As technology advances and gaming continues to push the boundaries, new contenders may emerge to challenge the titles on this list. However, the top 10 best video games of all time will forever be etched in gaming history and will be cherished by gamers for generations.
Playing games has been a popular pastime for many years and provides many hours of entertainment. There are thousands of fantastic video games on many different platforms, and more are released every year, so debating which ones are the best is an ongoing conversation. Some games won the top spot because of nostalgia, others because of their great graphics and story, and many were just too great to put down, keeping players locked to their screens far longer than is probably healthy. Let’s take a look at some of the best video games of all time.
The world of video games is vast and ever-evolving, filled with countless memorable titles that have captured the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. The Top 10 Best Video Games of All Time represent the pinnacle of gaming excellence, transcending generations and leaving a lasting legacy in the gaming industry.
These games have achieved what many aspire to but few have: becoming iconic, defining their respective genres, and setting new standards for storytelling, gameplay, and innovation. From epic adventures to thrilling action, these games have transported players to fantastical worlds, immersing them in rich stories and immersive gaming experiences.
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The Timeless Classics: Can These Top 10 Games Still Hold Up Today?
The success of these games is not only based on their commercial success but also on their ability to create a deep emotional connection with players. They became more than just games; they’re cultural phenomena that fuel fan communities, fan art, and even inspiring adaptations into other media.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- Critic score: 99/100
- User score: 9.2/10
- Platforms: Nintendo 64, Nintendo DS, Virtual Console (various platforms)
“As a young boy, Link is tricked by Ganondorf, the Gerudo King of Thieves. The evil man uses Link to gain access to the Sacred Realm, where he lays his tainted hands on the Triforce, turning the beautiful Hyrule landscape into a barren wasteland.”
Determined to solve the problems he helped create, Link travels through time with the help of Raur and gathers the powers of the Seven Sages.”
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2. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
- Critic score: 98/100
- User score: 7.4/10
- Platforms: PlayStation, PC, Game Boy Color, Dreamcast, Mac, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, iOS, Xbox
“The Hawk is back—with new technology, new pros, and new tricks! ‘THPS2’, the legend lives on! Skate as the legendary Tony Hawk or any of the 12 other pro skaters.
Create your own skaters. Multiple game modes include 1-player Modes, Career, and Free Skate, as well as 2-player Modes such as Trick Attack, Graffiti Tag, and Horse. Create your own skateparks using the real-time 3D park editor.”
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3. Grand Theft Auto IV
- Critic score: 98/100
- User score: 7.5/10
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC
“What does the American Dream mean today? Niko Belic, fresh from Europe’s the hope that he can escape his past. For his cousin Roman, it’s the vision that together they can find happiness in Liberty City, the gateway to the land of opportunity.
In a city obsessed with money and status, their dreams shatter when they fall into crippling debt and become entangled with dangerous criminals. Reality proves harsh, with the city being a haven for the privileged and a living nightmare for the underprivileged.
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4. SoulCalibur
- Critic score: 98/100
- User score: 8.6/10
- Platforms: Dreamcast, iOS, Arcade, Xbox 360, Xbox One
“This is a story of souls and swords, transcending the world and all its history, told throughout all eternity. This opening statement sets the tone for an epic and timeless story that revolves around the souls and legendary swords of various characters.
“The ultimate gun-based fighter is back, this time on the Sega Dreamcast.” This line suggests that the game being described is a sequel or sequel to a previously popular fighting game that revolves around characters using weapons to fight each other. The mention of “Sega Dreamcast” means the platform the game is available on, indicating its release on that game console.
“Soul Calibur features incredible graphics, fantastic fighters, and combos so amazing they’ll make your head spin!” This part of the description highlights the exceptional qualities of the game. “Incredible graphics” suggests that the visuals and animations are of high quality, enhancing the overall gaming experience. “Fantastic Fighters” suggests that the game features a diverse and impressive roster of characters with unique fighting styles, personalities, and stories.
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5. Super Mario Galaxy
- Critic score: 97/100
- User score: 9.0/10
- Platform: Wii
“Nintendo’s greatest hero takes the ultimate step into space. Join Mario as he ushers in a new era of gravity-defying video games on every planet in the galaxy. When a creature escapes into space with Princess Peach, Mario pursues and explores bizarre planets throughout the galaxy. Mario, Peach, and enemies new and old are here. Players run, jump, and fight enemies while exploring all the planets in the galaxy.
Because this game takes full advantage of all the Wii Remote’s features, players have to do all kinds of things to succeed: pressing buttons, swinging the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, and even pointing and dragging things with the pointer. Since Mario is in space, he can perform mind-bending jumps, unlike anything he’s done before.
