As a games journalist, it’s pretty much a given that keeping up with every shiny new release can be overwhelming. But if you’re someone who eagerly awaits the latest titles, January is an ideal time to dive into your backlog. Personally, I took advantage of the Steam Winter Sale to snag a few 2024 hits I had missed—like Satisfactory and Trash Goblin—along with some older gems like Firewatch and Dave the Diver. I also grabbed Tiny Glade at the tail end of 2024, and finally, in August, I embarked on my first journey through Baldur’s Gate 3.
Just because it’s 2025 doesn’t mean these games have lost their charm. On the contrary, there’s something particularly gratifying about experiencing titles that aren’t brand new; it feels like joining a club that already knows the brilliance of Firewatch. It’s akin to diving into a timeless novel. So, if you find yourself facing a daunting backlog, my advice is to begin with the oldest games and move forward—or revisit a title you set aside long ago. It’s a great way to rekindle your passion for a game, a genre, or a studio, regardless of the big upcoming releases. And who knows, you might just discover your personal 2025 game of the year along the way.
