Over time, games have become more than novelty played for fun; they are a way of escapism or a way of making a living. From the classic arcade games of the 80s to the AAA titles of today, these games have captured the hearts and minds of players, young and old.
But what makes a game truly iconic?
Is it the gameplay, the story, the characters, or something else entirely?
The answer is different for every player, but some games have managed to excel in all these areas, making them true classics. Games have given us countless memories. They kept us company when we were low; they were with us to put a smile on our faces; they were with us to make us forget the world and escape into a world where anything is possible; they have shown us to take risks, shown us it’s okay to fail.
“Please tell me we’re not alone
In this world fighting the wind.
Life can be simple if you can only see
The best is yet to come.”
So, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just curious about gaming history, read on to discover which games have earned their place as the best of the best.
Contents:
#25 Tetris
Genre: Puzzle
License: Paid (Original)
Available On: Amstrad CPC, Amstrad PCW, Amiga, Atari ST, BBC Micro/Acorn Electron, Commodore 64, MSX, ZX Spectrum (First Tetris Platforms)
Now, this might not be the game you wanted to see on this list, but we cannot simply pass it off either, solely because we have spent countless hours playing it as a kid, and also it has sold over 500 million copies, making it the bestselling video game.
The gameplay is to manipulate different shapes and fit them into horizontal lines to clear the board, with more points gained for completing multiple lines at once. Its simple yet addictive gameplay style has been credited with popularizing video games worldwide, leading many critics and analysts to call it one of the most influential titles ever made. The graphics were basic but captivating.
Its revolutionary impact on gaming didn’t just lie in capturing players’ attention; it was also successful commercially, finally proving videogames had potential outside arcades, which allowed the gaming industry to find new ways they can expand its appeal all around the world. Even decades after its initial release, modern and revamped versions of the game are still being released.
What Gamers Love The Most About Tetris:
- It’s Simple, Yet Addictive
- Develops Quick Reflexes & Mental Skills
- It’s Intuitive
Where To Buy Tetris:
- The original Tetris is long discontinued, but we can still play Tetris clones online.
#24 PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds
Genre: Open World Action-Adventure
License: Free
Available On: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOS
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) is an online multiplayer battle royale game developed by PUBG Studios and Krafton. Although the studio had to overcome significant obstacles getting the game ready for launch, they executed a vision of creating a large-scale battleground with stunning graphics unlike anything ever seen before in gaming.
Unreal Engine4 was the foundation for putting together all the incredible visuals that have come to define PUBG, from its realistic textures and lighting effects to massive maps filled with diverse environments and interactive objects.
PUBG has become an icon in its own right, and in how it disrupted industry conventions concerning WINDOWS shooters, not only inspiring today’s titles but spurring new creative trends years down in online gaming history – the game laid the foundation for the battle royal community for years to come.
What Gamers Love The Most About PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds:
- Unique Gameplay
- Realistic Shootout
- Mobile Availability
- Incredible Maps
Where To Buy PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds:
- Steam
- Epic Store
- PlayStation Store
- Microsoft Store
- Apple Store/PlayStore
#23 GoldenEye 007
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Nintendo 64 (Exclusive Initial Release), Xbox, and Nintendo Wii & Switch (Rerelease)
Now, you must be wondering, we live in the 21st century, and there’s an FPS game from the late nineties; why is that?
There is no shortage of world-class FPS games right now, and GoldenEye 007 – well, it’s pretty old and honestly a not-so “Gen Z” game.
GoldenEye movie aimed to propel the James Bond series into a newer and younger generation of audiences. And to coincide with the film, Rare developed the game, which was released exclusively for Nintendo 64.
The game cemented itself as a paragon for excellence in the first-person shooter genre; it popularized the FPS concept on consoles for the first time.
Before its introduction, WINDOWS was essentially the only platform for first-person shooter video games. Due to its success, an entirely new market was made accessible to the genre. How can we forget the long hours we clocked playing with our buddies?
It’s a fact that individuals who played Goldeneye 007 cherish their memories of playing multiplayer games on split-screen with their friends. The 4-way split screen game was just beginning and paved the way for many AAA multiplayer games.
The cheat codes, the single-player campaign mode, the soundtrack – man, we could keep going for hours talking about this game! GoldenEye 007 is truly one that altered the industry forever!
