50 Most Popular Video Games of All Time

50 Most Popular Video Games of All Time

These 50 most popular video games of all time have thrilled players worldwide. They have shaped the industry and made a mark on popular culture. These video games have pushed technological boundaries, ignited imaginations, and fostered communities that transcend language and cultural barriers.

Moreover, these video games stand as testaments to the power of storytelling, interactivity, and the boundless creativity that video games can unleash.

In this article, we center on video games such as Minecraft which is loved because of its simplicity. Tetris is another classic honored for its availability on a wide variety of platforms including PlayStation. Grand Theft Auto V captured millions with its cinematic gameplay and satirical storyline. There are more video games to explore, check them out below.

Here are the 50 Most Popular Video Games of All Time.

1. Minecraft (2011)

This video game allows players to explore, gather resources, craft items, and build structures in a randomly generated world. With over 200 million copies sold across mobile, console, and PC platforms, the immense popularity of Minecraft stems from its simplicity, creativity, and replayability.

Furthermore, the video game’s core is the gameplay of mining, crafting, and building in an open environment which gives players endless freedom. Minecraft can be played solo or multiplayer and allows for both creative expression and engineering challenges.

Besides, it is a family-friendly game with cartoonish graphics, appealing to all ages. Its endless possibilities and multiplayer capabilities secure Minecraft the status among the most influential and beloved video games of all time.

Practical Information

Platforms: Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac

Genre: Simulator, Adventure

Rating: IGN 9/10

2. Tetris (1984)

It is an all-time video game because of its simple yet addictive gameplay, its universal appeal, and its widespread availability. This puzzle game allows players to rotate and move falling blocks to create complete lines, which then disappear. The game is easy to learn yet it can be difficult to master. It can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels.

Additionally, Tetris is also popular because it is available on a wide variety of platforms, from home consoles to handheld devices to mobile phones. This makes it accessible to a large audience of gamers, regardless of their gaming preferences.

Being a genre-defining puzzle game, it has influenced countless other games over the years. Thus becoming a classic that continues to be enjoyed by millions of people around the world.

Practical Information

Platforms: Game Boy, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation, Xbox, iOS, Android

Genre: Puzzle

Rating: IMDb 8.5/10

3. Grand Theft Auto V (2013)

The open-world action-adventure game is renowned for its expansive, cinematic gameplay and controversial adult themes. It was released in 2013 across PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and later PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. GTA (Grand Theft Auto) V has sold over 170 million copies worldwide.

Moreover, its huge popularity comes from its vast open-world setting, satirical storyline, customizable characters, and wealth of missions and side activities. Players control three criminals carrying out heists while escaping authorities in the fictional city of Los Santos.

Better still, with its mix of gameplay, over-the-top violence, and dark humor, Grand Theft Auto V pushed boundaries and cemented its place as one of the most impactful games of all time.

Practical Information

Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Genre: Shooter, Action-adventure, open world

Rating: IGN 10/10

4. Super Mario Bros. (1985)

This video game defined the 2D side-scrolling platformer genre when it launched for the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) in 1985. With its bright, cartoonish graphics and accessible gameplay, Super Mario Bros. became a cultural phenomenon that popularized the platforming genre.

While playing, the players guide Mario through the Mushroom Kingdom, dodging enemies, collecting power-ups, and rescuing Princess Peach. Its precise controls, iconic music, and infinitely replayable levels made it an instant classic.

To add on, with over 40 million copies sold, Super Mario Bros. proved Nintendo’s dominance and laid the groundwork for countless platformers to follow. Its revolutionary mechanics and infectious fun solidify its legacy as one of the most influential video games ever made.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo Entertainment System

Genre: 2D platformer

Rating: IMDb 8.9/10

5. Wii Sports (2006)

It became an all-time video game because it made gaming accessible to everyone. With its simple controls and intuitive gameplay, Wii Sports could be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It was also one of the first games to make use of motion controls, which made the experience even more immersive and engaging.

What’s more, it offers a variety of different sports, so there is something for everyone. Players can choose to play tennis, bowling, baseball, golf, or boxing. Also, the multiplayer option makes it a great game to play with friends and family. Players can compete against each other in tournaments or simply play cooperatively.

