"30 Greatest Games Ever Ranked"

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 challenging. For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood quest, while for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that brought together thousands of people. We've gathered a list of the best games of all time, validated by the most authoritative ratings.

For those interested in specific genres, we recommend exploring our other curated lists:

Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters, Platformers

Table of Content ---

• 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

0 0 Comment on this Half-Life 2

Image: steam.com

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

Half-Life 2, released in 2004 by Valve, is a legendary first-person shooter that immerses you in the role of Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist in an alien-occupied world. Beyond shooting, you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. The game's narrative grips you from the outset, with an atmosphere that vividly portrays humanity's struggle for survival. Its groundbreaking physics and intelligent enemy AI continue to impress even today.

Portal 2

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

Portal 2 is a delight for both the mind and sense of humor. You'll enjoy the sarcastic quips from GLaDOS, the sinister AI, and the charming yet frustrating robot Wheatley. Their interactions are memorable and add depth to the experience. As puzzles grow increasingly complex, new mechanics like gels and light bridges introduce fresh challenges. The introduction of multiplayer in this sequel further enhances the game's appeal.

Diablo II

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

Diablo II, launched in 2000 by Blizzard, is not just a game but a cultural phenomenon. It set the standard for the ARPG genre with its dark, gothic world filled with secrets. As you choose your hero and embark on a perilous journey, the thrill of battling monsters and collecting loot keeps you hooked. Its enduring popularity is evident through re-releases, mods, and a dedicated fan base that continues to grow.

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 offers a vast, detailed universe where you play as Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned monster hunter. The game's world is rich with quests that go beyond simple tasks, each unfolding into full stories with compelling characters and surprising twists. Moral dilemmas challenge your decisions, contributing to its status as a cult classic. Praised for its narrative depth and atmospheric world, it has won numerous awards and is considered 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 remains a beloved strategy game, allowing you to lead a civilization from the Stone Age to space exploration. The game mirrors real-life challenges as you build cities, advance technology, and navigate diplomatic relations or wage wars. Each playthrough offers a unique experience on a randomly generated map, with expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" adding even more depth and replay value.

Fallout 3

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

Released in 2008 by Bethesda, Fallout 3 is an iconic action/RPG with an expansive open world. As a Vault 101 resident venturing out for the first time, you explore the ruins of Washington, facing mutants and bandits while making choices that shape your journey. The game's atmosphere, from retro radio hits to the haunting ruins, creates an immersive experience that has made it a cherished classic.

BioShock

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

BioShock may appear as a typical action shooter at first, but it delves deeper into a 1960s-inspired dystopia filled with jazz and dark secrets. Every detail, from doors to wall inscriptions, tells a story that captivates players. Its thought-provoking narrative and unique setting have sparked discussions and left a lasting impact, much like Twin Peaks.

Red Dead Redemption 2

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

In Red Dead Redemption 2, you embody Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, navigating the fading era of the Wild West. The game's expansive world allows you to lose yourself in the prairie's dust and the era's final days. Your actions shape your reputation, offering a rich narrative experience that players cherish for its depth and freedom.

Dark Souls 2

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

Dark Souls II, released in 2014, challenges players with its punishing difficulty, which is central to its philosophy. As you navigate the kingdom of Drangleic, every encounter is a test of skill and strategy. The souls you collect from fallen enemies serve as currency for leveling up or buying supplies, making every death a significant setback but also an opportunity for growth.

Doom Eternal

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

Doom Eternal is all about relentless action and adrenaline-pumping combat. You run, jump, and shoot your way through hordes of demons, with no time to catch your breath. The game focuses on pure gameplay, offering an exhilarating experience without the need for deep narratives or survival elements.

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 an RPG where you create your character and assemble a party to tackle epic adventures. Every decision, from dialogue choices to actions, shapes the story. The game's depth and freedom allow for a truly personalized experience, earning it praise from both players and critics for its innovative approach to storytelling.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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

Skyrim is legendary for its endless stories and adventures. Whether you're climbing mountains, delving into dungeons, or battling dragons, the game offers complete freedom to explore at your own pace. Its vast world and engaging narrative continue to captivate players, making it a timeless classic.

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. Every dialogue and decision impacts the fate of planets and characters, offering a thrilling mix of shootouts and moral choices. The game's emotional depth and engaging story have made it a beloved title among fans.