What Gamers Love The Most About GoldenEye 007:
- Engaging Single Player Campaign Mode
- Split Screen Multiplayer
- Cheat Codes
- It’s a James Bond Game
- Online Multiplayer
- Playable Rogue Agent Mode
Where To Buy GoldenEye 007:
- Amazon (Refurbished/Renewed)
- Microsoft Store (Only For Game Pass)
#22 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Genre: Stealth Game
License: Paid
Available On: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo 3DS
Metal Gear Solid 3 is a critically acclaimed action-adventure stealth game released by Konami in 2004. The third installment of the Metal Gear Solid franchise takes place during the height of the Cold War and puts players in control of Naked Snake, an elite US Special Forces operative on a mission to uncover Soviet secrets.
The graphics for this game were stunning for its time, with highly detailed character models and life-like environments that created an intense atmosphere for gameplay. The game’s graphics pushed boundaries at launch that existing video gaming engines could not handle before its release.
This title’s visuals were highly praised – among many other features like voice acting, animations, cutscenes, storyline, and script writing – creating an incredibly immersive experience that has rarely been matched since its release.
Since its initial launch, Metal Gear Solid 3 has become one of the most iconic titles not only in tactical espionage gaming but in all genres, receiving numerous awards and acclaim.
Metal Gear Solid 3 is a game that sent waves around the gaming community and created a frenzy; even two decades after, the game still remains a masterpiece to come out of the mastermind himself – Hideo Kojima.
What Gamers Love The Most About Video Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater:
- Hideo Kojima’s Cinematics
- Stealth gameplay & Survival Gameplay
- Replay value
- Easter eggs & Rewarding Elements
Where To Buy Video Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater:
- Amazon/GameStop
#21 Titanfall 2
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Talk about bad timing and bad luck; despite being one of the well-designed first-person shooters, Titanfall 2 had a dismal start after its release. But there is no denying that it is one of the best games designed by Respawn Entertainment in the last decade. So much so that, riding off the back of Titanfall, the massive hit battle royale Apex Legends was born.
First off, let’s talk about what makes Titanfall 2 so great. The game featured an incredibly fast-paced multiplayer experience that kept its players on their toes. Players could choose from a variety of different Titans to pilot during battle, each with their own unique abilities and weapons.
The most spellbinding mechanism of the gameplay was its buddy system and how the story pans out between Titan BT and its pilot, Jack. The bond you create with Titan BT throughout the game is quite compelling for the players; it’s joyful and emotional.
This entire chemistry and mixture of gameplay results in one of the best sci-fi shooters of all time; even though the campaign mode is short, you are not left with a void but rather a smile on your face once you finish the game-well, almost after you cry a little first. The game is one roller coaster ride of emotions and actions.
What Gamers Love The Most About Titanfall 2:
- Buddy System
- Multiplayer Mode
- Weapons
- Story
- Gameplay
Where To Buy Titanfall 2:
- Steam
- Xbox Store
- PlayStation Store
- Amazon/GameStop
#20 Overwatch
Genre: Multiplayer First-Person Shooter
License: Free
Available On: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
The gaming giant Blizzard released Overwatch in 2016, and immediately after its launch, the game toppled the entire sales charts. With it being available on all gaming platforms and offering virtually endless gameplay action, it amassed a massive fan base that grew even further with the launch of its sequel.
Blizzard is one of the favorites among the gaming community; the studio has an enormous fanbase. And the loyal fanbase contributed a lot to the success of the game. The one aspect that irks a gamer is to pay-to-play feature, and Blizzard being Blizzard, you can unlock loot boxes in Overwatch through microtransaction, or even better by playing and ranking up! Can we really hate such a studio, ever?
Many players who had never played a shooter before, or non-FPS players, were drawn to Overwatch; it was much simpler and easier to hop onto Overwatch.
Additionally, Blizzard included heroes that are simpler to use if you are new to aiming and shooting. Overwatch even features a diverse line-up of heroes and characters – there is a hero for everyone to connect and relate with. Overwatch is unique; it’s beautiful and odd, with gameplay that introduces players to an entirely new world of first-person shooting.
What Gamers Love The Most About Overwatch:
- It’s Free
- Large & Unique Hero Rooster
- Easy To Learn; Hard To Master
- Availability
Where To Buy Overwatch:
- Battlenet
- PlayStation Store
- Microsoft Store
- Nintendo eShop
#19 Dota 2
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
License: Free
Available On: PC
Dota 2 is one of the most popular games in the world, with millions of gamers playing every day. It is a multiplayer online battle arena game developed by Valve Corporation, with its roots tracing back to the original Defense of the Ancients (DotA) mod for Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos.
