20(25) Games You Should Have Played

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The video offers substantial value by introducing viewers to a wide array of lesser-known games, each with a clear explanation of what makes it unique and worth playing. Millard’s arguments are well-supported by specific examples of gameplay mechanics, narrative themes, and design choices, demonstrating his deep understanding of game design. He effectively argues for the quality of these hidden gems by contrasting them with more mainstream titles and highlighting their innovative aspects. The argumentation is solid, though it is based on personal opinion and lacks external evidence, which is typical for this genre of content.

The title accurately reflects the content: a list of 20 games from 2025 that the creator believes deserve more attention.

8/10

The video is a well-structured, opinionated list of underappreciated games from 2025, presented by an experienced game design commentator. It provides specific details about each game's mechanics, themes, and appeal, but relies on subjective judgment and does not cite external sources. The creator's expertise and the internal consistency of the recommendations support a high reliability score, though the lack of verifiable references and the promotional nature of the content slightly reduce it.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction: Overview of 2025's gaming landscape and the rise of indie games.
• 02:00First game: Absolum - a retro-style beat 'em up with modern polish.
• 04:00Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo - a GBA-inspired action-adventure.
• 06:00Demonschool - a tactical RPG with a life sim twist.
• 08:00The Alters - a management game about cloning yourself.
• 10:00Q-UP - a satirical incremental game about a quantum coin flip.
• 12:00Of the Devil - a stylish visual novel with Ace Attorney vibes.
• 14:00Starvaders - a deck-building roguelike with Space Invaders mechanics.
• 16:00Mage Arena - a multiplayer wizard dueling game with voice commands.
• 18:00Abiotic Factor - a survival game set in a Black Mesa-like facility.
• 20:00Baby Steps - a platformer about a man who can't walk properly.
• 22:00Skin Deep - a comedy immersive sim with slapstick stealth.
• 24:00Mohrta - a Doom-engine shooter with unique art design.
• 26:00Wanderstop - a cozy game about burnout and vulnerability.
• 28:00Consume Me - an autobiographical game about eating disorders.
• 30:00Blippo+ - a bizarre TV catalog simulation.
• 32:00Oo - a minimalist puzzle game with a single mechanic.
• 34:00Metro Gravity - a gravity-based Metroidvania.
• 36:00Awards segment: Satirical awards for 2025 games.
• 38:00Top 3 #3: The Bizarre - a deep auto-battler with endless synergies.
• 40:00Top 3 #2: Blue Prince - a roguelike mansion exploration game.
• 42:00Top 3 #1: Look Outside - a unique game that defies description.
• 44:00Conclusion: Final thoughts and encouragement to try these games.

• Architect of Games on Bluesky — Official social media channel for updates and community interaction.

• Steam Store — Platform where many of the mentioned games are available, providing user reviews and additional information.