Ranking the Top Games We Experienced at Gamescom 2025

Top 10 Games to Look Forward to from Gamescom 2025

In the absence of E3, Gamescom has risen to prominence as the premier gaming conference, seamlessly blending the worlds of gamers, developers, and media. This remarkable event doesn’t merely provide a platform for cosplay enthusiasts and merchandise hunters; it also showcases the most exciting and anticipated gaming projects on the horizon.

Having trekked to the Koelnmesse, I amassed impressive mileage on my pedometer while immersing myself in a variety of extraordinary games that promise to captivate audiences in the weeks and months ahead.

We sampled an extensive array of titles, but we’ve chosen to spotlight the standout experiences. Here are the ten best games we encountered at Gamescom 2025.

While we had recently visited Summer Game Fest, certain noteworthy titles like Capcom’s upcoming projects will not be featured here for that reason. However, we are including titles that impressed us during hands-off sessions as well.

10. Nutmeg

Unbelievable, Jeff!

While my bias may play a role in my enthusiasm, Nutmeg—a football-themed card game—deserves attention. This innovative title melds football management simulation with a top-trumps style deck-builder, reminiscent of collectible Panini stickers, allowing players to dominate the midfield and outsmart opponents.

Set in an era preceding the Premier League’s dominance in English football, Nutmeg is infused with nostalgic references that will resonate with fans of all ages. This game artfully balances in-depth management simulation with a casual, arcade feel, making it a potential time-sink that I eagerly anticipate revisiting.

9. A Storied Life: Tabitha

Your Life in Boxes

For those captivated by the soothing satisfaction of organizing in Unpacking, A Storied Life: Tabitha reimagines this concept, inviting players to pack up belongings of the recently departed. Like its predecessor, the game narrates a poignant story through objects, challenging you to decide whether to sell, keep, or discard them—a task fraught with emotional weight.

If you relish cozy gaming experiences, Tabitha should be high on your wishlist.

8. Cronos: The New Dawn

Such Is Our Calling

Among the standout titles from Gamescom, Cronos offers an early glimpse into its gritty horror narrative. Set in a haunting environment, it deftly combines resource management with engaging combat reminiscent of Dead Space, compelling players to navigate claustrophobic spaces filled with lurking dangers.

With each encounter requiring strategic resource usage and vigilant enemy management, Cronos is shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the horror genre—possibly Bloober Team’s finest work since The Medium.

7. Tides of Tomorrow

Life in Plastic, It’s Fantastic

While I typically shy away from narrative-heavy games filled with multiple endings, Tides of Tomorrow may change that perception. It integrates a ‘save our seas’ theme with an immersive narrative where players confront a world plagued by microplastics—requiring them to secure medication to avoid becoming part of the pollution.

Its emphasis on player-driven narratives and asynchronous multiplayer suggests a unique storytelling approach, effectively highlighting the importance of our collective actions against environmental issues.

6. The Value of Death

Napoleon Dynamite

Fighting Mutated General in Valor Mortis

Having struggled with Ghostrunner, I approached Valor Mortis with some apprehension only to find its gameplay to be a welcome mix of Soulslike mechanics with a slower, more tactical pacing. This title employs a first-person perspective that enhances immersion and complements its dynamic action.

While there are elements that evoke the atmosphere of Bioshock, the game distinctively captures the essence of Soulslike gameplay, leaving players eager for more adventures.

5. There Are No Ghosts at The Grand

Who You Gonna Call?

At Gamescom, I encountered a game that I didn’t expect to be so engaging: There Are No Ghosts at The Grand. Merging elements of House Flipper and Powerwash Simulator with musical theatre, this quirky title charms players with its whimsical writing.

You’ll renovate and beautify a hotel that’s purportedly haunted, with gameplay that also involves capturing ghosts. Fans of musical numbers will undoubtedly find joy in this refreshing experience.

4. Hollow Knight: Silksong

Wipe the Clown Make-up Off

Hollow Knight Silksong at Xbox Gamescom 2025

My long wait for Hollow Knight: Silksong’s demo proved worthwhile. The game retains the charm of its predecessor, featuring the familiar platforming and action-combat that fans adore. With stunning visuals and Christopher Larkin’s exceptional score, it promises a post-launch journey that will be challenging yet rewarding.

While the demo lacked major revelations, my confidence in Team Cherry remains high, and fans won’t have to wait long for the game’s release.

3. Zero Parades

I-Spy a CRPG Masterclass

Despite some trepidation regarding the new iteration of Za/Um, Zero Parades has sparked my interest. Following a tumultuous legal battle, I was skeptical about replicating the nuanced brilliance of Disco Elysium, yet this espionage-themed title shows great promise.

With its distinct art style and engaging narrative, Zero Parades is both familiar and fresh, focusing on a pre-ruined protagonist grappling with themes of history’s end. The developers hinted at a sooner-than-expected release, further amplifying anticipation.

2. The Blood of Dawnwalker

There Will Be Blood

The Blood of Dawnwalker Medieval Cityscape Gameplay

Initially dismissing The Blood of Dawnwalker as just another ‘Vampire Witcher, ’ it quickly revealed itself to be much more. This expansive RPG weaves a dark narrative where vampires dominate, and players embody Coen, a unique character capable of moving between day and night.

The day/night cycle significantly alters gameplay, encouraging diverse strategies to tackle quests. Coupled with fluid combat mechanics and a gripping storyline, this title is poised to offer a deep dive into its rich world.

1. Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival

Pleasures of the Flesh

My lowest expectations were set for Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival, particularly after my experience with Clive Barker’s Jericho. However, among a host of horror games showcased at Gamescom, Hellraiser distinguished itself.

This first-person survival horror title immerses players in Pinhead’s surreal realm. Striking a balance between authentic horror and engaging gameplay, it is both a tribute to the source material and a unique experience. The thoughtful design, atmospheric world, and compelling narrative make this horror title a must-play.

Gamescom 2025 has certainly ushered in an exciting era for gamers, with these titles promising to redefine our gaming experiences. Stay tuned for their releases!

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