Unveiling Metacritic’s Top Games of All Time: A Definitive Ranking

Ever wonder which video games truly stand out above the rest? It’s a question many of us gamers think about. We’re diving into Metacritic’s data to figure out the metacritic top games of all time. This isn’t just about what sold well, but what critics thought was truly great. We’ve looked at a bunch of information, focusing on how games were rated by critics. This list is all about finding those standout titles and the companies behind them.

Key Takeaways

• Capcom earned the top spot this year, largely thanks to a big Resident Evil remake.
• Thunderful made a big jump in the rankings, showing they had a strong year.
• Devolver Digital kept a good position, known for their unique game releases.
• Bethesda Softworks had a solid showing, with one of their games getting a high score.
• Electronic Arts and Microsoft (Xbox Game Studios) were also in the mix, with some highly-rated games.

1. Capcom

Capcom, a name that probably rings a bell for anyone who’s ever picked up a controller, has been around since 1983. They’ve put out a ton of games over the years, and some of their franchises are just massive. Think about it: Resident Evil, Monster Hunter, Street Fighter, Mega Man, Devil May Cry, and Ace Attorney. Those are some serious heavy hitters. They’ve got offices all over the place too, not just in Japan, but also in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. It’s a pretty big operation.

Capcom really made a splash in the 14th Annual Game Publisher Ranking by Metacritic, snagging the top spot for the second time, with the first being back in 2019. This ranking looks at a bunch of stuff, like the average score of a publisher’s games, how many good reviews versus bad reviews they get, and how many games hit that sweet 90 or higher Metascore. Capcom’s average Metascore was 84.5, which is pretty good. They had 25 products, but only 11 actual titles, and 84% of those were considered good, with 0% being bad. They also had three “great” games, which is a big deal. Their best game in 2023 was Resident Evil 4 on PS5, which scored a 93. That game alone sold over 7 million units since it came out in March 2023. Then there’s Street Fighter 6, which is a big deal in the esports world right now, and Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, which was a cool revival of an older game. It’s clear they’re focused on making games that people really enjoy, and they’re good at it. They’re always trying to make sure their games are top-notch, and it shows in these rankings. They’ve got a strong track record, and it seems like they’re just going to keep putting out more hits. If you’re into fighting games, you might want to check out Capcom’s newest fighting collection. It has some fan-favorite games like Capcom vs. SNK 2 and Project Justice.

2. Thunderful

Thunderful, a Swedish company, has been making some noise in the gaming world, especially with their recent releases. They’ve been putting out a mix of games, and it seems like they’re really trying to hit different tastes. It’s not just about one big hit for them; they’re building a catalog. Their strategy appears to be a diverse portfolio, which is pretty smart in today’s market.

Recent Releases

Thunderful has been busy, with a few titles coming out recently that have caught people’s attention. It’s interesting to see how they’re branching out.

• Blades of Fire: This one’s an action-adventure game, and it’s got some pretty cool visuals. People are talking about the combat system.
• Deliver at All Costs: A strategy game, which is a bit of a departure for them. It’s all about resource management and making tough decisions.
• Monster Train 2: This is a big one. The original Monster Train was a hit, and the sequel is looking to build on that success. It’s a deck-building roguelike, and it’s got a lot of depth. The game, released on May 21, 2025, involves powerful Titans taking over Heaven, forcing an alliance between angels and demons. Players command these clans on trains, journeying through Hell, Heaven, and the Abyss to defeat the Titans before they destroy the world. You can learn more about Monster Train 2 and its unique gameplay.

Metacritic Performance

When it comes to Metacritic, Thunderful has been doing okay. They’re not always at the top, but they’re consistently putting out games that get decent scores. It’s a good sign for a company that’s still growing.

These scores show that while they have some strong performers, there’s also room for improvement. It’s a competitive industry, and getting those high scores is tough.

Future Outlook

Thunderful seems to be on a good path. They’re not afraid to try new things, and they’re building a solid foundation. It’ll be interesting to see what they come up with next. They’ve got a few things in the pipeline, and if they keep up this pace, they could become a major player.

