Video games have evolved dramatically over the past few decades, pushing the boundaries of creativity, technology, and storytelling. As the industry has grown, certain games have stood out, shaping the gaming landscape in profound ways. These titles are not only revered for their gameplay mechanics but also for their lasting cultural and artistic impact. When we talk about the best games ever made, we must consider those that have redefined what gaming can achieve, whether through innovative mechanics, deep narratives, or sheer technical excellence.
One of the most influential games in the history of gaming is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, this action-adventure game introduced 3D exploration to the Zelda series and set a new standard for open-world design. Players control Link, a young hero on a quest to stop the evil Ganondorf from taking tangandewa over the land of Hyrule. What made Ocarina of Time so groundbreaking was its combination of seamless gameplay, innovative mechanics, and a richly developed world. The game’s open-world exploration, complex puzzles, and immersive combat system created an experience that had never been seen before. Even today, Ocarina of Time remains a benchmark for 3D adventure games.
Another classic that deserves recognition as one of the best games ever made is The Last of Us. Released in 2013 by Naughty Dog, this action-adventure game takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. Players follow Joel, a hardened survivor, as he escorts Ellie, a young girl with the potential to cure a deadly infection, across a desolate and dangerous world. What sets The Last of Us apart is its emphasis on emotional storytelling, moral dilemmas, and character development. The bond that forms between Joel and Ellie as they navigate their survival is deeply moving, and the game’s high level of detail, gripping narrative, and innovative mechanics set it apart as a milestone in gaming.
Lastly, Red Dead Redemption 2, released in 2018 by Rockstar Games, has also left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. This open-world action-adventure game is set in the late 1800s, during the decline of the Wild West. Players control Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as he navigates the turbulent end of an era. What makes Red Dead Redemption 2 one of the best games is its vast, meticulously crafted open world, filled with stunning landscapes, detailed characters, and endless activities. The game also offers a rich narrative that explores themes of loyalty, morality, and the consequences of one’s actions. The level of realism in the game’s world, paired with its captivating story, has set a new standard for open-world games and has made Red Dead Redemption 2 a definitive experience in the medium.
These games—The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, The Last of Us, and Red Dead Redemption 2—have not only become some of the best games ever made but also have influenced countless titles that followed. They’ve raised the bar for what video games can achieve, both in terms of technology and emotional depth. As gaming continues to evolve, these titles will remain cornerstones of the industry, representing the heights that video games can reach when developers take risks and push the limits of creativity.
