When it comes to “best games,” the definition often varies depending on personal taste, nostalgia, and what each individual seeks from their gaming experience. However, certain titles rise above the rest, transcending generations of gaming hardware to become iconic. These are the games that shaped the medium, pushed technological boundaries, and created unforgettable experiences. From vast open worlds to emotionally driven narratives, these are the games that have set benchmarks for what is possible within the world of gaming. Whether they belong to older consoles or the latest generations, they share a common trait—they offer something memorable that continues to resonate with players long after the credits roll.
One of the most influential games ever made is Super Mario Bros. (1985), which revolutionized platformers and the entire gaming landscape. The simple yet addictive gameplay mechanics introduced the world to Mario, the plumber who would become an enduring symbol of video games. The game’s tight controls, colorful levels, and catchy music created an experience that was accessible to players of all ages. At the time of its release, the ability to explore varied worlds, defeat enemies, and jump across obstacles in a two-dimensional world was an innovation that redefined what video games could be.
As the gaming industry evolved into the 3D era, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) became the gold standard for action-adventure games. Its expansive world of Hyrule, filled with puzzles, dungeons, and memorable characters, set the stage for modern open-world design. The introduction of time manipulation through the use of music, as well as the blend of exploration and combat, made it one of the most groundbreaking titles in the genre. Ocarina of Time is often cited as one of the best games of all time due to its innovative gameplay and its deep, emotional narrative.
The turn of the millennium saw the rise of the role-playing game (RPG) genre, and Final Fantasy VII (1997) played a central role in this revolution. Released on the PlayStation, Final Fantasy VII expanded the possibilities of RPGs with its cinematic cutscenes, complex characters, and a world brimming with lore. The story, focusing on Cloud Strife and his band of misfits fighting to save the planet, captivated players with its emotional depth, while the turn-based battle system offered both strategic depth and accessibility. The game’s visuals, music, and themes left a permanent imprint on gamers worldwide, making it one of the defining games of its generation.
The Grand Theft Auto series became synonymous with open-world chaos, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004) represents the apex of the series’ influence. Set in a sprawling, fictional version of California, San Andreas offered players an unparalleled level of freedom. Whether you wanted to take on missions, engage in gang warfare, explore the expansive world, or even customize your character’s appearance, the game allowed for total autonomy. The game’s narrative, focused on gang culture, family loyalty, and betrayal, resonated deeply with players, while its satirical humor offered social commentary on American culture.
More recently, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) emerged as an open-world masterpiece, offering one of the most expansive and immersive Cipit88 Login experiences ever seen in gaming. Set in the icy world of Skyrim, players could carve out their own adventure, whether they wanted to slay dragons, join factions, or explore hidden caves. The game’s world felt alive, with NPCs carrying on their own lives independent of the player’s actions, and its quests ranged from grand, world-saving missions to the simplest, most personal stories. The richness of its world, combined with nearly infinite replayability, made Skyrim one of the best games of the decade.
For a more narrative-driven experience, The Last of Us (2013) became a critical and commercial sensation. Set in a post-apocalyptic America, it tells the harrowing journey of Joel and Ellie, who must navigate a world filled with both human and infected threats. What set The Last of Us apart was its ability to blend action and storytelling seamlessly. The complex, morally gray characters felt fully realized, and the brutal combat system was complemented by moments of introspection and deep emotional resonance. This game elevated the bar for narrative-driven action-adventure games and proved that video games could tell stories as rich and engaging as any movie or novel.
Lastly, Elden Ring (2022) deserves mention as one of the best games of all time. A collaboration between FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin, Elden Ring combined the studio’s signature challenging combat with a vast, open world. The game’s dark fantasy narrative was supplemented by an atmospheric world that felt deep and mysterious, urging players to explore and uncover secrets. What made Elden Ring truly exceptional was the sense of freedom and discovery, coupled with punishing difficulty and rewarding exploration, all of which made it a standout title of the PlayStation 5 era.
The best games of all time are those that challenge, innovate, and inspire. They are not simply pieces of entertainment but cultural artifacts that leave a lasting legacy on both the industry and players alike. Whether it’s through groundbreaking technology, captivating storytelling, or revolutionary gameplay, these games have earned their place in history.