So, you’re curious about the best games ever, according to Metacritic? It’s a pretty big deal when a game gets a high score on there. It means a lot of people who play games and write about them really liked it. We’ve looked at the data to put together a list of the top games of all time, based on those scores. It’s a good way to see what’s considered the best of the best. Let’s check out the top 10.
Key Takeaways
- Grand Theft Auto V holds the top spot, showing its lasting appeal.
- Persona 5 Royal is recognized for its unique RPG experience.
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is celebrated for its updated graphics and gameplay.
- God of War offers a new setting and a story about Kratos and his son.
- Red Dead Redemption provides an open-world Western adventure.
1. Grand Theft Auto V
The King of Open Worlds
It’s hard to talk about modern gaming without mentioning Grand Theft Auto V. This game just keeps on giving, even years after its initial release. It’s a massive, detailed world that feels alive, packed with things to do and see. You can follow the main story, which is a wild ride involving three very different characters – Franklin, Michael, and Trevor – as they pull off increasingly elaborate heists. Or, you can just mess around in Los Santos, which is basically a parody of Los Angeles. The sheer amount of side activities is staggering, from playing tennis and golf to engaging in stock market manipulation and property acquisition. It really offers something for everyone, whether you’re into the story or just want to cause some chaos. The online component, GTA Online, has also been a huge draw, constantly updated with new content that keeps players coming back for more. It’s a game that truly redefined what an open-world experience could be, offering endless hours of entertainment. If you haven’t played it yet, you’re missing out on a huge piece of gaming history. You can find out more about its impact on gaming culture.
Key Features:
- Three distinct protagonists with unique storylines.
- A vast, explorable open world with incredible detail.
- A robust online mode that continues to evolve.
- A wide variety of side missions and activities.
A Look at the Scores
Metacritic scores are a big deal, and GTA V consistently ranks at the top. It’s a testament to the quality and polish Rockstar Games put into this title. The game earned a Metascore of 97, which is incredibly high and reflects the critical acclaim it received across the board. This score is a combination of reviews from various publications, all praising its ambitious scope, engaging narrative, and technical achievements. It really set a new standard for what players expected from a AAA title.
2. Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal really took the gaming world by storm, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. It’s not just a game; it feels like a whole lifestyle. You play as Joker, leading the Phantom Thieves of Hearts, a group of high school students who are basically vigilantes fighting against corrupt adults. The story is super engaging, mixing everyday school life with these wild, supernatural heists in a place called the Metaverse. The game masterfully balances its stylish presentation with a surprisingly deep narrative.
What makes it stand out is how much new stuff they added compared to the original Persona 5. There are new characters, like the charming Kasai, and new confidants to build relationships with, which in turn give you cool abilities. Plus, they added a whole new semester at the academy, which means more story, more places to explore in Tokyo, and even a new grappling hook for getting around. It’s a massive game, and you can easily sink over a hundred hours into it without even realizing it.
Here’s a quick look at some of the new additions:
- New Characters: Meet Kasai and other new faces who add a lot to the story.
- Expanded Storyline: A whole new semester and story arc to experience.
- New Locations: Explore more of Tokyo and discover hidden areas.
- Grappling Hook Mechanic: Adds a new layer to exploration and stealth.
- Thieves Den: A customizable space to show off your achievements.
It’s a truly unforgettable experience, offering a perfect journey from start to finish, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you haven’t already. You can find out more about this amazing RPG here.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
It’s hard to believe that a game released in 1998 can still hold up so well, but The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is proof that a classic is a classic for a reason. This Nintendo 3DS version isn’t just a simple port; it’s a thoughtful remake that breathes new life into a beloved adventure. The visuals got a serious facelift, with improved textures and character models that make Hyrule look better than ever. Plus, the 3D effect actually adds a nice sense of depth to the world, which is pretty cool.
One of the biggest improvements is how they handled the ocarina. In the original, you had to mess with item slots to play songs. Here, it’s right on the touchscreen, and the button prompts for each tune are right there. It makes playing those iconic melodies so much smoother. This version really feels like the definitive way to experience Link’s first big 3D adventure.
