Home News Top 30 Greatest Games of All Time

Top 30 Greatest Games of All Time

Author : Brooklyn Update : Mar 04,2025

A Timeless Collection: The Greatest Video Games of All Time

Some games, like cherished friends, remain with us for years; their melodies etched in memory, their moments of triumph and defeat still evoking emotion. Others are incandescent flashes, seismic shifts that redefined industry standards.

But how does one define "best"? For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood adventure; for others, a multiplayer epic uniting thousands. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their status validated by the most respected rating systems.

Explore our genre-specific game selections:

Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformers

Table of Contents ---

Half-Life 2

Half-Life 2 Image: steam.com

Metascore: 96 | Download: Steam | Release Date: November 16, 2004 | Developer: Valve

Valve's 2004 masterpiece, Half-Life 2, casts you as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist navigating an alien-occupied world. Beyond combat, you'll solve intricate puzzles, interact with the environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. Its immersive narrative, groundbreaking physics engine (still impressive today), and intelligent enemy AI create an unforgettable experience.

Portal 2

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. GLaDOS, the sarcastic and sinister AI, and the endearingly annoying Wheatley provide memorable dialogue and interactions. Increasingly complex puzzles introduce new mechanics, such as surface-altering gels and light bridges, while the addition of multiplayer enhances replayability.

Diablo II

Diablo II Image: polygon.com

Metascore: 88 | Download: Diablo II | Release Date: June 28, 2000 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Diablo II isn't just a game; it's a landmark achievement in the ARPG genre. Blizzard's 2000 release set a new standard, captivating players with its dark gothic world, addictive gameplay loop of monster slaying, loot collection, and character progression, and enduring appeal, evidenced by its re-releases and continued modding community.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

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 vast, meticulously detailed world as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter. Its compelling narrative, morally complex quests, and unforgettable characters have cemented its status as a cult classic and critical darling, garnering numerous awards.

Sid Meier's Civilization V

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 stems from its engaging gameplay: guide a civilization through the ages, from primitive beginnings to spacefaring dominance. Manage cities, advance technology and culture, and forge alliances or wage war. The randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations ensure endless replayability, further enriched by expansions adding depth and complexity.

Fallout 3

Fallout 3 Image: newgamenetwork.com

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

Bethesda's 2008 open-world Action/RPG, Fallout 3, remains a timeless classic. Emerging from Vault 101 into the post-apocalyptic ruins of Washington D.C., players enjoy unparalleled freedom of choice, shaping their destiny in a world filled with danger and opportunity. Its atmospheric setting, retro soundtrack, and compelling narrative create an unforgettable experience.

BioShock

BioShock Image: steam.com

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

BioShock transcends the typical action shooter, immersing players in a disturbingly beautiful 1960s underwater city. Its atmospheric setting, cryptic storytelling, and thought-provoking themes have sparked countless discussions and cemented its place in gaming history.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 Image: steam.com

Metascore: 97 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games

Rockstar Games' Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers an unparalleled immersive experience. As Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, you'll navigate a vast and detailed world, making choices that shape your character and destiny in the dying days of the Wild West. Its immersive world, compelling narrative, and player agency create an unforgettable journey.

Dark Souls 2

Dark Souls 2 Image: steam.com

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

Dark Souls II, released in 2014, is a challenging yet rewarding action RPG. Its unforgiving difficulty, intricate world design, and deep lore have made it a beloved classic, sparking debate over its brutal yet masterful design.

Doom Eternal

Doom Eternal Image: steam.com

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 relentless demonic hordes create a visceral and exhilarating experience. Its focus on intense gameplay and satisfying action makes it a standout in the first-person shooter genre.

Baldur's Gate 3

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 player choices significantly impact the narrative. Create your character, assemble a party, and embark on an epic quest filled with dragons, magic, intrigue, and impactful dialogue options. Its deep role-playing mechanics and branching narrative provide a truly personalized experience.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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. Its vast open world, compelling narrative, and freedom of choice allow for countless hours of exploration and adventure. Climb mountains, delve into dungeons, and battle dragons in this endlessly replayable RPG.