Dota 2 has become popular due to its unique gameplay, immersive eSports tournaments, and its competitive nature that encourages players to keep pushing themselves to improve. The game has significantly impacted gaming culture, influencing other games and inspiring creativity and innovation.
Despite the challenge of keeping the game fresh and interesting, Dota 2 has managed to remain an all-time classic. Dota 2 success formula for success is simple – it’s engaging to play the game!
No matter how much time you spend on the game, whether it’s 50 hours or 500 hours, there is always something new to learn and fun to do. Ultimately, Dota 2 stands out in the MOBA genre and is a must-play for competitive gaming fans thanks to its deep gameplay, competitive scenes, and passionate community.
What Gamers Love The Most About Dota 2:
- It’s Free
- Rewarding Gameplay
- Dota Community
- Game Diversity
- Much More Than a Game
- Competitive
- A Team Game
Where To Buy Video Dota 2:
- Steam (Free)
#18 Dark Souls
Genre: Role-playing Game
License: Paid
Available On: WINDOWS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation5, Xbox One
Dark Souls is an action-RPG video game developed by FromSoftware and has gained a devoted fan base over the years thanks to its back-breaking difficulty and unique gameplay mechanics.
Since its launch, many industry analysts hailed Dark Souls’ legacy to be influential across various genres due to its innovative level design.
It follows an intricate story full of mysterious characters, exciting plot twists, and difficult moral choices keeping the players immersed in its world for hours at a time.
As well as offering an engaging narrative experience, Dark Souls also features beautiful visuals with stunningly detailed environments and unique enemies to battle- making it possible to explore its universe like never before.
What Gamers Love The Most About Dark Souls:
- Sense of Achievement When You Finally Defeat A Boss
- Cool Weapons & Level designs
- Music & Background Score
- Fight Paced Fights
- Boss Fights
- Mods
Where To Buy Dark Souls:
- Nintendo eShop
- Amazon/GameStop
- PlayStation Store
- Microsoft Store
#17 Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
Genre: Action-adventure
License: Paid
Available On: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
One of the best video game sequels ever, Among Thieves refutes the idea that the first game is always superior. Although the entire Uncharted series is worth playing, one game stands out among the others in a series that is packed with mystery and thrilling moments.
One of the reasons why Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is so popular is its storytelling. The game’s plot follows the treasure hunter Nathan Drake as he searches for the lost city of Shambhala, battling mercenaries and uncovering secrets.
The narrative is engaging and immersive, with twists and turns that keep players hooked. The characters are well-developed and memorable, and the voice acting is top-notch. From the get-go, players become invested in the story and develop a connection with the characters, making the game even more compelling.
Another reason for its massive popularity is its graphics; yeah, if you compare it with today’s Uncharted 4, but for its time, it was insanely good!
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves was one of the first games to use the PlayStation 3’s full potential, with stunning graphics and realistic environments. All in all, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is a classic game that has stood the test of time. Its storytelling, gameplay, graphics, multiplayer mode, and overall quality have all contributed to its enduring popularity among gamers. Our “Dude Raider” hardly disappoints; every game in the series is just so good!
What Gamers Love The Most About Uncharted 2: Among Thieves:
- Perfect Entry To Franchise
- Pulsating Gameplay
- Enjoyable Campaign & Multiplayer Mode
- Combat System
Where To Buy Game Uncharted 2: Among Thieves:
- PlayStation Store
- Amazon/GameStop
#16 Resident Evil 4
Genre: Survival-Horror
License: Paid
Available On: GameCube
What do you think – is Resident Evil 4 a horror game?
Some agree, and some don’t. But what makes RE 4 perfect is its ability to blend suspense and survival into horror.
Developed and published by Capcom, RE 4 took the survival horror genre to a whole new level. Resident Evil 4 also connected with its audience on a deep level. The game’s storyline was engaging and immersive, with complex characters and a well-crafted plot that kept players engaged from start to finish.
Resident Evil 4’s use of horror elements, such as jump scares and atmospheric tension, also resonated with players, who appreciated the game’s ability to make them feel afraid and uneasy. Its iconic status is due to its impact on the entire gaming industry. Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the survival horror genre, introducing new mechanics such as over-the-shoulder aiming, quick-time events, and dynamic environments.