Gameplay Enhancements
- Ocarina Controls: As mentioned, the touchscreen makes playing songs a breeze.
- Visual Upgrades: Remastered graphics and textures bring Hyrule to life.
- Quality-of-Life Features: Small tweaks make the overall experience more enjoyable.
A Timeless Story
The narrative of Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf is as engaging as ever. It’s a story that’s easy to get into, even if you’re new to the Zelda series. The game does a great job of setting up the world and its characters, making the epic struggle feel really important. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone curious about the legendary Zelda franchise.
Why It Still Matters
Ocarina of Time 3D isn’t just a nostalgia trip. It’s a masterclass in game design that still influences games today. The dungeons are cleverly designed, the puzzles are satisfying, and the sense of adventure is palpable. It’s a game that respects your intelligence and rewards exploration. Even with all the new games coming out, this one remains a must-play.
4. God of War
When you think of games that really changed things up, 2018’s God of War has to be on that list. It’s not just a reboot; it’s a whole new direction for Kratos. Gone are the days of pure, unadulterated rage against the Greek gods. Now, we find him in the Norse wilds, trying to raise his son, Atreus, while dealing with his own past. The shift to a more personal story, focusing on fatherhood and legacy, is what really makes this game stand out. It’s a much more grounded experience, even with all the mythical creatures and gods running around.
The gameplay got a massive overhaul too. Instead of the fast-paced, combo-heavy combat of the older games, this one is more deliberate. Kratos uses his Leviathan Axe, which you can throw and recall, adding a cool tactical layer. It feels weighty and impactful with every swing. Plus, the camera stays right behind Kratos, making the whole experience feel more intimate and intense. It really pulls you into the action.
Here’s a quick look at some of the key features:
- A Mature Story: Explores themes of grief, parenthood, and breaking cycles of violence.
- Revamped Combat: Features the iconic Leviathan Axe with throwing and recall mechanics.
- Norse Mythology Setting: A fresh world filled with new gods, monsters, and lore.
- Character Development: Witness Kratos’s transformation and his relationship with Atreus.
It’s a game that really sticks with you, not just for its action, but for its heart. If you haven’t played it, you’re missing out on a truly special adventure. You can find out more about the game on Playstation.com.
5. Red Dead Redemption
The Wild West, Reimagined
Rockstar Games really outdid themselves with Red Dead Redemption. It dropped back in 2010 and immediately set a new standard for open-world Westerns. You play as John Marston, a former outlaw trying to leave his past behind, but as you can guess, that doesn’t go so smoothly. The game throws you into this massive, detailed world that feels truly alive. From dusty frontier towns to sprawling prairies, there’s always something to see or do.
What really makes this game stand out is its story and characters. Marston’s journey is compelling, and the supporting cast is full of memorable personalities. The gameplay itself is solid, with satisfying gunfights and a variety of activities like hunting and horseback riding. It’s a game that really lets you live in its world. If you’re looking for an immersive Western experience, this is definitely one to check out. Many consider it a masterpiece of the genre, and it’s easy to see why after spending just a few hours with it. The attention to detail in the environment and the narrative depth make it a truly special title. It’s a game that sticks with you long after you’ve finished the main story, and it’s a great example of what [Rockstar Games] can do.
Here’s a quick look at some of its highlights:
- Compelling narrative: John Marston’s personal struggle is at the heart of the game.
- Vast open world: Explore a beautifully realized turn-of-the-century American frontier.
- Engaging gameplay: Features intense shootouts, hunting, and various side activities.
- Memorable characters: Encounter a diverse cast of individuals who populate the world.
6. BioShock
Rapture’s Descent into Madness
BioShock, released in 2007, really shook things up in the first-person shooter genre. Instead of just running through levels, you’re dropped into Rapture, this underwater city that’s gone completely off the rails. It was built as this utopia, but it quickly fell apart, and now it’s filled with these creepy, genetically modified people called Splicers and these giant robot guardians called Big Daddies. The atmosphere is just incredible; it’s this mix of art deco style and total decay that makes exploring Rapture feel genuinely unsettling. You’re not just shooting; you have to use special powers called Plasmids, which let you do things like shoot lightning or set enemies on fire. It really changes how you approach combat.
