Epic Adventures: The Ultimate Countdown of 50 Timeless Video Games

During the Covid-19 pandemic, when the world seemed bleak, Animal Crossing: New Horizons offered a whimsically adorable alternative. In its inaugural year on the market, over 30 million people acquired the social simulation game, ushering in a new era of “cozy gaming” with the delightful, anthropomorphic creatures utilizing New Horizons’ customizable island as a whimsical paradise. 

Animal Crossing titles have consistently enabled users to craft charming communities, yet the multitude of features in New Horizons, ranging from fruit harvesting in complex patterns to the option of visiting a friend’s area for real-life trading, turned the game into a worldwide sensation by bridging connections between individuals, both figuratively and literally. Even if you weren’t traveling to others’ islands via a small aircraft or utilizing your virtual abode to facilitate live-streamed interviews, New Horizons emerged at a moment when everyone was yearning for the kind of uplifting interactions it provided — whether it was engaging with an endearing raccoon or sharing tales of him with friends. -Ashley Bardhan

Live. Perish. Recur. Video games frequently reduce to this straightforward concept, and no category illustrates that cycle more effectively than “roguelikes,” which generally require players to conquer all stages in a single attempt or be sent back to the beginning. But what if the battle encompassed more than just the thrill of victory? What if the Sisyphean endeavor held a more profound significance? That’s the allure of Hades.

Assigning players the character of Zagreus, the brooding progeny of the Ruler of the Underworld defying his father, the game compels you to strive for an escape from Hell each night, supported by an extended lineage of Greek deities and mythological figures. Although each demise necessitates a complete campaign restart, there’s a persistent feeling of advancement, not only in enhancing Zag’s skills for the forthcoming endeavor but also in enriching his newly formed bonds with his relatives.

Hades employs the conventional structure of gaming to impart a profoundly emotional narrative that unfolds over countless hours, seamlessly blending storytelling with the immediate actions of control. –Christopher Cruz

The 2D side-scrolling game Castlevania: Symphony of the Night ought to have been obsolete when it was released, yet it has instead become as timeless as the scowling Dracula featured within it. By enhancing the monster-hunting framework of previous Castlevania entries while abandoning its linear level structure for a constantly changing puzzle-like castle, the game adopted the finest elements of Metroid to produce a title that delivers consistent surprises with each playthrough. With customizable equipment and RPG components, it was more strategic and contemplative than its predecessors.

The grim familial conflict at the heart of its narrative centers on the young half-vampire Alucard and is as enchanting as it is suspenseful; “You have been cursed ever since you lost your ability to love,” Alucard reproaches Dracula, his progenitor. However, their struggle would not be as poignant without Symphony of the Night‘s captivating world that is so enjoyable to traverse, you’ll find yourself eager to relive the experience as the castle turns upside down for a more challenging second playthrough following the completion of the first. -A.B.

On a dreary and tempestuous night, a voice echoes amidst the darkness; a hero heeds the summons. It’s in this moment that The Legend of Zelda genuinely commences. Though it stands as the third installment in the series, A Link to the Past marks the point where Nintendo’sadventure series established its identity, solidifying the dungeon exploration, item-collecting framework that has become synonymous with the franchise.

Based on exploration, which consistently feels propelled by astute self-discovery, A Link to the Past encourages players to unravel an unending array of puzzles regarding its vast world, deciding their next moves and actions. It’s just obscure enough to be rewarding without necessitating a game walkthrough. While subsequent titles would be praised for diverging from convention, this particular game is the one that established the standard, both for its own franchise and numerous imitators. -C.C.

It’s irrelevant how adept you are at League of Legends; you’re perpetually one error away from defeat. This multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) has risen to excellence in esports based on a straightforward concept: Select a champion, enhance your strength, and collaborate with your comrades to dismantle the opposing base. Drawing influence from Dota, which began as a mod for Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, the captivating cycle of League resides in its simplicity of grasping, yet complexity in mastery, enriched by an overwhelming array of over 160 champions, each possessing unique powers.

The game’s acclaim has sparked multiple transmedia projects, from spin-off titles like Legends of Runeterra to supplementary literature that expands its world — the most prominent being Netflix’s Arcane, an artistic triumph and the most costly animated series ever produced. Fifteen years later, League‘s allure remains intact, its intricate universe enticing players to persevere even after a loss, simply to dwell longer in it. -Diego Argüello

Few games can boast the presence of Snoop Dogg, Darth Vader, Spider-Man, and Goku inhabiting the same realm. Since its launch in 2017, Fortnite has evolved into a colossal blend of industry collaborations and pop culture nods. Most recognized for its battle royale feature, where 100 individuals land on an island and vie against one another to remain the last player standing, Fortnite amassed over $9 billion in 2018 and 2019 combined. 

