Top 10 best games of all time have shapes the world of gaming has seen thousands of titles, but only a few stand tall as the best video games of all time. These legendary titles broke boundaries, shaped genres, and delivered unforgettable experiences. From epic adventures to thrilling battles, this timeless video games list highlights the top ten games ever made that continue to inspire new generations of players.
When deciding the greatest video games ever, critics, fans, and developers often look at factors like gameplay design, storytelling, influence on future games, and long-term popularity. Many of these titles appear in the Metacritic top games of all time and the critically acclaimed video games list, proving their unmatched impact.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
In 1998, Nintendo released a game that changed adventure gaming forever. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time set new standards with its 3D world, innovative targeting system, and unforgettable story. It regularly appears in the top 10 Nintendo games of all time and on every fan-favorite games of all time list.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 1998 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo 64, later ports on 3DS, Switch Online |
| Copies Sold | Over 7.6 million (N64 alone) |
| Awards | Game of the Year 1998, multiple “greatest game” awards |
| Famous For | Revolutionizing 3D adventure with Z-targeting, epic story, and music |
| Other Facts | Holds one of the highest Metacritic scores (99/100) |
What makes it special is the way it blended puzzle-solving, combat, and exploration into one seamless journey. Players still consider it one of the best single-player games ever, and its influence is visible in many of today’s best RPGs of all time.
SoulCalibur
Released in 1999, SoulCalibur transformed the fighting genre. It introduced fluid 3D movement, weapon-based combat, and smooth mechanics that still feel sharp today. Many rank it in the top 10 fighting games of all time because of its innovation and balance.
| Detail | Informatio |
| Release Year | 1999 |
| Platform(s) | Dreamcast, later on Xbox 360 & PS3 |
| Copies Sold | Over 1.5 million (Dreamcast) |
| Awards | Fighting Game of the Year (1999) |
| Famous For | 3D weapon-based combat, smooth graphics, deep mechanics |
| Other Facts | Ranked among top 10 fighting games of all time by critics |
The game’s visual quality was far ahead of its time, making it one of the most influential video games of all time. Fans still look back at its roster and gameplay as proof of why it belongs on any classic video games top 10 list.
Grand Theft Auto IV
When GTA IV launched in 2008, it raised the bar for open-world storytelling. Its detailed Liberty City captured the essence of New York, offering players one of the best open world games ever. Critics ranked it among the highest rated video games of all time, and it dominated charts as one of the best-selling video games of all time.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC |
| Copies Sold | Over 25 million |
| Awards | Game of the Year 2008, BAFTA Awards |
| Famous For | Realistic open-world design, moral storytelling, detailed Liberty City |
| Other Facts | One of the highest rated video games of all time (Metacritic 98/100) |
Its success lies in the narrative depth. Niko Bellic’s journey mixes moral choices, gritty realism, and cinematic action. Few games rival its storytelling, making it one of the best story-driven games ever.
Super Mario Galaxy
Nintendo surprised the world in 2007 with Super Mario Galaxy, a bold re-imagination of platforming. Its use of gravity-defying worlds and creative level design put it high in the top 10 platformers of all time.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2007 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo Wii |
| Copies Sold | 12.8 million |
| Awards | Game of the Year 2007, BAFTA Best Game |
| Famous For | Gravity-defying platforming, imaginative worlds, orchestral soundtrack |
| Other Facts | Ranked in top 10 platformers of all time |
The orchestral soundtrack, colorful visuals, and imaginative challenges make it a must-play game of all time. Even today, many call it one of the most replayable games ever, perfect for both casual and hardcore players.
Super Mario Galaxy 2
Two years later, Nintendo refined the formula with Super Mario Galaxy 2, which pushed creativity further. It introduced Yoshi, more challenging puzzles, and polished mechanics. Many players see it as the true peak of Mario platforming.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2010 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo Wii |
| Copies Sold | 7.7 million |
| Awards | Perfect review scores from IGN, GameSpot |
| Famous For | Introducing Yoshi, improved puzzles, expanded creativity |
| Other Facts | Considered more polished than the original Galaxy |
Its ability to improve upon an already perfect formula puts it in the ultimate best games of all time list. For those asking what are the best games of all time, this sequel often ranks higher than its predecessor.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
In 2017, Nintendo once again revolutionized gaming with Breath of the Wild. This title redefined freedom, letting players climb mountains, cook meals, and explore at their own pace. It’s often listed in the top 10 adventure games ever and praised as one of the best immersive games ever.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo Switch, Wii U |
| Copies Sold | Over 33 million (Switch only, as of 2025) |
| Awards | Game of the Year 2017, multiple GOTY awards worldwide |
| Famous For | Open-world freedom, survival mechanics, interactive environment |
| Other Facts | Inspired future best open world games ever like Elden Ring |
Its dynamic world set a new benchmark for best open world games ever, making it a shining star among the top 10 best video games in history.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3
The skateboarding craze peaked in 2001 when Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 hit shelves. It became an instant cultural hit, thanks to its trick system, addictive gameplay, and iconic soundtrack. Players often call it one of the top 10 sports games of all time.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2001 |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, PC |
| Copies Sold | Estimated 3.3 million |
| Awards | Best Sports Game 2001 |
| Famous For | Expanded trick system, iconic soundtrack, online multiplayer |
| Other Facts | Cemented skateboarding’s rise in gaming culture |
Its influence spread beyond gaming, inspiring a generation of skateboarders. This game is a strong entry in the must-play classics for gamers and stands as one of the most replayable games ever.
