The Game Awards 2025 has brought together a diverse set of nominees for Game of the Year, and data from Alinea Analytics provides a clear picture of how these games have performed commercially. The nominees this year include a mix of highly anticipated sequels, new intellectual properties, and standout indie releases. Collectively, these titles have sold over 20 million copies, demonstrating strong engagement across multiple platforms. The awards ceremony, hosted by Geoff Keighley, will air on December 11, but the sales numbers already highlight the year’s standout releases.
Silksong Dominates with Strong Fan Support
Hollow Knight: Silksong, which launched on September 4, has sold approximately 5.5 million copies across platforms, including one million on consoles. An additional two million players accessed the game through Game Pass. Approaching $100 million in revenue, Silksong exemplifies how an indie game can achieve mainstream success through a combination of long-term anticipation, a dedicated fanbase, and positive critical reception. The game’s Metroidvania design and polished mechanics have resonated strongly with players, reinforcing the impact of community support on indie game performance.
Expedition 33 Defies JRPG Expectations
Expedition 33, released on April 24, has sold around 5.3 million copies. Steam accounts for three million of those, while 1.8 million were purchased on PS5 and over 500,000 on Xbox. Game Pass added another three million players. The title challenges the perception that modern JRPGs struggle in the current market, demonstrating that strong reviews, pre-launch wishlist numbers, influencer coverage, and competitive pricing can drive significant sales. Expedition 33’s success highlights the continued demand for well-executed JRPGs in both Western and global markets.
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 Shows Consistent Performance
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, which launched on February 4, is approaching four million copies sold across Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox. Almost two-thirds of sales come from Steam, and the total including Epic and Windows stores recently surpassed four million according to Warhorse Studios. The game’s immersive sandbox RPG elements and player-driven mechanics have contributed to its reception. Interestingly, less than half of KCD2 players on Steam played the original, indicating strong appeal to new audiences, and around 5% of Steam players are from Czechia, reflecting the game’s local origins.
Hades 2 Continues to Engage Players
Hades 2, which entered early access in May 2024 and fully launched on September 25, has sold close to three million copies. The title maintains a steady daily player base of roughly 100,000 on Steam. Supergiant Games’ careful use of early access, frequent updates, and responsiveness to community feedback has reinforced trust and engagement among fans, supporting ongoing sales growth. The game continues to build on the roguelike mechanics and mythological storytelling that made the first Hades a standout in indie gaming.
Death Stranding 2 Sales and Steam Potential
Death Stranding 2, a PS5 exclusive released on June 26, has seen slower sales relative to other PlayStation Studios titles but has received positive critical feedback. About a quarter of players are based in China, a market that is more Steam-oriented than console-focused. The planned Steam port is expected to extend the game’s sales lifecycle, as observed with other PlayStation Studios PC releases. Combined with the visibility of being a Game Awards nominee, Death Stranding 2 is likely to see a longer-term boost in engagement.
Donkey Kong Bananza Strengthens Nintendo’s Portfolio
Nintendo’s Switch 2-exclusive Donkey Kong Bananza has sold 3.49 million copies as of September 30, according to the company’s financial reporting. With 10.36 million Switch 2 consoles sold, the title holds an attach rate of 34%, positioning it for strong holiday performance. Nintendo is actively rebuilding Donkey Kong into a core franchise through coordinated efforts across games, film, and theme park expansions. Bananza is on track to surpass Donkey Kong Country’s 9.3 million copies, potentially becoming the best-selling Donkey Kong game to date.
2025: A Year of Strong Gaming Releases
Across Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch 2, 2025 has been marked by strong releases across all segments of gaming, from indie titles to AAA blockbusters. The Game Awards nominees reflect this diversity, demonstrating that both established franchises and innovative new games can achieve significant commercial success.
Source: Alinea Analytics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which game has sold the most copies among the 2025 Game Awards nominees?
Hollow Knight: Silksong leads with an estimated 5.5 million copies sold, including console and Game Pass players.
How many copies has Expedition 33 sold?
Expedition 33 has sold around 5.3 million copies across Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox, with an additional three million players through Game Pass.
What is the total sales figure for Kingdom Come Deliverance 2?
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 is nearing four million copies sold, with a significant portion of its player base coming from Steam.
How is Donkey Kong Bananza performing on Switch 2?
As of September 30, Donkey Kong Bananza has sold 3.49 million copies, representing a 34% attach rate on the Switch 2.
Will Death Stranding 2 benefit from a Steam release?
Yes, the upcoming Steam port is expected to extend the game’s sales lifecycle and reach a wider audience, particularly in regions where PC gaming is more prevalent.
How does Alinea Analytics collect this sales data?
Alinea Analytics compiles estimates from multiple sources including platform-specific sales, Game Pass engagement, and financial reporting, providing a comprehensive view of game performance.