3. Devolver Digital

Devolver Digital has carved out a unique space in the gaming world, known for its quirky, often indie-focused titles. They’ve built a reputation for publishing games that might not fit the mainstream mold but often deliver memorable experiences. It’s not just about the games themselves; Devolver has a distinct brand identity, often leaning into a playful, almost rebellious attitude that resonates with a certain segment of the gaming community. They’re not afraid to take chances on smaller, more experimental projects, which is pretty cool in an industry often dominated by massive franchises.

Their approach to publishing seems to prioritize artistic vision and unique gameplay over chasing the biggest sales numbers, which is a refreshing change of pace. This strategy has led to some real gems over the years, even if not every game they put out becomes a massive hit. They’ve shown that there’s a market for games that are a bit different, and they’ve done a good job of cultivating a loyal following. It’s a testament to their curation that many gamers will check out a title just because it has the Devolver Digital logo on it. They’ve managed to create a sense of trust and expectation among their audience, which is a hard thing to do.

Their portfolio is pretty diverse, covering a lot of different genres and styles. You’ll find everything from fast-paced action games to more thoughtful, narrative-driven experiences. This variety keeps things interesting and means there’s usually something for everyone, even if their overall vibe is a bit niche. For example, they’ve published games that are known for:

• Unique art styles that stand out from the crowd.
• Challenging gameplay that rewards persistence.
• Strong, often quirky, narratives.
• Innovative mechanics that push boundaries.

While they might not always hit the highest Metacritic scores across the board, their consistent output of quality, distinct titles keeps them relevant. They’re a publisher that’s worth keeping an eye on if you’re looking for something a little bit different from the usual big-budget releases. For instance, GRIS is a five-hour single-sitting adventure that showcases their commitment to unique experiences.

4. Bethesda Softworks

A Mixed Bag of Releases

Bethesda Softworks, now part of Microsoft, had a pretty interesting year. They put out some real hits, but also a couple of games that didn’t quite land. It’s like they’re still figuring things out under the new ownership, even though they operate pretty independently. They’ve been around for a long time, so it’s always a bit of a surprise when something doesn’t go as planned.

The Highs and Lows of 2023

2023 was a bit of a rollercoaster for Bethesda. On one hand, they had some genuinely well-received titles. On the other, there were a couple of big releases that just didn’t live up to the hype. It really shows how even established publishers can have ups and downs.

• Hi-Fi Rush: This game was a pleasant surprise. It came out of nowhere and really impressed people with its unique rhythm-action gameplay and stylish visuals. It was a critical darling, scoring a 90 on Metacritic for its PC version. Definitely a highlight.
• Quake II (Enhanced Edition): Bringing back a classic like Quake II with enhancements was a smart move. Fans of the original got to revisit it with modern touches, and new players got to experience a piece of gaming history. It was well-received, showing that sometimes, going back to your roots pays off.
• Starfield: This was supposed to be the big one, the next massive RPG from Bethesda. It was their biggest launch ever, which is saying something for a company that’s been around for 36 years. However, it ended up being pretty divisive. While some people loved it, others found it a bit underwhelming, and player counts dropped off pretty quickly. It’s a huge game, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for everyone. Starfield had a lot of expectations riding on it.
• Redfall: This was probably the biggest disappointment. It was a new first-person shooter IP that just didn’t work. It was plagued with technical issues right from the start, and the design choices weren’t great either. It really struggled to find an audience and was widely considered a failure.

Metacritic Performance

Bethesda Softworks ended up with 308.3 points on Metacritic. Their average Metascore was 80.0, which is pretty good overall. Out of 12 products (which included 6 distinct titles), 83% were considered "good" and 0% were "bad." They only had one game that reached "Great" status, which was Hi-Fi Rush. It’s interesting to see how a few strong performers can balance out some of the less successful ones in the overall score.

5. Microsoft (Xbox Game Studios)

Microsoft, through its Xbox Game Studios, has been a major player in the gaming world for a long time. They’ve got a huge catalog of games, and they’re always trying to push the boundaries of what games can do. It’s not just about making games; it’s about creating entire ecosystems for players. They’ve been pretty consistent with their releases, and they often have a few big hits each year that really get people talking. Their commitment to expanding their game library and services has been a key part of their strategy.

