Some games, like cherished old friends, remain with us for years; their music echoing in our memories, their moments of triumph and defeat still sending shivers down our spines. Others blaze across the gaming landscape, leaving an indelible mark and raising the bar for future titles. But how do we choose the "best"? For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood adventure; for others, a multiplayer phenomenon that connected thousands. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their legendary status confirmed by the most respected rating systems.
Explore our curated selections of games across other genres:
**Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformer**
Table of Contents ---
Half-Life 2
Image: steam.com
**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: November 16, 2004 **Developer**: Valve
Valve's legendary 2004 first-person shooter, Half-Life 2, casts you as the silent protagonist, Gordon Freeman, thrust into a world under alien occupation. Beyond the shooting, you'll solve intricate puzzles, interact with the dynamic environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. The gripping narrative and immersive atmosphere of a world fighting for survival are so realistic, you might forget you're playing a video game. Even today, the game's advanced physics engine remains impressive, and the intelligent enemies will challenge you with strategic flanking maneuvers and unexpected attacks.
Portal 2
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**Metascore**: 95 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: April 19, 2011 **Developer**: Valve
Portal 2 is a delightful blend of mind-bending puzzles and witty humor. You'll chuckle at the sarcastic quips of GLaDOS, the sinister AI that constantly mocks you, and encounter Wheatley, a robot who's both endearing and incredibly annoying. Their interactions are memorable and hilarious. Each level presents increasingly complex puzzles, introducing new mechanics like surface-altering gels and light bridges that add layers of strategic depth. The addition of multiplayer in the sequel enhances the experience.
Diablo II
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**Metascore**: 88 **Download**: Diablo II **Release Date**: June 28, 2000 **Developer**: Blizzard Entertainment
Diablo II isn't just a game; it's a defining moment in gaming history. Released in 2000 by Blizzard, it set the standard for the ARPG genre and remains a benchmark even today. The dark, gothic world is brimming with ominous secrets. You choose your hero and embark on a perilous journey, battling monsters, collecting loot, and growing stronger. The addictive gameplay loop of finding new weapons and upgrading skills ensures that “just five more minutes” turns into hours of gameplay. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless design and captivating gameplay, even with re-releases and ongoing modding support.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
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**Metascore**: 92 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: May 18, 2015 **Developer**: CD PROJEKT RED
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt immerses you in a vast and richly detailed world. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you'll wield swords and magic, embarking on quests that are more than simple fetch quests; each is a complete narrative with compelling characters and unexpected twists. The game presents numerous moral dilemmas, forcing players to grapple with difficult choices and challenging their sense of right and wrong. Critically acclaimed and award-winning, its deep story, well-developed characters, and captivating atmosphere have cemented its status as a modern classic.
Sid Meier's Civilization V
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**Metascore**: 90 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: September 21, 2010 **Developer**: Firaxis Games, Aspyr Media
Civilization V's enduring popularity is no surprise. This turn-based strategy game allows you to lead a civilization through the ages, from the Stone Age to the Space Age. You'll build cities, manage your economy, advance your culture and technology, and forge relationships (or wage war) with other civilizations. Each playthrough offers a unique experience due to the randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations, ensuring countless hours of replayability. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" added even more depth and complexity.
Fallout 3
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**Metascore**: 93 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 28, 2008 **Developer**: Bethesda Softworks
Bethesda's 2008 masterpiece, Fallout 3, remains a definitive open-world action RPG. Emerging from the confines of Vault 101, you explore the ruins of Washington D.C., encountering mutants, bandits, and enjoying unparalleled freedom of choice. The game's retro soundtrack, atmospheric ruins, and pervasive sense of radiation create a unique and memorable experience. Fallout 3 transcends its status as a cult classic; it's a timeless adventure that players revisit time and time again.
