Some games, like cherished friends, remain with us for years; their soundtracks become ingrained in our memories, and moments of triumph or defeat still send shivers down our spines. Others blaze across the industry like meteors, setting new standards. But how do we choose the "best"? For some, the perfect game is a nostalgic childhood adventure; for others, it's a multiplayer masterpiece that united thousands. We've compiled a list of the greatest games of all time, their status confirmed by the most reputable ratings.

We also invite you to explore our curated selections of games across various genres:

**Survival | Horror | Simulators | Shooters | Platformer**

Table of Contents ---

Half-Life 2

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

Half-Life 2, a legendary first-person shooter from Valve (2004), casts you as Gordon Freeman, a silent scientist thrust into an alien-occupied world. Your journey extends beyond shooting; you'll solve puzzles, interact with the environment, and wield the iconic gravity gun. The gripping narrative and immersive atmosphere, depicting humanity's struggle for survival, remain remarkably realistic. Even today, the game's advanced physics engine stands the test of time, and its intelligent enemies challenge you with strategic thinking and unpredictable tactics.

Portal 2

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

Portal 2 is a delightful blend of mind-bending puzzles and sharp wit. GLaDOS, the sarcastic and sinister AI, provides constant comedic torment, while Wheatley, a charming yet infuriating robot companion, adds to the memorable experience. Their interactions are a source of lasting amusement. The puzzles progressively increase in complexity, introducing new mechanics like surface-altering gels and light bridges that add layers of strategic depth. The addition of multiplayer in the sequel further enhances its replayability.

Diablo II

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

Diablo II (2000) isn't just a game; it's a cultural landmark. Blizzard's instant classic set the standard for the ARPG genre. Explore a dark, gothic world brimming with ominous secrets as you choose a hero and embark on a perilous journey. Combat monsters, amass loot, and grow stronger in this endlessly addictive experience. The constant thrill of acquiring new weapons and upgrading skills provides a satisfying loop, ensuring its continued relevance through re-releases, mods, and a dedicated fanbase.

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 invites you into a richly detailed and expansive world. Play as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter adept at swordplay and magic. The quests are more than simple fetch quests; each unfolds as a complete story with compelling characters and surprising twists. The game presents players with complex moral dilemmas, forcing reflection on the concepts of right and wrong. Critically acclaimed for its immersive atmosphere, deep narrative, and well-developed characters, The Witcher 3 remains 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's enduring popularity stems from its engaging gameplay loop. Lead a civilization through the ages, from the Stone Age to the Space Age. Build cities, advance science and culture, manage your economy, and forge alliances or wage war against your neighbors. Each playthrough offers a unique experience thanks to randomly generated maps and diverse civilizations, leading to countless hours of strategic gameplay. Expansions like "Gods & Kings" and "Brave New World" further enhance the depth and complexity.

Fallout 3

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

Released in 2008, Fallout 3 remains a definitive open-world Action/RPG. Emerging from Vault 101, you explore the ruins of Washington D.C., encountering mutants, bandits, and complete freedom of choice. The game's immersive atmosphere, featuring retro music, decaying environments, and a palpable sense of radiation, creates a lasting impact. Fallout 3 is more than a cult classic; it's a nostalgic experience, a familiar friend to revisit.

BioShock

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

BioShock transcends the typical action shooter. Immerse yourself in a distorted 1960s setting, where jazz music, propaganda posters, and unseen horrors create a haunting atmosphere. Every detail, from doors to wall inscriptions, contributes to a dark and mysterious narrative. The game's imagery and ambiguous storytelling continue to spark discussion and analysis, leaving an enduring impression on players.

Red Dead Redemption 2

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

Rockstar Games spared no expense in creating Red Dead Redemption 2. As Arthur Morgan, a hardened outlaw, you experience the dying era of the Wild West. The vast and immersive world allows for hours of exploration and immersion, encouraging players to forge their own path. Your choices shape your character's destiny, determining whether you become a noble gunslinger or a notorious villain.

Dark Souls 2

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

Dark Souls II (2014) caters to players who relish challenging gameplay. Explore the unforgiving kingdom of Drangleic, where death is a constant companion. Difficulty is integral to the game's design, forcing players to learn from their mistakes and adapt their strategies. The souls of fallen enemies become your currency, allowing you to upgrade your character or risk losing everything upon death.