A Look at Their Recent Performance

Microsoft’s performance in recent years has been interesting. They’ve had some ups and downs, but they’re always in the conversation when it comes to top publishers. They’ve been focusing a lot on their Game Pass service, which gives players access to a ton of games for a monthly fee. This has changed how many people play games, and it’s a big part of Microsoft’s overall strategy. They’re also really invested in cloud gaming, trying to make it so you can play their games pretty much anywhere. It’s a big gamble, but if it pays off, it could really change things.

Key Franchises and Impact

Microsoft has some seriously iconic game franchises under its belt. Think about it:

• Halo: This series basically defined console shooters for a generation. The story, the multiplayer, it all just clicked.
• Forza: If you like racing games, you know Forza. The graphics are amazing, and the driving feels super real.
• Gears of War: This one brought a whole new style of cover-based shooting to the table. It’s gritty, intense, and a lot of fun.

These games, and many others, have had a huge impact on the gaming industry. They’ve pushed technology forward, influenced other developers, and created massive fan bases. Microsoft’s influence goes beyond just their own games; they’ve shaped the entire landscape of console gaming. The board game market is a different beast, but in video games, Microsoft is a giant.

The Future of Xbox Game Studios

What’s next for Xbox Game Studios? Well, they’re definitely not slowing down. They’re still acquiring new studios, which means even more games are coming. They’re also putting a lot of effort into making their games more accessible to everyone, with features like adaptive controllers and more inclusive design. It seems like they’re trying to build a future where gaming is for everyone, no matter how you play. It’s a pretty ambitious goal, but if anyone can do it, it’s probably Microsoft.

6. Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts, or EA as most people know them, has been a big name in gaming for a long time. They’ve put out a ton of games, and some of them have been really popular. But, like any big company, they’ve had their ups and downs. Sometimes, they hit it out of the park with a game, and other times, well, not so much. It’s a mixed bag, really.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

EA has a history of both critical successes and some pretty big missteps. For every hit like Apex Legends or Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, there’s been a game that didn’t quite land right. Think about the SimCity launch back in 2013. That was a rough one. People couldn’t even play the game because of server issues, and EA ended up offering free games to make up for it. It even led to them being voted "Worst Company in America" by some users. That’s a tough title to get.

More recently, Battlefield 2042 had its own set of problems. Players were really unhappy with it, and there were even petitions for refunds. It just goes to show that even big companies can stumble. It’s a constant balancing act between making good games and dealing with all the technical stuff that comes with them.

Metacritic Performance

When you look at EA’s Metacritic scores, it’s pretty interesting. They’ve got a lot of games, so the average score can be a bit all over the place. They’ve had some games score really high, getting into that "great" category, but they’ve also had some that were just okay, or even not so good. It’s a reflection of their wide range of titles and how different games are received.

• Highs: Games like Dead Space (the remake) have scored really well, showing they can still deliver top-tier experiences.
• Lows: Some of their online-focused games have struggled with launches, leading to lower scores and player frustration.
• Consistency: It’s hard to pin down a consistent trend because they release so many different types of games, from sports titles to action-adventure.

What’s Next for EA?

EA is always working on something new. They’ve got their big sports franchises like FIFA (now EA Sports FC) and Madden NFL, which are always popular. They also continue to explore new ideas and expand existing series. It’s a constant cycle of development and release. The gaming world is always changing, and EA has to keep up with it. They’re a major player, and what they do definitely impacts the industry. For example, you can find some of their top-rated PC games on Metacritic right now. It’s always a wait-and-see game with them, but they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.

7. Microids

Microids, a French video game publisher, has been around for a while, but their 2023 performance on Metacritic wasn’t exactly stellar. They ended up at number 45 out of 45 publishers, which is pretty low. It seems like they had a tough year, especially since they didn’t release any games that scored well with critics. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher how a company can put out multiple titles and not one of them manages to hit that "good" score range.

2023 Performance Overview

Microids’ average Metascore for 2023 was 61.8, which is in the yellow, or mixed, range. They released 14 products, but these only represented 8 distinct titles. Out of those 8 titles, none of them were considered "good" (meaning a Metascore of 75 or higher), and 14% were actually rated as "bad" (a Metascore of 49 or lower). They also didn’t have any "Great" games, which would require a Metascore of 90 or more. Their best game in 2023 was Agatha Christie – Murder on the Orient Express for PC, which got a 74. It’s a shame, because a good murder mystery game can be really engaging.