Not many games can boast that they introduced a whole new mechanism – games like God War, Last of Us, and Uncharted are actually more enjoyable due to such a mechanism. The revolutionary mechanics not only made the gameplay better but also helped to reach out to a new set of audiences and gamers.
What Gamers Love The Most About Resident Evil 4:
- Balanced Gameplay & Atmosphere
- Better Weapon & Inventory Systems
- Fun and Better Variety
- It Revolutionized The Gaming Industry
- Game’s Pacing
Where To Buy Video Game Resident Evil 4:
- Resident Evil 4 will be remade and released on the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows in 2023 (Tentatively in March).
#15 Minecraft
Genre: Sandbox Survival
License: Paid
Available On: PC, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Android, and IOS
Minecraft is everywhere! Whether you are a gamer or not, a kid or an adult, a student or an executive, all of you have heard of Minecraft, and there’s no denying that it is a goliath in the gaming fandom.
The gameplay is simple, you chop trees, build stuff, and dig burrows till the sun sets. And that’s when lurking danger arises; once the sun is set, the enemies rise, and the game is more than simple mining and slashing trees – it is now a survival game!
Becoming one of the best-selling video games of all time is an achievement for a game released over a decade ago, competing with AAA games and big-gun gaming studios. After all, amassing over 150 million monthly users is not an easy task.
How does a sandbox game where all players get to do is mine – I mean, the name of the game says it all – so popular?
Because the answer is simple, the only thing that keeps you going in this game is your imagination. And with that, the game has no bounds, and the possibilities of you doing anything are limitless!
But the aspect that kept the game running for this long is the Minecraft community. The community helped the kept the game refreshing for new players to hop on; with their custom maps, mods, and content. We can almost see in the news a Minecraft player built or did something cool every month or so.
What Gamers Love The Most About Minecraft:
- Unlimited Customizations
- No Age Restriction
- Endless Exploration
- You Can Create Your World
- No Platform Restriction
Where To Buy Minecraft:
- Official Minecraft Website
- Amazon/GameStop
- PlayStation Store
- Xbox Shop
- Nintendo eShop
#14 Doom
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: MS-DOS
Doom is a classic video game well-known both inside and outside the gaming world. Developed in 1993 by id Software, it set the standard for FPS games and has become an iconic title with numerous sequels throughout the years.
We now live in a world where games run on several gigabytes of RAM, and Doom has achieved to captivate gamers all over with a megabyte of RAM.
One reason why people love playing Doom so much comes down mainly to how influential the title proved upon release. Back when it came out, it pretty much-defined expectations within shooters until now, even three decades later, due to its detailed 3D-level designs with various paths leading toward objectives rather than linear relations between points.
While modern-day video may offer high-resolution eye candy, games like Doom are hard to come by again, and there’s always a nostalgia that keeps sucking us into the game for more. Doom is even relevant today as it was three decades ago.
What Gamers Love The Most About Doom:
- Extremely Immersive For Its Time
- Multiplayer Experience
- Innovative Weapon System
- Single Player Campaign Mode
Where To Buy Doom:
- Steam
#13 Batman: Arkham City
Genre: Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: WINDOWS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii U
During its initial days, superhero games were somewhat underwhelming for gamers. But gaming studios over the years have found their knack for creating an immersive world with our favorite superheroes. The game that stood tall among the pile is Batman: Arkham City.
Just when we thought Rocksteady couldn’t beat a masterpiece like Batman: Arkham Asylum, they one-up their own game with Arkham City. Arkham City outperformed its predecessor in every aspect conceivable.
One thing that sets Arkham City apart from others in the gaming industry is its complete dedication to story development and eloquence through gameplay progression.
Through various shifting perspectives between Bruce Wayne/Batman himself; Catwoman; Penguin; Two-Face; Mr. Freeze – amongst many more – players experience some truly suspenseful stories filled with twists around every corner. And honestly, what can be more exhilarating than facing off with Joker?
What Gamers Love The Most About Batman: Arkham City:
- Open World
- Side Missions
- Supervillains & Boss Fights
- Combat
- Iconic Villinas Like Joker & Ra’s Al Ghul
Where To Buy Batman: Arkham City:
- Steam
- Xbox Store
- PlayStation Store
- Amazon/GameStop
#12 Borderlands 2
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: WINDOWS, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch
Borderlands 2 is one of a kind game; why you ask? Simply because the game prioritizes fun over all else.
Released in 2012, this first-person shooter has captivated millions and won multiple awards over the years since its launch. It’s no surprise that fans continue to flock to this game, as it offers hours upon hours of excitement and entertainment.