Mass Effect 2

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. Its compelling characters, impactful choices, and thrilling combat create a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic exploration.

Grand Theft Auto V

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 in its vast and chaotic open world. Engage in the main storyline or create your own mayhem in Los Santos. Its sandbox gameplay and limitless possibilities make it a perennial favorite.

Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 4 Image: steam.com

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

Resident Evil 4 revolutionized survival horror, blending classic elements with dynamic action and memorable boss encounters. Its innovative gameplay, gripping atmosphere, and unforgettable moments continue to influence the genre.

Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium Image: steam.com

Metascore: 91 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM

Disco Elysium is a unique RPG focusing on narrative and character development. Its unconventional gameplay, philosophical themes, and stunning visuals create a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

RimWorld

RimWorld Image: steam.com

Metascore: 87 | Download: Steam | Release Date: October 17, 2018 | Developer: Ludeon Studios

RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator where survival is a constant struggle. Manage resources, deal with crises, and make difficult choices in this unpredictable and often humorous experience.

Dwarf Fortress

Dwarf Fortress Image: steam.com

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

Dwarf Fortress, a seminal sandbox game, generates vast and detailed worlds with rich history and lore. Manage a colony of dwarves, battling challenges and creating a thriving (or failing) fortress. Its complex systems and emergent gameplay make it a unique and enduring experience.

World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com

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

World of Warcraft's enduring popularity is due to its vast and ever-evolving world, engaging quests, and thriving community. Explore Azeroth, complete quests, engage in PvP combat, and participate in epic raids in this massively multiplayer online role-playing game.

StarCraft

StarCraft Image: polygon.com

Metascore: 88 | Download: StarCraft | Release Date: March 31, 1998 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

StarCraft, a real-time strategy classic, set a new standard for the genre. Its strategic depth, competitive gameplay, and enduring esports legacy make it a timeless classic.

Minecraft

Image: minecraft.net

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

Minecraft's blocky world offers unparalleled creative freedom. Build anything imaginable, explore vast landscapes, or survive against hostile mobs. Its simple yet engaging gameplay and endless possibilities have captivated millions.

Spore

Spore Image: axios.com

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

Spore's unique creature creation tools and evolving gameplay make it a memorable and innovative experience, despite some criticisms of its later stages.

Warcraft III

Warcraft III Image: warcraft3.blizzard.com

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

Warcraft III introduced hero units to the real-time strategy genre, adding a new layer of depth and strategy. Its memorable characters, engaging campaign, and influential map editor have secured its place in gaming history.

League of Legends

League of Legends Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 78 | Download: League of Legends | Release Date: October 27, 2009 | Developer: Riot Games

League of Legends is a massively popular MOBA, known for its diverse roster of champions and competitive gameplay. Despite recent challenges, its enduring popularity and influence on the genre are undeniable.

Undertale

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 created a cultural phenomenon. Its innovative approach to storytelling and player choice made it a critical and commercial success.

Inscryption

Inscryption Image: steam.com

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

Inscryption is a unique and meta-narrative card game with unexpected twists and turns. Its unconventional gameplay and mind-bending puzzles create a truly unforgettable experience.

This War of Mine

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. Its challenging gameplay and thought-provoking themes create a powerful and memorable experience.

Hearthstone

Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com

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

Hearthstone's accessible gameplay and charming art style made it a massively popular collectible card game.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley Image: steam.com

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

Stardew Valley's charming pixel art, relaxing gameplay, and engaging story have made it a beloved farming simulator.

The Beginner's Guide

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 unique and thought-provoking game that blends gameplay with artistic expression.

The greatest games transcend genre; they are living narratives that resonate across generations. While this list may evolve, each title has indelibly marked gaming history – and perhaps, your heart.