Top 30 All-Time Greatest Games Revealed

Some games, like old friends, stay with us for years: their music becomes etched in our memory, and moments of triumph or defeat still give us chills. Others are like bright flashes that shook the industry and set new standards.

Choosing the "best" game is subjective, as what resonates with one person might not appeal to another. For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood quest, while for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that brought together thousands of people. We've gathered a list of the best games of all time, validated by authoritative ratings.

We also recommend exploring our selections of games by other genres:

Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers

Table of Content ---

Half-Life 2

Image: steam.com

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

Half-Life 2, released by Valve in 2004, is a legendary first-person shooter. You play as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist navigating a world occupied by an alien empire. This game goes beyond shooting, requiring you to solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and utilize the iconic gravity gun. The story captivates from the outset, immersing you in a world where humanity fights for survival. The game's advanced physics still hold up today, and the enemies are intelligent, making for a challenging and immersive experience.

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 humor. You'll find yourself laughing at GLaDOS's sarcastic remarks and enjoying interactions with Wheatley, the endearing yet irritating robot. The game's puzzles escalate in complexity, introducing innovative mechanics like gels and light bridges. Don't miss the engaging multiplayer mode added in this sequel.

Diablo II

Image: polygon.com

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

Diablo II, released by Blizzard in 2000, is more than just a game; it's an era. It set the standard for action RPGs with its dark, gothic world filled with ominous secrets. You choose your hero and embark on a perilous journey to fight monsters, collect loot, and grow stronger. Its addictiveness lies in every new sword and skill upgrade, making it a timeless classic that continues to attract fans and inspire mods.

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 offers an immersive universe where you play as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter. The meticulously crafted world is filled with detailed quests that unfold like full stories, complete with intriguing characters and moral dilemmas. Praised for its narrative depth and atmospheric design, this game has become a cult classic, earning numerous awards and accolades.

Sid Meier's Civilization V

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release Date: September 21, 2010
Developer: Firaxis Games, Aspyr Media

Civilization V remains a beloved strategy game, allowing you to lead a civilization from the Stone Age to the space age. Build cities, advance science and culture, and navigate diplomatic or military interactions with other civilizations. Each playthrough offers a unique experience with randomly generated maps and diverse strategies. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" add depth with new mechanics, ensuring endless hours of engagement.

Fallout 3

Image: newgamenetwork.com

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

Released in 2008, Fallout 3 is a defining Action/RPG with an expansive open world. As a resident of Vault 101, you venture into the ruins of Washington, facing mutants and bandits. The game's atmosphere, with its retro radio hits and decaying environment, creates a compelling narrative. Fallout 3 is not just a cult classic; it's an enduring favorite that invites repeated exploration.

BioShock

Image: steam.com

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

BioShock may appear to be an action shooter at first glance, but it delves much deeper. Set in a twisted 1960s-inspired world, you'll encounter jazz-filled corridors and mysterious narratives hidden in every corner. The game's depth and eerie atmosphere make it a topic of endless discussion, much like the iconic series Twin Peaks.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Image: steam.com

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

In Red Dead Redemption 2, you embody Arthur Morgan, an outlaw in the Van der Linde gang. The game captures the essence of the Wild West, where survival and morality intertwine. Its vast, living world allows you to explore freely, with every action rippling through the game's ecosystem. The choice between nobility and villainy is yours, and the world remembers.

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 designed for those who relish the challenge of constant failure and perseverance. Set in the beautiful yet merciless kingdom of Drangleic, the game's difficulty is part of its philosophy. The souls of defeated enemies serve as currency for leveling up or purchasing potions, making every death a strategic setback.

Doom Eternal

Image: steam.com

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

Doom Eternal is all about relentless action. Run, shoot, and explode your way through hordes of demons in a game that prioritizes adrenaline-pumping gameplay over narrative depth. With no time for rest, the focus is on brilliant level design and an engaging combat system that keeps your heart racing.

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 deep RPG where you craft your character and form a party to navigate a world filled with dragons, magic, and intrigue. Every decision impacts the story, offering a truly immersive role-playing experience. Loved by players and critics alike, this game offers no "right" answers, only the thrill of shaping your own narrative.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 96
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 11, 2011
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios

Skyrim is legendary for its endless storytelling potential. Even after exploring every corner, there's always more to discover. This adventure lets you set your own pace, whether climbing mountains, delving into dungeons, or battling dragons. Skyrim is a world where you make the rules.

