The Nextlander Podcast 230: Game of the Year 2025, Part 2
Jan 1, 2026
In a thrilling wrap-up, the hosts reveal their top four games of the year, diving deep into each choice. Brad praises the ship management of 'Void Crew', while Vinny is hooked by the challenge loop in 'Hollow Knight Silksong'. Alex talks about the cooperative appeal of 'Abiotic Factor'. The conversation flows into impressive visuals of 'Keeper' and the immersive experience of 'Skin Deep'. They also share exciting honorable mentions and touch on games that didn’t meet expectations, all while pondering what the next gaming year may bring.
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Group Deductions Carried By A Friend
- Vinny recounts streaming and solving The Root Trees Are Dead with friends and credits Abby Russell for carrying deductions.
- He calls it one of the year's most approachable and engaging deduction games.
VR Can Be The Definitive Mode For Some Games
- Luminous Arise demonstrates how VR can transform a synesthetic music-visual puzzle into a transcendent experience.
- Optional VR modes can nonetheless become the defining way fans choose to play.
FMV Narrative Meets Tactical Dispatching
- Dispatch revitalizes FMV/narrative dispatch mechanics by blending high production values with player-impact choices.
- Tactical hero pairing and episodic pacing keep story momentum while making choices feel meaningful.