A Timeless Collection: The Greatest Video Games Ever Made

Some games, like cherished friends, remain with us for years; their music ingrained in our memories, their moments of triumph and defeat still sending shivers down our spines. Others are like brilliant flashes, 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, a multiplayer masterpiece that connected thousands. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their status validated by the most respected ratings.

Explore our curated genre-specific game lists:

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

Valve's legendary 2004 first-person shooter puts you in the boots of Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist navigating an alien-occupied world. Beyond shooting, you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and master the iconic gravity gun. The immersive narrative and groundbreaking physics engine, even by today's standards, create a truly unforgettable experience. Intelligent enemies add a layer of strategic depth, forcing players to think beyond simple run-and-gun tactics.

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 witty humor. The sarcastic quips of GLaDOS, the malevolent AI, and the endearingly annoying Wheatley provide memorable dialogue and interactions. The escalating puzzle complexity and introduction of new mechanics, like surface-altering gels and light bridges, keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. The addition of multiplayer in the sequel enhances the experience further.

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. Blizzard's 2000 release set the benchmark for ARPGs, captivating players with its dark gothic world and addictive gameplay loop. The constant pursuit of loot and character progression keeps players hooked, with each new item and skill upgrade fueling the desire to "just play five more minutes." Its enduring popularity, fueled by re-releases and modding communities, solidifies its place as a timeless classic.

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 is a sprawling, immersive universe begging to be explored. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you'll navigate a vast and detailed world, tackling quests that are more than simple fetch-and-kill missions. Complex moral dilemmas and compelling characters enrich the narrative, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Critically acclaimed for its storytelling, characters, and atmosphere, it's a masterpiece deserving of its numerous awards.

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 stems from its ability to provide a unique and engaging experience with each playthrough. Lead your civilization through the ages, from primitive beginnings to spacefaring dominance, managing cities, advancing technology, and navigating international relations. The randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations ensure endless replayability, with expansions adding even more depth and strategic options.

Fallout 3

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Metascore: 93 Download: Steam Release Date: October 28, 2008 Developer: Bethesda Softworks

Bethesda's 2008 open-world Action/RPG remains a benchmark in the genre. Emerging from Vault 101 into the post-apocalyptic ruins of Washington D.C., you'll encounter mutants, bandits, and a world brimming with freedom of choice. The game's evocative atmosphere, retro soundtrack, and sense of freedom create a lasting impact, making it a classic many players revisit time and again.

BioShock

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 96 Download: Steam Release Date: August 21, 2007 Developer: 2K Boston, 2K Australia

BioShock transcends the typical action shooter. Its 1960s setting, filtered through a distorted lens, creates a haunting atmosphere. Every detail, from the environment to the cryptic inscriptions, contributes to a dark and mysterious narrative. The game's enduring legacy is evident in the ongoing discussions and interpretations surrounding its themes and imagery.

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 member of the Van der Linde gang, you'll experience the dying days of the Wild West. The vast and immersive world allows for countless hours of exploration and interaction, shaping your character's path and leaving a lasting impact on the game's narrative.

Dark Souls 2

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Metascore: 91 Download: Steam Release Date: March 11, 2014 Developer: FromSoftware, Inc.

Dark Souls II challenges players with its unforgiving difficulty, a core element of its design philosophy. Exploring the beautiful yet brutal kingdom of Drangleic, you'll face constant peril, with death serving as a harsh but integral part of the gameplay loop. The game's rewarding yet challenging nature has cemented its place as a cult classic.

Doom Eternal

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Metascore: 88 Download: Steam Release Date: March 20, 2020 Developer: id Software

Doom Eternal is pure, unadulterated adrenaline. Fast-paced combat, a massive arsenal of weapons, and a relentless onslaught of demonic enemies create a visceral and exhilarating experience. The game's focus on intense action and flawlessly designed gameplay makes it a standout title in the shooter genre.

Baldur's Gate 3

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Metascore: 96 Download: Steam Release Date: August 3, 2023 Developer: Larian Studios

Baldur's Gate 3 offers a deep and engaging RPG experience with a high degree of player agency. Create your character, assemble your party, and embark on an epic adventure filled with dragons, magic, intrigue, and impactful dialogue choices. The game's emphasis on player choice and consequence creates a truly personalized narrative.

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. Its vast open world, filled with endless possibilities, allows for countless hours of exploration and adventure. The freedom to pursue the main storyline at your own pace, or to completely ignore it in favor of side quests and exploration, makes it a truly unique and replayable experience.

