Square Enix Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Game of the Year 2025: Who’s the Front Runner After the GTA 6 Delay?

ByJCDynasolutions@gmail.com

The gaming community was electric about Grand Theft Auto 6 dominating 2025, but Rockstar Games threw a curveball by delaying it to May 2026. Suddenly, the Game of the Year race is wide open, and other titles are stepping into the spotlight. I’ve been following this shift closely, and it’s exciting to see what’s emerging. For more gaming updates, check out Total Apex Gaming’s news section. So, who’s the front runner for Game of the Year 2025 now? Let’s break it down.

The GTA 6 Delay Shakes Things Up

When Rockstar announced the GTA 6 delay, it felt like a gut punch to fans like me who’d been counting the days. They’re taking extra time to polish it, which makes sense given their track record. But this move has cleared the stage for other games to shine in 2025. You can read more about it in IGN’s report. It’s a rare chance for smaller studios and new releases to grab the Game of the Year title.

Top Contenders for Game of the Year

Split Fiction March game releases, Game of the Year
Image from Split Fiction, Courtesy of Hazelight Studios

Without GTA 6 in the mix, three games are pulling ahead as the ones to watch:

  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33: This indie RPG caught my eye with its stunning visuals and deep story. It mixes turn-based combat with real-time twists, all set in a hauntingly beautiful world. Critics are calling it a masterpiece, and it’s topping charts on Metacritic. Check out the buzz in Forbes’ review.
  • Split Fiction: From the team behind It Takes Two, this co-op adventure blends sci-fi and fantasy in a way that’s fresh and fun. I’ve heard friends rave about how it’s perfect for gaming nights. It’s sitting at a solid 91 on Metacritic—pretty impressive. See what IGN’s review has to say.
  • Blue Prince: This one’s a surprise hit. Its roguelite puzzles and shifting manor setting hooked me right away. With a Metascore of 92, it’s got serious Game of the Year potential. Polygon’s take dives into why it’s turning heads.

Other Games to Watch

The top three aren’t the only ones in the running. A couple more could sneak into the Game of the Year conversation:

  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: This RPG’s gritty world and rich story have earned it an 88 on Metacritic. I’m a sucker for its historical vibe, and it’s got a loyal fanbase. Take a look at Metacritic’s review page.
  • Metroid Prime 4: Beyond: Nintendo’s keeping us waiting until late 2025, but if it’s anything like past Metroid games, it could steal the show. I’ve got high hopes—check updates on Nintendo’s site.

Final Thoughts

The GTA 6 delay has turned the Game of the Year 2025 race into a nail-biter. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Split Fiction, and Blue Prince are out front, but Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond could shake things up. Honestly, I’m torn—each game brings something unique. What’s your pick? Drop your thoughts below and keep up with the latest at Total Apex Gaming. This year’s awards are going to be wild!

More Great Content