Top 30 Greatest Games of All Time

Some games, like cherished friends, remain with us for years; their music echoing in our memories, their moments of triumph and defeat still sending shivers down our spines. Others blaze across the gaming landscape like meteors, setting new standards and leaving an indelible mark. But how do we define the "best"? For some, it's a nostalgic childhood adventure; for others, a multiplayer masterpiece that united thousands. This curated list features the greatest games of all time, their status validated by the most respected ratings.

Explore our genre-specific game selections:

**Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformer**

Table of Contents

Half-Life 2 | Portal 2 | Diablo II | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Sid Meier's Civilization V | Fallout 3 | BioShock | Red Dead Redemption 2 | Dark Souls 2 | Doom Eternal | Baldur's Gate 3 | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim | Mass Effect 2 | Grand Theft Auto V | Resident Evil 4 | Disco Elysium | RimWorld | Dwarf Fortress | World of Warcraft | StarCraft | Minecraft | Spore | Warcraft III | League of Legends | Undertale | Inscryption | This War of Mine | Hearthstone | Stardew Valley | The Beginner's Guide

Half-Life 2

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

Valve's legendary 2004 first-person shooter casts you as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist thrust into an alien-occupied world. Beyond shooting, you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and master the iconic gravity gun. The gripping narrative and immersive atmosphere, coupled with groundbreaking physics for its time, create an experience that remains compelling today. Enemies are intelligent, flanking and surprising you, adding a layer of strategic depth.

Portal 2

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Metascore: 95 Download: Steam Release Date: April 19, 2011 Developer: Valve

A delightful blend of mind-bending puzzles and sharp wit, Portal 2 features the sarcastic GLaDOS and the endearingly annoying Wheatley. Their interactions are a highlight, leaving a lasting impression. Each level introduces increasingly complex puzzles and new mechanics, like gels altering surface properties and light bridges adding strategic layers. The addition of multiplayer further enhances replayability.

Diablo II

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

Diablo II isn't just a game; it's a cultural touchstone. Blizzard's 2000 ARPG redefined the genre, setting a benchmark that still resonates. Its dark, gothic world is brimming with secrets, challenging players to battle monsters, collect loot, and grow stronger. The addictive gameplay loop, fueled by constant upgrades and rewards, continues to captivate players, leading to numerous re-releases, mods, and a dedicated community.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

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Metascore: 92 Download: Steam Release Date: May 18, 2015 Developer: CD PROJEKT RED

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a sprawling, richly detailed universe. As Geralt of Rivia, you'll embark on a captivating journey filled with swordplay, magic, and morally ambiguous choices. The vast world and intricately woven quests offer a compelling narrative, unforgettable characters, and an atmosphere that keeps you fully immersed. Its critical acclaim and numerous awards solidify its status as a masterpiece.

Sid Meier's Civilization V

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

Civilization V's enduring popularity stems from its ability to transport players through millennia, from primitive tools to space exploration. Build cities, manage resources, and forge alliances or wage war. Each playthrough offers a unique experience due to the randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations, making it endlessly replayable. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" added even more depth and complexity.

Fallout 3

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

Bethesda's 2008 open-world Action/RPG remains a timeless classic. Emerging from Vault 101, you'll explore the ruins of Washington D.C., encountering mutants, bandits, and complete freedom of choice. The game's retro soundtrack, atmospheric ruins, and pervasive sense of radiation create a unique and unforgettable experience. Fallout 3's lasting appeal lies in its immersive world and the freedom it offers players.

BioShock

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

BioShock transcends the typical action shooter. Set in a distorted 1960s underwater city, the game's unsettling atmosphere and mysterious narrative create a lasting impact. Every detail, from the environment to the cryptic inscriptions, contributes to the unsettling story. The game's ambiguous nature and thought-provoking themes continue to spark discussion among players.

Red Dead Redemption 2

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

Rockstar Games created a meticulously crafted world in Red Dead Redemption 2. As Arthur Morgan, you'll experience the dying days of the Wild West, facing moral dilemmas and navigating a chaotic world. The game's massive, immersive environment allows for hours of exploration and side quests, alongside a compelling main storyline. Your choices shape Arthur's destiny and the world around him.

Dark Souls 2

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

Dark Souls II is a challenging but rewarding experience. Its brutal difficulty is integral to its design, forcing players to learn from their mistakes and adapt their strategies. The beautiful yet unforgiving world of Drangleic offers a unique blend of exploration, combat, and lore, captivating players with its dark atmosphere and challenging gameplay.

Doom Eternal

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

Doom Eternal is pure, unadulterated adrenaline. Run, gun, and explode your way through hordes of demons in a relentless and exhilarating experience. The game prioritizes fast-paced action and brutal combat, offering a visceral and satisfying gameplay loop. Its focus on intense action and stylish combat makes it a standout in the first-person shooter genre.

