Tech journalist Dominik Diamond, known for his sharp wit and no-nonsense opinions, has released his alternative game of

the year awards for 2025, offering a humorous yet insightful look into the gaming habits of his household and the

broader industry trends. Diamond's list isn't your typical collection of polished AAA titles; instead, it's a reflection

of real-life gaming experiences, complete with family squabbles and personal disappointments.

Diamond's family's gaming choices offer a glimpse into diverse preferences. His eldest daughter juggles *Just Dance

2024*, *Horizon Zero Dawn*, and *Pikmin*, while also navigating the complexities of finding decent healthcare (in-game

and, more worryingly, in real life) within *Cityscapes*. This highlights the blurring lines between virtual and

real-world concerns, as games increasingly reflect and comment on societal issues. His middle son's dedication to

*Overwatch* on dedicated gaming devices showcases a resistance to the mobile gaming trend, a sentiment Diamond clearly

respects. Meanwhile, his youngest daughter's interest in *Resident Evil Biohazard* alongside her theatrical aspirations

speaks to the diverse ways young people engage with media and entertainment.

Diamond himself admits to being consumed by *Marvel Snap*, a digital card game, before growing disillusioned with its

microtransaction-driven model. This reflects a growing concern within the gaming community regarding the ethics of

in-game purchases and the potential for predatory monetization strategies. He praises *Doom: The Dark Ages* for its

immersive atmosphere and *Balatro* (a game from 2024 he belatedly discovered) for its ingenious design, highlighting the

importance of both technical achievement and innovative gameplay. His criticism of *Outer Worlds 2* and his struggles

with *Hollow Knight: Silksong* showcase the subjective nature of game appreciation and the potential for disconnect

between critical acclaim and personal enjoyment.

Diamond doesn't shy away from addressing industry controversies. He calls out EA's partnership with Jared Kushner and

the Saudis and the high price tag of *Outer Worlds 2*, labeling them both "morally indefensible and repugnant." This

willingness to tackle ethical issues within the gaming world sets his awards apart from more conventional lists that

often prioritize commercial success over critical analysis.

Ultimately, Diamond's alternative game of the year awards provide a valuable snapshot of the gaming landscape in 2025.

It's a reminder that gaming is not just about technical prowess and blockbuster releases, but also about personal

experiences, family dynamics, and the ongoing debate about the industry's ethical responsibilities. As we look ahead to

2026 and the highly anticipated *GTA 6*, Diamond's reflections offer a crucial reminder to approach the gaming world

with both enthusiasm and a critical eye.