Gaming has evolved dramatically since its inception, with genres expanding and technological advancements pushing the boundaries of what we can experience. However, some games transcend their time, creating new standards and defining entire generations of gaming. These are the best games ever made—titles that not only captivated players but also influenced the industry in profound ways. From expansive open worlds to immersive narratives, these games have set benchmarks that future releases strive to meet.
One of the most iconic games to leave a lasting legacy is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998, Ocarina of Time is often considered the greatest video game of all time due to its groundbreaking design and captivating narrative. The game’s blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and action set a new standard for adventure games. It introduced the Z-targeting system, which made combat more dynamic and accessible, and its soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, became synonymous with the sense of adventure and wonder the game evoked. The sheer quality and depth of the experience made it a cornerstone of video game history.
In the realm of open-world games, Grand Theft Auto V revolutionized the genre by creating a massive, living, breathing world that players could immerse themselves in. Rockstar Games crafted an intricate environment where every street, every alley, and every building felt alive with activity. The narrative intertwined the lives of three very different protagonists, each with their own story arcs, and the game’s missions ranged from heart-pounding heists to comedic side activities. GTA V set a new standard for freedom in gaming, allowing players to engage with the world on their terms, whether they wanted to complete missions or simply go on a joyride across the vast cityscape.
Another title that has left a permanent mark on the gaming landscape is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. CD Projekt Red’s masterpiece took role-playing games to a new level with its rich narrative and complex characters. The game’s branching Siji4D storylines and decision-making mechanics meant that no two playthroughs were alike, and the world of The Witcher 3 was one of the most detailed and immersive ever created. Players followed Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with a troubled past, on his quest to find his adopted daughter. The game was lauded not only for its storytelling but also for its expansive open world, which was filled with rich lore, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of engaging side quests.
Moving to the action-adventure genre, Red Dead Redemption 2 remains one of the best games to ever grace a gaming platform. Rockstar Games once again delivered an open world like no other, this time immersing players in the dying days of the American frontier. The game’s stunning visuals, realistic interactions, and deeply emotional narrative earned it widespread acclaim. Players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as he navigates the harsh realities of life in a lawless land. Red Dead Redemption 2 is not just a game; it’s an experience that immerses players in a hauntingly beautiful world and tells a story of loss, loyalty, and the inevitability of change.
When it comes to platformers, Super Mario 64 revolutionized the genre by introducing 3D gameplay in a way that felt fresh and innovative. The game was released for the Nintendo 64 in 1996, and its open-ended design allowed players to explore levels in a way that had never been done before. Mario’s iconic jumps, slides, and flips took on new dimensions in the 3D environment, and the game’s vibrant world captured the essence of what makes platformers so appealing. Super Mario 64 was not only an incredibly fun game but also one that set the standard for 3D platformers that followed.
Another legendary game that has stood the test of time is Dark Souls. FromSoftware’s brutal and unforgiving action RPG created a new genre of challenging gameplay that many have tried to replicate. What makes Dark Souls so special is its approach to difficulty—rather than punishing players for mistakes, the game rewards patience and strategic thinking. The interconnected world, with its hidden secrets and cryptic lore, created an atmosphere of mystery and discovery. Players were thrust into a dark fantasy world filled with deadly creatures, where every fight felt like a high-stakes battle. Dark Souls is a masterclass in design, and its influence can still be felt in modern games.
The evolution of gaming is a direct result of the innovation and passion poured into these best games. Whether it’s the open worlds of GTA V and The Witcher 3, the groundbreaking mechanics of Ocarina of Time, or the emotional depth of Red Dead Redemption 2, these games have shaped how we experience video games today. They pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible, and in doing so, they created lasting legacies that will continue to influence future generations of players and developers alike.