The gaming industry has witnessed a multitude of technological advancements, and with each passing year, new titles emerge that push the boundaries of what’s possible. However, only a select few games have truly earned the title of “best,” shaping the gaming landscape and influencing generations of players. These games stand as pillars of innovation, storytelling, and gameplay, often setting trends that other games follow. In this article, we will take a deep dive into some of the best games ever made, examining how they’ve left a lasting mark on the gaming world.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is widely considered one of the best games ever made. Released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, it was a revolutionary action-adventure game that set the standard for future titles in the genre. Its 3D world was vast and immersive, offering players a blend of exploration, puzzles, and combat. Its time-travel mechanic, iconic music, and story have all contributed to making it an unforgettable gaming experience. The game’s influence can still be felt in modern titles, as it was one of the first to seamlessly integrate complex storytelling with engaging gameplay mechanics.
Another game that holds a special place in gaming history is Final Fantasy VII. Released in 1997 on the PlayStation, Final Fantasy VII was a landmark title in the RPG genre. Its expansive world, compelling narrative, and deep character development set a new standard for RPGs. Players followed Cloud Strife, a mercenary turned hero, on his journey to stop the megacorporation Shinra and its plans for world domination. The characters, especially the enigmatic Sephiroth, became iconic, and the game’s plot twist and moments of emotional depth have left a permanent imprint on players’ hearts. Its success helped elevate the PlayStation as the go-to console for RPGs.
On the more modern side, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a game that has taken the world by storm since its release in 2015. This open-world RPG, developed by CD Projekt Red, follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, in his quest to find his adopted daughter while navigating a war-torn world. What sets The Witcher 3 apart is its deep narrative, where every choice you make affects the world around you. The game offers a rich, living world full of side quests, memorable characters, and intricate lore. Its combination of storytelling, exploration, and combat has made it a staple of modern RPGs and cemented its place among the best games ever made.
In the action-adventure genre, Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out as one of the best open-world games ever created. Released in 2018 by Rockstar Games, it takes players to the American Wild West at the turn of the 20th century. Players control Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as they navigate moral dilemmas, survive the harsh wilderness, and evade the law. The game’s detailed world, engaging narrative, and stunning visuals set it apart as one of the most immersive experiences in gaming. Its emotional depth, particularly the bond between Arthur and his gang members, gives it a unique place in the hearts of players.
For fans of fast-paced action, Doom (2016) is a revitalization of a classic. The modern iteration of this iconic shooter combines intense combat, heavy metal music, and brutal demon-slaying action. Doom’s fluid gameplay and relentless pace make it one of the best first-person shooters of the past decade. It harks back to the roots of the series while introducing new mechanics that make it feel fresh and exhilarating. The game’s design, which emphasizes speed, precision, and chaos, has made it a go-to title for fans of adrenaline-pumping action.
The Grand Theft Auto series has consistently been a leader in open-world game design, and Grand Theft Auto V is arguably its crowning achievement. irit4d Released in 2013, GTA V offers players a sprawling, open world where they can take on the role of three protagonists. Each character’s story is intertwined as they navigate the criminal underworld of Los Santos. The game’s attention to detail, vast world, and endless activities make it a living, breathing universe. Its multiplayer component, GTA Online, continues to thrive, providing players with constant updates, events, and new content. GTA V is one of the most commercially successful games of all time, and it continues to set the standard for open-world gameplay.
In a different vein, Overwatch changed the landscape of team-based shooters when it was released in 2016. Blizzard’s colorful, hero-based first-person shooter offered something different from traditional military shooters. It introduced a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles, creating a game where teamwork was just as important as individual skill. Its vibrant art style, strategic gameplay, and constant updates have kept Overwatch relevant, with an ever-growing community of players. The game’s emphasis on cooperation over competition made it a fresh take on the genre, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent team-based shooters.
Lastly, Minecraft, though different from the other games on this list, has become a cultural phenomenon. Since its release in 2011, Minecraft has evolved from a simple sandbox game to a massive platform for creativity and exploration. The game’s blocky graphics and open-ended gameplay allow players to build, explore, and survive in a procedurally generated world. It has become more than just a game—it’s a community, a learning tool, and an art form. Minecraft’s accessibility and infinite possibilities make it one of the best games in terms of pure creative freedom.
In conclusion, the best games are those that leave a lasting impact on players and the industry. These games, whether through innovative gameplay, deep narratives, or immersive worlds, have set the standard for what video games can be. From the pioneering Ocarina of Time to the modern marvels like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2, these titles have redefined what is possible in the gaming world and will continue to be celebrated for years to come.