In the ensuing years, musicians like Ariana Grande and Metallica have held in-game concerts, while cinematic figures such as the MCU antagonist Thanos have wreaked havoc on the battle royale island. Beyond the novelty aspect, Fortnite is an exceptional shooter that continually experiments with new concepts each season. Plus, you can jump in without spending a single dollar, unless you wish to adorn yourself as one of your beloved characters, that is. -D.A.

While it draws from the foundation of the Dark Souls franchise, there truly isn’t any other game comparable to Elden Ring. FromSoftware’s stark open-world fantasy, partially envisioned by Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin, oozes with gothic aesthetics. From its self-serving, spectral deities to towering, cursed monsters, the player must vanquish all foes in a quest to claim the empty throne of the Lands Between. 

Games by FromSoftware are infamous for their relentless difficulty, but Elden Ring’s transition from smaller, intricate catacombs to a more leisurely-paced sandbox adventure renders each encounter increasingly compelling. There’s a pervasive intrigue in spotting a giant creature far off in the distance and opting to explore, which makes the engagement feel much more intimate than in earlier titles where enemies were merely grotesque obstacles to progress. Intertwining its lore into every dusty corner of its world, Elden Ring transforms a bleak setting into an endlessly inviting experience. It’s a stunningly melancholic space you’ll eagerly want to inhabit for countless hours. -A.B.

Few experiences rival the satisfaction of conquering a level in Celeste. Designed around a literal (and figurative) mountain to conquer, indie developer Maddy Thorson’s masterpiece encourages players to persist, regardless of how unfeasible the task ahead may appear. A pixelated 2D platforming game, Celeste presents a straightforward concept: skillfully combine breathtaking parkour jumps, wall climbs, and dashes to progress just a bit further, inching closer to triumph.

With a consistently engaging synth soundtrack, the music in Celeste remains uninterrupted when the player perishes, continuing to propel forward throughout each attempt and restart. Failures blend as players dedicate their bodies and minds to each challenge, making minor triumphs feel like significant personal achievements. Featuring a nuanced narrative about battling self-doubt intricately woven into every action, Celeste carries a complexity in its decision-making and reflex practice that elevates it beyond mere gameplay. -C.C.

Rocksteady Studios’ Batman: Arkham trilogy is renowned as one of the finest superhero game franchises ever created, with its second installment, Arkham City, exemplifying that status. The 2011 action-adventure title places the Caped Crusader in a role that straddles between Christian Bale’s brooding outcast and a Biblically precise angel, allowing players to feel irresistibly heroic and entirely invincible as they glide over Arkham City‘s murky streets. The game’s open-world design remains a groundbreaking aspect for superhero games, presenting dark choices in its everlasting nighttime setting — let the Joker perish, allow all villainy to be extinguished, and rescue Batman’s morality.
“`life. -A.B.

In 1994 Super Metroid assisted in establishing what has since been identified as “Metroidvania”—titles where you unlock skills that enable you to advance deeper into the universe. These design concepts have infiltrated numerous other titles, from Dark Souls to Zelda, but despite decades of evolution, the most significant progression of the Metroidvania concept emerged, yet again, from Nintendo itself.

Metroid Prime represents a remarkable progress in the franchise, providing one of the most disconcerting experiences witnessed in gaming history. It expertly utilizes atmosphere and tone while transforming the exploration-heavy structure of Metroid into a first-person adventure. Above all, Metroid Prime exceptionally succeeds in imparting a sense of isolation, challenging you against a hostile alien environment with nothing but your intellect and arm-cannon. From Samus’ breath misting up her visor to the haunting soundtrack that makes your ears tingle—Metroid Prime continues to be one of the finest examples of immersive, atmospheric narrative in the industry. -Hayes Madsen

Chrono Trigger was launched at the conclusion of the 16-bit console epoch, precisely at the moment RPGs appeared to have attained their utmost potential, offering a captivating time-travel narrative that concluded an entire gaming generation. Fusing the sophisticated narrative elements of Final Fantasy with the unforgettable character designs and visuals from Dragon Ball-creator Akira Toriyama’s artwork, Chrono Trigger occupied a distinctive position within the gaming realm that has not entirely been duplicated until the nostalgia-fueled resurgence of the current years.

