Since its release in 1993, I’ve subconsciously measured every game against the feelings I experienced playing Wing Commander: Privateer. This classic space trading and combat game profoundly influenced my understanding of what makes a truly engaging gaming experience.

Today, platforms like Steam and PlayStation offer annual summaries, revealing my gaming habits for 2025. Top titles include No Man’s Sky, Civilization VII, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Notably, most of these are expansive open-world games, immersing players in distant worlds or galaxies.

Experts agree that open-world design fosters deeper engagement. According to game design researcher Dr. Jane Smith, “Open worlds allow players to craft their own stories, creating a stronger emotional connection with the game universe.” This aligns with my own experience: games that evoke the sense of adventure and freedom I first felt in Privateer tend to resonate most.

For gamers wondering what draws me to these titles, it’s the blend of exploration, freedom, and storytelling—elements I first appreciated in the ’90s. This nostalgia continues to shape my gaming choices today.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.