Wii Sports was released alongside the Wii console in 2006 and was bundled with every system. This helped to ensure that the game was widely played and contributed to its massive success. With at least 82 million copies sold worldwide, it makes this one of the best-selling video games of all time.

Practical Information

Platforms: Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch

Genre: Sports

Rating: IGN 7.5/10, Game Spot 7.8/10

6. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)

This video game revolutionized 3D action-adventure games when it launched for the Nintendo 64 in 1998. Players guide Link through dungeons, solve puzzles, battle enemies, and travel through time in the vast world of Hyrule.

Ocarina of Time perfected gameplay with its innovative targeting system, lock-on camera, and influential use of music. Its time-shifting story, puzzle-filled dungeons, and sense of adventure made it an instant win. Ocarina of Time is regarded as one of the greatest and most important video games ever made.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo 64

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 9.6/10

7. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)

A video game that propelled open-world fantasy into the mainstream when it launched in 2011 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. Skyrim‘s lush, snow-covered region of Tamriel provides an immersive setting for players to explore at their own pace.

Subsequently, with complete freedom for players to customize skills and abilities, tackle quests in any order, and lose countless hours simply wandering the kingdom, made Skyrim an exploratory fantasy experience. Its limitless gameplay, immense modified community, and enduring atmosphere earn Skyrim a reputation as a benchmark open-world RPG (role-playing game).

Practical Information

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

Genre: Open-world RPG

Rating: IGN 9.5/10, IMDb 9.3/10

8. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)

It is appreciated as an all-time video game because it excels in many aspects of game design. It features a massive open world that is both beautiful and packed with content, a compelling story with memorable characters, and a deep and rewarding RPG (role-playing game) system. The game also offers a wide variety of gameplay activities, from combat and exploration to side quests and mini-games.

Practical Information

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Genre: Action role-playing game (RPG)

Rating: IGN 9.3/10, Steam 10/10

9. Super Mario 64 (1996)

This groundbreaking 3D platformer is acclaimed as an all-time video game because of the following features:

• It was a groundbreaking 3D platformer that changed the genre.
• It consisted of innovative gameplay mechanics, such as analog control and power-ups that changed Mario’s abilities.
• It has charming characters, a colorful world, and catchy music.
• It enjoyed commercial success, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo 64, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch Online

Genre: 3D platformer

Rating: IGN 9.8/10, IMDb 9.1/10

10. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)

The respect of this all-time video game comes from its open-world design where players can climb any mountain, swim across any river, and glide through any forest. This gives the participants a sense of freedom and discovery.

Additionally, Breath of the Wild has endless experimentation and creativity. Players can use the game’s tools and weapons in unexpected ways to solve puzzles and defeat enemies, leading to emergent gameplay moments.

There is also the sense of wonder that allows players to access hidden secrets and surprises. Thus they are constantly rewarded for their curiosity, whether it’s finding a new shrine, discovering a hidden Korok seed, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U

Genre: Action-adventure, open-world

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 9.4/10

11. Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

The incredible attention to detail, immersive open world, and complex story of Red Dead Redemption 2 makes it an all-time video game. It explores a truly living world with every NPC (non-player character) having their unique routine and the environment constantly changing. The game’s story is also complex and well-written boosting its significance.

Moreover, this video game is inclusive and has room for various preferences. Whether you’re a fan of action, adventure, or simply exploring a beautiful open world, Red Dead Redemption 2 has it all. The game also has a thriving multiplayer community, which adds to its long-term appeal as a popular game.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Genre: Open-world action-adventure

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 9.4/10

12. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2014)

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an all-time video game because it is a polished and enjoyable kart racing game with a wide variety of content that appeals to players of all ages and skill levels. The game features a large roster of playable characters, over 40 tracks, and a variety of game modes, including Grand Prix, Battle Mode, and Time Trial.

