Underrated games frequently spark lively discussions within the gaming community. The audience potential for each game is challenging to quantify, especially given the sheer volume of titles released annually. With so many options, players often gravitate towards a select few, which can result in some exceptional games flying under the radar.
This article highlights several underrated games that deserve significantly more attention from players everywhere.
5 Underrated Games to Explore in 2025
1) Sifu
Upon its release, Sifu garnered praise for its innovate approach to martial arts gameplay, but its steep difficulty level, influenced by a unique aging mechanic, may have discouraged some casual gamers. Players start each level at the age of 20, and with each death, the death counter escalates. Reviving increases your age based on this counter, leading to a scenario where players could quickly find themselves in their 70s.
Exceeding the age of 75 means a complete level restart, which leaves many players frustrated. Nevertheless, those who persevere are rewarded with an exhilarating combat system based on Pak-Mei Kung Fu, featuring fluid dodges, parries, and a variety of attacking styles that make Sifu an essential contender in the melee combat genre, standing toe-to-toe with classics like Sleeping Dogs.
2) Deadpool
Before Ryan Reynolds became the face of Marvel’s Deadpool, Nolan North lent his voice to the character in the 2013 video game Deadpool. Created by High Moon Studios, the game follows Deadpool on a series of mercenary missions culminating in a showdown against Mister Sinister. The game’s hack-and-slash combat system is impressive, allowing players to alternate between melee weaponry and firearms.
However, what truly sets Deadpool apart is its witty writing, infused with the character’s signature humor. The linear campaign delivers a blood-soaked and comical adventure that remains one of the most underrated experiences in the hack-and-slash genre.
3) Return of the Obra Dinn
For those seeking a cerebral challenge, Return of the Obra Dinn offers an exceptional investigative experience. Set in the 1800s, players take on the role of an insurance investigator tasked with uncovering the fate of the 51 crew members aboard a mysterious ship. This detective game blends narrative and puzzle-solving elements seamlessly.
The game requires players to think critically and creatively, often leading to moments of frustration when the mystery proves elusive. Nevertheless, the triumphant feeling that comes with solving the case makes it one of the standout detective games in recent memory.
4) Ghostrunner
Combining elements of platforming and combat within a cyberpunk setting, Ghostrunner is a remarkable 3D action-platformer. What makes this game particularly intriguing is its punishing gameplay, where one hit can mean instant death—excluding bosses. Navigating its perilous environments successfully requires mastering a fluid movement system.
Players can chain together wall-runs, jumps, dashes, and slides to eliminate foes with precision and speed. As players advance, they unlock new powers to enhance their abilities, further solidifying Ghostrunner as a hidden gem in the realm of underrated games.
5) Children of the Sun
For those intrigued by tactical shooters with a twist, Children of the Sun introduces a unique approach to gameplay. The primary objective is to eliminate all enemies in each level with a single bullet. Players must skillfully redirect the bullet after it strikes an enemy, using it to take out multiple foes strategically.
As players progress, the challenges increase, introducing new elements that require careful consideration and strategic planning. This game stands out as an outstanding and underappreciated title that gamers should explore in 2025.