Some games, like old friends, remain with us for years: their music becomes etched in our memory, and moments of triumph or defeat still give us chills. Others are like bright flashes that shook the industry and set new standards.
Choosing the "best" game can be subjective. For some, it might be a nostalgic childhood quest, while for others, it could be a multiplayer masterpiece that brought together thousands of people. We've gathered a list of the best games of all time, their status confirmed by the most authoritative ratings.
We also recommend exploring our selections of games by other genres:
Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers
Table of Content ---
- 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
0 0 Comment on this Half-Life 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 16, 2004
Developer: Valve
Half-Life 2 is a legendary first-person shooter released in 2004 by Valve. You play as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist thrust into a world occupied by an alien empire. The game demands more than just shooting; you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and utilize the iconic gravity gun.
The story captivates from the outset, immersing you in an atmosphere where humanity fights for survival that feels palpably real. The game's physics were groundbreaking at the time and remain impressive today. Enemies aren't just mindless targets; they strategize, flank, and surprise you, adding depth to the gameplay.
Portal 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 95
Download: Steam
Release Date: April 19, 2011
Developer: Valve
Portal 2 is a delightful challenge for both the mind and sense of humor. You'll chuckle at GLaDOS's sarcastic quips and meet Wheatley, a robot who is both endearing and frustrating. Their interactions are memorable and will linger with you long after playing.
As the levels progress, puzzles become increasingly complex, introducing new mechanics like surface-altering gels and light bridges. Don't miss out on the multiplayer mode, which adds a collaborative twist to the experience.
Diablo II
Image: polygon.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Diablo II
Release Date: June 28, 2000
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Diablo II isn't just a game; it's an era. Released in 2000 by Blizzard, it became an instant hit and remains a benchmark in the ARPG genre. Set in a dark, gothic world filled with ominous secrets, you choose a hero to embark on a journey fraught with dangers. The thrill of fighting monsters, collecting loot, and growing stronger is addictive.
Every new item or skill upgrade feels like a victory, tempting you to play "just five more minutes." Even years later, Diablo II remains relevant with re-releases, mods, and a dedicated fanbase. It's not just a game; it's a saga that has united millions of players worldwide.
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 is an expansive universe you'll want to dive into. Playing as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you navigate a vast, meticulously crafted world. Each quest is more than a simple task; it's a rich story with compelling characters and unexpected twists.
Moral dilemmas abound, challenging you to weigh right and wrong. The Witcher 3 has earned its status as a cult classic, praised for its deep narrative, well-developed characters, and immersive atmosphere. It's a masterpiece that has garnered countless awards.
Sid Meier's Civilization V
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 21, 2010
Developer: Firaxis Games, Aspyr Media
Civilization V remains a top strategy game that players continually return to. You lead a civilization from the Stone Age to the Space Age, managing cities, advancing technology, and deciding your interactions with other civilizations—whether through diplomacy, trade, or war.
Each game offers a new narrative on a randomly generated map. With various civilizations and strategies to explore, every playthrough is unique. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" add depth with new mechanics such as religion, espionage, and international trade, ensuring hundreds of hours of engaging gameplay.
Fallout 3
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Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 28, 2008
Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Released in 2008, Fallout 3 redefined the Action/RPG genre with its expansive open world. As a Vault 101 resident, you venture into the post-apocalyptic ruins of Washington, encountering mutants, bandits, and making choices that shape your journey.
The game's atmosphere is unforgettable, with retro music on the radio, rusted ruins telling silent stories, and the ever-present hint of radiation. Fallout 3 is more than a cult classic; it's an old friend you'll want to revisit time and again.
BioShock
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 21, 2007
Developer: 2K Boston, 2K Australia
At first glance, BioShock might seem like just another shooter, but it delves much deeper. The game transports you to a distorted 1960s world, where jazz echoes from seashell-shaped speakers, propaganda posters promise "great ideals," and something ominous lurks in the shadows.
