What Video Game Should I Play? 9 Top Picks for 2025

The digital landscape of gaming is vast and ever-expanding, making the simple question, "What video game should I play?" surprisingly difficult to answer. With thousands of titles released each year across every imaginable genre and platform, finding the perfect match for your mood, schedule, and playstyle can feel overwhelming. You might be searching for the best action games for PS5, the best farming games of 2025, or the top-rated RPG to sink hundreds of hours into. The sheer volume of choices often leads to analysis paralysis, leaving you scrolling through storefronts instead of playing.

This guide is your direct solution. We have meticulously curated a definitive list of exceptional games designed to answer that persistent question. Instead of offering a generic list, we've focused on titles that consistently appear in searches for the best in their class, whether that's for a specific console like the Nintendo Switch or a mobile device running iOS or Android. Each entry is selected not just for its critical acclaim, but for its ability to deliver a specific, sought-after experience.

Our goal is to eliminate the guesswork and connect you directly with a game you’ll love. We will provide practical details on why each game is a standout choice, what kind of player it appeals to, and on which platforms you can find it. Whether you are a hardcore gamer seeking a new challenge, a casual player looking for a fun distraction, or a parent searching for a family-friendly title, your search for what video game to play next ends here. Let's find your next digital adventure.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

If you're asking, "what video game should I play?" and crave an experience defined by boundless freedom and emergent gameplay, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an essential choice. This open-world action-adventure title for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U shattered conventions, offering a vast, stunningly beautiful Hyrule that is almost entirely accessible from the moment you begin. Instead of a linear path, the game encourages curiosity, rewarding you for climbing any mountain, crossing any river, and delving into any mysterious ruin you see.

The core of the experience revolves around a sophisticated physics and chemistry engine. This system allows for creative problem-solving; you can set grass on fire to create an updraft, use metal objects to conduct electricity during a storm, or chop down a tree to create a makeshift bridge. This design philosophy extends to combat and puzzle-solving, ensuring that no two players will have the same journey. Its influence is undeniable, having inspired some of the best action games on platforms like PS5 and PC, including titles such as Genshin Impact.

Is This Game Right for You?

To help you decide if this critically acclaimed title fits your playstyle, the decision tree below breaks down its core mechanics into simple questions.

This flowchart highlights that your enjoyment hinges significantly on your love for self-directed exploration and tolerance for its controversial weapon durability system.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Embrace Exploration: The main story quests are just a suggestion. The real magic is in the unplanned adventures you find by simply picking a direction and going.

• Master the Physics: Experiment constantly. Use your Sheikah Slate abilities in creative ways to solve shrine puzzles and gain the upper hand in combat.

• Plan Your Traversal: Mark points of interest, shrines, and enemy camps on your map. This helps turn the massive world into a manageable and personal adventure.

2. Hades

If your search for "what video game should I play" leads you to a desire for fast-paced action blended with an award-winning story, Hades is the answer. Developed by Supergiant Games, this rogue-like dungeon crawler places you in the role of Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades, as he fights his way out of the Underworld. Unlike many games in the genre where death is a full reset, here it is a core narrative mechanic. Each failed escape attempt sends you back to the beginning but pushes the rich story forward, unlocking new conversations, relationships, and permanent upgrades.

The game's moment-to-moment combat is fluid and responsive, with a variety of weapons that are enhanced by "Boons" gifted by the Olympian gods. These boons dramatically alter your playstyle on each run, ensuring endless replayability and strategic depth. Hades masterfully combines addictive action, compelling characters, and a progression system that respects your time, making it one of the best action games available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Its success is monumental, becoming the first video game ever to win a prestigious Hugo Award.

Is This Game Right for You?

Hades is perfect for players who love a challenge but hate feeling like they've wasted their time when they fail. If you enjoy character-driven stories, dynamic combat, and a game that keeps rewarding you run after run, this is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a linear, single-playthrough story or dislike games that require repeated attempts to make progress, you might find the core loop repetitive.

This game's brilliance lies in how it makes failure an integral and rewarding part of the experience, a design philosophy that has influenced many subsequent indie titles.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Dying is Progress: Don't get discouraged by failed runs. Each death is an opportunity to interact with characters in the House of Hades, spend resources on permanent upgrades, and advance the plot.

