BAFTA Names Most Influential Video Game: Surprising Choice Revealed

BAFTA, the UK's leading arts charity dedicated to celebrating excellence in film, games, and TV, has recently announced the most influential video game of all time, and it's a title that might surprise many: Shenmue. This announcement came after BAFTA conducted a poll among the British public, revealing a diverse list of games that have shaped the industry.

Topping the list is Shenmue, an action-adventure game that hit the shelves in 1999 for the Dreamcast. The game follows the journey of Ryo Hazuki as he seeks to avenge his father's murder. BAFTA praised Shenmue for its detailed open-world setting, which vividly recreates the essence of Yokosuka in the '80s.

Securing the second spot is the pioneering first-person shooter Doom, released in 1993. Following closely in third place is the iconic Super Mario Bros. from 1985. The top five is rounded out by Half-Life (1998) and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998).

Notably, several modern classics like Grand Theft Auto 5, Halo, and Fortnite did not make the cut, showcasing the enduring impact of older titles.

Yu Suzuki, the creator of the Shenmue franchise, expressed his deep honor and gratitude for the game's recognition. He emphasized the game's initial aim to push the boundaries of realism in gaming and highlighted the continued support from fans worldwide. Suzuki also hinted at future developments, stating, "And the story is not over yet, there is more to come!"

Here is the full list of the top 21 most influential games, as voted by the public:

• Shenmue (1999)
• Doom (1993)
• Super Mario Bros. (1985)
• Half-Life (1998)
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
• Minecraft (2011)
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025)
• Super Mario 64 (1996)
• Half-Life 2 (2004)
• The Sims (2000)
• Tetris (1984)
• Tomb Raider (1996)
• Pong (1972)
• Metal Gear Solid (1998)
• World of Warcraft (2004)
• Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
• Final Fantasy VII (1997)
• Dark Souls (2011)
• Grand Theft Auto 3 (2001)
• Skyrim (2011)
• Grand Theft Auto (1997)

Looking ahead, the 2025 BAFTA Game Awards are scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Leading the nominations are Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Astro Bot, and Still Wakes the Deep, with 11, eight, and eight nominations respectively. Thank Goodness You're Here! received seven nominations, Black Myth: Wukong six, and Helldivers 2 is up for five awards.

Reflecting on the 2024 BAFTA Game Awards, Baldur's Gate 3 emerged as a major winner, securing five awards, including Best Game. Other notable winners included Alan Wake 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Viewfinder.