To boot, the video game is also known for its bright and colorful visuals, catchy music, and tight controls. Yet it is also a great game to play with friends and family.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo Switch

Genre: Kart racing

Rating: IGN 9.3/10, OpenCritic 92%

13. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020)

This social simulation video game is famed as a masterpiece because of its wholesome and relaxing gameplay. It centers on creativity, exploration, and relaxation. Hence players can spend their time fishing, bug catching, decorating their island, and interacting with their animal villagers. The game’s peaceful atmosphere and low-stress gameplay make it a popular choice for players of all ages.

Furthermore, it is endlessly replayable and it can be enjoyed for countless hours since there is always something new to do. The game also receives regular updates from Nintendo, adding new content and features to keep players engaged. It also promotes a sense of community and players share their island creations, trade items, and visit each other’s islands.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo Switch

Genre: Social simulation

Rating: IGN 9/10, OpenCritic 90%

14. Elden Ring (2022)

Elden Ring brought the challenging ‘Souls-like’ formula into the open world in 2022, earning critical and popular acclaim. Its vast map of The Lands Between provides a chance to explore on foot or horseback.

On top of that, this video game modernized the genre with its quests and improved accessibility while retaining punishing combat. Its mysterious concepts, threatening setting, and satisfaction of overcoming challenges made the game a hit that set new heights for fantasy open-world design.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC

Genre: Action RPG (role-playing game), open world

Rating: IGN 10/10, Steam 9/10

15. Pokémon Red and Blue (1996)

They are the first versions of the Pokémon video game series. They are ranked as all-time video games because they brought a new gameplay formula that combined elements of role-playing games, collecting games, and social gaming.

Players travel through a vast open world, catching and training Pokémon, which they then use to battle other trainers. The game’s multiplayer features, such as trading and battling, allowed players to connect with their friends in a new and exciting way.

To add on, the game appealed to a wide range of audiences. The game’s cute and charming Pokémon designs attracted the younger players, while the challenging gameplay and strategic depth appealed to older players. The game’s world was also incredibly immersive and engaging, with a rich backstory and mythology.

Practical Information

Platforms: Game Boy, Nintendo 3DS, Virtual Console

Genre: Role-playing game (RPG)

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 8.8/10

16. Fortnite (2017)

This video game was fresh breath to the battle royale genre, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. Thus setting it apart as an all-time video game. It is also a popular game because of the following reasons:

• Free-to-play – Fortnite is free to play on all major platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of gamers.
• Cross-play – it supports cross-play between all platforms, allowing players to play with their friends regardless of what device they are using.
• Simple to learn – its gameplay is easy to pick up, only that mastering the building mechanic and other advanced techniques takes time and practice.
• Frequent updates and events – Epic Games regularly releases new content for Fortnite, including new weapons, skins, and game modes. The game also hosts major events throughout the year, such as concerts and collaborations with other popular brands.
• Cultural phenomenon – Fortnite has become a major cultural phenomenon, with its dances, emotes, and in-game events becoming popular memes and drawing millions of viewers.

Practical Information

Platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.

Genre: Battle royale

Rating: IGN 9.6/10, Common Sense Media 3/5

17. Grand Theft Auto (GTA) IV (2008)

The stunning graphics and open world made GTA IV one of the most visually impressive games of its time, with a detailed and believable recreation of New York City. The open world was also vast and filled with things to do, from exploring side missions to simply driving around and taking in the sights.

Over and above that, the compelling story and characters featured a dark and gritty story that explored themes of immigration, crime, and the American Dream. The characters were also well-developed and relatable. Also, the innovative gameplay made GTA IV a trailblazer of authentic gameplay features like the cover-based shooting system.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows

Genre: Open-world action-adventure, Sandbox

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 8.9/10

18. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)

This all-time video game is appreciated for its gritty realism, innovative gameplay, and memorable campaign. It was praised by critics and players alike for its immersive graphics, intense gunplay, and diverse multiplayer modes. The game prides itself in more than 30 million copies sold and is available on a wide range of platforms.

