The 21st century has seen an unprecedented surge in the world of video games. With technological advancements and creative innovation, game developers have crafted immersive and captivating experiences that have left a lasting impact on gamers worldwide.
In this article, we will delve into the 50 best video games to play in the 21st century, exploring the diverse genres, outstanding narratives, and groundbreaking gameplay that have defined this era of gaming.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
Kicking off our list is an iconic title that redefined open-world gaming. “Breath of the Wild” offers players a vast, breathtaking landscape to explore, with a perfect blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
Geralt of Rivia’s epic adventure is a masterpiece in storytelling. “The Witcher 3” combines a gripping narrative with a rich, living world, making it one of the most celebrated RPGs of the century.
3. Grand Theft Auto V (2013)
Rockstar Games’ magnum opus, “GTA V,” brings players to the sprawling city of Los Santos. Its engaging story, diverse characters, and open-world exploration have set a benchmark for the gaming industry.
4. Mass Effect 2 (2010)
BioWare’s space opera, “Mass Effect 2,” is hailed for its compelling characters, intricate decision-making, and impactful consequences. The game seamlessly blends action, RPG elements, and a gripping narrative.
5. Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)
Another Rockstar Games entry, “Red Dead Redemption 2,” takes players to the American Wild West. With its stunning visuals, immersive world, and captivating tale of redemption, it stands as a testament to the evolving capabilities of video game storytelling.
6. Dark Souls (2011)
Known for its challenging gameplay and atmospheric world, “Dark Souls” revolutionized action RPGs. Its tough-as-nails difficulty and intricate level design have influenced countless games in the genre.
7. Portal 2 (2011)
Valve’s puzzle platform, “Portal 2,” is a triumph in game design. The ingenious portal mechanics, coupled with a witty narrative, make it a standout title in the puzzle genre.
8. Overwatch (2016)
Blizzard’s team-based shooter, “Overwatch,” introduced a diverse cast of characters and unique abilities. Its emphasis on teamwork and engaging gameplay has solidified its place as a competitive gaming phenomenon.
9. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
“Skyrim” is an open-world masterpiece, offering players an expansive, fantastical realm to explore. Its modding community further extends its longevity, showcasing the power of player creativity in the gaming landscape.
10. Minecraft (2011)
“Minecraft” is a cultural phenomenon, allowing players to unleash their creativity in a blocky sandbox world. Its simplicity and limitless possibilities have made it one of the best-selling games of all time.
11. The Last of Us (2013)
Naughty Dog’s emotional rollercoaster, “The Last of Us,” blends intense action with a gripping narrative. Its portrayal of post-apocalyptic survival and the bond between Joel and Ellie resonates with players on a profound level.
12. Super Mario Galaxy (2007)
Nintendo’s iconic plumber takes to the cosmos in “Super Mario Galaxy.” This platformer offers imaginative-level design and gravity-defying gameplay, showcasing Nintendo’s unparalleled creativity.
13. Fallout: New Vegas (2010)
Obsidian Entertainment’s take on the Fallout universe, “New Vegas,” is praised for its branching narrative and complex choices. It stands as a shining example of player agency in storytelling.
14. Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)
Master Chief’s debut in “Halo: Combat Evolved” revolutionized the first-person shooter genre on consoles. Its compelling story, innovative mechanics, and memorable multiplayer laid the foundation for a gaming juggernaut.
15. Undertale (2015)
“Undertale” subverts traditional RPG expectations with its unique combat system and emphasis on player choices. Toby Fox’s indie gem has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its humor, heart, and unconventional approach to storytelling.
16. NieR: Automata (2017)
Yoko Taro’s “NieR: Automata” blends action RPG elements with an existential narrative. Its thought-provoking themes and multiple endings contribute to its status as a modern classic.
17. BioShock (2007)
“BioShock” takes players to the underwater city of Rapture, combining atmospheric storytelling with immersive gameplay. Its narrative twists and moral choices continue to resonate with players.
18. FIFA series (2001-present)
EA Sports’ “FIFA” series has been a staple in sports gaming, consistently delivering realistic football simulation and engaging multiplayer experiences.
19. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (2003)
BioWare’s “Knights of the Old Republic” set the standard for Star Wars RPGs. Its compelling story, memorable characters, and moral decisions have left an enduring legacy.
20. Civilization V (2010)
Sid Meier’s “Civilization V” offers a deep strategy experience, allowing players to build and lead their civilization. Its addictive “just one more turn” gameplay has made it a time-tested favorite.
21. Pokémon GO (2016)
Niantic’s augmented reality sensation, “Pokémon GO,” brought the beloved franchise to the real world, encouraging exploration and social interaction through mobile gaming.
22. Half-Life 2 (2004)
Valve’s “Half-Life 2” is a landmark in first-person shooter storytelling. With its innovative physics-based gameplay and immersive narrative, it remains a high-water mark for the genre.
23. Monster Hunter: World (2018)
Capcom’s “Monster Hunter: World” redefined the action RPG genre with its cooperative monster-slaying gameplay and deep customization options.