BioShock
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**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: August 21, 2007 **Developer**: 2K Boston, 2K Australia
BioShock is more than just an action shooter; it's a deeply atmospheric and thought-provoking experience. Set in a distorted 1960s underwater city, the game blends action with a compelling narrative and unsettling atmosphere. Every detail, from the environment to the cryptic inscriptions, contributes to the dark and mysterious story. The game's imagery and themes continue to spark debate and discussion among players, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
Red Dead Redemption 2
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**Metascore**: 97 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 26, 2018 **Developer**: Rockstar Games
Rockstar Games spared no expense in creating Red Dead Redemption 2. As Arthur Morgan, a hardened outlaw, you'll experience the dying days of the Wild West. The game's massive and immersive world allows for hours of exploration and discovery, independent of the main storyline. Your choices shape Arthur's character arc, determining whether you become a noble gunslinger or a notorious villain.
Dark Souls 2
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**Metascore**: 91 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: March 11, 2014 **Developer**: FromSoftware, Inc.
Dark Souls II is a challenging yet rewarding experience for those who relish difficult gameplay. The game's unforgiving difficulty is integral to its design philosophy. You'll explore the beautiful yet brutal kingdom of Drangleic, battling formidable enemies and facing the consequences of death. The souls of fallen foes become your currency, allowing you to level up and acquire items, but each death resets your progress, adding to the challenge and tension.
Doom Eternal
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**Metascore**: 88 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: March 20, 2020 **Developer**: id Software
Doom Eternal is pure, unadulterated adrenaline. Run, gun, and explode your way through hordes of demonic enemies in a relentless and exhilarating experience. The game prioritizes fast-paced, visceral combat over narrative depth, delivering a satisfying and intense gameplay loop. The absence of lengthy cutscenes keeps the action flowing, ensuring a non-stop thrill ride.
Baldur's Gate 3
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**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: August 3, 2023 **Developer**: Larian Studios
In Baldur's Gate 3, you create your character and assemble a party of companions, embarking on a classic RPG adventure filled with epic battles, magic, intrigue, and extensive dialogue. Your choices have significant consequences, shaping the narrative and leading to unique outcomes. The game's emphasis on player agency and freedom of choice has earned it widespread critical acclaim.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
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**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: November 11, 2011 **Developer**: Bethesda Game Studios
Skyrim's legendary status is well-deserved. The vast and immersive world offers endless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and discovery. The game's open-ended structure allows players to pursue the main storyline at their own pace or explore the many side quests and activities. Climb mountains, delve into dungeons, battle dragons—Skyrim is yours to conquer.
Mass Effect 2
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**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: January 26, 2010 **Developer**: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 is a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and exploration of the cosmos. The game blends thrilling action sequences with meaningful dialogue choices that impact the story and relationships with your crew. The emotional weight of the narrative and the difficult choices you'll face make for a memorable and deeply affecting experience.
Grand Theft Auto V
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**Metascore**: 97 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: September 17, 2013 **Developer**: Rockstar Games
Grand Theft Auto V offers unparalleled freedom. Whether you follow the main storyline or explore the vast and chaotic world of Los Santos, the possibilities are endless. Engage in thrilling heists, cause mayhem, or simply enjoy the freedom of exploring the city at your own pace.
Resident Evil 4
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**Metascore**: 96 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: January 11, 2005 **Developer**: Capcom
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized survival horror, blending classic elements with dynamic action and innovative gameplay mechanics. The game seamlessly integrates tense shootouts, environmental puzzles, and memorable boss encounters, creating a consistently thrilling experience.
Disco Elysium
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**Metascore**: 91 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 15, 2019 **Developer**: ZA/UM
Disco Elysium is a narrative-driven RPG that prioritizes character development and thoughtful decision-making over traditional combat. The game's unique blend of noir detective story, philosophical treatise, and artistic expression creates a deeply immersive and thought-provoking experience.
RimWorld
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**Metascore**: 87 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 17, 2018 **Developer**: Ludeon Studios
RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator that keeps players on their toes. Manage resources, deal with unexpected events, and make difficult choices to ensure the survival of your colonists. The game's dynamic events and unpredictable scenarios ensure that each playthrough is unique and engaging.