With a complex narrative that capitalizes on the strengths of its extensive cast and includes various endings, Chrono Trigger stacked straightforward innovations atop impeccably executed RPG principles to craft a Platonic ideal of the genre as it existed in the mid-Nineties. It is a title that stands as a foundational text; aptly positioned to be the first and possibly the only RPG necessary for anyone inexperienced with the category. -C.C.

From its debut in 2005, God of War has been a pioneer in action gameplay, prompting years of followers, many of whom couldn’t replicate its precise blend of engaging controls, brutal violence, and extravagant cinematic elements. Yet, the atmosphere of the initial installment and its early sequels seems emotionally immature in the current media environment.

With the 2018 soft reboot, God of War progressed beyond its juvenile, edgy confines to convey a multifaceted narrative about parenthood and grief, recontextualizing its troubled antihero, Kratos, into a more seasoned and tragic persona grappling with his violent history. By transforming both its gameplay mechanics and expanding the limits of its narrative, the latest God of War reshaped what an action game could signify in modern times, once again leading the way for others to emulate. -C.C.

One term that encapsulates Shadow of the Colossus is visionary. A profound examination of isolation and desolation, the game places you in the role of a young individual named Wander, whose sole aim is to track down and eliminate massive beings known as colossi. 

Although Shadow of the Colossus qualifies as an action RPG, its gameplay mechanics are intentionally complex — from the time spent simply guiding your steed through the landscape, to the necessity of ascending the giants and identifying vulnerabilities through experimentation. However, the introspection the game encourages regarding your actions, particularly as you relentlessly pursue these otherwise tranquil beings, is remarkably profound. Shadow of the Colossus exemplifies video games as an artistic expression, demonstrating how gameplay and narrative can merge to convey a significant message. -H.M.

Although individuals who were in middle school during the launch of the first generation of Pokémon in the mid-Nineties may have a fondness for Red & Blue, it was the immediate sequels, Pokémon Gold and Silver, that refined the concept into the captivating pocket-sized RPG beloved by fans today. Including 100 new collectible creatures in addition to the originals’ 151, and doubling the expansive in-game environment, the second generation provided everything the first games did but with enhanced depth and strategy. Featuring inventive new character designs, such as the living tree Sudowoodo or the cutely unattractive canine Snubbull, and additional Pokémon types that extended beyond the basic elements like water, grass, and fire, Gold andSilver comprised entries designed for those who had previously excelled in the initial series, along with audiences freshly embarking on their journey.

The newly added Johto area sets the scene for a more eccentric and whimsical quest compared to Red & Blue, ranging from Team Rocket’s illicit Slowpoke tail trade to your rival’s blatant law-breaking in pursuit of triumph. The world-building in Gold & Silver is utterly captivating, regardless of whether you’re playing on a Game Boy. They epitomize the pinnacle of creature-collecting, allowing you to capture and form a squad of your cherished quirky companions. -H.M.

Many fighting games necessitate participants to grasp their intricate systems to flawlessly perform pixel-precise strikes, but Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. has consistently centered on the overall absurdity of its playtime concept. Blending its most iconic characters, from Mario to Mr. Game & Watch, without any consideration for tone, the franchise is characterized by its accessible party charm rather than elite competition.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is basically the zenith of this idea, uniting an outrageous 89 playable characters from both Nintendo franchises and third-party intellectual properties such as Final Fantasy, Metal Gear Solid, and Tekken for the ultimate video game crossover experience. Carefully designed for an easy entry point coupled with a considerable skill ceiling, it outplays its counterparts, and its variety of mini-game modes along with museum-like nods to countless games throughout history render it essential for enthusiasts of all ages. -A.B.

Aside from Mario himself, Sonic the Hedgehog may be the most identifiable video game figure in existence; even more than his debut title, it was Sonic the Hedgehog 2 that propelled him to stardom. While the first game presented Sonic as an edgier, faster alternative to Nintendo’s lineup, Sonic 2 delved deeper into a distinctive combination of speed-driven momentum and precise platforming that became quintessential to the character’s essence, all enveloped in a vibrant, candy-like aesthetic that leaps off the screen. Whereas Mario aimed to gently guide players into the experience, Sonic urges you to achieve perfection.its motion systems — to endlessly recreate levels to squeeze out another second or so for that record.

Presenting Sonic’s companion, Tails, Sonic 2 initiated the outward development of the franchise’s universe, linking the edgy surface with child-friendly gameplay. It controlled more swiftly and gracefully than its predecessor, becoming the game that established Sega as a brand and demonstrated that there are multiple ways to craft a flawless platformer. -H.M.