Perfect Dark
Rare’s Perfect Dark, released in 2000, expanded the first-person shooter genre with advanced AI, futuristic weapons, and story-driven missions. It belongs in the best FPS games of all time and is a cornerstone in the top 10 console games ever.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2000 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo 64, Xbox Live Arcade |
| Copies Sold | 2.5 million |
| Awards | Console Shooter of the Year (2000) |
| Famous For | Advanced AI, customizable multiplayer, futuristic setting |
| Other Facts | Developed by Rare, spiritual successor to GoldenEye 007 |
The game introduced features like customizable multiplayer matches, which paved the way for the best multiplayer games ever. Its innovations make it a true entry in the legendary video games list.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Few games match the depth of Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar’s 2018 masterpiece is a cinematic journey across the Wild West, blending stunning visuals with one of the best storylines in video games.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC |
| Copies Sold | Over 61 million |
| Awards | Game of the Year nominee 2018, Best Narrative, Best Audio Design |
| Famous For | Cinematic story, immersive world, emotional character arc |
| Other Facts | One of the best-selling video games of all time |
Its world is so detailed that players call it one of the best immersive games ever. The emotional weight of Arthur Morgan’s story cements its place among the all-time greatest games and the best games ever made.
Metroid Prime
In 2002, Metroid Prime proved that a 2D franchise could thrive in 3D. Its first-person exploration and atmospheric design created one of the best single-player experiences ever. Many rank it in the top 10 action games of all time.
| Detail | Information |
| Release Year | 2002 |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo GameCube, Wii re-release |
| Copies Sold | 2.8 million |
| Awards | Game of the Year 2002 (GameSpot, IGN) |
| Famous For | First-person exploration, atmosphere, sense of discovery |
| Other Facts | Brought Metroid into 3D successfully, shaping best FPS games of all time |
Its haunting music, isolation, and sense of discovery make it stand out in the timeless video games list. It’s a must-play classic for gamers and one of the most influential video games of all time.
Common Threads in the Top 10 Best Games of All Time
These top 10 video games ever share key traits: they redefined genres, pushed technology, and offered deep emotional impact. Whether you look at best retro games ever like Ocarina of Time, or modern hits like Red Dead Redemption 2, each earned a spot on the ultimate best games of all time list through innovation and timeless design.
A quick comparison of their impact can be seen below:
| Game Title | Release Year | Legacy Highlight |
| Ocarina of Time | 1998 | Revolutionized 3D adventure |
| SoulCalibur | 1999 | Defined 3D fighting mechanics |
| GTA IV | 2008 | Raised open-world storytelling standards |
| Super Mario Galaxy | 2007 | Creative platforming with gravity innovation |
| Super Mario Galaxy 2 | 2010 | Perfected platforming formula |
| Breath of the Wild | 2017 | Redefined freedom in adventure games |
| Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 | 2001 | Cultural icon of skateboarding games |
| Perfect Dark | 2000 | Advanced AI and multiplayer systems |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 2018 | Cinematic storytelling at unmatched detail |
| Metroid Prime | 2002 | Perfect 3D adaptation of a classic franchise |
Methodology for Choosing the Top 10 Games Ranked by Critics
The list above draws from Metacritic top games of all time, sales data, and cultural impact. Games that appear in both critically acclaimed video games list and fan-favorite games of all time hold special weight. This balance ensures that both critical praise and community love determine the top 10 best video games.
By comparing expert scores, Steam top rated games of all time, and long-lasting popularity, the ranking becomes fair and transparent.
FAQs
Q1: What are the top 10 best games of all time according to critics?
The top 10 best games of all time often include titles like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Super Mario Galaxy, and Red Dead Redemption 2, which dominate the Metacritic top games of all time rankings.
Q2: Which are the most influential video games of all time?
Games like Ocarina of Time, Grand Theft Auto IV, and Breath of the Wild are considered the most influential video games of all time, shaping genres and inspiring modern titles.
Q3: What is the highest rated video game of all time?
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time holds a 99/100 on Metacritic, making it one of the highest rated video games of all time.
Q4: What are the best single-player games ever?
Some of the best single-player games ever include Red Dead Redemption 2, Metroid Prime, and Breath of the Wild, all praised for deep stories and immersive gameplay.
Q5: What are the best multiplayer games ever?
Among the best multiplayer games ever, SoulCalibur and Perfect Dark stand out, thanks to competitive balance, advanced modes, and replayability.
Q6: Are these games still worth playing today?
Yes. Each title in this timeless video games list remains a must-play classic for gamers, offering experiences that hold up even decades later.
Conclusion
These top 10 best games of all time aren’t just entertainment. They are must-play classics for gamers, shaping the future of storytelling, technology, and culture. From best RPGs of all time to best co-op games of all time, every title in this ranking shows why games can be art as well as fun.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what are the best games of all time, this ultimate best games of all time list gives you the answer. The only question left is—how many of these best games ever 2025 have you played, and which would you add to your own top ten games ever made list?