Challenges and Outlook

It’s clear Microids faced some significant hurdles in 2023. Being the only publisher with five or more scored titles that didn’t manage a single positively-reviewed game is a tough spot to be in. This kind of performance can really impact a publisher’s reputation and future releases. They’ll need to figure out what went wrong and adjust their strategy for upcoming projects. Maybe they need to focus more on quality control or pick up different types of games. It’ll be interesting to see if they can turn things around in the coming years.

and more

Nintendo

Nintendo, a name synonymous with video games, has been a major player for decades. They’ve consistently pushed the boundaries of what gaming can be, often focusing on unique gameplay experiences rather than just raw power. Think about the Wii, for example. It wasn’t the most powerful console, but its motion controls changed how many people interacted with games. Or the Switch, which blurred the lines between home console and portable gaming. Their commitment to innovation and family-friendly titles has earned them a loyal fanbase and a strong presence on Metacritic’s top lists.

Nintendo’s approach often involves creating new ways to play, which sometimes means taking risks. Not every idea is a home run, but when they hit, they hit big. Their first-party titles, like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario, are almost always critically acclaimed. These games aren’t just fun; they often set new standards for their genres. It’s pretty cool how they keep finding ways to make familiar characters feel fresh and exciting. The gaming console market has seen a lot of changes over the years, but Nintendo has always found a way to stay relevant.

Sony (PlayStation Studios)

Sony’s PlayStation brand has been a powerhouse in the gaming world since its debut. They’ve built a reputation for delivering cinematic, story-driven experiences with stunning graphics. If you’re looking for a game that feels like a blockbuster movie, chances are you’ll find it on a PlayStation console. They’ve also been really good at attracting top developers to create exclusive titles for their platforms.

Their strategy often involves focusing on high-fidelity visuals and immersive narratives. This has led to some truly memorable games that have pushed the technical limits of their consoles. Think about games like God of War or The Last of Us. These aren’t just games; they’re experiences that stick with you long after you’ve finished playing. Sony has also been pretty aggressive with their console releases, always trying to stay ahead of the curve. It’s a competitive space, but they’ve managed to hold their own.

Valve

Valve might not release as many games as some of the other companies on this list, but when they do, they tend to be incredibly impactful. They’re known for their innovative game design and their commitment to player experience. They also run Steam, which is basically the biggest digital storefront for PC games out there. So, even if they aren’t making a ton of new games, they’re still a huge part of the gaming ecosystem.

Their games often feature unique mechanics and deep, engaging narratives. They’re not afraid to experiment, and that’s what makes their titles so special. For example, Portal 2 is a masterclass in puzzle design and witty writing. And Half-Life 2 is still considered one of the best first-person shooters ever made. They also have a strong focus on community and modding, which has helped extend the life of their games for years. It’s a different approach than some of the bigger publishers, but it clearly works for them.

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it. Looking at Metacritic’s top games really shows us what makes a game great, according to the critics anyway. It’s not just about flashy graphics or big names; it’s about the whole package. These games, the ones that stick around at the top, they just hit different. They give us something special, whether it’s a story that stays with you or gameplay that’s just super fun. It’s pretty cool to see how these rankings change, or don’t change, over time. It makes you think about what games will be on this list years from now. What do you think? Did your favorites make the cut?

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Metacritic figure out which games are the best?

Metacritic looks at how good games are based on what many different game critics say. They give each game a score, and then they average those scores to decide which games are the best.

Do game sales or player reviews count in Metacritic’s rankings?

No, Metacritic only uses what game critics say. They don’t look at how many copies a game sells or what regular players think of it.

What makes a game “great” according to Metacritic?

A “great” game on Metacritic means it got a score of 90 or higher. Also, at least seven different critics need to have reviewed it.

What’s the difference between a “product” and a “title” in these rankings?

If a game comes out on different systems, like PlayStation and Xbox, Metacritic counts each version as a separate “product.” But if it’s the same game, it’s only one “title.”

What do “good” and “bad” reviews mean for the scores?

A “good” review means a game got a Metascore of 75 or higher. A “bad” review means the score was 49 or lower.

Are games for phones included in these rankings?

No, these rankings only include games that are played on computers or game consoles. Mobile games, which are played on phones or tablets, are not included.