Every detail, from doors to wall inscriptions, tells a dark and mysterious story. BioShock's imagery leaves a lasting impression, sparking endless discussions on forums, much like the iconic Twin Peaks.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 26, 2018
Developer: Rockstar Games
In Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar Games created an immersive experience. Playing as Arthur Morgan, an outlaw from the Van der Linde gang, you feel the dust of the prairies and witness the decline of the cowboy era. It's not about saving the world but surviving in a chaotic one while holding onto your humanity.
The vast, living world allows you to forget the plot and simply exist, which is why players love RDR. Every action has consequences, shaping whether you become a noble gunslinger or a notorious villain.
Dark Souls 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
Dark Souls II is for those who dream of being a hero who constantly faces defeat but never gives up. Released in 2014, it challenges players with its notorious difficulty, which is not just a feature but a philosophy.
You navigate Drangleic, a beautiful yet unforgiving kingdom where death is a constant threat. The souls of defeated enemies serve as currency for leveling up or buying potions, but losing them upon death adds tension to every encounter.
Doom Eternal
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Developer: id Software
Doom Eternal is all about adrenaline-fueled action. Run, shoot, jump, and explode—repeat. There's no time to catch your breath; it's just you, the demons, and brilliantly designed gameplay that keeps your heart racing.
The game doesn't aim for deep storytelling or survival elements; it throws you into relentless carnage. It's pure, unadulterated action that delivers an exhilarating experience.
Baldur's Gate 3
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 3, 2023
Developer: Larian Studios
Baldur's Gate 3 is an RPG where you craft your character and assemble a party of unique companions to face epic dragons, magic, and intrigue. Every decision, from a failed joke to a betrayal, alters the story.
It's not about killing rats; it's a true role-playing experience where your choices matter. Both players and critics adore it for its lack of "right" answers and the feeling of shaping the narrative yourself.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 11, 2011
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Skyrim is legendary for a reason; it always has another story to tell. No matter how much you explore, there's always another hidden corner waiting to be discovered.
It's an incredible adventure where you decide when it ends. Whether you climb mountains, delve into dungeons, or battle dragons, Skyrim is yours to explore and conquer.
Mass Effect 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 26, 2010
Developer: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 is more than an RPG; it's a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic surprises. Ask any fan, and they'll recall moments of forgetting to upgrade the ship or emotional reactions to character deaths.
The game offers thrilling shootouts, dialogues that impact entire planets, and tough choices—risk your life for a distant colony or start a romance with an alien? It's all about the journey.
Grand Theft Auto V
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Developer: Rockstar Games
Grand Theft Auto V lets you cause mayhem in virtual Los Santos, offering unparalleled freedom. Whether you follow the plot or ditch it to fly with a jetpack, race against cops, or steal cars, the choice is yours.
Freedom is the essence of GTA V, making it an unforgettable experience where you can be anything you want.
Resident Evil 4
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 11, 2005
Developer: Capcom
Resident Evil 4 broke industry molds upon its 2005 release and remains influential today. It refined survival horror by adding dynamic action, memorable shootouts, and iconic bosses.
The game keeps you on edge with its eerie atmosphere, adrenaline-pumping action, and cinematic storytelling. It's a classic that continues to captivate players.
Disco Elysium
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 15, 2019
Developer: ZA/UM
Disco Elysium isn't about victories; it's about falling, rising, and questioning. Set in Revachol, you play as a detective solving a murder while confronting personal demons.
The game blends noir detective stories, philosophical musings, and psychedelic art, creating a unique experience. Every frame reveals new insights, making it a thought-provoking journey.
RimWorld
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 17, 2018
Developer: Ludeon Studios
RimWorld keeps you on your toes. Building a base is just the beginning; you'll also manage fires, treat wounds, and make tough survival decisions.
It's a story generator where you'll laugh at absurd situations or ponder over ethical dilemmas. The game's replayability is endless, offering new challenges and surprises each time.
Dwarf Fortress
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 6, 2022
Developer: Bay 12 Games
Dwarf Fortress is the pioneer of sandbox games, influencing titles like Minecraft and RimWorld. Its 2022 remake improved its visuals, but the essence remains—creating entire worlds with rich histories and legends.