Dwarf Fortress
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**Metascore**: 93 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: December 6, 2022 **Developer**: Bay 12 Games
Dwarf Fortress is a seminal sandbox game that has influenced countless others. The game's intricate world generation, deep simulation, and unique gameplay mechanics create a rich and rewarding experience. The recent remake improved upon the original's dated visuals while retaining its core gameplay.
World of Warcraft
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**Metascore**: 93 **Download**: World of Warcraft **Release Date**: November 23, 2004 **Developer**: Blizzard Entertainment
World of Warcraft is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has captivated millions of players worldwide. Explore a vast and ever-evolving world, complete quests, battle monsters, and engage in player-versus-player (PvP) combat. The game's rich lore, engaging community, and constant updates have ensured its enduring popularity.
StarCraft
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**Metascore**: 88 **Download**: StarCraft **Release Date**: March 31, 1998 **Developer**: Blizzard Entertainment
StarCraft is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that set the standard for the genre. Its strategic depth, competitive gameplay, and enduring legacy have made it a cultural phenomenon, particularly in South Korea, where it's a major esports title.
Minecraft
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**Metascore**: 93 **Download**: Minecraft **Release Date**: November 18, 2011 **Developer**: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten
Minecraft's blocky world offers unparalleled creative freedom. Build anything you can imagine, explore vast landscapes, and battle monsters. The game's simple yet engaging mechanics and vast modding community have contributed to its immense popularity.
Spore
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**Metascore**: 84 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: September 7, 2008 **Developer**: Maxis
Spore is a unique life simulation game that allows players to create and evolve their own creatures and civilizations. The game's creative tools and dynamic gameplay have inspired countless players to create and share their own unique worlds.
Warcraft III
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**Metascore**: 92 **Download**: Warcraft III **Release Date**: July 3, 2002 **Developer**: Blizzard Entertainment
Warcraft III is a real-time strategy game that introduced hero units to the genre, adding a new layer of strategic depth. Its engaging campaign, diverse factions, and influential map editor have solidified its place in gaming history.
League of Legends
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**Metascore**: 78 **Download**: League of Legends **Release Date**: October 27, 2009 **Developer**: Riot Games
League of Legends is a massively popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its engaging gameplay, diverse roster of characters, and the rich lore explored in its spin-off media, such as the critically acclaimed animated series Arcane.
Undertale
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**Metascore**: 92 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: September 15, 2015 **Developer**: Toby Fox
Undertale is a role-playing game that challenges players' perceptions of traditional RPG mechanics and storytelling. Its unique gameplay, memorable characters, and captivating soundtrack have earned it a devoted following.
Inscryption
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**Metascore**: 85 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 19, 2021 **Developer**: Daniel Mullins Games
Inscryption is a unique and meta card-based roguelike that constantly subverts expectations. Its blend of card game mechanics, puzzle-solving, and unsettling atmosphere creates a truly memorable and unsettling experience.
This War of Mine
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**Metascore**: 83 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: November 14, 2014 **Developer**: 11 bit studios
This War of Mine offers a stark and realistic portrayal of civilian life during wartime. Players must manage resources, make difficult moral choices, and strive to survive in a world ravaged by conflict.
Hearthstone
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**Metascore**: 88 **Download**: Hearthstone **Release Date**: March 11, 2014 **Developer**: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone is a popular collectible card game based on the Warcraft universe. Its accessible gameplay, engaging mechanics, and charming art style have made it a hit with players worldwide.
Stardew Valley
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**Metascore**: 89 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: February 26, 2016 **Developer**: ConcernedApe
Stardew Valley is a charming farming simulator that offers a relaxing and rewarding experience. Its simple yet engaging gameplay, cozy atmosphere, and endearing characters have earned it a devoted following.
The Beginner's Guide
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**Metascore**: 76 **Download**: Steam **Release Date**: October 1, 2015 **Developer**: Everything Unlimited Ltd.
The Beginner's Guide is a unique and thought-provoking game that explores themes of creativity, artistry, and the human condition. Its simple mechanics and profound message create a deeply affecting experience.
The greatest games of all time are more than just technical achievements; they are living narratives that connect generations. While this list may evolve over time, each game has left an enduring mark on the gaming industry and the hearts of countless players.