A metropolis enduring constant rainfall. Extensive cavernous passages where no light prevails. Suffocating desolate lands tormented by the kingdom’s specters. Hollow Knight has you delving into Hallownest, demanding precision in both combat and navigation as you unlock skills that lead to previously inaccessible locations. No matter your whereabouts, the ambiance is captivating. Each area invites exploration, compelling you to acquire maps of every zone, along with a quill, to gradually document them through exploration of every corner. 

Hollow Knight features a multitude of unforgettable boss battles, ranging from the three-against-one Mantis Lords clash to the intimidating Colosseum of Fools battleground. Discovering how to reach those pivotal encounters while progressively getting accustomed to each biome to the point of recall is as exhilarating as tackling the hurdles that await at your endpoint. Its achievement as a 2D exploration title that rivals the likes of Metroid and Castlevania in magnitude, with over 2.8 million copies sold by 2019, stands as a proof to other indie developers that small teams can and should invest in ambitious concepts. -D.A.

The NBA 2K series’ acclaim and consistent cultural relevance conceals its top-tier sports gameplay. It’s a title that real NBA athletes like the 76ers’ Paul George engage with when they’re off the court, continually fueling the competitive drive, yet remains approachable enough for everyone to relish, regardless of their basketball skills in reality.

And while the franchise continues to be an annually launched staple in the industry, many enthusiasts regard the 2010 installment as its zenith, released just before a flood of microtransactions diluted the experience and showcasing some of the finest team dynamics and ball movement in the series. There’s a reason this edition featured Michael Jordan’s likeness on multiple modes and packaging — it’s capitalizing on the universal face of the greatest basketball player of all time as a representation of the ultimate basketball video game. -C.C.

On first impression, Ms. Pac-Man can be considered an underrated arcade title when juxtaposed with her more renowned counterpart, Pac-Man. Nevertheless, the 1982 sequel eclipses the initial maze game in vibrant design elements. Players are tasked with navigating stylish Ms. Pac-Man through the franchise’s iconic black mazes, where the candy-colored ghosts are notably less predictable compared to Pac-Man. The mazes in Ms. Pac-Man are also equipped with several sets of confusing warp tunnels, in contrast to a single option, and power-ups are scarce rather than stationary, resulting in a more difficult and consistently surprising puzzle experience overall.

Aimed at captivating female gamers, a significant demographic that played a crucial role in the original game’s wild success, Ms. Pac-Man is not only one of the earliest female leads in an arcade phenomenon but is also widely regarded as superior to her circular male ally. -A.B.

Launching in 1999 as a more realistic modification of Valve’s Half-Life: Deathmatch, Counter-Strike enabled players to engage in competitions online or via LAN in unprecedented ways for that era. Although many first-person shooters may appear visually cluttered, Counter-Strike stands unmatched in terms of clarity. Each group of five has a distinct objective: either plant the bomb or diffuse it. Rescue the captives or thwart the rescue. Every player’s elimination is definitive for that round, increasing tension as allies are eliminated one by one.

Now, Counter-Strike has undergone a few transformations; however, its foundational gameplay — including the maps and firearms — has stayed consistent for more than 25 years. Recognized as one of the titles that birthed the global esports landscape, it continues to attract competitors and spectators alike to online tournaments and packed arenas, even amidst the rise of newer, intricately designed games. -C.C.

As a bundled title for Nintendo’s Wii, no game demonstrates the widespread attraction of gaming quite like Wii Sports. In 2006, it showcased to the world the straightforward, gesture-driven gameplay that utilized the console’s inventive TV remote-esque controller (affectionately termed the “Wiimote”). Featuring quirky yet undeniably enjoyable adaptations of real-life sports such as tennis, bowling, and golf, Wii Sports instructed gamers on how to engage with games in a more physical manner, without the fatigue associated with actual sports.

Arriving significantly ahead of the widespread adoption of touchscreen gaming and consumer-facing virtual-reality headsets, the shift from solely button-centric controls initially aroused skepticism. However, with its user-friendly layout and minimalist design, Wii Sports successfully conveyed Nintendo’s vision for the industry’s future to its audiences.

Participants of various ages, from children and parents in their living rooms to groups of college students in dormitories, engaged in…
“`their weekends yelling at the screen with complete focus, perfecting the nuances of the ideal wrist flick to emerge victorious. Nintendo has consistently grasped the principle of simplicity that ensures their games are easily accessible, yet few titles resonate with audiences of all ages and skill levels as elegantly as Wii Sports.

Long before The Last of Us tugged at audiences’ emotions, creators Naughty Dog started to establish the foundations for “playable films” with the Uncharted collection. Following the globe-hopping escapades of a modern-day Indiana Jones-type protagonist, the series features a professional burglar with a compassionate side, Nathan Drake, who scavenges hidden tombs for ancient treasures that could yield immense wealth if they weren’t perilous to humanity.

