Some games, like cherished friends, remain with us for years; their soundtracks become ingrained in our memories, and moments of triumph or defeat still send shivers down our spines. Others blaze across the industry like brilliant meteors, setting new benchmarks for excellence. But how do we choose the "best"? For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood adventure; for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that united thousands. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their status confirmed by the most respected ratings.
We also encourage you to explore our curated selections of games across various genres:
**Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformer**
Table of Contents ---
Half-Life 2 | Portal 2 | Diablo II | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Sid Meier's Civilization V | Fallout 3 | BioShock | Red Dead Redemption 2 | Dark Souls 2 | Doom Eternal | Baldur's Gate 3 | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim | Mass Effect 2 | Grand Theft Auto V | Resident Evil 4 | Disco Elysium | RimWorld | Dwarf Fortress | World of Warcraft | StarCraft | Minecraft | Spore | Warcraft III | League of Legends | Undertale | Inscryption | This War of Mine | Hearthstone | Stardew Valley | The Beginner's Guide
Half-Life 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: November 16, 2004 | Developer: Valve
Half-Life 2, a legendary first-person shooter from Valve (2004), casts you as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist thrust into an alien-occupied world. Gameplay extends beyond shooting; you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. The gripping narrative and immersive atmosphere, depicting humanity's struggle for survival, remain remarkably impactful. Its advanced physics engine, groundbreaking for its time, still holds up today, and the intelligent enemy AI provides a consistently challenging experience.
Portal 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 95 | Download: Steam | Release Date: April 19, 2011 | Developer: Valve
Portal 2 is a delightful blend of mind-bending puzzles and sharp wit. GLaDOS, the sarcastic and sinister AI, provides constant comedic relief, complemented by the endearingly annoying Wheatley. Their interactions are a highlight, leaving a lasting impression. The puzzle design progressively increases in complexity, introducing new mechanics like gels and light bridges that add layers of strategic depth. The addition of multiplayer in the sequel further enhances the experience.
Diablo II
Image: polygon.com
Metascore: 88 | Download: Diablo II | Release Date: June 28, 2000 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Diablo II (2000) isn't just a game; it's a cultural touchstone. Blizzard's instant classic set the standard for the ARPG genre, and its dark, gothic world continues to captivate. Players choose a hero and embark on a perilous journey filled with monsters, loot, and addictive progression. The rewarding loop of acquiring new gear and upgrading skills keeps players engaged, making it a timeless classic. Its enduring popularity is evident in its re-releases, active modding community, and continued player base.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Image: xtgamer.net
Metascore: 92 | Download: Steam | Release Date: May 18, 2015 | Developer: CD PROJEKT RED
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt immerses players in a vast and richly detailed world. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you'll navigate a complex narrative filled with compelling characters and moral dilemmas. The game's depth extends beyond simple fetch quests; each mission unfolds as a complete story with unexpected twists. The award-winning title is praised for its immersive atmosphere, intricate storytelling, and memorable characters.
Sid Meier's Civilization V
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 90 | Download: Steam | Release Date: September 21, 2010 | Developer: Firaxis Games, Aspyr Media
Civilization V's enduring popularity stems from its engaging gameplay loop. Players guide a civilization through the ages, from primitive beginnings to a spacefaring empire. Strategic choices regarding city building, technological advancement, cultural development, and diplomacy shape the course of your civilization. The randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations ensure each playthrough is a unique experience, offering endless replayability.
Fallout 3
Image: newgamenetwork.com
Metascore: 93 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 28, 2008 | Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Fallout 3 (2008) set a new standard for open-world RPGs. Emerging from Vault 101, players explore the ruined landscape of Washington D.C., encountering mutants, bandits, and a vast array of choices. The game's retro soundtrack, atmospheric visuals, and immersive world-building create a memorable and nostalgic experience. Freedom of choice and a compelling post-apocalyptic setting make it a beloved classic.
BioShock
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: August 21, 2007 | Developer: 2K Boston, 2K Australia
BioShock transcends the typical action shooter genre. Set in a dystopian underwater city, the game's atmospheric world-building and narrative depth create a haunting and unforgettable experience. Environmental storytelling and intriguing lore contribute to the game's enduring appeal, sparking ongoing discussions and analysis among players.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 97 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games
Rockstar Games delivers a meticulously crafted open world in Red Dead Redemption 2. As Arthur Morgan, an outlaw in the Van der Linde gang, you'll experience the dying days of the Wild West. The immersive world allows for countless hours of exploration and gameplay, offering players the freedom to forge their own path and shape their character's destiny.
Dark Souls 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91 | Download: Steam | Release Date: March 11, 2014 | Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
Dark Souls II is renowned for its challenging gameplay and rewarding sense of accomplishment. The unforgiving difficulty is integral to the experience, forcing players to learn from their mistakes and adapt their strategies. The game's atmospheric world and lore add depth to the challenging gameplay, creating a unique and memorable experience.
Doom Eternal
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88 | Download: Steam | Release Date: March 20, 2020 | Developer: id Software
Doom Eternal delivers a pure adrenaline rush. Fast-paced combat, a massive arsenal of weapons, and a relentless onslaught of demons create an exhilarating and chaotic experience. The focus on visceral action and satisfying gameplay mechanics makes it a standout title in the first-person shooter genre.
