The Best Games To Play Over The Holiday Break 2025

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Imagine you have a big box of toys, and every year, Santa brings new ones just in time for a long winter break when you don't have to go to school. Now, with all this free time and new toys, you'd want to know which ones are the best to play with, right? That's what the story from GameSpot is about! They made a list of the best new video games that came out this year, so everyone can pick the most fun ones to play during the holiday break. It's like having a treasure map that shows you where the coolest toys are hidden!

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As the year wraps up and everyone gets ready for holiday fun, GameSpot has put together a list of the best video games that came out in 2025. Why now? Because with school out and many people taking breaks from work, it’s a great time to dive into some new games. Among the highlights are "Super Mario Party Jamboree" for Nintendo Switch 2, which is perfect for family game nights with over 110 mini-games to choose from, and "Call of Duty: Black Ops 7", which is ideal for playing with friends online or tackling the game's thrilling campaign mode on your own.

The list also includes games that are good for different types of gamers, like "Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake" for those who love long, cozy nights with a role-playing game, or "Ball X Pit", a new take on brick-breaking games that's become a hit for its addictive gameplay. So, this list from GameSpot is basically your guide to finding the perfect game to fit whatever your holiday plan is, whether it’s partying with friends or chilling under a blanket.

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As we approach the end of 2025, GameSpot has curated a list of the best video games released throughout the year, tailored for holiday enjoyment. This period, when students and workers alike are on break, offers a prime opportunity to explore these titles. The list is diverse, catering to various tastes and gaming preferences, which is crucial given the eclectic nature of gamers' interests today.

"Super Mario Party Jamboree" takes advantage of the new Nintendo Switch 2 platform, offering a fresh experience with an expanded roster and more mini-games, ideal for group settings. On the other hand, "Call of Duty: Black Ops 7" continues to cater to fans of intense multiplayer and narrative-driven campaign modes, showcasing the evolving nature of this long-standing series. The inclusion of "Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake" taps into the nostalgia and lengthy engagement that RPG gamers crave, especially during the cold winter days.

From an industry perspective, these releases demonstrate significant trends, such as the continuing popularity of franchise sequels and remakes, and the innovative approaches to gameplay seen in games like "Ball X Pit". The economic implications are also notable, as holiday sales can significantly boost a title's financial success. Looking ahead, the games listed not only offer immediate entertainment but also set the stage for future developments in gaming technology and storytelling. The expert reviews linked in the GameSpot article provide deeper insights into each game's unique offerings and potential impact on the gaming landscape.