Some games, like old friends, stay 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, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood quest, while for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that brought together thousands of people. We've gathered the best games of all time, their status confirmed by the most authoritative ratings.
We also recommend checking out 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
Half-Life 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 16, 2004
Developer: Valve
Half-Life 2, released in 2004 by Valve, is a legendary first-person shooter. As Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist, you find yourself in a world occupied by an alien empire. The game goes beyond shooting, requiring puzzle-solving, environmental interaction, and the use of the iconic gravity gun. The immersive story captivates from the start, creating a vivid atmosphere of humanity fighting for survival. The physics, advanced for its time, still hold up today, and the intelligent enemy AI adds depth to the gameplay.
Portal 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 95
Download: Steam
Release Date: April 19, 2011
Developer: Valve
Portal 2 is a delight for both the mind and sense of humor. The sarcastic AI, GLaDOS, and the endearing yet irritating robot, Wheatley, deliver memorable dialogue that sticks with you. The game's puzzles escalate in complexity, introducing innovative mechanics like gels and light bridges. The multiplayer mode, introduced in this sequel, adds another layer of enjoyment.
Diablo II
Image: polygon.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Diablo II
Release Date: June 28, 2000
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Released in 2000 by Blizzard, Diablo II is not just a game but an era in the ARPG genre. Set in a dark, gothic world, you choose a hero to embark on a journey filled with dangers, fighting monsters and collecting loot. Its addictive gameplay and the thrill of every new sword or skill upgrade keep players hooked. Even after years, Diablo II remains relevant through re-releases and mods, uniting 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 offers an expansive universe filled with detailed quests that tell full stories. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you navigate moral dilemmas and a richly crafted world. Its deep narrative, well-developed characters, and immersive atmosphere have earned it cult status and numerous awards, cementing its place as a masterpiece.
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 beloved strategy game, allowing players to lead a civilization through the ages. From building cities to advancing science and engaging with other civilizations, each playthrough offers a unique experience. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" add depth with new mechanics, making it easy to lose hundreds of hours in its world.
Fallout 3
Image: newgamenetwork.com
Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 28, 2008
Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Released in 2008 by Bethesda, Fallout 3 is an iconic Action/RPG with a vast open world. As a Vault 101 resident, you step into the post-apocalyptic ruins of Washington, facing mutants and bandits. The game's atmosphere, from retro radio hits to the rusted ruins, creates a compelling experience. It's a cult classic that feels like an old friend you want to revisit.
BioShock
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: August 21, 2007
Developer: 2K Boston, 2K Australia
BioShock, though initially appearing as just another action shooter, delves much deeper. Set in a dystopian 1960s underwater city, the game's environment tells a dark and mysterious story. Its intricate narrative and atmospheric design have sparked endless discussions, leaving a lasting impact on players.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 26, 2018
Developer: Rockstar Games
In Red Dead Redemption 2, you embody Arthur Morgan, a hardened outlaw in the fading era of cowboys. The game's expansive, living world lets you immerse yourself in its setting, making choices that ripple through the narrative. Its attention to detail and freedom to explore make it a beloved title among players.
Dark Souls 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
Dark Souls 2, released in 2014, challenges players with its notorious difficulty. Set in the beautiful yet merciless kingdom of Drangleic, the game's philosophy revolves around perseverance and learning from failure. The souls of defeated enemies serve as currency, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay.
Doom Eternal
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Developer: id Software
Doom Eternal is all about relentless action and adrenaline. With no time to breathe, players are thrown into a world of carnage, battling hellish creatures with a vast arsenal of weapons. Its focus on pure gameplay and intensity makes it a standout title.
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 your choices shape the story. From creating your character to gathering a party of unique companions, the game offers a rich narrative filled with intrigue and magic. Its depth and freedom have earned it widespread acclaim from both players and critics.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 11, 2011
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Skyrim is a legendary game for its endless storytelling potential. With a vast open world to explore, from climbing mountains to fighting dragons, the game lets you decide your path. Its freedom and depth have made it a timeless classic.
Mass Effect 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 26, 2010
Developer: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 is a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic adventure. With thrilling shootouts and dialogues that impact entire planets, the game offers tough choices and emotional depth. Its narrative and character development have made it a fan favorite.
