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

Choosing the "best" game can be subjective; for some, it's a nostalgic journey from childhood, while for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that brought together thousands of people. We've compiled a list of the best games of all time, as validated by the most authoritative ratings.

We also recommend exploring our curated selections of games by genre:

Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers

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

Image: steam.com

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

Half-Life 2 is a legendary first-person shooter released by Valve in 2004. You step into the shoes of Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist navigating a world under alien occupation. Beyond shooting, you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. The game's story captivates from the outset, immersing you in a world where humanity fights for survival. The physics engine was groundbreaking and remains impressive today, with enemies that strategize and adapt to your moves.

Portal 2

Image: steam.com

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

Portal 2 is a delightful challenge for both your mind and sense of humor. You'll chuckle at GLaDOS's sarcastic quips and find Wheatley's endearing yet frustrating presence unforgettable. The game's dialogues and interactions leave a lasting impression. As you progress, puzzles grow increasingly complex with innovative mechanics like gels and light bridges. Don't miss out on the multiplayer mode, introduced in this sequel.

Diablo II

Image: polygon.com

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

Diablo II isn't just a game; it's an era. Launched by Blizzard in 2000, it set the standard for action RPGs. Its gothic world is steeped in dark secrets where you choose your hero, battle monsters, and collect loot to grow stronger. The game's addictive nature stems from the thrill of every new sword or skill upgrade. Despite its age, Diablo II continues to captivate through re-releases, mods, and a dedicated fanbase, uniting millions worldwide.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Image: xtgamer.net

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

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a vast, immersive universe. As Geralt of Rivia, you'll wield both sword and magic in a meticulously crafted world. Every quest tells a rich story with intriguing characters and unexpected twists. The game presents moral dilemmas that challenge your decision-making. It's no surprise that The Witcher 3 is a cult classic, praised for its deep narrative, well-developed characters, and captivating atmosphere, earning numerous awards.

Sid Meier's Civilization V

Image: steam.com

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

Civilization V remains a beloved strategy game, drawing players back time and again. You lead a civilization from the stone age to space exploration, building cities, advancing science and culture, and navigating diplomacy or war. Each game offers a unique story on a randomly generated map. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" add depth with new mechanics such as religions and espionage, offering countless hours of gameplay.

Fallout 3

Image: newgamenetwork.com

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

In 2008, Bethesda released the definitive action RPG with Fallout 3. You step out of Vault 101 into the ruins of Washington, facing mutants and bandits with complete freedom of choice. The game's atmosphere is unforgettable, with retro music, rusted ruins, and a sense of pervasive radiation. Fallout 3 is a cult classic, a familiar world you'll want to revisit even after uncovering all its secrets.

BioShock

Image: steam.com

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

At first glance, BioShock might seem like a typical action shooter, but it delves much deeper. It transports you to a 1960s dystopia where jazz plays from seashell-shaped speakers and dark secrets lurk in the shadows. Every detail tells a story, sparking discussions akin to those around Twin Peaks. BioShock leaves an indelible mark on players.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Image: steam.com

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

In Red Dead Redemption 2, you embody Arthur Morgan, a hardened outlaw in a world where the era of cowboys is fading. This isn't about saving the world but surviving and holding onto humanity. The expansive world allows you to immerse yourself fully, with every action having ripple effects. Will you be a noble gunslinger or a notorious villain? The choice is yours.

Dark Souls 2

Image: steam.com

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

Dark Souls II is for those who dream of being a hero who repeatedly falls but rises to fight again. Released in 2014, it sparks debate about whether it's a brilliant challenge or a redefined masterpiece of difficulty. In Drangleic, you'll face a beautiful yet merciless kingdom. The souls of fallen enemies are your currency, used to level up or buy potions, but they're lost upon death, making every choice critical.

Doom Eternal

Image: steam.com

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

In Doom Eternal, you run, shoot, and explode through a relentless barrage of demons. There's no time to breathe, only adrenaline and action. The game doesn't aim for deep drama or survival simulation; it's pure carnage with a brilliantly designed gameplay that keeps your heart racing.

Baldur's Gate 3

Image: steam.com

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

Baldur's Gate 3 is an RPG where you craft your character, gather a party, and embark on epic adventures filled with dragons, magic, and intrigue. Every decision, from a failed joke to a betrayal, alters the story. The game's freedom and lack of "right" answers make it a favorite among players and critics alike.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Image: steam.com

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

Skyrim is a legendary game for its endless stories and hidden corners. It's an adventure where you decide when it ends, with no pressure to follow the main plot. Climb mountains, delve into dungeons, and battle dragons in a world that's yours to explore and rule.

