Our Top 10 Picks From Summer Game Fest 2025 (Plus 3 Honorable Mentions)

Whoa, where do I even start with this whirlwind of a gaming fest? The annual Summer Game Fest in LA just wrapped up, and yep, I was there, flying amidst a storm of game demos that ranged from the quirky indie side to the big, blockbuster giants. Honestly, it was like a buffet where you keep piling your plate but never reach dessert. But hey, let’s dive right into the noise.

### Honorable Mentions, Because Why Not?

You know those games you catch just a glimpse of, and you’re left wanting more? Yeah, I hit a bunch of those, eyes wide but no hands-on action. Resident Evil Requiem? Spooky vibes galore, tension you could cut with a knife. It’s like Capcom’s upping the fear factor here, first- or third-person view, whatever tickles your fancy. Onimusha: Way of the Sword is playing with folklore and combat like it’s nobody’s business—and I’m here for it.

Oh, Directive 8020. Sweat was literally dripping down my back while dodging a freaky space monster. Totally limited gameplay, but who cares when you’re living that stress life, right?

### Bandit Trap: Memories of Forgotten Consoles

As a loyal fan of the forgotten Wii U (am I the only one?), Bandit Trap’s asymmetrical play gave me all the feels. It’s like Home Alone meets a cartoon heist. Three bandits, one trapper, and pure chaos. It’s so charmingly nuts.

### Crimson Desert: Naming is Hard

Crimson Desert sounds like an RPG you’ve heard of, but hey, if you look past the generic title, you’ll stumble into a sprawling world. Reminded me of The Witcher and Zelda rolled into one… kind of messy, but what’s an RPG without a touch of chaos?

### Deadpool VR: My Inner Comic Nerd is Jumping

Deadpool VR, you glorious oddball. Twisted Pixel is back with something… different. It’s chaotic, it’s cheeky. Neil Patrick Harris as Deadpool? Didn’t see that coming. Hope it lands on PlayStation VR2 though, fingers crossed.

### Dosa Divas: Because Food is Life

Food games have a secret sauce I can’t resist. Dosa Divas taps into that with RPG elements and cooking madness. Sisters saving the world through flavor? Sign me up. It’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and, my waistband regrets nothing.

### FBC: Firebreak—Not Just Another Shooter

Shooters are a dime a dozen, but somehow FBC: Firebreak is catching eyes. Remedy’s bringing on a different vibe, no tacky in-game purchases either. Sticky Ricky, a boss made of sticky notes, is my new nemesis. Launches soon, June 17—mark your calendars.

### Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound—A Blast from the Past

Remember those frantic side-scrolling games? Ninja Gaiden’s doing it again with Ragebound. Less flashy combos, more speed. Bonus points for appealing to speedrunners. Try it out on Steam if you’re curious.

### Pragmata: Puzzle Party

Five years in the making, Pragmata is finally surfacing. It’s a puzzle shooter, throwing robots, hacking, and Pipe Mania at you all at once. Might just be my new money-drainer, thanks to its real-time brain jams.

### Ratatan: Rhythm & Cuteness Overload

Didn’t experience Patapon back in the PSP days, but Ratatan is making sure I don’t miss out now. It’s catchy, it’s got rhythm, and it’s got enough charm to keep me distracted despite being bad at it.

### Wuchang: Fallen Feathers—For the Brave of Heart

Heads up, Soulslike fans! Wuchang is here to dish out some punishment. I got absolutely slaughtered before finding my groove. Dodging, attacking, all weaving into a magical dance of feathers and fury. Once you get it, you’re hooked—trust me.

Summer Game Fest was a wild ride. Loads to see, not enough hands or time. Can’t wait to dive deeper into some of these quirky wonders. Until next time, game on!