Grand Theft Auto V

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

GTA V offers unparalleled freedom in its virtual Los Santos. Whether you follow the plot or indulge in chaotic antics, the game's open-world design lets you do it all. From flying with jetpacks to racing against the law, the freedom to choose your path is what makes GTA V a standout title.

Resident Evil 4

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

Resident Evil 4, released in 2005, revolutionized the survival horror genre with its dynamic gameplay. From tense shootouts to challenging puzzles, the game keeps you on edge with its atmospheric setting and memorable bosses. Its influence on the industry continues to be felt even two decades later.

Disco Elysium

Image: steam.com

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

Disco Elysium is a game about introspection and existential questions. As a detective in Revachol, you navigate a noir-inspired world filled with philosophical musings and psychedelic art. Every dialogue choice matters, offering a deeply personal and thought-provoking experience.

RimWorld

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

RimWorld challenges you to manage a colony on the edge of survival. From putting out fires to making tough moral choices, the game generates unique stories with every playthrough. Its blend of humor and tension keeps players engaged for years, discovering new ways to navigate its unpredictable world.

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 complex world generation creates rich histories and myths, turning every fortress into a living legend. The 2022 remake enhanced its accessibility, but the core experience remains a challenging and rewarding journey.

World of Warcraft

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

World of Warcraft offers endless possibilities, from exploring vast landscapes to engaging in epic battles. Its evolving world, community, and rich lore have made it a cultural phenomenon. Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore raider, WoW has something for everyone.

StarCraft

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

StarCraft, released in 1998, set the standard for real-time strategy games. Its simple yet deep gameplay requires strategic planning and quick thinking, much like a game of chess with futuristic elements. It became a cultural phenomenon, particularly in South Korea, where it birthed a thriving esports scene.

Minecraft

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

Minecraft's world of cubes offers endless creativity and adventure. Whether you're building structures, exploring, or surviving, the game's freedom is its greatest strength. Its active community and modding scene continue to expand its possibilities, making it a beloved title across generations.

Spore

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

Spore is a unique experiment in game design, allowing you to create and evolve creatures through various stages of development. Its editors and the impact of your choices on the game world make every playthrough unique. Despite some simple stages, Spore's ambition and creativity have left a lasting mark on the industry.

Warcraft III

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

Warcraft III introduced heroes to the RTS genre, allowing for deeper strategy and storytelling. Its four distinct races and engaging narrative have kept players coming back for years. The game's map editor also spawned the MOBA genre, with Dota becoming a global phenomenon.

League of Legends

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

League of Legends has dominated the MOBA genre for over a decade, with its unique characters and universe. Despite recent challenges, its loyal fan base remains hopeful for its revival. The game's impact extends beyond gaming, with the acclaimed series Arcane showcasing its storytelling potential.

Undertale

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

Undertale's impact in 2015 was profound, challenging players to consider the consequences of their actions in a world filled with monsters. Its emotional narrative, memorable characters, and innovative mechanics have made it a beloved title, prompting players to reflect on themes of violence and empathy.

Inscryption

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

Inscryption blends card game mechanics with a mysterious narrative, challenging you to explore a dark cabin filled with secrets. Its unconventional rules and surprising twists keep you engaged, with the game's depth and meta-elements making it a unique and captivating 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 places you in the shoes of civilians surviving in a war-torn city. The game's focus on survival and moral choices offers a sobering look at the realities of war. Its emotional depth and challenging gameplay make it a powerful and thought-provoking experience.

Hearthstone

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

Hearthstone made card battles accessible and engaging, drawing in millions with its Warcraft-themed gameplay. Its charming visual design and music contribute to its widespread appeal, making it a favorite among both casual and competitive players.

Stardew Valley

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

Stardew Valley offers a cozy and relaxing experience, allowing you to manage a farm and build relationships in a charming pixel world. Created by Eric Barone, the game's attention to detail and subtle humor create an atmosphere that players return to time and again.

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 an introspective journey through a series of mini-games, guided by a narrator. It explores themes of creativity and burnout, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience. To fully appreciate its depth, consider playing the developer's other game, The Stanley Parable.

The greatest games of all time are more than just masterpieces of their genres; they are living stories that unite generations. While the list may evolve, each of these titles has already left an indelible mark on the industry—and perhaps on your heart.