Mass Effect 2

Image: steam.com

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

Mass Effect 2 is a personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic surprises. From thrilling shootouts to dialogues that shape entire planets, you'll face tough choices and potential romances. It's an RPG that resonates deeply with fans, remembered for its emotional moments and impactful decisions.

Grand Theft Auto V

Image: steam.com

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

In GTA V, you can cause mayhem in Los Santos or follow the plot like a movie star. The game's freedom is its charm—fly with a jetpack, race against cops, or steal cars. It's a franchise that lets you play without boundaries.

Resident Evil 4

Image: steam.com

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

Released in 2005, Resident Evil 4 broke the mold of survival horror, adding dynamism and memorable bosses. It keeps you on edge with shootouts, puzzles, and cinematic moments, never letting you catch your breath.

Disco Elysium

Image: steam.com

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

Disco Elysium is about falling and rising, asking profound questions without clear answers. It blends a noir detective story with philosophical and psychedelic elements. As a detective in Revachol, you'll solve a murder while confronting your own reflection.

RimWorld

Image: steam.com

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

RimWorld keeps you on your toes, managing a base while dealing with emergencies and tough choices. It's a story generator filled with humor and unexpected challenges, offering endless replayability as you navigate survival and morality.

Dwarf Fortress

Image: steam.com

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

Dwarf Fortress is the pioneer of sandbox games, inspiring titles like Minecraft and RimWorld. Its 2022 remake enhanced its graphics and gameplay. The game generates worlds with rich histories and legends, where your fortress becomes part of an epic tale.

World of Warcraft

Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com

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

World of Warcraft offers limitless possibilities—from exploring vast landscapes to battling monsters or other players. Its world evolves with new content, and its community unites players of all types. The lore of Azeroth is a saga filled with drama and humor.

StarCraft

Image: polygon.com

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

Released in 1998, StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy games. It's a game of planning and execution, akin to chess but with spaceships and alien swarms. It became a cultural phenomenon, particularly in South Korea, where it birthed a professional esports scene.

Minecraft

Image: minecraft.net

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

Minecraft is a world of cubes where you can build anything from a simple house to a vast city. Whether you're mining, fighting monsters, or building in Creative Mode, the game's freedom and community-driven mods keep it endlessly engaging.

Spore

Image: axios.com

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

Spore is an ambitious game where you create unique creatures and spaceships, influencing the world around you. Its editors inspire creativity, and despite some simplistic stages, it remains a groundbreaking project that turns players into universe directors.

Warcraft III

Image: warcraft3.blizzard.com

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

Warcraft III introduced heroes to the strategy genre, allowing you to level up and equip them. With four distinct races, each offering unique tactics, the game's story and map editor fueled creativity, leading to the birth of the MOBA genre with Dota.

League of Legends

Image: youtube.com

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

League of Legends is a dominant force in the MOBA genre, creating its own universe and characters. Despite recent challenges, its dedicated community and the success of Arcane highlight its enduring appeal and potential for revival.

Undertale

Image: steam.com

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

Undertale captivated players in 2015 with its emotional story and unique mechanics. You choose how to interact with monsters, affecting the game's outcome. Its memorable characters and soundtrack, composed by Toby Fox, make it a true phenomenon.

Inscryption

Image: steam.com

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

Inscryption draws you into a dark cabin for a card roguelike game with unconventional rules. As you explore, you uncover puzzles and secrets, with the game constantly surprising you. It delves into deeper narratives, involving your PC files and historical mysteries.

This War of Mine

Image: steam.com

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

In This War of Mine, you're an ordinary person in a war-torn city, managing daily survival and facing tough decisions. By day, you repair and search; by night, you scavenge, navigating moral dilemmas that challenge your humanity.

Hearthstone

Image: hearthstone.blizzard.com

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

Hearthstone made card battles accessible and engaging, drawing on the Warcraft universe. Its visual design and music enhance the experience, making it a favorite among both newcomers and seasoned players.

Stardew Valley

Image: steam.com

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

Stardew Valley offers simple joys like farming and befriending neighbors. You inherit an old farm, with endless possibilities to grow crops, raise animals, or explore mines. Created by Eric Barone, its pixel art and cozy atmosphere make it a game you'll want to return to.

The Beginner's Guide

Image: wired.com

Metascore: 76
Download: Steam
Release Date: October 1, 2015
Developer: Everything Unlimited Ltd.

The Beginner's Guide is an art piece that invites reflection on creativity and burnout. Through mini-games created by a fictional developer, you explore themes without complex mechanics, making it a thought-provoking experience.

The greatest games of all time are not just genre masterpieces; they are living stories that unite generations. While this list may evolve, each game has left an indelible mark on the industry—and perhaps on your heart.