19 Video Games Everyone Should Play at Least Once
Some video games are just too good to miss. These 19 must-play games span different genres and eras, but they all have one thing in common—you need to try them before you die.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
This isn’t just a game; it’s a journey. “Breath of the Wild” redefined open-world gaming with its vast landscapes, intricate puzzles, and the freedom to explore Hyrule in any way you choose. From climbing towering mountains to discovering hidden shrines, every moment feels like an adventure. The game’s stunning visuals and immersive gameplay make it a must-play for anyone who loves getting lost in a world of wonder.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with a complicated past, in this sprawling RPG that’s as much about the story as it is about the action. “The Witcher 3” offers a richly detailed world filled with morally complex decisions, unforgettable characters, and a narrative that will keep you hooked for hours on end. Whether you’re tracking down mythical beasts or navigating intricate political intrigues, this game is a masterpiece of storytelling.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar Games outdid themselves with “Red Dead Redemption 2,” a sprawling Western epic that’s as much a cinematic experience as it is a video game. The story of Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang is told with such depth and nuance that it’s easy to forget you’re playing a game. The world is incredibly detailed, offering endless activities and side quests that make this more than just a cowboy simulator—it’s an emotional journey through the dying days of the Wild West.
4. Super Mario Odyssey
Mario’s globe-trotting adventure in “Super Mario Odyssey” is pure joy in video game form. With creative level design, charming visuals, and inventive gameplay mechanics—like the ability to control enemies with your hat—this game reminds us why Mario is the king of platformers. Each world is packed with secrets, making it impossible to resist diving back in for just one more Power Moon.
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5. Dark Souls
“Dark Souls” isn’t just a game; it’s a rite of passage. Known for its brutal difficulty and unforgiving mechanics, this action RPG rewards patience, strategy, and the ability to learn from your mistakes. But it’s not all about the challenge—the game’s lore, atmospheric world, and hauntingly beautiful design make it a deeply immersive experience. Every victory feels hard-earned, and every defeat is a lesson in perseverance.
6. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
If you’ve ever wanted to lose yourself in a fantasy world, “Skyrim” is the game for you. This open-world RPG offers limitless possibilities—from slaying dragons to joining factions, crafting weapons, and mastering spells. The sheer freedom to create your own adventure is what makes “Skyrim” a landmark in gaming. Years after its release, it’s still a game that players come back to, exploring new paths and discovering new stories.
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7. Half-Life 2
“Half-Life 2” is often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, and for good reason. Its seamless blend of storytelling, physics-based puzzles, and innovative gameplay set a new standard for the first-person shooter genre. The journey of Gordon Freeman through a dystopian world ruled by the alien Combine is a masterclass in game design. Even years later, its influence can be seen in countless other games.
8. Portal 2
Who knew that a game about solving puzzles with portals could be so enthralling? “Portal 2” builds on the original’s clever mechanics with a more fleshed-out story, memorable characters, and even more mind-bending puzzles. The dark humor and sharp writing elevate the experience, making it a game that’s as funny as it is challenging. GLaDOS, the passive-aggressive AI antagonist, might just be one of the best characters in video game history.
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9. Grand Theft Auto V
“Grand Theft Auto V” is the epitome of open-world chaos. With its expansive city of Los Santos, multiple playable characters, and endless activities, it’s a game where you can do just about anything—from pulling off elaborate heists to playing tennis or going skydiving. The game’s satirical take on American culture, combined with its high-octane action, makes it an unforgettable experience. Plus, the online mode keeps the fun going long after the main story is over.
10. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Hideo Kojima’s final entry in the “Metal Gear Solid” series is a masterclass in stealth-action gameplay. “The Phantom Pain” offers an unprecedented level of freedom in how you approach missions, with a variety of tools, tactics, and options at your disposal. The game’s open-world design, combined with its complex narrative and cinematic presentation, makes it a fitting swan song for one of gaming’s most iconic franchises.
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11. BioShock
“BioShock” isn’t just a game; it’s a statement. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, this first-person shooter combines intense action with a thought-provoking narrative about free will, utopia, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The game’s atmosphere is unmatched, with its Art Deco design and eerie setting contributing to an unforgettable experience. The twist ending is still talked about as one of the best in gaming history.
12. The Last of Us
Prepare to have your emotions put through the wringer with “The Last of Us.” This post-apocalyptic action-adventure game tells the story of Joel and Ellie as they navigate a world devastated by a fungal infection. The game’s storytelling is second to none, with deep character development and a plot that explores themes of survival, loss, and what it means to be human. It’s a game that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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13. Mass Effect 2
“Mass Effect 2” is the pinnacle of sci-fi RPGs. The game’s blend of character-driven storytelling, action-packed combat, and player-driven choices make it a standout in the genre. The relationships you build with your crew and the decisions you make have far-reaching consequences, creating a personalized narrative that feels truly epic. The loyalty missions alone are worth the price of admission, each one offering unique insights into your team members.
14. Minecraft
What started as a simple block-building game has become a cultural phenomenon. “Minecraft” offers unparalleled creativity, allowing players to build anything from simple homes to entire cities. Its survival mode adds a layer of challenge, as you fend off monsters and gather resources. Whether you’re crafting intricate structures or exploring the vast, randomly generated world, “Minecraft” is a game that’s limited only by your imagination.
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15. Tetris
“Tetris” might be simple, but it’s also one of the most addictive and enduring games ever created. The premise—fit falling blocks into complete lines—sounds easy, but the increasing speed and complexity make it a challenge that’s hard to put down. It’s a game that appeals to everyone, from casual players to hardcore gamers, and its legacy can be seen in countless puzzle games that have followed.
16. Shadow of the Colossus
“Shadow of the Colossus” is a game that’s as much about what it doesn’t show as what it does. You play as Wander, a lone warrior tasked with bringing down towering giants in a desolate world. The game’s minimalist storytelling and hauntingly beautiful landscapes create an atmosphere that’s both epic and intimate. Each battle against the colossi feels monumental, and the game’s ending will leave you with more questions than answers—in the best way possible.
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17. Super Metroid
“Super Metroid” is a perfect example of how to design a game that’s both challenging and rewarding. This side-scrolling action-adventure game set the standard for exploration-based gameplay, inspiring an entire genre known as “Metroidvania.” As bounty hunter Samus Aran, you’ll navigate a labyrinthine alien world, uncovering secrets and upgrading your abilities to reach new areas. The sense of discovery and the tight, responsive controls make this a game that’s as fun to play today as it was when it first released.
18. Final Fantasy VII
“Final Fantasy VII” is a landmark title in the RPG genre, known for its engaging story, memorable characters, and revolutionary 3D graphics (for its time). The game follows Cloud Strife and his companions as they battle against the evil Shinra Corporation and the enigmatic Sephiroth. The game’s emotional depth, combined with its epic scale, makes it a must-play for any RPG fan. The game’s iconic moments, like the death of a beloved character, have become part of gaming legend.
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19. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, “Ocarina of Time” is a masterpiece that blends action, puzzle-solving, and exploration. As Link, you’ll journey through a beautifully crafted world, battling enemies, solving intricate puzzles, and exploring dungeons. The game’s innovative use of time travel, its memorable music, and its engaging story have made it a timeless classic. It’s a game that defined a generation and continues to influence the design of modern video games.
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