Mass Effect 2

Image: steam.com

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

Mass Effect 2 is a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic exploration. Its thrilling shootouts and dialogue choices determine the fate of entire planets. Whether risking your life for a distant colony or sparking a romance with an alien, the game offers a rich, emotional journey.

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 the virtual city of Los Santos. Whether following the storyline or causing chaos, the game lets you fly with a jetpack, race against cops, or steal cars. Its open-world experience is the franchise's hallmark.

Resident Evil 4

Image: steam.com

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

Released in 2005, Resident Evil 4 revolutionized survival horror by introducing dynamic gameplay. From eerie corridors to intense shootouts and memorable bosses, the game keeps you on edge, blending horror with action seamlessly.

Disco Elysium

Image: steam.com

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

Disco Elysium is about falling and rising, asking questions without easy answers. Set in Revachol, you play a detective solving a murder while confronting personal demons. The game blends noir storytelling with philosophical depth and psychedelic art, offering a unique narrative experience.

RimWorld

Image: steam.com

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

RimWorld challenges you to manage a base under constant threat. From firefighting to rationing food, the game generates stories through absurd situations and tough decisions. Its replayability stems from the endless ways you can navigate survival and morality.

Dwarf Fortress

Image: steam.com

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

Dwarf Fortress, the pioneer of sandbox games, generates entire worlds with rich histories and legends. Its 2022 remake improved the graphics while maintaining its essence. There's no goal to "win," just the challenge of survival and building a fortress amidst epic tales.

World of Warcraft

Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com

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

World of Warcraft offers a vast array of activities, from exploring beautiful landscapes to engaging in epic battles. Its ongoing evolution, community, and deep lore make it a cultural phenomenon. Whether you're a raider or a casual player, WoW has something for everyone.

StarCraft

Image: polygon.com

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

StarCraft, released in 1998, set the standard for real-time strategy games. Its simple premise of building bases and armies belies the depth of strategic planning required. It became a cultural phenomenon, especially in South Korea, where it transformed into a national esport.

Minecraft

Image: minecraft.net

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

Minecraft's world of cubes offers limitless possibilities. Build anything from a cozy home to a sprawling city, or venture into adventure mode to mine resources and battle monsters. Its popularity stems from its freedom and the vibrant community that creates mods and new worlds.

Spore

Image: axios.com

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

Spore is a creative experiment where you design creatures and spaceships, influencing the world around you. Its editors allow for endless creativity, making every playthrough unique. Though some stages may feel simple, Spore's scale and ambition are unmatched.

Warcraft III

Image: warcraft3.blizzard.com

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

Warcraft III introduced heroes to the RTS genre, allowing you to level up and equip unique characters. With four distinct races, each with unique tactics, the game encouraged experimentation. Its map editor also birthed the MOBA genre through Dota.

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 global phenomenon in the MOBA genre, known for its unique characters and universe. Despite recent challenges, its loyal fanbase hopes for a revival. The game's impact extends to the animated series Arcane, which has revolutionized animation.

Undertale

Image: steam.com

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

Undertale, released in 2015, became a phenomenon with its emotional story and innovative mechanics. Your choices genuinely impact the narrative, prompting reflection on violence and morality. Its captivating soundtrack and memorable characters make it a standout title.

Inscryption

Image: steam.com

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

Inscryption offers a unique card roguelike experience in a dark cabin, where unconventional rules challenge you to sacrifice weaker cards for stronger ones. Exploring the cabin reveals puzzles and secrets, with the game constantly shifting styles and breaking the fourth wall.

This War of Mine

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release Date: November 14, 2014
Developer: 11 bit studios

This War of Mine places you in the shoes of ordinary civilians surviving in a war-torn city. By day, you manage resources and morale; by night, you scavenge for supplies. The game forces you to make tough decisions, reflecting the harsh realities of war.

Hearthstone

Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com

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

Hearthstone made card battles accessible and engaging, drawing from the Warcraft universe. Its visual design and music contribute to its charm, making it a popular choice among both newcomers and seasoned players.

Stardew Valley

Image: steam.com

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

Stardew Valley offers a serene farming experience where you inherit an old farm and decide how to spend your days. Created by Eric Barone, this game's pixel art, cozy music, and detailed world make it a comforting retreat you'll want to revisit.

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 an art piece that invites reflection on creativity and burnout. Through a series of mini-games, you explore the works of a fictional developer, guided by a narrator. It's a thought-provoking experience that complements the developer's other work, The Stanley Parable.

The greatest games of all time are not just masterpieces of their genres; they're living stories that unite generations. This list may evolve, but each game has left an indelible mark on the industry and, perhaps, in your heart.