In the world of gaming, few things are as universal as the pursuit of the “best” games. What defines a game as the best? For many, it’s not just about stunning visuals or expansive worlds, but about the immersive experiences, complex narratives, and innovative mechanics that make certain titles stand out. Throughout the history of video games, several titles have left a lasting legacy, becoming benchmarks for what the medium is capable of. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, wargatoto The Last of Us, Super Mario 64, and Red Dead Redemption 2 all exemplify different facets of gaming excellence, from storytelling to world-building to pure gameplay.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a masterclass in exploration. Nintendo’s open-world design redefined how players engage with virtual spaces. Unlike many open-world games, it allows for complete freedom—players can climb mountains, explore forests, and tackle puzzles in any order they wish. This level of non-linearity, paired with a stunning art style and a deep sense of discovery, has made Breath of the Wild a touchstone for all future open-world games. It’s not just a game, but an experience, one where every corner of the map feels alive with potential.
Meanwhile, The Last of Us stands as an example of how video games can elevate storytelling to a cinematic level. Its gripping narrative, combined with the strong chemistry between its main characters, Joel and Ellie, created an emotional depth that was rarely seen in the medium at the time. The game’s somber depiction of a post-apocalyptic world, with its focus on human relationships and survival, resonated with players and critics alike. Its success also paved the way for more games to invest in rich storytelling, making emotional engagement a core part of the experience.
Then there’s Red Dead Redemption 2, an opus of world-building and narrative depth. Rockstar Games took their formula of open-world design to a new level, creating a game world that feels alive with detail, from the weather systems to the dynamic animal behaviors. The story itself, about the decline of the outlaw era, is gripping and poignant. The protagonist, Arthur Morgan, is a nuanced character, and his journey offers profound reflections on morality, loyalty, and the inevitability of change. The attention to detail in Red Dead Redemption 2 makes it not just a game, but a living, breathing world.
As gaming continues to evolve, these iconic titles are a reminder of what is possible when game developers push the boundaries of what video games can do. Whether it’s the vast open worlds of Breath of the Wild and Red Dead Redemption 2, or the rich storytelling of The Last of Us, these games have shaped the industry and set the bar for what players can expect from the medium.
