Throughout the history of gaming, certain titles have risen above the rest to become defining moments in the medium’s evolution. These games, often referred to as the “best games,” have not only impressed players with their innovative mechanics, captivating narratives, and unforgettable characters, but have also influenced the future of the gaming industry. From early arcade hits to modern masterpieces, these games have shaped what we know as video games today, and continue to be enjoyed by players new and old alike.
One such game that has stood the test of time is Super Mario Bros.. Released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Mario Bros. introduced the world to Mario, a character that would become synonymous with gaming itself. The game was revolutionary for its time, introducing smooth side-scrolling mechanics, vibrant environments, and tight platforming controls that set the standard for platformers to come. The simplicity of its design, combined with its iconic level structure, made it accessible to a wide range of players, and its widespread success helped lay the groundwork for the gaming boom of the 80s and 90s. Super Mario Bros. became not only one of the best games of its era but also one of the most influential in shaping the direction of the industry.
Fast forward to the late 90s and early 2000s, and Final Fantasy VII emerged as a game-changing title in the RPG genre. Released by Square Enix (formerly Square), Final Fantasy VII introduced players to a detailed, expansive world with rich turbopragma500 lore, deeply complex characters, and an emotionally charged narrative. Cloud Strife, the protagonist, and his companions fight against the megacorporation Shinra and the villainous Sephiroth, all while exploring a world on the brink of environmental collapse. What set Final Fantasy VII apart was its deep storytelling, cinematic cutscenes, and turn-based combat system that engaged players in a way that no previous game had. It became a touchstone for RPGs, influencing countless other games that followed, and remains a favorite for fans of the genre even today.
In the more recent era of gaming, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as a prime example of how expansive open-world RPGs can combine intricate storytelling with deep, immersive gameplay. Released in 2015 by CD Projekt Red, The Witcher 3 follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter caught in a world at war. The game is known for its branching narrative, where players’ choices can influence the outcome of key events. Its open world, filled with monsters, moral dilemmas, and rich character interactions, sets a new standard for how players experience fantasy worlds. The game’s expansive lore, beautiful art design, and deep, challenging gameplay mechanics helped it become one of the best games of the decade. Its impact on RPGs and open-world games is immeasurable, influencing the design of many titles that followed it.
These games—Super Mario Bros., Final Fantasy VII, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt—have all shaped the landscape of gaming. They have not only been commercially successful but have also had a profound impact on the gaming community and future developers. The best games are those that transcend their era, offering players something memorable and innovative that resonates for years. Whether through groundbreaking mechanics, emotional storytelling, or expansive worlds, these games continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers everywhere.