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 in the virtual city of Los Santos. Whether following the plot or causing mayhem, the game lets you do it all. Its open-world design and dynamic gameplay have cemented its status as a landmark title.
Resident Evil 4
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: January 11, 2005
Developer: Capcom
Resident Evil 4, released in 2005, revolutionized the survival horror genre with its dynamic gameplay. From tense shootouts to puzzles and cinematic sequences, the game keeps you on the edge of your seat. Its influence on the industry continues to be felt today.
Disco Elysium
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 15, 2019
Developer: ZA/UM
Disco Elysium is a unique experience where you play a detective in Revachol, navigating a world of philosophical questions and personal struggles. Its art style, narrative depth, and unconventional gameplay make it a standout title in the RPG genre.
RimWorld
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 87
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 17, 2018
Developer: Ludeon Studios
RimWorld is a story generator where you manage a colony facing constant challenges. From putting out fires to making tough decisions about survival, the game keeps you on your toes. Its replayability and depth make it a favorite among strategy fans.
Dwarf Fortress
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 93
Download: Steam
Release Date: December 6, 2022
Developer: Bay 12 Games
Dwarf Fortress, the grandfather of sandbox games, creates entire worlds with rich histories and legends. Its 2022 remake improved its visuals while maintaining its deep simulation. The game's complexity and creativity have inspired countless other titles.
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 endless possibilities, from exploring beautiful landscapes to engaging in epic raids. Its evolving world, rich lore, and vibrant community have made it a cultural phenomenon. 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
Released in 1998, StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy games. Its simple premise of building bases and outmaneuvering opponents has turned it into a cultural phenomenon, especially in South Korea, where it became a major esport.
Minecraft
Image: minecraft.net
Metascore: 93
Download: Minecraft
Release Date: November 18, 2011
Developer: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten
Minecraft's world of cubes offers limitless creativity. Whether building, exploring, or surviving, the game's freedom and community-driven mods keep players engaged. Its simple yet profound gameplay has made it a global sensation.
Spore
Image: axios.com
Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 7, 2008
Developer: Maxis
Spore is an ambitious experiment that lets you create and evolve creatures across different stages. Its editors allow for endless creativity, and its impact on the gaming world has been significant, inspiring players to explore and create.
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 a new layer of strategy and storytelling. Its map editor spawned the MOBA genre, and its narrative has left a 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 has been a dominant force in the MOBA genre, creating its own universe and characters. Despite recent challenges, its impact on gaming and the success of Arcane demonstrate its lasting influence.
Undertale
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 15, 2015
Developer: Toby Fox
Undertale challenges players with its emotional narrative and innovative mechanics. Your choices affect the story, making it a deeply personal experience. Its memorable characters and captivating soundtrack have made it a beloved indie game.
Inscryption
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 19, 2021
Developer: Daniel Mullins Games
Inscryption blends card game mechanics with puzzle-solving and exploration. Its unconventional rules and mysterious narrative keep players engaged, offering surprises at every turn. The game's depth and creativity have earned it widespread acclaim.
This War of Mine
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 14, 2014
Developer: 11 bit studios
This War of Mine puts you in the shoes of civilians surviving in a war-torn city. Its focus on survival and moral decisions offers a poignant experience, challenging players to make tough choices in a realistic setting.
Hearthstone
Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Hearthstone
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone made collectible card games accessible and engaging. Its Warcraft-themed visuals and music, along with its strategic depth, have attracted millions of players worldwide.
Stardew Valley
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release Date: February 26, 2016
Developer: ConcernedApe
Stardew Valley offers a charming farming experience with endless possibilities. Created by Eric Barone, the game's pixel art and cozy atmosphere make it a beloved title among players seeking relaxation and adventure.
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 an artistic exploration of creativity and burnout. Through a series of mini-games, it invites reflection on the nature of game development and personal experiences. Its unique approach makes it a thought-provoking piece in the gaming world.
The greatest games of all time are not just masterpieces of their genres; they are living stories that unite generations. The list may change over time, but each of these works has already carved its name into the history of the industry—and perhaps into your heart.