The Must-Play Video Games This Weekend: October 3, 2025 Edition
The landscape of the video game industry is perpetually shifting, and the past week has been a seismic event. We’ve witnessed monumental shifts, from the staggering $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts by an investment consortium including Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, to Xbox’s significant overhaul of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, accompanied by a notable 50% price increase. Adding to the flurry of news, Harmonix announced the impending delisting of Rock Band 4 this Sunday, marking the final two days for enthusiasts to secure this beloved rhythm game before it vanishes. Amidst this whirlwind of industry-defining announcements, major publications like Game Informer have delivered their verdicts on titles such as EA Sports FC 26 and Hotel Barcelona. However, here at Gaming News, our focus remains firmly on what truly matters: the games you should be diving into this very weekend.
As the sun sets on another eventful week, we, the dedicated team at Gaming News, have once again curated a selection of exceptional titles that demand your attention. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran seeking a nostalgic trip or a newcomer eager to explore uncharted digital territories, our recommendations are designed to resonate with a diverse spectrum of players. We meticulously analyze each title, considering its gameplay mechanics, narrative depth, visual fidelity, and overall entertainment value, to ensure that your precious weekend gaming hours are spent on experiences that are truly memorable and deeply engaging.
This edition, like those that preceded it, is born from a collective passion for interactive entertainment and a commitment to guiding our community towards the most rewarding gaming experiences available. We understand that in a world saturated with choices, discerning the truly exceptional can be a daunting task. That is precisely where our expertise comes into play. We delve deep, separating the ephemeral from the enduring, to bring you recommendations that not only entertain but also inspire. So, without further ado, let us guide you through the digital realms that await your exploration this weekend.
Rediscovering Galactic Wonders: Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle
The magic of gaming often lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and adventure, and few titles have captured this essence quite like the Super Mario Galaxy series. For those who may have missed these stellar entries upon their original release, or for players who cherish fond memories of soaring through the cosmos with Mario, the recent release of the Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle presents an irresistible opportunity. This carefully curated package offers not only substantial savings but also the chance to experience two of the most innovative and creatively charged installments in the venerable Mario franchise.
While available as a standalone purchase, the bundle’s inherent value makes it a particularly attractive proposition. These games represent a pinnacle of Nintendo’s design philosophy, pushing the boundaries of platforming with their audacious use of gravity mechanics and imaginative level design. The core gameplay loop, centered around navigating intricate 3D spheres, demands a level of spatial awareness and problem-solving that remains utterly captivating even years after their initial debut.
This remastered collection has been thoughtfully refined for modern hardware. While the iconic motion-controlled cursor, a hallmark of the original Wii releases, may require a brief adjustment period for some, the enhancements more than compensate for this minor learning curve. The elevated resolution ensures that Mario’s intergalactic escapades are rendered with stunning clarity, particularly on the formidable Switch 2, where the 4K visuals breathe new life into familiar worlds. The improved user interface contributes to a smoother, more intuitive experience, while the inclusion of a dedicated soundtrack mode allows players to immerse themselves in the breathtaking musical scores at their leisure. Furthermore, the addition of storybook chapters enriches the narrative context, offering a deeper glimpse into the whimsical universe of the Starship Kingdom.
The level design within both Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel is nothing short of genius. Each galaxy presents unique challenges and environmental puzzles that encourage players to think outside the box and utilize Mario’s expanding repertoire of abilities in inventive ways. The sheer variety of gameplay mechanics, from floating through zero-gravity environments to riding on cosmic currents, ensures that the experience remains fresh and exhilarating from start to finish. This bundle is not merely a collection of games; it is a portal to a universe brimming with joy, discovery, and the pure, unadulterated fun that only a Mario adventure can provide. For anyone seeking a masterclass in platforming design and a journey filled with unforgettable moments, this bundle is an essential addition to their gaming library.
Embark on a Quest for Vengeance: Ghost of Yōtei
For enthusiasts of critically acclaimed open-world action-adventure titles, the name Ghost of Tsushima resonates with a powerful sense of awe. Its breathtaking depiction of feudal Japan, coupled with its fluid and rewarding combat system, cemented its status as a modern classic. It is, therefore, with considerable excitement that we turn our attention to Ghost of Yōtei, a spiritual successor that promises to deliver an experience that not only honors the legacy of its predecessor but actively seeks to expand upon it.
