When you think of the best games in history, it’s clear that some titles transcend the era they were created in. These timeless games are more than just entertainment—they are art, offering innovative gameplay, compelling stories, and immersive worlds. They shape the industry and influence future generations of games. From iconic franchises to independent masterpieces, certain titles have earned their place in the annals of gaming history.
One such game is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998), a title that set new standards for adventure games. As the story of Link, the Hero of Time, unfolds through the fantastical world of Hyrule, players are drawn into a journey that blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat in an open world. The game’s combination of real-time action, story-driven missions, and a memorable soundtrack set a template for countless action-adventure games. Ocarina of Time was revolutionary, with its vast world and intricate design paving the way for future open-world games.
Another classic that comes to mind is Super Mario 64 (1996), a game that changed the way we view 3D platformers. Released as a launch title for the Nintendo 64, Super Mario 64 broke new ground in gaming by introducing fully three-dimensional worlds. The game was a technical marvel, allowing Mario to leap, dive, and explore expansive environments, something that had never been seen in platformers before. Its creative level design and responsive controls were groundbreaking, making it one of the most influential games of its generation.
In more recent years, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) has solidified its place among the best. This open-world role-playing game from CD Projekt Red set new benchmarks for storytelling, character development, and world-building. Players control Geralt of Rivia, ahha4d a monster hunter, as he navigates a war-torn world filled with moral ambiguity, mythical creatures, and deeply personal quests. The game’s mature narrative, rich lore, and sprawling world have made it a modern classic, beloved by both critics and players alike.
Similarly, Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) by Rockstar Games continues the tradition of epic open-world storytelling. Set in the dying days of the Wild West, the game follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as he grapples with loyalty, survival, and morality. The game’s world is an astonishing feat of design, filled with beautiful landscapes, detailed towns, and a complex ecosystem of animals and NPCs. With its cinematic presentation, nuanced characters, and immersive gameplay, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a must-play for any serious gamer.
The Final Fantasy series has also given rise to some of the best games in the RPG genre. Final Fantasy VII (1997) is often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, and for good reason. The game’s narrative, which follows Cloud Strife and his allies as they battle the evil Shinra corporation, is a powerful blend of science fiction, fantasy, and environmentalism. The turn-based battle system, combined with the innovative Materia system, allows for tactical depth while still being accessible to newcomers. Final Fantasy VII was one of the first RPGs to achieve mainstream success, and it remains a staple in the genre.
Then, there’s Dark Souls (2011), a game that redefined how difficulty is approached in video games. FromSoftware’s Dark Souls is famous for its punishing difficulty, intricate level design, and cryptic storytelling. Players are thrown into a dark, unforgiving world filled with monsters, traps, and challenging boss fights. The satisfaction of overcoming obstacles is immense, and the game’s hidden narrative encourages players to explore and uncover its many secrets. Dark Souls is not just a game; it’s a cultural touchstone, influencing a host of modern titles that embrace similar challenge-based gameplay.
Another iconic entry on the list is Half-Life 2 (2004), a game that redefined the first-person shooter genre. Known for its groundbreaking physics engine, Half-Life 2 offers a cinematic experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The game’s narrative is told without cutscenes, relying instead on in-game events to propel the story forward. The innovative gravity gun, which allows players to manipulate objects in the environment, was a first for its time, making Half-Life 2 a truly memorable experience.
In terms of storytelling and narrative, The Last of Us (2013) by Naughty Dog stands out as one of the most emotionally impactful games ever created. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players control Joel, a grizzled survivor, and Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to saving humanity. The game masterfully blends combat, exploration, and character-driven storytelling, taking players on a journey of survival, loss, and redemption. The deep relationship between Joel and Ellie anchors the narrative, making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in gaming.
Lastly, Minecraft (2011) is another modern classic that has had an enormous influence on the gaming world. Its simple block-based graphics belied the depth of gameplay and creativity that players could experience. Minecraft is not just about surviving and building in a randomly generated world—it’s about shaping that world and creating something entirely unique. The game’s sandbox nature and multiplayer options make it a platform for players to express their creativity and collaborate with others.
These games have proven that video games are more than just entertainment—they are cultural milestones that continue to influence the industry. Whether through groundbreaking technology, narrative innovation, or a fresh take on gameplay mechanics, these games have become timeless classics that will be remembered for years to come. The best games are those that change the way we think about the medium, pushing boundaries and creating experiences that resonate long after the screen fades to black.
