Some games, like cherished old 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 are like brilliant flashes, momentarily shaking the industry and setting new standards. 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 brought thousands together. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their status confirmed by the most reputable ratings.
We also recommend exploring our curated selections of games by genre:
**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 master the iconic gravity gun. The narrative is gripping from the start, and the atmosphere of humanity's struggle for survival feels remarkably real. Even today, the game's advanced physics engine remains impressive, and the intelligent enemies will keep you on your toes.
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 a constant stream of mocking commentary, while Wheatley, a charming yet incredibly annoying robot, adds to the comedic charm. Their interactions are memorable and hilarious. Each level introduces increasingly complex puzzles and new mechanics, such as gels that alter surface properties and light bridges that add strategic layers. The addition of multiplayer in the sequel 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 landmark achievement in the ARPG genre. Blizzard's dark, gothic world is brimming with ominous secrets. You choose a hero and embark on a perilous journey, battling monsters, collecting loot, and steadily growing stronger. The addictive gameplay loop—the thrill of each new weapon and skill upgrade—keeps players hooked for hours. Even after decades, Diablo II remains remarkably relevant, with re-releases, ongoing modding, and a dedicated fanbase.
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 you in a richly detailed and expansive world. Playing as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you'll engage in quests that go far beyond simple fetch-quests; each is a fully realized story with compelling characters and unexpected twists. The game presents numerous moral dilemmas, forcing you to confront difficult choices and question your own sense of right and wrong. Critically acclaimed and award-winning, it's considered a masterpiece of storytelling and atmosphere.
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 is a testament to its compelling gameplay. Lead your civilization through the ages, from the Stone Age to the Space Age, managing cities, advancing science and culture, and forging alliances or engaging in warfare with your neighbors. Each playthrough is unique, offering countless hours of replayability thanks to randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" added significant depth and complexity.
Fallout 3
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Metascore: 93 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 28, 2008 | Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Bethesda's Fallout 3 (2008) remains a standout open-world Action/RPG. Emerging from Vault 101, you explore the ruined landscape of Washington D.C., encountering mutants, bandits, and facing countless choices. The game's retro soundtrack, atmospheric ruins, and pervasive sense of radiation create a uniquely immersive experience. Fallout 3's enduring appeal stems from its captivating atmosphere and the freedom it offers players.
BioShock
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: August 21, 2007 | Developer: 2K Boston, 2K Australia
BioShock transcends the typical action shooter. Set in a distorted 1960s underwater city, the game's unsettling atmosphere and cryptic storytelling create a lasting impact. Every detail, from the environment to the inscriptions on the walls, contributes to a dark and mysterious narrative. The game's imagery and themes continue to spark discussion and debate 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 breathtakingly immersive experience 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 vast and detailed world allows for countless hours of exploration and interaction, shaping your character's path and determining your legacy.
Dark Souls 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91 | Download: Steam | Release Date: March 11, 2014 | Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.
Dark Souls II (2014) is a challenging but rewarding experience. The unforgiving difficulty is integral to its design, forcing players to learn from their mistakes and adapt their strategies. Explore the beautiful yet brutal kingdom of Drangleic, where death is a constant threat, and the souls of fallen enemies become your currency.
Doom Eternal
Image: steam.com
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. The focus is on intense, fast-paced combat and a massive arsenal of weaponry. The game eschews lengthy cutscenes, delivering non-stop action and a visceral gaming 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 a sprawling RPG where your choices truly matter. Create your character, assemble your party, and embark on an epic adventure filled with dragons, magic, and intricate storytelling. The game's branching narrative and emphasis on player agency create a deeply immersive and replayable experience.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: November 11, 2011 | Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Skyrim's legendary status is well-deserved. Explore a vast and ever-changing world, filled with hidden secrets and countless adventures. The game offers unparalleled freedom, allowing players to forge their own paths and determine their own destinies.
Mass Effect 2
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: January 26, 2010 | Developer: BioWare
Mass Effect 2 is a deeply emotional and engaging RPG. Forge alliances, confront betrayals, and make difficult choices that shape the fate of entire planets. The game's compelling characters and narrative create a lasting impact on players.
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 chaos. Explore the sprawling city of Los Santos, engaging in heists, causing mayhem, or simply enjoying the game's vast open world.
Resident Evil 4
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: January 11, 2005 | Developer: Capcom
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized survival horror, blending tense atmosphere with dynamic action sequences. The game's memorable bosses and constant shifts between combat and puzzle-solving create a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Disco Elysium
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM
Disco Elysium is a unique RPG that prioritizes narrative and character development over traditional gameplay mechanics. The game's philosophical depth and stunning visuals create a truly memorable experience.
RimWorld
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 87 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 17, 2018 | Developer: Ludeon Studios
RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator that throws unexpected events at the player constantly. Manage resources, deal with crises, and make difficult choices to ensure your colony's survival.
Dwarf Fortress
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 93 | Download: Steam | Release Date: December 6, 2022 | Developer: Bay 12 Games
Dwarf Fortress is a complex and highly detailed simulation game where you manage a colony of dwarves. 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 is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has captivated millions of players worldwide. Explore a vast and ever-expanding world, engage in epic quests, and connect with a large and active community.
StarCraft
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Metascore: 88 | Download: StarCraft | Release Date: March 31, 1998 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy (RTS) games. Its strategic depth and competitive gameplay have made it a global phenomenon, particularly in South Korea, where it's a major esport.
Minecraft
Image: minecraft.net
Metascore: 93 | Download: Minecraft | Release Date: November 18, 2011 | Developer: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten
Minecraft's simple yet endlessly creative gameplay has made it a global sensation. Build anything you can imagine, explore vast landscapes, and engage in thrilling adventures.
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, from microscopic organisms to advanced civilizations.
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 strategic depth and replayability.
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 hugely popular MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game with a vast player base and a rich lore.
Undertale
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92 | Download: Steam | Release Date: September 15, 2015 | Developer: Toby Fox
Undertale is a unique RPG that challenges players' perceptions of violence and morality.
Inscryption
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 85 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 19, 2021 | Developer: Daniel Mullins Games
Inscryption is a meta-card game that blends roguelike elements with unsettling narrative and unexpected twists.
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 stark and realistic portrayal of civilian life during wartime.
Hearthstone
Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com
Metascore: 88 | Download: Hearthstone | Release Date: March 11, 2014 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone is a popular collectible card game based on the Warcraft universe.
Stardew Valley
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89 | Download: Steam | Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe
Stardew Valley is a charming farming simulator with a focus on community building and relaxation.
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 thought-provoking game that explores themes of creativity and self-discovery.
The greatest games of all time are more than just genre-defining masterpieces; they are living narratives that connect generations. While this list may evolve, each game has undeniably etched its name into gaming history—and perhaps into your heart.