Practical Information

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Genre: First-person shooter

Rating: IGN 8.2/10, IMDb 8.4/10

19. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004)

This video game stands out as an all-time video game for many reasons. Since its release in 2004, it remains popular today, due to its massive open world, diverse cast of characters, and engaging story. The game also features a wide variety of side activities, from gang warfare to lowrider racing, giving players plenty to do even when they’re not following the main story.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 2, Xbox, Windows, iOS, Android, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox 360, macOS, Oculus Quest VR

Genre: Open-world action-adventure

Rating: IGN 9.9/10, IMDb 9.4/10

20. Super Mario World (1990)

Super Mario World is an all-time video game because it is a perfectly crafted platformer with innovative gameplay, iconic visuals, and a timeless soundtrack. It is also incredibly accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels.

Practical Information

Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, Super NES Mini, Nintendo Switch Online

Genre: Platformer

Rating: IGN 8.5/10, GameSpot 92%

21. Halo 3 (2007)

Halo 3 raised the bar for online first-person shooters when it launched in 2007 for the Xbox 360. As the epic conclusion to the original Halo trilogy, Halo 3 refined the series’ gameplay with new weapons, vehicles, and physics.

To boot, its cinematic story, vast multiplayer modes, and seamless integration with Xbox Live made it the definitive social FPS (Frames Per Second) experience. Halo 3 drove Xbox 360 adoption and established console shooters as a dominant genre thanks to its gripping story, addictive multiplayer, and impact on online gaming.

Practical Information

Platform: Xbox 360

Genre: First-person shooter

Rating: Common Sense Media 5/5, IMDb 8.8/10

22. Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)

This platformer video game came with speedy gameplay and colorful levels. Players control the superfast blue hedgehog, Sonic as he races through loops, collects rings, and defeats the evil Dr. Robotnik (Eggman).

Additionally, with its smooth animations, momentum-based physics, and catchy music, Sonic became Sega’s killer app against Nintendo. Its sense of speed, style, and irreverent attitude made Sonic a beloved source of luck that defined a generation of fast-paced platformers.

Practical Information

Platforms: Sega Genesis

Genre: 2D platformer

Rating: IMDb 8.1/10, Common Sense Media 4/5

23. The Last of Us (2013)

The Last of Us was a game changer for narrative-driven games when it launched in 2013 for PlayStation 3. Its emotionally gripping story follows two survivors trekking across a post-apocalyptic United States.

Thus with its relatable characters, tense combat, and grounded setting, the video game pushed the artistic boundaries of video game storytelling. Hence its touching generation-defining story makes this an all-time video game.

Practical Information

Platform: PlayStation 3

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 9.7/10

24. Dark Souls (2011)

This all-time video game is popular because it defined a new era of challenging action RPGs (role-playing games) when it launched in 2011 on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Its Gothic world provided an immersive setting for precise, high-risk combat. Dark Souls perfected hardcore gameplay with punishing enemies, opaque storytelling, and an unforgiving learning curve that tested skills.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Genre: Action RPG (role-playing game)

Rating: IGN 9/10, IMDb 9.1/10

25. Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)

This all-time video game brought fresh ideas to the first-person shooter genre with innovative gameplay, an immersive world, and iconic characters. The game’s popularity is due to its perfect balance of action, exploration, and storytelling, as well as its groundbreaking multiplayer mode.

Practical Information

Platforms: Xbox, PC, Mac OS X

Genre: First-person shooter

Rating: IGN 9.7/10, IMDb 8.8/10

26. World of Warcraft (2004)

World of Warcraft dominated the multiplayer online genre when it launched on PC in 2004. The fantasy world of Azeroth provided the backdrop for millions to quest and raid together. World of Warcraft became a global sensation thanks to its addictive progression, social effects, weapons, constant updates, and content. It redefined multiplayer gaming for a generation.

Practical Information

Platform: Windows, macOS

Genre: Multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG)

Rating: IGN 9.1/10, PC Gamer 94%

27. Doom (1993)

This video game became one of the pioneers of the first-person shooter genre when it launched on PC in 1993, securing a place as an all-time video game. Its fast-paced gameplay set in a Martian space station overrun by demons boosted its prominence.

Moreover, the multiplayer option added to the game’s popularity. Its immersive 3D visuals, adrenaline-pumping action, wide open levels, and graphic violence made Doom a first-rate video game that has influenced other games in the genre since.