A third-person shooter focused heavily on running and climbing, Uncharted emphasizes its intricately designed scripted scenes over player options, yet akin to Indy’s exploits, there is an exhilarating joy in witnessing Nate adapt to ever more absurd challenges, with the player providing guidance to ensure he emerges unharmed. Uncharted 2 epitomizes a zenith for action gaming, where its motion-captured figures and witty dialogue seamlessly blend with over-the-top events, achieving feats that most Hollywood megahits can merely aspire to. -C.C.

Upon its initial debut in an unfinished, open-beta format in 2009, there had never been an experience quite like Minecraft in the realm of gaming. The notion of an open-world sandbox constructed from Lego-like blocks may have been an idea envisioned by children in their bedrooms, yet within the digital landscape of Minecraft, there were no boundaries to the creations, regardless of the distance or scale.

Although it has been revamped numerous times since its launch, Minecraft is essentially a survival-crafting experience, encouraging gamers to explore how its pixelated realm functions through trial and error. What resources can be gathered and how can they be transformed? How does one leverage their environment to persist through the night when the undead predators emerge? What can be constructed that is so colossal it defies the very laws of the game itself?

Despite its ambitious concepts being challenging for adults to comprehend, Minecraft resonates deeply with younger players, whose boundless creativity necessitates less “unlearning” of gaming norms in favor of the liberty to pursue their desires. Played across various servers, each serving a distinct purpose, it can serve as anything from a building block puzzle environment to a comprehensive character roleplay domain. Surpassing 300 million copies sold, with up to 200 million active users monthly in 2024, it stands as the most successful game in history and one of the most vigorously interacted with media globally every day. -H.M.

Despite this survival horror title being released two decades ago, it continues to be gruesomely terrifying even in the present day. Departing from the methodical (or rather: outdated) tank-like controls of its predecessors, Resident Evil 4 transitioned into a third-person shooting mechanism, establishing a new action-oriented atmosphere for the series. While it popularized the over-the-shoulder perspective that other titles like Gears of War later embraced, Resident Evil 4 stood out in its original context, instilling a sense of empowerment in players while maintaining its creepiness.

In a further evolution, lead character Leon S. Kennedy evolves from a novice officer in Resident Evil 2 to a quintessential action figure, battling monstrous tentacle-mouthed creatures in his mission to rescue the president’s daughter from a small Spanish village plagued by bio-horrors. With an exaggerated B-movie atmosphere that combines jump scares and theme park-like excitement, Resident Evil 4 weaves together its diverse influences into a horror-laced gaming experience. -A.B.

Mass Effect 2 is a daring sci-fi masterpiece where every choice carries weight, and everything you cherish can vanish in the blink of an eye. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, Mass Effect 2 places you in the role of galactic champion Commander Shepard, who is charged with assembling a diverse team for a mission described as “Suicide Mission” aimed at preserving humanity. This installment significantly advanced player autonomy within role-playing games, allowing you to portray a morally ambiguous Shepard solely focused on personal gain, a hero advocating for justice, or any point in between. Moreover, Mass Effect 2 excels at ensuring you form bonds with its non-player character allies — such as the assassin Thane, who struggles with his impending mortality, juxtaposed with his lethal tasks. Each companion in Mass Effect 2 has depth, and making incorrect decisions can result in the loss of virtually all your team members during the intense finale. Few titles can elevate the stakes and deliver on them like Mass Effect 2. -H.M.

Stardew Valley became emblematic of “cozy gaming” when solo creator Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone introduced it in 2016, and for valid reasons—every aspect of this farming simulator underlines its acclaim as one of the most prosperous indie titles of all time.

Loaded with gratifying tasks (catch a fish, cook an egg, marry your neighbor), it unfolds in a vibrant 16-bit universe, as inviting as a campfire. Its soothing storylines confer players a delightful, unending sense of purpose.

Whereas many games are distinctly outcome-focused, Stardew Valley finds its charm in a blend of tranquil atmospheres and low-pressure activities, transforming the hard work of farming into something inherently soothing. It provides genuine escapism, fulfilling every city dweller’s dream of an off-the-grid retreat. -A.B.

The Sims stands as one of the pioneering life-simulation titles, generating a fervent following by granting players an unusual sense of omniscience. While earlier creations like SimCity allowed users to act like gods on a vast scale, The Sims personalizes the experience, enabling players to influence lives on a more private basis.