Borderland 2 is memorable for its colorful cast of characters. From lovable scoundrels like Handsome Jack to the powerhouse Salvador, each character brings something unique to the game – not just their skill set but also providing a sense of entertainment that transcends beyond gameplay, and witty dialogue writing is a cherry on the top.
More than the characters, the gameplay, and the story, Borderlands 2 is highly replayable, making it even more fun to revisit and play; also, with co-op, you get to play with your friends. Gaming studios should take notes from Borderland 2 on how to ace looter shooter games.
What Gamers Love The Most About Borderlands 2:
- A good starting point for the franchise
- Characters
- Replayability
- Humor
- Co-operative Play
Where To Buy Borderlands 2:
- Steam
- Xbox Store
- PlayStation Store
- Amazon/GameStop
- Nintendo eShop
#11 Silent Hill 2
Genre: Horror
License: Paid
Available On: WINDOWS, PlayStation 2, Xbox, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
If you had to place one horror game on top of your list, what would it be? For me, and many in the gaming community, it is Silent Hill 2.
From the character development to the music to the bizarre items to puzzles to exploration-Silent Hills creates compelling gameplay like no other. The first thing that comes to mind when talking about Silent Hill 2 is its story, which draws players into an ever-evolving narrative driven by compelling characters and suspenseful scenarios.
Unlike many games of this genre, there is no clear path forward; instead, players must navigate their way through a world full of terrors where one wrong move could lead to death or worse.
The game ensured that you’d find no comfort whatsoever; it kept us on the edge of our seats with suspense and made us waltz out of our room with its jump scare. The game even gave us one of the most iconic villains ever, Pyramid Head, not to mention the countless nightmares he gave to the gamers while chasing them.
Despite being released over two decades ago, the graphics used still provide a remarkably atmospheric experience even today, from foggy streets to abandoned buildings to the game’s distinct musical score.
However, given its age, it may not be as frightening as more recent horror games. But I daresay, it does not mean you can still play this game alone at night!
What Gamers Love The Most About Silent Hill 2:
- The OST of the game is enough to scare someone witless
- Exploration
- Character Development
- One of the best storylines
- A complex psychological thriller
Where To Buy Silent Hill 2:
- Due unavailability of the game, it is next to impossible to find a disk of SIlent Hills 2 in the store or online; at best, you can buy a pre-owned version.
#10 BioShock
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
We come across games that are way ahead of their time, and BioShock was one such game that came out in 07. There are games we play, and then there’s BioShock; it’s not just a game you play or about the gameplay, but how you work your way throughout the story.
BioShock Franchise is a game no one can miss. “Would You Kindly” has probably wreaked havoc in every player’s mind who played through the en; almost one and half decades later, at least, I still can’t get over it!
A game that is an art, or not – maybe this an overstatement, or perhaps it is an understatement? We’ll let you decide for yourself.
One of the defining features of BioShock is its unique setting. Rapture is a beautifully realized underwater metropolis designed to look like a utopia gone wrong. The game’s graphics are top-notch, with an attention to detail evident in every inch of the environment. The water effects, lighting, and architecture are all expertly crafted, creating an immersive experience that feels like no other game. But the story is what really sets BioShock apart.
The game’s plot is full of twists and turns, emphasizing moral ambiguity that challenges players to question their own beliefs. The character of Andrew Ryan is a standout, with his grandiose vision of a society free from government regulation. The player is forced to grapple with the consequences of these ideals as they witness the horrific aftermath of Ryan’s experiment.
People love BioShock for a variety of reasons. Some appreciate its immersive setting and attention to detail, while others are drawn to its complex story and characters. But what makes the game truly great is its ability to challenge players to think critically about the world around them. BioShock asks difficult questions about the nature of power, morality, free will and leaves players to grapple with the answers independently.
What Gamers Love The Most About BioShock:
- Impeccable Art Direction
- Twist That Messed Our Minds
- Open World (Somewhat)
- Backdrop of Rapture
- Incredible Narrative, Gameplay & Story
Where To Buy BioShock:
- Steam
- Amazon/GameStop
- PlayStation Store
- Xbox Shop
- Nintendo eShop
#9 Halo 2
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, Xbox, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Very few live up to the hype of the first installment of a movie, a game, or a book. Halo 2 not only lived up to expectations but also one-upped the Halo series. Halo 2 was a monumental landmark for Xbox.