• Talk to Everyone: The story unfolds through conversations. Make sure to speak with every character you can between escape attempts to uncover new lore, quests, and deepen your relationships.

• Experiment with Boons: Don't stick to one "build." The fun of Hades is discovering powerful and unexpected synergies between different Olympian boons. Mix and match to find what works for you.

3. Red Dead Redemption 2

If your answer to "what video game should I play?" involves a desire for an incredibly detailed world and a cinematic, character-driven story, then Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece you cannot miss. Developed by Rockstar Games, this open-world action-adventure game set in 1899 America is a stunningly realistic and immersive prequel. You play as Arthur Morgan, an enforcer for the Van der Linde gang, navigating a beautiful yet brutal world as the era of outlaws comes to a close.

The game is renowned for its unparalleled attention to detail; from the way mud cakes on your boots to the unique behaviors of over 200 species of animals, the world feels truly alive. This isn't just an empty sandbox. It's a living, breathing environment where your actions have meaningful consequences through its honor system. Red Dead Redemption 2 set a new benchmark for open-world detail and narrative depth, making it one of the best action games for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

Is This Game Right for You?

Red Dead Redemption 2 demands patience and an appreciation for its deliberate pace. It prioritizes immersion and storytelling over fast-paced, constant action. If you enjoy slow-burn narratives, meticulous world-building, and becoming fully invested in a character's journey, this game is for you. However, if you prefer immediate action and a faster gameplay loop, you might find its realistic animations and traversal mechanics slow. This game is perfect for players who want to get lost in a world rather than just complete a series of objectives.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Take Your Time: The game’s magic is in its slower moments. Go hunting, play poker in a saloon, or simply ride through the wilderness. Rushing the main story means missing much of what makes the world special.

• Maintain Your Gear: Regularly clean your weapons to ensure they function properly, and take care of your horse by feeding and brushing it. This bond is not just cosmetic; it impacts your horse's performance and stamina.

• Explore Off the Beaten Path: The world is filled with hidden strangers, unique events, and environmental storytelling. Some of the most memorable moments are found by straying far from the marked roads and mission objectives.

4. Minecraft

If your answer to "what video game should I play?" is a game that offers limitless creativity and endless replayability, then Minecraft is the definitive choice. This iconic sandbox survival game places you in a vast, procedurally generated world made entirely of blocks, where your only real limit is your imagination. There are no set goals; you are free to gather resources, build magnificent structures, fight off nocturnal creatures, or simply explore the infinite landscape. Its simple yet profound mechanics have made it the best-selling video game of all time and a cultural phenomenon.

The game is split primarily into two modes: Survival, where you must manage health and hunger while gathering materials to survive and thrive, and Creative, which gives you unlimited resources and the ability to fly, making it perfect for ambitious construction projects. This dual approach caters to every type of player, from those seeking a challenging adventure to those who just want a digital LEGO set. Its influence extends beyond entertainment, with Minecraft being used in educational settings worldwide to teach everything from coding to city planning.

Is This Game Right for You?

Minecraft is a unique experience that thrives on player-driven goals. It’s perfect for those who enjoy making their own fun rather than following a structured narrative. The game's accessibility makes it one of the best iOS games and best Android games for creative minds, while its depth provides a satisfying experience on consoles and PC. If you enjoy games that give you tools instead of rules and reward long-term projects, you will feel right at home in its blocky universe.

However, players who need a strong, story-driven campaign or clear objectives to stay engaged might find the open-ended nature of Minecraft aimless. The core gameplay loop of mining and crafting can feel repetitive if you aren't motivated by a personal building project or exploration goal.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Set Personal Goals: The game doesn't give you quests, so create your own. Aim to build a castle, map out a continent, automate a farm with redstone, or defeat the Ender Dragon.

• Start in Creative Mode: If you're new, spend some time in Creative mode to learn the crafting recipes and building mechanics without the threat of monsters.

• Join Multiplayer Servers: Playing with others can provide incredible inspiration and open up new game modes, from competitive minigames to collaborative building projects.

5. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

If your search for "what video game should I play" is driven by a desire for a masterclass in storytelling and a world brimming with meaningful content, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a monumental achievement in the RPG genre. Developed by CD Projekt RED, this open-world epic casts you as Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster slayer, on a deeply personal quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri. The game unfolds across a war-torn, morally grey continent where your choices have tangible, far-reaching consequences.

What sets The Witcher 3 apart is the unparalleled quality of its writing, particularly in its side quests. Seemingly simple monster contracts evolve into complex narratives of love, betrayal, and tragedy that often surpass the main stories of other games. This commitment to narrative depth, combined with a robust combat system that rewards preparation, creates an immersive experience that has earned it over 250 Game of the Year awards. Its influence is undeniable, setting a new standard for open-world design and narrative in modern gaming.

Is This Game Right for You?

The Witcher 3 is a massive, mature-themed RPG that demands a significant time investment. It's a perfect fit if you prioritize deep lore, character-driven stories, and making impactful decisions. However, if you prefer fast-paced, arcade-style action or a more lighthearted tone, its deliberate pacing and dark fantasy setting might not be for you. The game truly shines for players who enjoy getting lost in a world, reading character bios, and seeing the consequences of their actions unfold over dozens of hours.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Don't Skip Side Quests: Many of the game's best stories and most memorable characters are found off the beaten path. Treat side quests with the same importance as the main storyline.

• Prepare for Hunts: This isn't a simple hack-and-slash. Use the Bestiary to learn about a monster's weaknesses, then apply the correct oils to your sword, craft relevant potions, and use signs to gain an edge.

• Read the Lore: Take time to read the in-game character entries, books, and quest logs. This will significantly enrich your understanding and appreciation of the world and its complex politics.

6. Super Mario Odyssey

If your answer to "what video game should I play?" involves a desire for pure, unadulterated joy and endlessly creative platforming, then Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play. This vibrant 3D adventure for the Nintendo Switch sends Mario on a globe-trotting journey to save Princess Peach from Bowser's matrimonial machinations. Its standout feature is Cappy, Mario's sentient hat, which allows him to "capture" and control a massive variety of enemies and objects, from a T-Rex to a simple zipper.

This capture mechanic completely redefines traversal and puzzle-solving. Each kingdom you visit is a dense, open-ended playground filled with secrets, challenges, and Power Moons to collect. The game constantly introduces new ideas and captures, ensuring the experience remains fresh and surprising for dozens of hours. As one of the best platformers on the Switch, its design is a masterclass in encouraging player creativity and rewarding exploration with delightful discoveries at every turn.

Is This Game Right for You?

Super Mario Odyssey is designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels while offering deep challenges for completionists. Its core appeal lies in its inventive mechanics and cheerful atmosphere. This is a game built to make you smile, perfect for anyone looking for a polished and uplifting experience.

Your enjoyment will directly correlate with how much you love exploration and experimentation. If you enjoy games that give you a creative toolset and a sandbox to play in, you will find it hard to put down. It's a fantastic choice for families and anyone searching for the best Nintendo Switch games that perfectly capture the magic of gaming.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Experiment with Cappy: The capture ability is the heart of the game. Try throwing Cappy at everything. You'll be surprised by what you can control and the unique solutions it opens up.

• Explore Every Corner: The kingdoms are packed with hidden Power Moons. Look up, down, behind waterfalls, and in suspicious-looking corners. Don't be afraid to wander off the main path.

• Don't Rush to Complete: The goal isn't just to finish the story. Enjoy the journey through each kingdom, soaking in the sights and sounds. You can always return later to find everything you missed.

7. Among Us

If you’re searching for a game that prioritizes social interaction, deception, and deduction over complex mechanics, Among Us is a phenomenal choice. This multiplayer social deduction game, available on PC, mobile (as one of the best iOS games and best Android games), and consoles, places 4-15 players on a spaceship or outpost. Most players are "Crewmates" trying to complete tasks, while a few are "Impostors" secretly sabotaging operations and eliminating the crew. The core gameplay loop revolves around tense emergency meetings where players discuss, accuse, and vote to eject who they believe is the Impostor.

