**Reflecting on the exceptional games of 2025 in the future, it is often the characters that define them as much as their mechanics or level design. Whether through the heroes we’ve embodied, the villains we’ve confronted, or the fleeting side characters we’ve encountered, the standout games of 2025 introduced memorable newcomers alongside beloved characters with moments worthy of celebration.**

Here are our selections for the top video game characters of 2025.

### Garmond and Zaza – *Hollow Knight: Silksong*
*Hollow Knight: Silksong* features a host of quirky characters, with Garmond and Zaza being particularly unforgettable. This noble little creature and his airborne companion become allies to Hornet after she rescues them from captivity, and Garmond’s battle cry as he charges into one of *Silksong*’s formidable bosses is enough to motivate anyone for battle against the divine.

### Tenna – *Deltarune*
When curating the list of the best characters in gaming each year, it’s essential to include some truly zany personalities. Tenna, the television host with a TV head, stands out in 2025’s lineup. *Deltarune* is filled with vibrant and memorable figures, but few captivate quite like Tenna, whose 1950s variety show host persona is perfectly complemented by the game’s use of Word-Art-style text effects and a 3D model that allows for more lively expression than most characters. While Tenna may disrupt your group’s quest, his flamboyance and unique flair make it hard to be upset. His wild behavior leads to one of *Deltarune*’s most outrageous boss encounters, concealing a profound fear of obscurity that culminates in a heart-wrenching ending.

### Nate – *Baby Steps*
*Baby Steps*, combining the exasperating movement mechanics of *QWOP* with a climbing game akin to *Only Up*, could have easily resigned itself to being a $20 joke game devoid of character growth, yet its protagonist, Nate, showcases considerable depth as he proceeds barefoot up a mountain. Nate’s issues could easily be resolved if he embraced or sought assistance. The sharp humor in *Baby Steps*’ writing transforms moments highlighting Nate’s stubbornness into enjoyable experiences instead of frustrating ones. As the story unfolds, Nate’s profound social anxiety becomes evident, dwarfing any discomfort I’ve felt while placing an order at a restaurant.

### Swann – *Lost Records: Bloom & Rage*
Similar to *Baby Steps*, *Lost Records: Bloom & Rage* serves as a virtual social anxiety simulator, featuring Swann, a teenage introvert navigating her unfamiliar surroundings around a group of girls she’d like to connect with. From the creators of *Life Is Strange*, Don’t Nod, this narrative adventure allows you to shape the dynamics of the girls’ relationships. Regardless of the choices made with Swann, a poignant longing for love and belonging permeates her experience. She’s the type of person who could easily be overshadowed or invited to gatherings but remains excluded from engaging discussions.

### Dollman – *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach*
Dollman, the living puppet from *Death Stranding 2*, could have been a mere comedic figure, yet he evolves into one of the most sorrowful beings in a series filled with despair. You can toss him around for surveying purposes, and when nighttime comes, he shares chilling tales of his eerie doll experiences. Dollman embodies the contrast of serious political themes and absurd humor more vividly than most.

### Hazel – *South of Midnight*
*South of Midnight*’s southern gothic fantasy resonates with me as a former resident of the South. Hazel, the game’s sorceress protagonist, encapsulates many of the region’s finest qualities. She represents the best in humanity: a compassionate individual who aims to assist others while utilizing wit and not hesitating to stand firm against those who respond to her kindness with negativity.

### Pinky – *Promise Mascot Agency*
Pinky presents a charming exterior while harboring a sinister nature. As her name suggests, she’s a detached pinky finger designed to resemble the kind of mascot you might encounter at

**IO Interactive Postpones Launch of 007: First Light to May 2026**

As the gaming world anticipates 2026, the release schedule is already seeing major adjustments. IO Interactive, known for its achievements with the Hitman series, has made waves by announcing a delay for the eagerly awaited James Bond title, *007: First Light*. Initially set to debut on March 27, 2026, the game will now be released on May 27, 2026. This calculated change grants the development team more time to polish the game prior to its debut.

The postponement follows IO Interactive’s recognition of the competitive environment, especially after *Grand Theft Auto 6* altered its release timeline. While the studio has reported that *007: First Light* is in a solid playtesting phase and can be played from beginning to end, the added months will offer essential chances for enhancement and refinement.