Gameplay Mechanics and Player Choice
What makes BioShock stand out is how it blends shooting with these powers and environmental storytelling. You can hack security systems, upgrade your weapons with different ammo types, and, of course, use those Plasmids. The game gives you choices, especially when it comes to the Little Sisters, the young girls who collect ADAM, the stuff that powers the Plasmids. Do you harvest them for more power, or do you save them? These decisions actually affect the story’s ending, which was pretty groundbreaking for its time. It’s a game that really makes you think about the consequences of your actions.
A World Unlike Any Other
The setting of Rapture is a character in itself. The visual design is stunning, with detailed environments that really sell the idea of a once-grand city now in ruins. The audio design is also top-notch, with eerie music and voice recordings that piece together the city’s downfall. It’s a game that sticks with you long after you finish it, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered a classic. If you’re looking for a shooter with a strong story and a unique world, BioShock is definitely worth checking out. You can find it on various platforms, and it’s a great example of how video games can tell mature, thought-provoking stories. It’s a title that really set a high bar for immersive game worlds.
7. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
A New Era of Shooters
When Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare dropped back in 2007, it really changed the game for first-person shooters. It felt like a big leap forward, moving away from the World War II settings that had dominated the genre for years. The campaign was pretty intense, throwing you into all sorts of scenarios, from helicopter assaults to stealthy sniper missions. It really set a new standard for cinematic storytelling in games. The multiplayer was also a huge deal, with its progression system and perks that kept people hooked for ages. It’s easy to see why it’s still talked about today.
Here’s a quick look at what made it stand out:
- Campaign Variety: Players experienced a wide range of combat situations, including urban warfare, desert battles, and even fighting from an AC-130 gunship.
- Multiplayer Innovation: Introduced a robust perk system, killstreaks, and a create-a-class system that became a blueprint for many future online shooters.
- Technical Advancements: Featured impressive graphics for its time, with detailed environments and character models that really pulled you into the action.
It was a title that really pushed the boundaries of what a military shooter could be, and you can still find discussions about its impact on modern gaming.
8. Metroid Prime Remastered
A Blast from the Past, Reimagined
It’s pretty wild how some games just stick with you, right? Metroid Prime Remastered is definitely one of those. Originally hitting the GameCube, this first-person adventure game put players in the boots of Samus Aran, the iconic bounty hunter. The story kicks off with Samus responding to a distress call from a crashed ship near Tallon IV. Turns out, it’s a front for some seriously messed-up genetic experiments involving a substance called Phazon. Samus ends up having to chase down her old rival, Meta Ridley, all the way to the planet’s surface. From there, it’s all about exploring this alien world, figuring out its secrets, and stopping a big Phazon threat. The remaster really brings this classic to life with updated graphics and sound, making it feel fresh even today. It’s a great way to experience a game that really defined a genre, and it holds up remarkably well. If you missed it the first time around, or just want to revisit it, this is the version to play. It’s a solid entry that shows how good game design can last.
Key Features and Improvements
- Visual Overhaul: Expect sharper textures, better lighting, and overall crisper visuals that make Tallon IV look more impressive than ever.
- Modernized Controls: The remaster offers updated control schemes, including a dual-stick option, which makes Samus’s movement and aiming feel much more natural for today’s players.
- Enhanced Audio: The sound design and music have been polished, adding to the atmospheric exploration and intense combat.
- Classic Gameplay: At its core, it’s still the same beloved Metroid Prime experience, focusing on exploration, puzzle-solving, and atmospheric world-building.
Why It Stands Out
Metroid Prime Remastered is a masterclass in how to update a beloved classic. It doesn’t just slap a new coat of paint on; it thoughtfully refines the experience. The sense of isolation and discovery on Tallon IV is palpable, and the way the game slowly reveals its mysteries is incredibly satisfying. It’s a game that respects your intelligence and rewards careful observation. For anyone who appreciates atmospheric exploration and solid first-person gameplay, this is a must-play. It’s a testament to the original’s quality that it can still captivate players decades later, and this updated version makes it more accessible than ever. You can find out more about other great games on the Xbox 360 if you’re curious about gaming history.