He’ll also have a bunch of new moves that are based on tilting, pointing, and shaking the Wii Remote. Shake, tilt, and aim! Mario takes advantage of all the unique aspects of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, unlocking new moves when players shake the controller and even point and drag objects with the pointer.”
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6. Super Mario Galaxy 2
- Critic score: 97/100
- User score: 9.1/10
- Platform: Wii
“Super Mario Galaxy 2, The galaxy-hopping sequel, packed with new galaxies and challenges, builds on the gravity and physics exploration of the original game.
Mario teams up with his dinosaur friend Yoshi, using his tongue to grab objects and defeat enemies. Additionally, players can enjoy new items like a drill to break through solid rock.
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7. Red Dead Redemption 2
- Critic score: 97/100
- User score: 7.7/10
- Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4
“Developed by the creators of ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ and ‘Red Dead Redemption’, Red Dead Redemption 2 is an epic story about life in the ruthless heartland of America. The game’s vast and atmospheric world also provides the foundation for a brand-new online multiplayer experience. America, 1899. The end of the Wild West era has begun. After a heist goes wrong in the western town of Blackwater, Arthur Morgan, and the Van der Linde gang are forced to go on the run.
With federal agents and the nation’s best bounty hunters hot on their heels, the gang must rob, steal, and fight its way through America’s rugged heartland to survive. As deepening internal rifts threaten to tear the gang apart, Arthur must decide between his own ideals and loyalty to the gang that raised him.”
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8. Grand Theft Auto V
- Critic score: 96/100
- User score: 7.8/10
- Platforms: Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC
Amidst the turmoil, three very unique criminals plot their own chances at survival and success. Franklin is a street hustler looking for tangible opportunities and serious money. Michael, an ex-professional con whose retirement isn’t as rosy as he thought, and Trevor, a violent guy driven by the opportunity for a cheap high and his next big score,
With options for premium, the crew risks everything in countless daring and dangerous robberies that could cost them their lives.”
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9. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- Critic score: 97/100
- User score: 8.4/10
- Platforms: Wii U, Switch
“Forget everything you know about The Legend of Zelda games. Enter a world of discovery, exploration, and adventure in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a new game in the acclaimed series that crosses borders.
Travel across fields, forests, and to the mountaintops as you discover what has become of the ruined kingdom of Hyrule in this open-air adventure. Explore the wilds of Hyrule as you wish.”
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10. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3
- Critic score: 97/100
- User score: 7.4/10
- Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation, Game Boy Color, GameCube, Xbox, Game Boy Advance, PC, Nintendo 64, Mac
“Challenge up to four friends to online competitions via LAN or the Internet. Take them on in Trick Attack and Graffiti mode.” Hawk 3, is the third video game in Tony Hawk’s series. It was developed by Neversoft and published by Activision (SUCCESS Corporation in Japan).
In 2001, the Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Color, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation It was released in 2002 for the Nintendo 64, Xbox, PC, and Game Boy Advance. It was the first game released for the PlayStation 2 to support online play and the last game released on the Nintendo 64 in the United States.
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FAQ on Best video games of all time
Q: How were the top 10 video games of all time chosen?
The selection process involved consideration of various factors, including critical acclaim, popularity, cultural impact, innovation, and overall impact on the gaming industry. A panel of experts also evaluated the games based on their lasting legacy and player acceptance.
Q: Are these rankings based on sales data only?
No, the rankings are not based solely on sales figures. Although sales success is an important factor, it is not the only criterion. The games were ranked based on a combination of factors to provide a comprehensive list of the best video games of all time.
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Q: Is this list focused on a specific genre or era?
The list aims to be diverse and inclusive, covering a variety of genres and eras. It includes both classic and modern games from a variety of genres, ensuring a well-rounded representation of the best in the gaming industry.
Q: Can I play these games on modern gaming platforms?
Many of the games on the list have been remastered or are compatible with modern gaming platforms. However, some classic titles may require specific consoles or emulators to play on current systems.
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Q5: Are these games still fun today?
Absolutely! Despite their age, the top 10 games have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by players of all generations. Their gameplay, narrative, and overall experience remain engaging and captivating.
Q: Can I find these games on digital distribution platforms?
Yes, most of the games on the list are available on popular digital distribution platforms such as Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Live, and Nintendo eShop.
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Q: Are any of these games suitable for children?
The suitability of games depends on their content and age rating. While some are family-friendly and suitable for all ages, others may have content that is more suitable for mature players. It is essential to check age ratings and content descriptions before letting children play.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gaming is an ever-evolving and captivating art form that offers players around the world new experiences and adventures. The top 10 best video games of all time stand as a testament to gaming’s ability to entertain, inspire, and unite people from all walks of life. So grab your controller, immerse yourself in these masterpieces, and embark on unforgettable gaming experiences that will last a lifetime.
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