Top Netflix Picks for Gamers in 2025

Netflix has had quite the year in the gaming and entertainment landscape. Its ad-supported tier, launched last year, has seen impressive growth, and the live TV segment has expanded to include everything from quirky events like hot-dog-eating contests to WWE programming. Acquiring KPop Demon Hunters for a mere fraction of its value turned out to be a savvy move, as this animated feature about demon-hunting K-pop stars became a massive hit, breaking records as the most-watched movie on the platform and sparking a global cultural phenomenon. The sing-along theatrical release sold out, its songs dominated music charts for weeks, and we even saw collaborations like Huntr/x in Fortnite and appearances in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade shortly after its debut.

But KPop Demon Hunters wasn’t the only standout this year. Here’s a look at Netflix’s top offerings of 2025.

Sean Combs: The Reckoning
This documentary serves up two crucial lessons: avoid being a terrible abuser and never anger a self-proclaimed petty man with deep pockets. Directed by Alex Stapleton and produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, this four-part docuseries chronicles Sean “P Diddy” Combs’ journey from music video actor to hip-hop mogul to convicted criminal. It features interviews with former associates and friends who allege everything from cheating business partners to having knowledge of the events surrounding Tupac Shakur’s death. While it’s not a light watch, it provides a compelling overview of Combs’ rise and the darker side of the hip-hop industry.

KPop Demon Hunters
There’s not much more to add about KPop Demon Hunters that hasn’t already been said. Its brilliance speaks for itself, with highlights including the magical harmonies that brought the film to life and its status as this year’s biggest surprise. The question remains: can Netflix replicate this success?

Wake Up Dead Man
Rian Johnson’s Knives Out series continues to deliver a sharp, humorous, and emotionally resonant whodunit. Daniel Craig shines as Benoit Blanc, supported by a stellar cast including Josh Brolin as a fiery priest and Glenn Close as his secretary. Josh O’Connor adds depth as a junior priest grappling with his faith, creating a fascinating dynamic with Blanc’s cold logic. Together, they craft a fun narrative that explores the role of faith in our lives.

Frankenstein
Guillermo del Toro is known for creating visually stunning films, and Frankenstein is no exception. With Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his creature, their performances resonate with both the film’s Victorian setting and contemporary themes. The story of a man recklessly using technology to create something beyond his control serves as a cautionary tale with multiple modern-day applications. Del Toro’s unique vision ensures that this adaptation stands out among the many.

The Great British Baking Show
I eagerly await The Great British Baking Show (or The Great British Bake Off, as it’s known elsewhere). As the days grow shorter, I know it’s time for baking season. This year, the show has introduced fresh twists to its format, including new variations on the technical challenges that test bakers with minimal instructions. While I wish there were more savory challenges, it’s always entertaining to learn the quirky names the Brits have for their pastries. Honestly, debating the oddities of British English is just as enjoyable as watching the amateur bakers in action.

Stranger Things
The first half of Stranger Things’ final season has arrived, and while opinions may vary on its quality, it does have one redeeming quality: it’s finally coming to a close. The series began with a strong narrative about kids saving the world from adult threats, but that essence has faded over the years. Despite the Duffer Brothers’ insistence that only four years have passed since Will ventured into the Upside Down, it’s time for this story to conclude, ideally returning to the core elements that made it so captivating.

Squid Game
Squid Game, another of Netflix’s flagship series, has reached its conclusion this year. Gi-hun, or Player 456, returns to the deadly games to expose their organizers once and for all. He teams up with a new group of desperate players, and just like in the previous seasons, it’s harrowing to watch as the games take their toll.

Death By Lightning
James Garfield’s presidency was tragically short, lasting just under 200 days, and Death By Lightning compellingly chronicles his rise and fall due to an assassin’s bullet. This documentary resonates with current events, examining how incendiary political rhetoric can lead to violence. The performances elevate the narrative, with Michael Shannon portraying Garfield as a relatable figure, while Shea Whigham embodies the villainous New York Senator Roscoe Conkling. Matthew Macfadyen delivers a poignant performance as Garfield’s assassin, Charles Guiteau.

The standout moments come from Nick Offerman as Garfield’s reluctant vice president, Chester A. Arthur. Offerman channels a regency-era Ron Swanson, bringing humor and charm as he navigates the chaos of the political landscape. His antics, often involving drunkenness and a love for sausages, make for a delightful viewing experience, and I could easily watch an entire sitcom centered around his character.