Baldur's Gate 3

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Metascore: 96 Download: Steam Release Date: August 3, 2023 Developer: Larian Studios

Baldur's Gate 3 is a deep and engaging RPG where player choices significantly impact the narrative. Create your character, assemble your party, and embark on an epic adventure filled with dragons, magic, and intricate dialogue. The game's emphasis on player agency and branching narratives creates a unique and replayable experience.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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

Skyrim's legendary status is well-earned. Its vast and immersive world offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Fight dragons, explore dungeons, and forge your own path. The game's open-ended nature and freedom of choice allow for countless hours of gameplay and replayability.

Mass Effect 2

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

Mass Effect 2 is a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic exploration. The game's gripping narrative, memorable characters, and impactful choices create a deeply emotional experience. The combination of thrilling combat, meaningful dialogue, and tough decisions makes it a standout in the RPG genre.

Grand Theft Auto V

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Metascore: 97 Download: Steam Release Date: September 17, 2013 Developer: Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto V offers unparalleled freedom in its open-world sandbox. Whether you follow the main storyline or create your own chaos, the game's vast city and diverse activities provide endless entertainment. The game's humor, freedom, and diverse gameplay make it a long-lasting favorite.

Resident Evil 4

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

Resident Evil 4 revolutionized survival horror with its dynamic gameplay and memorable boss encounters. The game seamlessly blends tense exploration, intense shootouts, and puzzle-solving, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Its innovative gameplay and lasting impact on the genre make it a true classic.

Disco Elysium

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

Disco Elysium is a unique RPG that prioritizes narrative and character development over traditional gameplay mechanics. Its unconventional approach to storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and stunning visuals create a memorable and unforgettable experience. The game’s focus on internal conflict and philosophical questions makes it a truly unique entry.

RimWorld

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

RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator where you'll face constant challenges and unexpected events. Manage resources, maintain your colonists' mental health, and make difficult decisions to ensure survival. The game's unpredictable nature and emergent storytelling create a unique and replayable experience.

Dwarf Fortress

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

Dwarf Fortress is a complex and highly detailed simulation game that has influenced many other titles. Its intricate world generation, deep mechanics, and emergent gameplay create a unique and endlessly replayable experience. The game's unique style and challenging gameplay have garnered a dedicated following.

World of Warcraft

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

World of Warcraft's enduring popularity stems from its vast world, engaging quests, and thriving community. Explore Azeroth, complete quests, battle monsters, and participate in raids and PvP. The game's rich lore, constant updates, and strong community make it a long-lasting MMO classic.

StarCraft

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

StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy games. Its strategic depth and competitive gameplay have made it a lasting esports phenomenon. The game's simple premise—build a base, gather resources, and defeat your opponent—belies its strategic complexity and enduring appeal.

Minecraft

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

Minecraft's blocky world offers unparalleled creative freedom. Build anything you can imagine, explore vast landscapes, and battle monsters. Its simple yet engaging gameplay and endless possibilities have made it a global phenomenon.

Spore

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

Spore's unique creature creator and expansive gameplay allowed players to shape their own unique evolutionary path. While some stages were criticized for simplicity, the ambitious scope and creative tools made it a memorable and influential title.

Warcraft III

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

Warcraft III introduced hero units to the RTS genre, adding a new layer of strategic depth. Its memorable characters, engaging campaign, and influential map editor, which birthed Dota, cemented its place in gaming history.

League of Legends

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

League of Legends is a massively popular MOBA with a rich history and dedicated fanbase. Despite recent challenges, its impact on the gaming industry and its influence on other media, like the Arcane series, are undeniable.

Undertale

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

Undertale's unique gameplay mechanics and emotional storytelling created a cultural phenomenon. The game's innovative approach to combat and its exploration of pacifism and violence resonated deeply with players.

Inscryption

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

Inscryption is a unique and meta-narrative card game that constantly subverts expectations. Its blend of card-battling, exploration, and unsettling atmosphere creates a truly unforgettable experience.

This War of Mine

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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 narrative create a powerful and unforgettable experience.

Hearthstone

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

Hearthstone's accessible gameplay and charming visuals made it a widely popular collectible card game. Its connection to the Warcraft universe and engaging gameplay loop made it a global success.

Stardew Valley

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

Stardew Valley's charming pixel art, relaxing gameplay, and engaging community have made it a beloved farming simulator. Its simple yet satisfying gameplay loop and heartwarming story create a truly special experience.

The Beginner's Guide

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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 explores themes of creativity, burnout, and the human condition. Its minimalist approach and emotional narrative create a powerful and reflective experience.

The greatest games transcend their genres; they are living narratives that connect generations. While this list may evolve, each game has indelibly marked the industry's history and, perhaps, your heart.