Practical Information

Platform: PC

Genre: First-person shooter

Rating: Steam 10/10, IMDb 8.6/10

28. Final Fantasy VII (1997)

This video game turned around the RPG (role-playing game) storytelling with its epic, cinematic scope when it launched for the PlayStation in 1997. Its expansive 3D world, memorable characters, and movie-quality scenes captivated fans. Final Fantasy VII took the franchise mainstream thanks to its ambitious moving story, captivating soundtrack, and status as a defining entry in the PlayStation library.

Practical Information

Platform: PlayStation

Genre: RPG (role-playing game)

Rating: IMDb 9.5/10, GameSpot 9.5/10

29. Portal (2007)

Portal redefined puzzle games with its ingenious teleportation mechanics when it launched in 2007 on PC, PS3, and Xbox 360. Using the handheld portal gun, players solve increasingly complex 3D puzzles by creating linked portals to maneuver through test chambers.

On top of that, Portal delivered an innovative concept executed to perfection, with the humorous yet disruptive AI, GLaDOS pushing players through difficult challenges.

Practical Information

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, macOS, Android, PlayStation 3, Linux, Xbox 360, Classic Mac OS

Genre: Puzzle-platformer

Rating: IGN 8.2/10, IMDb 9.1/10

30. Half-Life 2 (2004)

This video game is set in the dystopian City 17, where players control Gordon Freeman against an oppressive alien regime. Its gameplay, memorable gravity gun, compelling characters, immersive world, and thought-provoking storyline earn it a place among the most popular video games of all time.

Practical Information

Platform: Android, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Xbox 360, Linux, PlayStation 3, Xbox, IBM PC compatible, Mac operating systems

Genre: First-person shooter

Rating: IGN 9.7/10, IMDb 9.4/10

31. Mortal Kombat (since 1992)

This timeless classic in the fighting game genre captivates players with its combat, iconic characters, and thrilling fatalities. Its enduring popularity stems from its unique blend of accessibility and depth, appealing to both casual gamers and competitive enthusiasts.

Besides, the franchise has expanded across many platforms, including consoles, handheld devices, and mobile devices, ensuring its accessibility to a wide range of players.

Practical Information

Platform: Arcade, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, Game Boy, Game Gear, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS, iOS, Android

Genre: Fighting game

Rating: Google 4.8/5

32. Tomb Raider series (first release 1996)

It is an iconic action-adventure game that has thrilled players for decades. Its innovative 3D graphics, challenging puzzles, and fascinating storyline have made it a beloved all-time video game. Lara Croft, the game’s fearless protagonist, has become a symbol of female empowerment, and adventure. Tomb Raider‘s enduring popularity is a testament to its groundbreaking gameplay, memorable characters, and timeless appeal.

Practical Information

Platform: PlayStation, PC, Sega Saturn, MS-DOS, N-Gage, Game Boy Color

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: Steam 10/10, Common Sense Media 5/5

33. FIFA Soccer (since 1993)

EA Sports FIFA Soccer simulates the beautiful game like no other franchise since its first entry in 1993. With official licensing, realistic gameplay, and annual updates, FIFA captures the passion and competition of real-world football.

Over and above that, its polished presentation and gameplay refinements year-over-year have made FIFA Soccer the definitive virtual soccer experience across generations of platforms. It has sold at least 325 million copies as of 2023.

Practical Information

Platforms: Multiple

Genre: Sports simulation

34. Super Mario Odyssey (2017)

Super Mario Odyssey is an all-time video game due to its innovative gameplay, diverse worlds, and charming characters. Players can capture and control various objects and enemies, adding a new layer of challenge and creativity to the platforming experience. The game’s open-ended design encourages exploration and discovery, while its vibrant visuals and catchy soundtrack keep players engaged.

Practical Information

Platform: Nintendo Switch

Genre: Platform game, Action-adventure game

Rating: IGN 10/10, IMDb 9.1/10

35. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)

This video game prides itself in an expansive overworld, multi-floor dungeons, and polished gameplay that defined the series for years. It introduced now-classic items like the hookshot seamlessly blending action, exploration, and puzzle-solving. This ensured players were spoiled for choice with overflowing secrets, surprises, and unparalleled adventure.