Developed by InnerSloth, the game became a cultural phenomenon in 2020, rocketing to popularity through streamers and content creators. Its simple, accessible design makes it easy for anyone to pick up, but its psychological depth provides a high skill ceiling. Success isn't about reflexes; it's about your ability to read people, lie convincingly, and make logical deductions under pressure. This unique blend of cooperation and paranoia has influenced a wave of social deduction titles, cementing its place as a modern classic.

Is This Game Right for You?

So, "what video game should I play" if I want something social? Among Us is perfect for players who enjoy party games, mysteries, and interacting with others, whether they are friends or strangers. Your enjoyment will depend heavily on your comfort with communication, as speaking up during meetings is crucial for both sides. It’s an ideal pick for a game night or for anyone looking for a low-cost, high-replayability experience that fosters laughter, arguments, and unforgettable moments of betrayal. If you prefer solo campaigns or action-heavy gameplay, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Observe Behavior Patterns: Pay close attention to who is where and what they're doing. An Impostor might pretend to do a task or suspiciously follow another player.

• Communicate Clearly: When you report a body or call a meeting, provide specific information. Saying "Blue is sus" is less helpful than "I saw Blue vent in Electrical."

• Establish Your Innocence: As a Crewmate, perform tasks in front of others when possible. This is called "visual clearing" and helps build trust.

• Learn the Maps: Knowing the layout, vent connections, and task locations is critical for both catching Impostors and planning your sabotage as one.

8. Elden Ring

If you find yourself asking, "what video game should I play?" and desire a monumental challenge set within a breathtakingly vast and dangerous world, Elden Ring is a landmark title you cannot ignore. Developed by FromSoftware in collaboration with author George R.R. Martin, this action RPG takes the studio's famously difficult "Souls" formula and places it into an expansive open world called The Lands Between. This shift allows unprecedented freedom, empowering you to tackle its immense challenges in any order you see fit.

The game is a masterclass in environmental storytelling and challenging combat. Unlike many open-world titles, Elden Ring provides minimal hand-holding, encouraging you to forge your own path, discover secrets, and overcome its legendary boss encounters through skill and perseverance. This design philosophy cemented its place as Game of the Year in 2022 and has made it one of the best action games for PS5, Xbox, and PC, introducing the notoriously tough Souls-like genre to a massive new audience.

Is This Game Right for You?

Elden Ring is a critically acclaimed masterpiece, but its demanding nature isn't for everyone. If you're considering diving into The Lands Between, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you enjoy difficult but fair combat? The game's core loop involves learning enemy attack patterns through trial and error. Victory is incredibly rewarding but requires patience.

• Are you motivated by self-directed exploration? The game doesn't use a traditional quest log or map markers. Your curiosity is your primary guide to finding new areas, bosses, and lore.

• Do you like deep character customization? You can create countless unique builds by experimenting with different stats, weapons, armor, and magical spells.

If you answered yes, then you are ready to become the Elden Lord. However, if you prefer a more guided, story-driven experience with less punishing combat, you might find its design frustrating.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Don't Fear Retreat: If a boss or area feels impossible, it probably is for your current level. The open world is designed for you to leave, explore elsewhere, grow stronger, and return later.

• Use Your Resources: Summoning spirit ashes to help in fights is a core mechanic, not a crutch. Use them to distract bosses and create openings for your attacks.

• Experiment with Builds: Don't be afraid to respec your character later in the game. Trying different weapon types and playstyles is key to overcoming diverse challenges.

9. God of War (2018)

If your search for "what video game should I play" leads you to a desire for a masterclass in storytelling and gameplay evolution, God of War (2018) is an absolute must-play. This PS4 and PC title masterfully reboots the iconic franchise, trading the relentless rage of the original trilogy for a profound, character-driven narrative. Players follow an older, grizzled Kratos and his young son, Atreus, on a deeply personal journey through the realms of Norse mythology, transforming a god-slayer into a grieving father.

The game swaps the series' classic fixed camera for an intimate, over-the-shoulder perspective that never cuts away, pulling you directly into its brutal, strategic combat and emotional story beats. The Leviathan Axe is a triumph of game design, a versatile weapon that can be thrown, recalled, and upgraded, making every encounter feel weighty and satisfying. Its incredible success, including winning Game of the Year in 2018, set a new standard for how to mature a beloved franchise and cemented its place among the best action games for PS5.