Perhaps the biggest reason for Halo 2’s lasting popularity is its connection with players. The game’s single-player campaign is engaging and cinematic, with a gripping storyline and memorable characters. The multiplayer mode, meanwhile, is addictive and endlessly replayable, with a wide variety of maps and game modes.
The story of Halo 2 picks up where the original game left off, following the continuing adventures of the Master Chief, a cybernetically enhanced super-soldier, as he battles the alien Covenant and their leader.
Halo 2 is an iconic video game that has left a lasting impact on the industry and connected with players in a way that few other games have. Its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and engaging story are enough for it to be on the list.
Its legacy continues to live on today. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Halo 2 is a game that is definitely worth experiencing. Many players have fond memories of spending hours playing Halo 2 with friends, online and offline.
What Gamers Love The Most About Halo 2:
- Memorable Campaign
- Weapon Systems & Dual Wielding
- Story Telling & World Building
- POV From Enimes Perspective (Dual Story)
- Revolutionary Multiplayer Mode
- Halo Community
Where To Buy Halo 2:
- Steam
- Amazon/GameStop
- Xbox Shop
#8 Grand Theft Auto V
Genre: Open World Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: WINDOWS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox 360
Pulling off a behemoth of open world game that can keep the players interested even after the end of the campaign is a back-breaking challenge, and Rockstar Studios pulled this fest off beautifully and expertly.
The fictional city of Los Santos, which draws heavily from Los Angeles, served as the ideal setting for gamers. Each section often has its own distinct style and feel, and the city as a whole has been painstakingly designed. Rockstar Studios deserves all the praise, and what they have done with Los Santos is simply incredible.
Although it went through its DLC expansions, GTA IV experimented with having several protagonists. But GTA 5 features three characters in the primary plot campaign, unlike its predecessor. All three characters – Trevor, Michael, and Franklin – are unique and distinctive.
A game which little less than a decade old is still going strong. How so?
Thanks to its multiplayer and online universe, the players are hooked to the game more than they were during the initial release. The online community has it all. Become an ambulance drive, rob banks, flip houses, mod cars, organize events, the list is never-ending; it stops when you stop. The game is still relevant and will keep you entertained – at least until the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.
What Gamers Love The Most About Grand Theft Auto V:
- Massive Open World Gameplay
- Modding Community
- A Game Within Game
- Incredible Storyline
Where To Buy Grand Theft Auto V:
- Steam
- Epic Store
- Amazon/GameStop
- PlayStation Store
- Microsoft Store
- Rockstar Store
#7 Portal 2
Genre: First-Person Puzzle
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch
Games are much more than shooting, roaming, and pacing; sometimes, they are about your reflexes, memory, and problem-solving skills. Portal 2 is one such game with excellent harmony between simplicity and challenge. You get to travel between portals; how better can it get?
Portal 2 is a first-person puzzle game developed and published by Valve Corporation, which is one of the most loved studios for any gamer. Portal 2’s story picks up several hundred years after the first game’s events. It follows the player character, Chell, as she navigates through the ruins of the Aperture Science facility with the help of a new character, Wheatley, and the voice of the now-mad AI, GLaDOS.
Portal 2’s gameplay played a humongous role in its success. The game’s puzzles require players to use a “portal gun” to create portals that allow them to travel through space and time. The game’s puzzles are cleverly designed and require players to use logic and spatial reasoning to solve. The game’s humor and memorable characters have created a dedicated fanbase, who have created fan art, cosplay, and even music inspired by the game.
The game’s community has also created countless mods and custom levels, extending the game’s longevity and providing players with new challenges and experiences.
Portal 2 is a truly iconic video game that has made a lasting impact on the industry and connected with audiences in a unique way. Its innovative gameplay, striking graphics, and memorable characters have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a deserving entry on any list of the most iconic video games of all time.
What Gamers Love The Most About Portal 2:
- Well-Paced Story
- Engaging Writing
- Co-operative Play
- Enticing Characters
- Best Puzzles
Where To Buy Portal 2:
- Amazon/GameStop
- Xbox Shop
#6 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Genre: Open World RPG
License: Paid
Available On: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a game that has become an icon in the video game industry, and for a good reason. The game is set in a sprawling open world that is richly detailed and filled with memorable characters, epic quests, and dangerous creatures. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher.