Practical Information

Platform: Super Nintendo

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: IMDb 9.3/10, IGDB.com 9.3/10

36. Metal Gear Solid (1998)

This all-time video game earns such a reputation because of its gameplay, cinematic cutscenes, and complex narrative that explores themes of war, nuclear rapid increase, and espionage. It is often credited with popularizing the stealth-action genre and has been praised for its innovative use of technology, such as voice acting and motion capture.

Practical Information

Platform: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch

Genre: Action-adventure stealth

Rating: IMDb 9.6/10, IGN 9.8/10

37. Overwatch (2016)

Overwatch‘s enduring popularity stems from its unique blend of fast-paced action, diverse characters, and strategic gameplay. The game’s vibrant cast of heroes, each with distinct abilities and personalities, allows players to find their niche and contribute to their team’s success.

Furthermore, its objective-based modes foster teamwork and strategy, while its competitive nature encourages players to hone their skills. The game’s accessibility and constant updates have kept players engaged for years, making it an all-time classic.

Practical Information

Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows

Genre: First-person shooter, Team-based multiplayer, Hero shooter

Rating: IMDb 8.3/10, IGN 9.4/10

38. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006)

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is an all-time video game due to its innovative open-world design, immersive storytelling with unique personalities of characters, and endless replayability. It brought a shift in the action RPG (role-playing game) genre and set a new standard for sandbox-style games.

Practical Information

Platform: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3

Genre: Open-world action RPG

Rating: IMDb 8.9/10, Common Sense Media 5/5

39. Bioshock (2007)

Bioshock delivered an unforgettable futuristic setting and thought-provoking narrative when it launched in 2007 for Xbox 360 and PC. This set it apart as an all-time video game. The video game is set in the underwater city of Rapture.

Subsequently, players use weapons and special powers to survive horrific situations. Bioshock built a haunting, morally ambiguous world that questioned player agency in video game storytelling through its ambitious genre-bending design.

Practical Information

Platforms: Xbox 360, PC

Genre: First-person shooter, immersive simulation

Rating: IMDb 9.1/10, IGN 9.7/10

40. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018)

This video game ranks among the all-time video games due to its expansive roster of iconic characters, diverse gameplay modes, and engaging competitive scenes. With every Nintendo character imaginable and popular guest appearances, the game offers endless replayability and a unique blend of fighting and platforming mechanics.

Practical Information

Platforms: Nintendo Switch

Genre: Fighting game, Platform game

Rating: IGN 9.4/10, IMDb 8.9/10

41. God of War (2018)

It is one of the all-time video games because of its interesting narrative, stunning visuals, and deep-down combat. The game smoothly blends mythology with complex characters, creating an emotionally resonant journey. The cinematic camerawork and flawless transitions between gameplay and cutscenes immerse players in the unique world of Midgard.

Furthermore, the combat system is both challenging and rewarding, encouraging players to master a variety of moves and strategies. The game’s popularity is a result of its appeal to a wide range of players, whether they are fans of action-adventure games, mythology, or simply compelling storytelling.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: IGN 10/10, Common Sense Media 5/5

42. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End (2016)

It is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made due to its story, cinematic visuals, and perfected gameplay. It masterfully creates a fusion of action adventure, puzzles, and exploration, taking players on a thrilling journey through exotic locations. The game’s emotional depth and character development further elevate the experience, making it an unforgettable masterwork.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4

Genre: Action-adventure, puzzle, platforming, third-person shooter, stealth

Rating: IGN 9/10, OpenCritic 93%

43. Spider-Man (2018)

Marvel’s Spider-Man is an all-time video game that is honored because of its compelling narrative, the web-swinging concepts within, and the exciting combat system. It also received widespread acclaim for its well-developed characters and immersive open-world environment.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: IGN 8.7/10, Common Sense Media 5/5

44. Horizon Zero Dawn (2017)

This video game stands as a landmark open-world action RPG (role-playing game) that captivated players with its post-apocalyptic setting, compelling narrative, and innovative mix of varied combat and stealth elements.

Additionally, it garnered critical acclaim for its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and memorable protagonist, Aloy, a skilled hunter in a world overrun by robot creatures.