There's no set goal; your task is to survive, build, and witness the epic tales of your dwarves. It's a game that invites endless creativity and exploration.
World of Warcraft
Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com
Metascore: 93
Download: World of Warcraft
Release Date: November 23, 2004
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
World of Warcraft offers limitless possibilities. Whether you're exploring, completing quests, battling monsters, or engaging in PvP, there's something for everyone.
Its enduring appeal lies in its evolving world, the vibrant community, and the rich lore of Azeroth. Blizzard's continuous updates keep the game fresh and engaging.
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 upon its 1998 release. It's a game of planning, resource management, and quick thinking, akin to chess but with spaceships and alien swarms.
It became a cultural phenomenon, particularly in South Korea, where it evolved into a national esport. StarCraft's impact on gaming culture is undeniable.
Minecraft
Image: minecraft.net
Metascore: 93
Download: Minecraft
Release Date: November 18, 2011
Developer: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten
Minecraft's world of cubes offers endless creativity. Whether you're building, exploring, or surviving, the game's freedom is its biggest draw.
The community's mods add new dimensions to the game, ensuring a constantly evolving experience. Minecraft's simplicity and versatility make it a timeless classic.
Spore
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Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 7, 2008
Developer: Maxis
Spore is an ambitious experiment that succeeded in many ways. Its editors allow you to create unique creatures and spaceships, offering endless possibilities.
The game's progression through different stages is unique, with every decision impacting the world around you. Despite some simplicity, Spore's scale and creativity are unmatched.
Warcraft III
Image: warcraft3.blizzard.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Warcraft III
Release Date: July 3, 2002
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Warcraft III introduced heroes to the RTS genre, adding depth and strategy. With four distinct races and a compelling story, it remains a beloved classic.
The map editor spawned the MOBA genre with Dota, showcasing the game's lasting impact on gaming culture.
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 global phenomenon that has defined the MOBA genre for over a decade. Its characters and universe are uniquely crafted, and continuous updates keep the game fresh.
Despite recent challenges, loyal fans remain hopeful for its revival. The game's influence extends to the acclaimed series Arcane.
Undertale
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 15, 2015
Developer: Toby Fox
Undertale took the gaming world by storm in 2015 with its emotional depth and unique mechanics. Your choices genuinely affect the narrative, challenging you to consider the impact of violence.
The game's memorable characters, captivating soundtrack, and thought-provoking story make it a standout title.
Inscryption
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 19, 2021
Developer: Daniel Mullins Games
Inscryption starts as a card roguelike but evolves into much more. Set in a dark cabin, you play against Leshy, making sacrifices to summon stronger cards.
The game's puzzles, secrets, and unconventional rules keep you engaged. It's a mind-bending experience that continually surprises and challenges your perceptions.
This War of Mine
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 14, 2014
Developer: 11 bit studios
This War of Mine places you in the shoes of ordinary people surviving in a war-torn city. By day, you manage resources and repair your shelter; by night, you scavenge for supplies.
The game's moral choices are harrowing, forcing you to weigh survival against ethics. It's a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Hearthstone
Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Hearthstone
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone made card battles accessible and engaging for a wide audience. Set in the Warcraft universe, it combines simple mechanics with a charming aesthetic.
The game's visual design and music add to its appeal, making it a beloved title among card game enthusiasts.
Stardew Valley
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release Date: February 26, 2016
Developer: ConcernedApe
Stardew Valley offers simple joys like farming and befriending neighbors. Inheriting an old farm, you decide how to spend your days—whether growing crops, raising animals, or exploring mines.
Created by Eric Barone, the game's pixel art, cozy music, and subtle humor create a warm, inviting atmosphere that keeps players coming back.
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 more art than game, inviting reflection on creativity and burnout. Through a series of mini-games created by the fictional Coda, you explore themes that resonate deeply.
It's an experience that encourages introspection rather than action, making it a unique addition to any gamer's library.
The greatest games of all time aren't just genre masterpieces; they're living stories that unite generations. While the list may evolve, each of these titles has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry—and perhaps on your heart.