Our initial four hours with Ghost of Yōtei have been nothing short of spectacular. The game masterfully recaptures the elements that made Ghost of Tsushima so beloved: a meticulously crafted, visually stunning Japanese countryside that beckons exploration, combat that is both accessible and deeply satisfying, and a world that rewards curiosity at every turn. The return of these core pillars is a testament to the developer’s commitment to quality and their understanding of what players cherish in this genre.
What truly sets Ghost of Yōtei apart, however, is its exceptionally personal tale of revenge. The narrative is woven with intricate threads of personal loss and a burning desire for retribution, drawing players into a deeply emotional journey. Through lore-filling flashbacks, players uncover the tragic backstory that fuels the protagonist’s relentless pursuit of justice. The introduction of checklists of targets serves as a tangible representation of this vendetta, providing clear objectives that drive the unfolding drama.
Beyond the compelling narrative and visceral combat, the world of Ghost of Yōtei is an interactive masterpiece. The act of exploration is not merely a means to an end but an integral part of the experience. Discovering hidden locations, engaging with the local populace, and uncovering the secrets of the land are all facets that contribute to the game’s immersive quality. The inclusion of elements like hot springs, which offered moments of respite and narrative development in the previous title, further enhances the sense of place and cultural authenticity.
Coming into 2025, Ghost of Yōtei was undoubtedly one of our most anticipated releases, and based on our early impressions, it is poised to not only meet but exceed those lofty expectations. If the initial hours are indicative of the full experience, this game has the potential to emerge as a defining title of the year. For players yearning for a rich narrative, unparalleled combat, and a world that begs to be explored, Ghost of Yōtei is an unequivocal must-play this weekend.
A Return to Classic Roots: Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake
The enduring appeal of the Dragon Quest series lies in its comforting familiarity and its timeless approach to role-playing game design. While the vast scope of Dragon Quest XI presents an enticing but significant time commitment, and the recent reveal of Dragon Quest VII Reimagined offers a streamlined approach, sometimes the heart yearns for a return to the series’ foundational experiences. This is precisely where the Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake shines, offering a perfect blend of classic charm and modern polish.
Our foray into this beautifully reimagined classic has proven to be an immensely rewarding decision. As the third installment in the Erdrick trilogy, and chronologically the first game in the overarching Dragon Quest narrative, this remake serves as an ideal entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic journey for long-time fans. Its significance is further amplified by the impending release of the Dragon Quest I & II: HD-2D Remake, which will complete the trilogy, making Dragon Quest III the perfect narrative prelude.
The visual transformation is, without question, the standout feature of this remake. Built from the ground up using the acclaimed HD-2D visual engine, a style first showcased in Octopath Traveler, the game is a breathtaking spectacle. Characters and environments are rendered with a distinctive charm that blends pixel art sensibilities with modern lighting and depth, creating a world that is both nostalgic and remarkably vibrant. This aesthetic choice elevates the classic Dragon Quest experience, breathing new life into a beloved world.
Beyond the visual overhaul, Square Enix has implemented intelligent quality-of-life updates that significantly enhance the gameplay. The ability to adjust battle speed, for instance, allows players to tailor the pacing to their preference, making encounters smoother and more engaging. These thoughtful changes ensure that the core gameplay, which first captivated audiences in the U.S. in 1992 (following its 1988 Japanese debut), remains accessible and enjoyable for a contemporary audience.
The Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake is more than just a graphical upgrade; it’s a masterclass in preserving the spirit of a classic while embracing the advancements of modern game development. It evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when RPGs were characterized by their straightforward yet deeply satisfying mechanics. The simplicity of its era is present, yet the game’s engaging quest and character progression ensure it remains just as enjoyable today.
For any player considering venturing into the world of Dragon Quest for the first time, this remake is an exceptional starting point. Narratively, it’s the true beginning of the saga, and its polished presentation makes the journey an absolute delight. Furthermore, players on the Switch 2 will benefit from a complimentary patch that further refines the game’s performance and visual fidelity, making it an even more compelling experience on the latest hardware. This is a game that perfectly bridges the gap between past and present, offering a rewarding adventure for all.
Taming Digital Beasts: Digimon Story: Time Stranger
The allure of monster-taming RPGs is a potent force in the gaming world, offering a unique blend of strategic team-building, compelling progression, and the sheer joy of collecting and training powerful creatures. While the Digimon franchise has a rich history, some of its gaming entries have, at times, struggled to capture the widespread attention of its anime counterpart. However, Digimon Story: Time Stranger emerges as a potential game-changer, a title that impressed us significantly at Summer Game Fest 2025 and has since proven to be a deeply engaging experience.
