Weekend Gaming Picks: 5 Exciting Titles We’re Eager to Dive Back Into

As the holiday week comes to a close, many of us on the East Coast are eagerly anticipating a few inches of snow (fingers crossed for no rain). I’m not alone in hoping for a quiet weekend where I can squeeze in an hour or two of gaming before the end-of-year festivities and the rush back to reality in 2026. If you’re in need of some gaming suggestions, here’s what’s on my radar for the weekend.

Play it on: PC, Switch (also available on Switch 2)

Goal: Catch the legendary King Salmon of Safety Cove

It’s that peculiar week between Christmas and New Year’s, a time when many of us, myself included, feel the urge to do as little as possible. Enter *Cast n Chill*, a perfect fit for this vibe, now available on Switch and Switch 2. This fishing game features an idle mode, allowing you to let your pixel-art fisherman reel in fish while you kick back and relax. When you return, you’ll find you’ve earned some cash to spend on new rods, boats, and licenses at the bait and tackle shop.

What makes *Cast n Chill* so enjoyable is its laid-back nature, whether you’re actively playing or just letting it run. The game’s fishing spots are beautifully crafted, filled with intricate details, and the soothing sounds of nature create a calming atmosphere. Even while I’m working at my desk, the tranquil sounds make me feel like I’m out on the water. Playing *Cast n Chill* may be screen time, but it serves as a gentle reminder of the stunning world outside, where sometimes just soaking in the beauty is more valuable than anything on a productivity list.

Play it on: PC, PS5, Xbox

Goal: Give it a second chance

As the year wraps up, I’m reflecting on a game I initially dismissed: *Unbeatable*. This anime-inspired rhythm game didn’t grab me at first due to its lackluster tutorial and music, but now that I have some time, I think it deserves another shot. I love rhythm games, the thrill of doing crimes, and *Unbeatable*’s punk vibe. Even if the story doesn’t hook me, I’m sure I can find enjoyment in its arcade mode if I can discover some tracks that resonate. What else am I going to do this holiday weekend?

Play it on: Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC

Goal: Enjoy some nostalgic RPG vibes

*The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*, Bethesda’s expansive open-world RPG from the Xbox 360 era, will always be a Christmas classic for me. I have fond memories of playing it by the fireplace after tearing open my gifts. So, on Christmas Eve, I decided to download this year’s remastered version of *Oblivion* and dive back in. I probably won’t finish this playthrough—finishing Bethesda RPGs is a rare feat for me—but it’s been a joy to revisit Cyrodiil during the holidays.

Play it on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC

Current Goal: Get out of the Trosky zone

I picked up *Kingdom Come 2* for PS5 during Black Friday when it was half-off, driven by a hunch that it might be one of the best games of 2025, or at least in the top five. I didn’t stick with the first game due to boredom and bugs, but several smart friends convinced me that the sequel fulfills the original’s promise and could be the best first-person immersive sim RPG out there. So far, I have no reason to doubt them, but I’m still in the early stages. Right now, I’m gearing up for the Whom the Bell Tolls quest, which I’ve heard is a standout. I’m excited to see how it unfolds!

Play it on: PC

Current Goal: Solve the occult mystery

I’m also catching up on some Game of the Year homework with *The Séance of Blake Manor*, a well-regarded title in the “click things and read tiny text on a screen to solve puzzles” genre. I can see why it’s praised; the mechanics are streamlined, and the writing is top-notch. I’m not sure if scouring an environment for clues to piece together a mystery will ever be my favorite, but I’m determined to uncover the dark magic lurking in 19th century Ireland.