The game is characterized by its eccentricities. Quirky elements like the nonsensical Simlish language and an alluring Grim Reaper allow players to indulge in their most extravagant power fantasies. They can dictate the tiniest details of their characters’ lives, from how frequently they relieve themselves to whether they might be abducted by extraterrestrials. This degree of control brings a continuous thrill, explaining why players remain captivated. -A.B.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater remains a definitive illustration of the confluence between gaming and culture. Taking control of 10 authentic professional skateboarders, from Chad Muska to Hawk himself, the realm of extreme sports transforms into an open space for exploration as players connect an array of the most outrageous tricks possible for a thoroughly gratifying points chase. Alternatively, players can meet a comical demise by wiping out, which offers its own peculiar charm.

Featuring a playful style, straightforward gameplay, and a legendary licensed soundtrack containing tracks from Dead Kennedys, Suicidal Tendencies, and Goldfinger, Pro Skater presents an arcade display of the freeform and subversive essence of the sport.

Experiencing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater is a thrilling way to embrace the essence of skateboarding while also allowing players to grind boards on top of taxis in downtown Minneapolis and glide down escalators within a New York City shopping center without facing arrest or risking injury.  -D.A.

Although the series has existed for numerous years, its significance in popular culture can essentially be traced back to Modern Warfare. By transitioning the backdrop from historic battlefields to a more modern, morally ambiguous environment, the game’s single-player campaign evolves from a basic war simulator to an experience akin to a military action fantasy, replete with a riveting storyline and exhilarating set pieces.

However, it is the multiplayer feature that elevated Modern Warfare above its competitors, characterized by rapid, twitchy shooting mechanics that revolutionized the tempo of online shooters at the time. The emergence of the “prestige” system provided the community with an unending list of enhancements and achievements to pursue, rendering each brief burst of competition fulfilling in some manner.

It was a groundbreaking triumph whose influence could be instantly recognized in the design of shooters—and indeed, any online game—in the years that followed. Although many of its features may now seem typical, Call of Duty’s trailblazing interpretation of contemporary combat has laid the groundwork for how games continue to be enjoyed today. -H.M.

“War. War never changes.” The introductory scroll of Fallout 3 establishes the atmosphere for a somber expedition into a post-apocalyptic realm, yet the actuality is far more peculiar. The reinterpretation of the niche RPG franchise by Bethesda Game Studios could have simply been a traditional science fiction version of The Elder Scrolls, but instead, it ushered players into an extensive open world filled with nuclear-powered automatons, cowboys, mutants, and ghouls amidst the devastation of the Capital Wasteland.

Though RPGs had intersected with first-person shooters before, Fallout 3 introduced previously unseen intricacy and a significant risk/reward element to every choice, whether it’s stealing or determining the destiny of an entire city. Through crafting a player-centric narrative that sustains a satirical tone throughout, Fallout 3 merged the finest aspects of its forerunners and expanded toward a richer and more captivating universe. The gaming industry has been pursuing its distinctive combination of wit and gravitas ever since. -C.C.

Mario Kart 64 is the title that fractures relationships: when you hit a banana peel and witness your kart spin out, only to be hit by a homing shell moments after. Over its numerous iterations on diverse generations of Nintendo’s consoles, the franchise has turned into one of the most favored multiplayer experiences ever — whether enjoyed on the sofa with companions or via online handheld play.

The second installment in Nintendo’s racing series brought forth four-player contests and is noted as one of the most aggravating party games in history. It established benchmarks for kart racing and infused all those crucial elements that are now essentials — a vast selection of vibrant characters, dynamic tracks offering a distinct experience, and that sorrowful jolt of plummeting from first to fifth place in an instant.

Mario Kart 64 is just as simple to grasp as it is to rage quit, but its alluring call perpetually summons you back. There’s no superior badge of honor for games of its nature. -H.M.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is arguably the most elaborate translation of a tabletop RPG available. Much like a delectably intricate campaign of Dungeons & Dragons’ fifth edition, upon which the 2023 title is founded, BG 3 is a captivating fusion of spellcasting and brawling, bosom buddies and betrayers. Furthermore, in a daring move for both Dungeon & Dragons and contemporary gaming, Baldur’s Gate 3 features romance and intimacy across genders and species (elf, drow, tiefling, etc.).

With more than 100 hours of sheer fantasy, enhanced by the opportunity to experiment with all of Baldur’s Gate 3’s starting classes and delve into every conceivable romantic partner — such as a charming, octopus-headed Mind Flayer, or a shape-shifting bear — players can discover one of 17,000 different endings for the game.

