There is a constant debate among fans for what is the best game ever. In this article, I will be looking at a more objective stance by running down the top 10 highest-rated video games of all time according to review aggregator Metacritic. Who do you expect to feature on the list? Comment before reading and let us know.
These ratings are accurate via Metacritic as of the time of writing. I am ranking based on Metascore with any ties being decided by user score, which if tied will be decided by who has more reviews.
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10 Highest-Rated Video Games of All Time
Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild
With a 97 rating, this is definitively one of the 10 greatest games of all time. It edges out the competition thanks to an 8.7 user score, tied with some other less-reviewed titles. Many people consider this to be the best open-world RPG of all time thanks to its huge map, luscious visuals and the hundreds of different things to do in Hyrule.
Its sequel Tears of The Kingdom is in many ways an upgrade but has a 95 out of 100 Metascore taking it out of contention for the top 10 highest-rated video games of all time list.
9. Perfect Dark
Probably one of the least known titles on this list. This first person shooter is considered by many to be the best action game ever released. As an N64 title it drew a lot of comparisons to Goldeneye with reviewers calling it a sequel to that legendary title that improved on its gameplay in every way.
8. Super Mario Odyssey
The Nintendo Switch enters the list with the exquisite Super Mario Odyssey. Mario’s gameplay has always worked well in the 3D space but this game completely reimagined the franchise with the addition of Cappy. The new abilities and movements unlocked by the addition of Cappy make this one of the most fun games to traverse.
7. Metroid Prime
The game that kickstarted an iconic franchise. Action games get their second entry with this sci-fi title that mixed platforming with intriguing storytelling and addictive action. It also offers a lot of replay value and fun gameplay that will keep you coming back for more.
6. Super Mario Galaxy 2
As I said before, Super Mario had always excelled in the 3D world, this isn’t the last we’ll see of him either. Mario Galaxy 2 took all of the innovations made by the first title and build on it, with the hub world being replaced by a much quicker system and the galaxy themed gameplay continuing to amaze.
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5. Super Mario Galaxy
The original Galaxy game just edges out its sequel to finish in fifth. Both games have the exact same metascore and user score, which says a lot about the consistency of the series. The original game has more user reviews so just pips the second one to the fifth spot.
This was the game that first took the 3D Mario series in a different direction and it absolutely knocked it out of the park. Its well crafted levels, different themes, power ups, and strong gameplay wowed fans on the Wii and continue to wow players today.
4. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Remembered to this day for its gameplay and banging soundtracks Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 perfected an aesthetic and had many youngsters all over the world addicted to skateboarding.
3. Grand Theft Auto IV
Surprisingly rated higher than GTA V, Grand Theft Auto IV was a massive statement of intent from Rockstar Games. It was a stepping stone towards GTA V as it extended the open world from previous entires, refined the mechanics and offered a very well flowing story mode.
2. SoulCaliber
Despite being a series that has faded over time SoulCaliber holds the distinction of the being the second highest-rated video game of all time. It is heralded by many as the greatest fighting game of all time thanks to its clever inclusion of weapons which added a whole new dynamic to the gameplay. It also made perfect use of the graphical capabilities of the Dreamcast and pushed it to the limit.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
While folks are currently busy proclaiming Tears of the Kingdom as the greatest game of all time, it is another of Link’s adventures that currently holds the top spot. With a whopping 99 out of 100 Metascore it is difficult to see anything beating Ocarina of time anytime soon.
What makes this game the number one rated in history? It is perfect in almost every way. The storytelling is masterful, the graphics are immersive, even the audio makes you feel like you’re in Link’s boots. It is challenging, the characters are interesting, the dungeons are unique, there is truly nothing that this title doesn’t pull off effortlessly.
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