Gamers from all over are still captivated by the intricately crafted world of The Witcher 3, which is filled with a diverse range of monsters, magic, and chaotic elements. Every step you take, every decision you make, can change the gameplay. The game’s in your hands, figuratively and quite literally. The narratives of the game, and the game itself, have managed to withstand the test of time and remain popular among gamers.
Open World RPG is not a new genre for the gaming community, but CD Projekt’s refreshing take on avoiding bloated check-list like quests and side-quest is the one to fall in love with; each mission is a hand-crafted masterpiece; some may think I am exaggerating a bit.
The Witcher 3’s success is a testament to its ability to connect with audiences through its compelling storytelling, immersive world, and engaging gameplay. The game’s legacy continues to this day, with a successful Netflix series (okay-okay, somewhat successful).
What Gamers Love The Most About The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
- Immersive and expansive open-world environment
- Stunning Visuals
- Dynamic and morally ambiguous choices
- Well-developed and complex characters
- Challenging enemies
- A wide range of side quests and activities
Where To Buy Game The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
- Amazon/GameStop
- Steam
- PlayStation Store
- Xbox Store
- Nintendo eShop
#5 God of War (2018)
Genre: Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
God of War (2018) is not just a game but a masterpiece that has set new standards in the gaming world. This game connected with fans on a level that is hard to explain. From the epic storyline to the stunning graphics and heart-thumping soundtrack, God of War was a massive hit at the time of its release, and it continues to be so today.
Every God of War game remained close to the studio’s fans, but this game showed us that God of War is more than just hack-and-slash – it is a story of redemption, it is a story of a tormented father raising his kid; it is a story of a whole new God of War.
God of War’s success was its innovative take on the series’ protagonist, Kratos. The game depicts a new side to Kratos, who has now settled down in Norse mythology with his son Atreus. This emotional journey of father and son resonated with players, who were able to empathize with Kratos in a previously impossible way. This newfound emotional depth made the character more relatable and helped players connect with him on a personal level.
You could harp on the few aspects being a bit clunkier or riff about intricately game design that brings you close to Kratos – the game connected with fans in a way that few games have before, making it a timeless classic. Maybe we should have added God of War Ragnarok instead of its predecessor; would that be a recency bias?
What Gamers Love The Most About God of War (2018):
- Refreshingly New Story
- Norse Mythology & Lore
- First GOW to Feature Out of PlayStation Ecosystem
- Side Quests
- RPG-like Combat Mechanism
- Character development
Where To Buy Game God of War (2018):
- Amazon/GameStop
- Steam (Upcoming)
- PlayStation Store
#4 Half-Life 2
Genre: First-Person Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, Xbox, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
AHH! Will we ever get to see Half-Life 3? Gamers waited so long that it became a “meme,” though funny; we are still left with no Half-Life 3. Okay, enough rambling, now onto the game on the list.
Half-Life 2 is a first-person shooter game developed and published by Valve Corporation in 2004. One of the standout features of Half-Life 2 is its graphics, which were state-of-the-art at the time of its release.
The game featured detailed character models, stunning environments, and realistic physics, all of which combined to create a sense of immersion that had never been seen before in a first-person shooter game. The graphics made up the atmosphere, creating a sense of dread and unease; each moment played was more immersive.
Gamers loved Half-Life 2 for a variety of reasons. Some appreciate the game’s innovation and impact on the industry, while others love the storyline, characters, and atmosphere. Many also relish the modding community, which has produced countless user-generated content and kept the game fresh and exciting for years.
Although Gordon Freeman and his crowbar may never appear again, the impact of the series, which laid the groundwork for the development of games, is still felt today.
What Gamers Love The Most About Half-Life 2:
- It’s You Who Plays The Game, Not Gordon
- Phenomenal Pacing
- Smooth Naraitive & Transition
- Futuristic Dystopian World
- Immersive Gameplay
- Modding Community
Where To Buy Game Half-Life 2:
- Steam
- Amazon/GameStop
#3 Red Dead Redemption 2
Genre: Open-World Action Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One
If there’s a game that’s synonymous with a work of art, then it’s Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar’s open world is undoubtedly the best, but RDR2’s realistic open world can make other open-world games look like a school project.
In 2018, Red Dead Redemption 2 was one of the most eagerly awaited video game releases ever, promising to provide players with one of the most ambitious gaming experiences ever created by Rockstar. Aside from the sheer size of the release, the game’s legacy from its predecessor, which was regarded as a landmark depiction of the Old West in the video game medium, undoubtedly helped to support the new release.
