"Top 30 All-Time Greatest Games Revealed"

Some games stay with us like old friends, their music etched in our memories and moments of triumph or defeat still giving us chills. Others are like bright flashes that shook the industry and set new standards. Choosing the "best" games can be subjective; for some, it's a nostalgic childhood quest, while for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that brought thousands together. Here, we've gathered the best games of all time, validated by the most authoritative ratings. We also recommend exploring our curated selections of games across various genres:

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, released in 2004 by Valve, is a legendary first-person shooter. As Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist, you navigate a world occupied by an alien empire. This game goes beyond shooting; it involves solving puzzles, interacting with the environment, and using the iconic gravity gun. The story captivates from the start, immersing you in a world where humanity fights for survival, with physics that were revolutionary at the time and still impress today. Enemies are smart, flanking and ambushing you, making every encounter thrilling.

Portal 2

Image: steam.com

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

Portal 2 is a delight for both the mind and your sense of humor. The sarcastic comments of GLaDOS and the antics of Wheatley, the endearing yet irritating robot, will stick with you. As puzzles escalate in complexity, new mechanics like gels that alter surface properties and light bridges add depth. Don't miss out on the multiplayer mode, a fantastic addition to the sequel.

Diablo II

Image: polygon.com

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

Diablo II, released by Blizzard in 2000, isn't just a game; it's an era. It set the standard for the ARPG genre with its dark, gothic world filled with ominous secrets. Choose your hero and embark on a journey to fight monsters, collect loot, and grow stronger. It's addictive, with every new sword and skill upgrade feeling like a victory. Even today, it remains relevant with 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 an expansive universe that you'll want to dive into. As Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter, you explore a vast, meticulously detailed world. Each quest is a story with rich characters and unexpected twists, presenting moral dilemmas that challenge your decisions. Celebrated for its deep narrative, well-crafted characters, and immersive atmosphere, it's no surprise that this game is considered a masterpiece and has won countless 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 that players return to time and again. As a ruler, guide your civilization from stone axes to spaceships, building cities, advancing science, and deciding how to interact with neighboring civilizations. Each playthrough tells a unique story on a randomly generated map, with expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" adding even more depth and content.

Fallout 3

Image: newgamenetwork.com

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

Fallout 3, released in 2008 by Bethesda, is an iconic Action/RPG set in the ruins of Washington. As a Vault 101 resident, you step into a world of mutants, bandits, and complete freedom. The retro hits on the radio and the rusted ruins create an unforgettable atmosphere, making this game an old friend you'll want to revisit.

BioShock

Image: steam.com

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

BioShock may seem like another action shooter, but it delves much deeper. Set in a distorted 1960s world, it captivates with its dark, mysterious story. Every element, from doors to wall inscriptions, adds to the narrative, sparking debates and leaving a lasting impression, much like Twin Peaks.

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 live as Arthur Morgan, an outlaw in a world where the era of cowboys is fading. The expansive, living world lets you forget the plot and simply exist, a feature players adore. Every action has consequences, shaping your path as either a noble gunslinger or a notorious villain.

Dark Souls 2

Image: steam.com

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

Dark Souls 2, released in 2014, is for those who dream of being a hero who constantly loses but keeps fighting. Its difficulty is part of its philosophy, set in the beautiful yet merciless kingdom of Drangleic. The souls of fallen enemies serve as currency, making every decision crucial as you level up or risk losing everything upon death.

Doom Eternal

Image: steam.com

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

Doom Eternal is all about relentless action. Run, shred monsters, cling to walls, and shoot without pause. It doesn't aim for deep drama but delivers pure adrenaline and 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 create your character, gather a party, and embark on epic adventures with dragons, magic, and intrigue. Every decision, from dialogue choices to actions, shapes the story. It's beloved by players and critics for its immersive role-playing experience.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Image: steam.com

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

Skyrim is legendary for its endless stories. Explore every corner, climb mountains, delve into dungeons, and fight dragons in a world where you set the pace. It's an adventure where you decide when it ends.