Baldur's Gate 3
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios
Baldur's Gate 3 offers a rich and expansive RPG experience. Character creation, party management, and impactful choices shape the narrative in profound ways. The game's branching storylines and player agency make each playthrough unique and memorable.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: November 11, 2011 | Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Skyrim's enduring legacy is built upon its vast open world and unparalleled freedom. Players can choose their own path, exploring a breathtaking landscape, engaging in countless quests, and shaping their character's destiny. The game's replayability and expansive content make it a timeless classic.
Mass Effect 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: January 26, 2010 | Developer: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 delivers a compelling blend of action, exploration, and character-driven storytelling. The game's memorable characters, impactful choices, and emotional narrative create a deeply personal and unforgettable experience.
Grand Theft Auto V
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 97 | Download: Steam | Release Date: September 17, 2013 | Developer: Rockstar Games
Grand Theft Auto V offers unparalleled freedom and chaotic fun in its sprawling open world. Players can choose to follow the main storyline or explore the city at their leisure, engaging in various activities and causing mayhem.
Resident Evil 4
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: January 11, 2005 | Developer: Capcom
Resident Evil 4 redefined the survival horror genre with its dynamic action and compelling narrative. The game's blend of intense combat, puzzle-solving, and memorable characters created a lasting impact on the industry.
Disco Elysium
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM
Disco Elysium is a unique RPG experience that prioritizes narrative depth and character development over traditional gameplay mechanics. The game's writing, atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes create a truly unforgettable experience.
RimWorld
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 87 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 17, 2018 | Developer: Ludeon Studios
RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator that demands constant attention and strategic decision-making. The game's unpredictable events and emergent storytelling create a constantly engaging and replayable experience.
Dwarf Fortress
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 93 | Download: Steam | Release Date: December 6, 2022 | Developer: Bay 12 Games
Dwarf Fortress is a complex and deeply engaging colony simulator with a rich history and a dedicated following. The game's intricate systems and emergent gameplay create a unique and endlessly replayable experience.
World of Warcraft
Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
Metascore: 93 | Download: World of Warcraft | Release Date: November 23, 2004 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
World of Warcraft's enduring popularity stems from its vast world, engaging quests, and thriving community. The game's constantly evolving content and rich lore create a persistent and immersive online experience.
StarCraft
Image: polygon.com
Metascore: 88 | Download: StarCraft | Release Date: March 31, 1998 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy games with its strategic depth and competitive gameplay. The game's enduring legacy is evident in its continued popularity and influence on the esports scene.
Minecraft
Image: minecraft.net
Metascore: 93 | Download: Minecraft | Release Date: November 18, 2011 | Developer: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten
Minecraft's blocky world and limitless creative potential have captivated millions. The game's simple yet engaging mechanics and vast modding community contribute to its enduring popularity.
Spore
Image: axios.com
Metascore: 84 | Download: Steam | Release Date: September 7, 2008 | Developer: Maxis
Spore's innovative creature creator and expansive gameplay loop allowed players to shape their own unique evolutionary path. The game's ambitious scope and creative tools made it a memorable and influential title.
Warcraft III
Image: warcraft3.blizzard.com
Metascore: 92 | Download: Warcraft III | Release Date: July 3, 2002 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Warcraft III introduced hero units and a compelling narrative to the real-time strategy genre, creating a lasting impact on the industry and spawning the MOBA genre.
League of Legends
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 78 | Download: League of Legends | Release Date: October 27, 2009 | Developer: Riot Games
League of Legends is a massively popular MOBA that has shaped the genre for over a decade. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its competitive gameplay and expansive universe.
Undertale
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92 | Download: Steam | Release Date: September 15, 2015 | Developer: Toby Fox
Undertale's unique gameplay mechanics and emotional storytelling created a memorable and impactful experience, challenging players' perceptions of traditional RPG mechanics.
Inscryption
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 85 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 19, 2021 | Developer: Daniel Mullins Games
Inscryption's meta-narrative and inventive gameplay blend card-based combat with exploration and puzzle-solving, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
This War of Mine
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83 | Download: Steam | Release Date: November 14, 2014 | Developer: 11 bit studios
This War of Mine offers a unique perspective on war, focusing on the struggles of civilians caught in conflict. The game's challenging moral choices and immersive atmosphere create a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
Hearthstone
Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com
Metascore: 88 | Download: Hearthstone | Release Date: March 11, 2014 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone's accessible yet strategic card battles and charming art style have made it a massively popular collectible card game.
Stardew Valley
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89 | Download: Steam | Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe
Stardew Valley's charming pixel art, relaxing gameplay, and engaging story have made it a beloved farming simulator.
The Beginner's Guide
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 76 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 1, 2015 | Developer: Everything Unlimited Ltd.
The Beginner's Guide is a unique and thought-provoking experience that uses game mechanics to explore themes of creativity, self-expression, and the human condition.
The greatest games of all time are not merely genre-defining masterpieces; they are living narratives that unite generations. While this list may evolve, each title has undeniably left its mark on gaming history – and perhaps, on your heart.