9. Madden NFL 2004
It’s hard to believe that a game from 2003 still holds up so well, but Madden NFL 2004 really did something special. This entry really felt like a leap forward for the franchise, especially with the introduction of the Owner Mode. You could actually hire your own staff, set ticket prices, and even build your own stadium. It gave you this whole management layer that was pretty deep for its time. Plus, the new Playmaker Control let you adjust receiver routes on the fly or direct blockers during runs, which felt pretty revolutionary for making plays work. The sheer depth of the playbooks, with input from actual coaches, made it feel incredibly authentic. It was a game that really let you get into the nitty-gritty of managing and playing football. It’s no wonder it’s remembered so fondly, even compared to modern sports titles. It really set a standard for what a football simulation could be, showing how far portable gaming had come [3350].
10. Half-Life: Alyx
A New Era of VR Gaming
Valve really outdid themselves with Half-Life: Alyx. It’s not just another game; it’s a whole new way to experience gaming, built from the ground up for virtual reality. This title single-handedly shows what VR is capable of when developers truly commit to the platform. You play as Alyx Vance, and the story picks up between the events of the first two Half-Life games. The Combine are still in charge, and you’re part of the resistance, doing critical research and building tools to fight back. It’s intense, and the level of immersion is something else.
Gameplay That Pulls You In
The way you interact with the world in Alyx is just incredible. You’re not just pressing buttons; you’re actually reaching out, grabbing things, and manipulating them. Need to reload your gun? You physically grab a new clip and put it in. Trying to solve a puzzle? You’ll be twisting dials and pulling levers with your own hands. It makes everything feel so much more real.
Here’s a quick look at some of the interactions you can expect:
- Environmental Interaction: Rummage through drawers, pick up objects, and use them in creative ways. Need a distraction? Toss a bottle.
- Combat: Aim around cover, rip enemies off your face (yes, really!), and use your environment to your advantage.
- Puzzles: Manipulate tools and interfaces to progress through the story.
Why It Stands Out
What really makes Half-Life: Alyx special is how it uses VR to tell its story and create its atmosphere. The environments are detailed, and the sense of presence is uncanny. You really feel like you’re there, in City 17, fighting against the Combine. It’s a masterclass in VR design and a must-play for anyone with a VR headset. If you’re curious about the series, checking out the original Half-Life might give you some background, but Alyx is a fantastic entry point on its own. The game also shipped with tools for players to create their own environments, which has led to a ton of community-made content to explore.
Wrapping Up Our Journey Through Gaming’s Best
So, there you have it. We’ve looked at some truly amazing games that have scored incredibly high on Metacritic. It’s pretty wild to see how many different kinds of games made the cut, from epic adventures to sports sims and everything in between. These titles really show what gaming is capable of, offering experiences that stick with you long after the credits roll. It just goes to show that great game design and storytelling can really stand the test of time, earning their spots on these all-time lists. It makes you wonder what’s next and what games will be talked about in the same way years from now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are the top games determined on Metacritic?
Metacritic ranks games based on reviews from critics. The higher the score, the better the game is generally considered by reviewers. This list shows the games that have received the highest scores over time.
What makes these games so special?
The games on this list are highly praised for their gameplay, story, graphics, and overall experience. They represent games that have made a big impact and are considered classics by many players and critics.
Are these games still playable today?
Yes, many of these games are available on modern consoles or have been updated for newer systems. For example, ‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D’ is on the Nintendo 3DS, and ‘God of War’ has a newer version for PlayStation.
What kinds of games are on this list?
The list includes a variety of game types, like action-adventure games such as ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ and ‘Red Dead Redemption,’ role-playing games like ‘Persona 5 Royal,’ and first-person shooters like ‘BioShock’ and ‘Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.’
Who decides which games are the best?
This ranking is based on the scores given by professional game reviewers. It’s a way to see which games have been most consistently loved by critics.
Are there other great games that aren’t on this list?
While this list focuses on critically acclaimed titles, many other games are also very popular and well-loved by players. Metacritic also has user scores, which show what regular players think.