Due to its seemingly endless choices, Baldur’s Gate 3 has frequently been labeled as the game to spoil all other games. A player’s brooding bard character, for instance, encounters diverging paths on how to spend their time: Dismember an opponent, give him the cold shoulder, or mock him for having a “Twat-Soul.” -A.B.

Sports video games are a vital component of pop culture, sitting right at the intersection of widespread acclaim and devoted fandom. No franchise better epitomizes this prevalence than Madden. Since its inception in 1988, the series has persisted annually, continually adapting alongside the NFL itself.

Annually, over 17 million individuals tune in to watch football; everyone is familiar with something about it, rendering Madden approachable to those who aren’t committed to every statistic, while also possessing enough depth to satisfydiehard fans. Some individuals don’t possess any game other than Madden. It’s a series that flourishes in the ambiguous territory among varied cultures, uniting people, whether they see themselves as gamers or not.

However, among all the versions, 2004 occupies a unique spot for numerous fans as the one that unveiled Owner Mode, expanding the gameplay beyond the field into managing a franchise — all the way to hotdog sales. -C.C.

Eliminate an enemy, earn experience, acquire gold, don better gear, master more potent spells. Repeat, repeat, repeat. In 2000, the idea of seasonal events and battle passes didn’t exist. The grind of the action RPG depended entirely on advancing your character, click by click. Within this domain, Diablo stood unmatched.

Both its grim atmosphere populated with horrifying demons and confined catacombs featuring torture chambers, alongside the brisk combat, have shaped dungeon crawlers from Hades to Path of Exile. Diablo II and its expansions paved the way for a universe where the most gratifying games could meld profound lore intertwined with side quests and notes while providing an almost mesmerizing loop of combat grinding, prompting players to explore its depths repeatedly with fresh strategies, builds, and perspectives on how to overcome its obstacles.

To date, not even its creator Blizzard has managed to revive its haunting brilliance. -D.A.

Most individuals will rarely achieve their youthful fantasies of becoming a cowboy, yet Red Dead Redemption 2 encourages them to attempt. In this narrative, hero Arthur Morgan relishes tobacco and combats for survival in an altered reality of 1899. Outlaws and illness loom at every corner, but don’t be deceived; this isn’t The Oregon Trail. Utilizing all the insights acquired through the progression of the Grand Theft Auto franchise, the developers at Rockstar enrich Red Dead with one of the most intricately crafted open environments ever.

With several quests available, players will invariably find moments to guide their horses across snowy expanses or verdant mountain trails — it’s inherently a part of the core adventure to pause and appreciate the beauty amidst robberies and the pursuit of Klansmen. From traversing through wilderness on foot to chasing down criminals from horseback, Red Dead Redemption 2 compels your focus on its slightest nuances. -A.B.

Full of significant decisions, intricate side quests, and an abundance of lethal creatures, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is arguably the closest thing to the ideal fantasy RPG that we’ve experienced. Its astonishingly rich open world brimming with threads to explore, it’s a game that does not offer guidance. Following the journey of Geralt of Rivia, a superhuman monster slayer attempting to evade destiny, it could have easily turned into a typical power fantasy, yet at every juncture surpasses what could have been merely genre clichés.

Influenced by the writing of Polish novelist Andrzej Sapkowski, its narrative continuously astonishes as minor side quests unfold into expansive tales, such as a basic wraith hunt evolving into a tragic romance. Every element is meticulously crafted to immerse you — like the method of concocting potions for combat, how entries in the bestiary can reveal crucial vulnerabilities, and how your decisions can reverberate in haunting ways hours later.

The Witcher 3 is seldom straightforward, yet its numerous trials necessitate players to engage with the game on its own terms. By doing so, players will uncover one of the most elaborate narratives in gaming and a memorable role-playing adventure. -H.M.

Capcom’s Street Fighter II is certainly not the inaugural fighting game, yet it uniquely feels as though it is. Evolving from the premise of arcade beat-em-ups and basic 1v1 combat titles, it established the staples of the genre that persist today: High and low strikes, combos, and special character abilities were all solidified in this title, along with a principal cast of global fighters catering to various players’ styles.

Though it found success on home consoles, it was in arcades that Street Fighter II spawned the fighting-game community, fostering a global competitive environment that became the forerunner of modern esports.

While other fighting games may feature more explicit violence or suggestive themes, and many opt for intricate 3D graphics and multi-directional movement, the charm of Street Fighter lies in its straightforwardness. Two combatants, one plane, and a few easily executed but visually striking attacks. Even though the initial iterations of the game are slower compared to subsequent updates, the essence remains intact. -C.C.