The stunning game environment and panoramas of Red Dead Redemption 2 are a deceptively significant factor in the game’s success. The game’s map is expansive, featuring a variety of environments, from snowy mountains to swamps and forests. The attention to detail is astounding, with every inch of the world feeling alive and immersive.
Red Dead Redemption 2’s popularity is due to its engaging story, memorable characters, immersive open world, polished gameplay, fantastic music, and sound design. The game has set a new standard for open-world games, and its impact will be felt in the gaming industry for years to come. It’s no surprise that fans have fallen in love with this game.
What Gamers Love The Most About Red Dead Redemption 2:
- Massive Open World Gameplay
- Wild-West Backdrop
- Online Community/Multiplayer Mode
- One of The Best Side Contents in a Game
- Scenic & Immersive Gameplay
- Impeccable Storyline
Where To Buy Game Red Dead Redemption 2:
- Amazon/GameStop
- Steam
- PlayStation Store
- Xbox Store
#2 The Last of Us
Genre: Survival-Horror
License: Paid
Available On: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows (Not Yet Released)
For the people who stated the single-player campaign mode is dead – I present to you Last of Us.
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure game that follows the story of Joel and Ellie, two survivors in a world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into monsters.
Throughout the journey, the duo faces numerous challenges and obstacles, and the player is left to wonder if they will make it through alive. The game’s graphics are stunning! The game was developed for the PlayStation 3, a decade-and-a-half-old console, but the graphics and character models are still impressive to this day.
No matter how good a game is, it becomes cumbersome moving forward with set pieces, where you shoot a set of enemies and move to the next point, and so on. Last of Us does this too, but what makes the game different is its ability to keep the gameplay fresh yet engaging. The game’s narrative explores themes of loss, love, and the human condition, and it is expertly crafted to evoke a range of emotions from players.
What makes The Last of Us so iconic is how it impacted the industry and connected with the audience. It’s not just another game that you play and forget; it’s something that stays with you long after you’ve finished playing it. I mean, how many video games can boast that it has one of the top-rated TV shows after it?
What Gamers Love The Most About The Last of Us:
- Immersive Story
- Innovative Gameplay
- Compelling Characters
- Multiplayer Mode
- Stunning Visuals
Where To Buy Game The Last of Us:
- Amazon/GameStop
- Steam (Upcoming)
- PlayStation Store
#1 The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Genre: Open World Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
Certain games come once in a lifetime, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one such game. The game revolutionized how players and developers approached the open-world genre. I think it is safe to say that Nintendo has achieved legendary status with the launch of Breath of the Wild.
Being the third time, The Legend of Zelda series has successfully reinvented itself, which is unusual in the game industry. It’s all the more astounding.
The most significant aspect of Breath of the Wild is that it provides a new look into a genre of game that has largely remained unexplored in the gaming industry; an open-world gameplay style far more sophisticated than that typically found in other popular games.
Not only does this game have some of the best open-world designs, but it also tackles this world differently from past popular open-world games. The gameplay possibilities in Breath of the Wild’s vast physical playground aren’t predetermined by a sweatshop quest designer but rather by the player themselves. Breath of the Wild is one such game where two playthroughs are the same.
What Gamers Love The Most About The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild:
- Experience Like No Other Open World
- Incredible Characters
- Stunning Visuals & Gameplay
- Freedom of Exploring & Playing
- Engaging Side Quests
Where To Buy The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild:
- Nintendo eShop
- Amazon/GameStop
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Well, no matter how much we cover, a few iconic games still need to be included in our countdown. So, here are a few popular video games worth mentioning.
Honorable Mentions
Super Mario World
Genre: Platform Game
License: Paid
Available On: Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy Advance
Elden Ring
Genre: Action Role-Playing
License: Paid
Available On: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Genre: Action Role-Playing
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S
Mass Effect 2
Genre: First-Person-Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Half-Life: Alyx
Genre: First-Person-Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows
Final Fantasy XIV
Genre: MMORPG
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
The Last of Us Part 2
Genre: Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Counter-Strike 1.6
Genre: First-Person-Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, Xbox
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Genre: Action-Adventure
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
Genre: First-Person-Shooter
License: Paid
Available On: Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox
There you have it, a closer look at some of the most iconic video games of all time. Each game on this list has left a lasting impression on the gaming industry and continues to be loved by gamers worldwide.
Is there a game that you think should have made it to the list? Let us know it all.
Happy gaming!