In an official announcement, IO Interactive conveyed their dedication to providing an exceptional gaming experience:

> “Today, we’re providing an update on 007: First Light, as we’ve opted to shift the game’s release by two months, to May 27, 2026. *007: First Light* is our most ambitious endeavor thus far, and the team is fully committed to creating an unforgettable James Bond adventure, featuring stunning action, international intrigue, espionage, gadgets, car chases, and more. As an independent developer and publisher, this choice ensures we deliver a quality experience that players deserve from the very first day.”

The statement also reassured fans that the extra time will allow the team to enhance various elements of gameplay and the overall experience. IO Interactive’s commitment to releasing a refined product aims to ensure that *007: First Light* meets player expectations from day one and lays the groundwork for its ongoing success.

As excitement grows for early 2026, fans can look forward to more updates and details as the studio prepares for the May rollout. The fusion of cherished espionage themes and innovative gameplay promises an exhilarating experience that honors the legacy of the James Bond series.

### The Contentious PvP Component in *Arc Raiders*

Since the debut of *Arc Raiders*, the PvP (Player vs. Player) aspect has ignited persistent discussions among its players. While numerous gamers value the possibility for player interactions to generate tension and thrill, others argue that it detracts from the game’s fundamental premise—of a select few courageous individuals striving to gather resources in a challenging environment. This debate is particularly heated due to the behavior of a former professional gamer, Taylor “THump” Humphries, who has gained notoriety for his aggressive play style that often targets casual gamers.

THump has become well-known during his Twitch broadcasts, where he partakes in what many describe as griefing—regularly eliminating gamers who are ill-equipped for battle. His streams have highlighted prolonged gameplay where he takes pleasure in ambushing other players, showcasing a stark difference from the more tranquil interactions usually promoted within the game. In one notably long stream exceeding 13 hours, THump’s primary focus was on taking out players at crucial moments when they were least ready to defend themselves.

As detailed by *IGN*, THump, a prior professional competitor in titles like *Apex Legends* and *H1Z1*, appears to indulge in this behavior for entertainment purposes. His aim seems to center on relishing the shock and disappointment of other players, raising ethical concerns about his gaming style. Although technically, he operates within the confines of the game’s systems—considering that *Arc Raiders* includes PvP features—his tactics have elicited reactions ranging from amusement to outrage from viewers and players alike.

Despite a predominant belief that gaming should promote positive and cooperative experiences, THump’s behavior starkly contrasts this notion. His in-game remarks often reflect irony as he enjoys the disorder he instigates. Feedback from players he defeats underscores a widespread feeling of exasperation; numerous individuals express disbelief over the evident lack of sportsmanship exhibited during moments that were intended to be more harmonious.

The situation intensified when THump posted clips on social media displaying his predatory strategies, provoking significant backlash from other players who condemned his attitude. Some contended that his actions epitomized a toxic facet of gaming culture, where the enjoyment derived from inflicting distress on others overshadows the spirit of competition and collaboration that most gamers aspire to.

Conversely, THump’s supporters might contend that he is merely exercising the freedoms afforded by a game that incorporates PvP components. Many believe that this tension is vital for crafting an exhilarating gaming experience, allowing players to forge temporary alliances or engage in betrayal, thereby enriching the overall gameplay. It underscores a community that, at its core, should permit personal choices regarding engagement, whether through collaboration or competition.

The wider implications of THump’s actions reveal a distinctive aspect of *Arc Raiders* as a PvP game. Notably, a considerable segment of the player community seems to favor a non-violent approach, focusing on cooperative tactics over aggressive maneuvers. This inclination to interact peacefully, even amid game mechanics that allow for violence, sharply contrasts with a previously cutthroat PvP environment.

This contrast has turned THump into a polarizing figure—symbolizing a more chaotic style that opposes the values cherished by many players seeking a community-oriented experience. Yet, his stature serves as a reminder to the gaming community about the significance of player choice and the varied ways individuals derive enjoyment from multiplayer scenarios.

In conclusion, the ongoing conversation regarding the PvP dynamics in *Arc Raiders*, amplified by THump’s exploits, raises essential questions about the future of gaming culture and the nature of player interactions in multiplayer contexts. Whether viewed as an annoyance or a crucial element of gameplay, these dynamics reflect broader themes of resilience within communities that prioritize collaboration and support, even when faced with provocation.