Is This Game Right for You?

God of War is for players who appreciate a strong, linear narrative combined with rewarding combat and exploration. It's a game about a father and son's relationship as much as it is about fighting mythological beasts.

If you enjoy a powerful, emotional story that drives the action forward and prefer expertly crafted combat systems over open-world freedom, this title is an unparalleled experience. However, if you are looking for a game where you create your own character or want a purely multiplayer experience, you might look elsewhere.

Key Takeaways and Tips

• Utilize Atreus: Your son is not just a sidekick; he is a crucial part of combat. Upgrade his skills and use his bow attacks to stun enemies, interrupt attacks, and extend combos.

• Explore Off the Beaten Path: While the main story is linear, the interconnected realms are filled with side quests, optional boss fights, and lore that flesh out the world and provide valuable upgrades.

• Master the Axe and Shield: Learn to parry effectively with the shield and experiment with different runic attacks for your Leviathan Axe. Mastering these core mechanics is key to conquering the toughest challenges.

Top 9 Video Games Comparison Chart

Start Your Next Adventure with Confidence

Navigating the vast, vibrant universe of video games can feel like an epic quest in itself. From the sprawling, post-apocalyptic plains of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to the mythic, brutal landscapes of God of War, we have journeyed through a curated selection of titles designed to spark your next digital obsession. This guide was crafted to move beyond generic lists, offering you a strategic starting point whether you are a seasoned veteran searching for the best action games on PS5 or a newcomer looking for the best iOS games to play on your commute.

The core takeaway is that the perfect game for you exists; finding it is simply a matter of aligning your personal tastes with the right genre and platform. We have explored how games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt deliver unparalleled narrative depth for story lovers, while titles like Hades and Elden Ring offer sublime, challenging combat for those who seek a true test of skill. The question "what video game should I play" isn't about finding a single "best" game, but about discovering the best game for you, right now.

Actionable Steps to Discover Your Next Favorite Game

To make your search more effective, it's time to put these insights into practice. Instead of endlessly scrolling through digital storefronts, take a moment to reflect on what you truly want from your next gaming experience. This deliberate approach saves time and ensures your investment, whether it's time or money, is well spent.

Here are a few practical steps to narrow down your search:

• Define Your "Play Mood": Are you looking for a relaxing escape after a long day? Perhaps one of the best farming games of 2025 would be ideal. Or are you craving high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled action? A title like Elden Ring would be a better fit. Pinpointing your current mood is the most critical first step.

• Revisit Your Gaming History: Think about the last three games you truly loved. What did they have in common? Was it the open-world exploration, the character progression, the competitive multiplayer, or the rich storytelling? Identifying these patterns will provide a powerful clue about what to look for next.

• Explore Beyond Your Comfort Zone (Strategically): If you exclusively play AAA action games, consider trying a critically acclaimed indie title like Hades. Its rogue-like structure offers a fresh gameplay loop that might surprise you. This method allows you to broaden your horizons without taking a completely random leap of faith.

The Lasting Impact of Finding the Right Game

Choosing the right video game is more than just a way to pass the time; it is an investment in your own enjoyment and well-being. A great game can be a source of profound satisfaction, a way to connect with friends and family like in Among Us, or even a vehicle for experiencing a powerful, interactive story. When you consciously select a game that aligns with your preferences, you unlock more than just a new piece of software; you unlock a new world to explore, a new skill to master, and a new community to join.

The goal is to transform the often-overwhelming process of discovery into an exciting part of the journey itself. Armed with the knowledge of what makes different genres and titles compelling, you can confidently answer the question "what video game should I play" and dive headfirst into your next unforgettable adventure. Your controller is charged, your quest log is open, and a new world awaits.

Still feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of options? Let PickAGameForMe do the heavy lifting for you. Our intelligent recommendation engine asks you a few simple questions to understand your unique player profile and instantly suggests titles perfectly tailored to your tastes. Spend less time searching and more time playing by visiting PickAGameForMe to find your next favorite game in minutes.

Article created using Outrank