A space warrior finds himself confronting demons on the satellites of Mars, ultimately bringing the conflict back to the underworld. Not only does Doom possess one of gaming’s most compelling premises, but it also shaped the framework of a first-person shooter: Twisted level designs packed with secrets, formidable enemies, and an unparalleled rock and metal soundtrack converged with responsive gunplay.

Despite being over thirty years old, engaging with Doom today never feels like reverting to a bygone era. Its maneuvering and targeting are swift and exceptionally precise. Opponents lurking in every nook of its maps remain a menace, even if you’ve committed their positions to memory. It’s a title whose simplicity and total absence of irrelevant elements render it everlasting.

Doom has experienced numerous sequels, yet it’s the original that gamers consistently uphold with countless modifications, serving as inspiration for developers, without an end in sight. Regardless of how many contemporary shooters you’ve tried, there’s always joy in obliterating the minions of Hell with a Big Fucking Gun. -D.A.

Very few developers painstakingly focus on creating an authentic atmosphere in their video game worlds; World of Warcraft’s Azeroth stands out as a noteworthy example. The magnitude is overwhelming — opening the map of World of Warcraft reveals not just a single city, but whole continents to explore. As your character navigates the extensive multiplayer online role-playing game, joining forces with others and embarking on quests, Azeroth immerses you with every step you take.

You can utilize magical portals or travel via zeppelins between lively capitals, such as Orgrimmar or Silvermoon City, teeming with everything from enchanting forests to icy expanses. Each location is unique and embodies a segment of a dynamic world where real individuals inhabit — because they do.

By becoming part of guilds, players can integrate into a community. Leveling up and advancing with your character serves as the primary temptation, but witnessing the scenery and merging into Azeroth is captivating, and the experience remains unparalleled even today. -D.A.

Catapulting Microsoft into tremendous success within the gaming industry, Halo: Combat Evolved completely transformed expectations. Prior to its debut, first-person shooters were primarily enjoyed on PCs, yet the remarkable effort of the developers at Bungie represented a revelation — a radical glimpse into what video games could achieve on consoles.

The initial Halo redefined the concept of enjoying shooters via controllers, rather than a mouse and keyboard — particularly in its dual stick aiming mechanism. The model established by Halo has been adopted in countless other titles.

Halo is captivating from beginning to end, full of nail-biting moments like battling parasitic aliens or a frantic escape from a detonating craft. In addition, it features a diverse assortment of multiplayer options, from deathmatch to capture the flag, ensuring near-limitless hours of enjoyment, and has even left an enduring cultural mark through other media, including the fan-created web series Red vs. Blue. -H.M.

The initial Metroid was Nintendo’s interpretation of the film Alien, however, its follow-up, Super Metroid, evolved into such a unique experience that it has been referenced for the ensuing 30 years. The quintessential 2D adventure game, Super Metroid places participants in the shoes of interstellar bounty hunter, Samus Aran, tasked with navigating the perilous depths of planet Zebes to thwart a group of space bandits from deploying a living bioweapon.

By popularizing the concept of exploring a connected environment and then retracing steps equipped with new gadgets to access previously unattainable areas, the title set a standard for both major 2D successes and indie titles. It was among the first games to genuinely capture the essence of atmospheric terror, with its eerie synthetic score fading in and out—at times leaving gamers engulfed in silence, accompanied only by the subtle movements of lurking enemies and the mechanical sounds that fill the emptiness.

Titles from all genres are indebted to the basics that Super Metroid established. Despite many attempting to emulate its legacy, the model it established remains impeccable. -C.C.

While The Elder Scrolls has consistently been a prominent figure in roleplaying games for numerous years, it was not until the fifth edition, Skyrim, that its intricate vision of first-person fantasy truly resonated with mainstream audiences.

In 2011, it appeared as though Skyrim dominated the landscape. The NPC dialogues gave rise to online memes, and its mechanics found their way into nearly every game of the time. Nevertheless, none matched the intricate complexity of the original itself. Marketed as a title that allowed freedom of movement and action, the brief description could never encapsulate the astonishing experience of unexpectedly encountering a slumbering dragon and engaging in an epic showdown while dual-wielding arcane weaponry.

Skyrim stands out as one of the rare titles that fulfills the declaration that no two sessions will ever be identical. You can acquire magical skills at the College of Winterhold or immerse yourself in the covert plots of the Thieves Guild. You have the liberty to align with either faction in the civil conflict between Imperials and Stormcloaks, but ultimately, Skyrim’s greatest asset is delivering the freedom to entirely bypass it, permitting exploration through over 100 dungeons and an impressive variety of quests, all at your leisure. -D.A.