24. Street Fighter IV (2009)
“Street Fighter IV” revitalized the fighting game scene with its accessible yet deep mechanics. Its impact on the competitive fighting game community is still felt today.
25. Persona 5 (2016)
Atlus’ “Persona 5” combines stylish visuals with a compelling narrative and addictive dungeon-crawling gameplay, making it a standout in the JRPG genre.
26. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018)
Ubisoft’s historical epic, “Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey,” offers a vast open world, intricate storytelling, and the ability to shape the narrative through player choices.
27. Fortnite (2017)
Epic Games’ “Fortnite” revolutionized the battle royale genre, blending fast-paced action with building mechanics. Its cultural impact extends beyond gaming into mainstream entertainment.
28. Divinity: Original Sin 2 (2017)
Larian Studios’ “Divinity: Original Sin 2” is a masterclass in CRPG design, offering a rich, choice-driven narrative and deep tactical combat.
29. The Sims 4 (2014)
Maxis’ life simulation series, “The Sims 4,” allows players to create and control virtual lives, offering a unique and relaxing gaming experience.
30. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015)
Hideo Kojima’s swan song with the Metal Gear series, “The Phantom Pain,” blends stealth, open-world exploration, and a complex narrative, showcasing Kojima’s signature style.
31. Resident Evil 4 (2005)
Capcom’s “Resident Evil 4” redefined the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and intense, atmospheric gameplay.
32. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End (2016)
Naughty Dog’s cinematic action-adventure, “Uncharted 4,” delivers stunning visuals, intense set-pieces, and a satisfying conclusion to Nathan Drake’s journey.
33. Fire Emblem: Three Houses (2019)
Intelligent Systems’ “Fire Emblem: Three Houses” combines tactical RPG gameplay with a rich school-life simulation, creating a unique and compelling experience.
34. Doom (2016)
Id Software’s reboot of the classic shooter, “Doom,” brings fast-paced, visceral action to a new generation of gamers, earning acclaim for its relentless gameplay.
35. World of Warcraft (2004)
Blizzard’s MMORPG juggernaut, “World of Warcraft,” has kept players immersed in the rich fantasy world of Azeroth for over a decade, setting the standard for online multiplayer experiences.
36. Kingdom Hearts (2002)
Square Enix’s crossover of Disney and Final Fantasy worlds, “Kingdom Hearts,” blends action RPG gameplay with a heartwarming narrative, capturing the hearts of players young and old.
37. Celeste (2018)
Maddy Makes Games’ “Celeste” is a platformer that transcends its genre, combining tight controls with a touching story about mental health and perseverance.
38. Splatoon 2 (2017)
Nintendo’s ink-based shooter, “Splatoon 2,” offers a fresh take on the multiplayer shooter genre with its unique mechanics and colorful aesthetic.
39. Stardew Valley (2016)
ConcernedApe’s “Stardew Valley” provides a peaceful and addictive farming simulation, allowing players to escape into a charming pixelated world.
40. Gears of War 2 (2008)
Epic Games’ “Gears of War 2” delivers intense third-person shooter action and a compelling story, solidifying the series as a cornerstone of Xbox gaming.
41. Oxenfree (2016)
Night School Studio’s supernatural thriller, “Oxenfree,” is praised for its gripping narrative, innovative dialogue system, and atmospheric exploration.
42. Gravity Rush (2012)
Japan Studio’s “Gravity Rush” introduces a gravity-defying mechanic in an open-world setting, offering a unique and visually stunning experience.
43. XCOM 2 (2016)
Firaxis Games “XCOM 2”, a turn-based strategy masterpiece that challenges players to lead a resistance against an alien occupation.
44. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (2004)
Insomniac Games’ “Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal” combines humor, inventive weaponry, and platforming in a sci-fi adventure that has stood the test of time.
45. Cuphead (2017)
Studio MDHR’s “Cuphead” pays homage to 1930s animation with its challenging run-and-gun gameplay and visually stunning art style.
46. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019)
FromSoftware’s “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” offers a challenging and masterfully crafted samurai experience, blending precision combat with a captivating story.
47. Dead Space (2008)
Visceral Games’ “Dead Space” delivers a tense and atmospheric survival horror experience in the depths of space, earning acclaim for its chilling narrative and innovative mechanics.
48. The Stanley Parable (2013)
Davey Wreden’s “The Stanley Parable” is a thought-provoking exploration of choice and narrative, challenging traditional gaming conventions.
49. Bastion (2011)
Supergiant Games “Bastion” combines stunning hand-painted visuals with dynamic narration, creating an action RPG with a unique and memorable style.
50. Outer Wilds (2019)
Mobius Digital’s “Outer Wilds” offers an exploration-driven adventure with a time-loop mechanic, challenging players to uncover the mysteries of a miniature solar system.
The 21st century has given rise to a golden age of video gaming, with developers pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable experiences. From the vast open worlds of “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” to the emotional narratives of “The Last of Us,” these 50 games represent the pinnacle of digital entertainment.
As technology resumes to advance, one can only imagine the incredible gaming experiences the future holds. As we celebrate these masterpieces, let us eagerly anticipate the next surge of innovation that will shape the landscape of gaming for years to come.
