From the days of arcade cabinets and pixelated sprites to today’s photorealistic open worlds and sprawling online universes, the phrase “best games” has always been a moving target. What defines greatness in a game can vary wildly depending on the era: technical innovation, slot narrative depth, multiplayer appeal, or sheer fun. At different times, Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Half‑Life 2, Dark Souls, and modern blockbusters like The Last of Us Part II have all vied for that top spot. Underlying this shifting landscape is a deeper question: can a game ever be universally “best,” or is greatness inherently subjective?
Still, there are certain threads that tie together those titles widely regarded as “best”: they push boundaries in at least one dimension—mechanics, storytelling, world design, or emotional resonance. For example, a procedurally generated roguelike that nails meaningful systems might be hailed as “best” by niche fans even if it lacks the polish or cinematic storytelling of mainstream blockbusters. On the other hand, a cinematic narrative-driven game might win over more casual players because of accessibility and emotional hooks.
Another shift over time is how we discover and evaluate “best games.” Early on, print magazines, word of mouth, and demo discs were the main sources of recommendation. Now algorithmic suggestions, streaming, social media, and user reviews heavily influence what games rise to prominence. That means some excellent games slip under the radar simply because they lack visibility or marketing. Yet those hidden gems often become cult favorites, whispered among dedicated fans and rediscovered years later.
One consequence is that “best games” lists tend to favor recent or still‑active titles, making retrospective rankings tricky. A game from 20 years ago might feel dated now, but in its time it could have redefined genres or inspired entire generations. Critics often balance criteria—historical importance, enduring fun, technical achievements, and influence—to arrive at a more holistic idea of “best.” Thus, two lists labeled “best games” from different decades might diverge significantly.
Importantly, the platforms we play on and the constraints they impose also shape which games can be considered among the best. A game designed for a handheld device must optimize for shorter play sessions, limited controls, and hardware constraints, while a console or PC game can leverage richer graphics, deeper systems, and longer campaigns. This is why when we discuss “best games,” it’s worth specifying which platform or genre we are referring to.
In sum, while we can’t definitively crown one single “best game of all time” that satisfies every player, the discussion itself—about innovation, design, emotional impact—is part of what makes gaming culture vibrant. When we talk about “best games,” we’re really exploring the diverse ways in which interactive media can surprise, challenge, and move us.