Mass Effect 2

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Metascore: 96 Download: Steam Release Date: January 26, 2010 Developer: BioWare

Mass Effect 2 is more than just an RPG; it's a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic exploration. The game's impactful dialogue choices, thrilling combat, and emotionally resonant narrative create a deeply personal and memorable experience.

Grand Theft Auto V

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Metascore: 97 Download: Steam Release Date: September 17, 2013 Developer: Rockstar Games

GTA V's unparalleled freedom is its greatest strength. Whether you follow the main storyline or create your own chaos in Los Santos, the game provides a sandbox of limitless possibilities. The sheer breadth of activities and the freedom to choose your own path make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Resident Evil 4

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Metascore: 96 Download: Steam Release Date: January 11, 2005 Developer: Capcom

Resident Evil 4 redefined survival horror, blending classic elements with dynamic action and innovative gameplay mechanics. Its intense combat, memorable boss encounters, and gripping narrative create a truly unforgettable experience that continues to influence the genre.

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 introspection and impactful dialogue choices over traditional combat. Its unique blend of noir detective story, philosophical treatise, and striking visuals creates a truly unforgettable 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. Managing resources, tending to colonists' needs, and making difficult moral choices are all part of the experience. The game's unpredictable nature and endless replayability make it a captivating and engaging experience.

Dwarf Fortress

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Metascore: 93 Download: Steam Release Date: December 6, 2022 Developer: Bay 12 Games

Dwarf Fortress is a pioneering sandbox game that has influenced countless others. Its procedurally generated worlds, rich lore, and challenging gameplay create an immersive and unique experience. The 2022 remake brought much-needed improvements while retaining the core elements that made it a classic.

World of Warcraft

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Metascore: 93 Download: World of Warcraft Release Date: November 23, 2004 Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

World of Warcraft's enduring popularity stems from its vast and ever-evolving world, engaging quests, and thriving community. Whether you prefer PvP combat, PvE raiding, or simply exploring the beautiful landscapes of Azeroth, WoW offers something for every player.

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 games, emphasizing strategic thinking and skillful execution over flashy graphics. Its enduring legacy is evident in its continued popularity and its impact on the esports scene.

Minecraft

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Metascore: 93 Download: Minecraft Release Date: November 18, 2011 Developer: Markus Persson, Jens Bergensten

Minecraft's blocky world and limitless creative possibilities have captivated millions. Its simple yet engaging gameplay loop, combined with a thriving modding community, ensures its continued relevance.

Spore

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Metascore: 84 Download: Steam Release Date: September 7, 2008 Developer: Maxis

Spore's unique creature creation tools and evolving gameplay mechanics made it a standout title. While some stages may have been simpler than others, its ambitious scope and creative freedom made it a truly innovative and memorable experience.

Warcraft III

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Metascore: 92 Download: Warcraft III Release Date: July 3, 2002 Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Warcraft III's introduction of hero units revolutionized the real-time strategy genre. Its diverse races, engaging storyline, and influential map editor, which spawned Dota and the MOBA genre, cemented 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 one of the most popular MOBAs globally, known for its extensive roster of characters and its rich lore, which inspired the acclaimed animated series Arcane.

Undertale

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 92 Download: Steam Release Date: September 15, 2015 Developer: Toby Fox

Undertale's unique gameplay mechanics, emotional narrative, and memorable characters made it a cultural phenomenon. Its innovative approach to storytelling and player choice challenged conventions and left a lasting impact.

Inscryption

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 85 Download: Steam Release Date: October 19, 2021 Developer: Daniel Mullins Games

Inscryption's unconventional blend of card game mechanics, puzzle-solving, and meta-narrative elements creates a truly unique and memorable experience. Its unexpected twists and turns keep players engaged and guessing until the very end.

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 emotionally resonant portrayal of civilian life during wartime. Its focus on survival, resource management, and difficult moral choices creates a powerful and unforgettable experience.

Hearthstone

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Metascore: 88 Download: Hearthstone Release Date: March 11, 2014 Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Hearthstone's accessible yet engaging gameplay, combined with its charming art style and connection to the Warcraft universe, has made it a massively popular collectible card game.

Stardew Valley

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Metascore: 89 Download: Steam Release Date: February 26, 2016 Developer: ConcernedApe

Stardew Valley's charming pixel art, relaxing atmosphere, and engaging gameplay loop have made it a beloved farming simulator. Its simple yet rewarding mechanics and countless details create a truly special and immersive experience.

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 less a game and more an interactive art piece. Its focus on reflection, creativity, and the human condition makes it a unique and thought-provoking experience.

The greatest games of all time are more than just genre-defining masterpieces; they are living narratives that unite generations. While this list may evolve, each game has indelibly marked the history of the industry, and perhaps, your heart.