The biggest gaming trends

This past year was anything but quiet for gaming culture, yet it passed with surprising ease. As we move further into the decade, the industry’s biggest headlines revolved around familiar themes: layoffs, studio closures, delays, and the growing use of generative AI in game development, sparking debates about ethics and creativity. Despite these challenges, the year wasn’t as bleak as it could have been, thanks to developers who worked passionately to preserve the joy of gaming.

The launch of Nintendo’s new console marked a new hardware generation, accompanied by vibrant, feel-good titles designed to combat cynicism. Mid-sized studios revisited classic genres, offering fresh takes on RPGs and episodic storytelling, while indie developers thrived with standout titles combining intricate puzzles and action, proving that artistic creativity is alive and well.

Some of the year’s biggest trends emerged from circumstance rather than intent. Delayed projects and new console launch shaped release schedules, while players embraced unexpected gameplay dynamics by experimenting with available tools. Developers, pushed by market pressures, responded with some of their best, most creative work.

The year of the ninja

One of the year’s highlights was the resurgence of ninja-themed games, a beloved trope from the 1970s to the 1990s. While Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice revived interest in recent years, this past year took the trend further. It began with an enhanced remaster of Ninja Gaiden, followed by Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set in feudal Japan, which introduced a compelling stealth-oriented protagonist.

Summer brought standout 2D side-scrollers like a new Ninja Gaiden with fluid pixel art and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, a hand-illustrated masterpiece. The year ended with a true sequel to Ninja Gaiden, delivering brutal action and over-the-top violence, firmly making this the “Year of the Ninja.”

The kart racing comeback

Another surprise trend was the return of kart racing games, a genre that peaked in the 1990s. A new Mario Kart entry launched with an open-world map and chaotic 24-player multiplayer modes, blending accessibility with ambition. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds followed with fast-paced gameplay, stunning visuals, and a roster featuring characters from Minecraft and TMNT. Meanwhile, Kirby Air Riders stood out by combining racing with *Smash Bros.*-style mechanics for something entirely unique.

Cooperative play and “Friendslop”

Multiplayer gaming thrived, though not always in traditional ways. High-profile shooters like Call of Duty: Black Ops and Marathon failed to impress, while cooperative games found new audiences. Titles like Split Fiction and Lego Voyagers charmed players with story-driven co-op adventures, and quirky indie games like Baby Steps turned frustrating physics into hilarious multiplayer fun. Lo-fi multiplayer titles like R.E.P.O. and Peak also gained traction, emphasizing teamwork and creativity.

The role of nostalgia

Remakes and remasters remained a dominant force, though with mixed results. Nintendo re-released Donkey Kong Country Returns and the Super Mario Galaxy games to little fanfare, while The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion received a visually updated but forgettable remaster.

However, Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter finally got a proper localization, and Square Enix delivered stunning remakes of Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy Tactics, which felt timely and relevant. Indie publishers like Dotemu also leaned into retro aesthetics with titles like a new Ninja Gaiden and Marvel Cosmic Invasion, while Ball x Pit turned classic arcade gameplay into an addictive roguelike.

Generative AI: a double-edged sword

Generative AI remained one of the year’s most controversial topics. Major studios like Ubisoft embraced AI-driven projects, but backlash followed. Activision faced criticism for AI-generated assets in its new Black Ops, and ARC Raiders drew ire for AI-generated voice lines.

In response, many indie developers proudly branded their games as “AI-free,” emphasizing human creativity. Titles like Hades II, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Despelote showcased handcrafted artistry, while large-scale releases like South of Midnight proved AAA games could still retain a deeply personal touch.

Looking ahead

Despite industry challenges, the past year highlighted the resilience and ingenuity of game developers. Whether through nostalgia, redefining multiplayer gameplay, or creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant experiences, the gaming community proved its ability to adapt and innovate. As debate over AI continues, the year’s standout games remind us of the irreplaceable value of human creativity in shaping the future of gaming.