercenary named Atsu, who is on a path of revenge against those who killed her family. The epic adventure seamlessly blends stealth, exploration, and cinematic combat in a breathtaking open world. For those who loved Ghost of Tsushima, or are picking up the katana for the first time, this is a must-play.
The Outer Worlds 2
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
Genre: Sci-Fi Action RPG
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
The cult-favourite sci-fi adventure returns with larger worlds, sharper writing, and expanded customization options. Choice and consequence drive every moment of this witty, interstellar RPG. If the gamer on your list enjoys humour, exploration, and role-playing freedom, The Outer Worlds 2 is an adventure they’ll love.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Platforms: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Developer: Game Freak
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Action RPG
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and up)
The Pokémon series takes a bold step forward with Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Explore Lumiose City in a fully open world, capture plus and battle Pokémon in real-time in a whole new adventure. If you’ve got any Pokémon fans on your holiday list, collectors, or someone looking for classic RPG fun, I highly recommend this latest Poke-adventure.
Top holiday sports picks
For the sports fan on your list, these games bring the thrill of the game right to the living room. From the field to the rink, this year’s top sports titles deliver an authentic experience for every type of fan.
EA Sports FC 26
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch
Developer / Publisher: EA Sports / Electronic Arts
Genre: Sports
Modes: Single-player, Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
The beautiful game returns virtually in FC 26. Featuring new animations, smarter AI, and improved modes. Build your ultimate team and compete globally on the pitch.
Madden NFL 26
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC
Developer / Publisher: EA Tiburon / Electronic Arts
Genre: Sports
Modes: Single-player, Franchise, Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Madden NFL 26 brings more control, smarter play-calling, and next-gen presentation to the gridiron. Take your favourite team all the way to the Super Bowl or start your own career in Superstar mode.
NHL 26
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Developer/Publisher: EA Sports
Genre: Sports
Modes: Single-player, Franchise, Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
The latest NHL entry skates onto consoles with improved physics, lifelike arenas, and better team AI. With a revamped “Be a Pro” mode offering a new story, it’s the ultimate pick for hockey fans.
MLB The Show 25
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Developer / Publisher: San Diego Studio / Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre: Sports (Baseball)
Modes: Single-player, Franchise, Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Step up to the plate with MLB The Show 25. Enhanced visuals, deeper franchise management, and cross-platform play make this the definitive baseball experience for the holidays.
Give the gift of gaming
Wrap up the holidays with the joy of play. Whether it’s epic adventures, couch co-op fun, or sports showdowns, these are my top picks for some essential gaming fun for the festive season.
Check out Best Buy’s full selection of video games and accessories to make this holiday one to remember.
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