Top 100 Video Games Of All Time

70 – 61: Must-Play Modern and Retro Classics

70. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (2002)

• A unique cel-shaded art style that still looks stunning today.
• Expansive, open-sea exploration that captures a true sense of adventure.
• One of the most heartfelt and personal Zelda stories.
• Refined combat and innovative sailing mechanics.
• Initially divisive, but later praised as one of the greatest Zelda games.

69. Silent Hill 2 (2001)

• One of the best psychological horror games ever made.
• A deeply emotional and disturbing narrative about guilt and grief.
• The eerie, oppressive atmosphere makes it one of gaming’s scariest experiences.
• Unforgettable enemies like Pyramid Head.
• A masterclass in horror game design.

68. Pokémon Red/Blue (1998)

• The games that started a global phenomenon.
• Iconic 151 Pokémon that remains beloved to this day.
• The perfect blend of strategy, exploration, and collection.
• Simple yet deep turn-based combat that remains a staple in gaming.
• Established Pokémon as one of the most successful franchises in history.

67. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 – Yuri’s Revenge (2000)

• One of the best RTS expansions ever, introducing new units and factions.
• Highly strategic gameplay with a perfect balance of offense and defense.
• A fun, campy story with over-the-top characters and alternate history elements.
• Classic base-building mechanics that define the genre.
• Fantastic multiplayer that kept fans engaged for years.

66. Shadow Hearts: Covenant (2004)

• A deeply emotional and dark RPG with a unique alternate-history setting.
• The Judgment Ring system added an interactive element to turn-based combat.
• One of the most compelling and tragic love stories in RPG history.
• A balance of horror, humor, and serious storytelling, making it a standout in the genre.
• Memorable cast, including Yuri, one of the most well-developed RPG protagonists ever.

65. Doom (1993)

• Defined the FPS genre and set the stage for all shooters to come.
• Fast, fluid gameplay that remains addictive to this day.
• A legendary soundtrack that adds to the adrenaline-fueled action.
• Modding and community support keep it alive decades later.
• One of the most influential games in history.

64. Diablo II (2000)

• The gold standard for action RPGs, with addictive loot-based gameplay.
• Endless replayability through randomized dungeons and deep character builds.
• One of the most satisfying progression systems in gaming.
• Multiplayer and co-op gameplay that remains fun decades later.
• Influenced countless modern action RPGs.

63. Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988)

• One of the most influential platformers of all time.
• Introduced the world map, new power-ups like the Tanooki Suit, and diverse level designs.
• A perfect balance of challenge and accessibility.
• Defined Mario’s platforming gameplay for decades.
• A timeless classic that still plays great today.

62. Portal 2 (2011)

• Perfectly refined puzzle mechanics using the portal gun.
• One of the funniest and most well-written games in history.
• Memorable characters like GLaDOS, Wheatley, and Cave Johnson.
• Cooperative multiplayer mode that enhances the puzzle experience.
• A masterclass in pacing, storytelling, and gameplay innovation.

61. Pokémon Crystal (2000)

• First Pokemon game to introduce animated sprites, making battles feel more dynamic.
• Allowed players to choose a female trainer for the first time.
• Improved story elements over Gold/Silver, including a deeper Suicune subplot.
• The best version of the beloved Gen 2 Pokemon era.
• Introduced the Battle Tower, adding a new challenge for experienced players.