Mass Effect 2

Image: steam.com

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

Mass Effect 2 is your personal saga of friendship, betrayal, and cosmic surprises. Thrilling shootouts and dialogues that shape planetary fates challenge you to make tough choices, blending action with deep storytelling.

Grand Theft Auto V

Image: steam.com

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

GTA V offers unparalleled freedom in virtual Los Santos. Whether you follow the plot or cause mayhem, the choice is yours. Fly with a jetpack, race against cops, or steal cars—this game's freedom is its greatest strength.

Resident Evil 4

Image: steam.com

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

Resident Evil 4, released in 2005, revolutionized survival horror by adding dynamism and stripping away unnecessary elements. The eerie corridors, adrenaline-pumping shootouts, and memorable bosses keep you on edge, seamlessly blending action and horror.

Disco Elysium

Image: steam.com

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

Disco Elysium is about falling, rising, and questioning. Set in Revachol, this game mixes a noir detective story with philosophical and psychedelic elements. As a detective solving a murder, you'll first need to confront 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. Building a base involves managing crises, treating wounds, and making tough survival choices. It's a story generator that keeps you engaged, laughing at absurd situations or pondering over moral dilemmas.

Dwarf Fortress

Image: steam.com

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

Dwarf Fortress, the grandfather of sandbox games, inspired titles like Minecraft and RimWorld. Its 2022 remake improved its visuals while maintaining its core of generating entire worlds with histories and legends. Survive, build, and watch as your dwarves navigate epic tales.

World of Warcraft

Image: worldofwarcraft.blizzard.com

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

World of Warcraft lets you do anything—explore, complete quests, fight monsters, or join epic raids. Its evolving world, constant updates, and vibrant community make it a cult phenomenon. Azeroth's lore is a full-fledged saga, filled with drama and humor.

StarCraft

Image: polygon.com

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

StarCraft, released in 1998 by Blizzard, set the standard for real-time strategy games. Its simple premise of building a base, gathering resources, and outmaneuvering opponents became a cultural phenomenon, especially in South Korea, where it became a national esport.

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 house to a city. Explore, mine resources, fight monsters, or build in Creative Mode—its freedom and active community make it endlessly popular.

Spore

Image: axios.com

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

Spore is a unique experiment with its editors allowing you to create creatures and spaceships. Every step influences the world, and the game's variety ensures each playthrough feels unique, inspiring creativity and exploration.

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 RTS genre, allowing you to level up and equip them. With four races and a rich story featuring iconic characters like Arthas and Illidan, it also birthed the MOBA genre through its map editor.

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 global phenomenon, setting MOBA standards for over a decade. Despite recent challenges, its rich universe and the success of Arcane highlight its enduring impact. Loyal fans hope for a revival of its former glory.

Undertale

Image: steam.com

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

Undertale took the world by storm in 2015 with its deep, emotional story and unique mechanics that challenge conventional gameplay. Your choices shape the narrative, making you question violence and morality, accompanied by Toby Fox's captivating soundtrack.

Inscryption

Image: steam.com

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

Inscryption starts as a card roguelike in a dark cabin but evolves into a mind-bending experience. Sacrifice cards, explore the cabin, and uncover secrets that challenge your perception of reality, including battles involving your PC files and mysterious lore.

This War of Mine

Image: steam.com

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

This War of Mine puts you in the shoes of ordinary people surviving in a war-torn city. By day, you manage resources and mental health; by night, you scavenge, making tough decisions that test your morality and survival instincts.

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 in millions with its Warcraft-themed gameplay. Its visual design and music create a magical experience, contributing to its widespread popularity.

Stardew Valley

Image: steam.com

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

Stardew Valley, created by Eric Barone, offers simple joys like farming and befriending neighbors. Inherit an old farm and explore endless possibilities, from growing crops to adventuring in mines. Its pixel art and cozy atmosphere make it a game you'll want to revisit.

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 encourages reflection. Dive into mini-games created by a fictional developer, guided by a narrator. It's not about action or graphics but about exploring creativity and the human condition, best appreciated after playing The Stanley Parable.

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