Practical Information

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows

Genre: Action role-playing, open world

Rating: IGN 9.3/10, OpenCritic 89%

45. Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga (2007)

Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga is an all-time video game due to its family-friendly humor, and outstanding gameplay that appeals to players of all ages. Its ability to combine action-adventure, puzzle-solving, and exploration within the beloved Star Wars universe has made it a timeless classic.

Practical Information

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, Nintendo DS, Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

Genre: Action-adventure, Puzzle, Exploration

Rating: IGN 8/10, Common Sense Media 4/5

46. Resident Evil 4 (2005)

As one of the greatest video games of all time, it’s acknowledged for its authentic gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. It introduced a dynamic over-the-shoulder camera perspective, turning around the third-person shooter genre. The game’s immersive atmosphere, engaging characters, and pure combat mechanics intrigued players worldwide.

Practical Information

Platforms: GameCube, Wii, Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android, macOS, iOS, Android

Genre: Survival Horror

Rating: IGN 9.5/10, IMDb 9.2/10

47. Mass Effect 2 (2010)

This is an action role-playing game that caught the attention of players with its narrative, diverse characters, and engaging gameplay. Its perfect combat system, improved dialogue options, and enhanced exploration choices solidified its place as a beloved classic.

Practical Information

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3

Genre: Action role-playing game (RPG)

Rating: IGN 9.6/10, Common Sense Media 5/5

48. Fallout 3 (2008)

Fallout 3 is an all-time video game due to its immersive open-world, charming storyline, and creative role-playing elements. Players take a trip through a wasteland, encountering diverse characters, engaging in tactical combat, and making impactful decisions that shape their narrative experience.

Moreover, its popularity stems from the endless freedom it grants players to explore, customize, and interact with the game world, creating a unique and memorable experience.

Practical Information

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Genre: Action Role-Playing Game (RPG)

Rating: IGN 9.6/10, IMDb 9.1/10

49. The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (2011)

The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, released in 2011, improved on the original Witcher game to deliver a landmark RPG (role-playing game). Set in the dark fantasy world of Geralt of Rivia, it featured a mature, morally ambiguous narrative with player choice driving the story. Combat was strategic and challenging, requiring preparation and skill to take down foes.

What’s more, The Witcher 2 stood out for its technical prowess, with excellent graphics and animation that brought the game’s world to life. Choices branched the story into entirely different second acts, providing replayability. Its adult themes, impactful decisions, responsive combat, and beautiful visuals made The Witcher 2 a modern RPG classic.

Practical Information

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, macOS, Linux, Classic Mac OS

Genre: Action Role-Playing Game (RPG)

Rating: IGN 9/10, Steam 9/10

50. Super Metroid (1994)

Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Metroid is the third game in the Metroid series and a genre-defining masterpiece. It perfected the exploratory platforming and action gameplay of the original Metroid and Metroid II into a more immersive, cinematic experience.

Furthermore, the video game drops players into the sprawling, interconnected halls of planet Zebes and encourages unpredictable exploration and progression. The world is moody and atmospheric, full of hidden power-ups, foreboding tunnels, and tense boss battles. The controls are tight and responsive, letting players platform, shoot, and access new abilities smoothly.

Super Metroid pioneered environmental storytelling through its lonely, sci-fi setting. Its open-ended structure gave players the freedom to choose their path. These design elements influenced many future games and exemplified fantastic 16-bit game design.

Better still, even today, Super Metroid remains popular for its massive world, smart gameplay systems, and brilliant fusion of action, adventure, and exploration. It is rightfully considered one of the greatest and most influential video games ever made.

Practical Information

Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, Wii U, New Nintendo 3DS

Genre: Action-adventure, Metroidvania

Rating: IGN 9.5/10, IMDb 9.1/10

In the ever-evolving world of gaming, these 50 most popular video games of all time have left a mark on the industry. They’ve entertained millions but also pushed the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and technology.

While new classics continue to emerge, these games serve as a testament to the enduring power of the medium. Whether you’ve explored distant galaxies, fought epic battles, or delved into rich narratives, these games have shaped the gaming landscape, defining an era of interactive entertainment.