Facebook
Reddit
Email
With GTA 6 being pushed from a 2025 to a 2026 release, let’s take a look at some games that are possibly GOTY contenders.
When the GTA 6 trailer dropped, it received a lot of attention, with fans claiming the upcoming game is among the possible Game of the Year (GOTY) contenders, until it was pushed back to a 2026 release. Originally set for release in Fall 2025, the delay of GTA 6 has left a void in this year’s blockbuster lineup.
With that said, we are not exactly short on promising titles for this year. Even without the next Grand Theft Auto sequel coming this year, there are a ton of new games coming out. From innovative indie projects to long-anticipated sequels, the stage is set for a diverse array of games to shine. With GTA 6 pushed to 2026, let’s take a look at some released and upcoming titles that could rise as possible GOTY contenders in its absence.
5 Games That Have the Potential To Be GOTY for 2025 With the Delay of GTA 6
1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
With the indie gaming scene gaining widespread attention, we have Sandfall Interactive’s debut game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. It’s a semi-turn-based RPG that has garnered critical acclaim for a few reasons. First is its interesting gameplay mechanics, and second, its interesting narrative that might make you question your morality with the ending.
Also Read: Clair Obscur Expedition 33: All Endings Explained
2. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Warhorse Studios returns with a sequel that promises a more immersive medieval RPG experience with Kingdom Come: Deliverance II. Set in 15th-century Bohemia, the game continues Henry’s story with enhanced mechanics and a larger open world.
Also Read: How To Get the Best Ending in Kingdom Come Deliverance 2
3. Split Fiction
Remember the 2021 The Game Awards Game of the Year awardee, It Takes Two? The developer behind it, Hazelight Studios, is back with another co-op title, Split Fiction. The game explores various genres and gameplay concepts, which will take you on a ride.
Its innovative approach to cooperative storytelling positions it as a unique entry in the 2025 lineup. If we learned something from their previous title, it’s that they are good at delivering immersive and fun co-op game experiences.
Also Read: All Boss Fights in Split Fiction, Ranked
4. DOOM: The Dark Ages
The upcoming DOOM title is not a sequel but a prequel to the previous titles. DOOM: The Dark Ages explores the events that happened before DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. The game is set for release on May 15, 2025.
Based on the trailer, we can expect it to have the same gore-packed, rip-and-tear gameplay experience that the previous titles have. Don’t forget about the heavy metal background music as you plow through hordes of demons. However, this time, we might be seeing a bit of a twist with a mix of futuristic and medieval-inspired weaponry.
Also Read: Is Doom The Dark Ages Available on Xbox Game Pass?
5. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Hideo Kojima is popular for his genre-defying titles, and Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is shaping up to be no exception. This next installment dives deeper into the fractured world with Sam Bridges, played by the iconic actor Norman Reedus. The game promises some new, interesting gameplay mechanics and surreal storytelling. With Kojima teasing massive philosophical and cinematic ambitions, this could be one of 2025’s most talked-about releases. Perhaps, maybe even a GOTY contender with GTA 6 being pushed to a 2026 release.
Also Read: Death Stranding 2 Pre-Load Schedule Revealed
Looking For More?
Thank you for reading the article. We provide the latest news and create guides for Baldur’s Gate 3, Starfield, ARK Survival Ascended, and more. Also, watch Deltia play games on Twitch or visit his YouTube channel!
