As the gaming calendar turns to 2026, we at In Game News are taking a crucial look back at 2025, specifically at the incredible visual prowess and community engagement showcased by PlayStation's "Share of the Year." What started as a simple hashtag has evolved into a vibrant gallery, proving Photo Mode isn't just a gimmick, but a core feature enabling players to immortalize truly clutch moments and breathtaking vistas.

For years, we've watched Photo Modes transition from niche curiosities to essential Quality-of-Life (QoL) additions, with developers understanding their power to extend gameplay and foster creative expression. This year's roundup, curated from the #PSshare and #PSBlog tags, is arguably one of the most compelling demonstrations yet of how players, armed with in-game cameras, push the boundaries of virtual photography, often capturing details even the dev teams might miss.

Our Picks for Standout Captures from 2025:

  • SheikhSadi80 (Death Stranding 2: On The Beach): A raw, visceral capture of Sam caught in a BT encounter, reminding us that Kojima's next opus will likely push the tension envelope further.
  • fwto_ (Ghost of Yōtei): The stark, black-and-white aesthetic of Atsu traversing a waterfall proves that sometimes, less color means more drama – a nod to its spiritual predecessor's iconic art style.
  • __Auron__ (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33): A compelling portrait of Maelle wielding her weapon, spotlighting the intricate character design and artistry that has us eager for this title's full reveal.
  • PhotoModeColin (Cyberpunk 2077): A typically intense scene from Night City, showcasing the game's continued visual fidelity and its capacity for grim, street-level storytelling long after its initial launch.
  • Yuric83 (Silent Hill f): Hinako's eerie gaze through the red vines—a shot that perfectly encapsulates the psychological dread and unsettling beauty we expect from the franchise, signaling a potent return to form.
  • wingsforsmiles (Star Wars Outlaws): A sprawling desert vista, painting a clear picture of the sheer scale and cinematic potential of its open-world sandbox – a potential game-changer for the Star Wars universe.
  • pavesoint (Infinity Nikki): An exquisite, ornate outfit, highlighting the game's undeniable fashion focus and graphical ambition in character customization. This isn't just a dress-up game; it's a statement.
  • NemesisNatVP (Lost Records: Bloom & Rage): Kat's enigmatic bird mask offers a tantalizing glimpse into its narrative and unique art direction, suggesting a strong contender for best new IP.
  • RazinZamee (Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024): A stunning take-off sequence, demonstrating its unparalleled photorealism and pushing the graphical boundaries of simulation games. The fidelity here is simply unmatched.
  • Photomode_Raro (The Alters): A solitary, space-faring moment, hinting at its atmospheric narrative and the existential questions it promises to explore, perhaps setting a new bar for sci-fi introspection.
  • evo_pixel (Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater): A classic, grizzled portrait of Snake, confirming the visual overhaul is on point, retaining the iconic aesthetic while delivering next-gen polish. This is the remake fans have been waiting for.
  • calisarah1998 (Days Gone Remastered): Deacon and his bike, bathed in stylish light, proving that a solid remaster can breathe new life into beloved titles, elevating their original presentation for current-gen hardware.

These curated highlights are just a fraction of the incredible talent out there. For those seeking to flex their own virtual photography muscles, the next "Share of the Week" theme focuses on:

  • Theme: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
  • Submission Deadline: January 14, 2026, 11:59 PM PT
  • Hashtags: #PSshare #PSBlog

We anticipate stunning captures from players exploring Lumiere and its environs. The sheer volume of high-quality submissions reinforces our long-held belief: Photo Mode is no longer a peripheral feature. It’s a core component, a digital easel for millions, fostering community and showcasing the breathtaking artistry inherent in modern game development.

These community showcases are more than just a gallery; they're a barometer of gaming's visual evolution and a testament to the passionate player base driving its culture. Keep those cameras clicking, folks – your next viral shot could be just around the corner, cementing your place in gaming's visual history.