One of the most exciting parts of Game Fest is the Play to Win section—where you don’t just get to try new games, but you also have a chance to take one home! This year’s lineup is packed with everything from cooperative party games to deep strategy titles, ensuring there’s something for every type of gamer.
With so many great choices, which ones should you make sure to play? Here are the 10 most anticipated Play to Win games at Game Fest 2025 that you won’t want to miss!
Top 10 Play to Wins at the Great Plains Game Festival 2025
1. ITO
10 Min
If you love Wavelength, Ito is going to be right up your alley! In this cooperative guessing game, players try to get their teammates to guess a secret number between 1 and 100. The catch? You can only give a thematic clue that represents where your number falls on the scale. It’s a hilarious and creative challenge that gets even funnier as players try to align their logic.
2. Arcs
60-120 Min
For fans of heavier strategy games, Arcs is one of the biggest Play to Win games at the fest. This epic sci-fi game blends trick-taking mechanics with action points, area control, and dynamic storytelling. With deep strategy and evolving player choices, Arcs offers an experience that will keep you thinking long after the game ends. Expect a multi-hour adventure that’s well worth your time!
3. Robot Quest Arena
30-60 Min
From Wise Wizard Games (the creators of Star Realms), Robot Quest Arena is a fast-paced battle game where you control customizable battle bots. Combining deckbuilding with a modular battlefield, this game is high-energy, interactive, and endlessly repayable. If you love mech battles, strategic upgrades, and fast decision-making, this is a must-play!
4. Rolling Realms Redux
30-45 Min
The long-awaited follow-up to the Covid-era hit Rolling Realms is finally here! Redux brings a standalone experience with new realms, new challenges, and fresh mechanics to explore. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or new to the game, this is a great pick for roll-and-write lovers looking for a casual but engaging experience.
5. Bonsai
40 Min
Few games are as calming yet competitive as Bonsai! In this tile-laying game, you’ll cultivate your own miniature bonsai tree by selecting, arranging, and growing branches to fulfill specific goals. With its gorgeous design, satisfying solo mode, and engaging multiplayer gameplay, Bonsai is perfect for players looking for a relaxing yet strategic experience.
6. Fish & Katz
30 Min
Get ready for fast-paced fun with Fish & Katz! Each player wears an adorable cloth cat paw and races to grab the fish cards they need to complete sets. This quick, interactive, and silly game is perfect for younger kids and families—but don’t be fooled, adults will get just as competitive trying to snatch up the best fish!
7. Little Alchemists
20-40 Min
From CGE Games, Little Alchemists brings a unique twist on family gaming. This game incorporates a mobile app to enhance play, offering new rules over time to help kids naturally progress from simple mechanics to more advanced strategies. If you’re looking for a fun and educational game for younger players, this is a fantastic choice!
8. Panda Royale
20-30 Min
There’s a reason Panda Royale was our most-played Play to Win game of 2024—it’s back by popular demand! This fast, fun, and lighthearted game is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and sneaky strategy, making it an absolute hit at the table. If you didn’t get to play it last year, don’t miss your chance to jump into the panda-packed mayhem this time around!
9. Pass Pass
20-30 Min
If you enjoy trick-taking games with a twist, Pass Pass is one to check out. In this game, you’ll form temporary alliances, bluff, and strategize to ensure your card’s color ends up in the majority for each round. It’s a social and strategic experience that will have you thinking several moves ahead—plus, it’s an easy game to learn but tough to master!
10. Sequitur
30-60 Min
Unlike traditional word games that rely on a huge vocabulary, Sequitur is all about adapting to unique challenges. Instead of just forming words, players focus on specific objectives that determine the best play. With gorgeous, oversized components and simple rules, Sequitur is an eye-catching and engaging game that offers something
Find this one at Game Fest!
Ready to Play?
The Play to Win section at Game Fest is always one of the biggest highlights of the event, and this year’s lineup is better than ever! Whether you’re looking for a quick party game, a deep strategy experience, or something to play with the family, there’s a game waiting for you to discover, play, and maybe even take home!
Which of these games are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to stop by the Play to Win area at Game Fest to get your name in the running for some amazing games!