For those, like some of us on the Gaming News team, who may have admired the Digimon anime in their youth but never fully delved into its gaming ventures, even the well-regarded Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth, Time Stranger offers a perfect entry point. Our initial impressions have confirmed our excitement: these games are, in a word, excellent.
Digimon Story: Time Stranger masterfully synthesizes the elements that make monster-taming RPGs so captivating. The game’s depth lies in its intricate build-crafting systems, demanding strategic team composition, and thoughtful turn-based combat. The core loop of capturing, training, and evolving a diverse roster of Digimon is immensely satisfying. Each Digimon possesses unique abilities and potential, encouraging players to experiment with different combinations and strategies to overcome increasingly challenging encounters.
The game strikes a remarkable balance, positioning itself as the ideal middle ground between the accessible charm of Nintendo’s monster-tamer franchises and the complex, often darker, demon-summoning mechanics found in titles like Shin Megami Tensei. Time Stranger offers a rewarding level of challenge without becoming overly punishing, ensuring that players of varying skill levels can find enjoyment. The true magic lies in the meticulous planning required to map out a Digimon’s evolutionary path and maximize its growth potential. Unlocking new forms and abilities is a constant source of progression and excitement.
For the dedicated Digimon fanbase, Time Stranger represents a powerful new flagship title, one that has the capacity to draw in a broader audience. Its polished presentation, engaging gameplay, and compelling roster of creatures make it an incredibly accessible yet deeply rewarding experience. It successfully captures the spirit of Digimon while offering a sophisticated RPG experience that can stand proudly alongside its contemporaries. If you’re looking for a monster-taming adventure filled with strategic depth and a charming cast of digital monsters, Digimon Story: Time Stranger is an absolute must-play.
A Nostalgic Masterpiece in Miniature: The Lego Game Boy
In a week dominated by colossal industry news and major game releases, sometimes the most delightful discoveries come in unexpected packages. This past week, we received a truly remarkable item that blended our love for retro gaming with our enduring affection for Lego: a meticulously crafted Lego Game Boy. While not a playable game in the traditional sense, this impressive build offers a unique and satisfying experience for fans of both iconic brands.
As lifelong enthusiasts of Lego – a fact easily verifiable by a glance at our editorial team’s profiles – our expectations for Lego sets are consistently high. However, the Lego Game Boy managed to surpass even those elevated standards. This life-sized replica of the beloved handheld console is a testament to Lego’s engineering prowess and artistic design. The attention to detail is simply astonishing, from the tactile feel of the buttons to the satisfying click of the power switch, which faithfully replicates the satisfying on-off action of the original device.
While the buttons do not control an actual screen, they are fully functional and pressable, allowing for an incredibly tactile and immersive building experience. The D-Pad can be moved, and the overall construction captures the iconic silhouette of the original Game Boy with uncanny accuracy. A particularly charming detail is the interior structure, which is largely composed of dark green pieces, a subtle yet brilliant nod to the Game Boy’s internal microchip architecture, even though this component is not visible in the final build.
The set’s thoughtful inclusions further elevate its value. It comes complete with two interchangeable cartridges that can be inserted into the back of the handheld, mirroring the functionality of the original system. The ability to swap out screens adds another layer of customization, allowing builders to personalize their display. Accompanying these features is a neat little display stand, perfect for showcasing this intricate creation.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Lego Game Boy is its price point. At just $59.99, it represents exceptional value for a Lego set of this size and complexity. For anyone seeking a unique display piece that celebrates the golden age of portable gaming, or for those who simply appreciate ingenious Lego design, this set comes with our highest recommendation. It’s a tangible reminder of gaming history, rendered in the timeless medium of Lego bricks, and a perfect conversation starter for any gaming enthusiast’s collection.
This Weekend’s Gaming Verdict:
As the digital curtains draw on another week, the choices for your weekend gaming adventures are as varied as they are compelling. Whether you choose to revisit the celestial wonders of Super Mario Galaxy, embark on a revenge-fueled journey in Ghost of Yōtei, delve into the classic charm of Dragon Quest III: HD-2D Remake, train digital creatures in Digimon Story: Time Stranger, or even build a piece of gaming history with the Lego Game Boy, you are in for an unforgettable experience. Each of these titles represents a pinnacle of its respective genre and offers a unique way to unwind and immerse yourself in the boundless world of video games. We encourage you to share your own weekend gaming plans and discoveries in the comments below. Happy gaming from all of us at Gaming News!