Doom Eternal

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

Doom Eternal is pure, unadulterated adrenaline. Run, gun, and explode your way through hordes of demonic enemies. The game prioritizes intense action and satisfying gameplay over complex narratives or survival mechanics. The frenetic pace, coupled with a diverse arsenal of weapons, delivers a thrilling and visceral experience.

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 a sprawling RPG where your choices shape the narrative. Create a custom character, assemble a party, and embark on an epic adventure filled with dragons, magic, and intrigue. The game's extensive dialogue system allows for meaningful interactions and consequences, offering a high degree of player agency.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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

Skyrim's legendary status is well-deserved. Its vast and ever-evolving world offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Climb mountains, delve into dungeons, and battle dragons in a game where your journey is defined by your choices.

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. Engage in thrilling shootouts, make decisions that affect the fate of planets, and forge relationships with alien companions. The game's emotional depth and impactful choices create a memorable and personal experience.

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. Follow the main storyline or create your own chaos in the sprawling city of Los Santos. Fly a jetpack, race against police, or cause mayhem – the choice is yours.

Resident Evil 4

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

Resident Evil 4 redefined survival horror, blending classic elements with dynamic action. Experience thrilling shootouts, solve puzzles, and confront memorable bosses in a constantly evolving environment.

Disco Elysium

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

Disco Elysium is a narrative-driven RPG focusing on introspection and complex choices. As a detective, you investigate a murder while grappling with your own inner demons. The game's unique art style and philosophical depth create a truly unforgettable experience.

RimWorld

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

RimWorld is a challenging colony simulator where you manage a group of survivors in a harsh environment. Tend to their needs, build your base, and make difficult moral choices to ensure their survival. The game's unpredictable events and emergent storytelling provide endless replayability.

Dwarf Fortress

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

Dwarf Fortress is a seminal sandbox game that inspired countless others. Manage a colony of dwarves, build your fortress, and navigate the challenges of a procedurally generated world. The game's complex systems and emergent gameplay offer a unique and rewarding experience.

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 a vast and ever-expanding world filled with adventure. Explore diverse locations, complete quests, battle monsters, and participate in player-versus-player combat. The game's rich lore, engaging community, and constant updates have cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon.

StarCraft

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

StarCraft set the standard for real-time strategy games. Build your base, gather resources, create an army, and outmaneuver your opponent in this strategic and demanding game that became a global esports phenomenon.

Minecraft

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

Minecraft's blocky world offers unparalleled creative freedom. Build anything you can imagine, explore vast landscapes, and battle monsters in this endlessly replayable sandbox game.

Spore

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

Spore is a unique life simulation game where you guide a creature through various stages of evolution. The game's powerful creature and vehicle editors allow for immense creativity and personalization.

Warcraft III

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

Warcraft III introduced hero units to the real-time strategy genre, adding a new layer of depth and strategy. The game's memorable characters and innovative gameplay mechanics have left a lasting impact on the genre.

League of Legends

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

League of Legends is a massively popular MOBA, known for its diverse roster of champions and competitive gameplay. The game's influence extends beyond gaming, with the animated series "Arcane" achieving critical acclaim.

Undertale

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

Undertale is a unique RPG where your choices significantly impact the narrative. The game's memorable characters, emotional story, and innovative mechanics have made it a cult classic.

Inscryption

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

Inscryption is a unique card game with meta-layers that blur the lines between gameplay and reality. The game's constantly shifting mechanics and unexpected twists create a truly unforgettable 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 offers a stark and realistic portrayal of civilian life during wartime. Manage resources, make difficult moral choices, and strive for survival in a city ravaged by conflict.

Hearthstone

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

Hearthstone is a popular collectible card game based on the Warcraft universe. Its accessible gameplay and engaging mechanics have made it a global phenomenon.

Stardew Valley

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

Stardew Valley is a charming farming simulator that offers a relaxing and rewarding experience. Tend to your farm, befriend villagers, and explore the mysteries of the surrounding area.

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 a unique and thought-provoking game that explores themes of creativity, self-discovery, and the nature of art.

The greatest games of all time aren't merely genre-defining masterpieces; they are living narratives that unite generations. While this list may evolve, each entry has undeniably etched its name into gaming history – and perhaps into your heart.